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3 new Mary Berry recipes to make this autumn

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MARY BERRY

Mary Berry turned 90 this year and to celebrate, she has released a new cookbook, Mary 90 – aiming to give home cooks a ‘career-spanning’ collection of fuss-free recipes for many different occasions.

It accompanies a new BBC TV series, Mary at 90: A Lifetime of Cooking.

The TV chef shares a mixture of brand-new recipes and her nostalgic classics, with Berry saying it has been a “sheer joy” to write, and includes the baking she’s so known for, alongside tasty, easy mid-week meals and crowd pleasers.

Fragrant chicken traybake

Mary Berry

“An all-in-one dish, this delicious, aromatic chicken recipe is vibrant and full of flavour,” says Berry. “Serve with rice or a dressed salad.”

Ingredients:

(Serves 4–6)

1 large aubergine, sliced into half-moons

2 peppers, deseeded and sliced into large pieces

1 large onion, sliced

3tbsp sunflower oil

3 dried lime leaves

1 large stick of lemongrass, bashed

3 large chicken breast fillets, each sliced in half

2tbsp sweet chilli sauce

150g baby spinach leaves

Small bunch of Thai basil, chopped

For the fragrant sauce:

1 x 400ml can coconut milk

2tbsp Thai red curry paste

2 garlic cloves, crushed

2tsp freshly grated ginger

Juice of 1 lime

2tsp fish sauce

2tbsp sweet chilli sauce

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C Fan/Gas 7.

2. To make the sauce, mix all the ingredients together in a bowl.

3. Scatter the aubergine, peppers and onion into a large shallow roasting tin. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of the oil and toss everything together. Pour over half of the sauce. Add the lime leaves and lemongrass to the tin and roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.

4. Toss the chicken in the remaining oil and the sweet chilli sauce, and season well. Place a large frying pan over a high heat until very hot. Add the chicken and brown very quickly until sealed and golden, stirring constantly.

5. Remove the roasting tin from the oven and pour over the remaining sauce. Place the chicken on top and return to the oven for about 15 minutes, or until cooked through.

6. Transfer the chicken onto a plate. Stir the spinach and Thai basil into the sauce and vegetables in the tin and gently warm over the hob until the spinach has wilted.

7. Serve the chicken traybake with rice.

Best made and served. Not suitable for freezing.

Skate wing with caper sauce and samphire

Mary Berry

“Hugely popular, skate wings are readily available and simple to cook. The sauce makes the dish extra special. Buy samphire from the fish counter in the supermarket or farm shop,” says Berry.

Ingredients:

(Serves 4)

4 x 400g skate wings, edges trimmed with scissors

100g butter, softened, plus a knob

Juice of ½ lemon

4tbsp capers

4tbsp finely chopped parsley

400g fresh samphire

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C Fan/Gas 6.

2. Lie the skate wings on a board and use half the butter to spread over both sides of the skate wings. Season well with salt and ground black pepper.

3. Heat a large frying pan over a high heat. When hot, brown the wings in batches for 2 minutes on each side until golden.

4. Place the browned wings in a large roasting tin and transfer to the preheated oven. Roast for about 15 minutes until cooked through (the translucent flesh will become opaque when it is done). To test for doneness, try to pull the flesh away carefully from the bones with a sharp knife – if it comes away easily, it is done. Place on a large platter and cover with foil. Leave to rest in a warm place.

4. Add the remaining butter to the frying pan and heat until nutty brown in colour. Add the lemon juice, capers and parsley and remove from the heat.

5. Meanwhile, cook the samphire in a large frying pan with a knob of butter and a splash of water over a high heat. Fry for a few minutes to heat through.

6. Divide the samphire between the plates and top each one with a skate wing. Pour over the caper butter sauce to serve.

Best made and served. Not suitable for freezing.

Carrot cake with frosting

Mary Berry

“A carrot cake is so popular, especially in coffee shops and bakeries,” says Berry. “My version includes my favourite spices. Carrot cake originated in the USA where they make cakes with oil, rather than our butter-based sponges. Use a flavourless oil, such as sunflower or vegetable.”

Ingredients:

(Serves 8–10)

4 large eggs

175g caster sugar

75g light muscovado sugar

250ml sunflower oil, plus extra for greasing

1tsp vanilla extract

2 ripe bananas, mashed

150g carrots, peeled and coarsely grated

275g self-raising flour

2tsp baking powder

1tsp ground cinnamon

1tsp ground ginger

½tsp mixed spice

55g walnuts or pecans, finely chopped, plus a few extra for decoration

For the cream cheese frosting:

250g butter, softened

2tsp vanilla extract

350g icing sugar

350g full-fat cream cheese

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C Fan/Gas 4. Grease and line the bases of 2 x 20cm (8in) loose-bottomed sandwich tins.

2. Break the eggs into a large bowl and beat with a fork to break up. Add the caster and muscovado sugar, oil and vanilla and mix well.

3. Add the remaining ingredients to the bowl and whisk using an electric hand whisk until just combined. Be careful not to over beat.

4. Divide the mixture between the two prepared tins and level the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35–40 minutes until well risen and lightly golden. Leave to cool in the tins for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

5. Meanwhile, make the frosting. Measure the butter, vanilla and icing sugar into a large bowl and whisk using an electric hand whisk until combined. Add the cream cheese and beat until creamy and light.

6. Peel the paper from the bases of the sponges and invert one onto a plate. Spread with frosting. Place the other cake on top and use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides, leaving a pretty swirl on top. Decorate with walnuts or pecans to serve.

