issue twenty seven july/august twenty-sixteen
Matt Damon
BOURNE IS BACK! HOLLYWOOD SUPERSTAR REVISTS HIS MOST FAMOUS ROLE
Alfresco Dining KENTS
BEST OUTDOOR EATERIES
The Real Brexiters TALES
FORM EXPAT TRAVEL BLOGGERS
Wheels & Fins
JOSS BAY'S FAB FEST
IS BACK
Make the most,
of the wonderful coast Extend your stay, book a room at one of our wonderful hotels. The Pegwell Bay Hotel & The Oak Hotel Ramsgate.
www.thorleytaverns.co.uk | @thorleytaverns | Facebook: ThorleyTaverns
[welcome ]
july/august twenty-sixteen
ISSUE TWENTY SEVEN
Hello and welcome to our second Summer edition of 2016. It’s been a decent one as far as the weather goes, but the less said about politics or football the better eh? At least Murray won Wimbledon again! One thing you can always rely on to hit just the right spot is your regular fill of East Kent Lifestyle. As it’s the summer hols we’ve not only got our usual East Kent Cycle Trail and Walk, but we’ve also crammed in one of the new initiatives from “Active Ramsgate” – one of two new canoe routes starting in the popular East Kent coastal town. The route goes from Ramsgate Main Sands to the slipway at Viking Bay in Broadstairs – ideal for checking out the glorious white cliffs and stunning seascape between the two Thanet towns Keeping it outdoors, we’ve been out to dine “alfresco” this summer so check out our lunch time reviews of The Minnis, overlooking the magnificent Minnis Bay near Birchington, and we take tea on the terrace at one of our favourite “hidden gems” The Secret Garden at Mersham-le-hatch, near Maidstone. If you’re planning something different for your summer hols this year then we’ve got a treat for you our travel editor, Jaillan Yehia has rounded up some guest travel blogger’s write ups from every continent on the globe this issue – check out their work on pages 71-75. With summer still in bloom we’ve got some top tips on making that tatty bunch of flowers from the supermarket look fit for Elton John’s boudoir from Faversham flower-arranging phenom, Julie Davies on page 32. We also have plenty more for you to get your teeth into this issue from news to reviews & interviews, days out, events, fashion, culture, and celebrity. When you’ve finished that little lot sit back and enjoy the summer until the next edition folks! Pete Nichols, Publishing Director
4
EAST KENT LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
Saturday 9 July to Sunday 25 September 2016 The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge, High Street, Canterbury www.thebeaney.co.uk
P PAYLEASE YOU WHA CAN T
[contents ]
32
dundeness details
26
wheels & fins
WHAT’S INSIDE...
food & drink
57 Afternoon Tea at Eastwell Manor 58 Curiously Kentish 60 Alfresco Dining at The Minnis 64 Alfresco Dining at The Secret Garden 66 Lee Behan's Chicken Schnitzel Recipe 69 Dev’s Dosai Recipe
homes & interiors
36 Kitchen & Remodelling Tips 38 Papillon Interiors 40 Westbay Court
health & beauty
62 Summer Time Treats 87 Keep your pets cool this Summer 89 Fella’s Festival Grooming Guide
fashion
76 Whitefriars Fashion
6
47
matt damon
[contents ]
36
58
curiously kentish
remodelling
regulars & features 10 12 21 24 30 34 47 96 98
East Kent News Fabulous Finds Q&A with Mr Turrloo Parrett Folkestone Quarterhouse Gardner Croft Supermarket Flower Challenge Matt Damon What’s Occurring East Kent Business
64
alfresco dining
days out 14 16 18 20 22 26 31 32 51
East Kent Walks East Kent Canoe Trail East Kent Cycle Trail Grayson Perry at the Beany Margate Bookie Litfest Wheels & Fins Powell-Cotton Museum Dungeness Details Leas Cliff Hall
education 91 93 94 95
71
the real brexiters
St Lawrence College Kent College Junior School St Edmund’s School The Kent Collective
travel
71 EKL Travel Special: “The Real Life Brexit Bunch” 7
B es p o k e w o th a t f it o n r k to p s to p Fitted in one no m ess or d da y, with emolition Over 60 colo choo se from urs to Installed by professional our own fitters Friendly advi home consuclte & free ation We also fit kitchen door new s! Visit our showroom, or call to book book aa free home consultation, and we’ll we’ll show you how easy it is to transform transform your kitchen with our granite, quartz quartz or recycled glass worktops.
Call now 01622 297371
Maidstone Showroom: Newnham Court Shopping Village, Bearsted Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 5LH Open 10.00am – 5.00pm Mon to Sat – 10.30am – 4.30pm Sun www.granitetransformations.co.uk/maidstone
[publication information ]
psapublishing East Kent Lifestyle magazine published by PSA Publishing Barley House, Sopers Road, Cuffley, Herts EN6 4RY tel: 01707 878026 email: sales@psapublishing.co.uk www.psapublishing.co.uk
Publishing Director
Creative Director
Pete Nichols pete@psapublishing.co.uk
Stuart Bennett stuart@bainesdesign.co.uk
Sales Executive
Managing Director
Jo Costello sales@psapublishing.co.uk
Andrew Bennett andrew@bainesdesign.co.uk
Travel Editor
Distribution
Jaillan Yehia hello@savoirthere.com
www.fellahair.com
MEN HAVE 3 TYPES OF HAIRSTYLES:
PARTED, UN-PARTED & DEPARTED!
Sam Holliday Mary Jones
Contributors Jaillan Yehia, Lee Behan,Vicky King, Pete Nichols, Explore Kent, Bobby Gordon, Whitefriars, Melody Janine Knell, Dev Biswal, Renee Maguire, Sarah Whelband, Melissa Gabbot, Hayley Fenn, Lorna Morris
Contributing Photographers Jaillan Yehia, Lee Behan, Jo Doran, Explore Kent, Pete Nichols, Dave Melmoth. For all advertising enquiries please contact sales on 01707 878 026
The publisher does not accept any responsibility for the content of advertisements or contributed editorial in this magazine. Opinions expressed editorially are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher and no responsibility is accepted for loss, damage or injury incurred as a result of opinions, advice or comment.
HOOK US UP / 01227 780382 19 The Borough Canterbury Kent CT1 2DR
Mon to Wed Thur Fri Sat
9.30am - 6.00pm 9.30am - 7.00pm 9.00am - 7.00pm 9.00am - 5.00pm
No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission. Š Copyright 2014. No part of East Kent Lifestyle can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the prior written consent of the publishers. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.
FOLLOW US
brand identity designed by www.kre-ativ.com
www.bainesdesign.co.uk 01707 876555 Printed on environmentally friendly paper A67841 9
[news ]
east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east ken
EXCLUSIVE NEW CANOE ROUTES LAUNCHED IN RAMSGATE ACTIVE RAMSGATE INITIATIVE GIVES TWO EXCLUSIVE ROUTES – ONE GUIDED, ONE SELF-GUIDED THROUGH SOME OF THE MOST IMPRESSIVE SCENERY IN KENT
A Ramsgate Town Council regeneration initiative, Active Ramsgate, has launched two canoe trails encouraging canoeists to come to the area and experience Ramsgate from a completely new perspective. The initiative, project managed by Explore Kent, is designed to support economic regeneration by promoting the Ramsgate area through its outdoor activities, and the launch of the canoe trails will take canoeists of all abilities right along the Kent coastline as well as through one of the UK’s most important protected bird sites – Pegwell Bay. The guide is free to download from the Active Ramsgate website – www.ramsgatetown.org/activeramsgate and includes the route directions, details on how to get in touch with the route organisers and also highlights various points of interests along the route. In addition, the canoe route is also supported by the Active Ramsgate ambassador, Olympic Gold Medal winner, skeleton athlete Lizzy Yarnold. Lizzy Yarnold said of the canoe trails: “I love the idea of taking to the water and canoeing your way around the fantastic
scenery in Ramsgate. You’ll get to see the wildlife from a completely new perspective and it is great that a scheme which will improve regeneration will also help to encourage people to get active.” For more information, visit www.ramsgatetown.org/ activeramsgate, or search for Ramsgate Town on Facebook and Twitter.
CANTERBURY COLLEGE TO LOSE 116 JOBS IN EAST KENT COLLEGE MERGER Staff at Canterbury College have been warned that some 116 jobs are likely to be slashed in a bid to balance the books.
“The college must generate sufficient cash to service its loans and repay the capital that is due.”
The cash-strapped college’s affairs will be overseen by a single senior management team as it merges with East Kent College (EKC).
Across the Further Education sector pay costs as a percentage of income were 63.2 per cent in 2014-15 and are expected to be similar for 2015-16.
EKC’s existing principal Graham Razey will take over as acting head of both, tasked with digging Canterbury College out of its forecast operational deficit of more than £2.2m.
However, Canterbury College is currently running at 71.9 per cent.
The move by the new management team follows the intervention of the Skills Funding Agency, which has agreed a recovery plan with the College and 76 new jobs are being created as a result of the merger, resulting in a net loss of 40 posts. Mr Razey said: “The financial situation, and the deficit, needs to be urgently addressed for 2016-17 and beyond, in order to secure the future of the College and the services it provides to the local community. “To achieve a balanced budget in 2016-17, and address the ongoing structural deficit, £3,036,000 needs to be saved from the college’s pay costs. 10
Colin Carmichael, chairman of Canterbury College Governors, said: “These measures are designed to future proof the business of the college while ensuring key services and initiatives continue to deliver the highest possible quality for our students, businesses, the wider community and our staff.” The 116 positions at risk will now be the subject of a 45 day consultation.
nt NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS
Jenny tackles italian hills to help children with disabilities A Kent mother of two who took up cycling to help with the pain of arthritic knees is taking on an endurance challenge for the children's charity she works for that will really put the therapy to the test. Jenny Hawkins, 36, from Kings Hill, will cycle 320 miles in just four days through the heat and hills of the Italian lake district to raise money for Tree of Hope, a charity that supports children who need specialist treatment and therapies not available on the NHS. It’s a big undertaking for someone who underwent surgery five years ago after years of pain, only to discover that the cartilage in her knees was depleted because of years of bone on bone wear. Jenny found that cycling was an important part of her recuperation. “For me, cycling is the best form of physio. My knees are good when cycling because I build up muscle that supports the kneecap. It's really beneficial.” Jenny is hoping that people will be generous in their sponsorship and will help her towards her target of raising £2,000 for Tree of Hope. “I work with families that are desperate to help their children but find it so difficult to raise the funds to pay for the treatment, therapy or equipment they need. Although I am there supporting them every day, I wanted to do something extra.” “Money raised for Tree of Hope changes the lives of these children and their families,” says Jenny. I just hope people will be generous and pledge through my JustGiving page and I'll know it’s all going to be worth it.” Jenny flies out to Italy on 3 July and cycles the 320 miles from 5 – 8 July. To sponsor Jenny, go to her JustGiving page https://www.justgiving. com/fundraising/ theitalianjob16
[news ]
Coastal Path between Ramsgate and Camber Opens The latest part of a 2,700-mile chain of footpaths around the entire English coast has opened in East Kent. The 66-mile (106km) stretch between Ramsgate and Camber in East Sussex provides access to many of the region's coastal landmarks. The £160,000 route, which took five years to complete, is the first section of the England Coastal Path to open in the South East. Natural England hopes to complete the project by 2020. As well as providing unfettered access to England's entire coastline, the project is expected to boost local economies and enable wildlife to recover and flourish. Natural England says the coast path in south-west England is worth £400m a year to the regional economy. A spokesman said the section, providing views of Dover's White Cliffs, involved the co-operation of more than 400 landowners and 150 businesses. It involved a diversion inland of a 30-mile (50km) stretch to avoid the military firing ranges at Lydd and Hythe, in Kent. And in Sandwich, the work has provided public access around the peninsula for the first time. Natural England says research suggests three times as much is spent by visitors to coastal sites as in the countryside. Environment minister Therese Coffey said: "Opening this path will allow more people than ever before to experience this national treasure first-hand." The first section of the nationwide project, which on completion will be the longest continuous coastal walking route in the world, was opened in Dorset in 2012.
11
[fabulous finds ]
Finds
LAYBAG
UPERBAG 618 SOLAR S POWER BACKPACK
Getting away from the stresses of modern life is important of course, but it can still be very annoying to run out of charge or your phone/laptop/tablet while you’re getting away from it all. Enter the Superbag 618 Solar Power Backpack – which not only enables you to carry your essentials, but also helps you charge your mobile devices. Whether you’re taking the family camping, hiking in the mountains, or just a lazy day at the beach – as long as there is sunlight then you’ll never be out of juice. These have to be THE summer must have for the beach-bums and outward bounders among us. This handy inflatable air sofa/ bed comes folded into a tiny over-the-shoulder bag and can be inflated in a matter of seconds. Simply take the laybag out of its carry bag, lay it flat on the ground and then, opening up the air chamber with both arms, pull it horizontally in a rapid motion 2-3 times through the air in front of you. Then just twist the end until taught and clip the attachments at the end together. Not only are they unbelievably comfortable, but they also float in the water as a luxury lilo and even have pockets in the side for your iphone/books etc. When you’re done, deflate, roll up, and pop back in the bag! We seriously cannot recommend these highly enough!
Price: £43.99 Available from www.amazon.co.uk
Price: from £17.00 Available from www.amazon.co.uk
ULTIMATE EARS ROLL 2 – BLUETOOTH SPEAKER If you want to hear some “phat” sounds on the move this summer at a slim price then we can highly recommend the UE Rolls 2 bluetooth speaker. This little beast is a tiny flying saucer of a speaker, with large volume icons, and an ultraportable and funky design. With a more than adequate 100ft range and at under £75 you really can’t fault this unique little masterpiece.Voted the best Bluetooth speaker under £100 of 2016 by What Hi-Fi? Magazine, we certainly wouldn’t disagree. Price: £74.95 Available from John Lewis
12
[fabulous finds ]
CRANES CIDER
Cranes ‘Cider’ is one of this year’s most innovative and refreshing summer drinks. It’s brewed with crushed cranberries and added juices for real flavour and comes in Original Cranberry, Raspberry & Pomegranate and Strawberry & Kiwi. Cranes is low in calories and has just 5g of stevia leaf and sugar (your average high street cider has around 50g of sugar). Light, refreshing, and it won’t damage your beach body – perfect for summer! Price: £1.99 per 275m bottle Available from www.ocado.com
REEN PEOPLE’S G SELF TAN LOTION
In case the weather doesn’t hold up then why not try Green People’ multi award-winning Self Tan Lotion? It’s non-streaky and absorbs quickly with a natural tan developing within 2-3 hours, plus no chemical fake tan smell, just the lovely scent of Sandalwood and Geranium. When applied, DHA (Dehydroxyacetone), derived from sugar, reacts with Amino Acids in the outer layer of the skin to form brown pigments that give the appearance of a natural suntan. Also promotes great skin with anti-wrinkle Rosehip Oil, natural antioxidant action from olive and essential Omega-6 fatty acids. Certifed organic, quick drying and non-greasy.
CORKCICLE TUMBLER
Keep your drink ice-cold for up to nine hours this summer with the superb Corkcicle Tumber. It comes with easy-grip sides a no slide bottom and in an array of stunning finishes. The tumbler is made of high-grade stainless steel, is triple-insulated and vacuum sealed. And don’t go packing this bad-boy away when summer’s through as it can be used to keep hot drinks piping for a full three hours! Versatile, stylish, and extremely useful! Price: From £19.99 Available from www.root7.com
Price: £21 for 200ml Available from www.greenpeople.co.uk
13
[days out ]
RECULVER WALK EAST KENT WALK
THE RECULVER WALK IS A FASCINATING ONE THAT STARTS AT THE WELL KNOWN RECULVER TOWER RUINS – THE VIEWS FROM THE CLIFF TOP STRETCH RIGHT OUT TO SEA – BUT YET THIS WALK TAKES YOU ON SOME WONDERFULLY TRANQUIL FOOTPATHS THAT MAKE YOU FEEL LIKE YOU ARE IN THE HEART OF THE COUNTRYSIDE BUT YET YOU ARE NEAR TO THE SEA. WALK THROUGH FARMLAND, ON SMALL COUNTRY LANES AND STOP TO ADMIRE THE FRESHNESS OF THE WATER THAT FLOWS ALONG THE FIELD STREAMS AT THE BEGINNING OF YOUR WALK.
Beginning your walk This walk is suitable for most abilities and includes footbridges and stiles. Beware that the walk crosses farmland so do be prepared for the changing landscape which can present additional walk challenges such as ploughed fields! Wear suitable clothing and shoes. You may want to stop off in the café at the beginning of your walk for a hearty breakfast in the friendly café situated just a little way along from the start point.
Making your way around… From the car park, turn right past the pub (King Ethelbert Inn). This is a lively pub that is full of life on a summers day! A short distance along the road, turn left and follow the Saxon Shore Way signs to the farm gate ahead. On reaching the farm gate at the end of the track, go through the gap and turn right to follow the path along the field edge. The fields round here are patchwork – look out for birdlife in the hedgerows or even perching on the wires overhead. On reaching the end of the ditch on right, (look how clear the water is) continue ahead across the field. Cross the footbridge and listen to the gurgle of the stream as it meanders down the field – this is therapy at it’s best then 14
continue ahead. On approaching the railway line, go through the gap and turn right on surfaced path to follow under the bridge. Then follow the smooth track that winds it’s way gently upwards to the road. On reaching the road, turn right to walk along the road. Take some time to admire the views of Reculver towers on the right. The road makes it’s way pleasantly past farmland and
[days out ] there is a feeling of a bygone era when walking down this road with only the occasional bike or car passing by. Cross over the railway bridge and head downhill. Look for the footpath sign on the left, just before the farm buildings. Walk past naturally kept verges and look out for signs of birdlife or insects buzzing in the grass and wildflowers that grow here before turning left and walking down a pleasant shaded wooded path. The picturesque path gives way to a driveway to an approaching house, the path takes a turn to the left on the approach which runs beside the stream. See happy signs of childhood as you walk past a treehouse on the stream edge. At the path junction near railway track, turn right to cross footbridge into field. Follow path across the field which grows an abundance of crop. Cross the ditch and follow the path straight on, heading towards church ahead. The church is a beautiful building to walk around – look out for the original visitors book that dates from the 1940’s, a wonderful organ donated by a past parishioner and take in the wonderful atmosphere of this small country church that is clearly the centre of an active community. After you’ve looked round the church, make your way back to the road. Turn left and walk along the road passing the school. Follow the road around to right and look out for a stile on your right at the road junction at the end of Reculver Lane, take the footpath on the right and follow path across the field, crossing a ditch as you head towards a modern housing estate Cross the stile and turn right. Past a row of houses – look out for the open grassy clifftop ahead. Follow the road through the car park. On reaching the end of the surfaced path, continue ahead through the gap past the barrier and follow the cliff top path through Reculver Country Park. This is a perfect place to fly a kite on a suitably windy day, take a picnic
or admire the sea views. There are information boards dotted along the walk here. Your walk finishes in the car park – don’t forget to listen to the sounds of the waves crashing in and soak up the atmosphere in the presence of the formidable Reculver Towers.
