The Harley Street Skin Clinic is proud to sponsor the Personal Achievement Award at the 2026 Autism Hero Awards in London on 9 May, celebrating individuals who have shown exceptional courage, determination, and resilience in the face of adversity.
For decades, Harley Street has been synonymous with excellence in medicine, and the Harley Street Skin Clinic has remained firmly at the forefront of this tradition. Combining world-class medical expertise with compassionate, patient-centred care, the clinic continues to set the benchmark in both aesthetic and medical treatment.
At the heart of this commitment is Dr Aamer Khan, who is widely recognised not only for his clinical expertise but also for his dedication to supporting autistic individuals and their families. Through thoughtful research, practical treatment approaches, and genuine empathy, Dr Khan helps people navigate everyday challenges with confidence, dignity, and understanding.
The clinic’s outstanding reputation has been built on trust, precision, and an unwavering focus on patient wellbeing. By blending a rich medical heritage with the latest technological advancements, Harley Street Skin ensures that every client receives the highest standard of care, from consultation to aftercare.
Co-founder Lesley Reynolds and Managing Director Sophie Cooper are equally admired, not only for their professional achievements but for their deeply empathetic approach to charity and community engagement. Their support for the autistic community extends far beyond the clinic walls and into their everyday lives, reflecting a genuine commitment to making a meaningful difference.
Through its sponsorship of the Autism Hero Awards, Harley Street Skin has become a proud champion of Anna Kennedy Online, the leading autism charity founded by Dr Anna Kennedy OBE. Speaking about the partnership, Dr Kennedy said:“To have the Harley Street Skin Clinic as a sponsor is truly wonderful.
Their approach to autism research and understanding is inspiring, and I am excited to work closely with them.”Since 2004, Dr Aamer Khan and Lesley Reynolds have worked tirelessly to build Harley Street Skin into a trusted name in cosmetic and medical excellence. With a family legacy in medicine spanning four generations, their dedication has earned the clinic an enviable reputation and a high-profile client base.
Their journey was even showcased on Sky Television in the acclaimed series Stitch Me, Lift Me, Tuck Me.Today, the clinic continues to flourish under Sophie Cooper’s leadership, bringing fresh vision and energy while preserving its family-run values.
Offering a comprehensive range of surgical and non-surgical treatments—from advanced body sculpting and cosmetic contouring to breast enhancement and anti-ageing procedures—Harley Street Skin remains committed to excellence at every level.Through innovation, compassion, and community spirit, the Harley Street Skin Clinic stands proudly alongside the Autism Hero Awards, honouring personal achievement and helping to build a more inclusive, understanding society.
Dolly Dolittle’s Wildlife Adventure is coming to Billericay this April in celebration of World Autism Awareness Day, bringing together acclaimed Animal Wildlife Presenter Nicki Rodriguez at Living Things in support of Anna Kennedy Online.
The special family-friendly event will take place on Thursday, 2nd April, from 12:00pm to 2:30pm at The Beauvoir Arms, Downham Road, Downham, Billericay, CM11 1QH.
The main show will begin at 12:30pm and will be followed by a buffet for guests included in the price .
Meet a friendly snake .
Organised to mark World Autism Awareness Day, the event aims to raise awareness and vital funds for Anna Kennedy Online, a leading UK charity dedicated to supporting autistic individuals and their families through advocacy, education, and community programmes. Dolly Dolittle’s Wildlife Adventure offers children and adults a unique opportunity to engage safely with a range of fascinating animals, including meerkats, snakes, tarantulas, and flying sugar gliders. Delivered in a fully supervised and educational environment, the experience encourages respect for wildlife while inspiring curiosity and learning.
The expert team at Living Things are nationally recognised for their high standards of animal care and are regularly trusted by television and film productions for their professionalism and specialist knowledge. Every animal featured in the show is carefully looked after, ensuring both their wellbeing and a positive experience for visitors. Nicky Rodriguez is also energetic and her engaging performances have delighted audiences across the UK. Having entertained royalty, celebrities, and thousands of children, Nicki is known for creating inclusive, welcoming events that combine entertainment with education.
