Property Search

Uncategorized

December Magazine With Market Insight

by
Magazine photo image McCarthy Holden

What an extraordinary year, defined on a global level with Mr Putin’s destruction and misery when he decided to invade Ukraine in February, introducing unimaginable suffering to the Ukrainian people and also introducing a backdrop of uncertainty across economic activities from stock markets to property markets around the world.

In the first few months the prospect of a stock market and property market downturn had to be considered, but this didn’t happen in the UK and………. You can read the 2022 review by clicking the image below which will take you through to our online digital Magazine In The Country & Town.

Magazine photo image McCarthy Holden

Browsing through our property and lifestyle magazine you will be able to see some of the finest property in the area, available to buy or rent as well as read some engaging editorial content.

Some articles are shown below and a click will take you through.

Magazine photo image McCarthy Holden
Magazine photo image McCarthy Holden
Magazine photo image McCarthy Holden
Magazine photo image McCarthy Holden
Magazine photo image McCarthy Holden
Magazine photo image McCarthy Holden

We wish all of our clients / customers / suppliers and magazine readers a very happy Christmas and an uplifting 2023

Impossipuzzles

by
Brain Teaser Image

Here is the answers to the Impossipuzzle in the November issue of In The Country and Town magazine

1 “Was that your new maths teacher you were talking to?” Greg asked. “She looked a bit young, is she in her twenties?”

Betty smiled. “That’s right, Dad, and she’s lots of fun. Today she told us her age is one less than four times the product of its digits. That’s our homework.”

How old?

ANSWER: Teacher aged 23 years old.

2 When Pam was a year older than Susie was when Pam was half as old as Susie was when Pam was as old as Susie is, Susie was a third as old as Pam was when Susie was ten years younger than Pam is now.

At least one of them is in her ’teens, and of course we have taken ages in completed years.

So how old is Susie?

ANSWER: Susie 12 years old (Pam 14).

3 “The twins? They are the youngest of my sister Jane’s children,” said Joe.

“What about her other three kids?” asked Andy.

“Well, they’re spaced one year apart, the youngest one a year older than the twins,” Joe replied. “It’s odd that the total of all the kids’ ages is exactly the square of the age of the twins.”

How old were the twins?

ANSWER: The twins were 6 years old.

4 Sam seemed to be digging up his square tiled patio when I dropped in on him yesterday. “No, only making it smaller,” he told me. “I’m removing the outer tile all the way round. That’s taking away one tile less than the total that will remain.”

The tiles were square and all the same size, so how many would he be removing?

ANSWER: 24 tiles to be removed.

5 “Homework?” Fred asked.

“Sort of, Dad,” he replied. “I’ve been figuring out a number that’s the square of its first pair of digits added to twice the square of the other pair.”

Fred jotted down some figures on a scrap of paper. “You mean like 2832, twice the square of 32 plus the square of 28?”

“Yes, but I found a different number.”

What was it?

ANSWER: Doug’s number was 7232.

6 “You can have all my change if you tell me how much is in my left pocket,” said Uncle Joe. “I’ve got twice as much in there as I have in my right pocket,”

“Let’s have a clue,” said Cathy.

“Okay,” her uncle replied. “It’s just one and a half times as much as I’d have in my right pocket if I transferred 37 p’s to it from my left pocket.”

Well?

ANSWER: £2.22 in Joe’s left pocket.

 

Brain Teaser Image

What NOT to do to your houseplants if you want them to survive

by

As you bring your houseplants in after summer, think about location and light, an expert advises.

As the cooler months beckon, it’s time for houseplants to take centre stage, but if you’re not sure how you should be treating them, they may not last long.

It’s true, some are more difficult than others. If you’re prone to neglect, then you won’t have to think so much about watering plants like colourful Christmas cacti and even orchids, which only need watering once a week.

But if you are trying to look after more difficult types, such as the maidenhair fern, which can’t tolerate dry air, fiddle-leaf fig or zebra plant, you will need to give them much more TLC.

So, what should we NOT be doing?

Kate Lindley, product manager at Baby Bio (solabiol.com), offers this advice…

Don’t leave them outside for too long after summer

If you moved your houseplants outside over summer, make sure you don’t leave them out as the months get cooler. As soon as the temperatures drop slightly overnight, bring them in, or the chill could cause damage.

Don’t leave them near radiators or in draughts

When you bring them inside, don’t place them near draughty windows or in rooms which become particularly chilly, such as conservatories or porches.

Most common houseplants are native to warm, tropical environments, and are extremely sensitive to the cold. Bonsai trees, for example, can quickly die if they are left in a draughty spot.