Making more of your day After your walk, little ones may like to make use of the park facilities located right next to the car park or alternatively, why not visit the Reculver Towers built in the 12th century and long used as a navigation point for ships at sea. The ruins are provide a breath taking landmark and are well worth a visit.
What Next? For more information on our Summer of Cycling campaign, summer events and outdoor ideas visit Explore Kent.org and discover the great Kentish countryside or follow Explore Kent on social media @explorekent on Twitter & Facebook
LOCATION: Reculver CT6 6SU DISTANCE: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
Start/ Finish
TIME: Allow 2 hours
j
j Reculver Country Park
OS EXPLORER MAP: 150 TERRAIN: Field paths, generally flat PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Take a look at www.kentconnected.org
j
PARKING: Reculver Towers car park (charges apply)
4 miles (6.3km)
±
Gate
Pub
PC Toilets
Country Park 0Miles
0
Km 0
Parking
Take care
0.25 0.5
0.5 Miles
REFRESHMENTS & FACILITIES: Café a short walk from the car park, pub (King Ethelbert Inn) opposite to car park.
1
© Crown Copyright and database right 2014. Ordnance Survey 100019238
15
[days out ]
RAMSGATE TO BROADSTAIRS SELF-GUIDED
CANOE TRAIL
This interesting seascape route of 2 miles begins in the vibrant coastal town of Ramsgate and ends in the traditional and pretty sea-side resort of Broadstairs, taking in the undeniable beauty of the white cliffs of Ramsgate which have been eroded to a smooth surface over years of tidal wear and tear.
The vibrant cosmopolitan town of Ramsgate is the starting point for the canoe trail. Now is the perfect time to explore this pretty coastal town taking in Ramsgate Main Sands, the marina and perhaps tea and cake in one of the many harbourside cafes! With lots of remarkable architectural features, Ramsgate is not to be missed with its Pugin history and tempting array of waterfront eateries and restaurants. Ramsgate is home to a pretty Victorian Visitor Information Centre offering lots of useful tips for visitors and is also home to the Old Custom Coffee House.
Starting the trail When you are ready to begin, the Canoe trail starts at the beach slipway on the Marina Esplanade.This is a perfect place to park your car safely for the day, and with easy canoe access to the slipway. Once out on the water your paddle will take you towards Dumpton Bay.This bay has breathtaking views of the White Cliffs.It is also home to a pretty beach area known as Dumpton Gap due to the access point between the cliffs down to the beach being called locally ‘the gap’. If you are canoeing near the high tide mark you may be surprised how quickly the tide closes in against the cliffs – this has 16
caught out many an unsuspecting visitor to these shores! However for yourself, your paddle will present the perfect ‘people free’ photo opportunities of the cliffs and coastal landscapes. A little further along the coastline you pass by South Cliff – this opens out to yet more splendid seascape photo opportunities of the English Channel. On a sunny day the view from here is truly splendid and you can see the French shoreline in the distance. You will shortly pass Louisa Bay with its unmistakeable row of colourful beach huts. Admire the vastness of the sea wall as you canoe on towards Broadstairs and the treasures of Viking Bay. On a summer’s day this area will be teeming with sun seekers and excited children playing on the sand here! Protect the precious coastline and other coastal users by not landing here – your end point is within striking distance now. Your paddle finishes in Broadstairs but first you need to navigate across Viking Bay with its oodles of nostalgia and Victorian charm.Take in the amazing views one last time before heading inland towards the café located on the pier. It is well known for its great location as well as its fish and chips and it’s here
where your trail ends on the slipway of Broadstairs pier leaving you free to explore the delights of this Dickensian seaside town. So simply head towards the café on the pier and disembark– it’s very prominent when still on the water! You can head back to Ramsgate by canoe at this point or return via public transport.The area is well served by trains and the Stagecoach bus network, in particular the Thanet Loop, which serves this local area very efficiently.
Guided wildlife canoe safari Enhance your canoeing experience in Ramsgate by taking a group guided canoe safari through one of the UK’s most important protected bird sites. Canoeing through Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve, you can experience sightings of wetland birds and seals as nature intended.This is a great opportunity to spot rarer birdlife and seals in their natural habitat so bring your binoculars! Pegwell Bay is famous for sightings of Oystercatchers,Terns and Shelducks to name just a few of the rich array of wetland birds found here. These guided, small group canoe trails
[days out ] leave Western Undercliffe in Ramsgate for a 2-3 hour canoe safari which takes canoeists on a mix of open sea and river routes. Suited for the more adventurous canoeist, this guided trail is run by both Canoe Wild and Thanet Diving & Watersports, operators that know the area well and can ensure you have a responsible canoeing experience in this highly protected area. The trail starts in open sea at Ramsgate
and passes through the Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve to the mouth of the River Stour.You will then paddle back to Ramsgate.You can spend the rest of the day exploring the town’s cobbled alleyways in this vibrant coastal resort, have a pub meal by the marina or perhaps stay the night. Ramsgate is home to a great collection of quality bed and breakfasts, hotels and inns all serving great food with a renowned Kentish welcome. Don’t miss Sorbetto ice cream parlour
and Vinyl Head for a decent coffee and great music! To book your place on a small group guided Wildlife Canoe Safari, visit www.canoewild.co.uk and www.kentscubadiving.co.uk or call Canoe Wild on 07947 835688 and Thanet Diving & Watersports on 07981 551922. All equipment will be provided, or bring your own!
TYPE OF TRAIL: Tidal (open sea waters) DISTANCE: 2 miles (3.2KM) one way DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY: Moderate Challenge TIME: 1 hour (one way). Be sure to check tide times before you leave www.tidetimes.org.uk
Note - Time taken depends on wind and tide. Paddling against wind and tide slows the journey time and requires greater effort. START: Marina Esplanade, Ramsgate, Kent CT11 8DT Parking is available at Marina Esplanade (parking fees apply) FINISH: Slipway at Broadstairs Harbour Car Park CT10 1TY (Parking fees apply) PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Buses and trains run between Broadstairs and Ramsgate. Traveline 0871 200 22 33 www.traveline.info (Thanet Loop); National Rail Enquiries 03457 484950 www.nationalrail.co.uk DESIGNATIONS: The Thanet Coast, with Pegwell Bay is part of the NE Kent Marine Protected Area, and is an internationally important place for wintering birds and marine life. www.nekmpa.org.uk
17
[days out ]
CRAB WRINKLE WAY
EAST KENT CYCLE TRAIL
THE CRAB & WINKLE WAY IS A WONDERFULLY PICTURESQUE CYCLE TRAIL THAT RUNS FROM CANTERBURY THROUGH TO WHITSTABLE. THE SURFACE IS SMOOTH AND SUITABLE FOR MOST ABILITIES WHO LIKE A BIT OF A CHALLENGE. THE FIRST PART OF THE ROUTE OUT OF CANTERBURY DOES HAVE SOME STEEPER ‘UP AND DOWN’ SLOPES THAT WIND UP AND DOWN BEFORE THE ROUTE LEVELS OUT ON IT’S WAY TO WHITSTABLE. CYCLE FROM CANTERBURY, A CITY STEEPED IN HISTORY – AND A PLACE YOU’RE SURE TO RETURN – TO WHITSTABLE A CHARISMATIC SEASIDE TOWN COMPLETE WITH WEATHERBOARDED PROPERTIES, WONDERFULLY CHIC RESTAURANTS AND EVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO SOME CRABBING.
Beginning your ride
The ride is suitable for families although younger children may struggle to complete the entire route – plan your route within your limits. Any type of bike is suitable for use on the Crab & Wrinkle way. Do remember that the crab & wrinkle way is also shared by pedestrians so take care on the route and ride with consideration of other trail users.
Making your way around…
The trail follows Route 1 of the National Cycling Network (Inverness to Dover.) On the way you will pass some wonderful and interesting landmarks and landscapes. Be sure to stop off to explore these attractions or take photos before continuing along the way. WHITSTABLE HARBOUR, built by Thomas Telford. Opened in 1832 to import coal, although other goods were 18
increasingly traded in the 20th century. Today it principally trades in aggregates and timber. It must have been quite a site in the 19th century with all the large masted wooden boats moored. The fishmongers and restaurant offer something in addition to the harbour itself which retains its attractive character. The original railway station was inside the harbour gates and crossed Harbour Street with a level crossing. It became derelict when a new station was built in 1894.This station was demolished after passenger traffic ceased in 1930 and the Whitstable health centre now occupies this space. THE CRAB & WINKLE WAY MOSAIC Albert Street was designed by Oliver Budd and erected August 2002. Its theme combines the line, the seaside and cycling. THE NEW THANET WAY was opened in 1998. From the bridge one
can see, to the east, Convict’s Wood, which lost its southern tip with the construction of the road. Road protesters camped out near here; however the road did create new landscapes and habitats such as the pond on the eastern side of the bridge and the planted trees and grassy verges. Kestrels can often be seen hovering overhead at the bridge. Swalecliffe Brook which flows under the bridge has its tributaries in Blean Woods. Also very visible to the south is Clowes Wood, part of the Blean Woods. CLOWESWOOD is managed by the Forestry Commission.The main conifers likely to be seen along the ‘Way’ are Norway spruce,Western hemlock and Corsican pine. Scots pine, beech, larch and sweet chestnut also occur. Broad leaved trees have been planted or allowed to grow along the rides and paths and it is in these areas where most wildlife is found.Visiting
[days out ]
TYLER HILL gets its name from the production of tiles.The major production of pottery was during the 13th and 14th centuries. Conditions were ideal with a good supply of clay and a ready supply of wood for charcoal. SALT WAY is a very ancient track which was used to transport salt from the salt pans at Seasalter to Canterbury. It would have been a very busy trading route for this highly valued and much needed commodity and was the only good route through the Blean Woods.The Salt Way seat was constructed by Georgia Wright, a Whitstable artist, in autumn 2001.The majority of the oak used came from Blean Woods.Take a seat and think back a few thousand years to the people who would have used the route! THE VIEW FROM THE CHURCH GATE This area has seen major agricultural changes; some of the arable fields used to hold hay meadows, hops, and orchards indicated by the shelterbelt trees lining some of the fields.To the south is the valley of Sarre Penn and beyond, on the high ground, the University of Kent, built in 1965.
THE SARRE PENN is today a small stream which starts its journey in the parish of Dunkirk and flows eastwards through Blean Woods to join the River Stour at Sarre. Historically, it was only known as the Sarre Penn downstream and in fact at this location it is also known as the Fishbourne Nightjar The Salt Way seat the shelterbelt trees lining some of the fields.To the south is the valley of Sarre Penn and beyond, on the high ground, the University of Kent, the fields are unploughed. Skylarks have declined by over 50% in the last 30 years due to changes in agriculture. Bullhead, gudgeon, roach, eels and three-spined sticklebacks populated the stream here 40 years ago.The railings on the bridge were made by Julian Coode, a Whitstable artist. THE TYLER HILL TUNNEL built in 1826, was the world’s first regular passenger railway tunnel and was inspected by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. In the 1960s the University of Kent built over the tunnel. Students from that time tell of walking right through it. In 1974 there was severe subsidence under one of the university buildings, apparently caused by a 30m stretch of the tunnel collapsing. No one was injured, but the building was damaged and all but a short section of the tunnel at the south end was filled in.The Crab and Winkle Line Trust hope to reopen the tunnel for walkers, cyclists and wheel chair users so providing a gentler gradient than the present 1:5 climb REGENERATION & RETURN is the title of the sculpture by Will Glanfield of Whitstable. ’From the earth all our industry and effort is drawn, including working of iron, coal and timber.Through usage these materials are transformed and returned – part of a greater cycle.The connecting line between Canterbury and Whitstable has been re-kindled’
15
Swalecliffe B2205
Whitstable
"
"
A2990
Seasalter
9 A29
1
9 A2
9
Clowes Wood
Victory Wood 1
0
WINDING POND PICNIC AREA Water from the winding pond was used by the steam engine that wound the locomotives up the gradient in Clowes Wood.
Listen for the skylarks when the fields are unploughed. Skylarks have declined by over 50% in the last 30 years due to changes in agriculture.
9 A2
Clowes Wood at dusk during May and June, listen for the churring of the nightjar.This unusual summer visiting bird lives on heaths and young forestry plantations where it collects insects especially moths, in its gaping beak as it flies at night. Nightingale can be heard singing in May. Some of the woodland plants to be seen include wood spurge, yellow archangel, dog-violet, wood rush, pendulous sedge, agrimony and devil’s-bit scabious. In autumn look for the fly agaric mushroom, the red leaves of the uncommon wild service tree, and the crab apple. Clowes Wood is actively managed so please take notice of any operational signs in the wood. In a joint project with the Kentish Stour Countryside Partnership, the Forestry Commission in Clowes Wood has widened many rides by removing trees so that more light can enter the wood, encouraging more diverse habitat for flowers, butterflies and birds.
Blean Woods National Nature Reserve
0
0 0
1
Km
Miles
0.5
2
Cycle Trail - On-road Cycle Trail - Traffic-free National Cycle Route Train Station
Canterbury
"
1
1
LOCATION: Canterbury CT1 2AH or CT5 1SD DISTANCE: 7.5 miles (12km) TIME: Allow 1hr 15m riding slowly OS EXPLORER MAP: 179 TERRAIN: Fairly flat, slightly hilly in places PARKING: St Radigunds Street Public Car Park is nearest to CT1 2AH REFRESHMENTS & FACILITIES: Cafes, bars and restaurants located in Canterbury – Fish & chips & variety of outlets and snack kiosks in Whitstable.
What Next?
For more information on our Summer of Cycling campaign, summer events and outdoor ideas visit Explore Kent and discover the great Kentish countryside or follow Explore Kent on social media @ explorekent on Twitter & Facebook
At the end of your cycle walk, don’t forget to stop off in Whitstable for some well-deserved fish & chips and a refreshing drink before heading back to Canterbury in time for some evening entertainment.
19
GRAYSON PERRY AT THE BEANEY
CANTERBURY TO PLAY HOST TO ONE OF THE UK’S MOST CELEBRATED CONTEMPORARY ARTISTS TheVanity of Small Differences, a series of six large-scale tapestries by the Turner-Prize winning artist Grayson Perry, will go on display in Canterbury this October. Created alongside the BAFTA award-winning Channel 4 series,All in the Best Possible Taste, the series follows Perry as he embarks ‘on a safari amongst the taste tribes of Britain’ to gain inspiration for his work. Perry said:“Of all the pieces I have made this was the one I conceived from the outset as a public artwork. I hope that wherever it goes it not only delights the eyes but also sparks debate about class, taste and British Society” Inspired by the 18th century painter William Hogarth’s moral tale,A Rake’s Progress, Perry’s tapestries follow the rise and fall of a fictional character called Tim Rakewell, as he develops from infancy through his teenage and middle years, to his untimely death in a bloody car accident.
A very British fascination with class and taste Born in Chelmsford, Essex in 1960, Grayson Perry is a great chronicler of contemporary life. His tapestries are rich in both content and colour and depict many of the eccentricities and peculiarities associated with life in the UK, picking up the threads of regional differences from interior design to cuisine, political protest and celebrity gossip. The tapestries will be displayed at The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge on Canterbury High Street, and will be accompanied by a special programme of associated events and activities for all ages [see thebeaney.co.uk for more details].
20
ADDITIONAL INFO The Beaney proudly hosts the first regional exhibition of the tapestries in the South East which will form part of this year’s Canterbury Festival. Exhibition Kindly Sponsored by: The Canterbury Auction Galleries Grayson Perry: The Vanity of Small Differences Saturday 8 October to Sunday 4 December Special Exhibitions Room, The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge 18 High Street, Canterbury thebeaney.co.uk IMAGE CREDIT Arts Council Collection, Southbank Centre London and British Council. Gift of the artist andVictoria Miro Gallery with the support of Channel 4 Television,The Art Fund and Sfumato Foundation with additional support from AlixPartners © Grayson Perry. Photography © Stephen White This exhibition has been supported with loans from the Arts Council Collection. Founded in 1946, the Arts Council Collection is the UK’s most widely circulated loan collection of modern and contemporary British art and includes important examples by all of the UK’s prominent artists. For more information please see www. artscouncilcollection.org.uk
&
QA
[feature ]
with Mr Turrloo Parrett, Eastwell Manor EKL WERE DELIGHTED TO GET THE OPPORTUNITY TO CATCH UP WITH MR TURRLOO PARRETT, CHAIRMAN AND OWNER OF THE PRESTIGIOUS EASTWELL MANOR HOTEL & SPA AS WELL AS THE HYTHE BAY RESTAURANTS IN HYTHE, DOVER, AND (SHORTLY) DEAL. MR PARRETT IS A SERIAL ENTREPRENEUR WITH A PASSION FOR BUSINESS, PEOPLE, AND, IT WOULD SEEM, EAST KENT!
Mr Parrett, as a businessman and entrepreneur you enjoyed great success in the capital and beyond, but you’ve always stayed loyal to East Kent – what is it you enjoy most about our little corner of England? I was born in Folkestone and my first married home was in Seabrook. As an economic necessity, as a young married couple, we relocated to London for a very short period of time and then tried living in one of the other counties near to London but we reverted to living in Kent. After a very successful business based around the City we relocated to a farm in the Sevenoaks area but were obliged to forfeit this way of life because of my failing eyesight. I now happily reside at Eastwell Manor and Hythe where I have been for the last twenty or so years.The unspoilt nature of Kent, its proximity to the coast and its well-preserved, unpretentious charm makes it impossible to contemplate living anywhere else in the United Kingdom. I still have some family in the area and I remain an active member of the Old Harveians Association, meeting old school friends, many of whom have now retired. For those that wish to engage there are many business opportunities available in Kent. I have successfully had a house-building operation, I created one of the first industrial units in Ashford and, in addition to Eastwell Manor, I currently own the well-respected Hythe Bay Seafood Restaurants in Hythe and Dover and will be opening another one in Deal before the end of the year.
Most people, after a long and successful career might have thought to slow down when hitting 60 – but you and your late wife instead decided to take on the not inconsiderable Eastwell Manor in 1995. What on earth possessed you to take on a project of such magnitude?
Unfortunately, in my early 40s, I was diagnosed with an acute eye disease; at that time, the prognosis was that in all probability I would be totally blind by the age of 60. Fortuitously improved drugs and procedures have meant that I have been lucky enough to have retained approximately 5% of my vision which, as I often say, is a lot better than 4%! With this sort of prognosis in my 40s I was left with little choice but to withdraw from public company life and face up to what lay ahead.There were many people who advised my wife and myself that I should be encouraged to take an interest in music which was a complete anathema to my way of life. I have always wanted to “do business” where there are challenges (and where I can meet people and be involved) and the grand theory then was that a country house hotel would provide me with an opportunity of sitting by a log fire, in my smoking jacket, with a large cigar in one hand and a glass of brandy in the other with people, staff and guests sharing their thoughts with me. None of this has quite happened but we have a very welcoming log fire at Eastwell Manor but I have little time to sit by it.