All proceeds from the event will support the ongoing work of Anna Kennedy Online, helping to improve understanding, access to services, and quality of life for autistic people and their families. Guests will also have the opportunity to meet Dr Anna Kennedy OBE, founder of the charity, following the event. After the wildlife presentation, attendees will enjoy a buffet at the award-winning Beauvoir Arms, providing a relaxed and friendly space for families to connect, share experiences, and reflect on a memorable afternoon. Dolly Dolittle’s Wildlife Adventure promises to be an inspiring celebration of community, learning, and inclusion, offering fun for all ages while supporting an important cause. The event aims to leave families with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for both wildlife and the autism community. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1982671122700?aff=oddtdtcreator
When we talk about male grooming, most men immediately think of haircuts, beard trims, maybe the occasional wet shave if they’re feeling indulgent. Walk down any British high street and you’ll see it for yourself: slick barbershops offering everything from skin fades to hot towel shaves, nose waxing, ear hair removal and precision beard sculpting. Male grooming is no longer niche — it’s big business.
Men struggle with brows .
What’s perhaps less talked about is how many men are now quietly crossing the threshold into what were once considered female-only beauty spaces. Over the last decade, men have made up around a third of beauty salon clientele — and in some areas, even more. The reasons vary. For some, it’s confidence. For others, it’s professionalism. And for many, it’s simply about holding the hands of time back just a little.
Grooming isn’t about vanity. It’s about maintenance. If your home starts to look tired, you redecorate. If the roof needs fixing, you repair it. No one judges that. Caring for your face, hair and skin should be viewed in exactly the same way.
The Silent Ageing Culprit: Eyebrows
One of the most overlooked areas when it comes to male ageing is the eyebrows. Men often obsess over hair loss on the head while completely ignoring what’s happening just above the eyes.
Here’s the truth: eyebrows age us. They thin, lose definition, grow unruly, curl unpredictably, and sometimes disappear in patches altogether. Even the thickest brows aren’t immune. Over time they can begin to resemble overgrown caterpillars — or worse, stray hairy bugs with a mind of their own.
Waxing, threading and tinting can help, of course, but they require constant upkeep and the results can be inconsistent. For many men, especially as we get older, it becomes a losing battle.
I should know.
Turning sixty-five, my own eyebrows had become a point of quiet frustration. One brow was noticeably thinner and weaker than the other. The “good” one, meanwhile, had developed those wiry, curling hairs that refuse to lie flat no matter how much trimming you do. I found myself plucking constantly between salon visits — and yes, occasionally filling them in with a brow pen. Let’s be honest: if you’re doing that in secret, something isn’t working.
Asking for Advice (and Taking the Leap)
So I did what I always advise others to do — I asked a professional. My dear friend and beauty PR powerhouse Abby Knight listened patiently and then made a suggestion that, I’ll admit, made me pause.
She recommended a visit to Everlasting Salon, to see eyebrow specialist and known in the business as “ The beauty enhancer” Sylwia Kucharska.
SylwiaKucharska beauty expert
Now, gentlemen, if the idea of walking into a salon like this makes you nervous, let me put you at ease immediately. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcome, respected and completely safe. The team are highly trained, discreet and genuinely sensitive to men who may feel a little out of their comfort zone. There’s no judgement — just professionalism.
Sylwia herself was an absolute joy. Warm, reassuring, and empathetic by the bucket load, she listened carefully as I explained my eyebrow woes. Within minutes, she made me feel less like a client and more like an old friend.
Her recommendation? Microblading.
Microblading: Not What You Think
At the mention of microblading, I’ll be honest — alarm bells rang. Images flashed through my mind of overly dark, overly sharp brows I’d seen on some men, better suited to drag performance than everyday life. No offence intended — just not my look.
Sylwia laughed. “Not at all,” she said. “This is completely different.”
She explained that microblading is a semi-permanent eyebrow treatment designed to create the illusion of fuller, natural brows using ultra-fine, hair-like strokes. The pigment is deposited just beneath the surface of the skin with a handheld tool made up of tiny needles, mimicking real hair growth rather than solid blocks of colour.
Masculine. Subtle. Natural.
Beautiful Everlasting Salon .
My first appointment was simply a consultation and patch test to ensure I wasn’t allergic to the pigment — something I strongly advise everyone to do. No pressure, no hard sell.
The Treatment Experience
A few weeks later, I returned — this time genuinely excited. What struck me most was that Sylwia seemed just as invested in the result as I was. She asked if I was nervous, but with such calm, caring hands, it was impossible to be.
