Kent by Fish Media Group Ltd

EDITORS LETTER Hello and welcome to the Spring Kitchen Special issue

s the weather improves many of our readers thoughts are turning to improving their homes, so we are pleased to include the Spring Kitchen Supplement as our main feature and on the front cover this month. The front cover image is from the superb Neptune Tonbridge collection. Our Special Kitchen Supplement has a wide variety of highly informed and informative articles. We highlight the very best local kitchen specialists who are ready, willing and very able for you to consult for advice, tips, ideas and suggestions before you decide which kitchen and kitchen accessories are right for your home. So if you are looking to renew or revitalise your kitchen we are sure that you will find the perfect local company in this supplement.

The Ridings Woodﬁeld Lane Essendon, Herts AL9 6JJ Tel : 0844 800 8439 Fax : 01707 655 718 www.thelifemagazines.com Email: peter@ﬁshmediagroup.co.uk Editor Faye Manning Assistant Editor Katie Miller Sub Editor Alex Lux Fashion Editor Kitty Shead

In the March issue we are, once again, encouraging you and your family to get out and about more this Spring. We have highlighted a wide variety of local events and venues including – Chiddingstone Castle, Family entertainment at Chatham Dockyards, the Ightham Mote, Ballet at the Orchard Theatre, Forest Live Shows at Tunbridge Wells, Spring walks and as usual a wide variety of events and shows in our Whats On guide. As you will see there is so much for you to read and enjoy this month.

Until next month……….

Contributors Maureen Cole John Ruler John Bly Bruce Edwards Jack Smith Regan Maloney Design & Production Creative Bonfire hello@creativebonfire.co.uk Photography Adam Swaine Accounts Kathy Manning Ken Fleet Business Development Managers Tim Lees Lisa Westerman SALES Vanessa Lane Anita Hill DIRECTORS Peter Smith Rory Smith Patrick Smith

All Rights reserved. All Fish Media Group Ltd magazines are copyright and cannot be reproduced in any form either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers. Whilst Fish Media Group Ltd takes every reasonable precaution, no responsibility can be accepted for any property, services or products offered in any of our publications and any loss arising. Whilst every care is taken with all materials submitted to all of our magazines the publisher cannot accept the loss or damage to such material. The Fish Media Group Ltd reserves the right to reject or accept any advertisement, article or material prior to publication. Opinions expressed are strictly those of the authors and do not necessarily repr sent the views or policies of Fish Media Group Ltd. We accept no liability for any misprints or mistakes and no responsibility can be accepted for the content of these pages.

You will be pleased to know that you and your friends can now read our magazines online at www.thelifemagazines.com

To advertise contact: Tim Lees on 07944 129393 or Peter on 077111 43342 or email Tim on tim@fishmediagroup.co.uk

LOCAL EVENTS

Whats On... MARCH 2016

Penshurst Vintage & Antiques Fair Come and find fashionable vintage and antique treasures in charming Penshurst. Enjoy delicious tea and cakes with Rose and Olive’s Vintage pop up tea room. Entrance £1.50. Starts 10.30am - 5pm each day. Sat 26 Mon 28 March 2016. Penshurst Village Hall, Penshurst, Kent, TN11 8BP. Tel: 07507 876637. Tonbridge RSPB local group quiz night A fun quiz evening in aid of the RSPB. But we promise, no bird questions! Your ticket price includes an excellent fish and chip or ploughman’ supper prepared on site by Hadlow College’s kitchens. Bring your own drinks and glasses. There is plenty of free parking. Doors open at 7 pm for a 7.30 pm start. The cost is £14 per person. A popular event, so book early! Sat 16 Apr 2016. Hadlow College, Hadlow, Kent TN1 1OA. Tel: 01732 350732 www.rspb.org.uk/groups/tonbridge/events Thomas the Tank Engine and friends T O N The ever-popular TO BE Thomas the Tank Engine returns to the Spa Valley E H T THOMAS GINE Railway. Thomas N E TANK D will be joined AN by some of his S D N IE FR friends from the famous Railway Series, including Daisy and Diesel, plus some of their Spa Valley friends including Vulcan and Walkden. Join your train at Tunbridge Wells West to be hauled down the 4 mile branch line by one of Thomas’s Spa Valley friends where you will discover Thomas at his country station, Ffarquhar. You will spend around an hour at Ffarquhar, including meeting Thomas and the Fat Controller. Watch Thomas shunting trucks or taking part in story re-enactments before returning to Tunbridge Wells again hauled by one of Thomas’s friends. See web site for full details of times and prices. Tunbridge Wells West station Neville Terrace, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 5QY. Sat 9, 10,16 and 17 April 2016. Tel: 01892 537715. www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk

MISSED!!!

Penns in the Rocks - Open Garden for NGS Large garden with spectacular outcrop of rocks, lake, C18 temple and woods. Daffodils, bluebells, azaleas, magnolias and tulips. Old walled garden with herbaceous borders, roses and shrubs. House (not open) part C18. Walls recently restored by Richard and Columba Strachey. Sun 17 Apr and Sun 15 May. Admission £5, Children free. Home-made teas. Times:14:00 to 18:00. Telephone:01892 864244. Visits also by arrangement. Open for charity. Penns in the Rocks, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 9PA. Tel: 01892 864244. www.pennsintherocks.co.uk

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Scotney Castle - Winter estate walk Join our volunteer estate guides on a walk across the Scotney Castle estate taking in the key features of the estates’ history. A National Trust Event - Start times vary. General Admission Prices Apply. Booking Not Needed. Sat 12 to 18 March 2016. Meet in the courtyard outside visitor reception. Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 8JN. Tel: 01892 893 868. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events Oxted Operatic Society – The King and I Travelling to the exotic kingdom of Siam, English schoolteacher Anna Leonowens soon discovers her most difficult challenge is the King himself. Tues 12th – Sat 16th April 2.30 Sat & 7.30. Tickets £12.00 - £15.00 available from www.barntheatreoxted.co.uk or 01883 331400. Commedia Productions – Carmen With a roar from the bullring, Bizet sets the stage alight with the story of opera’s most notorious femme fatale. (sung in English). Fri 22nd - Sat 23rd April. 7.30. Tickets £16.00 - £20.00. available from www. barntheatreoxted.co.uk or 01959 561811.15a High Street, Westerham, Kent, TN16 1RA. Oldbury Hill Fort ghost hunt Experience a night of ghost hunting at Oldbury Hill Fort with Ghost Hunt Events. Participate in Séances, Vigils, EVP Experiments and much more. This is a serious overnight ghost hunt (paranormal investigation), and is conducted with our team of professional Mediums and paranormal investigators. Tickets £20 per person. Over 16s only. Start time: 11pm until 2am. Maximum of 12 tickets Book at www.ghosthuntevents. co.uk/oldbury-hill-fort.php Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0HB. Friday 25 Mar 2016. Tel: 07092 981121 www.ghosthuntevents.co.uk/ Forget Me Not Coffee Morning We are holding a coffee morning every first Friday of the month from 5th Feb 2016. Our coffee morning started in May 2015 as in the area there is no coffee morning about dementia and where for people to go so we opened this and get carers and families who are looking after someone with dementia for someone to talk to and offer wide of information about dementia and let other carers and families meet people to talk to. There will be Sue Cope who will be tinkling the piano, tea coffee and cakes, raffle and there will be special guests from Paul Manners from Britain’s got talent who will be popping in to support us who has throughout last year. Methodist Church, Hurst Green, Oxted, Surrey, RH8 0HG. Fri 4 Mar, Fri 1 Apr. Tel: 01883 818469. coffeemorning3.wix.com/coffeemorning#!stalls-/c1rjy

Exhibition of Watercolours by Eugen Gorean at the Portico Gallery This talented young Moldovan artist has been dazzling audiences at exhibitions across Europe, Russia, US and most recently China. Initially studying watercolour techniques at Plamadeala College of Arts, Eugen graduated at The Academy of Fine Arts, Chisinau, Moldova in 2014. The paintings in the exhibition feature striking urban scenes from iconic European cities including London, Venice and Paris as well as rural scenes and animal studies. Sat 5 Mar to Sat 30 Apr 2016. Open 10.00 -5pm. Tues to Sat. Free Entry. Portico Gallery, 25 London Road, Riverhead, Kent, TN13 2BU. Tel: 01732 456655. Beckenham Folk Dance Club is one of Kent’s premier Folk Dance Clubs Come and join the revival of the English Folk Dance. A lively evening of English and Contra Folk dance every Friday night in Beckenham. Come alone or with a partner. New members always welcome. A selection of recorded or live music. Don’t sit at home on a Friday night, come out and enjoy yourself make new friends. Age is unimportant a good sense of fun is. 8pm - 10.30. £3.00 recorded music . Special nights £6.00 with live music and food. St Barnabas Church Hall, Perth Rd, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 6PP. Fri 4, 11, 18, 25 March. Fri 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 April. Tel: Beryl 0208 462 4071. Chislehurst Farmers Market Is held on the 3rd Sunday of the month and is open to the public between 10am and 2pm. Produce includes seasonal. Free Entry. Contact: 07775 736116. Hornbrook House Car Park, High Street, Chislehurst, Kent, BR7 5AB. Sun 20 Mar 2016. www.myfarmersmarket.co.uk Gingham Goose Craft Market Aims to promote ethical shopping by encouraging the purchase of locally produced, handmade products of good quality instead of mass produced and extensively transported goods. A high quality monthly craft and food market with a popular tea room serving homemade cakes, soups & savouries, etc. Handmade jewellery, unique cards, pretty textiles, plants & flower arrangements, beautiful pottery & ceramics, unique cards & paper crafts, scented candles, homemade soaps & cosmetics, hand-painted silk, embroidery, tapestry & quilting, lovely knitting & crochet, glasswork, woodwork, original art, mirrors, frames and more! Free entry.10:30am – 4.00pm. 16th April and 21st May. Hayes Village Hall, Hayes Street, Hayes, Bromley, Kent, BR2 7LH. Tel: 07534 447988 Marvellous Mosaic Making at Crofton Roman Villa Discover all there is to know about Roman mosaics and make your own mosaic to take home! For up to 11 year olds. No booking needed. Children to be accompanied. Email: crofton.roman.villa@gmail. com Web: www.the-cka.fsnet.co.uk Parking available off York Road. Villa adjacent Orpington Station. Sessions at 10.30am and 2pm. Entry £4 per child, adult carer free. Wed 30 March. 1st, 6th and 8th April. Crofton Roman Villa, Crofton Road, Orpington, Kent, BR6 8AF. Tel: 01689 860939 Thomas Ashby concert One night only gig by a wonderful young talent, singer/guitarist with a future. 8.00pm – 22.30pm. Tickets £10. Licenced premises with bottled beers and wine. Panacea Coffee House, Orpington, High St, Kent, BR6 0JW. Sat 19 Mar 2016.Tel: 07801 089375 Invicta Tatters Annual Tatting Day Beginners and Experienced Tatters are all welcome. Competition - Celtic Tatting, used in a coaster or on a greetings card. Speaker: Mrs Jennifer Williams (Chairman of The Ring of Tatters 2008 - 2015) is holding a Workshop on Tatting Techniques - Daisy Picots. Please bring a packed lunch, Tea and Coffee available. 10.00 am to 3.30 pm. Tickets £5.00. Orpington Baptist Church, Upper Hall, Tower Road, Orpington, Kent, BR6 0SQ. Sat 2 Apr 2016. Tel: 07787 555 083

CONTENTS 68

EDITORS LETTER

WHATS ON

LOCAL LIFE Nature & Art at Ightham Mote Tom Jones at Forest Live A Woman of Genius Exhibition Sleeping Beauty – My first Ballet Local mature student wins Archaeological Prize Chatham Dockyard Family Entertainment Looking Forward to Spring with Adam Swaine

10 12 14 16 18 20 22

Interview. Tom Jones – The Musical at the Churchill Theatre 24 Chiddingstone Castle – Literary Festival

A look back at Kent’s famous artists with John Ruler

Interview - My Grandmother wrote the Mousetrap!