Can be made and assembled up to 8 hours ahead. Freezes well but best to ice on the day.

Mary Berry

Mary 90 – My Very Best Recipes by Mary Berry is published in hardback by BBC Books, priced £28. Photography by Tara Fisher. Available now

7 things to consider when downsizing later in life

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Don’t rush into a decision and make sure you do your research. As we get older, it’s common to start rethinking where and how we live – and for many, that means considering a move to a smaller, more manageable home.

Age UK’s recent Late Movers report highlights some of the challenges older adults face when it comes to housing. A survey carried out by Opinium on behalf of Age UK in January 2025 of 2,500 people aged 66 and over, found that 36% worried about affordability, 42% about accessibility, and 35% about the condition of their home.

In addition, 72% of respondents aged between 66 and 74 said moving after the age of 75 would be difficult.

The charity warns that unsuitable housing in later life can place extra pressure on health and social care services – making early planning all the more important.

If you’re starting to think about your last big move, here are seven key things to consider when downsizing or relocating later in life…

1. Proximity to friends and family

“I often see couples moving down to Cornwall and becoming very isolated because they don’t really consider how far they are going to be from everyone,” says Cornwall-based estate agent Michael Kleinman. “They are often used to seeing their grandchildren every weekend and when they move to Cornwall, they only see them for a couple of weeks in the school holidays.

“So, it tends to be a much easier move if you stay local and have that familiarity and social network around you.”

However, if you are still keen to relocate, the estate agent highly recommends looking into the transport links of your potential new area.

“Think about transport links to and from where your family and your network are,” advises Kleinman. “If you move to a rural area, you might be 20 miles from a railway station and driving might be no longer an option.”

2. Emotional impact

Paperwork might seem like the hardest part about relocating, but many people underestimate the emotional toll downsizing can have.

“I think a lot of people don’t really consider the emotional side of moving from the family home where they have brought up all the kids,” says Kleinman. “Going from a four/five bedroom house down to a bungalow means all those years of accumulating stuff has to be condensed down and a lot of people don’t really think about the ramifications of the emotional side and the logistical difficulties of what goes and what stays.

“You have to be very brutal and ruthless about it and that’s often easier said than done. A lot of downsizers start the process and then give up and stay where they are for another year or two because they didn’t realise how hard it was going to be mentally and emotionally.”

3. Logistics

“Another thing that many people don’t consider is how different moving house is now, compared to 40/50 years ago with things like EPCs (Energy Performance Certificates) and online ID checks,” says Kleinman. “The process can be very overwhelming if you aren’t overly tech savvy. People often start the process and get a few weeks or months into it and then find it overwhelming, so take their house off the market and have a rethink.”

Finding a good real estate agent who has the time to sit, listen and guide you through this can help make it less daunting.

“Work with an independent local estate agent and someone who can actually come around to your house and go through it with you,” advises Kleinman.

4. Location

Make sure you do your research before making a commitment to a new location.

“If you are thinking about moving to a different area, talk to local people in person or on social media groups to really get an understanding of that area,” recommends Kleinman. “I am often dealing with clients who are moving to an area where they don’t know anyone, have never been there before or have only been there once or twice on holiday.

“Cornwall, for example, is very different in the winter compared to the summer. If you have been on holiday there in July or August, you will get a very different experience in January. So, it’s important to do your research to see what it’s actually like to live there all-year round.”

5. Convenience of health services and local amenities

Think carefully about what type of amenities and local services are going to be crucial to you as you grow older.

“Think realistically about how far away the nearest inpatient hospital facilities are, how near the local GP and NHS dentists are and find out if they are taking on any new patients,” advises Kleinman. “Also, think about how easy or difficult it is to get to those services, as well as the normal town-centre facilities that you might need.”

6. Accessibility

Make sure your new home is going to be adaptable and functional for future you.

“Bungalows and apartments are the normal go-to and I think it’s particularly good to look for very new bungalows,” says Kleinman. “The reason being is that building regulations now have to follow rules set out by the Disability Discrimination Act, so many new bungalows have to have things like wheelchair access, wider doorways and plug sockets higher up the wall – features you won’t get in most Seventies bungalows.”

7. Maintenance

“None of us knows what’s around the corner and how long we’re going to be mobile for, so you really need to think about practical living,” says Kleinman. “Do you want a large garden? Is it going to be practical and manageable? When does the boiler need replacing? Will the house need frequent external painting?

“I would always guide clients towards a more modern property that is low maintenance. Lots of people think about how they are today, rather than what it is going to be like for them in 10/20 years’ time.”

7 of the best ways to adapt your home for multigenerational living

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Multigenerational living is on the rise – Lisa Salmon asks experts about the best way to adapt a home so all family members can live happily together.

Multigenerational living is on the rise – although by how much depends on which research you choose.

A new study by homelifts specialist Uplifts found 49% of 2,000 UK adults questioned lived in households spanning multiple generations, and more than a third (34%) of these households had made changes to better accommodate all the generations of their family.

However, the Centre for Ageing Better points out that in the most recent Census, in 2021, just 2.1% of households in England and Wales were multigenerational, an increase from 1.8% in 2011.

But whatever the true figure, academics believe households that span multiple generations are definitely an increasing trend. Prabash Edirisingha, a consumer researcher at Northumbria University who studies family consumption patterns across generations, says: “My research into multi-generational households reveals they are now the fastest-growing household type in England and Wales.

“While the emotional and economic advantages are undeniable, families must remain realistic about the challenges. Different generations often bring diverse expectations, lifestyles and values into shared spaces – differences that can lead to tension if not thoughtfully managed.”