Taking the leap in the very capable hands of SylwiaKucharska
Before the treatment begins, the brows are carefully mapped and shaped to suit the face. I’ll admit, this moment nearly gave me cold feet. The outline looked strong — too strong, I worried. But I was reassured that this was just a guide, not the finished look.
A numbing cream was applied to minimise discomfort, and the full process — including consultation and shaping — took around two hours. The sensation? Mild at worst. At no point was I uncomfortable, and the care taken throughout was exceptional.
Natural looking brows at Everlasting Salon
When I first looked in the mirror, I liked them immediately — though I did worry the colour appeared a little warm. Sylwia calmly explained that this is normal and would soften as the skin healed. She was right. Over the following days, the tone settled beautifully into my natural colouring.
The Results — and the Reality
Despite having written about almost every treatment under the sun, I still had a wobble later that day. Was it too much? Had I overdone it?
But as the days passed, the brows softened, healed and blended seamlessly. The result? Brows that look youthful, thicker, and — most importantly — entirely believable.
Sylwia provided clear aftercare advice. Avoiding the gym for a week was a shock (I won’t lie), but everything else was common sense and easy to follow.
I’ll return in four weeks for a check and possible top-up, but already I’m thrilled. My eyebrows no longer betray my age. They frame my face properly again, without shouting for attention.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a man who’s noticed thinning, uneven or ageing brows and quietly wondered if there’s a solution — there is. And it doesn’t have to look obvious, artificial or un-masculine.
Looking after yourself isn’t vanity. It’s self-respect.
And sometimes, the smallest changes make the biggest difference.
I’ll be honest: I’m sceptical by nature. Years of beauty launches, miracle cures and “life-changing” supplements have taught me to raise an eyebrow before I reach for my wallet. So when a jar of GrowPro Yummy Gummies from Watermans landed on my desk promising stronger hair, healthier skin and better nails — all sugar-free and vegan — I decided to put them to the test properly. No hype. Just habit, patience and a very British dose of realism.
Hair, for many of us, is emotional territory. Thinning, shedding, dryness or loss of volume can quietly knock confidence, particularly as we age or go through hormonal changes. I’ve spoken to countless men and women who feel it’s something they’re meant to accept in silence. What intrigued me about these gummies wasn’t just the glossy marketing, but the ingredient list: biotin, MSM, zinc, bamboo and horsetail extracts, plus a full alphabet of vitamins including A, C, D3 and E. This wasn’t fairy dust — it was nutrition.
The ritual itself is simple: two mixed-berry gummies a day. They’re genuinely pleasant (which matters — nobody wants to choke down a daily chore), and unlike many supplements, there’s no sugary aftertaste or artificial guilt. Sugar-free, gluten-free and cruelty-free, they slot easily into real life rather than demanding a personality transplant.
After the first month, the most noticeable change wasn’t dramatic regrowth — and that’s important to say. Hair health is a long game. What I did notice was less shedding in the shower and hair that felt stronger when styling. By month two, my hairdresser commented on texture and condition without prompting, which is always the most convincing feedback. There was also an unexpected bonus: my nails, usually prone to splitting, were noticeably tougher, and my skin looked calmer and more even.
What sets GrowPro Gummies apart is how thoughtfully they’re formulated. Biotin and MSM support keratin production, zinc helps maintain scalp balance, and bamboo and horsetail extracts provide silica — essential for strength and shine. This is backed by trichologists who consistently stress that hair growth starts internally. You can use the best shampoo in the world, but if your body lacks the building blocks, progress will be limited.
Watermans positions these gummies as particularly supportive for women experiencing menopause- or postpartum-related thinning, but the truth is they’re effective for anyone wanting to improve overall hair vitality. Men included. There’s nothing gendered or gimmicky here — just solid, science-backed nutrition.
The takeaway? These gummies won’t give you a full mane overnight, and anyone claiming that is selling fantasy. What they do offer is something far more valuable: consistency, nourishment and gradual, visible improvement. Hair that feels healthier. Nails that don’t snap. Skin that looks more awake.
In a crowded market of empty promises, GrowPro Yummy Gummies feel refreshingly grounded. Not magic — but meaningful. And sometimes, that’s exactly what real confidence grows from. Try with the Waterman’s shampoo and Energiser .