Eastwell Manor is such a fantastic destination with so much to offer, what would you say has been your finest achievement here at the Manor in the last 21 years? I think taking a fairly run down property, which was purchased from the receivers, with just 23 bedrooms and creating a trophy hotel that has 62 bedrooms, a state of the art leisure centre, a beauty centre and golf course.
What would you like to see for Eastwell Manor if you could come back in 100 years? I would like to see that the high standards we have set have been maintained, that someone has continued to provide fresh flowers throughout the hotel and the log fires are still burning! 21
[days out]
Margate Bookie
LITFEST
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND: KENT’S NEWEST LITERARY FESTIVAL HAS DOUBLED IN SIZE FOR ITS SECOND YEAR
The Margate Bookie Litfest returns on 20 and 21 August 2016 with an amazing selection of literary treats. Highlights include Emmy-winning comedy writer David Quantick, former chair of the Royal Literary Society Maggie Gee and Margate-born poet Salena Godden. Events take place at iconic venues across Margate, including the glamorous Sands Hotel, the Turner Contemporary, Bernie’s Chocolate Bar and the uber-trendy Resort Studios.
Find inspiration: Jay Rayner delivers his Ten Food Commandments explaining, amongst other things, why thou shalt always eat with thy hands and worship the humble pig. Author of Stasi Child, David Young, will share videos of reallife escapes and never-seen-before pictures of the locations that inspired him to write the chilling Cold War thriller. David’s talk is part of the Bookie’s new Crimewave programme which also features Thanet-born Sophia Tobin, whose novel The Widow’s Confession is set in 1850s Broadstairs.
22
Writers from the hugely popular Psychologies Magazine will talk about happiness, reading and finding time for yourself, while the Welcome Home mini festival focuses on ‘home’; what home really means to you, how you might feel more at home in yourself, and how we can take these feelings with us everywhere we go. Author of twelve novels, Maggie Gee, will open the Literary Lounge. Jude Cook and Samantha Ellis (who read at last year’s Bookie) will be joined by the likes of debut novelist Emma Claire Sweeney (whose novel Owl Song at Dawn, inspired by her autistic sister, was released on 29 June 2016) and Amy Sackville, who teaches creative writing at the University of Kent.
Learn new skills: For aspiring novelists and writers we are offering a series of workshops and masterclasses. Screenwriter, author and all round funny guy, Paul Dornan, is leading a masterclass on comic writing. Paul’s special guest is Simon Nye, who wrote Men Behaving Badly.
[days out ]
Sebastian Baczkiewicz – who has written more than 40 plays for Radio 4 – will present a fun and interactive session on getting into TV and radio drama. And there’s more. Budding writers can: learn about creating ‘flash fiction’ and be guided through the process of writing a short story; meet a publisher and find out what it takes to get a book to print, and; get a glimpse into the fascinating world of literary translation (and take on the challenge of translating text from Spanish into English without losing the essence of the piece).
Encouraging young readers This year the Litfest have introduced a children’s storytelling morning to the Bookie line up. As well as a reading of the Gruffalo, Sam Gayton, author of Hercufleas, and Dosh Archer of Urgency Emergency fame, will share their stories for children. While the kids are having fun, journalist and author of four parenting books, Liat Hughes Joshi, will share her tips on getting children to turn off their gadgets and enjoy real life.
I have done what I have set out to do. For adults it’s more about providing access to writing workshops and routes to publishers. Writing builds skills. It creates confidence, happiness and positivity. I know that from my own experiences and want other people to find it too.”
Andreas Loizou on the popularity of the Margate Bookie “I’m delighted the Margate Bookie is proving to be so popular. I always knew a litfest in England’s coolest town would be a winner, but I’ve been knocked out by the amazing feedback from our audience. Many of our authors and publishers fell in love with Margate last year and have already booked to join us again this time.” Tickets for Margate Bookie are available now.Thanks to generous support from the Arts Council and Thanet District Council, sessions are offered either free of charge or at a heavily discounted rate.Visit www.margatebookie.com for more information
Andreas Loizou on why he set up Margate Bookie “As a kid growing up in Margate I had people around me who encouraged me to read and inspired me to write. I want children – and adults – to still have that today. If the Bookie can help children to find a love of books and keep reading as they get older, then
23
days out] out ] [[days
FOLKESTONE QUARTERHOUSE THE DIVINE COMEDY AND OTHER MUST SEE MUSIC AT FOLKESTONE QUARTERHOUSE THIS AUTUMN
Kent is fast becoming the place to catch performances by some of the world’s most unique and culturally important touring musicians, and Folkestone is no exception.This autumn Quarterhouse are delighted to present Michele Stodart (The Magic Number), Neil Hanon’s The Divine Comedy, the return of flamenco guitar virtuoso Juan Martin and a very special reading and solo performance by Kirstin Hersh of Throwing Muses and 50 Foot Wave!
she has turned into an artist whose work bears strong comparison to some of the touchstone songwriters that helped shape her outlook. Artfully combining elements of country, blues and classical, Michelle and her band (which includes members of The Magic Numbers) have already played the acoustic tent to an enraptured crowd at this year's Glastonbury Festival and this autumn visit Folkestone Quarterhouse on Thursday 22 September.
exemplifies this, with references to everything from Catherine The Great to the French Foreign Legion. Neil says of the new record, 'it's about meeting your soul mate and living happily ever after... and then what comes after happily ever after. Get ready for the most historically inaccurate hit of the summer'. With shows selling out across the UK, Quarterhouse are thrilled to welcome these troubadours of orchestral pop to Folkestone on Friday 21 October.
Over a decade since The Magic Numbers landed in the top ten with their double-platinum selling debut, Michele Stodart releases her second solo album ‘Pieces’ confirming that, almost by stealth,
Since The Divine Comedy’s inception in 1989, Neil Hannon has time and again proved to be one of the UK’s best and most original songwriters. The fourthcoming album 'Foreverland'
Celebrated virtuoso of the flamenco guitar Juan Martin returns to Folkestone on Friday 4 November with a show that will blow the roof off! Voted in the top three guitarists in the world by US
24
[days out ] magazine Guitar Player, Juan Martin played in the Spanish film Donde tu Estes aged 17, played for Picasso’s 90th birthday celebrations and has performed at international festivals from Montreux to Hong Kong.With a terrifyingly good technique and absolute dominance of the guitar Juan Martin is a must for music devotees, budding guitarists and flamenco lovers.
On Friday 25 November cult 4AD artist Kristin Hersh visits Folkestone Quarterhouse with a rare solo appearance in support of her new collection of writing - Wyatt at the Coyote Palace. Hersh found fame in the legendary Throwing Muses and continues to receive worldwide acclaim as a solo artist and as a member of 50 Foot Wave. Kristin’s first book Paradoxical
Undressing was described by Rolling Stone as “one of the top ten best rock memoirs ever written”.This special live show will consist of a selection of readings from Wyatt at the Coyote Palace alongside a live solo music set. For more information and ticket booking visit www.quarterhouse. co.uk or call 01303 760750.
AL MURRAY, LEE NELSON AND MARK THOMAS AT FOLKESTONE QAURTERHOUSE This autumn Folkestone Quarterhouse welcomes three of the UKs leading comedians. Al Murray warms up for his new tour ‘Let’s Go Backwards Together’, Lee Nelson hits town with a rare intimate work in progress show and Mark Thomas presents the third in a trilogy of shows ‘The Red Shed’. Britain’s favourite publican Al Murray returns to Folkestone on Wednesday 7 September to test out new material for his new major tour.The nation's critically acclaimed bar-based-braveheart is embarking on a common sense campaign to re-Great Britain in his brand new show ‘Let’s Go Backwards Together’.Watch the one man who will answer the call of destiny even though it's an unlisted number.Watch the one man who will call time on tyranny even though he isn't quite sure what it means! With a back catalogue that includes several successful television programmes, critically acclaimed sell-out tours, as well as standing for election in Thanet South, Al Murray is a comedy force to be reckoned with!
returns to the place where he first started to perform in public, a red wooden shed in Wakefield, the Labour Club, to celebrate the club’s 50th birthday. Interviewing old friends and comrades Mark pieces together the club’s history and works with the club to campaign with some of the poorest workers in the country for their rights. It’s a story of strikes, dinner ladies and commies.
Crap beer, great beer, burgers and burger slingers. Pickets, placards, friendship, love, history, dreams and above all remembering. It is the story of the battle for hope and the survival of a community in a small wooden shed. For more information and ticket booking visit www.quarterhouse. co.uk or call the Box Office on 01303 760750.
Cheeky chav Lee Nelson is back with a work-in-progress show at Quarterhouse on Friday 7 October! Simon Brodkin’s happy-go-lucky character makes a grand return to the stage following his Suited and Booted national tour, trialling brand new material in an intimate venue. As well as a series of national tours Lee has featured on Al Murray’s Multiple Personality Disorder, Live at the Apollo, written and starred in Lee Nelson’s Well Good Show and also invaded the stage during Kayne West’s Glastonbury performance! Mark Thomas presents ‘The Red Shed’ on Tuesday 6 December, the third in a trilogy of multi-award winning shows (Bravo Figaro and Cuckooed). Mark 25
[days out ]
WHEELS FINS
BY PETE NICHOLS
The ‘Wheels & Fins Festival’ at Joss Bay Beach in Broadstairs has been a labour of love for its founder and patron Dave Melmoth since its inception back in 2012. Wheels & Fins is a free three-day, music, action sports and beach festival catering to thousands of happy revellers of all ages and takes place this year on the weekend of Friday 9th – Sunday 11th September. The first festival, four years ago was such a success with over 5,000 visitors across the weekend that Dave and his partners decided to up the ante in 2013, bringing in bigger names, bigger events, and consequently, incurring bigger costs. Looking back it was a risky move and unfortunately the organisers hubris cost them dear, as a combination of overambition and bad weather lead to the festival making substantial losses. Dave’s partners decided that it wouldn’t be prudent for them to continue with the project and the planned 2014 Festival was subsequently cancelled as the team worked hard to pay off the debts. Dave Melmoth, however, is made of sterner stuff, and the Joss Bay Surf School boss vowed to continue with Wheels & Fins and brought it back with a vengeance last year, with thousands of visitors flocking to Joss Bay to soak up the action. As well 26
Meeting up with Dave you can feel the passion pouring out of him when it comes to Wheels & Fins and I have no doubt that 2016’s festival will push the boundaries once again as it’s set to be bigger and better than ever before – and this time Dave’s prepared for it!
as the skateboarding and surfing comps down on the beach the Festival took over half of the clifftop carpark, erecting huge marquees which accommodated dozens of bands, a couple of jam-packed beer tents, and a whole host of superb concessions selling merchandise and some great local food and drink. Being up on the clifftop also afforded visitors a great view of the enormously entertaining Soapbox race which took place from near the North Foreland lighthouse right down to the beach entrance.
This year’s festival will once again feature the Soapbox race and a whole host of other action sports events including; a skateboard mini ramp competition, UK BMX flatland championships, surf and stand up paddleboard events, and trail bike display teams.You can also try out the “Mad Drop Air Bag” (as you might have worked out, this involves hurling yourself from a great height onto a stuntman air bag!) or dabble in a little slacklining (the act of walking or balancing along a suspended length of flat webbing that is tensioned between two anchors).
[days out ]
There also promises to be an outstanding fireworks display and of course bucketloads of live music, DJ’s, licensed bars, craft beers, a food court, merchandise stalls and much more beside. The festival is only an hour and a half from London on the high-speed train making it a day trip for any eager beach thrill seeker. Not many festivals around the UK can boast that”. This year Dave and his team will be registering everyone who attends the festival.You will be allocated a wristband for the weekend which you will need to be wearing to gain access to the venues. A word of warning for the youthful adults – proof of age will be required upon registering as only those with over 18 wristbands will be served alcohol at the bars. If you’re under 16 this year then you’ll need to be accompanied by an adult after 9pm. Special mention must go to Dave’s Joss Bay Surf School who work hard throughout the year to keep the Blue
Flag beach clean with new educational projects with Southern Water, regular beach cleans, and campaigns with Surfers Against Sewage.The Surf School holds Surf & SUP lessons, from 1 on 1 tuition to group classes, and will be holding competitions and workshops at the festival as well as lots of other beach activities including everything from volleyball to sand sculptures.There will be Surfers Against Sewage workshops at the festival and for those of you who want to do your bit to keep this amazing 200m stretch of idyllic beach in tip-top condition, you can find out more and take part in the beach cleans and other SAS campaigns. W&F’s are also working with other local businesses who share their passion for this coast, including their seaweed obsessed Margate neighbours Haeckels, who have reinvented the Victorian Bathing machine into a stunning sauna! Funded by supporters, designed and built locally, the sauna will be at this year’s festival on Joss Bay beach.
As the organisers so aptly put it, “Wheels and Fins pulls together everything that’s great about the Kent coastal lifestyle: action sports, beautiful beaches, great food and exciting music.We like sand between our toes, and salt in our hair; and the vision of the Wheels and Fins team has always been to provide a family friendly event that delivers everything
that makes a summer on the Isle of Thanet unique – in a single weekend.” Wheels & Fins is truly one of the most outstanding events you’re likely to happen across in Kent this summer. Make sure you make the trip, you won’t regret it! For more information go to www.wheelsandfins.co.uk
27
9 /10 /11 SEPTEMBER 2016 TH
TH
TH
JO SS BAY, B R O A D S TA IR S , K ENT
100% FREE ENTRY
SOAP BOX RACING SKATE MINI RAMP COMP UK BMX FLATLAND CHAMPS
SURF AND SUP EVENTS
CRAFT BEERS LIVE MUSIC TASTY FOOD DJS STALLS SLACKLINING BIKE DEMO’S BEACH VOLLEYBALL FIREWORKS KIDDIES CORNER SAS WORKSHOPS
WWW.WHEELSANDFINS.CO.UK 28
KE NT ’S N O. 1 AC TI ON SP OR TS FE ST IVAL
29
[feature ]
YOUR FAMILY LAW EXPERT
At Gardner Croft, our expert Family Law team provide advice that is sensitive to the upset, uncertainties and upheaval that occur following the breakdown of a family relationship.
Our experienced team will address your concerns and assist in resolving differences with your partner or spouse as swiftly and as constructively as possible, helping you to reach an appropriate solution, particularly if you have children. As part of this process, we provide: •
•
30
•
Tailor-made solutions which recognise the individual nature of each and every family.
We offer a wide range of legal support, including the process associated with a formal separation or divorce, arrangements for the financial matters Objective and clear advice about the arising from this including the family options available to you to ensure home and business interests, arrangements that you can make the correct for children, Pre-nuptial Agreements choices and consider your future and and advising unmarried couples on that of any children. cohabitation disputes. Expert guidance from lawyers who have specialist qualifications in dealing with financial and children matters.
If you are keen to talk to someone as soon as possible, we will do all we can to meet with you at a time that is convenient for you. We offer an initial meeting at a fixed fee of £100 (including VAT) at our offices in Canterbury.
Contact us on 01227 813400 or e-mail enquiries@gardnercroft. co.uk or visit www.gardnercroft. co.uk and quote “East Kent Lifestyle Advert”. Please quote “East Kent Lifestyle Advert”.
[days out ]
‘TRACKING THE MAJOR’
THE LIFE AND TIMES OF THE FOUNDER OF THE POWELL-COTTON MUSEUM
This summer,The Friends of Quex is celebrating the 150th anniversary of the birth of Major Percy Powell-Cotton by launching an entertaining behind-thescenes biography of this remarkable Kent character.
The book was launched at an exclusive event at the Powell-Cotton Museum on Friday 8th July.The Major’s family and local dignitaries were in attendance to hear Andrew Joynes read from the book and talk about his research.
TRACKING THE MAJOR - which has been developed from a series of radio talks by former BBC producer Andrew Joynes – relates the popular perception of the Major in his own times to the heroic stereotypes of Victorian and Edwardian popular literature. With attractive pen-and-ink illustrations by East Kent artist Anthony Stanton, the author takes the reader on a historical safari, ‘tracking’ the Major through the PowellCotton archive with the help of letters, documents and striking photographs.
Andrew says of the book, “I’ve always been interested in the way cultures work, and I wanted to discover why the Major achieved such celebrity in late Victorian and Edwardian times. In the years before the Great War, national newspapers and magazines carried many stories of his journeys and expeditions in search of curios and specimens for his private museum at Quex Park. He was committed to environmental education from an early age, and I think of him as a forerunner of Sir David Attenborough in
our own times. He and other collectors like him changed perceptions of natural history. “I’m delighted to have had the support of the Major’s family and successive Directors of the Powell-Cotton Museum, who have given me full access to diaries, photographs and other documents in the Quex archive. It’s a great pleasure to be able to tell such an amazing story.” TRACKING THE MAJOR: Sketches from the Powell-Cotton Museum (ISBN 978-0-9935767-0-6) has been published by Mickle Print of Canterbury. It can be ordered from the Powell-Cotton Museum (01843 842168) at a price of £14.50, postage and packing: £2.00. To place an order, please contact: shop@quexmuseum.org
31
[days out]
DUNGENESS DETAILS INHOSPITABLE, DESOLATE, WILD, WINDSWEPT: THESE WORDS COME UP TIME AND TIME AGAIN WHEN DESCRIBING DUNGENESS, AND FOR THOSE SEEKING A SENSE OF THE SURREAL, THERE’S NO PLACE QUITE LIKE KENT’S SOUTHERNMOST TIP, WRITES JAILLAN YEHIA.
The clue to the place rests in the name: Dungeness derives from the Old Norse word nes meaning headland; and this isolated area offers the closest thing the British Isles has to the Wild West, while being the UK’s only recognised desert to boot. The pull of this place can be explained by its other-worldliness; a unique part of the country offering an escape from the rigid norms of British society and town-planning, Dungeness offers eerie and strange combinations: a huge nuclear power station in an area famous for its bird reserve; a vast shingle beach complete with two lighthouses being served by a pocket-sized coal-powered model railway; and an artistic community selling work from their studios in architecturally diverse man-made structures. This land of extremes sees one of the largest expanses of shingle on earth juxtaposed with the world’s smallest gauge public railway, the circa 1927 Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, which carries you from the Romney Marsh to end-of-the-line Dungeness Lighthouse on lovingly preserved steam and diesel trains. And yet Dungeness is in many ways a quintessentially British place to while away a Sunday, an unforgiving location, a windy climate 32
to blow the cobwebs away, and a selection of quirky and interesting nooks and crannies to keep you entertained on your day out. The town itself is simply a collection of buildings, sheds, and other outposts of life including an airstream and a rubber-clad house, all of which pepper this stark natural landscape. While one of the lighthouses, one of which is open to visitors, the most famous attraction here is undoubtedly Prospect Cottage, the home owned by the late artist and film maker Derek Jarman. The cottage is a striking timber building, painted black and yellow, with a John Donne poem The Sunne Rising displayed on one side; visitors can freely access the unwalled garden, which reflects and draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape; a simple shingle, driftwood, and metallic space. Dungeness also holds some secrets from history - as the site of the first radio transmissions by Marconi who sent his maiden radio messages across the English Channel after conducting research in sheds which can still be seen on the Shingle. A similar revelation in the duties of Dungeness comes in the shape of its World War II role as the source of a pipeline under the
[days out ] Channel, supplying allied forces in France with fuel. The pipe was nicknamed PLUTO (PipeLine Under The Ocean) and pumped a million gallons a day at its peak. The secrets of present-day Dungeness are just as revealing; 90,000 cubic metres of shingle is moved by engineers each year in a bid to preserve the nuclear power stations from encroachment by the sea. But for most the nuclear power station itself provides just a backdrop to a leisurely mooch around the area in search of the art for which it is justly famous, and a visit to an artist’s studio is an inspiring aspect of any trip to Dungeness.