While the increase in multigenerational living is, in part, due to financial necessity, with many young people unable to afford to buy their own homes and their grandparents not wanting to spend their savings on care home costs, the Uplifts research found there are other reasons for the increase too.

Although saving money was a key advantage for 39% of those questioned, more than half (55%) cited stronger family bonds as the primary benefit.

Kate Sheehan, an occupational therapist specialising in housing adaptations, stresses that the key to successful multigenerational living is not only taking what each member of the family wants and needs into consideration, but also being aware of how those needs might change over time.

“Achieving positive and harmonious multigenerational living begins with understanding the unique needs of each family member, anticipating future changes, and responding with both functional and attractive design solutions,” she says. “It’s essential that everyone in the household can access all areas of the property, ensuring it truly feels like home for all.”

Millie Brown, deputy director for homes at the Centre for Ageing Better, explains that only one in eight homes in this country currently has all four key accessibility features for elderly family members: namely a ground-floor toilet, sufficiently wide doorways, circulation space for a wheelchair, and no steps at the front door.

“Multigenerational living, and supporting older people to age in place, can be hugely beneficial to families and can help to reduce pressures on social care,” she says.

“But many families will find a key barrier to establishing these arrangements is the unsuitability of their own home for older people.”

She also points out that financial support for homeowners who want to adapt their homes for multigenerational living has declined substantially in recent years.

“The other barrier many people are likely to find in creating a multigenerational home is the support on offer to make improvements and adaptations,” she says. “Grants for home improvement support have shrunk by more than £2 billion over the last decade, and the range of support available to people is variable from one place to another.

“We need a network of good home hubs – local one-stop shops offering comprehensive advice and support on all aspects of home improvement.”

Finances permitting, Sheehan says the most common and most necessary adaptations for a multigenerational home are…

1. Wider doorways

If a family member needs a wheelchair, widening doorways will make life at home much easier.

“Installing wider doorways markedly improves movement throughout the house, not only for accessibility, but also for practical tasks like moving furniture,” says Sheehan. “Such thoughtful choices enhance comfort and convenience for everyone.”

2. Good lighting

While younger members of the family might prefer more subdued lighting, particularly when they’re entertaining friends, brighter lighting is a necessity for older relatives whose eyesight may be failing, so bright lights with a dimmer switch, or plenty of lamps that can make a room brighter, may work for everyone.

“Proper lighting is crucial, especially in spaces like staircases and bathrooms, where slips and trips are common hazards for both young and old,” points out Sheehan.

3. Downstairs bedrooms

The Uplifts research found 28% of families questioned had added ground-floor bedrooms to their home for an elderly relative. But such a modification goes hand-in-hand with adding a downstairs toilet if the home doesn’t already have one.

4. Separate living rooms

Nearly a third (32%) of the multigenerational householders surveyed had created separate living areas in their homes – modifications that provide privacy and independence for both young and old, if space allows it.

“In a multigenerational household, personal space is crucial for individual comfort and overall harmony,” Sheehan explains. “Even when space is limited, providing a dedicated area, such as a chair in a bedroom, can greatly enhance the household’s ability to coexist successfully.”

5. New bathroom/bathroom adjustments

The Uplifts research found one of the most common adaptations was a new bathroom, which was added by 32% of multigenerational households. But if a whole new bathroom is too expensive, Sheehan suggests installing a wetroom-style shower in your existing bathroom, and reinforcing walls to enable future fitting of grab rails (which 22% of the survey respondents said they’d installed), or a wall-mounted shower seat.

She says: “Whenever possible, fit the bathroom door to open outwards – this small adjustment can make a significant difference in an emergency, providing swift access if assistance is needed.”

6. Adding a lift

Because elderly family members may struggle with stairs, adding either a stairlift or a home lift is the ultimate accessibility feature, added by 15% of the multigenerational homeowners surveyed.

“Stairs can become challenging with age, whether due to physical limitations or simply fatigue from an active daily routine,” comments Sheehan. “Installing a homelift or stairlift can greatly ease movement between floors. And these solutions aren’t just for older adults – a lift can be invaluable for gently transporting a sleeping child upstairs without disturbance, demonstrating how inclusive design supports the needs of every generation.”

7. Kitchen modifications

Older people with mobility/balance issues may struggle to stand while cooking, so consider installing a lower worktop to allow them to sit and help with food preparation, says Sheehan, who also suggests fitting an instant hot tap. “This will reduce the need to lift and carry hot water – not only is it quicker, it’s more energy-efficient.”

Due To The Rental Market Soon

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Rental preview Hill Front view

This is a preview of a wonderful country house on the outskirts of Hartley Wintney.

The property is due to the market soon at an anticipated guide of £4,000 p.c.m. rental (plus additional fees).

The views from the rear of the property are fantastic as you can see from our preview video.

The location is highly sought after and we recommend an early viewing, so please telephone out lettings team on 01252 622550.

Estimated rental guide £4,000 p.c.m. and additional fees will apply including holding deposit £923 and 
security deposit £4615

This is a substantial detached period home with a wealth of character offering flexible accommodation and far reaching views of surrounding countryside

The gated entrance leads to a gravelled driveway offering ample parking and access to 2 garages (please note the 3rd garage and annexe above are not included in any tenancy)

The entry hall offers a good size coat/boot cupboard and leads into a formal entry area/sitting room with wood burning stove. This leads to a further sitting room with feature fire and French doors overlooking the gardens.

There are wooden steps leading to a study area and the eat in country style kitchen is found beyond and offers an oil fuelled range stove, gas hob, electric oven and under counter fridge.  There is also access to a cellar.