2Shades is delighted to announce the National Union of Professional Foster Cares as a sponsor of The Autism Hero Awards .
2Shades is delighted to announce the National Union of Professional Foster Carers (NUPFC) as a sponsor of this year’s Autism Hero Awards, supporting the Parent / Carer of the Year category.
The NUPFC is the only government-certified trade union in the UK dedicated exclusively to supporting foster carers, kinship carers, special guardians, and adopters. Its mission is clear: to ensure carers are informed, protected, and properly supported as they provide care for some of the most vulnerable children in society.
What sets the NUPFC apart is its depth of lived experience. Its specialist caseworkers — available 365 days a year — include current and former foster carers alongside retired social workers. This hands-on understanding allows the organisation to offer practical, empathetic guidance rooted in real-world challenges. A strong legal team further ensures members are never left navigating complex systems alone.
Caring for children who have experienced emotional harm or additional challenges can be demanding and emotionally complex. The NUPFC works closely with professionals around each child, helping to ensure carers — and in turn, the children themselves — receive the support, advocacy, and understanding they deserve.
Many children within the care system are autistic, while many others remain undiagnosed. The NUPFC actively promotes early diagnosis, recognising that timely understanding can make a profound difference to a child’s wellbeing, access to support, and long-term outcomes.
By sponsoring the Parent / Carer of the Year category at the Autism Hero Awards, the NUPFC is shining a light on the resilience, commitment, and quiet heroism of carers. This partnership not only celebrates individual achievement but also raises wider awareness of autism and caring within professional circles and among key decision-makers.
Robin Findlay, Founder and General Secretary of the National Union of Professional Foster Carers, said:
“Anna Kennedy’s tireless campaigning continues to raise awareness of the many strengths, talents, and contributions that autistic people bring to our communities. We are proud to support the Autism Hero Awards and to stand alongside Anna Kennedy Online in encouraging autistic people, and their parents and carers, to seek support when needed, build confidence, and achieve great things.”
Anna Kennedy OBE added:
“We are absolutely delighted to welcome the National Union of Professional Foster Carers as sponsors of the Autism Hero Awards. Their commitment to carers and families aligns closely with our values, and we look forward to working together to celebrate autistic individuals and recognise the dedication of those who support them every day.”
Heidi Gammon, Agony Aunt, Answers Your Valentine’s Questions
Love, desire, doubt, and the courage to speak honestly — Valentine’s Day has a way of stirring emotions we sometimes keep carefully tucked away. Whether you’re navigating friendship, long-term relationships, new love, or loneliness, these questions remind us that matters of the heart are rarely straightforward.
You can hear Heidi Gammon, alongside Steven Smith and Aston Avery, discussing these real-life dilemmas on Gateway Radio on February 10th at 10am, with the full show available to catch up on YouTube shortly after.
Dear Heidi,
I hope you are well.
My best friend of twelve years is gay. We’ve known each other since high school, and his sexuality has never been an issue for me or my family — we love him unconditionally. Over the years he’s had various partners, but nothing serious.
Two months ago, after we’d been drinking, he kissed me and told me he loved me. I honestly don’t know why I let it happen. It stopped there, and we’ve never spoken about it since.
Looking back, I think I may have been in denial. He’s always had a crush on me, and I’m now worried that this might be stopping him from meeting someone who can truly return his feelings. There is no chance of it being reciprocal, but I feel I need to talk to him — for both our sakes. What should I say?
All my love,
Adam, Brentwood
Dear Adam,
Thank you for trusting me with something so sensitive.
What stands out most here is how much care and respect you have for your friend — and that matters. Love doesn’t always fit neatly into boxes, and sometimes unspoken feelings linger quietly until they surface in unexpected ways.
You didn’t do anything wrong by freezing in the moment. Alcohol lowers boundaries, but it doesn’t create feelings that weren’t already there. What does matter is what you do next.
Avoiding the conversation protects neither of you. The kindest thing you can do is speak honestly and gently. Choose a calm moment and tell him that you value him deeply, but that your feelings are firmly platonic. Reassure him that your friendship matters and that you don’t want him holding onto hope that prevents him from finding someone who can fully return his love.