London Fashion Week Highlights

Rowhill Grange Hotel and Spa

Fashion – Get a Feel for Folk

Sevenoaks Pilates Studio

Spotlight on Opera at the Churchill Theatre

KITCHEN SPECIAL 20 PAGE SUPPLEMENT

HOME AND GARDEN Grey’s Anatomy Garden Rooms and Orangeries with Evolution Windows Red House Architects The Ultimate Home Improvement Morso Fires make the difference Hamiltons International Interior Designers are back Homeleigh – Your local Timber and Builders Merchant

68 72 74 76 78 80 82

TRAVEL - Afar and away in East Africa

BOOKS REVIEW with Bruce Edwards

Thomas Dunton – Local Solicitors

FOOD AND DRINK Time to smarten up your meal times with Davina McCall Regan Maloney’s Restaurant Review

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LOCAL LIFE

Nature Art New exhibition at Ightham Mote this year Ightham Mote, a picturesque medieval moated manor house in Kent, restored by the National Trust over 20 years, featured in a special Time Team programme and in Country Life magazine. It was described by the architectural editor as ‘most beguiling’.

ver 700 years the property has been owned and rented by various notable families – and, in the 19th century, by two gentleman artists – the renowned naturalist Prideaux John Selby – who produced ‘Illustrations of British Ornithology’ (one illustration pictured) - and Charles La Trobe, the first Lieutenant Governor of Victoria in Australia. Ightham Mote is part of a wider estate with great natural and man-made beauty, and this year the property team and volunteers decided to focus an exhibition on these men - entitled ‘Nature & Art: Reflections on Two Gentleman Artists’ - which explores their lives and work in relation to Ightham Mote and its gardens. The exhibition includes some of their work and a watercolour artist, John Wiltshire is running workshops for visitors –John’s own work focuses on the 19th century watercolour techniques – and his art has been chosen and exhibited at the RA Summer exhibition- winning first prize from the Royal Watercolour Society. The exhibition, opened on 29th February and runs until 30th October. THE DETAILS Further details at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ighthammote

10 MARCH 2016 | www.thelifemagazines.com

LOCAL LIFE

Tom Jones

announces Forest Live dates Tom Jones has announced shows as part of Forest Live, the summer concert series promoted by the Forestry Commission.

om Jones’ remarkable career has gone show traverses musical eras and genres, cuts across from strength to strength. Along class divides, appealing to young and old, male and with sustaining his popularity as a female, mainstream and cutting edge. FROM Y live performer and recording artist Commenting on the dates, Tom Jones said, A D R U T A S for over five decades, he has garnered the best “What a lovely experience this is going to be. I 26 reviews of his career for his recently released respect and admire the whole idea of Forest Live MARCH albums ‘Spirit In The Room’ and ‘Praise & and hope you can join me to be a part of it.” Blame’. Forest Live is an independent programme Jones has a fundamental interest in a wide organised by the Forestry Commission to bring forests range of music. Although he is well known for hits to new audiences. Income generated from ticket sales is including ‘It’s Not Unusual’, ‘Kiss’, ‘Delilah’, ‘What’s New spent on protecting, improving and expanding England’s Pussycat’, ‘I’ll Never Fall In Love Again’ and ‘If I forests and woodlands and increasing their value to people Only Knew’, he is first and foremost an artist with and wildlife. Over Forest Live’s 15 years history, money a true rhythm and blues soul. He has remained a raised has contributed to a wide range of projects, prominent recording artist, with his 1999 album from wildlife conservation to making improvements Reload the biggest selling (5m) of his then 35-year for visitors. With everything required for a great night career. Tom was knighted by Her Majesty The out, including full catering and bar facilities, the gigs are Queen in 2006 and other highlights of his long career renowned for their relaxed atmosphere. include receiving a BRIT Award for Best Male and Outstanding Contribution to Music, a Silver Tom Jones plus guests will be Clef Award for Lifetime Achievement and the performing: prestigious Music Industry Trust Award. Friday 17 June: Bedgebury Pinetum, In the latter part of 2015, Tom released near Tunbridge Wells, Kent. his first ever autobiography entitled ‘Over The Top And Back’ and the books THE DETAILS companion soundtrack entitled ‘Long Lost Suitcase’ Tickets £48.50 (plus £5.35 booking Sir Tom is indeed a living legend, one fee) go on sale 9am Friday 19 February of the few musical artists whose profession from the Forestry Commission box began at the dawn of modern popular music office tel 03000 680400, or buy online and who continues to have a vital recording and at www.forestry.gov.uk/music performing career to this day. His irresistible

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LOCAL LIFE

‘A Woman of Genius’ Vicki Cooke

It would be easy for many an artist to look upon the quote by 19th-century art critic Edmond de Goncourt and sneer at the dated nature of the aphorism, but for local artist Vicki Cooke, the opportunity to refute such claims has resulted in her debut art exhibition at Maidstone Museum, ‘A Woman of Genius’.

pening on Saturday, March 5 and to bring out them into the open. I’m particularly running until April 30, 2016, the delighted to be able to host the exhibition at OPENS exhibition brings together a Maidstone Museum and am thankful for the SATURDAY number of original works from support that has been shown by everybody there. 5TH Vicki complemented by pieces of art from the Not only is it in my home town, but work by one Maidstone Museum collection by female artists of the artists I’ve studied heavily – Sofonisba MARCH down the ages. Such is the rare nature of the Anguissola – is kept here, so it seemed the 2016 collections, some of these works will be on show appropriate venue to present.” to the public for the first time, as certain pieces The ‘A Woman of Genius’ exhibition opens on are kept in storage to preserve the quality of the work. Saturday, March 5, 2016, and runs until April 30, 2016. Speaking before the opening of the exhibition, Vicki Entrance to the exhibition is free of charge. was keen to point out that the importance of female artists Open Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm until March 28, should be held in the highest esteem: “I had been researching 2016; Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm and Sunday 12pm-4pm and creating works about women artists for the past five thereafter. years. It all began when I read an art book mentioning Free entry Artemisia Gentileschi, a painter from the 1600s, and the realisation that I knew of barely any pre 20th-century female THE DETAILS artists. Digging deeper, it turned out there was actually plenty around, and the project grew from there. Website: www.maidstonemuseum.org “This will be my first solo art exhibition and the first Twitter: @MaidstoneMuseum time all the works have been shown together, so I hope that Email: museuminfo@maidstone.gov.uk it encourages other museums that have work by women

“A woman of genius does not exist; if she does, she must be a man!” 14 MARCH 2016 | www.thelifemagazines.com

LOCAL LIFE

English National Ballet and English National Ballet School present

My First Ballet:

Sleeping Beauty E

nglish National Ballet and English National Ballet School present My First Ballet: Sleeping Beauty, a reimagined version of the classic fairy-tale ballet created especially for children as young as three. Adapted to an hour in length and with a narrator to help young audiences follow the story, My First Ballet: Sleeping Beauty is the perfect way to introduce children as young as three to the magic of ballet. Following its premiere at the Peacock Theatre, London on 24 March, My First Ballet: Sleeping Beauty will embark on a seven week national tour and will be at The Orchard Theatre, Dartford from Saturday 16 – Sunday 17 April. My First Ballet: Sleeping Beauty tells the story of Princess Aurora, who as a baby is cursed by the evil Carabosse: on her 16th birthday, she will prick her finger on a spinning wheel and die. Fortunately, her godmother the Lilac Fairy alters the spell so Aurora will not die but will sleep for 100 years, only to be awoken by true love’s kiss. Choreographed by English National Ballet Associate Artist George Williamson, former student of English National Ballet School, My First Ballet: Sleeping Beauty is part of the My First Ballet series which enters its fifth year in 2016. Since its inception in 2012, over 150,000 people have enjoyed the series which has included the hugely successful My First Ballet: Swan Lake, Coppelia and Cinderella. Choreographer George Williamson, English National Ballet

Sat 16 Sun 17 April

Associate Artist, said: ‘It’s wonderful to be working on the My First Ballet series, and I’m proud that English National Ballet and English National Ballet School are leading the way in developing tailor made ballet productions for children. It’s a privilege to be creating this production of Sleeping Beauty, which is likely to be the first experience of ballet for children all over the country – I hope they will leave the performance feeling inspired, with a sense of the magic of ballet and its power to tell a story.’ The My First Ballet series is performed by second year students of English National Ballet School and provides them with valuable rehearsal and performance experience within a touring company. This forms part of the high quality training English National Ballet School has sought to provide to talented young dancers since it was founded in 1988 by English National Ballet. THE DETAILS To book tickets or for more information visit orchardtheatre. co.uk or call the Ticket Office on 01322 220000.

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LOCAL LIFE

Mature student’ wins £3,000 archaeological prize for study of country life in Roman Kent New light has been shed on a little-known aspect of the 400-year Roman occupation of Kent by Dr Elizabeth Blanning of West Malling, whose research has won her a coveted £3,000 prize awarded by the Kent Archaeological Society (KAS).

lizabeth (58), pictured above, decided to make everyday life in the countryside during this era the subject of her PhD research at the University of Kent, following several years occupied in raising her family and occasionally finding time to take part in archaeological ‘digs’ in Kent and further afield. After being awarded her doctorate in Classical and Archaeological Studies she applied for the KAS’s Hasted Prize, awarded every two years for best doctoral thesis that advances knowledge of the archaeology or history of Kent (including the London Boroughs of Bexley, Bromley, Greenwich and Lewisham, which were once part of the county). The prize was established in 2007 to mark the society’s 150th anniversary and is named in honour of the celebrated 18th century Kent historian Edward Hasted. The judges agreed that Elizabeth’s 100,000-word thesis was ‘an important and pioneering piece of research which provides a clearer picture of the pattern of rural settlement throughout the county over the several hundred years of the Roman presence.’ Dr Bob Cockcroft, the society’s general secretary, added: ‘We are very pleased that a “mature student” has become the fifth winner of the Hasted Prize and has proved that “you are never too old to learn.” Elizabeth has received an immediate payment of £1,000. ‘The remaining £2,000 will go towards the publication of the thesis as a book by a commercial publisher. All four previous recipients of the Hasted Prize have had their theses published or accepted for publication.’ Elizabeth started studying for her PhD in 2009. During

KAS AWARD WINNER

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her studies she has gained fieldwork experience by working as a site assistant at the Canterbury Archaeological Trust’s prehistoric and Anglo-Saxon cemetery site at The Meads, Sittingbourne; and taking part as a volunteer in ‘digs’ with the Maidstone Area Archaeological Group (‘MAAG’) at East Farleigh, where an extensive Roman rural settlement is being excavated, and with the Thanet Archaeological Trust. Elizabeth (third from left, holding trowel) and other ‘MAAG’ members excavating Building 5 (possibly built as a Romano-Celtic temple but later converted into kitchens) at the Roman settlement at East Farleigh. (Maidstone Area Archaeological Group) She has also been a member of the Kent University teams that have been excavating in the Lincolnshire Wolds and in Ostia Antica, the harbour city of ancient Rome. ‘I was delighted to win the Hasted Prize and I am very grateful to the KAS and the judges,’ said Elizabeth. ‘I now intend to carry on my archaeological studies. I’ve been fortunate enough to be granted an Honorary Research Fellowship by the University of Kent which will greatly facilitate this. My immediate plans are to work up a book based on my PhD thesis and I have some other research ideas in mind.’ A copy of her thesis, ‘Landscape, Settlement and Materiality: Aspects of Rural Life in Kent during the Roman Period,’ will be placed in the KAS’s library in Maidstone. It can be read online at https://kar.kent.ac.uk/47715/ Contact details for Dr Blanning: E.Blanning@kent.ac.uk

LOCAL LIFE

Grease, ABBA, Elvis and Blues Brothers Tribute Acts add new musical dimension to

Family Festival Entertainment!

This year’s Festival of Steam and Transport, being held at The Historic Dockyard Chatham on Easter Sunday and Monday (27th and 28th March), builds on the huge success of previous years and will be even bigger and better than ever! Keeping the popular musical and entertainment favourites and adding new ‘tribute’ acts to the line-up, will give Festival goers two days of non-stop family entertainment!

27th & 28th march

ew for 2016 is the exciting addition of the “Dockyard Drive-In”. Movie fans will be in their element with musical stage productions of the hit movie ‘Grease’ performed by the Dancing Queen troupe. Pink Ladies and T-Birds alike can “Go Together” and dance and sing-a-long to all their favourite songs from the show as “Rock ‘n Roll is Here to Stay” at the Dockyard! The Dancing Queen Troupe will be performing ABBA songs and ‘60s/’70s disco favourites too and promise an action packed party show featuring all the greatest hits from ABBA and the biggest hits from the ‘70s. In addition, fans of The Blues Brothers can “Shake A Tail Feather” with the incredible Blueprint Blues Brothers who will give the festival the best of Soul and Blues from the hit movie musical. The ‘Brothers’ will roll-in with their Bluesmobile and keep toes tapping all weekend. Formed in November 2002, The Blueprint Blues Brothers have taken their show the across the UK and abroad to great acclaim and now add The Historic Dockyard Chatham to their list of venues played. The day builds up to a long awaited Elvis finalé. Visitors should put on their “Blue Suede Shoes” as the Dockyard gets “All Shook Up” with Scott Elvis performing some the most popular songs from the rock ‘n’ roll legend’s impressive career. Folk, Roots, Acoustic and Ceilidh music will complete the Festival sounds with an impressive line-up of the best in local, national and international artists. Local artists who

have become big names in the music industry include; Hobo Jones and the Junkyard Dogs, Funke and the Two Tone Baby, Justin and the Argonauts, John Doe Blues, Son of Kirk, All the Kings Daughters (an identical twin, acoustic act) from Holland and The Sweetchunks Band. Special guests from London are Licence to Ceilidh who have over 14 years’ experience and appearances on national TV. Side Show entertainment will be provided by Hoo-based Street Entertainment Company ‘Dizzy O’Dare’. Alana Jones will lead her group of performers and “wow” visitors with shows from The Giant Balloon Show, Giraffe Unicycles, Stilt Walkers and a Vaudevillian Gentleman Juggler. Roaming entertainment will be provided by the Steampunk Morris team; and ‘Pretending People’ with music from their upcoming theatre show. Hundreds of classic cars, ‘Motion Picture Motors’, motorcycles and military vehicles, running trains, steam traction engines and road rollers, a free traditional fun fair included in the ticket price, animals, food and drink, Call the Midwife ‘taster’ tours, the Steampunk village and festival traders complete the line-up for this great family day out this Easter.