To the rear of the kitchen there is a utility room with space for a washing machine, tumble dryer and fridge/freezer. Beyond this there is a shower room and good size family room with door to the rear patio and gardens.

Upstairs the property benefits from 4 good sized bedrooms and has been re-carpeted. Bedroom 2 benefits from an en-suite shower room, fitted wardrobes and access to the main bedroom. There is also a family bathroom with shower over the bath.

Outside there are formal gardens to the side and rear, offering views as they slope down towards adjacent fields. 

McCarthy Holden rental preview
McCarthy Holden rental preview

The property is unfurnished and available now. 

Energy Efficiency rating –  E  /Council tax Band –  G  / Tenancy Length – 12 months

ADDITIONAL CHARGES

Security deposit – £4,615.00 (5 weeks rent), Holding deposit – £923.00 (equivalent to 1 weeks rent – Holding deposit deducted from 1st months’ rent due on successful completion of a tenancy, but non-refundable should a Tenant withhold/provide misleading information that may affect their application, or if they withdraw)

Further Tenant fee information available on; mccarthyholden.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Tenant-fees-new-tenancies.pdf

McCarthy Holden is a member of the Propertymark client money protection scheme, and also a member of The Property Ombudsman which is a redress scheme.

 

TELEPHONE 01252 622550 TO ARRANGE A VIEWING.

The rise of soft elegance and how to update your bathroom scheme

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Made to relax and unwind in… think mini spa treatments with indulgent body ranges and a place to pamper, our bathrooms have become a haven for wellbeing.

Especially with our desire to escape the stresses of everyday life, investing in a little self-care, and creating the most calming environment with a luxe aesthetic is very of the moment.

And this is where the allure of soft elegance comes in, bringing your bathroom bang-up-to-date, and more characterful and charming than a minimalist approach which can sometimes feel clinical and harsh.

“Soft elegance focuses on creating spaces that feel inviting yet sophisticated, offering a softer lens through which to view minimalism,” explains Emma Freeman, brand and communications manager for Hansgrohe UK.

“It’s not about being showy or ornate, but rather subtle, luxurious, and warm – an ideal ambience for a bathroom that will help you end your day in a calmer way.”

Header photo: Blush Pink Bathroom. Visit Hansgrohe to find your nearest showroom partner. Hansgrohe/PA.

The Fine Cotton Company/PA.

Start with colour

Soft elegance bathrooms are about serenity over statement, highlights Freeman. “They’re designed to make you feel relaxed and refreshed, using tactile materials, subdued colour schemes, and quietly luxurious finishes.

“This is where spa meets minimalism… soft elegance creates an aura that’s calm and space-enhancing, ideal when you want a bathroom that embraces overall wellness.”

What’s great about this trend is it can work just as well in large bathrooms, as it can in cloakrooms and en suites, says Freeman.

“The cornerstone of soft elegance is a calming colour palette. Muted tones like soft whites, creams, pale greys, blush pinks, and gentle blues all create a serene backdrop that promotes relaxation.”

She continues: “Avoid harsh, bright colours that can feel jarring. Soft colours create a more spacious feel and provide a backdrop for soft textures and shapes.”

Tone-on-tone layering with subtle shade contrast can also add depth without being too overstated, suggests Freeman. “To incorporate a little more personality, you could also use muted pastels as accents, such as lavender or a dusty blue.”

Lighting is important here too, she says. “Choose warm-toned LED bulbs that mimic natural light to create that cosy atmosphere, which is so key to the soft elegance trend.”

Wet-wall Tile Collection in Blush - Bathroom Wall Panels - Wetwall/PA.

Thoughtful design choices

Under-consumption has been creeping into our vocabulary for some time now, notes Freeman, and says the ‘less is more’ philosophy is central to the soft elegance aesthetic.

She encourages a thoughtful approach to incorporating different elements that support a sense of wellness and quiet sophistication.

“Minimalism is key to this trend, but it has to be done in a softer, more organic way rather than traditional minimalism which is more sterile.”

Think about tapping into minimalism by clearing away countertop clutter and opting for hidden storage, suggests Freeman. She also advises keeping the floor space uncluttered: “Floating vanity units and ceramics that are wall-hung are a great way to lean into soft elegance.”

You want every element to feel intentional, but never excessive, she explains. “For example, bathroom furniture with a handless design, as well as soft colours in matt finishes like sandy beige and natural oak fit well into this trend.

“Internal drawer separators for your bathroom furniture keep countertops clutter free and organised. While frosted or fluted glass screens, used to zone off a shower or toilet, add just enough privacy while enhancing the room’s overall sense of calm,” she adds.

To embrace soft elegance, she says to think about incorporating natural materials that will add to the serenity. “Natural stone or marble with gentle veining, will create a timeless, organic feel,” suggests Freeman.

“You can add warmth with wood accents in light oak or walnut, and opt for matt finishes on tiles and taps to create a grounded, understated aesthetic.

“Soft textiles, such as waffle-weave towels, linen shower curtains and plush bathmats will complete the look, adding layers of comfort and texture.”

Good-Home Kentia Bathroom Furni-ture - GoodHome/PA.

Sustainably sculpted

Other elements to consider are the smaller, finer details, such as accessories, showers and taps…

“Incorporating brassware with gentle curves and smooth, rounded edges brings a sense of grace and flow to your space,” suggests Freeman. “Every detail matters, from the shower head to the drain, to create a cohesive and thoughtful design that feels as good as it looks.”

She advises opting for fixtures in finishes like brushed bronze or nickel, polished gold, and chrome, to complement muted colour palettes and soft textiles.