It may feel awkward — but clarity is an act of love too. You’re the best Heidi
Dear Heidi,
My boyfriend of four years really looks forward to Valentine’s Day. Each year he buys me gifts from Ann Summers and similar places. While he always takes me out to dinner, the evening usually ends with him wanting to dress up, role-play, and act out fantasies.
I think our relationship is loving and generally good. I do go along with some dressing up at times, but I feel like I’m not giving him what he really wants — and if I’m honest, the focus on “dress-up time” at Valentine’s is actually off-putting for me.
What can I do? Stella Southend
Dear Stella
Long-term relationships often stumble when desire becomes an expectation rather than a shared experience.
Your boyfriend’s enthusiasm isn’t wrong — but your discomfort isn’t either. Valentine’s Day has somehow become loaded with pressure, particularly around sex and fantasy, when it should be about connection.
This isn’t about you failing him. It’s about mismatched expectations. The answer lies in conversation, not performance. Try saying something like: “I love being close to you, but when dressing up becomes the focus, I feel pressured rather than desired.”
Intimacy thrives when both partners feel safe and excited — not obliged. If you can’t meet in the middle, it’s worth asking whether this dynamic works for you long term.
Hi Heidi,
I love your column.
My mum is 55 and looks great. My dad left when I was 12, and she hasn’t really met anyone since. I’m 19 now and leaving home in September, and I’d love for her to meet someone.
She insists she’s fine and tells me to leave it, but I worry about her being lonely. There’s a man who works for the council who’s been to the flat a few times to do jobs. She always smiles at him and makes him a cup of tea. He’s divorced and around her age.
Should I try to set them up? I sometimes see him at my gym.
Thanks, Darren, Basildon
Dear Darren,
Your concern for your mum is genuinely touching — but tread carefully.
Loneliness looks different at every age, and contentment doesn’t always announce itself loudly. Your mum may truly be at peace with her life as it is, even if it doesn’t look like what you imagine happiness should be.
That said, a gentle nudge is fine — a shove is not. Instead of playing matchmaker, open a conversation. Ask her how she feels about dating now, not what she’s missed in the past.
And one important rule: never involve a third party without consent. If she does express interest in meeting someone, you can mention the council worker — lightly — and then step back.
Let her lead. Love, at any age, deserves dignity.
Dear Heidi,
I’m in my sixties, gay, and single. I don’t like bars or dating apps, and the idea of going on a date makes me feel physically sick.
What can I do?
Mike, Romford
Dear Mike,
You are far from alone — and nothing is “wrong” with you.
Dating culture can feel exhausting, performative, and frankly brutal, especially if bars and apps don’t suit your personality. The good news? They’re not the only doors into connection.
Consider spaces built around shared interests rather than romance: walking groups, book clubs, volunteering, community classes, or LGBTQ+ social groups that aren’t centred on nightlife.
Connection grows more naturally when the focus isn’t dating but being. And remember — companionship doesn’t always begin with fireworks. Sometimes it begins with comfort.
Love Heidi
Dear Heidi,
I’m taking my new girlfriend out for our first Valentine’s Day together. I try to be a good boyfriend — I open doors, pick her up, and help out whenever she needs something done at her place.
But I’m honestly terrible at the romantic side. Flowers, yes — but beyond that, I’m stuck. What can I do to make Valentine’s Day feel truly special?
Eric, Brighton
Dear Eric,
You may not realise it, but you’re already doing many things right.
Romance isn’t about grand gestures or perfect scripts. It’s about thoughtfulness. The most memorable Valentine’s moments are rarely expensive — they’re personal.
Think about her. What makes her feel seen? A handwritten note. A playlist. A meal you cook yourself. A walk somewhere meaningful. Even saying, “I’m nervous because I really care” can be incredibly romantic.
Romance isn’t performance — it’s intention.
Heidi
Hello Heidi,
My husband and I have been married for twelve years. Recently, he suggested spicing things up by having a threesome. He says he doesn’t mind whether it’s with a man or a woman.
If I’m honest, the idea does appeal to me — but I’m scared it could either strengthen our marriage or completely ruin it.
Are there ground rules I should put in place? Or is this a bad idea altogether? I’ve told him I need time to think about it.
Anonymous
Dear Anonymous,
I’m glad you didn’t rush into an answer.
A threesome is not just a sexual experience — it’s an emotional one, and once a third person enters the picture, there’s no “undo” button.