VISITOR INFO: RSPB DUNGENESS www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/d/dungeness The reserve is open daily except Christmas Day and Boxing Day from 9 am-9 pm (or sunset if earlier). The visitor centre is open from 10 am-5 pm (4 pm November - February). RSPB and Wildlife Explorer members get free entry and non-members pay £4 (adults) £3 (students) under 16s £2, under 5’s free. ROMNEY, HYTHE AND DYMCHURCH RAILWAY www.rhdr.org.uk The stations at New Romney, Dungeness and Hythe are all on or near the A259 trunk road which gives direct access from the Kent & Sussex coast. Fares start from £9.40, or you can buy a RomneyRover covering all stations all day for £17.00 (Adults) £8.50 (Children), £15.00 concessions. OLD DUNGENESS LIGHTHOUSE Admission costs £4.00 (Adults), or £2.50 (Children) £3.50 (Students) Concessions £3.50. Families of 2 adults and up to four children pay £12.50 For opening hours see: www.dungenesslighthouse.com ARTISTS Some studios can make a great place to stock up on unusual Christmas cards (and even presents for the artistic-minded folk in your life). Two of the area’s well-known artists’ studios: Paddy Hamilton, for more info visit: www.paintings-for-sale.net/oil-paintings.html Chris Shore & Helen Taylor: See www.dungenessgallery.co.uk
33
[feature ]
JULIE DAVIES’
SUPERMARKET FLOWER CHALLENGE Faversham based flower arranging expert and teacher Julie Davies gives us her tips on how to make your five quid bunch of flowers from your local supermarket look like they’ve been picked and prepped by a pro!
You know what it’s like – you’re doing the supermarket shop and you need a pick-me-up. You’ve avoided the chocolate aisle and you decide to spend £5 and treat yourself to a mixed bunch of flowers. Once home you re-cut the stems and put them into a vase – and wonder why they don’t look as good as you thought they would. WHAT HAVE YOU GOT? The first thing you need to do with your flowers is to take them out of their cellophane and lay them out in front of your so you can see what you’ve got. Then, re-cut the stems at an angle and put them in a bucket or vase of water, so they can start drinking again after their journey home with you. 1.
SINGLE GERBERA ARRANGEMENT
Take a gerbera and pair of sturdy kitchen scissors to cut cleanly through the stem.You’ll also need some narrow necked containers so that your flowers don’t flop to one side of the vase. Here, I’ve used a flip-topped carafe/bottle, a bottle from an artisan soft drinks manufacturer and an old sauce bottle. Raiding your recycling is a great way of sourcing some quirky containers without have to fork out on vases. To add interest, I suggest cutting the gerbera to different lengths, rather than having them at the same height. This will add a bit of interest (or movement) to your flowers, which will make them more appealing to look at. Once you’ve arranged your flowers you need to decide whether to display them. How about having them spaced at regular intervals across a shelf? Or grouped to one side? They’ll look good on a hall table, or in your living room. 34
I’ve got a great solution to make your flowers go further and look amazing so your friends and family won’t believe they’ve come from the local supermarket! So here’s 5 ways to get the most out of a £5 bunch of supermarket flowers. My supermarket bunch had three hot pink gerbera. They’re the daisy-like flowers on a long straight stem; there was one rose – quite large, with the promise of being a little bit special. A stem of dyed pink gypsophila. And four stems of chrysanthemum. Two were mauve and had spidery like petals and the others much paler pink, with a green eye in the centre.
2.
JAM JAR CHRYSANTHEMUMS
Take one stem of chrysanthemum. You’ll need a pair of scissors and a length of ribbon. I’m using a selection of jam jars. You’ll need to soak off the labels and give the jars a wash. Chrysanthemums have long bushy stems. If you cut off the side shoots you can make up mini bouquets of flowers – mixing the large, middle-sized heads and buds together. Once you’re pleased with the bundle of flowers you’ve got in your hand, fasten them together with a length of ribbon and tie a bow just under their heads. Place each tied bundle of flowers into its own jam jar. They’ll slip to the side – which is all part of the design you want to achieve with this particular arrangement. Make sure the ribbon drapes over the outside of your jam jars – otherwise they’ll end up getting wet.
[feature ]
Small arrangements like this look great grouped together. How about running them down the centre of your kitchen table – rather than dotting them around different parts of your house? Alternatively, arrange them on your patio table if you’re eating outside and intersperse your arrangements with tea lights. Don’t leave unattended candles burning. 3.
TIN CAN FLOWERS
For this arrangement, I’m using my rose, the dyed gyp and a stem of chrysanthemum. You’ll need a pair of scissors and a vase. I’m using a tin can. I’ve soaked off the label and given it a wash. You need to start this arrangement by cutting the gyp into as many lengths you can, making sure they are a little bit taller than your can – so their frothy heads can peek out from the top. Cut your rose to the same length and place it at the front of the can, where it can be seen. To finish off, add in some of your chrysanthemum stems to fill out the can and support the rose, so it doesn’t move around and stays where you want it to be. Roses always look great on a low table. You need to be able to look down into the bloom so you can see the beauty of the flower head as the petals unfold. 4. MODERN VASE ARRANGEMENT
For this arrangement, I’m using two pale pink chrysanthemum stems and one mauve stem. You’ll need a pair of scissors and a vase. You need to cut your chrysanthemums a little longer than the height of your vase – so the flower heads will be seen, but not the stems. Take off any side shoots that would end up inside the vase – you can use these another time.
Place the flowers upright into the vase for a streamlined modern look.This arrangement works really well in a simple glass vase, giving a stylish look to an ordinary supermarket flower. As this is a bigger arrangement its best suited for a hall table or in your living room, where you’ve got lots of space and the flowers won’t get knocked about. 5.
VINTAGE TEA CUP AND SAUCER
For this arrangement I’m going to use the left over sideshoots from the vase of chrysanthemums. You’ll need a pair of scissors and a vintage tea cup and saucer. Stem by stem, rest the neck of each flower on the rim of your tea cup and work around the cup in a clockwise direction – you’ll be adding stem over stem, which will lock them in place. When you’ve been round the edge, fill in the centre of the tea cup. This arrangement would look cute at a vintage-themed tea party.
ARE YOU UP FOR A CHALLENGE? I’d love to see how you arrange your weekly bunch of supermarket flowers. Tweet your photos to me at @ JDflwrworkshops with the hashtag #flowerstart Would you like to win a FREE place on my next 4-week online flower arranging class? If you’d like to win a place on my next 4-week online flower arranging class retweet the post pinned to the top of my Twitter account*and I'll select a winner at random *no cash alternative/terms and conditions
35
[homes & interiors ]
BY HAYLEY FENN, UK HEAD OF GRANITE TRANSFORMATIONS
TIPS
KITCHEN & BATHROOM REMODELLING
The latest home improvement report from Barclays indicates that over half (53%) of UK homeowners would choose to remodel their existing properties, rather than move to a new house.The most desirable home improvement is a designer kitchen, with an ensuite bathroom also high on the wish list. Remodelling homes is my business, particularly kitchens and bathrooms, so here are 5 more affordable tips for enhancing your living space and adding value to your property.
Add an ensuite – demand for ensuite facilities is on the rise, so you could turn an adjoining room or underutilised space 36
into a walk-in bathroom adjacent to a bedroom. Slimline agglomerate granite, quartz, recycled glass or porcelain waterrepellent finishes and modern spacesaving suites will enable remodelling even a compact room, with large floor tiles visually linking the adjoining areas.
Explore magical mosaics –
modern tile laying systems mean that genuine Italian glass mosaics are quicker and easier to fit, adding an unmistakeable touch of luxury in the kitchen, bathroom or dining room. Choose classic subway styles, mix’n’match ‘mosaics on a mattress’, exclusive designer patterns, even stained glass effects, all non-porous, wipe
clean, durable and beautifully textured. There’s even the option of your own custom mosaic design.
Go island style – in the kitchen or
as a room divider in a kitchen-diner, a standalone island unit offers extra storage and casual dining.The island countertop, with down-to-the-floor waterfall ends, can either show off your main worktop finish or add a splash of colour with a contrasting, bold finish. A ‘dining island’, with cantilevered top and stylish stools, helps focus the kitchen area as the hub of the home and family living generally.
Pimp a downstairs loo – you can transform a humble downstairs loo
[homes & interiors ] or closet into an eyecatching visitor cloakroom, wowing guests and letting your creativity run wild. Quality glass mosaic wallpaper can add drama, especially with downlighters picking out reflective highlights, while lighter agglomerate floor tiles help create an illusion of space. Modern corner sinks and close-coupled WCs maximise the use of floorspace, while presenting a clean, clinical look.
What a shower – there’s definitely a trend toward bigger, better showers, such as walk-in enclosures, double showers for convivial use, even complete wetrooms. Modern, water-resistant and virtually seamless shower liners, floor-to-ceiling wall cladding and feature floor tiles are all options in your makeover palette, together with large glass panels and shower enclosures, china and acrylic base trays, and modern user-friendly fixtures like hydromassage columns. Perhaps the best thing about my remodelling tips is that they can be mostly carried out within your existing room layouts, without re-siting the plumbing and electrical connections, and by simply overlaying the worktops, tiles and bathroom surfaces that you want to replace.That means less ripping out, less dust and debris, and less household disruption. If I tell you also that most of our finishes are eco-friendly, made from recycled materials, then you’ll be happy that you won’t be damaging the environment or contributing to unwanted landfill.What’s more, our Granite Transformations showrooms have all the experts and installers to help plan your remodelling project and do all the work for you. Can’t be bad. For your nearest showroom, visit www.granitetransformations.co.uk or ring our hotline on 0800 044 5393.
37
5
OUR TOP
[homes & interiors ]
BY VICKY KING OF PAPILLON INTERIORS, FORT HILL, MARGATE
DESIGNERS DESIG AND THEIR WORK
At papillon we come across many designers who, in their time, have forged products that have been seamlessly integrated into our lives. Their objects and images have become so much a part of this that we forget that there was once someone there to plan, edit and create them. Some of the pieces featured in this list have gone on to not only outlive their creators, but take on a personality and life of their own. We have shared many of their products with you in past publications but here we’d like to tell you about the creative individuals who designed them.
CHARLES AND RAY EAMES
ZAHA HADID
Charles and Ray Eames were husband and wife American designers who made significant historical contributions to the development of modern architecture and furniture. Among their most well-known designs is The Eames' molded plywood lounge chair, the first and finest of its time when it debuted in the 1950s. Since then, the chair and ottoman, have been in constant production. It even holds a spot in the permanent collection of MoMA in New York City. In addition to this stunning contribution to furniture design, Charles and Ray are also responsible for the ever popular 'Plastic Chairs' manufactured by Vitra. With their great choice of bases and seat shell colours it allows customers to specify countless different combinations and to use the chairs in the widest range of settings – from dining rooms, living rooms and home offices to office workspaces and conference rooms; from restaurants and cafés to break rooms and cafeterias; from waiting areas and auditoriums to terraces and gardens.
Zaha Hadid left an indelible mark on the architectural world, transforming the look of contemporary architecture with her striking abstract and modernist designs. Fluid forms and Constructivist aesthetics — such as bold colors and softly angular edges — are the keynotes of her buildings and her furniture. Born in Baghdad, Iraq, Hadid studied at the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London and made the city her home for much of her life. Her designs were formed more by art than architecture. In college, she was first inspired by the Russian avant-garde school of artists and the influence of painters such as Wassily Kandinsky and Kazimer Malevich is apparent in much of her work. In the UK The London Aquatic Centre is arguably Hadids best design, a concept inspired by the fluid geometry of water in motion, creating spaces and a surrounding environment in sympathy with the river landscape of the Olympic Park. An undulating roof sweeps up from the ground as a wave, enclosing the pools of the Centre with its unifying gesture.
PHILIPPE STARCK This internationally renowned product designer began his career as the artistic director of Pierre Cardin's publishing house. Following this he went on to establish his own industrial design company that would 38
[homes & interiors ]
work with the likes of Driade, Alessi, Kartell and many others. His dedication to the idea of democratic design led him to create mass-produced consumer products rather than singular bespoke pieces. Starck gradually expanded his design practice to every genre possible: furniture, domestic appliances, staplers, toothbrushes and lemon reamers, tableware, even clothing, food, and architecture.
buses, the Olympic cauldron for the London 2012 opening ceremony, and a new pedestrian bridge for London with actress Joanna Lumley. He specialises in objects which twist the viewer’s expectations – stools built like spinning tops, with no solid base; benches formed by squeezing aluminium through a shaped hole, or a plank that can be folded into a chair in seconds.
Perhaps one of his most iconic designs Starck’s aluminum tripod design could be mistaken for a streamlined alien invader from a ‘50s pulp comic. He’s rumored to have said: "It's not meant to squeeze lemons, it is meant to start conversations."
The Heatherwick Spun Chair was produced after extensive research and experimentation. If it was possible to make large drums with spun metal, might it be possible to make a chair with a completely symmetrical rotational form? And would it be comfortable to sit in?
EDWARD BARBER AND JAY OSGERBY Barber and Osgerby began producing minimalist furniture in 1996. They were Inspired by their architecture degrees from London’s Royal College of Art to produce clean, folded designs reminiscent of the white card used in architects’ 3D plans. The pair have gone from strength to strength, bringing their eye for simple lines to school chairs and the 2012 Olympic torch, as well as numerous collections for stores and boutiques.
The Spun is an ergonomic form that works as a chair, whichever way it is rotated. To achieve this in a single form, the seat had to be capable of serving as a back support and the back support had to make a comfortable seat. The Heatherwick studio reached their goal, it is extremely comfortable and great fun too.
The Tip Ton, designed in 2011, allows two types of sitting experiences that characterise the chair. From a normal position, Tip Ton can be tilted a few degrees forward where it then stays in place. Such is its flexibility and style it can be used at a desk, around your kitchen table or in the bedroom. The forward-tilt position is not only handy for use at a desk but also helps straighten the pelvis and spine improving circulation to the abdominal and back muscles.
THOMAS HEATHERWICK Thomas Heatherwick, perhaps the UK’s most famous designer, designs across multiple industries with apparent ease. Nothing seems out of his reach – the past five years have seen him designing furniture, 39
[homes & interiors ]
THE WONDERS OF WHITSTABLE AT
WESTBAY COURT Just five miles north of the historic City of Canterbury on the North Kent Coast, this charming, picturesque seaside town really is one of the jewel’s in Kent’s crown. Famed for its oysters, Whitstable also boasts many thriving independent retailers, restaurants, cafes and bars. A quick stroll down the vibrant High Street to the glorious harbour and beaches beyond is enough to make you understand why Whitstable is becoming an increasingly desirable place to live. Add to this the fact the high speed link to London (St Pancras) takes approximately 72 minutes from the mainline railway station at Whitstable, and that it takes well under an hour to Folkestone Channel Tunnel and Dover’s Ferry links, then it’s no wonder Whitstable is attracting more attention than ever. With this in mind, we would highly recommend any potential inhabitants check out the stunning new development at WestBay Court set right in the heart of the town centre. The development, which comprises
40
eight apartments and a luxury penthouse, has been fashioned from what was originally a 1960’s five storey commercial building and has been transformed into luxurious, bright, living spaces right in the heart of one of the UK’s most fashionable seaside towns, for those seeking the ultimate lifestyle experience. Inside the building, each floor has curved walls to the communal corridors and polished original parquet flooring giving the property a fresh modern feel whilst maintaining links with the original building. The higher you go, the better the views become, with all the two bedroom apartments boasting Juliet balconies which dramatically bring the sunlight in. No longer will days on the beach mean a long drive home afterwards, and with plenty of top notch restaurants and bars within walking distance you can fill up on food and fun on the short walk home.
If eating in is your thing then you’ll appreciate the high spec kitchens in all WestBay Court’s apartments. With granite surfaces, Miele oven, hob and microwaves, Smeg sink, Brita filter taps and stone worktops throughout, cooking will never be a chore. The standard of specification is consistently high throughout with state of the art sanitary ware in the bathrooms, fantastic interior design, gas central heating, video door entry systems, and a communal lift to all floors. With prices starting from just £160,000, this really is affordable luxury! To request a brochure, please call either: Christopher Hodgson tel: 01227 266441 www.christopherhodgson.co.uk
Strutt & Parker tel: 01227 451123 www.struttandparker.com
41
Kitchens to suit every individual taste and lifestyle.
ATTENTION TO DETAIL AS STANDARD.
42
FRESCO
CALL NOW 01233 645530
Unit 15, Heron Business Centre, Henwood, Ashford, Kent TN24 8DH
Roma is a leading kitchen specialist who, alongside expert design flair, provide a unique project management and fitting service. Your kitchen will be provided on time, as specified and fitted by professional and highly qualified tradesmen.