The day builds up to a long awaited Elvis finalé. Visitors should put on their “Blue Suede Shoes” as the Dockyard gets “All Shook Up”

20 MARCH 2016 | www.thelifemagazines.com

THE DETAILS Discounted tickets providing fast track entry on the day are now available to purchase online at www.thedockyard.co.uk/steamandtransport

LOCAL FOCUS

Looking forward to Spring Pictures: Adam Swaine 1. River Loose @ Loose | 2. Kentish Sheep (on the weald) 3. Loose Village Kent | 4. Kent/Sussex Weald 5. Wealden Walks nr Crockham Hill | 6. Headcorn Village 7. Emmetts Gardens NT Kent

Adam Swaine Photography www.adamswaine.co.uk adamswaine@rocketmail.com | 07798 526 569

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LOCAL theatre

Q&A

Tom The Musical’s Kit Orton The star of the hit musical tells us about playing a legend and the less well known story of Tom Jones’ life before he became famous.

Tom Jones is a true icon. How did you feel when you found out you were playing him? I felt brilliant, then the reality set in that I’m playing someone very current in everyone’s minds. I just hoped that people would accept and respect what I did with him. I’m lucky in that I’m playing him at a time before everyone knew who he was. How does that help? It gives me a lot of artistic licence. I don’t do an impression or an impersonation. I could – if there’s ever karaoke on, I will sing It’s Not Unusual. It’s my party trick – but I try to pay a bit more respect to him, as he is still going. The show focuses on lesser known time in Tom’s life, doesn’t it? Yes, it’s a true story, about the early life of Tom Jones. We all got to know him when he was famous but there is a fascinating story about him trying to become somebody. It’s about him breaking down doors trying to get recognised, trying to escape what he thought was trapping him in this small community in Wales. He was working in a paper mill and was just desperate to sing. It doesn’t happen quickly for him. In part of the show, he’s close to throwing himself in front of a train because it’s not happening. He’s not making any money, everyone’s about to give up on him and he can’t go home a failure. There are dark moments in Tom’s life that I was completely unaware of before I joined the show.

Was the music a surprise too? The numbers that we’ve got in the show aren’t all songs that you’d necessarily associate with him. The songs we concentrate on are the songs he used to sing in the pubs and clubs around Wales; Jerry Lee Lewis numbers, Al Jolson numbers. We’ve got actors playing Tom’s band, The Senators, who happen to be the most amazing musicians as well, so everything you hear in the show is absolutely live. We perform those gigs like you would have heard them if you were there. The amps are on stage with them and set up exactly as they would have been in the late 50s early 60s. Honestly, if I thought this was a jukebox musical I wouldn’t have signed on to it. We don’t have a cat called Delilah or a scene where we buy a new pet leading to What’s New, Pussycat? We don’t shoehorn songs in for no reason. Our songs are put in place because Tom was a performer. There’s no way you can tell his story without having them. We do a lovely medley of hits at the end though, because we want to give people a feel good boom. That’s cool, because it’s not involved in the story; it’s just a bit of fun. Has Sir Tom seen it? He hasn’t. His management are aware of the project. Maybe he’ll come. I think he’d appreciate the respect we’ve given him and his story: it makes for great theatre.

In part of the show, he’s close to throwing himself in front of a train because it’s not happening. He’s not making any money, everyone’s about to give up on him and he can’t go home a failure. There are dark moments in Tom’s life that I was completely unaware of before I joined the show.

24 MARCH 2016 | www.thelifemagazines.com

LOCAL life

KENT’S NEW LITERARY FESTIVAL AT CHIDDINGSTONE CASTLE Don’t miss an exciting new event at Chiddingstone Castle over the first May Bank Holiday Weekend – the inaugural Chiddingstone Castle Literary Festival!

Taking place in the glorious house and grounds of Chiddingstone Castle, this new Literary Festival brings you an inspiring selection of new and established writers to provoke debate, stimulate discussion and entertain.

n Sunday 1st, Bank Holiday Monday 2nd and Tuesday 3rd May, Chiddingstone Castle has lined up an impressive list of celebrated authors, actors, poets and theatrical groups to entertain story-lovers of all ages in this idyllic Kentish setting. Located near to Edenbridge and only 20 minutes from Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells, this event is a first of its kind in this corner of West Kent. Fascinated by how Churchill managed his finances? Loving the new John Le Carré adaptation on BBC1 and want to know more about the author himself ? Intrigued to hear about the exciting new novel by former Blue Peter presenter Janet Ellis? Keen to see Downton Abbey and Cold Feet actor Robert Bathurst performing a fascinating platform play? Want to ask questions of the Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell? Keen to learn more about the problems in Afghanistan with former BBC newsreader Sandy Gall? Heard of the famous historian Antony Beevor and want to learn more about his view of Syria? Fancy watching an inspirational theatrical performance of Beatrix Potter’s The Tailor of Gloucester in the Castle’s Victorian Orangery? All this and much, much more… Taking place in the glorious house and grounds of Chiddingstone Castle, this new Literary Festival brings you an inspiring selection of new and established writers to provoke debate, stimulate discussion and entertain. The programme on Sunday 1st May will appeal to adults and

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teenagers whilst Bank Holiday Monday 2nd May has events for all the family. Tuesday’s Schools Programme celebrates the joys of reading with appearances from a number of wonderful children’s authors. Come for one event or stay all day. Enjoy an array of vintage food vans serving delicious fare, coffee, tea and cakes from our tea rooms, drinks, cocktails and Larkins beer. Tickets to the festival are on sale NOW and include free entry to the Castle and its collections. There will be literary walks around the grounds, storytelling for children, drama performances and an ‘espresso’ theatre stall from the Royal Court Theatre. Online booking for tickets for all the main events now available via: www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk/literary-festival or call 0800 0337 564 The Castle will re-open to the public for 2016 on Good Friday, 25th March and from then every Sunday to Wednesday, plus Bank Holidays until the end of October (11am to 5pm). For more information on any aspect of Chiddingstone Castle visit www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk,

THE DETAILS email events@chiddingstonecastle.org.uk or call 01892 870347.

SUNDAY 1ST MAY An inspiring programme of authors and performers BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY 2ND MAY A whole day of exciting family events TUESDAY 3RD MAY A schools programme of superb children’s author events Chiddingstone Castle Literary Festival is a NEW festival for story-lovers of all ages; set to take place in the glorious house and grounds of Chiddingstone Castle, during and after the Bank Holiday Weekend 1st - 3rd May 2016. Our programme offers author events for adults and teenagers on Sunday 1st May, events for families and children on Bank Holiday Monday 2nd May and a whole day of events dedicated to schools on Tuesday 3rd May. Don’t miss this fabulous weekend. There will be author talks, tea and cakes, children’s theatre, sparkling wit and wisdom, cocktails, a dazzling array of delicious food, story-telling, music, illustrations, drama and performance poetry.

DON’T MISS THE CHILDREN’S SHORT STORY COMPETITION (entries close Friday 18th March) To book tickets click on to: www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk /literary-festival/

LOCAL HISTORY

Their brush with fame … Capturing life on canvas along with Turner and Tracey

Joseph Mallord William Turner, Margate (?), from the Sea, about 1835-40: © The National Gallery, London

wo names dominate the scene when it comes to artists associated with Kent – J.W.T. Turner, arguably the best known player in the 19th century Impressionist movement, and Tracey Emin who, in her own controversial way, likewise shook the art world over a century later. Yet, oddly, neither were natives of the county. Turner was born in Covent Garden, Emin in Croydon. Both, however, loved Margate: Turner for his love of the sea, the skies ‘ the loveliest in all Europe’, and his landlady, Mrs Booth. Tracey Emin, in turn, brought up in the resort where her Turkish Cypriot father owned an hotel, famously declared: ‘You can take the girl out of Margate but you can’t take Margate out of the girl,’ Nostalgia for the Thanet town is often present in her many works. This shared love of Margate led to the opening by her of the £17.5m Turner Gallery in April 2011. It stands appropriately on the site of Mrs Booth’s former lodgings, a nice twist to a building which now attracts worldwide exhibitions. But while Kent still brims with local talent, it’s been somewhat left to this charismatic couple to wave the flag for other famous artists associated with the county. JOHN RULER doffs his artistic hat to just a few of them.

amuel Palmer’s work is probably best But after leaving the village in the mid-1830s, his originality deserted remembered for his In a Shoreham him. ‘Real life began,’ Palmer reluctantly remarked when after marrying Garden. Painted in watercolour the daughter of John Linnell – a well-established landscape painter and an and gouache in 1829, the veritable admirer of his work – his father-in-law talked him into painting in a more explosion of colour captures not just the profitable style. This was described by one critic as ‘obscured by a thick blossoming beauty of a fruit tree in a Kent and sugary dusting of Victorian sentimentality.’ Samuel died aged 76 at walled garden but the energy of spring. Redhill, Surrey, in 1881. But others, like the one featured, Pastoral Scene, c. 1833–1835 were no doubt drawn on his love © Ashmolean Museum, University of Oxford of the area which could well have inspired his great friend Samuel Palmer: William Blake to compose Jerusalem © National Portrait Gallery during walks – sometimes under moonlight – they took in the valley slopes surrounding this still remarkably rural village. Samuel, who came to Shoreham in 1824 to recover from an illness, was followed by the rest of his family, renting Ivy Cottage; from 1827 to 1834 they moved into part of Water House which bears a plaque to mark Palmer’s famous local scenes. He reportedly lived on 5s 2d a week and could only afford one candle at night. Whether the property was rented remains a matter of conjecture. What is known is that he formed the Society of Ancients, based in Shoreham, who set out to create an idyllic version of the world through a mixture of religious mystery, sometimes bordering on the erotic, and philosophy. Not bad for a London-born lad who by 19 already had three of his paintings hung in the Royal Academy. Yet it was only comparatively recently, that his Shoreham works led him to be dubbed England’s Van Gogh.

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ascinated with the metaphysical world, Chatham – born Richard Dadd (1819-1897) was a Victorian era perfectionist whose preoccupation for detail shines through his numerous works. The fourth of nine children of Robert Dadd, an apothecary and chemist, he entered the Royal Academy Schools where he was universally liked for his gentleness, intelligence and cheerful good nature. But on returning from a drawing tour Richard Dadd: through Europe and the Middle East in © National Portrait Gallery) May, 1843, he showed signs of insanity. The following August, he stabbed his father to death. Despite being confined to Bethlem, then in Lambeth and now the Royal Hospital, Beckenham, he continued painting with an exhibition of his works recently held at the Bethlem Museum of the Mind. In 1864 he was transferred to then newly built criminal lunatic asylum at Broadmoor, near Crowthorne, Berks, Cupid and Psyche © Ashmolean where he died in 1886 of Museum, University of Oxford consumption. Throughout nearly 42 years of confinement he relied chiefly on his imagination and a strong visual memory. His most remarkable watercolours are small landscapes, shipping scenes and occasional fancy subjects, some smaller than a postcard, Some of his most brilliant work includes The Fairy Feller’s MasterStroke and Illustrations of the Passions, an interpretation ‘witty, strange and touching in turn – of the causes of insanity.’

orn in Tonbridge, photographer, botanist and illustrator Anna Atkins (1799-1871) was hailed by some as the first female photographer as well as the first in England to illustrate a book on botany with photographic Anna Atkins (1799-1871); Look for the plaque at the Halstead Place Lodge. representations. ‘The importance of Anna, who married John Pelly Atkins, a London West Indian Merchant, in 1825, has only relatively recently been recognised’ says Halstead resident and local historian Geoffrey Kitchener, with her name now commemorated by a plaque at the Gate Lodge to Halstead Place, later a school and now a residential estate. It was here, where the couple moved to after their marriage, that Anna, who had no children, pursued her interests in botany, for example by collecting dried plants. These were probably used as photograms in her pioneering work on her book. Both her father John George Children and her husband were friends of William Henry Fox Talbot, with Anna learning directly from the famous pioneer about two of his inventions related to photography: Anna, who was known to have had access to a rudimentary camera by 1841, began her three volume work on British algae, which took ten years to complete, in 1843. Because they were produced in such small numbers, her books are extremely rare and have fetched up to £229,000 at auction. No camera-based photographs by her survive.

s the daughter of Sir Abraham Hume, a keen art collector and friend of Sir Joshua Reynolds, it seemed ordained that water colour artist Amelia Long should put her own considerable talents as Lady Farnborough into creating the garden at Hill House, now Bromley Court Hotel where examples of her work are on show. Their beauty subsequently became the main sources for her highly collectable works. One 60-page sketchbook, now in London’s Victorian and Albert Museum, was probably bought from one of the numerous shops catering for the craze in amateur Amelia Long art that developed in the early 19th century. (Lady Farnborough) This was made of a white wove highly suited for pencil, ink and water colour, the media which Amelia worked in. Her love of art was shared by her husband, Charles Long, later to become Lord Farnborough himself an amateur etcher. While her early work took on a broad topographical style, Lady Farnborough was later influenced by fellow water colourist Henry Edridge, with his fine eye for detail, and Dr Thomas Monro, physician, artist and Patron of the Arts who encouraged the growing interest in water colour. Amelia’s own watercolours also showed the influence of her contemporary John Varley, a close friend of William Blake. Amelia, who travelled widely in Europe, was an Honorary Exhibitor at the Royal Academy between 1807 and 1822.