Before discussing rules, ask deeper questions. Why does your husband want this? What does it represent for him — novelty, validation, curiosity? And equally important: what does it represent for you?
If you decide to explore it, boundaries are essential: who, when, emotional limits, aftercare, and the right to stop at any time — even at the last minute.
But if your gut says “this might damage us,” listen to it. Desire should never come at the cost of safety or trust.
I just have to share something new and genuinely exciting — and trust me, you absolutely do not have to be vegan to enjoy this plant-based treat. I first tried it at the Vegan Women’s Club, casually spooned it onto something sweet, and by the end of the evening I was already plotting how to get more. Yes… vegan honey.
Before you ask — “Tell em about the honey mummy !” — let me say this straight away: this is a sexy little number, and once you try it, you’ll understand exactly what I mean. Nothing to do with the the Honey Monster or the serial.
Bee Kind is a newly launched, plant-based alternative to honey that’s already creating serious buzz around the world. Crafted in small batches, Bee Kind is made from pine needles using traditional infusion methods that recreate the taste, sweetness, and mouthfeel of conventional honey — without harming a single bee. And astonishingly, it’s virtually indistinguishable from the real thing.
Available in Golden (Original), Creamed, and Horopito Chilli, Bee Kind delivers something for every palate. The Golden variety offers that familiar, comforting honey flavour we all know and love. The Creamed version has the same authentic taste but with a smooth, spreadable texture that feels luxuriously indulgent on toast or stirred through yoghurt. Then there’s the Horopito Chilli — a quietly confident blend of sweetness with a gentle, warming peppery kick inspired by the New Zealand pepper tree. It’s bold, unexpected, and utterly addictive.
What makes Bee Kind even more fascinating is its use of pine needles — an ingredient that has been consumed for centuries across many cultures and historically valued for its naturally occurring compounds. Bee Kind cleverly reimagines this heritage ingredient, transforming it into a modern, ethical alternative that feels both innovative and rooted in tradition.
There’s also a deeper story here. Commercial bee production often involves practices that place enormous stress on bees and are increasingly recognised as harmful. Bee Kind removes bees from the production process entirely, offering a more compassionate choice for those who want to enjoy honey-like sweetness without contributing to exploitation.
Despite being a recent launch, Bee Kind is already making serious waves internationally. Reviews have been glowing, and orders are coming in from as far afield as Israel, Dubai, and Belgium — clear proof that demand for thoughtful, plant-based alternatives is no longer niche but truly global.
Whether you’re vegan, plant-curious, or simply someone who appreciates good food made with integrity, Bee Kind is one of those discoveries that feels exciting to share. It’s indulgent without guilt, familiar yet refreshingly new — and once you’ve tried it, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.
Bee Kind is available now via the Vegan Women’s Club, with an exclusive and generous discount for members. Consider yourself warned: one taste, and you may never look at honey the same way again. 🍯✨
The Animal Bond Award at the Autism Hero Awards, organised by Anna Kennedy Online, is one of the most heart-warming and meaningful categories in the programme. It celebrates the profound and often life-changing relationships between animals and autistic individuals, shining a light on how these unique bonds enrich lives in extraordinary ways.
For many autistic people, animals provide comfort without judgement, routine without pressure, and companionship without expectation. Whether it is a loyal dog offering emotional regulation, a cat providing quiet reassurance, or another cherished animal companion helping to reduce anxiety and build confidence, these relationships can be transformational. The Animal Bond Award recognises those stories that demonstrate empathy, connection, and mutual understanding between humans and animals.
This special category is judged by a compassionate and experienced panel, including pet rescue star Wendy Turner Webster, alongside model and actress Victoria Featherstone Peace, and the talented Tess Eagle Swan who brings insight and authenticity to the judging process as ambassador of the charity. and her idea to add the category .
Tess with Kratu
Together, they celebrate stories that remind us how powerful kindness, trust, and unconditional love can be—proving that sometimes the strongest bonds are formed without words.
Please Nominate and come join us on the night the details below
My last two dining experiences began with a maître d’ who seemed to have stepped straight out of a sitcom, delivering the inevitable line — “Have you booked?” — in a tone that somehow manages to feel both accusatory and theatrical. Honestly, it makes me want to scream, “If I had booked, I would have told you!” It’s a small moment, but it can instantly drain the anticipation from what should be a relaxed and enjoyable evening out.