Likewise, don’t place them near radiators, as intense heat from central heating can cause leaves to turn brown and crispy and cause plants to become stressed.

Instead, move them to a more central position in the room or elevate them away from the heat source. You can also add a humidifier or place your plants next to a tray of pebbles in a shallow layer of water to increase humidity. Remember to mist regularly, too.

Don’t repot in winter

Ideally, the best time to repot houseplants is during spring and summer, when they are actively growing. It is possible to repot houseplants in autumn, just as long as it’s not too late into the season. Most houseplants become dormant throughout winter, so their rate of growth is much slower and roots may not take to the new soil as well.

Don’t propagate after autumn

Early autumn is usually your last chance to take cuttings from your plant babies, as root growth will slow down from November until next season.

There are several different ways to propagate, from water propagation to leaf cuttings and dividing – the most appropriate method depends on the type of plant you want to make multiply. Pothos, Monstera deliciosa, ZZ plants (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) and inch plants (Tradescantia zebrina) tend to prefer water propagation, whereas succulents are easy to propagate from leaf cuttings, and any plant which produces ‘pups’, like a Chinese money plant, can be divided.

During the dormant season, though, taking more hardwood cuttings (in other words, the whole stem) will provide best results, as there is more energy to help fuel the production of new roots.

Don’t overwater

One of the biggest killers of houseplants all year round is accidental overwatering, but they are particularly susceptible in autumn and winter, as plants are not actively growing, and therefore require much less water. Too much water can lead to root rot, gnat problems and a lack of oxygen reaching the roots.

Don’t water your plants straight from the cold tap

Tap water can become too cold during winter months, and shock the root system. Instead, use tepid water by allowing it to reach room temperature before watering your plants. Using up old glasses of tap water lying around the house is a great way of saving on water consumption.

Don’t leave them in dark rooms

Plants require sunlight to photosynthesise, but it is often in short supply during autumn and winter. Make sure you open your curtains and consider moving houseplants to a sunnier spot, such as a south-facing window (but out of direct sunlight), as long as it is not too close to a radiator or draughty window.

7 expert tips to help kids and teens declutter

by

A decluttering expert offers advice for parents who are sick of messy bedrooms. By Katie Wright.

It’s hard enough to get kids to tidy their rooms on a regular basis, so when it comes to getting rid of clothes, toys and general junk that has accumulated over the years parents may be tempted to just get stuck in and do it themselves.

But that’s not the best approach, says professional declutterer Kate Ibbotson, who is supporting the British Heart Foundation Declutter Challenge (bhf.org.uk/declutter) this autumn, calling on the public to donate preloved items to help fund life saving research.

“Avoid decluttering their belongings without their consent,” she says. “Start the process with communication – older children are more likely to feel motivated to declutter if they feel their opinions and wishes are respected.”

Before you begin, take some time to talk about why it’s important to throw away old or unused items.

“Discuss how the benefits could be relevant to them – after all, a clutter-free bedroom means it’s quicker and easier to tidy,” Ibbotson says.

“Also discuss the emotional benefits – with less clutter around, the house looks and feels nicer, resulting in a more relaxing environment for everyone, and it creates more time to spend on things they enjoy.”

Here, Ibbotson offer seven useful tips to help kids and teens get organised.

1. Ask the right questions

If you’re faced with a child who doesn’t want to throw anything away in case they might need it in future, encourage them to consider if that’s really true.

Ibbotson advises: “Teach them the skill of curating belongings by asking them questions like, ‘When was the last time you used this?’, ‘Do you have something else that does the same job?’ or, ‘Could the space this takes up be better used to store something else?’”

2. Chop it into chunks

Setting aside a whole day to overhaul a wardrobe, bedroom or playroom could feel overwhelming, but short decluttering sessions are more managable.

“Avoid approaching decluttering as if it’s a chore,” says Ibbotson. “This may mean simply getting your teen to declutter in small bursts of 15 or 30 minutes whilst listening to their favourite music.”

3. Tackle the ‘floordrobe’

Is your child seemingly unable to put anything back in their wardrobe, instead chucking everything on the floor (or over the back of a chair) until a mountainous pile of garments dominates the room?

“Encourage them to adopt daily habits to keep in control of their wardrobe, as a lack of daily routines are the cause of the ‘floordrobe’,” says Ibbotson. “These could include a permanent charity box in their bedroom where they can toss in unwanted items as they go, or even a daily routine of putting clothes away or in the laundry basket.”

To prevent the accumulation of more unworn clothes, talk to your kids about the environmental impact of the fashion indsutry.