“When it comes to taps, steer clear of harsh, boxy designs,” underlines Freeman. “Instead, choose cylindrical taps with flowing spouts and tactile handles that exude quiet luxury.”

She says this approach isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space that nurtures long-term wellness for both the environment and those who inhabit it. “Think wall-mounted taps above oval basins, or mirrored shapes that echo across the room, creating a harmonious balance.

“For the shower, subtlety is key… select designs where nozzles are discreet, allowing water to cascade as if emerging from a cloud. A matt spray disc adds an understated sophistication, perfectly embodying this trend’s ethos of refined simplicity.”

AXOR One 3-Hole Basin Mixer Tap - AXOR/PA.

A wellness space

“The soft elegance trend transcends fleeting fashion,” highlights Freeman. “It’s a lifestyle choice that celebrates sensual shapes, sustainable materials, and the enduring beauty of thoughtful design.”

“Aligning with the broader movement toward wellness and sustainability, soft elegance certainly has longevity – and likely to evolve towards the use of eco-friendly materials and modular furniture in years to come,” adds Freeman.

Editorial By Sam Wylie-Harris, PA

Emma Freeman - Hansgrohe/PA.

How to fast-track your home extension

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If you’re in your forever home, planning your dream extension for indoor outdoor living, or considering a loft conversion, this could be the perfect time to make it happen.

Thanks to recent changes to planning rules, many homeowners can now extend their homes more quickly – often without needing full planning permission at all.

These updates to permitted development rights (or PD rights) make it simpler to carry out common improvements, says Simon Rix, planning expert for the Homebuilding & Renovation Show and director of Planix.UK Planning Consultants, provided you follow a few key rules.

To put you on the front foot, Rix explains what you need to know – and how to avoid common pitfalls which can slow things down…

What’s changed in the planning system?

In recent years, the government has gradually expanded what’s allowed under permitted development, outlines Rix. “This means you can carry out certain types of building work without needing full planning permission – cutting down on paperwork, delays, and thus costs.”

Key recent changes include…

“More generous size limits for single-storey rear extensions – up to six metres for a semi-detached home or eight metres for detached, under the neighbour consultation scheme,” explains Rix.

“Loft conversions with rear dormers are now allowed in most cases, up to 40 cubic metres for terraced houses or 50 cubic metres for detached/semi-detached homes.

“Outbuildings and garden rooms, such as offices or gyms, can be built without planning if they meet height and use restrictions.”

He says side extensions are also allowed in many cases, as long as they’re single-storey and modest in scale.

However, not every home qualifies. “If your property is listed, in a conservation area, or subject to past restrictions, permitted development may not apply,” Rix warns.

What you can do without full permission

If your home benefits from permitted development rights, you may be able to do the following…

“Build a single-storey rear extension of up to three metres deep (four metres for detached homes) under standard PD, or up to six to eight metres under the larger extension scheme,” he explains.

“Convert your loft into a bedroom or home office, including dormer windows to the rear roof slope.

“Add a garden room or office, as long as it’s single-storey, used for incidental purposes (not a separate residence), and doesn’t take up more than half your garden.”

Rix continues: “Create a side extension that’s single-storey and no more than half the width of the original house.”

As he points out, all of this must be done within certain height, volume, and boundary rules. “So it’s still important to double-check the technical details before you start building.”

 

How to fast-track your project

Even though you may not need full planning permission, it’s still essential to follow the correct process to keep things smooth…

Confirm your PD rights: “Check whether any previous planning permissions or local restrictions remove your rights to extend under PD,” advises Rix. “This can be done via your local council’s planning portal or with professional help.”

Submit a lawful development certificate (LDC): “This isn’t mandatory, but it’s strongly recommended,” underlines Rix. “It’s a formal confirmation that your plans meet PD rules, and it’s useful when selling your home or dealing with mortgage lenders.”

Use the neighbour consultation scheme: “For rear extensions that exceed three metres (terraced/semi) or four metres (detached), you’ll need to notify neighbours and submit basic plans for prior approval,” says Rix. “This is quicker than full planning, and handled by the council in 42 days if there are no objections.”

Get the measurements right: “A few centimetres over the limit can mean your build doesn’t qualify,” he warns. “Work from accurate plans and, if possible, get a professional to check everything before you begin.”

Consider the build itself: “Even if planning is easier, you’ll still need to comply with building regulations,” explains Rix. “That means proper insulation, fire safety, structural checks, and potentially drainage and ventilation considerations.”

Less red tape, but still rules

The recent changes to PD rights make home extensions more accessible than ever, highlights Rix, but says that doesn’t mean anything goes…

“You still need to work within clear rules, and mistakes can be costly.

“The good news? With a bit of planning upfront, you can avoid unnecessary delays and unlock valuable new space at home,” says Rix. Whether that’s for family life, working from home, or just more room to breathe.”

For more info visit homebuildingshow.co.uk

Simon Rix Planix.UK Planning Consultants Ltd/PA.

Talk To An Estate Agent

If you are planning an extension and your purchased your property form McCarthy Holden, why not talk to them about your extension / improvement ideas and they will give you insights into what works and any potential enhanced property value.

10 ways to elevate your outdoor entertaining

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Perfect your patio, terrace or garden with fashionable furnishings and serveware, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

With gorgeous weather putting the spotlight on indoor-outdoor living, throwing open the doors and prepping for summer soirées has lasting appeal, thanks to this slew of sun-kissed days.