Thankfully, any lingering irritation melted away entirely when I arrived at 123 Browns. It isn’t the easiest place to find, but trust me — it is absolutely worth the search. Tucked away like a secret waiting to be discovered, this intimate yet beautifully curated venue feels calm, thoughtful, and quietly confident. From the moment you step inside, there is a sense that this is a place created with care. The space is stylish without being showy, warm without being overbearing, and there is also a charming outdoor area that feels perfect for long conversations and unhurried evenings.
Specialising in plant-based cuisine, 123 Browns proves — emphatically — that vegan dining can be indulgent, creative, and deeply satisfying. This is not food that relies on novelty or gimmicks; it is food that speaks for itself. The service plays a huge part in setting the tone. With only two members of staff working, the experience felt remarkably seamless. From the outset, we were treated less like customers and more like welcome guests. The team took time to explain the menu clearly and enthusiastically, answering questions with genuine warmth. My friend’s rather complex dietary requirements were handled with complete ease, and the wine and food recommendations were thoughtful, informed, and delivered without even a hint of judgement or impatience.
The food itself was outstanding. Every dish felt carefully considered, beautifully presented, and packed with flavour. This is plant-based cooking that doesn’t attempt to imitate meat unnecessarily, but instead celebrates texture, balance, and freshness. The seasoning was confident without being heavy-handed, allowing individual ingredients to shine. If you love sushi, the plant-based sushi here is nothing short of divine — fresh, inventive, and genuinely memorable. Each bite felt clean, vibrant, and indulgent in equal measure. My only regret is that I didn’t order more savoury dishes before sensibly — or foolishly — leaving room for dessert.
And then there was the dessert. The matcha cheesecake deserves its own paragraph, possibly its own fan club. It may genuinely be the dessert of the century. Silky smooth and perfectly balanced, it was indulgent without ever feeling heavy. The matcha flavour was subtle rather than overpowering, lending depth and elegance rather than bitterness. I had two. Yes, two. Naughty? Absolutely. Worth it? Without question.
What truly sets 123 Browns apart, however, is its atmosphere. There is a calm, welcoming energy that makes you feel instantly at ease — almost like coming home. It feels like a safe, comforting space where you are encouraged to slow down, be present, and enjoy food that has clearly been prepared with intention and care. Honestly, just go. It is a treat in every sense, and once you have been, you will already be planning your return.
As we approach the end of another eventful year and step into the promise of 2026, I want to begin by wishing every one of you a very Happy Christmas. Whether you celebrate the season quietly, joyfully, or somewhere in between, I hope the coming weeks bring you warmth, connection, and moments of genuine peace. Christmas is a time of reflection as much as celebration, and for me, looking back over 2025 brings both change and gratitude.
One of the biggest changes this year was saying farewell—though never goodbye—to my gorgeous friend and co-founder of 2Shades, Adishiri Chengappa. Many of you will know her as the bright, compassionate, and fiercely driven woman who helped bring this magazine to life. Adishiri has returned to India to study counselling, and I have absolutely no doubt she will become a brilliant one. Her heart, her empathy, and her ability to really listen to people make her an extraordinary human being, and those are precisely the qualities that will make her excel in her new profession.
Although Adishiri is stepping down from the magazine to focus on her studies, she remains a lifelong friend—both to 2Shades and to me personally. Our bond is permanent, and her contribution to the magazine will always be part of its foundations. Behind the scenes, we are now in discussions with a new partner who will join the 2Shades family and help carry the torch forward.
For those of you who may be newer readers, let me say this clearly: 2Shades has never been “just” an LGBTQ+ magazine. From day one, we envisioned a vibrant, inclusive space—a place for everyone. A magazine that is joyful yet unafraid; stylish yet unfiltered; a platform for voices that deserve to be heard. We speak our minds, we cover subjects that others shy away from, and we stand firmly by our philosophy that representation and honesty matter.
Over the years, we’ve covered everything from fashion, art, and entertainment to some of the most difficult and deeply important topics affecting people today. We have reported on male rape, mental health, identity, domestic violence, addiction, grief, and more. The world is multifaceted, and so are the people in it; 2Shades aims to reflect that complexity.