Bromley Hill from the summerhouse (Bromley Museum)

Two names dominate the scene when it comes to artists associated with Kent – J.W.T. Turner, arguably the best known player in the 19th century Impressionist movement, and Tracey Emin who, in her own controversial way, likewise shook the art world over a century later. www.thelifemagazines.com

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LOCAL theatre

Memories of my grandmother,

AGATHA CHRISTIE. An interview with MATHEW PRICHARD I suppose it took some time for it to sink in that I had a famous grandmother known to the world as Agatha Christie. Not that it made a great deal of difference to me.

he was just a marvellous grandmother and someone nice to have around. I think perhaps there were four things which, more than anything else endeared her to me. The first was her modesty. To the outside world I suppose this appeared as shyness, but to us she was always infinitely more interested in what we were thinking and doing than in herself. Her next great characteristic was her generosity. It is by now well-known that she gave me The Mousetrap for my ninth birthday. I do not, I’m afraid, remember much about the actual presentation (if there was one) and probably nobody realised until much later what a marvellous present it was, but it is perhaps worth remembering that my grandmother had been through many times in her life when money was not plentiful. It was therefore incredibly generous of her to give away such a play to her grandson, as in 1952 her books were only approaching the enormous success they have now become. The third thing I always enjoyed was her enthusiasm. I think she always had a love/fright relationship with the theatre. She always enjoyed other people’s enthusiasm for her plays and found it infectious. I went to The Mousetrap several times with her in varying company – family parties, girlfriends, and the Eton cricket team when I was captain in 1962. We all enjoyed the play and my grandmother’s company in equal measure. But she was enthusiastic about other people’s plays as well, about archaeology, opera and perhaps above all about

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food! In short, she was an exciting person to be with because she always tried to look on the good side of things and people; she always found something to enthuse about. When I had the pleasure of taking my own children, aged twelve and eleven, to The Mousetrap for the first time they enjoyed it tremendously, and crossed off assiduously in their programmes those whom they thought couldn’t have done it (the real culprit was excluded at an early stage!). It was great evening for me, and would have been, I am sure, for my grandmother had she been there. I think it tells us something about the success of the play, too: it contains so much for everybody – humour, drama, suspense and a jigsaw puzzle – suitable for all ages and tastes. It is inevitable perhaps that my own impressions of my grandmother are rather personal ones. She was, above all, a family person and through everybody, from the literary world, from the world of archaeology and from the stage has good reason to be grateful to her, it is her family who have the most to be grateful for; her kindness, her charity, and for just being herself. THE DETAILS Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap comes to The Orchard Theatre from Mon 16 – Sat 21 May. There is a post-show cast Q&A at the Tue 17 May, 7.30pm performance. Book online at orchardtheatre.co.uk or call the Ticket Office on 01322 220000

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Fiveways Fires & Stoves Experienced, Friendly. Family Run Showroom. Hetas and Gas Safe engineers. Multi fuel stoves all Defra approved, Gas Fires and Mantles, The New Optimist range of Electric Fires and Stoves. Open 6 days a week 10 until 6.

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FASHION

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FASHION

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Rowhill Grange Hotel & Utopia Spa

DELICIOUS Nestled in the heart of Kent, Rowhill Grange Hotel is home to RG’s Restaurant, a superb 2 AA Rosette Restaurant overseen by Executive Chef, Ewan Simpson. Ewan and his talented brigade provide a dining experience that combines individuality with food bursting with the latest seasonal produce and new flavours, as well as classic dishes designed for nostalgic delight – no ordinary menus to be found here! OUR PHILOSOPHY Our Philosophy at Rowhill Grange is to use only the best of local seasonal ingredients. With this in mind we produce monthly menus to enable us to utilise the best produce as it comes into season. We strongly believe in supporting the local Kent economy sourcing the majority of our produce from Kent, mixing these ingredients with imagination and flair we have created a selection of dishes which reflect seasonal Kentish dining at its best. When it comes to pastries, bread and desserts you can expect added YUM as everything is made in-house by Rowhill Grange Hotel’s very own pastry chefs. The restaurant itself has been designed to complement the level of food served in RG’s. The atmosphere is welcoming and simplistically modern. There is an intimate feel to the venue which overlooks the groomed gardens and pristine terraces, and for those of you who enjoy a pre or post dinner tipple, why not make yourself at home in the hotel’s delightful lounge bar. EXCLUSIVE The superb standard of food served in RG’s restaurant can also be presented in one of our exclusive private dining rooms. Seating from 2 to 150 guests, you can expect to be wonderfully spoiled with outstanding cuisine served in your own exclusive space. Our private dining rooms are

ideal for a family get together, special celebrations or an occasion where it’s simply best to impress. THE TRADITION At Rowhill Grange we are serious about the quintessentially English tradition of Afternoon Tea. Our Afternoon Teas are served with our best selection of pastries, cakes and deliciously tasty sandwiches. Afternoon Tea is served daily from 12.30pm until 5.30pm, and your table is reserved for up to 2 hours. Afternoon Tea can take place in one of our intimate lounges, brasserie or restaurant and in the summer season, if the weather permits, Afternoon Tea can be enjoyed al fresco on the hotels south facing terrace. Afternoon Tea is served daily from 12.30pm until 5.30pm and available from £20.95 per person. At Rowhill Grange we even cater for your little ones, offering a specially designed Children’s Little Stars Afternoon Tea menu, served with traditional favourites and fun fancies, from £12.50 per child. READERS OFFER To celebrate all things Foodie at Rowhill Grange, we are offering you a little extra something when dining at RG’s Restaurant. Join us Sunday to Thursday, dining on 3 courses from our A La Carte Menu and receive a complimentary bottle of Prosecco to enjoy. THE DETAILS Just call 01322 615136 and quote ‘LIFEMAGAZINE’ to book. Terms and conditions apply.

Our Philosophy at Rowhill Grange is to use only the best of local seasonal ingredients. With this in mind we produce monthly menus to enable us to utilise the best produce as it comes into season. 38 MARCH 2016 | www.thelifemagazines.com

FASHION

GET A 40 MARCH 2016

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FEEL...

FOR FOLK

It started on the catwalks last spring, when Valentino’s floaty, fringe and feather print-filled autumn show caused fashion editors everywhere to swoon.

look for shaggy yarns in open weave fabrics that won’t weigh ow, the high street has latched onto folksy you down. fashion in a big way, and the Valentino SS16 If all-over texture feels too bulky, look for jumpers collection is another dreamy prairie girl with a touch of fringing at the sleeve or hem parade, meaning this is a trend cream or ivory are ideal for breaking up a that’s got legs. dark colour palette. So stock up on snuggly wraps, FLASHPS N O I w Navy & Ivory Stitch Cardigan, H muted prints and textured knits and S A O F SH £99; Ivory Woven Hem Tee, £39; fight the cold snap in style... F THE r hols O e P m O m T u your s rite vacay Hartford Indigo Flared Jean, £79; d e k o favou e the ou bo Tan Edie Sandal, £129; all Mint FROCK FOUNDATION Have y opping is a ia’s list of th be. h s ed the glo Velvet (www.mintvelvet.co.uk) yet? If ck out Exp Make a long-sleeved dress the s s o r c , while y, che ions a basis of your look. Think w Valley Of The Dolls Indiana activit ail destinat p, obviously and t s o t store signer best re rk comes t n high-necked hippyish baby-doll Sweatshirt, currently reduced e m t r o nd, de on New Y mix of depa or drop-waist frocks (they to £17.50 from £35 it seco d n s ’s t o n u L li r p d s Be hird an e a couple utique t have more of a retro feel than o (www.joythestore.com) b is s e vintag Los Angele r. There ar oo, with cinched-in skater dresses) in u w Girls On Film Knitted t Mecca t the top fo the top 10 t a ul dark, stylised florals, rather than Istanb s in s ou Ragged Grey Jacket, £38 round bvious citie er five and d b o alle chintzy prints. (Little-Mistress.com) of less mper at num ile the so-c ris, Pa wh Lu Alternatively, a woollen tube Kuala mber eight, f the world, e ll e o nu Qu al skirt in an ethnic print makes COSY COATS place. 5 at n capit fashio hes in ninth op 2 T for a warm but sleek silhouette, to ll Your shortcut to the old school is fu u e h t lang k e .u e r! S g.co which you can add chunky knits on folk trend? That’ll be a blanket horreu .expediablo www your top half. coat in a dark hue and hefty fabric. w Floral Print Buttonless and with a big High-Neck Jersey shawl collar, this mid-length jacket Dress, £26; Platform eschews the need for a belt or scarf Sandals, £45 (available soon), and is easy to throw on over jeans and a and Fringe Duffle Bag, £25, jumper on winter mornings, when it’s too all SimplyBe cold to contemplate lots of wardrobe (www.simplybe.co.uk) options. Just add a bobble beanie or w H&M Skirt, £24.99 wide-brimmed felt hat and (available in February, you’re good to go. www.hm.com) w Valley Of The Dolls NATTY KNITS Wyomey Aztec Coat, A cardigan or sweater currently reduced is the next key piece you to £39.50 from need, but not just any old £79, and Boston fine knit. Dress, currently The bigger the better, so reduced to £19.50

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FASHION from £39, both Joy (www.joythestore.com) w Monsoon Kosmo Blanket Coat in Stone, £89 (www.monsoon.co.uk) AMERICANA ACCESSORIES You don’t need masses of accessories to complete your foray into folk, but a pair of sturdy brown boots - anywhere from burgundy to tan - is a must. Bag-wise, you want an unfussy cross-body in a similar shade. If you’ve invested in this season’s saddle bag, you’re all set, but for a flippy flourish, a feather-strewn, whipstitched duffle bag is bang on trend. w Duffle Bag With Feathers, £38 (www.simplybe.co.uk) w New Look Light Brown Knitted Cuff Block Heel Boots, £29.99 (www.newlook.com) w Accessorize Sable Panel Saddle Bag, £25 (www.accessorize.com) GET THE LOOK Even when she’s not treading the red carpet, Amal Clooney always manages to look immaculate, with her staple of sleek, below-the-knee frocks. Recently, the human rights lawyer was pictured in a boat neck plum S Dress, which is designed to give a comfortable slimming effect - not that Mrs Clooney needs it. w S Dress Ava Contrast Detail Black Dress, £495 (www.sdress.com) BUY IT NOW A Mary Jane with benefits, the Clarks Griffin Mia, £50, is essentially two pairs of shoes in one, thanks to its detachable fringe. Pick up a pair in dusty blue-grey or pale pink suede (www.clarks.co.uk).

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Sevenoaks Pilates Studio Sally established Sevenoaks Pilates Studio in November last year.

n Sally’s 11 years experience as a pilates teacher, Sally has had experience teaching a broad range of clients of all ages and abilities. These include pre and postnatal clients, those with musculoskeletal conditions, osteoporosis, recovering from surgery, injury and strokes, as well as clients wanting to improve their dance/ athletic ability and general well being. She discovered Pilates in Sydney in 2002, whilst recovering from a shoulder injury, and was immediately drawn to the method’s approach to the body and improving it’s function. Using world class Balanced Body machines including the Reformer, Cadillac (Trapeze Table) and Combo Chair, the studio offers solo, duet or group classes for people of all ages and abilities in a comfortable, friendly and calm environment.

Sally trained as a dancer and choreographer for 20 years in Australia. She then went on to perform with Cell 66b dance company in Tokyo, and also choreographed contemporary dance pieces in Sydney in the late 90’s. After completing her Pilates training in 2004 with the Pilates Foundation at Trinity Laban Conservatoire London, Sally taught at Trinity Laban Pilates Studio, as well as Hoxton Square Pilates Studio in London. She also taught on the Laban post graduate One Year Programme ‘Pilates for Dance’ course for 6 years, the Laban Summer School for 7 years, and on Cando Co dance company’s One Year program for 2 years. Sally has also worked with the National Childbirth Trust, giving talks about pre and post natal Pilates and exercise. This particularly became an area of interest for her, more so since having children of her own.

