Marlow has long been synonymous with rowing. For many residents, the sight of eights gliding along the Thames is simply part of everyday life. For me, however, rowing became much more than a local pastime. Several years ago, I made the decision to step away from my career in financial services and commit fully to rowing for Leander Club. For three years, my life revolved around training, racing and pursuing performance at the highest level possible. People often ask whether m

The concept of FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) has attracted growing attention in recent years. While the idea of leaving work decades before the traditional retirement age sounds appealing, FIRE is really about something much more valuable: having choices. Financial independence means reaching a point where your investments, pensions and savings can support your lifestyle without you being entirely dependent on employment income. For some, that may mean retiring

By Sian Hinton-Woodier FPFS, Amber River Premier Most people do not make bad financial decisions. In fact, the biggest issue is often something much quieter. Putting things off. Whether it is reviewing pensions, sorting savings, or making important financial decisions, it is very common to think: “I’ll deal with it later.” At the time, it feels harmless. Life is busy, there are always more immediate priorities, and finances can often feel complex or overwhelming. But over tim

Many people in our lovely little town are doing the right things financially – working hard, saving where they can – yet still feel unsure whether they’re making the most of their money, planning effectively for the future, or protecting what matters most. That uncertainty is completely understandable. Financial decisions today are rarely straightforward. We’re living longer, juggling competing priorities, and trying to plan ahead in a world that doesn’t always feel predictab