A huge part of what makes this magazine special is our remarkable team of columnists. Our Agony Aunt, Heidi Gammon, continues to grow in popularity, offering advice with wit, warmth, and plain-spoken honesty. Dr Anna Kennedy OBE brings vital insight, advocacy, and compassion through her work in autism awareness and support. Our beauty expert Clare McSweeney adds glamour, empowerment, and the kind of practical advice that boosts confidence. And this year we welcomed Richard Andrews, who’s new “Money Matters” column is already proving invaluable to readers navigating finances during turbulent times.
Clare 2Shades columnist with Aston Avery she is on Gateway every month .
All of them are thriving on social media, and their readership continues to soar—a testament to the authenticity and relevance they bring.
What makes all of this even more remarkable is that the magazine still has no sponsors. I work entirely for free, as do many involved. And we do it because we believe in 2Shades, in its purpose, and in the community surrounding it. But as we look ahead to the future—and to the possibility of expanding globally—sponsors and advertisers will eventually be essential. If you’ve enjoyed the work we’ve done, if the magazine has informed, entertained, or supported you in any way, then please help us grow by spreading the word. Share the link, recommend us, tell people who we are and what we stand for. That simple act makes a world of difference.
And speaking of difference: there is something else I’d like to ask this Christmas.
If you feel moved to show appreciation for the magazine’s work this year, please consider donating to Anna Kennedy Online, a charity that means an incredible amount to me personally. Not only is Anna a dear friend, but I am honoured to have been a patron of her autism charity for nearly twelve years—something I remain immensely proud of. The work AKO does is life-changing for autistic children, adults, and families across the UK. If you would like to donate, the details are below; even the smallest contribution helps.
Dr Anna Kennedy OBE with me.
Looking ahead, my biggest hope is that 2026 will be the year 2Shadesbecomes a global success. A huge portion of our readership already comes from the United States and Australia, which shows that our message resonates far beyond the UK. We speak to universal experiences—identity, struggle, connection, joy, and truth. These things transcend borders.
And that brings me to my wish for 2026, a simple yet powerful one: More empathy. More understanding. More respect.
We live in an increasingly polarised world, where disagreement is seen as a personal attack and differing opinions are met with hostility rather than curiosity. One of the wisest things I heard this year came from Peter Tatchell at the screening of “Legendary Children: All of Them Queer.” He said:
“By going into other places and organisations and being your authentic self, making a positive difference, people will start to change their views.”
That stayed with me, because it reminds us that real progress rarely comes from shouting or fighting—it comes from presence, compassion, and consistency.
Yet too often, respect is missing from the smallest everyday interactions. I’ll give you an example. I have not eaten red meat or pork for 49 years. It’s part of who I am. I don’t need to explain why; it doesn’t need to be debated. Yet more times than I can count, I’ve sat down to a meal only to be told, “Oh, just scrape it off,” as if my boundary were an inconvenience rather than something worthy of respect.
It’s such a small thing, but small things matter. Empathy shows itself in the details. Most people, of course, are thoughtful and considerate—but we all know others who refuse to see beyond their own beliefs. They hold strong opinions on everything yet become instantly outraged if you question theirs. They expect understanding but rarely offer it in return.
And then there are those who appear addicted to drama—who cannot be content unless they are creating conflict or turning an event into something about them. Rather than bringing joy, talent, or positive energy to a gathering, they bring chaos. It is, in my opinion, a kind of addiction in itself. A hunger for attention that stifles empathy and dims the light for everyone else. As such addiction is an illness and I have empathy there. However when an illness is contagious or has a knock on effect on your mental health you need to walk away in the end.
Imagine how different the world could be if empathy were something we practised as naturally as breathing. If instead of reacting, we paused. Instead of judging, we listened. Instead of assuming, we asked. If 2026 could bring even a fraction more understanding into everyday life, what a transformation we would see.
So as we wrap presents, raise glasses, and welcome the new year, my message is this: Celebrate with kindness. Speak with honesty. Live authentically. Respect differences—not just the ones that are easy, but the ones that challenge you. And above all, look for ways to make someone else’s world a little better.
To every reader, supporter, contributor, and friend of 2Shades: thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to a beautiful Christmas, a hopeful New Year, and a 2026 filled with courage, connection, and compassion.
2Shades Magazine 