“Teenagers may already have their own views on the importance of sustainability, so you can help by encouraging them to avoid buying too much ‘fast fashion’,” Ibbotson advises. “Instead, see if they can focus on owning fewer clothes and consider buying things pre-loved.”

4. One in, one out

“If they are getting new items such as backpacks, pencil cases or sports gear, emphasise the ‘one in, one out rule’,” says Ibbotson, meaning throwing away one thing for every new purchase.

“If the items they are replacing are still in good condition, they can donate them to charity.”

5. Lead by example

It’s no good telling kids to clear out their rooms when the rest of the house is overflowing with junk.

“As adults, the best thing we can do if we want to encourage a behaviour is to consistently model it ourselves,” says Ibbotson.

“Our homes are constantly changing and evolving so make regular decluttering part of life, but do it ‘as you go’ to avoid feeling overwhelmed.”

6. Save some sentimental items

While it’s sensible to ditch clothes that don’t fit or toys that teens have outgrown, kids might be reluctant to part with favourite teddies or dolls.

“Stuffed animals can continue to hold sentimental value to teens but agree boundaries on what you have room to store,” Ibbotson says, then donate items that are still in good condition.

“Encourage them to make the link between donating unused toys and games to charity and go further by talking about what, who and how exactly that could help.”

7. Offer incentives

A bit of bribery can go a long way when it comes to decluttering, Ibbotson says: “Create incentives to encourage your teen to keep on top of their belongings by making treats, screen time or spending money, dependant on keeping their space tidy.”

It may be exasperating at times but try to encourage rather than nag, she adds: “Adopting habits takes time and patience so keep going with the encouragement – even if it may seem repetitive!”

Check mate: 12 ways to get cosy with timeless tartan and gorgeous gingham this winter

by

These stylish checked pieces offer easy updates, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

Trends come and go. But if you’re after lasting appeal, it’s always advisable to stick with the classics.

Combining traditional tartan and gingham into a scheme can strike a harmonious balance – especially at this time of year, as we yearn for those calm and snug vibes. These strong repeat patterns provide visual interest and can help warm a room with colour and texture.

Here’s how to soften the edges and introduce some checked contrast as the nights draw in…

1. Katie Alice Vintage Indigo Gingham Side Plates, £8.99 each, Vintage Indigo Teapot, £39.99, rest of items from a selection, Katie Alice

Inspired by Dutch Delftware, these ceramic navy gingham plates reinvent the past with thoughts of afternoon tea and shortbread biscuits.

2. Madras Gold Check Throw, £60, Check Cushions, £55, Weaver Green

If you’re coveting throws and cushions right now, you’re not alone. Comforting and cheerful, we love the yellows, blues and soft pinks in this timeless design. Ideal for styling on rustic furniture, flea market finds, as well as a sofa.

3. Gingham Check Stoneware Vase – Lilac, £14, Five And Dime

Romantic and quaint, we’re definitely sensing a nod to cottagecore when you fill this charming vase with dried flowers.

4. Heritage Tartan Wallpaper in Egyptian Blue and Mineral, £46 per roll, Lucie Annabel

Classic plaid prints can play up the dullest of corners, and spur the imagination with thoughts of a glowing fireplace, glass of claret and chic drinks trolley. This tartan wallpaper in Egyptian blue will give any room a fresh face and add a touch of drama.

5. Mustard House Pink Weave Set of 4 Placemats – Multi, £32, and Set of 4 Coasters, £16, MADE.com

For a lovely twist on table settings, who says checks can’t be contemporary?

6. Balmoral Check Cushion Covers, £6 each, Studio

For a quickie fabric fix, take an existing cushion pad and swap out the cover for one of these game-changing designs, available in all your favourite shades.

7. Gleneagles Pattern Carpet in Kinross Grey Plaid, £44.99 per square metre, Carpetright

This woven Wilton carpet in an elegant dove grey check will bring any space to life. Versatile enough to work like a dream with exposed wooden beams, neutrals and Scandi inspired mid-century furniture, not to mention country living schemes and monochrome room sets.

8. Merino Lambswool Navy Tartan Plaid Throw, £89.95, Annabel James

If you’re after a stylish merino lambswool throw to snuggle up with, while dipping your toe in the world of tartan, you can’t go wrong with the coordinating tones in this one.

9. Carnoustie Check Grey Blackout Lined Eyelet Curtains, from £40, Julian Charles

Winter warmth within easy reach, these dapper check curtains are fully lined, featuring easy to hang eyelets. Best of all, they’ll reduce draughts from windows and prevent the heat from escaping. What’s not to love?