So much so, if you’re spending a good chunk of your time in the garden, chilling out in the sunshine, barbecuing and entertaining family or friends, there’s always room for some stylish upgrades when you enjoy dining in the open air…

1. Wine Glasses – Green Pressed Goblets, £7.99 each, Glass Carafe – Green Pressed, £24.99, rest of items from a selection, Gisela Graham

We all love to drink with our eyes, and these cool green glasses will make your white wine spritzer taste even fresher.

2. VonShef 16-Piece Leaf Print Melamine Dinner Set, £22.99, VonHaus

With a pretty palm leaf print, this melamine dinner set has green leafy salads, exotic fruit plates and smoothies written all over it. Includes four dinner plates, side plates, bowls, and tumblers.

3. Mesh 4 Seat Outdoor Dining Set with Parasol, £249.50 (was £499), Dobbies Garden Centres

With summer parasols at a premium, this outdoor dining set should be snapped up. Featuring a round table and four chairs, the canopy will shade you from the sun and is tailor-made for a patio or big balcony.

4. Meadow Tablecloth, (100cm x 100cm), from £21, Walton & Co

If you’re setting the stage for a summery cottagecore tablescape or complimenting a cottage-style garden, this cotton tablecloth with whimsy illustrations ticks all the right boxes.

5. Morso Grill 71 Table Outdoor Barbecue, £249, Direct Stoves

Depending on the size of your space, this portable grill makes a great centrepiece for chicken, veggie or seafood skewers – choose wood or charcoal. Made from enamelled cast iron to distribute and retain heat, it’s quick and easy to clean too.

6. Walnut Wood Fork And Spoon Set, £14; Walnut Wood Rectangle Trays, from £14 (Small), Bohemia Design Ltd

Rustic table settings with love this eco-friendly cutlery; crafted in Morocco from sustainable walnut wood, the trays compliment the range – and right on point for serving stuffed peppers or antipasti.

7. GoodHome Powell Black 4 Burner Gas BBQ, £200, Diy.com

If the thrill of the grill has passed you by, or your existing BBQ needs replacing, this keenly priced model should encourage the sizzling sound of burgers. Well-suited to smaller patio spaces, it’s easy to wheel around and electronic ignition system means no faffing around with lighters.

8. Marrakesh Olive Collection: Olive Green Side Plate, £14; Olive Green Dinner Plate, £19.50; rest of items from a selection, Rose & Grey

These pretty, floral plates have a boho vibe and can be mixed with old and new. Perfectly placed for avocado salads, houmous or dips… and terracotta tablescape.

9. Leros Woven Outdoor Seating Set, £2,345, Ruma

For the look and feel of luxe, stylish outdoor sofas with comfy cushions and co-ordinating armchairs set the scene for garden parties or resting and reading… depending on your social calendar. With rope weave detailing and modern design, this set includes a sofa, two armchairs, season-proof cushions, small and large coffee tables.

10. Porto Lantern Duo with TruGlow Candles, £59.99 (Set of 2), rest of items from a selection, Lights4fun

When dusk falls, lighting can be make or break for an ambient scheme. With a matte black metal frame and flickering ivory flame, these LEDs will brighten those forgotten corners or cosy, conversation areas.

8 ways to weave summer blooms into your space

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McCarthy Holden Summer Blooms

A beautiful bouquet is one of life’s pleasures… and embellishing your home with florals, botanicals and ditsy prints is an imaginary way to reinvent your existing scheme.

Whether it’s through soft furnishings, romantic accents or pretty pottery, think a timeless, mood-enhancing aesthetic inspired by a secret garden… without the need for a patch of green grass.

To get the look, these hand-picked bouquets are ready to mix and match…

1. Emma Bridgewater Garden Flowers French Bowl, £24; Garden Flowers Half Pint Mug, £25, Emma Bridgewater

With a country cottage vibe, these brilliant blooms will bring colour, texture and panache to tea parties.

McCarthy Holden Summer Blooms

2. Laura Ashley 2.8L Stovetop Kettle China Rose, £59.99, Boots

With a delightful whistling sound and designer print finish, this stovetop kettle combines function with flair.

McCarthy Holden Summer Blooms

3. Botanist’s Scroll Vivant Wallpaper, £95 per roll; Trellia Orange Wallpaper, £95 per roll, Graham & Brown

A flowery feature wall in vibrant shades of pink, purple, fuchsia and orange has dopamine décor written all over it – and is an appealing vista with character and charm. For a cohesive scheme, pair with this co-ordinating Trellia print for a grand display.

McCarthy Holden Summer Blooms

4. Ditsy Floral Seat Pad – Dusky Pink, £19.99, Rucomfybeanbags

This sweet seat pad will style up a spindle chair, or garden seating.

McCarthy Holden Summer Blooms

5. Wimbledon in Bloom Tea Towel, £14; Wimbledon in Bloom Large Mug, £19; Wimbledon in Bloom Drinks Tray, £24; Wimbledon in Bloom Apron, £26, rest of items from a selection, Shop.Wimbledon

An exciting new homeware collection themed to ‘tennis in an English Garden,’ this floral range features iconic Wimbledon motifs such as strawberries, tennis rackets and winner’s trophies, strewn with pretty petals and greenery.

McCarthy Holden Summer Blooms

6. Cornflower Pitcher Jug Vase, £16, Dibor

With peony season coming into swing and tulips teasing us with their rich hues, this vintage style vase will enhance your petal power.