Pilates has something to offer everyone so we invite you to visit our studio and start enjoying the benefits today THE DETAILS

For more information call 01732 451 439 Or email sevenoakspilatesstudio@gmail.com www.sevenoakspilatesstudio.com Facebook: Sevenoaks Pilates Studio 28a London Road, Riverhead Sevenoaks, TN13 2DE, Kent

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LOCAL THEATRE

SPOTLIGHT ON OPERA PRODUCER ELLEN KENT

(and Scarlett the Donkey)

Award-winning opera producer Ellen Kent returns to Bromley this April with a new production, boasting a magnificent new set reflecting the magnificent architecture of Seville with its Roman and Moorish influences.

his spectacular set includes the main square, the bull ring and the tobacco factory, which was reputedly one of the most important in Europe. It was built for Ellen Kent in England by Setup Scenery, who also builds sets for the Royal Opera Covent Garden. Ellen has been awarded 12 separate BSIS awards from 1987- 1996, a large sponsorship grant for the tour of the Romanian National Opera in 1996, won awards in two consecutive years from SFX (Live Nation) for breaking all opera box office records in the history of the Manchester Opera House and was one of the first businesses to gain a grant from the National Lottery. Ellen has also been nominated twice as ‘European Women of the Year’, been awarded a medal from the President of Moldova for ‘The Best Contribution To The Arts In Moldova’ and has received the ‘Medal of Honour’ and ‘Golden Fortune’ awards from the President of Ukraine. In her 24 years of being an opera producer, Ellen has performed many exciting productions of Carmen. From an outdoor performance in the beautiful grounds of Leeds Castle in Kent, where two sell-out performances played to thousands of people and caused major traffic jams on M20, to her visit

to the Middle East in 2004 where she entertained the Emir of Qatar and 3,500 Royal guests for the first ever performance of Carmen to be performed in the Gulf, screened live on Al Jazeera Television. This season, to lend a real taste of Spain, Carmen includes a very special guest star, a donkey called Scarlett. Although Scarlett will be making her Bromley premiere, she has appeared in many of Ellen Kent’s productions and is a true professional.

This season, to lend a real taste of Spain, Carmen includes a very special guest star, a donkey called Scarlett.

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WHERE DID THE INSPIRATION TO INCLUDE SCARLETT IN THE SHOW COME FROM? “My mother ran the Spanish equivalent of the RSPCA which saved the lives of many donkeys. We used to travel miles across the Spanish countryside to festivals when they were planning to ill-treat a donkey. Money would exchange hands and we would run – often chased by villagers. There was never a dull moment. The animals were always my mother’s top priority. It’s a tribute to her really, that I use donkeys in the show – she would have been delighted and the audience always love it, especially as we try to use rescue donkeys from the local area to raise money.” Carmen is the story of the bewitching gypsy girl whose tantalising beauty lures a soldier to desertion and leads to her own murder. The opera includes some of the most evocative and best-loved melodies in opera including perhaps the bestknown baritone aria of all The Toreador’s Song. Carmen comes to The Churchill Theatre for one night only on Tuesday 5 April.

Capital Web Ltd. Incorporated in 2015, Capital Web Ltd. is on its way to becoming the preferred website design partner for small to medium sized businesses in the South East.

ituated in the heart of Westerham in Kent, the home of Sir Winston Churchill, Capital Web specialise in creating and managing highly effective business websites built with the No. 1 industry leading web platform, WordPress. Why Wordpress? For those in the know, WordPress currently powers around 25% of all websites in the World, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s over 60,000,000 websites! WordPress has over 40,000 plugins available enabling web developers to tailor their sites to their specific needs. Choosing the right developer can enable endless possibilities of integration and automation to many other business systems. It is not just small businesses using WordPress,

companies such as Sony, The Walking Dead, Xerox, eBay to name a few. Capital Web builds WordPress websites and creates maintainable working relationships with businesses. They support your business as much or as little as required with their unique Shield plans. These plans are designed to make website development affordable, supporting and growing your online business. Security and maintenance are very important to consider for any website. A website that is not kept up-to-date is potentially insecure and new threats are found on a daily basis. Therefore any website can be targeted and taken down by hackers. If this happens to you, the reputation of your business is at risk. Protect your WordPress website with a Shield plan from Capital Web. THE DETAILS enq@capweb.co.uk The Grange, Market Square, Westerham, Kent TN16 1HB 01959 447456 www.capweb.co.uk

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KITCHEN SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT THE QUALITY KITCHEN GUIDE • MARCH 2016

PAST PRESENT AND FUTURE KITCHEN TRENDS. EXTEND YOUR KITCHEN. LOVE THE HEART OF YOUR HOME. CONTEMPORARY DESIGN TIPS.

KITCHENS SPECIAL

Who are...

Kitchen Design of Sevenoaks? We’re a family run partnership offering a wealth of experience developed over 35 years along with a passion for good design and attention to detail. What about appliances? We rate German engineering so Neff, Bosch, Siemens, Gaggenau and Miele are a good starting point. We then cherry pick from various other manufacturers around the world such as Fisher & Paykel, Quooker, ISE and others for specific solutions to suit each customers requirements. Anything else? To complete a project we can supply and install decorative glass splashbacks, under floor heating systems, floor coverings (porcelain, stone, wood or Amtico), LED lighting, radiators, sound systems and generally anything else the client wishes to add. The list goes on.

ur aim is to provide a complete package to suit each and every customer’s needs. Whether it is a project requiring a total refurbishment of the whole room or a kitchen to be installed into a new build house or extension. Happy to liaise with builders and architects we have professional and experienced fitting teams who can adapt to every situation. Clients generally have an idea of what they want to achieve and it’s our job is to develop those ideas, advise and guide the client throughout the process. Our specifications, plans, elevation drawings(drawn by hand) and computer generated visuals are all provided to give clients the best chance to be totally involved in the various stages of design for their own project. We genuinely enjoy what we do and that’s how it should be. Who are your main suppliers? Firstly let’s say that we like to use local suppliers wherever possible. Our main furniture supplier, Stonehams are based at Sidcup. Also a family run business, now celebrating their 151st year. From painted shaker style traditional furniture through to high gloss finish contemporary and everything between. Our suppliers for Granite, Quartz and Corian are all local and that means we can work closely with them to ensure the best end result.

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What’s the single most important part of the project? That’s an easy one to answer. The single most important part to ensure customer satisfaction being the fitters. They are key to the whole project. Our experienced fitting teams realise that happy customers mean recommendations, so they give a lot of time and effort to ensure customer satisfaction. Arriving on time, being courteous, respecting people’s homes and producing an installation we can all be proud of. Nothing beats the satisfaction of seeing a beautifully finished project and customers telling us how pleased they are with the finished job. What happens if things go wrong? In the real world mistakes happen (it proves we’re human) and it’s for this reason we like to deal with local suppliers wherever possible. The support we get from our suppliers is exemplary and they too realise that sometimes when things go wrong it’s how you handle the situation that can actually impress clients. We like a challenge.

THE DETAILS Showroom Address: 118 London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN13 1BA www.kdofsevenoaks.com Tel: 01732 741100 E-mail: info@kdofsevenoaks.com

KITCHENS SPECIAL

Past, Present &

Future Trends Adrian Stoneham, Managing Director of Stoneham Kitchens, tells us how kitchen trends have changed and progressed, what’s hot this year and what to expect in the future.

he modern kitchen has developed alongside technological advancement, social change, popular cooking shows and the emergence of celebrity chefs, as the media promotes the benefits of adopting a healthy lifestyle. As kitchen designers, we have had to increase our knowledge and understanding of how technology can help in the preparation of quick, easy and healthy meals. The Kitchen Connection Every home seeks to be ‘smart’ with well-connected devices, encouraging the production of exciting new technology. Kitchen appliances must be multifunctional, efficient and attractive. As the kitchen has become a multipurpose space, technology has advanced in order to keep up with the development of socialising and eating taking place in the same area. Traditional gas hobs have evolved into Tepan-Yaki and wok hobs. Stoneham customers love appliance banks in

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sets of two, three, four or even five, keeping accessibility and connection easy. Top Technology The Quooker Fusion tap that generates instant hot water and integrated RGB lighting systems are some of my favourite examples that our customers use to personalise their kitchen. BLUMOTION has produced the latest drawer technology, a soft close option, where there are no slammed doors – keeping the kitchen an area of tranquillity and luxury. State-of-the-art Natural Touch technology and innovative clutter-free storage, such as our Legrabox drawer system, have proved practical and attractive choices. With no space going unused, integration and concealment are the key components in this year’s design trends. Popular features such as the Harmon Kardon sound system, pop-up sockets with USB ports in islands and hidden technology will continue to feature in the 2016 ranges.

Eco-technology will be leading the design focus for kitchens. At Stoneham, we already source sustainable materials, believing that eco-technology is the next logical step in protecting the planet and transforming your kitchen.

Design Developments The 90s saw laminate countertops and maple-glazed cabinets, whilst the 2000s boasted all-wooden designs, often paired with monochrome colour schemes for a minimalist look. Recently, bright island panels and coloured splash backs have established themselves in the modern kitchen, adding personality and vibrancy to a room. Muted shades, including stone, cashmere, putty, and vibrant yellows and oranges are colouring our kitchens of 2016. Cabinetry with gloss, silk and matt finishes combined or offset with timber combinations, as well as accents in walnut, oak, Zebrano, Macassar and other organic materials. Additional standard paint-colour options have been introduced, as well as ultra matt veneers with finger print free surfaces â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the little things. The Future Vision Eco-technology will be leading the design focus for kitchens. At Stoneham, we already source sustainable materials, believing that eco-technology is the next logical step in protecting the planet and transforming your kitchen. Waste segmentation and disposal will continue to be integrated in kitchen design with built-in separation units and recycling cabinets. By 2020, our kitchens will have brought elements of the outdoors inside. This not only makes practical use of space but also allows consumers to continue to focus on the importance of health and wellbeing. Do not be surprised if urban gardens begin to cultivate in the kitchen. Future kitchen designs have already included vertical gardens and vegetable plantations in temperature controlled fridges for the home. In every home, the kitchen is a space worth investing in. At Stoneham, we strive to make the most of the available space by listening to your design requirements creating kitchen that suits your needs. THE DETAILS For more information about Stoneham Kitchens please visit our website: www.stoneham-kitchens.co.uk

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KITCHENS SPECIAL

Instant Transformation

erving customer in Kent & South East London is Granite Transformations a owner operated company offering the ultimate in Kitchen Makeover solutions. The multi award winning company is celebrating its 14th year of business, with its unique offering of granite, quartz and glass worktops that fit directly over your existing kitchen surface. With our exclusive 6.5mmm engineered stone fitting is achieved in just one day and often includes the upgrade of appliances such as sinks, taps and ovens at the same time and offered at trade pricing. In addition, we offer a complete kitchen door replacement service from stripping back to the bare carcass and changing doors, panels, cornice & pelmets to give you that truly new kitchen look for a fraction of the cost of a new kitchen and without the mess and demolition. With many styles of new and contemporary doors and over thirty colours to choose for the design possibilities are endless and all fitted by our own long serving professional fitting staff. Every item is made bespoke to your exact requirements and all the worktops are manufactured in our head office in Tunbridge Wells, Kent

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As members of Checkatrade we also boast an impressive 1200+ reputation reports posted on line with an average score of 9.9 for its remarkable service and attention to detail to provide the customer with a swift and hassle free service with stunning results. To see the very latest on what our customers are saying about us visit: www. checkatrade.com/ granitetransformationstunbridgewells We have showrooms in Tunbridge Wells, Ruxley Manor Garden Centre in Sidcup and Polhill Garden Centre, Sevenoaks where you can see our product and speak to one of our staff to discuss your requirements. We offer free in home consultations with one of our designers to show you exactly how we can transform your kitchen to suit your desired style and budget.

With many styles of new and contemporary doors and over thirty colours to choose for the design possibilities are endless

THE DETAILS Alternatively, visit our website at www. granitetransformations. co.uk to see how our product and service can help you or simply call 01892 517385 for more information or to book an appointment.

KITCHENS SPECIAL

Design, function, technology:

The three main drivers of kitchen change

5Kitchen

reasons to change youR

At Alaris, we’ve been designing and installing kitchens for many years. Throughout this time, we’ve pinpointed five common reasons why people feel it’s time for a change:

he look, feel and functionality of kitchens are constantly being reviewed to provide an enhanced user experience. While improvements are often incremental – and can take time to trickle down into the mainstream – Alaris has identified three main drivers of kitchen change.