10. Ellie Check Accent Chair with Plain Bolster Cushion in Plum Combination, £479, DFS

With its soft curves and sumptuous padding, this vintage-inspired accent chair certainly looks the part, especially if you’ve got your heart set on creating a comfortable seating area to sink into at the end of a long day. Available with a choice of oak and antique feet and 12 colour ways.

11. Berry Gingham Linen Bedtime Bundle, from £297 (Duvet Cover, Sheets Pillowcases; items also available separately), Piglet In Bed

A palate of berry-red gingham checks always feels right this time of year – and a real winner styled with burgundy blankets, vases of dried pampas grasses, quirky decos and curios. This set’s made from stonewashed European flax, prewashed for soft bedtime bliss.

12. Tartan Faux Fur Storage Basket, £9, Matalan

Since when did storage look so cushy? A perfect prop to clear the clutter, think magazines, home crafts, or even your favourite warming, wintry tipple.

UK Drive: Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS

by
Porche post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

By Jack Evans, PA Motoring Reporter.

Only Porsche’s most focused, performance-oriented models get the RS treatment. There’s been longstanding thought that the Cayman has been kept at such a level so as not to interfere with its 911 big-brother – but with the new 718 Cayman GT4 RS, the gloves are off.

This is a Cayman dialled right the way up. Acting as a flagship for the range, it gets the same engine as the larger 911 GT3 but in a more compact, lightweight body. And of course, as with any RS model, it’s got a host of aerodynamic touches that not only keep it as sticky in the bends as possible, but ensure nobody misses it. We’ve been behind the wheel…

Porche post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

WHAT’S NEW?

Every part of the regular Cayman GT4 has been tweaked, sharpened and – in most places – made lighter in its evolution to RS specification. It weighs in at 1,415kg with fuel, some 35kg less than the regular GT4. This has been achieved through the widespread use of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) in areas such as the bonnet and wings, while even the carpets have been made thinner and lighter.

A new Weissach package – fitted to our test car – takes these measures even further and adds a titanium roll cage, titanium exhaust pipes and a number of panels that are given a carbon-weave finish for an even sportier look.

WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?

The GT4 RS makes use of the same 4.0-litre naturally aspirated flat-six engine that you’ll find in the larger 911 GT3. That means an extra 79bhp over the standard GT4, with total power coming in at 493bhp. Torque has been lifted too, rising from 430Nm to 450Nm. All cars get Porsche’s seven-speed dual-clutch PDK automatic gearbox – there’s no manual option here, unlike the GT4.

What that equates to in terms of performance is a 0-60mph time of 3.2 seconds while flat-out it’ll manage 195mph, edging the standard GT4’s top speed of 187mph. Though fuel economy isn’t, of course, the real goal for a car like this Porsche claims that the RS will still return up to 22.8mpg, though these figures have come through the older NEDC testing cycle.

Porche post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

There’s no need to dance around it – the Cayman 718 GT4 RS drives like few other cars available today. This is a car that takes the performance and brawniness of the larger GT3 and throws it into an even sharper and more compact package. The steering is spot-on, while the gear shifts from the PDK gearbox fire into place with scarcely believable crispness.

Then there’s the noise of the thing. The GT4 RS features air intakes behind the driver and passenger windows, so when you’re accelerating hard you get this glorious blend of intake noise and outright savagery from the engine. The engine, since we’re here, feels even more capable within the Cayman package, while the ride – though firm – is remarkably pliant. We even spent one or two hours on the motorway and the Cayman managed it without a quibble.

HOW DOES IT LOOK?

Porsche’s RS models aren’t known for their shy and retiring looks, and the GT4 RS is no different. Our car’s Weissach package included a carbon-fibre weave bonnet and a huge rear wing, meaning everywhere it went, it attracted a crowd. But these types of cars aren’t designed to fly under the radar, so we can’t fault it for a bit of flamboyance.

The whole car is designed to go fast, after all, which is why it incorporates all manner of aerodynamic touches. The underneath of the car has been optimised to lower drag and it ties in with the rear diffuser, too. As a result of these changes – and others – the RS generates 25% more downforce than the regular GT4, in fact.

Porche post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?

The cabin is definitely stripped back, but it hasn’t been left devoid of creature comforts either. Our car came with air conditioning (something that is usually taken away from lightweight models), and this does help to make the RS more agreeable as an everyday road car. The bucket seats – which can be adjusted for height – are hugely supportive, while the general driving position is absolutely spot-on.

Plus, because it’s still a Cayman, the GT4 RS has a usable front boot section in the nose which has 125 litres, while a rear storage area adds an extra 136 litres, so there’s more than enough space for a few bags.