McCarthy Holden Summer Blooms

7. Lucy Tiffney Floral Pencil Pleat Campion Blackout Lined Curtains, from £50 to £145; Lucy Tiffney Pink Wildflower Embroidered Cotton Cushion, £24; Lucy Tiffney Pink Floral Diamond Jute Rug, from £60 to £280, rest of items from a selection, Next

A fantastic way to make everything feel fresher is with a new set of curtains… especially a playful floral print you can have lots of fun with. Set against a neutral background, these pops of colour can be picked up with statement scatter cushions, whimsy accessories, and a colourful throw rug to spice things up.

McCarthy Holden Summer Blooms

8. Habitat Confetti Glass Reed Diffuser – Pink Jasmine & Amber, £11, Habitat

The easiest way to scent the home for summer… a decorative diffuser. Think sweetish aromas of pink jasmine with woody hints of amber, to mirror those blossom patterns and cute collections.

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McCarthy Holden Summer Blooms

Which new plants will we be seeing at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show?

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Here are some of the stand-out plants which will be showing for the first time at Chelsea in 2025…

One of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show‘s most anticipated highlights is the array of new plant introductions. And for 2025, the plants certainly don’t disappoint.

Whether you’re after bold colour, unusual forms or something to refresh your planting scheme, this year’s crop of new varieties offers plenty to get excited about.

All plants are new to the UK since last year’s show, so they won’t have been seen at Chelsea before.

Here are some of the latest launches that could find a perfect home in your garden.

1. Hydrangea paniculata ‘Garden lights Little light’ (available from Burncoose Nurseries)

Launching at the show is the Hydrangea ‘Little Light’, being exhibited by Burncoose Nurseries. Little Light is a compact, deciduous shrub with lime-green, cone-shaped flower heads that mature to soft pink in late summer.

Reaching just over one metre tall, it’s ideal for small gardens, borders or containers.

Plant it in spring or autumn in well-drained, fertile soil with full sun to partial shade. It thrives in cooler climates and benefits from regular watering, especially in dry spells – perfect for classic British weather.

Low-maintenance and striking, it brings bold colour and structure to any outdoor space.

2. Clematis ‘Baroness Fookes’ (available from Raymond Evison Clematis)

The clematis ‘Baroness Fookes’ is a striking climber with large, rich purple flowers and contrasting creamy stamens, blooming from early summer to early autumn.

Already on the market, the bloom is ideal for trellises, fences or containers, and it grows best in well-drained soil with its roots in shade and top growth in sun.

If you’re interested in bringing this bloom into your garden, experts suggest you prune lightly in late winter or early spring, and mulch annually to keep roots cool and moist.

This clematis is a vibrant choice for adding height and colour to your garden.

3. Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Fondant Fancy’ (available from British Cosmos)

Sounding as delicious as it looks, the ‘Fondant Fancy’ is a charming annual with soft pink, semi-double blooms and feathery green foliage, bringing a light, romantic feel to borders or cutting gardens.

Best sown indoors in spring or directly outside after the last frost, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

This variety is easy to grow, pollinator-friendly and perfect for adding a whimsical touch to summer displays.

The ‘Fondant Fancy’ is launching at the Chelsea Flower Show and will be available to buy then.

4. Hemerocallis ‘See You Tomorrow’ (available from Sparsholt College)

The ‘See You Tomorrow’ is a striking daylily with large, blooms that come in deep purple and yellow variations, and a contrasting lime-green throat, flowering repeatedly through summer.

Best planted in spring or autumn, it thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. This hardy perennial is low-maintenance, drought-tolerant once established, and ideal for borders or mixed beds.

There will be 2,000 at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show, and 5,000 come autumn. It’s a reliable choice for a cheerful touch in the garden.

5. Hosta ‘Party Streamers’ (available from Sienna Hosta)

Hosta ‘Party Streamers’ are a unique variety with narrow, rippled, lime-green leaves creating a fountain-like effect.

The plant is ideal for shady borders, woodland gardens or containers and is best planted in spring or early autumn – preferring moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade.

Already available for purchase, the Party Streamers’ compact form and striking foliage offer season-long interest, while its lavender-purple summer flowers add a delicate touch to your a garden.

6. Heuchera ‘Eternal Flame’ (available from Hare Spring Cottage Plants)

Heuchera ‘Eternal Flame’ is an evergreen perennial with vibrant foliage that shifts from fiery orange to deep red through the seasons.

Its delicate, airy pink-white flowers appear in summer, adding extra charm. It’s best planted in spring or early autumn and thrives in partial shade and well-drained soil, making it perfect for borders, containers or underplanting shrubs.

Easy to care for, ‘Eternal Flame’ needs regular watering in dry periods and occasional mulching. Remove faded leaves to keep it tidy and divide clumps every few years to refresh growth.

The plant will be available at the show with more coming in autumn this year.

8. Geum ‘FireStarter’ (‘Stocrgeu’) (available from Blue Diamond Garden centres)

The Geum ‘FireStarter’ is an eye-catching perennial featuring fiery red-orange flowers with a frilled edge, blooming from late spring to early summer.

It works well in borders, containers or as ground cover, and suits gardens big and small.

If you opt for a FireStarter, be sure to deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms, and cut back foliage in late autumn to promote healthy growth the following season.

The FireStarter is available from spring 2025 and is ideal for adding colour and texture to your outdoor space.

9. Rhaphiolepis indica ‘White Cloud’ (available from Sparsholt College)

Better known as the Indian Hawthorn, the ‘White Cloud’ is an evergreen shrub with clusters of delicate white flowers, appearing in spring, followed by small purple-black berries.

Having launched this April, the ‘White Cloud is best planted in spring or autumn, and thrives in sunny or partially shaded environments. It’s perfect for adding a bit of elegance to gardens with minimal upkeep.