Dated designs A dated design is perhaps the most obvious reason for considering a new kitchen. It can also be a major factor when moving home. What does the kitchen look like? Will you need to rip it out and start again? The kitchens of today tend to look cleaner and sleeker than their predecessors. The popular ranges from Mereway, which Alaris stocks, exemplify this trend. Handleless units are featured across both their bold statement and soft traditional kitchen schemes. Kitchen design is, of course, a matter of aesthetic taste and Alaris appreciates that concealed handles and sleek lines may not suit everyone – or be in keeping with the character of their property. Enter the English Revival brand, which offers period in-frame kitchens. These custom-built kitchens combine traditional looks with the latest features of modern kitchens. Even within these traditional ranges, trends exist. Painted finishes, for example, have now overtaken wood in terms of popularity. Focus on functionality Functionality is another deal-breaker when it comes to changing kitchen. Over the years, kitchens have become increasingly tailored to our lifestyles. Drawer systems are notably stronger and deeper than they were a decade ago. Pans and heavy bakeware can now be stacked and retrieved with ease. These types of practical features mean that a new Alaris kitchen is very easy to work with. With storage often at a premium, pull-out pantry units, basket systems and wine racks ensure that every cubic centimetre counts. Further developments such as boiling-water taps even free up worktop space by removing the need for what was once a kitchen staple, the humble kettle. Appliance science As well as its looks and ease of use, a kitchen that ticks all the boxes requires the right appliances. A mere 20 years ago, integrated appliances might have been viewed as high-tech. Nowadays these are commonplace. The dishwasher, which was at one time a luxury, has become a standard feature in most family kitchens. Alaris uses top-quality kitchen appliances from our partner manufacturer, Siemens. The Siemens ranges of ovens, hobs, dishwashers, fridge freezers and laundry systems are cutting-edge, quiet and efficient – with streamlined looks to match. Lack space but love gadgetry? Enter Siemens’ specialist range of compact appliances. Even the tiniest of kitchens can enjoy top-quality technology…

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1. Moving Home Right up at the top of the list is a house move. Many people purchase their dream home, only to discover that it doesn’t feature their dream kitchen. A new kitchen is often the first job people tackle when they want to make their new space their own. 2. Extending Closely related to the above, a home extension often includes changes to the kitchen space. After all, it is the heart of the home. In recent years, Alaris has noticed significant changes in the way we use our kitchens. Comfortable seating, flat screen TVs, breakfast bars and island units all make the kitchen a multi-functional space. Unsurprisingly, the majority of homeowners want to make the most of it. 3. Appearances count Kitchen fashions aren’t quite as fickle as in other industries, however styles certainly change over time. At Alaris, we reckon it takes around seven years for a particular ‘look’ to become mainstream, by which time the next big thing is usually on its way. Futuristic kitchens feature sleek lines and concealed handles. Traditional kitchens have their own trends too, with painted finishes currently triumphing over wood. Regardless of personal taste, there’s something for everyone. 4. Practical magic Busy lifestyles, coupled with the popularity of cooking and home baking, mean that the modern kitchen is a real workhorse. Deep reinforced drawers carry heavier loads than ever before. Space saving solutions, including tilting and sliding units, ensure that each ingredient, utensil and casserole dish are within easy reach. Which budding chef wouldn’t want a piece of that action? 5. Technological touches Oven? Check. Microwave? Check. Dishwasher? Check. Fridge freezer? Check. Today’s kitchen appliances are energy efficient, quiet and designed to complement, rather than compromise, your kitchen’s look and feel. Changes in technology often drive a change to the wider kitchen itself – particularly for those of us who can’t resist a gadget. Boiling-water tap anyone?

Alaris specialise in providing unique design solutions for luxury fitted kitchens. Every kitchen is designed with your lifestyle in mind to ensure that your new kitchen is just not just a thing of beauty, but that it will be a joy to live with. Alaris designers work with the best kitchen products available from Germany and the UK enabling them to provide you with the best solution at the most competitive price.

Alaris Dartford: Unit 3 Schooner Park, Crossways Business Park, Dartford, Kent DA2 6NW. T: 01322 275 511 E: sales@alarisavenue.co.uk Alaris Bromley: 116 High Street, Bromley, Kent BR1 1HG. T: 0203 771 4040 www.alariskitchens.co.uk

KITCHENS SPECIAL

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KITCHENS SPECIAL

Grants of sevenoaks

John Grant has been creating high quality, bespoke kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, studies and free standing furniture for over 30 years.

ach piece of furniture, whether free standing or fitted is created to my clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s individual design and personal needs. I am keen to listen to your ideas, and advise on all wood types and their benefits, as well as paint finishes and the resulting appearance. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I combine traditional hand crafted joinery methods, and hand finishing to the highest standards with modern high quality fittings, accessories and appliances. I encourage my clients to view each commission as it takes shape at my workshop in Seal, to ensure that their needs are met, even if they change as the work progresses. I arrange and coordinate the whole process from design to completion. THE DETAILS Unit 3, Chart Farm Seal Chart, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0ES Telephone: 01732 763610 | 07809 504251 info@grantsofsevenoaks.co.uk www.grantsofsevenoaks.co.uk

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KITCHENS SPECIAL

So you have decided on a new floor and its wood –

? e n o t s t i s i or

Maybe you’ve just moved in, or possibly it’s time for a makeover. But where can you go, what choice is there and can you have confidence in a company?

ou’ve tried on-line, only to find the same old drab flooring sold by faceless companies just interested in selling, not in listening. So off to the High St. but where’s the choice, where’s the advice and where is the care? Actually closer than you think……….. Wood and Stone Floors, with their distinct blend of exclusive, quality flooring materials have expanded and have now opened a new flooring studio in Westerham. The new studio with even more exclusive ranges is open at The Pheasantry on the Green. Wood and Stone Floors supply an extensive range of wood and stone flooring with bucket loads of help, support and advice. For a floor that oozes individuality, Wood and Stone Floors is the ‘go-to’ place for quality natural flooring. Commercial Director Mark Hoyle and his team have created the latest Wood and Stone floor Design Studio with ‘WOW’ factor. Not content to provide just a wide range of beautiful flooring products, they will sit down over a coffee to discuss your project and can help in your design and choice. Importantly they will advise on the best product, construction and fit for your home. Indeed if you need your floor installed, Wood and Stone Floors offer an unrivalled 5 year guarantee. That’s right – 5 years! Mark is keen to emphasise customer support and guidance: “so many suppliers simply don’t understand that a new floor is both an investment the customer needs to love at first and adore for years to come. Like a new kitchen or conservatory, a new floor is an investment that will improve and add value to your home. So range and support to aide our client’s choice is crucial. Between us we have over 70 years of experience; it is important we utilise this to our clients benefit.” And what of current ranges? Adding

to the already comprehensive range of materials is the new 2016 wood collection featuring many unique finishes but featuring the new Pembrokeshire selection. An indulgent range of eight engineered Oak boards sympathetically aged and antiqued, hand – scraped to emulate the footfall of thousands of feet. Double smoked to create inviting and warm Bourbon tones the Pembrokeshire selection is compatible with underfloor heating when appropriately bonded and all with matching solid Oak trims. Wood and Stone floors have a reputation for exceptional Stone and Porcelain and additions to the 2016 range simply accentuate this. New and exotic limestones for contemporary or traditional designs are currently being added. Expanding this theme is the new 2016 porcelain wood tiling collection. The beauty of wood, the durability of porcelain often with original design cues, provides that individual theme for the ultimate bespoke concept. And new to Wood and Stone floors are two wall cladding systems. Lattidudes, a collection of textured and three dimensional wooden wall panels; made from reclaimed timber, milled and repurposed to create rich textured panels all precision engineered to fit seamlessly over any interior structure or wall. Our second is the Meridian collection of natural stone cladding. Produced from limestones, quartzite, basalt, slate and sandstone, all created specifically for interior and external cladding finishes. Each varies from riven to honed, spilt to natural, even mosaic. The perfect wall finish creating that touch of luxury. THE DETAILS

Wood and Stone floors have a reputation for exceptional Stone and Porcelain and additions to the 2016 range simply accentuate this.

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So, a wood or stone floor with that touch of luxury? Then WOW yourself at the Design Studio, Wood and Stone Floors Westerham, or click woodandstonefloors.co.uk or call 01959 565657.

KITCHENS SPECIAL

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Creative Interior Designs Creative Interior Designs are based in Kent with showrooms in Beckenham and central London

e specialise in the supply and if required the installation of quality German kitchens. Our handless kitchens have been a huge success with a large choice of door fronts including glass, 3 internal carcass colours and many different internal storage solutions, all of course soft closing. We have several options for the led intergrated lighting, with some ranges able to change fromm cool white to warm white to combine perfectly with other lighting systems. Our designers will work with you either from architects drawings or a home visit to take measurements and then produce a design and quote based on your specifications. We are able to supply all types of worktops and appliances. We partner to Neff and Siemens and many of their models can be seen on display along with sinks and taps from various manufacturers includings Blanco, Quooker and Franke. As well as quoting for the supply of your new kitchen we can also offer full project management with all aspects of the installation taken care of. THE DETAILS If you would like some more information on our products and services please call or email: Creative Interior Designs, 71 High Street, Beckenham, Kent BR3 1AW 020 8663 3393 | info@creative-iduk.co.uk

KITCHENS SPECIAL

The Handleless kitchen is a contemporary classic with its pure and simple clean lines and curves. Gloss finish, available in a choice of colours. Handleless Gloss units, from £166 for a hi-line one door 600mm base unit. All these kitchen units for £1,572.

As we look forward to spring, thoughts inevitably turn to exciting new projects and long-overdue home renovations. If you’re thinking of updating your kitchen this year, Wren Kitchens has everything you need to make your dream scheme a reality.

ith 54 state-of-the-art showrooms across the country, Wren Kitchens prides itself on being the largest kitchen retailer in the UK. Each one of its units is made in Yorkshire, ensuring that quality design, sustainable manufacturing and British heritage are at the heart of its values. Over three unique ranges, Wren Kitchens has designs to suit every budget. The Extra Value kitchens are perfect for first-time buyers and property developers, whilst the Designer range offers stunning kitchens for any home. If you’re searching for a bespoke-style kitchen without the matching price tag, look no further than the extensive Linda Barker

The Contour kitchen design is fit for any modern home. Available in 40 stunning colour choices, and a Matt, Gloss, or Eggshell finish. 600mm base units from £185. All these kitchen units for £4,525.

collection. Keep to classic country with tongue-and-groove panelling and a neutral palette, or go for a modern update with glossy handleless units. No matter what your home’s aesthetic, the range of styles and colours means there’s something for you. By controlling the supply chain from manufacturing to delivery, Wren Kitchens provides a comprehensive service for great value. Thanks to extensive choice and careful craftsmanship, you can enjoy a stylish new kitchen that’s beautifully built and designed for you. As market leaders in high-quality British manufacturing, Wren also uphold a high-level of environmental responsibility. In Wren’s Scunthorpe factory, specialist machinery works to cut and shape the worktops, producing a lot of surplus sawdust. Giant suction pipes collect all of the spare cuttings, filling 1-2 trailers a week. Local farmers and landscapers then take advantage of this and reuse it on nearby rural projects. THE DETAILS

Striking sleek black worktops give a contemporary twist to the natural finish of the oak cabinets in this stylish design. Prices for a 600mm base unit start from £203. 40 colour choices. All these kitchen units for only £4,182.

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To see the full collection, search wrenkitchens.com Or visit your local showroom today. Orpington, Springvale Park, BR5 3SG

HOME & GARDEN

Greyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Anatomy Once upon a time, magnolia ruled in homes. The warm peachy shade was for years apparently the only choice for walls - until out of the shadows came grey.

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“

t’s an interior designer’s murder mystery - did grey kill magnolia?” teases Kate Watson-Smyth, whose new book, Shades Of Grey, focuses on the power of a grey palette and explains in crystal clear fashion, spiced with a liberal dash of humour, how to use it stylishly. “Nowadays poor old magnolia’s a byword for all that is bland, blah and boring in interiors, even though in its heyday it was lauded as being practical because it didn’t show the dirt, and its soft colour instantly suggested homeliness. “Unfortunately, new lighting in the Nineties, not grey, was the real culprit, which gradually brought about its demise. The harsher, cooler, clearer light of halogen, LED and fluorescent lamps, which replaced incandescent bulbs, simply made magnolia look terrible and left the field clear for grey, which now rules the roost. Our love of all things Nordic and the popularity of grey in fashion has also played a part in our passion for this palette.” Fresh, modern and easy to match to other colours, it’s perhaps hardly surprising that elegant, sophisticated grey is currently regarded as the perfect neutral. There’s only one snag - deciding which shade to choose. As if the names for shades weren’t baffling enough - take these, ‘Elephant’s Breath’ is actually mid-grey, ‘Blackened’ is actually pale blue, bestselling ‘Down Pipe’ is dark grey while ‘Clooney’ (named after George, natch) is a bluey grey - the number on offer can induce paint chart paralysis. Fifty shades? Forget it - Dulux recently expanded its range and now offers a mind-boggling 557 greys. “Grey’s one of the hardest colours to get right when it comes to decorating your home. Get it wrong and the effect can be cold and energy-sapping, but if it’s right it will look ultra chic and modern, so although it takes a bit of mastering, it’s well worth it,” says Watson-Smyth. “To find the best shade, you need to consider a few key things, including which direction your room faces, what time of day you’ll be in there, the prevailing weather and, last of all, the actual shade you like! “Hopefully, by understanding grey, you’ll be spared from buying a zillion expensive sample pots, having walls daubed with confusing splashes of paint, or painting a whole room in the wrong shade and finding it resembles a prison cell! I’ve done it myself in my kitchen and had to repaint it. Just be warned, once you’ve gone grey, you’ll be hooked.”

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HOME & GARDEN MAKING GREY WORK How you use a room has a bearing on the intensity of grey you should use. “If you’re in a room mainly in the evening, or always have the lights on, you can afford to opt for a dark shade,” advises Watson-Smyth. “Rooms in use all day long and beyond, such as a kitchen where you also eat in the evening, require a grey which works with natural or electric light. For daylight hours, dark grey will work particularly well if you have a reasonably light room to start with. “Dark walls in a kitchen work well with a light floor and cabinets - choose warm greys for north-facing rooms and cool greys for south-facing rooms. Dining rooms, which often suffer from lack of light, can be painted in dark greys which will conjure an intimate, cosy atmosphere but if this room’s also used in the day, opt for a lighter grey. EXPERT VIEW: “Grey paint is like the chocolate on a biscuit. Just as that will bring out the flavour of the biscuit, so grey brings out the depth of the other colours it sits with,” says Marianne Shillingford, creative director of Dulux.