Visit our showroom Mon - Fri............................... 9am - 5pm Sat ......................................... 10am - 4pm 01233 645530 Unit 15, Heron Business Centre, Henwood, Ashford, Kent TN24 8DH
www.roma-interiors.co.uk
43
0800 0742 721 sbiproducts.co.uk
STAIRLIFTS • WALKERS • SCOOTERS • WHEELCHAIRS
Specialist conservatory shading products
instore
l
online
mobile
Visit our showrooms:
156 Tankerton Road, Tankerton, Kent CT5 2AW.
01227 907003 NO CALL OUT FEES SERVICE ONLY £39.99 EX VAT 131 Canterbury Road, Westbrook, Kent CT9 5BD • 01843 292136
Country Warmth Top quality fireplaces from a top quality company
Traditional to ultra modern • Established 30 years Full design & installation service througout the south east 1-3 Sandgate High Street, Sandgate, Kent • 01303 240300 www.countrywarmth.com • GAS SAFE, HETAS 44
l
SERVICING • RISE & RECLINERS • DAILY LIVING AIDS
Glass Verandas with traditional or modern looks. Remote control awnings and large patio covers.
www.1stchoicemobility.co.uk
COLLECTABLES
D A N 20 Cliff Terrace, Margate CT9 1RU I 01843 292 417 S 07428 370 291 H info@danishcollectables.co.uk
www.danishcollectables.co.uk
Family run business offering a wide range of construction and landscaping solutions throughout Kent and the South East Construction • Extension • Resin Bound Surfaces • Synthetic Grass • Landscaping Call now to arrange you free no obligation quote on 0800 802 1400 www.thomasmewsltd.com
46
[cover story ]
Matt Damon
A self-confessed family man, father of three Matt Damon is famous for playing super-charged action heroes and neurotic geniuses on screen, but real life is a much more about studious work, hard grafting and the significance of true companionship to achieve his goals. 47
[cover story ] Damon, 45, has enjoyed almost two decades of movie stardom and is revered for his taking on a diverse range of films, from off-beat cult movies, gritty legal dramas to budget-blowing action motion pictures, and even trying his hand at producing. Damon, born in 1970 in Cambridge, Massachusetts was the youngest son of Kent Damon, a stockbroker and Nancy Carlsson-Paige, an early childhood education professor. His older brother Kyle Damon, is a sculptor and artist. Damon’s parents divorced when he was two years old and Nancy took her two sons to live in a communal house, resided by six other families in Cambridge. At ten years old Damon met his life-long friend, Ben Affleck, whose companionship who would shape the future of the young star. The pair met when they lived in the same neighbourhood in Cambridge and quickly became firm friends. They spent their childhood and teen years playing baseball and fantasy adventure game Dungeons and Dragons and event attended the Cambridge Rindge and Latin School, known for its famous alumni including poet EE Cummings and composer Leroy Anderson. The friends performed in many high school productions, although Damon insisted that Affleck was the more successful of the two and stated that he got the biggest roles and longest speeches as a result. Damon studied English at Harvard University in 1988 and during his
Alicia Vikander, Matt Damon and Julia Stiles attend the Jason Bourne film premiere on Jul 11, 2016 in London
time appeared in many plays and productions. At the age of 18 Damon made his film debut with a minor role in romantic comedy, Mystic Pizza. The popular coming of age film starring Julia Roberts was an important shift into the film industry for Damon, despite only delivering one line of dialogue throughout the whole movie. Damon left Harvard in 1992 without fully completing his education. The actor was only 12 credits away from finishing his course when he decided to sacrifice his studies to appear in the movie Geronimo: An American Legend starring Gene Hackman. Despite his certainty that the movie would be a hit,
Ben Affleck and Matt Damon 48
it failed to make an impact and became known as a box office bomb. Damon’s next film appearance was as medic and opium addict Specialist Andrew Ilario in the Gulf War movie, Courage Under Fire in 1996. Damon proved his passion and dedication to the project by losing 40 pounds (18 kilograms) with a strict white food diet and a gruelling exercise regime. Damon’s resilience shone throughout and his efforts were noticed by some high-profile directors who saw potential in the young star. During his time at Harvard, Damon had teamed up with best friend Affleck to write the screenplay to Good Will Hunting. The initial script started as a university assignment but grew to become a movie screenplay with the help of directors Rob Reiner, Kevin Smith and screenwriter William Goldman. The screenplay, about a talented but troubled maths genius who develops a close bond with his therapist was made into a movie in 1997 starring Damon and comedy legend Robin Williams in the titular roles. The film received nine Academy Award nominations and the screenwriting duo won an Oscar and Golden Globe for Best Screenplay. Following the success of Good Will Hunting, Damon landed the leading role in Francis Ford Coppola’s The
[cover story ] Rainmaker, also released in 1997. The director offered the role to Damon after seeing the his impressive acting repertoire in Courage Under Fire. The Rainmaker, an adaptation of John Grisham’s novel was praised for its faithfulness to the book and Damon’s portrayal of the penniless underdog lawyer taking on a fraudulent insurance company caught the eye of popular director Stephen Spielberg. In 1998 Damon was cast in Spielberg’s epic World War II movie, Saving Private Ryan alongside established film stars Tom Hanks,Vin Diesel and Edward Burns. The film, revered for its accurate depiction of the Allied Normandy invasions in 1944 was a critical and commercial success, the highest grossing film of the year and helped the revival of interest of World War II, particularly amongst younger generations. Damon’s performance as the missing soldier helped boost the young actor’s credibility. Known for his portrayal of hyper intelligent, yet emotionally unbalanced characters, Damon took on the role of Tom Ripley in The Talented Mr Ripley in 1999. The story of a poverty-stricken young man who succumbs to trickery, deceit and eventually murder was a box office hit and displayed Damon’s unique ability to transition on-screen from an innocent, naïve boy to coldblooded criminal.
George Clooney, Brad Pitt and Julia Roberts in the popular Ocean’s Eleven franchise. From 2002 to 2007 he took the pivotal role of amnesiac assassin Jason Bourne in the action-packed Bourne trilogy. Both movie franchises were an instant success and confirmed Damon’s proficiency to play both intellectual prodigies and agile action heroes. Despite selecting hugely popular film franchises during the 2000s, Damon also appeared in some poorly chosen movies. In 2002 he played a conjoined twin in slapstick comedy Stuck on You and a fictional version of Wilhelm Grimm in 2005’s The Brothers Grimm. Damon’s best stand-alone film of the decade was in Martin Scorsese’s’ crime drama, The Departed in 2006. Damon’s next most memorable role was as scientist Dr Mann in Chris Nolan’s science fiction thriller, Interstellar in 2014. Following a space expedition trend, Damon took the lead as wise-cracking biologist and astronaut Mark Watney who gets stranded on the planet Mars in Ridley Scott’s The Martian released in 2015. The film, based on a best-selling novel earned Damon a Golden Globe for Best Actor in Motion Picture Musical or Comedy.
founded LivePlanet with Affleck and fellow producer Chris Moore and the company has created several successful movie projects, including the Emmynominated Project Greenlight which helps fund novice filmmakers. Affleck and Damon also created production company Pearl Street Films in 2010. Throughout his movie career, Damon has been linked to high profile women including Good Will Hunting co-star Minnie Driver, American film star Winona Ryder and Odessa Whitmore, former PA of Ben Affleck. Whilst filming the comedy Stuck on You, Damon met Argentinian bartender Luciana Bozán Barroso in Miami. The couple married in 2005 and have three daughters and one stepdaughter from Bozán Barroso’s previous marriage. Damon is set to reprise his famous role as American assassin in Jason Bourne, the fifth instalment of the Bourne franchise. The actor had previously voiced intentions not to continue the Bourne movies after the third movie (Jeremy Renner starred as lead character in The Bourne Legacy) but Damon and costar Julia Stiles are set to return to the screen when the fifth film is released this summer.
Aside from acting, Damon has gained credibility as a talented producer. He
In the same year, Damon reunited with director Kevin Smith and best friend Affleck to appear in satirical apocalyptic movie, Dogma. The film, written and directed by Smith starred Damon and Affleck as fallen angels who plot to find their way back into Heaven at all costs. The film, controversial for its portrayal of Catholicism became a cult hit and Damon was praised for his interpretation of the psychotic and bloodthirsty angel, Loki. Damon’s attempts as romantic hero were not as popular and his appearances in All the Pretty Horses and The Legend of Bagger Vance, both released in 2000 proved disappointing in box office sales. The 2000s were a prosperous decade for Damon who quickly became Hollywood blockbuster material. In 2001, 2004 and 2007 he starred as talented pickpocket Linus alongside
Matt Damon at gala premiere for his movie "Behind the Candelabra" at the 66th Festival de Cannes 49
Margate Theatres Summer 2016 Winter Gardens
Theatre Royal
Grease – The Musical
Aliens Love Underpants
28 Jul, 2016 - 30 Jul, 2016
2 Aug, 2016 - 3 Aug, 2016
Margate Soul Festival 2016
Wisdom of a Fool
5 Aug, 2016 - 7 Aug, 2016
5 Aug, 2016
A Night of Adele
Camp Rock, The Musical
11 Aug, 2016
6 Aug, 2016
LDN Wrestling
Down to Margate
12 Aug, 2016
Thank You For The Music presents the Ultimate Tribute to ABBA
10CC in Concert 1 Oct, 2016
Sixties Gold
13 Aug, 2016
7 Oct, 2016
SIMPLY THE BEST – The Tina Turner Experience
Level 42 – SIRENS II TOUR 2016
18 Aug, 2016
12 Oct, 2016
Still Drifting Rifting ft Ray Lewis former Lead Singer of THE DRIFTERS
SNOW WHITE
19 Aug, 2016
Whitney – Queen of The Night 26 Aug, 2016
10 Aug, 2016 - 20 Aug, 2016
Jay Rayner – The Ten (food) Commandments 21 Aug, 2016
Hamlet 7 Oct, 2016 - 8 Oct, 2016
Fire in the North Sky – Epic Tales from Finland 9 Oct, 2016
Miles Jupp – Songs of Freedom 12 Oct, 2016
14 Oct, 2016 - 15 Oct, 2016
Why the Whales Came 16 Oct, 2016
Kicking and Screaming 17 Oct, 2016
Puppetry Of The Penis 29 Oct, 2016
5 Nov, 2016
1 Oct, 2016
Shirley Valentine
13 Oct, 2016
Professor Brian Cox – Live
Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs 2 – The Magic Cutlass
Pride and Prejudice Princess & Superheroes Character Show
19 Oct, 2016
29 Aug, 2016
22 Oct, 2016
The Collector
JOE PASQUALE 30 Aug, 2016
The Magic of the Beatles 27 Aug, 2016
Sherry Babys – Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons Tribute 3 Sep, 2016
Kent School Games Cultural Celebration
Jim Davidson – 40 Years On 18 Nov, 2016
Here’s Hoping
Jimmy Carr The Best Of, Ultimate, Gold, Greatest Hits Tour
2 Sep, 2016 - 3 Sep, 2016
19 Nov, 2016
Russell Howard (Autumn 2016 warm up)
Albee Vector – The Sound Collector 23 Oct, 2016
TOYS 25 Oct, 2016
7 Sep, 2016 - 8 Sep, 2016
Operation Crucible
18 Sep, 2016
Heritage Open Days
27 Oct, 2016
10 Sep, 2016 - 11 Sep, 2016
The Music Makers – A Gordon and Joy Clarkson Production
Tell me Anything
Henning Wehn – Westphalia Is Not An Option
28 Sep, 2016
17 Sep, 2016
28 Oct, 2016
The Roundabout Festival 2016 22 Sep, 2016 - 25 Sep, 2016
Your Leisure working in partnership with:
Box O ce: 01843 292795 margatewintergardens.co.uk | theatreroyalmargate.com
LEAS CLIFF
[days out ]
LINE UP
Are you not entertained?! The new season of live entertainment at Folkestone’s Leas Cliff Hall is offering up a smorgasbord of great shows!
As ‘The Home of Live Entertainment in East Kent’, we have a quality programme of variety, theatre, comedy, dance & live music to match that title. This summer the Leas Cliff Hall proudly welcomes back Kidz on Stage with their adaptation of the classic, Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs. Showing from 25th – 27th August, come and experience this children’s drama project presentation with stunning sets, outstanding costumes, witty script and a cast of over 100 talented performers. The forthcoming season includes brand new comedy, live music, ballet, opera and some of the finest touring theatre productions on offer. Making their Folkestone debut are these
hit shows.Whitney: Queen of the Night, Some Guys Have All The Luck:The Rod Stewart Story and Totally Tina. A new line-up of hit-makers of the biggest 60’s tunes are back in The Sensational 60’s Experience; along with more music from true icons Petula Clark, Tony Christie,The Bay City Rollers with Les McKeown and The Manfreds. Global reggae stars UB40 make a return to Folkestone, as do chart topping hiphop duo Rizzle Kicks. Our comedy offering brings plenty of fresh new writings and faces to Folkestone’s biggest stage. From a ‘Galaxy Far, Far away’ comes the smash hit comedy One Man Star Wars Trilogy performed by Canadian actor Charles
Abba Reunion
“A very accurate and faithful portrayal, I’m flattered!” Richard Carpenter
The Carpenters Story 2 sept
One Man Star Wars Trilogy 21 sept The comedy smash hit from a Galaxy Far, Far Away! “It’s a joy – quite brilliant” Daily Telegraph
Ross. More brand new comedy comes from the hilarious Nina Conti with her many voices, comedic national treasure, Julian Clairy with new tour,The Joy of Mincing and the Aussie comedic genius Kevin Bloody Wilson. Our programme of great entertainment is ever changing! So keep an eye on ATGTICKETS.COM/FOLKESTONE for all the latest show announcements. We look forward to welcoming you to one of our many events at the Leas Cliff Hall over the coming month. To book please call the Box Office 0844 871 3015* Go online ATGTICKETS. COM/FOLKESTONE* or in person at the Venue Box Office (Mon – Sat. 9am to 5pm)
24 sept
Experience the worlds most requested ABBA tribute act.
Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular 3 sept
“Magnificent” BBC
Box Office 0844 871 3015
LEAS CLIFF HALL
The Leas, Folkestone CT20 2DZ
www.atgtickets.com/folkestone * (Bkg fee)
51
[title ]
52
[title ]
53
[title ]
54
The Lighthouse Bar Margate Harbour Arm Margate CT9 1AP 07980 727668.
Milo Bar & Eatery 15 The Parade Town Centre Margate CT9 1EY
Margate Art
6 Duke Street . CT9 1EP www.margateart.uk 01843 316042
FRESH WAFFLES WITH CHOCOLATE SAUCE LUXURY HOT CHOCOLATE
as you’ve never seen it before...
StUNNING VIEWS LOCAL ARTISTS GALLERY FREE WIFI BOOK SWAP CORNER @bschocbar facebook.com/bernieschocbar
OPEN EVERY DAY
2-14 High Street, Margate, CT9 1AT 01843 221 420
OPENING TIMES: Seasonal opening times. Please visit our Facebook page to keep up to date with our opening times. 16 Marine Drive, Margate, Kent CT9 1DH 01843-228228
A modern take on seaside tradition, serves lovingly handcrafted gelato just steps from Margate’s sandy beach. Made with delicious Guernsey milk, locally sourced cream and natural ingredients, our gelato offers a range of mouth-watering flavours for everyone to enjoy! Freshly prepared waffles, milkshakes, sundaes and beverages are also available in our vibrant and contemporary parlour.
TAPAS, BRICK OVEN PIZZAS & PLATTERS FRESH COFFEES, TEAS, WINES, CIDERS & BEERS www.woodysmargate.co.uk | 01843 293768 Woodys
/woodys margate
1 6 T H E PA R A D E , M A R G AT E O L D T O W N
55 advert_january.indd 1
21/01/2016 14:58
[title ]
56
Gallery Exhibitions Kathryn Rennie - Sketch Diary of the Canterbury Festival - Nov 2-5 Gordon Macqueen - Recollections of a Wedding - Aug - Sept Lorraine Wake
- Quiet Places - Oct - Nov
Life Drawing Classes Every 2nd Thursday of the Month 6.30 – 8.30pm All levels welcome £10 booking in advance (limited space)
Regular Art Courses In the historic heart of Canterbury Range of 1-5 day courses for practicing artists Adults, students and beginners
Private and Corporate Hire Medieval Events Live music
17 Palace Street Canterbury Kent CT1 2DZ 01227 472953 Conquest House kathryn@artincanterbury.co.uk
www.artincanterbury.co.uk
TRULY SCRUMPTIOUS AFTERNOON TEA AT EASTWELL MANOR
What could be more relaxing than stepping back in time and enjoying a delicious and traditional Afternoon Tea at Eastwell Manor? During the warmer summer months soothe the stresses away in the courtyard or on the terrace overlooking the superbly manicured lawns. When the days turn colder, and you need warming, snuggle up in front of a roaring log fire in one of the lounges. There are a number of Afternoon Tea options ranging from the Classic Eastwell Manor Afternoon Tea (£23.50) to the Pimm’s or Champagne options and, for special occasions, the Celebration. Whichever you chose all Afternoon Teas are made in house by the talented pastry chefs and include a selection of delicious,
home-made treats: a variety of savoury sandwiches; mouth-wateringly delicious cakes and pastries; hot scones with preserves and clotted cream. The selection changes frequently, according to the seasons.
On the last Friday of the month the resident pianist will entertain Afternoon Tea guests in the Manor Restaurant and, from time to time, he will be joined by talented local musicians.
Eastwell Manor has a full range of superb teas from around the world for you to try, all served in silver tea pots.
Vouchers available.
57
[food & drink ]
CURIOUSLY BY PETE NICHOLS
KENTISH
It’s been over a year since my last evening visit to Curiously Kentish, the café/delicatessen/supper club/foodie heaven, and it turns out that quite a lot can happen in a year…
Curiously Kentish started off as a “side line” business for the then Chef Patron of the ever popular “The Minnis” restaurant in Minnis Bay, Jason Freedman. Jason’s love of food went beyond creating dishes for the a la carte menu and he wanted to indulge in his passion for creating flavours, curing, smoking and saucing, and a such he decided to sell stand-alone produce. Already well versed on smoking and curing his own meats, making pickles, sauces, and other delicatessen produce, Jason began to create the “Curiously Kentish” brand. After selling The Minnis to Shepherd Neame last year, Jason had the time and the relative freedom to indulge in his “side line” a little more and, in fact, make it his “main line” if you will.Working alongside his nephew and partner Daniel, the pair have turned a former coffee shop on Minnis Road (just a few hundred
58
yards from his former restaurant) into a thriving café/deli selling a wide selection of their own hand-crafted produce alongside other local delicacies.They also do a mean artisan breakfast, hold a successful monthly supper club, and function as a successful bijou evening restaurant from Thursday – Saturday. In a little over a year the boys at CK have already won the Kent of Sunday Food & Drinks award for best Food Producer, are currently in the running for thus year’s prestigious Muddy Stilettos award for Best Food Producer in Kent, and recently provided dinner for guests of the 2016 Taste of Kent Awards.What a difference a year makes! Last time I came for dinner (for one of the ever popular monthly ‘supper clubs’) was a solo effort, so this time I decided to bring the family along with me. Luckily both the kids (5 and 11) are pretty good
eaters, and as CK serve some pretty good food, I knew we’d be ok! I’m always ravenous after a long day at work, and both kids were equally famished having been cruelly starved after school in order that they would take full advantage of our evening’s culinary offerings. If we’re eating together we decided we should, well, eat together, so we opted for a large sharing platter as our starter. More than enough to feed the four of us, the platter consisted of a selection of mouth-watering shop-cured and smoked produce including salt beef, chorizo and chorizo verde, venison salami, dry pancetta, smoked mackerel, smoked salmon as well as freshly made scotch eggs and sausage rolls.The fish and meats were accompanied by some wonderful Curiously Kentish pickles (cucumber,
[food & drink ]
cabbage, ploughmans, and piccalilli), a selection of cheeses, and some delicious farmhouse bread.
with ratatouille vegetables, tender stem broccoli and herby diced potatoes in a rich red wine jus.
more accurate I had the Seafood linguine, my daughter just had linguine with king prawns (come on, she is only five!).
Presented on a large serving board, the vibrant colours and amazing textures and flavours of the CK sharing platter are likely to ensure it keeps its place on what is an ever changing menu for the foreseeable future. Despite already asking for a little larger than average portion, my wife Jo insisted on “topping up” on the salt beef for seconds and thirds…
Our eleven year old braved the Merguez Sausage salad with honey smoked bacon, baby leaves, sundried tomatoes and olives. Unfortunately (for him, not me) the spicy sausage eventually became a little too much for his tender taste buds and I had to step up to the plate (literally), to make sure none of it went to waste!
Despite both adults claiming that we were way too full for dessert, after the children ordered theirs we had a sudden and mysterious change of heart.Three of us opted for the moreish apple crumble, which came with either vanilla or an amazing salted caramel ice cream, while the youngest just ordered the ice cream.