Porche post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

Prices for the Cayman GT4 RS start from £108,370 and though that represents a huge premium over the regular Cayman’s £47,700 starting price, it feels worth every single penny. Of course, the majority of that cost is going into mechanical upgrades, with all of Porsche’s motorsport learnings poured into this pint-sized performance car.

Features such as an adjustable chassis for race track use and ball-jointed suspension mountings – which help to give more direct handling – show that the upgrades to this car are all about making it go as quickly and drive as sharply as possible. You can – as with any Porsche – bump the price up considerably by going near to the options list, with our test car coming in at just over £133,000 after all of its extras had been applied.

VERDICT

The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS is undeniably one of motoring’s all-time greats. This is a car to remind you just why driving is so special and, through its almost nerve-like link between driver and machine, ensures that each drive is just as memorable as the last.

Though it might be angled towards track use this is still a hugely competent road car and one that should be celebrated wholeheartedly. Its combination of pace and outright agility is nothing short of spectacular. It’s a sports car for the ages.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

Model: Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS

Price: £108,370

Model as tested: Cayman GT4 RS

Price as tested: £133,549

Engine: 4.0-litre naturally-aspirated flat-six

Power: 493bhp

Torque: 450Nm

0-60mph: 3.2 seconds

Top speed: 195mph

Economy: 22.8mpg

Emissions: 299g/km CO2

Footnote – If you are looking for the perfect property to go with this car, why not consider this fine home

Ukrainian chef Olia Hercules on cooking as an act of resistance

by
Ukrainian Chef post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

For Olia Hercules, cooking is normally her therapy, her safe space – but she lost this when Russia invaded her native country, Ukraine.

“For the first two months or so, I couldn’t really cook – it was a weird feeling,” the 38-year-old remembers. “Normally it’s an act of meditation and stress relief. If it’s a normal, everyday stress, I cook – especially if I make something a bit more involved, like dough, breadmaking, dumplings – something like that, it’s amazing.

“But when you’re going through trauma, it was completely different. I felt guilty eating at first, then I felt guilty cooking. It was a horrible feeling, and I couldn’t shake it off.”

Ukrainian Chef post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

She eventually felt differently while making her parents a meal in Italy after they fled Ukraine. “That’s when it lifted, and I was like yes, I’ve got it back. I’m enjoying making this borscht for them, I know it’s going to do so much good.”

Now, Hercules says she realises cooking is “an act of resistance and defiance, and not letting Putin and his goons take all the joy away from us – because that’s what they’re trying to do”.

Recently, after some particularly bad news about the war, Hercules regressed to those feelings – but her mother brought her back to herself. “She said, ‘This is what he’s [Vladimir Putin] trying to do. Don’t let him do this – this is how we’re going to lose if we’re going to be paralysed by fear all the time and stop living.’ So we can’t stop living – and food is life.”

Now, Hercules is learning to take better care of herself, whether that’s returning to cooking, booking herself into an embroidery course, or writing. She also set up the Cook for Ukraine campaign with friend and food writer Alissa Timoshkina, as a way of raising awareness.

“At first we thought, OK, this is going to be a hashtag, and maybe we’ll think of something – a donation situation,” she says. “We were like, it’s good enough to just do a hashtag, cook a Ukrainian meal, and educate people and keep Ukraine in the news, keep talking about it – and also this thing of connection.”

If somebody in Britain makes a Ukrainian dish, Hercules suggests: “It’s much easier for them to imagine a family that would have been having this dish somewhere in Ukraine – and now they can’t do that anymore. The headlines are there, and with time it’s only natural for people to start disassociating, and being like, OK, I need to preserve my sanity, I can’t look at this horror all the time.

“But having something cultural – especially something to do with food – keeps you connected, and also gives you strength in a way.”

The campaign’s success exceeded Hercules’ expectations, and as well as raising awareness around the situation in Ukraine, it’s also a window into the country’s unique cuisine.

She accepts there are preconceptions about Ukrainian food. “People have said it is all about potatoes and dumplings and overcooked cabbage, which was actually really hurtful. But stereotypes are stereotypes – I don’t blame people for having them.”

Ukrainian Chef post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

Instead, she wants people to know the cuisine is so much more than that – it’s “diverse, and can be fresh and herbaceous”.

Now though, Hercules doesn’t feel like she has to convince everyone that Ukraine is a rich and diverse country. It is – but she also says: “It’s time to embrace all of our potato and cabbage dishes, because they’re actually extremely delicious.”