Dark walls in a kitchen work well with a light floor and cabinets

“The warm light of a south-facing room allows you more freedom of choice - pale greys can work as well as dark ones. East and west-facing rooms can be tricky, as the light will change from warm to cold as the sun moves across the sky. The secret is to look for a shade which will warm the cool and tone down the warm. For east-facing rooms, try greys with a blue or green base.” A shade to consider, she suggests, is Little Greene’s French Grey, a warm pale grey which won’t dominate or darken a space. Absolute matt emulsion, £19.25 for 1L (www.littlegreene.com). EXPERT VIEW: “I started by painting one alcove in my house grey - it’s a good way to experiment with a shade - and then fell in love with the colour and painted the whole house in dark grey. It’s the best interiors move I ever made,” enthuses interior designer Abigail Ahern. To be safe, buy a sample pot and apply a generous amount in various places in a room, to see how the colour alters at different times of the day.

SEE THE LIGHT Grey’s enduring popularity over the last decade is partly down to the cold, clear Northern light we enjoy in this country - put simply, grey just looks good here - but always evaluate how much natural light a room gets and the direction it comes from. “For a small and dark north-facing room, don’t fight the space by painting it a pale colour,” says Watson-Smyth. “Instead, embrace its cosiness. Pick a strong shade of grey - as near to black as you dare - and use on every wall.

GREY MATTERS Always consider the effect that your existing furniture, textiles and flooring may have on a paint shade - no grey is ever seen in isolation. “Grey goes with all the other colours on the wheel, so you could throw in some pink until you feel like a change, and then maybe swap it for orange or yellow. It’s probably more affordable to swap the accessories than the wall colour,” suggests Watson-Smyth. “Be aware, though, that light will bounce off a bright pink sofa and turn walls slightly violet. Modern LEDs often throw out light with a blueish tinge, which will add to the pink purple effect. “If you’re concerned a room may look too plain painted all grey, use a textured wallpaper as a base to add interest. Skirting boards and radiators painted the same grey as walls will open up and enhance a space and painting a ceiling a paler shade of the wall colour, rather than white, can also be effective.” EXPERT VIEW: “Grey has a mercurial personality. It can be masculine or feminine, strong or subtle, depending on how it’s used and the overall design palette,” says American designer Kelly Wearstler. “I love playing shades of grey off metallic, marble or hand-painted silk wall coverings in a room. A monochrome palette of grey and white allows geometric forms, patterns and textures to have a stronger voice.”

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HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN

Red House Architects Formed in 2012, Red House Architects is based in Petts Wood. The founder, Mark Hudson, has 30 years experience, primarily in high quality private house architecture.

supporter of the Arts & Crafts Movement, Mark chose the company name to reflect his passion for the work of William Morris, with the purpose of crafting beautiful, finely appointed homes where careful attention is afforded to every detail. Mark is a very practical, hands on, Architect having worked on building sites from age of 16. This first-hand experience of construction has proved invaluable in developing Mark’s knowledge of the mechanics of building which enables him to design with confidence. The best buildings start with engaging dialogue between architect and client – the very best buildings are finished with impeccable attention to detail and a traditional design aesthetic. Mark is able to achieve this by drawing on his wealth of experience creating fine houses and interiors for discerning clients and from a background in historic building and conservation work. Red House Architects offer a full range of services, starting with an initial, free, no obligation consultation. Once we understand your requirements we tailor our service to fit your specific needs and budget; whether providing planning drawings, or a comprehensive service including detail drawings for tender and

building regulations, through to construction. Whether you are planning internal alterations, an extension or a new house, we can help you through what should be a very exciting process but for many seems daunting. Using a mixture of hand drawn and computer 2D drawings together with 3D images we can turn design ideas into reality. LIFE : STYLE Home is the heart of life. The place you live in has to accommodate diverse activities, from sleeping to cooking, washing to relaxing. For the daily routine to be comfortable and enjoyable, your home must function well and be in tune with your lifestyle. There will be private spaces to retreat to and public spaces where family and friends can gather. As the years pass and needs alter, there will be changes of use and emphasis. To meet these far-reaching requirements demands careful planning, efficient servicing and sensible, flexible organisation. But a home is greater than the sum of its parts and getting the practicalities right is only half of the story. For most people, the special significance of “home” is where we feel at ease, where we belong, where we can create surroundings which reflect our tastes and pleasures. Creating a home is the discovery of those elements that convey a sense of place. Style has to be balanced with comfort and the intimacy of daily life, it is important to find out what you really like, the unique combination of space, light, colour and materials which will constantly refresh your spirits. For generations, the tradition of commissioning design has been the driving force for creative excellence and innovation. Let Red House Architects help you explore your ideas and create the perfect home for your life style.

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HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN

Morso Fires

Make the difference to your home! Newly open in the heart of Petts Wood, Morso Fires is a wood-burning stove showroom.

Morso stove is so much more than simply a stove, it quickly becomes the heart of your home. Combing timeless elegance with traditional craftsmanship and quality, it cannot be beaten. As a family business in the trade for many years we decided to move away from the standard ‘stove showroom’, with rows and rows of black boxes to choose from, restricted brand knowledge and drastic differences in quality we believe that Morso stoves need and deserve to stand centre stage. Our small but well equipped showroom

displays everything from a small but mighty inset model that can fit a standard sized opening in your property to a beautiful free-standing cylinder model with side glass to view from every angle, perfect for kitchen diners. With gas and oil prices steadily rising wood burning stoves are becoming essential for home owners, and aside from purchase and installation costs they will begin saving you money right away. It is encouraged to heat the room you are in, many of us waste money on the central heating to warm a house when in reality we spend most of our time in only a one or two rooms. And what could be better on a cold, dull day than the crackle of a real log fire, flickering flames and a warm cosy room? We pride ourselves on good customer service and installations tailored to your specific requirements, with a free survey we can assess the condition and suitability of your existing chimney or design a bespoke flue system if you do not have one, there is almost always an option for a wood burning stove, sometimes where you would have never imagined it.

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We have a large selection of ‘Defra Approved’ models, this means even in a smoke controlled area you can burn logs on one of the approved models. Morso have been making cast iron wood burning stoves for a very long time, over 150 years now. Danish technology and design producing modern yet timeless models that are loved as a piece of furniture rather than just an appliance. When you choose a Morso wood-burner, you make a choice for life. We truly believe the brand speaks for itself and we are proud to provide these superbly manufactured, elegant, fuel efficient and environmentally friendly cast-iron stoves. Come and visit our showroom today, let Morso make the difference in your home. THE DETAILS To find out more: Morso Fires Ltd, 180 Petts Wood Road, Greater London, BR5 1LG 01689 872745 www.morsofires.co.uk sales@morsofires.co.uk

HOME & GARDEN

Do you remember Hamiltons The furniture & Interior Design store in Chislehurst High Street?

We have caught up with them and found out their exciting news and plans. Hamiltons International was founded in 1982 by three Directors with four top class furniture showrooms in London & Kent, They specialised in bespoke and exclusive pieces from all over the world. You will probably remember the flagship store in Chislehurst...

enise Knights joined Hamiltons as their Interior Design Director in 1992, coming from a London Design Company she offered a full interior design and project management service. The showroom was refurbished and transformed. Hamiltons was the jewel in the High Street. The business continued to grow from strength to strength with Denise completing Denise Knights: 07774 701381 domestic interiors both locally and as far away as America, France, South Africa, Spain, Portugal, Hong Kong and Singapore. She also worked on commercial projects such as the boardroom at the London Metal exchange, English Heritage properties (gaining a Design Award), Crematoria and Restaurants. In 2001 with people’s shopping habits changing and parking in the High Street being restricted. Denise found that she was visiting clients on site rather than them coming to the store. So it was decided to leave the High Street and become totally mobile. At this time she was also commissioned to design and furnish show home projects for major London & South East England developers. From penthouse apartments in Central London to a refurbished show homes at the former Butlin’s Grand Ocean Hotel in Brighton and many more in between. Late last year at a family funeral, Denise was approached by a lady who recognised her. She congratulated her on the design she had completed on her house some 14 years previous. Denise remembered the house and the scheme as she has never designed two rooms the same. A few people joined in with the conversation saying “Hamiltons was a landmark in the High Street and is still sorely missed “ After a few minutes talking it transpired that Denise and her former client were actually long lost cousins and up until that meeting had no idea. It was then decided that Hamiltons needed to go back “home” and now have an office in Chislehurst. Many of Denise’s clients (having commissioned her for over 25 years) have become firm friends. She has watched their families grow and furnished many of their homes as they progressed up the property ladder.

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As a budding London designer, one of Denise’s first clients was Lynda Buchanan. Lynda at that time was a high flying, very successful international investment banker, Winner of the prestigious YWCA Academy of New York City award for international business woman of the year. Between them they transformed many of Lynda’s houses in England, Scotland & America. In 1998 Lynda relocated back from New York and left the world or finance. She then launched a Property Development & Project Management Company. The ladies have always kept in touch and in January this year they decided to join forces and merge. lynda Buchanan: 07909 995167 Lynda and Denise are now joint owners and Interior Design Directors of Hamiltons International Limited, bringing their skills & knowledge together. A very exciting time for the company and it’s clients. Hamiltons is mobile and online bringing the wonderful world of interiors direct to you, also offering virtual consultancies over Skype, Email or Social media. They are only a click or call away... THE DETAILS www.hamiltons-international.co.uk

Hamiltons International IS back! Designing interiors for over 30 years

At home or virtual interior design consultancies available. Visit the website www.hamiltons-international.co.uk Contact Denise for more information on 07774 701381

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HOME & GARDEN

Homeleigh

The complete building, gardening and DIY Group 50 years of Quality and Service Homeleigh stock a massive, comprehensive range of building supplies including Timber, Bricks, Blocks, Fencing, Tools, Fixings, Landscaping, Aggregates, Plumbing, Drainage, Ironmongery, Decorating and everything you will need for your home and garden.

omeleighâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s have been in business since 1966 and have become the go-to builders merchants in Kent with branches in Staplehurst, Cross-at-hand, Aylesford near Maidstone and a new depot in High Halden. Homeleigh offers a comprehensive range of building materials for the trade and DIY customers. Because Homeleigh are experts in their field you can trust them to provide the very best in quality and service at competitive prices. Aggregates If you need large quantities of aggregates for professional building needs or an attractive selection of gravels, stone chips or decorative shingle, Homeleigh stock a wide variety of materials at highly competitive prices and for the building trade they have everything builders need for any size of project, including high quality building sand, cement and sharp washed sand, they also stock a range of specialist materials with more and more emphasis being placed on using environmentally friendly materials. Bricks and Blocks Homeleigh stock a wide range of bricks and blocks for building and construction in a range of styles, densities and finishes, they also include reclaimed. Whatever youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re building Homeleigh quality bricks and blocks will stand the test of time, so whether you need standard or specialist bricks for external, internal, cavity walls, foundations or floors they have a huge range of stock to match your exact requirements. Homeleigh can help you

choose the type of brick to match your needs or budget. Building Materials Homeleigh pride themselves on their fast supply of high quality, building materials of all types, for any project wherever and whenever you need it. From all types of bricks, varying density blocks and damp proofing through to bulk orders of aggregates, sand, cement and other building consumables we can supply what you need for any size or type of construction project. DIY and Gardening products Homeleigh will make sure that you get the right tools and quality products to make a success of your home or garden project because they have built a solid reputation across Kent as the place to come to for a superb range of DIY and gardening supplies, they offer excellent value, low cost options for those on a budget to a complete stock of famous brands and market leading products. Fencing and landscaping Homeleigh can help you to create the garden

of your dreams with an amazing selection of fencing & landscaping products. Make your garden bloom with their superb range of fencing and landscaping supplies from attractive block paving to stunning natural slabs, an impressive stock of flag and kerb stones which will fit strikingly into a lovely path snaking

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across the lawn or choose from a range of colourful rockery stones. Painting and decorating Homeleigh are the first stop for high quality paints, varnishes, woodstains and painting supplies for all your decorating needs. They will give you all the help you will need with expert advice and highly competitive prices to give you the perfect finish to any painting project. Plumbing and drainage Homeleigh say that they are the first people to come to for all your plumbing & drainage needs and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to disagree because they provide a watertight solution to your plumbing or drainage needs and have an unbeatable selection of plumbing and drainage solutions at competitive prices. If you are looking for sanitary ware, tools, spares or sundries and everything you could need for your heating, drainage or plumbing. Timber and sheet materials Hardwood, softwood, plywood, MDF, C16/C24 carcassing, doors, mouldings, Homeleigh are there to help. Because they have the complete solution to all your timber, wood and sheet material requirements. Homeleigh are the leading stockists in Kent of a wide selection of timber, wood and sheet materials for use in the building trade, construction and DIY. THE DETAILS For more information visit www.homeleighgroup.co.uk

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743-745 Sidcup Rd, New Eltham, SE9 3SA (located along Sidcup Bypass)

Tel: 0208

127 4747

TRAVEL

Afarawaanyd in... EAST AFRICA

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to imagine what the world might look like following the collapse of humanity.