Both I and my daughter went for the Seafood linguine, a veritable feast which comprised king prawns, mussels, hake, chorizo, and Mediterranean veggies in a spicy tomato and chili sauce.Well, to be
Fit to burst we bade farewell to Jason and Danny until next time. Curiously Kentish is a little shop going big places; one of East Kent’s hidden foodie gems for sure. Produce with a passion. Perfect.
Luckily it wasn’t a case of “eyes bigger than her belly”, as Jo happily devoured her chosen main of Lamb Chump (from Monkshill farm, near Faversham) served
Kent’s Premier Burger Company D E A L
A NEW RANGE OF FINE FOODS PRODUCED
IN THE GARDEN OF ENGLAND 151 Minnis Road, Birchington, Kent, CT7 9NS 01843 841180 - Info.curiouslykentish.co.uk
f curiouslykentish l @curiouslykent
-
C A N T E R B U R Y
VOTED NUMBER 5 FOR BEST UK BURGER JOINT BY TRIP ADVISOR 2014 AND NUMBER 1 FOR KENT. burgerbrosuk burgerbros_uk @theburgerbros 59
[food & drink ]
ALFRESCO
DINING AT THE MINNIS BY PETE NICHOLS
Light Bites & Luscious Landscapes at The Minnis
It’s been a while since EKL have had time to stop off for a bite to eat at The Minnis at Minnis Bay near Birchington so what better way to reintroduce ourselves to the popular seaside eatery than a little lunchtime al fresco dining? Not wanting anything too heavy, we opted for a couple of starters alongside a small selection from the “Light Bites” section of the menu. For a starter I enjoyed some deliciously plump king prawns, pan fried in garlic, paprika and lime juice served with warm focaccia. Bursting with flavour, the prawns certainly whetted my appetite. Well-cooked seafood by the sea – bliss! The Minnis Bay Bar and Brasserie, which was taken over a year ago by Kent based brewery Shepherd Neame boasts an idyllic location overlooking one of the finest beaches on the North Kent Coast. As well as the pub-style wooden tables on the grass around the brasserie for patrons to take drinks and snacks there is also a sizeable outdoor dining terrace (seats 80), perfect for lunching on a clement summers day!
My dining companion also went prawn, opting for the prawn cocktail on cos lettuce with sundried tomatoes, served with plenty of brown bread and butter. The Light Bites menu is perfect for a couple sharing a light lunch, enough choice to enjoy a varied and tasty selection, but not too much as to confuse or complicate matters. On the advice of our friendly host we went for the home-baked garlic fougasse (a traditional French flatbread) with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping, accompanied by a bowl of chorizo with a honey glaze, and a hearty portion of sweet potato fries with a BBQ dip. The bread was superb, lots of surface area meaning lots of crispy crust, with a delightfully warm, fluffy centre.The chips were a tasty alternative to the traditional chip; but the real winner for me was the
60
chorizo.The honey glaze enhanced the powerful flavour of the Spanish sausage – it went amazingly well with the bread. For those looking for a more substantial feeding,The Minnis has a wide variety of main meals including “Pub Classics”, plenty of fish dishes, burgers, and a selection of the “Chef ’s Own” which include the likes of the chargrilled 28 day aged sirloin of Kentish beef, a duck and egg noodle stir fry, and an asparagus and pea ravioli.There are also a tempting selection of freshly made desserts which include a frangipane and blueberry tart, coffee and caramel brûlée and shortbread biscuit, and a white and dark chocolate brioche pudding. Whatever your fancy,The Minnis is equipped to fulfil it and while the summer still continues to grace our shores we can thoroughly recommend you take in the natural beauty of one of Britain’s best blue flag beaches from the comfort of one of East Kent’s finest al fresco dining spots.
The Minnis Bay
[title ]
Bar & Brasserie
Alfresco dining Stunning views of Minnis Bay Freshly brewed coee & teas Locally sourced, freshly prepared food Ice cream Great selection of local ales, international lagers and wines
The Parade, Birchington, Kent, CT7 9QP T: 01843 841844 - E: minnisbay@shepherd-neame.co.uk - W: www.theminnis.co.uk
61
[health & beauty ]
Renée's Health Food Tips
SUMMER TIME TREATS
BY RENÉE MAGUIRE
For useful advices and tips on a healthy balanced diet go to www.rawchifood.com You love it and equally dread it but it comes around again so fast, the kids summer holidays, accompanied with the aged old question, how do we occupy them for 6 whole weeks.? I just love getting my nieces involved in the kitchen and I’ll be sure to be carrying on the tradition with my own kids. My nieces thanks to their health conscious Daddy, start their day with a green smoothie. We’ve been making yummy healthy drinks together for so long that they can make the green smoothies with their eyes closed. I try to keep it fun and exciting by making raw chocolate shakes, strawberry Renée Maguire is a chef, raw nutrition coach, food writer and motivational healthy eating speaker. Through discovering the benefit of her own health improvements she has dedicated her work to helping others find a balance between the foods they love to eat and the foods their body needs. Renee writes for a variety of newspapers, magazines and blogs, and tours the country delivering inspirational motivational talks and food workshops to find out more visit www.rawchifood.com or email renee@ rawchifood.com PHOTOGRAPHY BY JO DORAN 62
smoothies, chocolate cookies and other fun treats. In my opinion, when children have made these goodies themselves, they often enjoy eating them far more than if you just try and offer them your health conscious treat. Here are a few of our favourite treats to make together CHOCOLATE COOKIES
These cookies are so quick and easy to make and I keep a stock of them all the time for when friends pop over for a cuppa with their little ones. Packed full of neurotransmitters, such as PEA, dopamine and serotonin, your little ones can enjoy a natural high without the sugar highs normally associated with sugar snacks.
STRAWBERRY MILK SHAKE
This is such a winner with kids. No dairy in sight, but every bit a strawberry or chocolate milkshake! If you wish to make it creamy, add some almond milk or flax milk rather than bottled water. To sneak some important Omegas into your child, I add a glug of good oil, and it actually offers a creamy texture, rich in Omega 3, 6 and 9. I promise they will never notice! INGREDIENTS: 450G STRAWBERRIES (KEEP THE TOPS ON FOR EXTRA NUTRIENTS) 1 BANANA 1 HANDFUL OF CASHEW NUTS
INGREDIENTS:
235ML WATER
150G CASHEW FLOUR
6 ICE CUBES (OPTIONAL)
100G OATS
1 DATE (OPTIONAL)
100G AGAVE SYRUP 1 /4 CINNAMON 1/4TSP HIMALAYAN SEA SALT 150G COCOA POWDER
METHOD:
1 Mix all ingredients in a food
processor, roll out the dough and cut the cookies into shapes
2 A good trick to rolling is to pop a
Teflon sheet over the top of dough and roll directly over top of sheet this stops stickin, then cut into shapes
3 Pop them in your oven at 50'C for
3-4 hours or until firm but fudge texture
METHOD:
1 Place all ingredients in a high speed
blender and blend until smooth (Add more water if needed for a smoother texture, pour in to two tall glasses and serve with a straw)
3 I often replace the strawberries with
a tablespoon of cacao powder to give a chocolate flavor and also a boost of magnesium to increase serotonin levels
For more of Renee’s recipes and tips go to www.rawchilifestyle.com where you can also order a copy of Renee’s Alchemy of Chocolate recipe book
The Belgian Cafe
The Belgian Cafe The BelgianRamsgate Cafe Ramsgate
Ramsgate
Humble Food Quality Beer Unique Atmosphere!
Humble Food Quality Humble Beer Food Unique Quality Atmosphere! Beer
Unique Atmosphere!
Open Daily From 7.30am to 2.30am (3am at Weekends) 98 Harbour Parade, Ramsgate CT118LP Telephone: 01843 587925
Open Daily From 7.30am to 2.30am (3am at Weekends) Open DailyParade, From Ramsgate 7.30amCT118LP to 2.30am (3am at Weekends) 98 Harbour Telephone: 01843 587925 98 Harbour Parade, Ramsgate CT118LP Telephone: 01843 587925
"KING OF BARS" 58 - 60 Harbour Parade Ramsgate Kent CT11 8LN Contact Us Any enquiries, please call us on
creators of Clique Bar
01843 587 505
RAMSGATE’S EXCLUSIVE BAR
LOCAL SEAFOOD h £10 Express Lunc 2 Courses Evening Dining
Open Mon, Wed - Sunday Free Parking Royal Harbour Brasserie 1-2.indd 1
06/03/2014 10:15
[food & drink ]
ALFRESCO DINING AT THE SECRET GARDEN
AFTERNOON TEA AT THE SECRET GARDEN MERSHAM-LE-HATCH
We simply couldn’t write an al fresco dining piece without a visit to one of EKL’s favourite foodie haunts, the wonderful Secret Garden in Mersham-le-hatch, on the outskirts of Ashford. Set in the wonderful Kent countryside in a charming converted 19th century coach house in an equally charming cobbled courtyard. As partial as I am to the a la carte offerings, our visit this time around was to sit in the sun and enjoy the tranquil surroundings accompanied by a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, home-baked cakes, and some ever-so naughty-but-nice scones with clotted cream and jam. Afternoon teas are a firm favourite among the patrons of the Secret Garden. So good are they in fact that the Secret Garden has been named by The Guardian as one the top 10 places to come in the UK for a Cream Tea! We decided to take our tea out on the sun terrace which overlooks the lush (and surprisingly large) Victorian walled garden. Sipping Earl Grey from a chintzy china tea-cup, you half expect to see a character from a Henry James or Jane Austen novel to be playing croquet on the lush lawn. It’s hard to believe you’re just a mile down the road from the M20. The garden isn’t just for show; 64
as well as earning its keep hosting events and weddings from the sizeable marquee the garden is also a working kitchen garden producing fruit, vegetables and cut flowers for the restaurant. The traditional afternoon tea is served on a three tiered stand. The bottom tier comprises sandwiches of home cooked ham and coarse grain mustard mayo, cucumber and cream cheese, smoked salmon and cream cheese, and egg mayonnaise and salad; the second “course” of home-baked warm fruit and plain scones served with clotted cream, jam and fresh fruit; and the top tier is reserved for a “Selection of Seasonal Fancies” (cream cakes, pastries, and other yummy sweet things!). With unlimited teas or coffee the £19.95 price tag (£25.95 with a glass of bubbles) the Secret Garden afternoon tea is a true Kentish treat. For those of you with an even sweeter tooth, the Secret Garden also offer a
“Chocolate Afternoon Tea” option, where the scones are chocolate chip, and the top tier comprises as election of mini chocolate cakes, desserts or pastries – all rounded off with the “Ultimate Hot Chocolate”. For those of you who can’t make the afternoon tea, the Secret Garden hold twice-monthly Kentish Evening Teas which include a few extra treats for just £22 a head. Enjoy summer while it lasts and soak up some traditional English fayre at the Secret Garden! For more information call 01233 501586, or visit www.secretgardenkent.co.uk
65
[food & drink ] BY LEE BEHAN
LEE BEHAN
PANKO COATED
SERVES 4
CHICKEN SCHNITZEL
Lee's love affair with food started at an early age, joining his Chef father in professional kitchens every spare weekend or holiday available. At the tender age of 13 he cooked dessert for a list of dignitaries which included HRH Princess Anne; opting for a seasonal Summer Pudding with clotted cream. As he notes himself "it involved no real cooking". Lee has had the opportunity to cook with many of the UK's leading chef's including Mark Hix, Anna Hansen MBE and Gizzie Erksine; celebrities such as actress and designer Sadie Frost, singer Boy George and Hollywood actor Stanley Tucci have all enjoyed Lee's food via varied & epic fundraising dinners.
Who doesn’t like fried chicken, juicy and crispy and finger linking good. Schnitz which means a slice or a cut, gives you a thin piece of meat which locks in its juiciness. I always serve mine with a fired egg and a little parmesan mixed through the breadcrumbs or Panko - Enjoy! INGREDIENTS: 1/2 CUP ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR 3 EGGS, BEATEN PLUS 4 FRIED EGGS 2 CUPS PANKO 4 SKINLESS, BONELESS CHICKEN BREAST HALVES (ABOUT 6 OUNCES EACH), BUTTERFLIED AND POUNDED 1/4-INCH-THICK SALT AND FRESHLY GROUND PEPPER 1/2 CUP SUNFLOWER OIL 30G PARMESAN 1 TABLESPOON CHOPPED PARSLEY
66
METHOD:
1 Set the flour, eggs, parmesan and
panko in three separate shallow bowls. Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper.
2 Dredge the chicken in the flour,
shaking off any excess, then dip in the eggs and coat thoroughly with the panko, pressing lightly to adhere.
3 In 2 large frying pans, heat 1/4 cup of
canola oil. Add the chicken and cook over moderately high heat, turning once, until golden and crispy, about 3 minutes per side.
4 Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-
lined baking sheet and sprinkle with salt, then transfer to plate.
5 Meanwhile, in another frying pan fry
4 eggs so the yolk is still runny.
6 Pop on top, sprinkle with parsley and
serve
Elsie Mo’s is a vibrant and unique dining experience located in the heart of Canterbury. A love letter to all things American, with delicious burgers, hot dogs, ribs and steaks, featuring Canterbury’s only smoker - even pop in for a 5 dollar shake, imported sodas or try one of our fifty imported craft beers. All our food is locally sourced and our sister restaurant, La Trappiste bakes all our tasty breads and desserts. We host monthly events such as jive, rock and roll bands, race nights, Quiz night and student nights. Please check our website and facebook for dates.
Showcasing the best that Kent has to offer TEL: (01843) 296808 contact@theoldkentmarket.com 8 Fort Hill @OldKentMarket
Elsie Mo’s has a fantastic atmosphere which will appeal to all generations. Come in and say hello to our friendly staff and enjoy an authentic American meal.
11 - 12 Burgate, Canterbury CT1 2HG. 01227 453034
/theoldkentmarket
Open 8am-6pm Tuesday to Sunday
...a brand-new continental-style bar in Broadstairs! Serving up refreshing draught craft beers with freshly cooked platters of locally caught fish and seafood.
Freshly Prepared and Cooked in the Open Kitchen Exclusive Craft Beers • Seafood & Beers also Available to Take-Away 37 Albion Street, Broadstairs CT10 1NE Tel: 01843 863003 • www.fishandbeerbroadstairs.co.uk
www.broadstairsfoodfestival.org.uk
67 BROADSTAIRS FOOD FESTIVAL – OCTOBER 2015 29
FAVERSHAM
NE
The Limes - Pub Dining & Ale House 59 Preston St, Faversham, ME13 8PG
tel: 01795 532007 www.thelimesonline.com
THE Captain Digby FAMILY PUB, RESTAURANT & CLIFFTOP BEER GARDEN
HOME-cooked food
All freshly prepared on site using local ingredients great coffee, excellent wine & superb real ale Indoor & outdoor Childrens ‘pirates’ playground Book now on: 01843 867 764 WWW.captaindigby.co.uk The Captain DIgby, WhitEness Road, Kingsgate, Broadstairs, Kent CT10 3QH
68
S
NER
W WO
[food & drink ]
DEV BISWAL
BY DEV BISWAL OF THE AMBRETTE
SERVES 2
DEV’S DOSAI
Dev Biswal grew up in Calcutta and trained at the Dubai Sheraton, before moving to London, aged 26 in 2003 for spells at Mangoes and Eriki. He became a partner in The Indian Princess in Margate in December 2006, becoming patron and rebranding it as The Ambrette in 2010. His second restaurant, The Ambrette @ Rye opened in November 2011, and a third Ambrette opened this July in Canterbury. The restaurants are recommended by all the country’s top restaurant guides, including Michelin, AA, Good Food and Harden’s Guide.
Try your hand at these delicious and light dosai. These southern-Indian style pancakes contain turmeric, a renowned anti-inflammatory and are served with gently spiced potatoes. A fantastic low effort dish, perfect for those warm summer nights. DOSAI PANCAKES 1 CUP WHITE RICE 2 TBSP VEGETABLE OIL 65G WHITE LENTILS 65G YELLOW LENTILS 1 TSP SUGAR SALT TO TASTE FILLING FOUR MEDIUM-SIZED POTATOES, BOILED THEN GRATED 1 TBSP RAPESEED OIL 1 TSP MUSTARD SEEDS 1/2TBSP GINGER, GRATED OR FINELY CHOPPED 1 SPRIG OF CURRY LEAF 1 /2 WHITE ONION, FINELY CHOPPED /2 FRESH GREEN CHILI, FINELY CHOPPED 1
1 TSP OF TURMERIC POWDER
1 TBSP FRESH CORIANDER LEAVES, FINELY CHOPPED
8 Season with salt and lemon juice and then set the filling aside.
JUICE OF LEMON
9 When ready to make the dosai, heat a nonstick frying pan over a medium heat.
SALT TO TASTE DISK OF PAPAYA OR OTHER TROPICAL FRUIT TO GARNISH METHOD
10 Pour one ladle of the dosai batter into the centre of the pan and spread in a circular motion using the back of the ladle. (Beware not to make the dosa too thin as this will cause it to burn).
1 Leave the lentils and rice to soak in water
11 Once batter is evenly spread drizzle with vegetable oil.
2 Blend into a thick creamy batter consistency.
12 Leave the batter to brown until outer edges begin to look dry, about 2 mins.
3 To make the filling, preheat oil in a frying pan and add the oil
13 Loosen the dosa with a spatular, the underside should be crisp and slightly browned.
overnight, with sugar and salt added.
4 Add the mustard seeds to the oil and wait until they start popping. 5 Add the curry leaves, then add the onion gently sauté until translucent. 6 Add the ginger and green chili, then the turmeric and cook for 3 minutes 7 Add the grated potato and cook for a further 8-10 minutes
14 Spoon half of the filling into a line in the centre of the un-browned side and fold the sides of the dosa around the filling to create a cylindrical shape. 15 Repeat for the second dosa, serve with fresh coriander, garnish with the fruit and enjoy!
WWW.THEAMBRETTE.CO.UK 69
THE
C H A R L E S CD D I C K E N S PUB, KITCHEN & DINING ROOMS
FRESHLY PREPARED FOOD LOCAL LY SOURCED INGREDIENTS NEW MENU EVERY DAY AW A R D W I N N I N G BROADSTAIRS GASTRO PUB ST U NNING V IE W S AC RO SS V IK ING BAY & B ROA DST A IRS HA RB O U R B O O K N OW O N : 0 1 8 4 3 6 0 3 0 4 0 W W W .C H A R L E S D I C K E N S B R O A D S T A I R S .C O . U K THE CHARLES DICKENS, 5-6 VICTORIA PARADE, BROADSTAIRS, KENT CT10 1QS
Fri 30th September to Sun 2nd October www.broadstairsfoodfestival.org.uk @broadstairsfoodfestival #broadiefoodfest 01843 871102
FREE ENTRY Assistance Dogs Only : thank you.