She has one of these potato dishes in her latest cookbook, Home Food. A staple growing up, the recipe for crispy potatoes and onions is “something everybody could do – students do it – and the perfection of this dish is because you cut the potatoes in an imperfect way. [Even if] you’re striving to do really thin slices, inevitably some will be thicker than others – and that’s what you want, that’s what makes it so good. Because some of the potatoes become more crispy, and some become soft.”

Hercules rediscovered the recipe during the start of the pandemic, asking her mum about it (who, by the way, didn’t think it even counted as a recipe) – and now it’s well and truly back in her repertoire.

Ukrainian Chef post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

Through writing her new book, Hercules realised how much food can connect people – regardless of where you come from. She reflects on her time in Italy (she spent a year there during university as part of an exchange program), saying: “When I lived in Italy, I immediately connected to my fellow students” through food.

In her halls of residence, “We became friends with loads of Italian students living there – they were from all over, especially from the south of Italy. A few of them used to receive parcels from their families – one of the boys’ papa was a butcher, so he’d receive hunks of amazing cuts of meat and jars with what they call ‘sugo de la mama’ – like tomato sauce, either with meatballs or whatever. And we’d all benefit from it, because it’s so delicious.

This immediately transported Hercules back in time, to when her older brother went to university in Odessa when she was 12. “I remember my mum packing these big boxes, and once she even packed a whole roasted duck into the box, and you’d go to the bus station, and you’d pay someone to take the box on the bus, and then he’d receive it on the other end.”

When she first arrived in Italy, Hercules admits her grasp of the language was rudimentary – but she managed to communicate this story to her new friends, and find common ground.

“[Food] breaks barriers, and immediately makes you feel closer,” she reflects. “I think the book has become that in many ways, reflecting through cultures. I realised food and humour have been the two ways for me, in each culture I experienced or tried to assimilate into – as soon as there was some kind of a connection in what we ate, and as soon as I understood the humour in another language, I was like OK, this is it. I feel at home now.”

Home Food: Recipes To Comfort And Connect by Olia Hercules is published by Bloomsbury Publishing, priced £26. Photography by Joe Woodhouse. Available now.

Article by Prudence Wade, PA

How to help small birds this summer

by
Help Small Birds post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

How to help smaller birds fight for their share in your garden

By Sam Wylie-Harris, PA.

One of the joys of having a garden is bird watching – whether it’s birdsong, the flutter of wings, a happy chirp, birds cooling off in your birdbath or feeding time.

When you’ve put out the seeds, scraps or finely chopped unsalted bacon, you want everyone to have a share of the pickings.

But if you’re not careful, it only takes a greedy magpie or squawking jackdaw to steal the best bites and leave the little ones with nothing.

So, is there any way you can at least deter some of the bigger birds to allow the smaller ones a chance?

Help Small Birds post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

Sarah Hancocks, of specialist CJ Wildlife says: “There is never a guarantee that by putting out bird food, larger birds won’t attempt to eat it. However, some foods such as nyjer seed are less likely to attract larger birds because they have the biggest draw to greenfinches and chaffinches.

“Mesh feeders that contain peanuts are also less likely to attract larger birds, as the mesh makes it more difficult for them to get to the food.

“There are also small steps you can take to help keep them away from your caged feeders while maintaining some harmony among all kinds of birds – we never want to leave anyone out,” she adds.

Here’s what experts advise to help smaller birds have their fair share.

1. Add a ground feeder

Ensure the larger birds have their own supply of food away from your small garden bird feeder – Hancocks says this will deter them away from waiting for scraps from the smaller birds.

2. Place your garden bird feeder behind dense shrubbery or planting

“Out of sight, out of mind! Larger ground feeding birds are less likely to forage for food that’s more hidden behind shrubbery and plants,” she says.

“Whereas smaller garden birds such as blue tits and chaffinches will root around for their food in the undergrowth, so hiding your bird feeder can help deter larger birds.”

Place your feeder close to a hedge or wall – this will stop any large birds landing on your feeder, causing it to swing and shake food to the floor.

“This often causes a feeding frenzy for ground feeding birds!” she adds.

3. Place some food higher

As Hancocks points out: “Larger birds are much more likely to sit and feed from greater heights. So by putting out some food on top of your garden shed, one top of a high wall or other high flat locations, this will keep the bigger birds happy and off the smaller garden bird feeders.”

4. Choose food that’s suitable for little birds

Help Small Birds post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

In terms of food to offer small birds in your garden at this time of year, Helen Moffat from the RSPB says black sunflower seeds are popular with lots of garden birds, from finches to robins and tits, along with other smaller seed varieties like millet and flaked maize.