10. Hydrangea paniculata ‘Groundbreaker Blush’ (available from Blue Diamond Garden centres)

The Hydrangea ‘Groundbreaker Blush’ is a deciduous shrub with cone-shaped clusters of pink-to-white flowers that bloom in summer.

It features rich green foliage and provides a striking contrast as the flowers age. This hydrangea is perfect for borders or containers.

To care for it, water regularly and prune in early spring to maintain shape and encourage vigorous blooms. The Groundbreaker Blush will be available from autumn 2025. It’s low-maintenance and adds a lovely pop of colour to any garden.

Five minutes with.. The Feud stars Jill Halfpenny and Rupert Penry-Jones

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THE FEUD McCarthy Holden News item

Most of us have experience with annoying neighbours. Whether it’s inexplicably always living next door to someone who loves listening to drum and bass at 11 o’clock at night or dealing with quibbles over whose responsibility it is to fix a broken fence panel after an unruly storm, dealing with residential annoyances is part of daily life.

However, new drama The Feud explores what happens when neighbourly disputes get kicked up a notch. The 5 drama, which stars Waterloo Road and The Cuckoo’s Jill Halfpenny and Spooks’ Rupert Penry-Jones as Emma and John Barnett, follows a couple living in peaceful suburbia as plans for a kitchen extension have disastrous consequences.

(By Rachael Davis, PA Assistant Lifestyle Editor)

As objections to the Barnett’s building plans are raised, unexpected and life-threatening secrets are unearthed and Emma’s dreams of upgrading her home twist into obsessive paranoia, fear, and danger – resulting in incalculable consequences for the couple and other residents of Shelbury Drive.

Before the drama unfolds, let’s hear more from stars Halfpenny, 49, and Penry-Jones, 54, about the twists and turns of the not-so-neighbourly disputes.

THE FEUD McCarthy Holden News item
Photo: from The Feud

SO, WHAT IS THE FEUD?

JH: The Feud is a tense thriller. No one is being honest about what they’re doing or how they’re feeling, which makes for exciting television. Even my character Emma, who feels she’s deeply honest, still lies.

It’s a scenario we can all relate to, most people have WhatsApp groups, and most people have experienced neighbours having work done to their house. But where The Feud takes us is the stuff of nightmares.

RPJ: The Feud follows a microcosm of neighbours who live in a cul-de-sac and has elements everybody will connect with. In fact, when we were discussing the series, everyone had a story to tell about battles with neighbours or building disruption. Everyone will be able to relate to a street of people which can implode.

This takes situations to extremes by taking all the worst stories you might hear and combining them into one story.

IT’S A RECOGNISABLE TALE OF BRITISH SUBURBAN LIFE, THEN?

JH: With suburban life, and a street like Shelbury Drive, we all like each other until someone does something to interfere with our lives. We like each other because we’re not getting in each other’s way but the minute you play your music, park over a driveway, or your teenager brings all their friends over, there’s a problem.

In suburbia we’re all fine with each other as long as we’re leaving each other alone – that’s not friendship. If you say you love your neighbours because they don’t do anything to p*** you off, that’s a pretty low bar.

In the first episode you see how quickly the neighbours react defensively – they all profess to like each other and yet within the first episode they all become obstructive.

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THE FEUD McCarthy Holden News item
Photo: from The Feud

I THINK MOST OF US CAN RELATE TO THE COMMUNITY WHATSAPP GROUP FIASCOS IN THE SERIES…

JH: I do have a WhatsApp group and ours mainly consists of bin talk. We live in a flat in a Victorian house and the bins are regularly blown over. There are six bins per house so there’s a debate about who puts the rubbish back in the bins.

The comments by the neighbours in The Feud are very passive aggressive and it doesn’t take long to become out and out aggressive. The gloves are off and there’s no time for WhatsApps anymore.

Another fun aspect of playing Emma is she thought everyone was cool with one another – never believe the WhatsApp group, Emma!

THE FEUD McCarthy Holden News item
Photo: from The Feud

WHAT ARE THE BARNETTS LIKE AS A FAMILY?

RPJ: Emma and John are trying to fix a fault in their relationship and had planned to move home, but Emma decides it would be better to stay and do up the house. Many people, especially at the moment, would understand it’s cheaper to do up your kitchen or build an extension compared to moving and the cost of stamp duty.

However, John’s reasons for wanting to move are not as honest as he pretends. He finds himself in deeper water than intended and he’s trying to run away, so when Emma says they’re going to stay he has to go along with the decision. This compounds all the pressure he’s already feeling.

HOW DOES THE FEUD TAKE SUBURBAN DRAMA TO THE NEXT LEVEL?

RPJ: You know immediately something terrible has happened and all is not as it seems, because the series opens with the house covered in blood. That’s quite fun, and you don’t know how the story reaches that situation.

Emma, Jill’s character, is under constant pressure – as she tries to deal with one person, her phone pings with a message from her dad, and then there’s another message from the builder. The heat’s slowly being turned up underneath her.

There’s a lovely sequence in episode three where our neighbours Derek and Barbara are so angry with us, they start playing modern freeform jazz at full volume through the walls. The scene is like what’s going on inside John and Emma – they’re trying to live normally with a terrible noise in their heads…

In a way the scene reflects the whole series – they’re trying to keep in control, bottling everything up, until they just explode.

JH: I didn’t predict how it would end. I never imagined it would turn quite so gruesome, and I never expected it would go as far as it goes when it starts out in such a domestic setting.

The Feud starts on Monday, April 14 at 9pm on 5

THE FEUD McCarthy Holden News item
Photo: from The Feud
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