70
[travel ]
E K L
T RAV E L
S P E C I A L :
BY EKL TRAVEL EDITOR JAILLAN YEHIA
THE REAL LIFE BREXIT BUNCH Brits who backed away from life in the UK well before Brexit tell us their travel tales - and explain what life is really like as an English expat in destinations as varied as Vienna and Vancouver.
However you may feel about last month’s historic Brexit vote, the EU referendum had one undisputed result: it inspired more Brits than ever before to look into moving overseas.
THE MEXITER: KATJA GASKELL LEFT SOMERSET AND NOW LIVES IN MEXICO CITY
away and the booze cupboard emptied in anticipation of (another) ‘dry’ January, England loses some of its sparkle. And I think, ‘who am I kidding? I couldn’t afford to live here even if I wanted to’.
Internet searches on relocating anywhere from Scotland and Ireland to Australia and Canada have skyrocketed post-brexit, and the changing face of Europe has caused a lot of Britons to ask ourselves if England is as pleasant as we had thought - or if pastures greener and newer might have more to offer us and our families.
I consider myself lucky. On almost every one of my last visits to London I’ve enjoyed sunshine and blue skies. Granted, I tend to visit during the summer months or in December; two season when London shines.
We left the UK almost 11 years ago. My then fiancé and I packed our few belongings into a couple of boxes and headed to Australia where we lived a lovely life of clichés; an apartment with views of Bondi Beach, a BBQ on the balcony and weekends spent jumping the waves or, occasionally, trying to surf them.
So our travel editor Jaillan Yehia asked a variety of British expats what it’s really like to do what many Britons are now dreaming of - give life in Blighty a wide berth, and be forever English while living on foreign soil.
Here’s what they had to say:
At both these times of year – the long, dreamy July days or during the crisp cold of Christmas – I think to myself, ‘yes, I could definitely live in England again!’ But then I pay a small fortune for a cup of coffee and squeeze myself onto the Northern line and I remember that London is not always like this. Once the fairy lights have been packed
Work opportunities beckoned and we left after three years, married and with one child in tow. From Sydney we moved to New Delhi, India. A scene change that was as dramatic as it sounds.We spent three years there, had a second baby, and then travelled half-way 71
[travel ]
round the world to set up home in another megacity.This time in Mexico.
Find out more about Katja and her family’s travels at globetotting.com
For the last four and a half years we have called Mexico City home - and we love it. Oh, and we’ve had another baby.
THE NEW ZEALAND ZEALOT: YORK-BORN ARIANWEN MORRIS FELL IN LOVE WITH LIFE DOWN UNDER Back in 2014, I found myself living in Australia and New Zealand and loved them both. I was originally attracted to NZ by the beautiful scenery and adventure sports, and neither let me down.Within days of my arrival I'd crossed bungy jumping from my list of life goals, performing a controlled base jump from the top of Auckland's tallest building.
Do we miss home? Well we definitely miss our families and friends.Trips back to the UK are a frantic rush to try and spend as much time with them all as possible. But do we miss life in England? Well, it’s hard to be too homesick when it’s sunny almost all the time: owing to its elevated position, Mexico City enjoys mild, pleasant weather almost year-round.
Over the weeks that followed, I found myself white water rafting, canyoning, caving, sledging, skiing, jet boating, skydiving, glacier hiking, and piloting a stunt plane in figure eights and loop the loops. I cruised through the canyons and cascades of Milford Sound, sailed with whales and dolphins in Kaikoura, watched seal pups play in the woods, kayaked through
Add to this fantastic food, friendly people and a vibrant, colourful (and occasionally chaotic) city that’s fascinating to explore and the advantage of good, affordable schooling (our kids are growing up bilingual) as well as affordable help at home and it’s really hard to think why we would want to swap the Mexican sol for the grey skies of England. I’m sure one day we’ll return to England, but it won’t be any time soon. For the moment, we are quite happy sipping margaritas in Mexico.
72
ARIANWEN
[travel ]
BECKI
secluded coves, scuba dived with sharks, and splashed through glowworm-speckled caves. There is no doubt that New Zealand offers more than the UK in terms of adventure. It's an adult's playground set in a fairytale backdrop, and that's far from the only reason it beats England. In a post-Brexit Britain where our news channels are filled with stories of economic decline and broken political promises, Antipodean journalists are dealing with escaped parrots and mavericks who make fishing boats out of caravans. The people are friendlier, the sun more prominent, and the small scale of everything simply adorable. Forget the six degrees of separation, here everyone knows everyone else and they can - and will - pull in a favour if you need it. New Zealand is simply a more laid back, chilled out, fun place to live, with a less intense pace of life. If you're still not convinced, you only need to look at the evidence: the World Happiness Report has consistently ranked New Zealand among the top 10 happiest countries on the planet while the UK came 23rd in 2016, and that was before Brexit.
The Mercer Quality of Life study has listed Auckland as the third best city to live in for the past few years, while London barely scraped the top 40.
Not willing to pay the steep prices for rent in London (when I am always out on the road for work) I moved to Athens for 14 months.
48.1 per cent of us were unhappy with the referendum result and, while they say if you can't beat them, join them, I think it's probably best to run away instead…in this case to the furthest inhabitable point.
Despite being a great and culturally rich city, it sadly lacked any significant expat or digital nomad scene as many left after the economic crisis.
Follow Ari’s adventures at beyondblighty.com
THE EU ENTHUSIAST: LONDONER BECKI ENRIGHT ADORES LIFE IN AUSTRIA I've always been curious about living abroad, and after two years living and working on the road I decided to 'settle' in Europe and utilise the freedom of movement we have in the EU - it makes things easier without the restrictions of visas, and the cross-network of systems such as healthcare, as well as being on a wellconnected continent logistically.
So I recently moved to Vienna – where rent is less than half of that in London if you look hard enough. Vienna is also a more efficient base from which to run a business, wins awards for being the best-expat city to live in yearupon-year and expat life generally and weekly events and networking are thriving here. With Brexit comes uncertainty in a region where I've enjoyed living in different cultures every couple of years - but I'm lucky that I can apply for an Irish passport and regain the benefits of the EU’s free movement that I've always taken for granted. 73
[travel ]
JAILLAN
I want to ensure I can continue to live a lifestyle of movement and change within my beloved Europe. Read Becki’s blog at bordersofadventure.com
THE CANADA DREAMER: JAILLAN YEHIA LIVES IN LONDON BUT HAS A BASE IN BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA I’ve been using BC as a north American base for 3 years, and while I’m not a real ‘expat’ in the true sense of the word, my life as a travel writer, blogger and editor means it helps to have a place to call home on both sides of the pond. I’ve spent so much time in BC now that I understand the nuances of life here versus life in the UK and still find the little differences endlessly fascinating - and I can 100% understand why so many people are Googling moving to Canada post-Brexit. When I first came to Canada on an assignment I likened it to the Jim Carey movie The Truman Show - life appeared incredibly simple, everything looked so
much easier, more pleasant and upbeat than the cliches we have about grey and grumbly England, and I stand by my assessment that life is more straightforward in Canada compared to England. While nothing will ever take away my sense of patriotism for my country, I have
fully embraced some of the benefits of BC life and would recommend them wholeheartedly: above all I love the mountains, the scenery and the scale of everything in Canada - what’s not to love about fresh clean air and being surrounded by vast swathes of world-beating views? As an extension of that I have totally and utterly fallen in love with camping - something which I avoided like the plague in Blighty because the small scale of England means that even though you’re sleeping in a tent there’s a town or village just minutes away. In Canada camping really means getting out into the wilderness and that sense of peace and isolation is addictive - and for travellers the unfathomable size of the destination is hard to grasp, though it can be both a blessing and a curse. In a two-week holiday you could barely even scratch the surface of one tiny corner of one province of Canada - making it
74
[travel ] luckily it's at about 4pm when I'm in the office anyway. Eating here, too, is as cheap as chips.Well, actually, chips are the more expensive option; if you eat like a local - that is, curry and rice or a big bowl of noodles in a street restaurant known as a 'mamak' - you can get a delicious meal for roughly £1.
SIMON
an endless playground to explore, and making the idea of moving here even more tantalising as that’s the only way to see more than a fraction of what’s on offer. I do miss the culture, history and sometimes the hustle and bustle of England when I’m away - as well as the sense of humour, but I’ve learned that one thing England and Canada have in common is the tendency for politeness.
This is still true for the area where I live, which is the equivalent of London's West End, called Bukit Bintang, which is amazing for my social life (although less great for my liver). Somewhat weirdly, alcohol is comparable in price to England - but that hurts the wallet a lot less because you've saved so much on the essentials (bills and sustenance). And I like booze so I don't mind paying for it.
It's a premium you pay for drinking in a Muslim country and who am I to argue against that? There are plenty of other countries that just ban alcohol, so forking out a few extra ringgits to compensate for my sins seems fair. KL is also a brilliant home base for a short stopover in Asia; it's wonderfully central so a trip to India only takes four hours and Bali three, all thanks to AirAsia which is, as cheap airlines go, absolutely top notch. You can drive to Singapore in four hours if the traffic gods are on your side - so you can have a weekend trip to the city state if you fancy or you can take an overnight bus to paradise on earth: Kapas Island. Recently, Malaysia's politicians have been massively in the spotlight it’s true, but let’s face it the post-Brexit aftermath has definitely not reflected well on Britain's leaders either. Simon is a freelance writer and can be contacted at siwillmore.com
If you pull a map out in Vancouver 10 people will stop to ask if you need help and I’m happy to be one of those people. Jaillan writes about Canada - and destinations around the world - at savoirthere.com
SWAPPING MALAISE FOR MALAYSIA: WORCESTER NATIVE SIMON WILLMORE IS KEEN ON THE LIFESTYLE IN KUALA LUMPUR Before I was offered a job in Kuala Lumpur, I had never even considered visiting - let alone living in - Malaysia. Now I'm here, it's hard to believe anyone would not want to try it out. Whereas in England it costs six quid to buy a sandwich, and you practically have to sell a kidney if you want to live anywhere decent, rent and food in Malaysia are amazingly cheap. I spend the equivalent of just £200 a month on accommodation, and my condo has a pool, a sauna and a squash court. Even if I had my own pool in the UK, I would never use it because the weather is so *reader, insert your own word here*. In Malaysia, there are three seasons: hot, very hot, and hot and wet. Even in the monsoon season, there'll be a serious storm for a few hours every day but normally and 75
[fashion ]
MARKS AND SPENCER: LIMITED EDITION JUMPER, £35; LIMITED EDITION SKIRT, £45; BAG, £35. AVAILABLE FROM MARKS AND SPENCER, CANTERBURY.
76
[fashion ] MARKS AND SPENCER: M&S COLLECTION DRESS, £49.50; SHOES, £19.50; M&S COLLECTION BAG, £49.50. AVAILABLE FROM MARKS AND SPENCER, CANTERBURY.
MARKS AND SPENCER: AUTOGRAPH COAT, £169; AUTOGRAPH TOP, £69; AUTOGRAPH JUMPER, £25; AUTOGRAPH TROUSERS, £59; M&S COLLECTION SHOES, £29.50; AUTOGRAPH BAG, £99. AVAILABLE FROM MARKS AND SPENCER, CANTERBURY.
77
[ fashion ]
PHASE EIGHT: ADDISON STRIPE DRESS, £150. AVAILABLE FROM PHASE EIGHT IN THE MARLOWE ARCADE, CANTERBURY.
78
[fashion ] PHASE EIGHT: ROSINA STRIPE DRESS, £160. AVAILABLE FROM PHASE EIGHT IN THE MARLOWE ARCADE, CANTERBURY.
PHASE EIGHT: ABIA DRESS, £110. AVAILABLE FROM PHASE EIGHT IN THE MARLOWE ARCADE, CANTERBURY.
79
[fashion ] PRIMARK UK: JACKET, £18; BLOUSE, £18; TROUSERS, £13; BAG, £7; SHOES, £12. AVAILABLE FROM PRIMARK IN THE MARLOWE ARCADE, CANTERBURY.
80
[fashion ]
PRIMARK UK: DRESS, £13; BELT, £3; BOOTS, £22. AVAILABLE FROM PRIMARK IN THE MARLOWE ARCADE, CANTERBURY.
81
[fashion ]
82
PRIMARK UK: BOMBER JACKET, £16; DRESS, £14; CHOKER, £1.50; TRAINERS, £10. AVAILABLE FROM PRIMARK IN THE MARLOWE ARCADE, CANTERBURY.
[fashion ]
WHITE STUFF: PAINTERS TUNIC, £49.95. AVAILABLE FROM WHITE STUFF IN WHITEFRIARS STREET, CANTERBURY.
83
[fashion ]
WHITE STUFF: SECRET GARDEN DRESS, £59.95. AVAILABLE FROM WHITE STUFF IN WHITEFRIARS STREET, CANTERBURY.
84
[fashion ]
WHITE STUFF: SUZANNA JERSEY DRESS, £55. AVAILABLE FROM WHITE STUFF IN WHITEFRIARS STREET, CANTERBURY.
85
For further information or queries, please call us on:
01227 772176
www.purebythesea.co.uk
86
[health & beauty]
KEEP YOUR PETS
COOL THIS SUMMER
AS THE SUMMER FINALLY FINDS ITS WAY TO THE EAST KENT COAST PLENTY OF BRITONS WILL BE DELIGHTED THE WEATHER IS TURNING FOR THE BETTER. HOWEVER, JUST AS MANY PEOPLE FIND THE HEAT UNCOMFORTABLE, OUR ANIMALS CAN SUFFER FROM HEAT AND SUN RELATED ISSUES SUCH AS DEHYDRATION AND SUNBURN
MedicAnimal, the UK’s leading online pet healthcare retailer, has put together some handy tips for owners to take into consideration during the hot weather. Andrew Bucher, co-founder and Chief Veterinary Officer at MedicAnimal, commented:While enjoying the sunshine, we must make sure that our pets are comfortable and happy too as they can overheat extremely quickly. Here are some tips I’ve pulled together which you should consider this summer.” 1) Water: It is vital that dogs and cats have a constant access to fresh water. If you are out, make sure there is plenty of water to last until you return; for example you could buy a bigger water bowl or place more than one around the house. Additionally, if your dog is out and about with you, make sure you take water and a bowl with you; 2) Shade: Dogs and cats can overheat very quickly as they only sweat through their feet pads.To help regulate body temperature, dogs will pant. If your dog is outside or panting ensure they have a cool place to go. Remember, brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs cannot pant as effectively which can make it harder to cool themselves down;
3) High temperatures:When the temperature reaches anything above 30 degrees we would not advise taking pets outside. They should remain inside, cool, with plenty of fresh water; 4) Cooling: If outside in the garden, use a water sprinkler or shallow bathing pool for your pets to cool themselves down; 5) Exercising: Dogs need to be walked but save these for early in the day and the evening when the air is cooler and choose shaded areas to walk; 6) Cars: Never leave your dog in the car, even if the windows are left open.The temperature inside the car can very quickly double that of the outside air temperature; 7) Check on them:When the temperatures are warm, you should check on your dogs and cats often. If there are any signs of being too hot, make sure they are moved to a cool area and have access to water. If any heavy panting or signs of heatstroke continue, contact your vet. 87
MMP are Chartered Certified Accountants situated in Broadstairs. We are well placed to provide expert knowledge and friendly advice for businesses and individuals.
SERVICES IN BROADSTAIRS
Beautiful renewal of vows and baby welcoming ceremonies anywhere in Kent A stylish ceremony anywhere in Kent. From a castle to a hotel, a beach or your own house or back garden...
• Accounts
• Financial Planning
We will help you to formulate your perfect bespoke ceremony and our Celebrant will travel to the venue of your choice.
• Audit
• Payroll and PAYE
Packages can include engraved silverware, gift wrapped Champagne and ‘Order of Ceremony’ Cards.
• Business Tax
• Self Assessment
• Exit and Succession Planning
• VAT
We can also offer other bespoke additions such as a TV celebrity event stylist, cutting edge photography, bespoke cake making or perhaps a string quartet?
OPENING HOURS: Mondays to Thursdays: 9am to 5pm Fridays: 8:30am to 4pm Weekends: Closed Broadstairs Business Centre 64 High Street Broadstairs Kent CT10 1JT
Call us on Freephone 0800 024 8932 ceremonies@bespoke-in-kent.co.uk www.bespoke-in-kent.co.uk
Phone: 01843 608081 Email: ian@mmpaudit.co.uk
www.mmpaudit.co.uk
HAIRSTYLIST
since 1972
MALCOLMS 91 High Street | Broadstairs | Kent
Modern & Traditional Men’s Hairstyling Appointments Optional
01843 865230 / 864256 88
[health & beauty ]
STYLING TIPS BY BOBBY GORDON OF FELLA, CANTERBURY
Over the past few years here at Fella we have seen the beard come back into fashion in a big way amongst our clients. With lots of different types of oils and balms on the market we’re delighted to have found a cracking new local brand to partner up with. Whit & Stubble, created by Whitstable based Mark Jackson is available at Fella in Canterbury with all products priced at a very reasonable £7. Check out Mark’s story and products below. WHIT & STUBBLE – MARK JACKSON
I moved to Whitstable about a year ago, but the idea for beard oils and balms started before the move. I have had some sort of facial hair for as long as I can remember but I could never get past the itchy stage. So naturally I looked into beard oils and tried a few, but they were quite expensive, which got me thinking, could I produce a high quality product for a lower price?
All of our oils and balms are made from completely natural ingredients.There are no chemicals just simple, natural beard care products.With five different blends, there is something for every bearded man. As to the future, we are currently working to expand the balms to three different brands and also a beard soap too!
WHY USE BEARD OIL? • Beard oil moisturizes facial hair and the skin beneath • Beard oil is hydrating to the skin and helps soften and tame beard hair • Beard oil enables those with longer, fuller beards to style their creation
I sat for many hours for nights on end before and after my move to Whitstable, looking at ideas for oils and balms, starting with basic recipes, then developing my own blends. By the start of December Whit & Stubble was born, starting with three beard oil blends, it soon became five and then our first beard balm as well.
Fella is the destination for sharp haircuts. Founded in 2009 by Bobby Gordon, who had previously worked in some of Soho’s hottest hair joints for over 15 years. Fella is located in the heart of Canterbury & brings a unique boutique feel to the barber shop experience like no other in the area. With no appointment necessary & late night openings you can kick back & listen to some cool beats whilst one of the expert stylists take care of you. Fella has a highly trained & skilled team who pride themselves on grooming for the modern man.
89
Co-educational, Co-educational,day day&&boarding boardingschool schoolfor for3-18 3-18years yearsininSouth SouthEast EastEngland England
With small class sizes and exceptional facilities, St Lawrence College provides outstanding opportunities for all pupils academically, in sport and in the arts.
Junior School Open Day: Friday 30 September 2016 Senior School Open Day: Saturday 1 October 2016 T: 01843 572931
E: admissions@slcuk.com
www.slcuk.com
St Lawrence College, College Road, Ramsgate, Kent CT11 7AE
MALE GROOMING SALON CANTERBURY'S PREMIER BARBERS & MALE GROOMING SALON 20A LOWER BRIDGE STREET
MON-WEDS 09:30-18:30 CANTERBURY CT1 2LG
THURS 09:30-19:30 FRI 09:30-20:00 SAT 09:00 -17:00 T : 01227 806225 90
[education ]
ST LAWRENCE INVESTING IN COLLEGE THE FUTURE St Lawrence College has been providing an outstanding education for pupils since 1879. However, the popular Ramsgate school has never stood still when it comes to investing in its future.