“Split peas, beans, dried rice, lentils and even dog biscuits are sometimes added to cheaper seed mixes to bulk them out – and small birds cannot eat things like this unless they have been soaked, so try and avoid them,” advises Moffat.

Whilst there are chicks in nests, she recommends avoiding foods which pose choking risks like whole peanuts and fat.

“These foods become important later in the year, when birds need more calories to cope with the colder weather,” notes Moffat.

“You can also put out some staples from your own kitchen such as soft fruit, like halved apples and bananas, soaked raisins or grated cheese.”

5. Get the right feeder

As Moffat points out, feeders are key to helping ensure smaller birds can access food, if you’re concerned about larger species taking it all first.

Whatever food you choose, she says it’s still likely to be eaten by larger ones if they can get to it.

“Special nyjer seed feeders have very small feeding holes which are difficult for larger birds to feed from. Finches – especially goldfinches – love this tiny oil-rich seed,” she says.

“Hanging bird feeders are ideal for perch-feeding birds like tits, goldfinches, and greenfinches, and you can deter larger birds with ‘feeder guardians’ – cages placed around the feeders.”

Moffat says no feeder guardian is 100% effective – and small or juvenile squirrels can sometimes squeeze through – so she advises regular checking.

Also, having a mix of feeders is best, she says, to ensure all birds can access some food – and don’t forget clean water too, an essential all year round but especially during hot weather.

6. Consider the weather

Help Small Birds post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

Food for your garden birds becomes vital if there are changes in the weather, warns Moffat, such as the extreme heat we’ve had.

“The hard, dry earth makes it really difficult for ground-feeding birds like black birds and thrushes to reach earthworms, and likewise, cold, wet spells can affect the insects available.”

5 of the best parasols for your garden

by

Big brollies are all the rage, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

Here comes the sun! Spending time eating al fresco, reading and relaxing, or simply watching the world go by, is one life’s little pleasures.

But sometimes a sunhat and pair of shades aren’t always the best protection, especially when those rays get a little more fierce – and yet you still want to sit outside.

For a little garden therapy, parasols are proving a hot favourite this summer.

“Parasols might be something of an essential, but can be so much more than a practical addition to outside spaces,” says Brendon Haxby, founder of interiors specialists Naken.

“We’ve seen a real move in how homeowners are using their home’s exteriors. Gardens, regardless of size, are becoming an extension of the home, with more people using their outdoor spaces to socialise, entertain and cook.

“So, it’s no surprise that when it comes to exterior styling, people are getting more picky – even when it comes to their parasols.

“A battered brolly from summers past no longer cuts it,” says Haxby.

He says for summer 2022, we’re going to see a lot more parasols that are inline with interior styles. “Expect a more maximalist approach – parasols that are a little ‘extra’.

“Think, tassels, more considered curves and a range of finishes that will complement existing garden furnishings,” adds Naken.

And just in case you’re sizing up your precious piece of patio, designers are catering for bijou balconies, as well as a manicured lawn.

Dave Dryden, Christow’s home and garden guru says: “As well as standard two metre, 2.4 metre, and 2.7 metre diameter parasols, we also stock a ‘Half Parasol’. Basically, the canopy is half the size of a normal canopy – kind of like a parasol that’s been chopped in half!” he adds. “They’re a popular choice if you have a small patio or balcony area, because they take up half the space.

Here’s how to feel you’ve got it made in the shade…

1. Banana Parasol, 3m, Navy, £79.99, Christow

Super for larger areas, this banana parasol has an offset base with an overhanging canopy, so there’s no pole in the middle to tie you to a table. Ideal for sun loungers or a paddling pool.

2. 2.4m Boho Tile Carousel Parasol, £100, Dunelm

Pretty as a picture, this boho beauty makes you want to unfurl a blanket, scatter some cushions and pop the cork on a bottle of pink prosecco.

3. Norfolk Leisure 2.7m Round Geisha Parasols, £219 each, Hayes Garden World

A kaleidoscope of colour, we’d have one of these gorgeous Geisha parasols in every shade, given half the chance.

4. Garden Must-Haves Carousel Outdoor Parasol – Anthracite & Green, £166.50, Naken

With a crank and tilt option, this pretty parasol can follow your shadow as the sun rises and sets.

5. Olive & Lilac Carousel Stripe Parasol, £375, Rockett St George

With a vintage-inspired design, trendy tassels and its own matching fabric carrier bag with straps, this parasol feels as much at home in the garden, as it does the beach.

6 key tips for planning the perfect Platinum Jubilee party

by

Celebrate in style with fabulous food, decorations and entertainment. By Katie Wright.