Earlier this year a state-of the art water-based hockey pitch was opened by Olympic GB Hockey gold medal winner, East Kent-born Sean Kerly. Past and present St Lawrence hockey players joined local teams from Canterbury and Cliftonville in an exciting mini tournament. The fully-floodlit pitch has been supported by Kent County Council as a great asset for not only the school, but the wider local community too.
The site is being further landscaped to include new cricket and rugby pitches sheltered by trees thanks to a generous donation by The Woodland Trust. Future plans include a sports pavilion to finish off the development. Whilst sport has always played an important and high profile part in the school’s history, it is the increased focus on academic standards and the arts which Principal, Antony Spencer, is particularly proud of: “We are continuing to push academic standards ever higher, with the current
Upper Sixth holding very good offers of places at top universities including Oxford and Cambridge.
At a time when arts funding in many schools is being cut, we value the importance of creative subjects and are able to offer A levels in Art and Design, Photography, Design Technology (Product Design), Music, Music Technology, Drama and Theatre Studies. Summer 2016 will see work begin on a new Science, Design Technology and Art School.”
www.slcuk.com
St Lawrence College has enjoyed a proud tradition of hockey success spanning over 130 years, and is once again becoming known regionally and even nationally for its hockey achievements. The school currently has five international hockey players on its coaching staff, including Kwan Browne (current England U21 men’s coach). Eleven pupils currently play for Kent, several play regionally and one at international level. 91
[title ]
Kent College is a Great Place to Learn • Idyllic surroundings • An adventurous curriculum • The adventure starts at 3
Call Today 01227 762 436 Find out more at KENTCOLLEGE.COM
92
[education ]
KENT COLLEGE JUNIOR SCHOOL, WHERE
EXCELLENCE IS A HABIT
“EXCELLENT TEACHING IS EFFECTIVE IN PROMOTING PUPILS’ PROGRESS” Our exciting programme of accelerated learning gathers pace at the start of year two, where all the pupils are taught in groups based on their ability and potential in Maths and English rather than their chronological age.This allows all children to progress at a pace that is challenging and interesting. All children study a foreign language from Reception. At the age of nine they are given a choice of languages and embark on a scheme that gives them the opportunity to flourish at an age where language acquisition is strongest.These programmes are supported by an ICT programme that sees all children taught by specialists and having facility to use iPads to broaden their experience of learning and progressing. “Pupils learning and achievement throughout the school are excellent. They have a particularly positive attitude to learning, think critically, reason logically and work well both co-operatively and independently. They enjoy a high level of success academically and also in sport, music and other extra curricular pursuits.” Our GREAT (Gifted, Really Enthusiastic, Able and Talented) Programme along with a wide variety of after school clubs and activities encourages all children to aim for excellence from a wide range of opportunities.These programmes are taught by specialist teachers and enable many pupils to raise their self-esteem and
rise to challenges that before had been just a dream. Our sports teams compete in national competitions and achieve regular national and county success. Our choirs and orchestra are admired by all and recently appeared on national television in the Finals of the BBC Choir of the Year Competition and regularly perform at major venues. Drama and Dance shows show high levels of achievement and entertain their audiences in the school performance hall. Pupils demonstrate excellent personal development throughout the school. They are self-confident and demonstrate high self-esteem. All children are encouraged to make decisions and all are given leadership opportunities. Residential experiences play a crucial part in developing independence and all children in Years five and six are offered termly sports tours plus an outdoor adventure trip and a cultural tour. In addition to this there is an annual choir tour.These visits enable children to broaden their horizons, learn cooperation and take responsibility.
enjoyable challenges delivered by caring teachers who make learning fun in our idyllic rural environment. Leadership has a clear vision for the future, contributing strongly to the pupils’ academic progress and personal development At Kent College, we never stand still, each day brings new opportunities and new challenges.The world our children will go into as they become adults is changing and developing at an ever faster pace.To serve them well, we have to prepare them for the many varied challenges and at present unknown challenges that lie ahead of them KENT COLLEGE CANTERBURY: INDEPENDENT SCHOOL SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM OF THE YEAR 2015 “Times Educational Supplement Annual Awards”
EVERY DAY IS AN OPEN DAY
Staff provide excellent pastoral guidance and support, ensuring that pupils are happy, feel safe, demonstrate high levels of conduct and relate well with one another and the staff. Happy children achieve more and each child is encouraged to love attending school, every day brings a variety of 93
[education ]
END OF YEAR CELEBRATIONS AT ST EDMUND’S SCHOOL CANTERBURY The pupils at St Edmund’s School Canterbury celebrated the end of another academic year in many ways including a triathlon, the annual Art and Design Exhibition, an array of musical concerts, a Summer Ball and culminating with Speech and Prize Giving events. The Head of Pre-Prep, the Head of Junior School and the Head of Senior School praised all pupils aged 3 – 18 on their achievements and successes over the past year from academic results to sports results, from sell-out drama productions to public art exhibitions. At the Senior School Prize Giving presentation, the Head of St Edmund’s, Louise Moelwyn-Hughes, gave her report on the year and took the
opportunity to remind the audience of the school’s principal features:
for GCSE and A level subjects proving the order of the day. “
“Grade 2 listed buildings it may have, a history which stretches back to 1749, a commitment to good old fashioned values and an appreciation of a religious heritage. But equally importantly it is an inherently forward looking, aspirational, flexible and ever-changing community. As the Greek philosopher Heraclitus said, ‘hodos ano kato’ – ‘the way up and the way down are one and the same’.”
Amidst the distribution of prizes, the guests enjoyed contributions from pupils: an entertaining medley from the cast of ‘I’ve Got No Strings’, stunning solo performances from Emily Hopper on harp and Timon Staehler on piano, and finally a heartfelt speech from School Captain, Bella Ford, about her school years at St Edmund’s.
She then went on to announce that “Today the school is the largest it has been in its 267 year history, with pupil numbers in both day and boarding continuing to burgeon and waiting lists
Be all you can be St Ed’s is a school where every pupil is connected by a love of learning, the pursuit of possibility and the challenge of being the very best they can be.
01227 475601 | www.stedmunds.org.uk
94
Open Day | Saturday 1st October
[education ]
WRITTEN BY LORNA MORRIS
There’s no denying it - technology is changing our world dramatically. There’s an app for (nearly) everything nowadays - you can even go on augmented reality treasure hunts and battles for Pokemon with your smart phone. As a child I never could have imagined something like this would become a reality during my lifetime but I’m all for it. Computer games that get kids outside and moving - brilliant! But that’s just the current tip of the iceberg. Technology is impacting our lives in so many ways. Social media is making the world a significantly smaller place to live, the troubles halfway across the world no longer feel like they are halfway across the world. It’s possible to be in Australia and work for a company based in the UK whilst accessing their servers and Skyping into meetings.You can crowd fund to develop products, launch campaigns and support causes. It’s amazing but a little daunting at the same time. In Kent we are very lucky to have easy access to London with the high speed train - even if it does cost a small fortune - and I feel very lucky to be able to go up to the big smoke at the drop of a hat for client meetings. But sometimes I wish I had a network a bit closer to home. A group of people who are interested in the changes going on in the world today and want to meet others to discuss our swiftly evolving environment. The Kent Collective aims to bridge this gap by bringing together the talented and inquisitive working professionals
of East Kent and engaging them with each other. On the last Wednesday of every month the team puts together a free meet up around an issue that is prevelant - topics include the 21st century career, health, technology, social issues and the environment. Two speakers will discuss their experience around the issue and this is followed by open discussions and a bit of a social for the attendees. Fortunately it’s an easy stroll across the road for commuters arriving at Ashford International to International House. For those working more locally the parking outside is free after 6pm with the talks kicking off at 6.30pm. Places for the event are limited and free tickets for each monthly sessions can be reserved through the website: http://kentcollective.co.uk/ The Kent Collective is a FREE event on the last Wednesday of every month for inquisitive working professionals in Ashford to meet other forward thinking local people and learn new things from some fantastic speakers 95
?
[what's occurring ]
occurring July & August
Friday 29th July
Goldie Lookin’ Chain @ Ramsgate Music Hall
The Legends Of GLC tour is on. Newport to Ramsgate… Eggsy & Rhys with dj Killer Tom will take the stage on Friday 29th July. Welsh rap in full effect…the venue will be a wash with Shell Suits and dapper rapping. Not to be missed. Hear classics like: ‘Guns don’t kill people, rappers do’, ‘Your mothers got a penis’ and our personal fav ‘Half Man Half Machine’ Genius… you knows it! From 7.30pm Tickets: £15 go to www.ramsgatemusichall.com for more details
Friday 5th- Friday 12th August Broadstairs Folk Week @ Broadstairs Town The always popular Broadstairs Folk Week brings throngs of locals, holidaymakers and live music enthusiasts eager to get involved in the atmosphere, revelry and ample refreshments offered at this week long celebration of folk music, dance, storytelling with events & concerts taking place all over town. Visit www.broadstairsfolkweek.org.uk or call 01843 604080 for more details
Friday 5th – Sunday 7th August Margate Soul Festival @ Margate Harbour Margate Soul Festival is the Kent’s signature soul music festival held in and around the picturesque Margate Harbour with a huge outdoor arena overlooking the sea at the rear of Margate Winter Gardens Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year it will offer a unique combination of ticketed large-scale outdoor live shows, free family friendly street performances, DJ led carnival street parties and the most eclectic mix of club night life
96
starting at 8pm. The event is spread across multiple venues, situated around the Harbour including 7 venues catering for a selection of musical tastes each with their own special atmosphere to create arguably the best soul inspired festival in the country. For more info and ticket prices where needed call 01843 448595 or visit ww.margatesoulfestival.co.uk
Sunday 7th August & Sunday 4th September Birds & Beasts Sundays With BBQ @ Eastwell Manor, Boughton Leas, nr Ashford If your children love animals and you are looking for them to enjoy something a little bit different, exciting and lots of fun – why not treat them to a Birds & Beasts experience at Eastwell Manor this summer? It’s a weird and wonderful party with hedgehogs and hawks, snakes and vultures, tarantulas and bugs. The children assist as much as possible, under expert guidance. Ideal for everyone aged five and above, a breath-taking experience. Price: £20 per person including 3 course BBQ lunch at the Pavilion restaurant with live jazz, £10 for under 12’s Call: 01233 213020 or email: reservations@eastwellmanor. co.uk
Monday 15th August Falconry Experience Day @ Eastwell Manor, nr Ashford Guests will have the opportunity of flying and interacting with a range of Bird of Prey including a Barn Owl, Hooded Vulture, Harris Hawk, Eagle Owl and an Eagle during the morning before heading back for a three course lunch in either The Manor or Pavilion restaurants. Guests also have the change of flying the birds in the grounds of the Manor and being photographed with them. Price: £50 per person (£30 for the under 12’s) including lunch. Call: 01233 213020 or email: reservations@ eastwellmanor. co.uk
[what's occurring ]
Saturday 20th August Hiphop night with Grandmaster Flash @ Dreamland Margate Part of Dreamland’s ‘Twilight Sessions’ Rock N Roll Fame inductee and Hip Hop legend DJ Grandmaster Flash will be taking over the bandstand with his unrivalled DJ skills. Responsible for creating one of the earliest and greatest rap groups of all time, he is the perfect person to take us through a night of Hip Hop at Dreamland. For more info go to: www.dreamland.co.uk or call 01843 295887
Sunday 21st August
August & September
Jay Rayner, The Ten (Food) Commandments @ Margate Theatre Royal The original Ten Commandments have very little to offer when it comes to the complex business of how and what we eat. Now the award-winning restaurant critic and Masterchef judge Jay Rayner has decided it’s time to act. So join our very own culinary Moses in this audio-visual romp as he attempts to lead us to the edible Promised Land. He’ll explain why thou shalt always eat with thy hands, why thou should most definitely worship leftovers, and why thou must celebrate the stinkiest of foods. From 7pm Tickets from £10 available from Box Office on 01843 292795 or visit www.theatreroyalmargate.com
Friday 9th – Sunday 11th September Wheels & Fins Festival @ Joss Bay Beach, Broadstair The ‘Wheels and Fins Festival’, is a FREE, three-day, music, action sports & beach festival located on Joss Bay Beach in Broadstairs. The festival includes events such as; Soapbox Racing, Skateboard Mini Ramp comp, UK BMX flatland champs, Surf & Stand up Paddleboard events, Trail Bike Display Teams, Mad Drop Air Bag, Slacklining, Fireworks, Live Music, Dj’s, Licensed Bars, Craft Beers, Food Court, Merchandise stalls and more. Tickets free from www.eventbrite.co.uk or for more info go to www.wheelsandfins.co.uk
Thursday 15th September Christian O'Connell: You've Ruined My Morning...And Other Fan Mail @ Hazlitt Theatre, Maidstone Christian O'Connell has collected multiple radio awards as a national Breakfast show DJ for 16 years. He's also collected multiple death threats, hate mail and abusive complaints. He's collected them all for you to hear in this show. You'll be stunned at what people actually complain about! Follow his journey from teenage mixtape maker to awardwinning DJ. Off the back of last season's 'Sold Out' national tour, in this, his third stand-up show, enter Christian's world of A-list weirdos, offended clowns and angry cat lovers. Tickets: £16.50 call 01622 75861 or visit www. parkwoodtheatres.co.uk From 7.30pm
Sunday 18th September Kent School Games Cultural Celebration @ Winter Gardens, Margate
Saturday 27th – Sunday 28th August Cider Festival @ Brogdale Farm, Faversham Meet the makers and sample artisan ciders at the Brogdale Artisan Cider Festival on August Bank Holiday weekend. Try something different from an extensive range of over 50 local and artisan ciders. Choose the soundtrack to your festival from soulful acoustics, old country folk or rhythm and boogie with bands playing all weekend. Festival entertainment includes something for the whole family with trifle eating competitions, talks, demonstrations and a foraging tent. Lots for little festival goers too including rural crafts, a live bug roadshow, games and kite flying. Enjoy hot local food or browse and buy from the local craft and produce village. Tours of the orchards will be running all weekend.
The Cultural Celebration, which is the sister event to the enormously successful Kent School Games and is sponsored by Kent County Council (KCC), will take place at the Winter Gardens in Margate on 18th September this year. It is set to provide a showcase for local talent as well as celebrate inclusion and diversity. The Cultural Celebration provides a platform and an outlet for a large number of young people aged between 5 and 21yrs, for many of whom this form of self-expression is, quite simply, life changing. The Cultural Celebration embraces music, dance, animation and visual art. For more info go to: www.kentschoolgames.com/cultural-celebration
FREE Shuttle bus running from Faversham Station to Brogdale throughout the weekend. More information and discounted tickets at Cider Festival Kent 97
[east kent business ]
BRIAN THOMAS
OF THOMAS MEWS LTD
Thomas Mews Ltd is a family business in Manston run by father and son Brian and Grant Thomas who offer what they call a “from planning to planting” service, which covers every aspect of construction and landscaping. EKL caught up with Brian to pose him a few questions for our readers. HI BRIAN, HOW’S BUSINESS?
It’s flourishing actually, in all aspects. We’ve got big jobs on in construction, loft conversions and groundworks. Also the landscaping side of the business is going really well as far as patios, synthetic grass and our resin bound driveways are concerned. We operate all over Kent and occasionally beyond. HOW DID YOU GET YOUR START IN THE BUSINESS?
Pretty much at the deep end. I had bought some land in Ramsgate which I’d done nothing with for years and after moving back to Kent from Spain decided I ought to do something with it so I decided to become a developer and built three houses on the land. I called them “Thomas Mews” – hence the company name now! YOU JUST “DECIDED TO BECOME A DEVELOPER?
Yeah! (laughs). Well, I suppose you’d really have called me a project manager, that was (and is) my strength. It was my job to find the talent to do the job for me. It was certainly a steep learning curve and I found out pretty quickly that a) don’t trust anyone until they’ve earned that trust and b) if you find someone good, do everything you can to keep them happy – or at least keep them! Luckily as time has gone on I’ve learned a fair bit about the various trades myself and can quickly spot talent. Also, Grant has been working with me since he was 15 and has a distinction in bricklaying, so he’s instrumental in the construction business and knows what we need in terms of a good worker. WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST LESSON YOU LEARNED FROM THAT INITIAL EXPERIENCE?
Like I said, to value good workers. Now at Thomas Mews all our staff are on P.A.Y.E. rather than self-employed contractors. We want them to feel invested in the business and having 98
them on the pay roll with paid holidays and permanent contracts gives them a sense of security. It lets them know they are valued. It goes without saying that without customers you don’t have a business, but in my line of work, without good, loyal workers you won’t have a business for very long. SO BUSINESS HAS BEEN GOOD FROM DAY 1?
Well it was from day 1, but it’s certainly not all been plain sailing. A few years ago we had a major setback. My company at the time was called, ironically enough, Secure Foundations. To cut a long and painful story short, we were working on foundations of some huge basements and were hit with some epic storms and torrential rain which flooded the cavernous spaces we were working on. The water literally created two huge underground swimming pools 3.5m deep and the client had only given us a 4 inch manhole, so extracting the water was nigh-on impossible. The job was costing me thousands and thousands a week and eventually sunk the business as the debt spiralled – it was all totally out of our control and so, so unlucky. It was a hellish time and it was a sad end to what was a great business, but I’m proud to say that I’ve worked hard to repay the debts – I know only too well what it’s like to be left high and dry after a company you have used go under and resurfaces with a new name as if nothing has happened. I took on a huge personal liability and was lucky and grateful to come out the other side. THAT’S WHEN THOMAS MEWS WAS BORN?
Yes, well it seemed apt to go back to where it all came from, the houses I built in Ramsgate, Thomas Mews. Those houses paved the way for everything myself and Grant have achieved since so what else could I call the business? To see some examples of Brian and Grant’s work go to www.thomasmewsltd.com
K E N T ’ S L E A D I N G C O U N T R Y H O U S E H O T E L & S PA
Tel: 01233 213020
|
Email: enquiries@eastwellmanor.co.uk
|
Ea stwel l Pa r k , B oug hton Lees, Ashford, Kent TN 2 5 4 HR
www.eastwellmanor.co.uk
Discover the very best of Bang & Olufsen in our new world-class showroom in Canterbury.
Customer parking available
Designed to stimulate your senses in a new environment dedicated to a world of sound & vision. Bang & Olufsen creates exceptional audio and video experiences for your home like no-one else. Now you’ll be able to hear and feel this exquisite craftsmanship up-close like never before.
1 Beer Cart Lane, Canterbury, Kent CT1 2NY Call: 01227 452451 Email: canterbury@bang-olufsen.co.uk www.bang-olufsen.com/canterbury
SPECIAL OFFER Buy any pair of Bang & Olufsen speakers and get an Essence Music System free of charge! Visit our showroom and bring this ad with you to be entered into our prize draw.