It’s not often we’re gifted an extra long weekend, but that’s what’s happening this year, with a Bank Holiday added on Friday June 3 to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

Plus, the usual late May bank holiday has been pushed back to Thursday June 2, meaning a four-day break at the end of spring for many of us.

If you’re choosing to celebrate 70 years of Her Majesty’s reign with a party, now’s the time to start thinking about the food and drink, decorations and other plans for a right royal knees-up.

Here, experts offer top tips on how to organise and host a brilliant Platinum Jubilee bash…

1. Start the preparations early

“Whether you’re planning a small gathering in your garden or arranging one of the thousands of street parties expected across the UK, the earlier you get organised the better,” says Sarah Allsop, creative manager at Party Delights. “The more you plan, the less stressful things will be, and you can sit back and enjoy the fun with your guests.”

Make sure you’ve got the go-ahead for any al fresco activities, she continues: “You will need permission from your local council if you and your neighbours are planning a street party and you want to close a section of the road to traffic. If you want to hold your party on external private land or green space, then the landowner will need to give their approval.”

Getting these permissions in place is definitely not a last-minute job – check what the deadlines are in your area and make sure to apply promptly.

2. Get the invites out

Next up is the guest list and invites, which is key when it comes to planning other elements of the party.

Allsop says: “Having an idea of numbers will help you to decide on how much space you need, the seating arrangements, your food and drink and what type of entertainment you might like to have. Get your invites out at least a month before and make sure you ask guests to RSVP.”

3. Choose your menu

Once you know how many you’re catering for, you can decide on your food and drink selection.

“Most people will opt for a buffet or afternoon tea-style menu,” Allsop says. “Afternoon tea is quintessentially British and fits perfectly with such a royal occasion.”

Ameer Kotecha, author of The Platinum Jubilee Cookbook (Jon Croft Editions, £30) set up the Platinum Pudding competition (platinumjubilee.gov.uk) to find a dessert to celebrate the occasion, the winner of which will be announced in mid-May.

“Obviously, I would recommend people serve up the platinum pudding as part of their street parties – the idea is it should be like a successor to the Victoria Sponge,” Kotecha says. “Then I would say try and think of things that maybe have a connection to the Queen and to the monarchy. The way you can tell is because they’ve been given royal warrants.”

For example, you could incorporate chocolate from Bendicks or Charbonnel et Walker, McVitie’s digestive biscuits or classic summer tipple Pimm’s.

Kotecha adds: “Try and feature Pimm’s in your dessert somehow or [use] McVitie’s digestives in a cheesecake. It’s quite a fun way of showing off British produce and the great stuff that we have.”

For larger gatherings such as street parties, it can help to share the load, Allsop says: “Allocate each of your neighbours something to bring for a shared table. Traditional items such as sandwiches, cakes and scones are typical but really anything goes.

“You might want to have some hot options on hand too, like pizzas or a large pot of stew. When planning your menu, make sure you ask guests if they have any dietary requirements so you can cater for them appropriately.”

4. Decide on your decor

“A party isn’t a party without decorations – and for an occasion like this, there’s no such thing as too much,” says Allsop. “In terms of colour, a traditional red, white and blue theme with Union Jacks and crowns aplenty will certainly be the popular choice. But if you want something a little more subdued then purple, gold and white can all feel very regal.”

For street parties, bunting is a must. “We have seen an incredible demand for it at Party Delights already and are selling thousands of metres a week,” says Allsop. “You can also create your own decorations by looking for printable options online or make traditional paper chains with red, white and blue card.”

5. Dress for the occasion

A dress code isn’t compulsory, of course, but suggesting an optional theme can be a fun addition to the party – just make sure to tell guests in advance so they have time to plan their outfits.

“Ask guests to dress to impress in their finest clothing, wear a particular colour, or even come as their favourite royal,” Allsop suggests. “For more of a light-touch dress code, jubilee party accessories such as hats, tiaras, wigs and masks are the perfect alternative.”

6. Keep the kids entertained

“If there’s going to be lots of children at your jubilee party, then you will want to make sure there is plenty to keep them occupied them all day,” Allsop says.

“Invest in some garden games or a pinata. These are great fun for all ages, even the adults,” she suggests. “Setting up an arts and crafts table with lots of jubilee themed activities can help keep little hands busy. Or, if the British weather is kind and the sun looks set to shine, set up the paddling pool or some garden water games to keep the kids cool as well as entertained.”

×
Find a Property
M
Country & Equestrian
By submitting this form, you agree to McCarthy Holden using your personal data in accordance with our Privacy Notice.