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For astronaut George Taylor, Charlton Heston’s character in 1968 film Planet of the Apes, it looked very much like this. Surging skyward from millennia-old riverbeds parched crisp by the sun, hundreds of steaming fumaroles and limestone chimneys served as a fitting backdrop for the postapocalyptic sci-fi movie. As I weave through spiralling calcareous sculptures silhouetted by a jaundiced bitter yellow sunset, a mosaic of salt flats pops and crunches underfoot. On the horizon, a woman cloaked in billowing purple silks navigates a herd of goats and donkeys through a dusty haze. There’s no sign of Taylor’s forlorn Statue of Liberty submerged in the sand, but I share the same sense of discovering a forgotten civilization from a lost period in time. I’m standing on the flamingo-streaked shores of Lake Abbe in Djibouti, a small country in the Horn of Africa, bordering Ethiopia, Somaliland and Eritrea. A charred, volcanic wasteland, it sits in the centre of the Afar Triangle, where three pieces of the Earth’s crust are slowly shifting apart, and forms part of the Great Rift Valley, a continuous 6,400km geographic trench that’s visible from space. Aside from a brief flirtation with Hollywood, the only international interest in Djibouti has been a military one. The former French colony provides a safe and stable base from which to monitor a volatile region, where civil war is raging

20 miles across the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait in Yemen, and the threat of Somali pirates still hangs over the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea. Proximity to war zones, poor infrastructure (there are few roads and no hot water in the entire country) and a population that swings between inquisitive and inhospitable, hardly provide the platform for a thriving tourist industry. Yet the opportunity to explore Dali-esque landscapes plucked straight from the pages of National Geographic is too good for adventurous travellers to turn down. I’ve joined Explore Worldwide’s first escorted tour through the region and it’s completely sold out. Travelling in a convoy of 4WDs, we thump and bump over rocky, arid terrain, through deserts dotted with thorny acacia bushes and little else. It’s a hostile environment, and inhabitants are suitably abrasive. As we approach a nomadic settlement of huts built from sun-bleached branches, our drivers speed up. Unruly children from the Afar tribe chase the vehicles, some throwing stones, others cheekily poking out brilliant pink tongues from jet black faces, while their shy Muslim mothers hide beneath a swirling mass of colourful fabrics. Even as I raise my camera, our driver, Ermi, shakes his head. “They won’t like it,” he says, as another rock bounces off the bonnet. It’s easy to understand why local people are so suspicious;

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TRAVEL

up until now, few tourists have bothered to come this far. It’s more common for foreigners to congregate in coastal areas, attracted by pristine coral reefs and the opportunity to swim with juvenile whale sharks. Jason Shrewsbury from local operator Dolphin Services offers to take me out on a skiff boat in search of the gentle sea giants. Originally employed at the American military base, the blond, 20-something dive instructor developed a passion for the marine world while stationed here. “These days, everyone stays in their bases,” he laments as we leave the busy port of capital Djibouti City, which is choked with liners transporting goods to neighbouring Ethiopia. “But the best part of Djibouti really is underwater.” From November to January, whale sharks feed in these clear, warm waters and tourists have the chance to snorkel alongside them. As soon as we catch sight of a polka-dotted creature, I dive in and, like a bunny in a juggernaut’s headlights, find myself staring into a gaping, metre-wide, pillar-box mouth. More interested in measly krill than a meaty human, the largest fish in the sea glides past and disappears into the inky depths as I frantically struggle - and never succeed to catch up. After an hour spent swimming along the coast, where butterfly fish and manta rays lurk beneath table coral big enough to host a deep sea banquet, I agree with Jason about Djibouti’s marine merits. It would, though, be unfair to dismiss the rest of the country. The rubbish-strewn Yemeni refugee camps surrounding Djibouti City don’t make for comfortable sightseeing material, yet they give a sobering insight into a detached, troubled world often only viewed through TV screens. (Last year, David Beckham came here as part of his project 7: The David Beckham Unicef Fund.) At times life feels almost as worthless as the plastic bags rolling like tumbleweed in the dust, and there’s an unavoidable sadness about Djibouti, a sense it’s been abandoned. But beyond the rusting water canisters left here by aid workers and bottle tops moulded into the mud, is a geological

wonder world comparable to nowhere else on earth. From the petrified Day Forest National Park in the Goda Mountains, to the lowest point in Africa, the vividly turquoise and heavily saline Lake Assal, there’s a wealth of natural attractions. With a bit of love, it could have so much potential. The Ethiopian government and their Chinese investors clearly think so, and have spent several billion dollars on a train line to link Addis Ababa with the port in Djibouti City, one of Africa’s most important trade routes. Our journey to Djibouti also started in the Ethiopian capital, and Explore’s decision to combine the two countries in an itinerary is wise. With tribal groups spilling across the border, there are clear cultural similarities and a trade dependency means fortunes are inextricably linked. In contrast to its stagnant neighbour, Ethiopia is developing at an accelerating pace. In the last few years, several thousand kilometres of road have been asphalted, and while driving across the country, we share carriageways with wooden carts piled high with hay bales and women in burkas riding horse back. The famine-ridden Band Aid years have been consigned to the past and a new picture of progress is emerging. Bucking perceived stereotypes, Ethiopia can be remarkably green (and cold) as I discover on a trek through the Bale Mountains in search of endangered nyala, giant mole rats and Ethiopian wolves. Condensation rises from ponds and thick clouds suffocate the basalt landscape as we race to beat falling darkness and plummeting mercury levels. But perhaps most remarkable of all is the degree of religious harmony, with Muslims and Christians co-existing peacefully. The medieval walled city of Harar even earned UNESCO status for being “a city of tolerance, peace and diversity”. A high percentage of the population is addicted to chewing khat, and as I sidestep over men sprawled supine in the street, one with a bunch of hibiscus flowers wedged into his hair with an afro comb, I wonder how much the natural stimulant is responsible for the laidback, carefree vibe. Regardless of religion or ethnic grouping, the people here share a sense of national pride. That’s one “good” they might want to consider exporting to Djibouti.

It’s easy to understand why local people are so suspicious; up until now, few tourists have bothered to come this far. It’s more common for foreigners to congregate in coastal areas, attracted by pristine coral reefs and the opportunity to swim with juvenile whale sharks.

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BOOK REVIEWS

The

BookShelf

“Valentines Day, gone; Mothering Sunday, on its way, so a trio for the girls - and men, take note.” WORDS by Bruce Edwards

How to Chose a Partner Susan Quilliam Pub. by: P/b:

The Communication Generation Carole McCall Pub. by: P/b:

Arena Books £14.99

Last month we looked at ‘How to make a Home’ - here’s another gem from ‘The School of Life (q.v.) in keeping with the theme. Pocket sized, you can slide it into a jacket (handbag?) when you go the Speed Dating evening in the village hall or local pub . . . um, perhaps not. The opening sentence is ‘Choosing a romantic partner is one of life’s biggest adventures’. Not to be undertaken lightly? It’s suggested a larger proportion of ‘partners’ will be selected via a mobile device in the future - the communication generation here is not chatting up the opposite sex at the weekly dance or even in the supermarket (yes, it does happen) but on Facebook. Levity aside, much common sense is found within, not that it will always apply when lust and romance surface. But it’s a useful yardstick on how a relationship can develop and, with many a hint on the pitfalls to avoid, it may even be the salvation for some. Perhaps a graduation gift - or will it be too late by then? ISBN:

Yes, it’s the age of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram et al, either the bane or the absolute necessity of life, and much may be said about the PC behaviour of people with mobile phones glued (superglue provided in a sachet with every new phone) to a hand, be it walking, sitting in the train, at a restaurant table - even, dare I say, in the loo. We may argue the validity of modern technology until the cows come home (Mummy, why does a cow need to come home?) but it’s here to stay, like it or no. There’s a sub-title here; “A Perfect Perusal of a Purple Patch” and maybe you’ll wonder why. Well, Carole has a happy way with descriptions and the opening chapter does her justice - her window gives vision to beautiful flowered purple wisteria to offset Italianate style houses. It sets the scene and the lovely stories follow on in abundance, describing how communications, even via Messenger, can be the purple patches on an otherwise dull existence. Text on . . . ISBN:

Macmillan £7.99

978-1-909421-63-9

978-1-4472-9329-3

Marriages are made in Bond Street Penrose Halson Pub. by: H/b:

Macmillan £16.99

So now we’re au fait with communications and the nuts and bolts of partner selection, we can afford to look at another facet of the marriage game, that of the Marriage Bureau. True stories ‘from a 1940’s Bureau’ - oh how beautifully oldfashioned and wonderfully evocative. Would that the clock could be turned back, the mobile never invented and the adventuresome encouraged to cross the Bond Street threshold to falteringly expand on their ideal future marital prospects. This is the stuff of many an early novel’s plot, the original ‘boy introduced to girl’ idea. Arranged marriages? Gracious no, merely introductions! It still happens however, perhaps more via the personal columns of appropriate magazines (this section in the London Review of Books was once worthy of many a quote). The stories fascinate, even oddly titillate - ‘the minute she set eyes on him’; a rape that occurs in a bombed house’s cellar. At least Bureau introductions had the benefit of a caring third party involvement. No grooming allowed, no inappropriate behaviour. Exit Facebook, left. ISBN:

978-1-4472-8262-4 (Publishing: 24th March)

We’ve taken some trouble to present titles out of the ordinary - if you’d like to see your favourite author or a newly published title of your own reviewed in future, do offer suggestions to: writerselect@gmail.com.

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FOOD & DRINK

Time to smarten up

MEALTIMES?

After 15 years of marriage, Davina McCall surprised her husband Matthew by arranging to renew their vows in Las Vegas last Spring.

omantic as it sounds, the TV presenter and fitness fanatic insists it was quite the opposite. In fact, the whole day was a family affair, with their three children - Holly, 14, Tilly, 12 and nine-year-old Chester - secretly writing the vows on the plane, and two “really great friends” who couldn’t come to their wedding in 2000 joining in on the surprise. “I said to Matthew, ‘We’re going to renew our vows’, and his face sort of fell,” McCall, 48, recalls with a laugh. “He said, ‘Oh my God, that’s so cheesy. No!’ “I said, ‘Darling, we’re just going in our clothes, you don’t have to change into anything, we’re going to have a real laugh, the kids have written the vows’, a nd he went, ‘Actually, that’s quite cute’, and we all piled down to the Little White Chapel and laughed our way through our wedding vows. “It was brilliant because it was very casual, we didn’t make it into a great big thing.” After this long together, the couple have a good rhythm at home - but McCall notes that there’s always room for improvement... “It’s funny because recently, when I’ve worked a couple of nights, Matthew’s cooked for friends or cooked for the kids, and I think, ‘Hang on a minute, how come you never cook when I’m there?!’ “He’s actually quite a good cook, so I was like, ‘Right that is it you are going to cook for me a bit more!’ He’s very good at cooking, Matthew.” McCall - who can currently be seen hosting Channel 4’s winter sports show The Jump - is also a dab hand in the kitchen of course, recently adding another healthy-eating cookbook to her repertoire.

Written out of frustration at the confusing advice surrounding carbohydrates, Davina’s Smart Carbs seeks to simplify the issue. “I’ve always been telling everybody about eating a balanced, healthy diet [one that includes carbs], and then I suddenly thought, ‘Have I been telling people the wrong thing?’ Then a nutritionist told me that there are good carbs and bad carbs, and we came up with this idea of smart carbs. “It makes total sense; there are smart carbs, ones that are good for us - and there are some very simple changes we can make.” These changes include swapping white bread, rice and pasta for brown varieties (“That’s a no-brainer”) and using sweet potato in place of regular spuds. McCall recalls how she thought her kids would “baulk” when she first made a chicken crumble with a cauliflower, quinoa and Parmesan topping but actually they loved it. “It’s interesting, you think, ‘Oh well, the kids aren’t going to like it’, but the kids have got more adventurous with the new stuff I give them. They’re into trying new things.” She acknowledges mealtimes can be a battleground, however. “I’ve got three kids and quite often, two of them like something and one of them doesn’t. I don’t make them something different - I just say, ‘Have some of the veg and have a bit more of this if you don’t like that’. “I always try and get them to try it,” McCall adds. “The more somebody tries something, the more likely they are to like it in the end.” Fancy trying some of McCall’s recipes yourself ? Here are three tasty recipes from Davina’s Smart Carbs...

I’ve got three kids and quite often, two of them like something and one of them doesn’t. I don’t make them something different - I just say, ‘Have some of the veg and have a bit more of this if you don’t like that’. 92 MARCH 2016

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BUBBLE AND SQUEAK n 300g carrots, cut into chunks n 300g swede, cut into chunks n 10g butter n 150g spring greens, cabbage or Brussels sprouts, shredded n 1tbsp olive oil n 1 small onion, finely chopped n Olive oil spray n Poached or fried eggs, to serve (optional) Serves 4 n Salt and black pepper Bring a saucepan of water to the boil. Add the carrots and swede and cook them for about 10 minutes or until tender. Drain thoroughly, then tip them back into the saucepan and leave them over a low heat for a few minutes, just to help steam off any excess liquid. Swede in particular can get quite waterlogged, so this is important. Mash the carrots and swede with the butter until fairly smooth. Tip the mash into a bowl and leave it to cool, then chill it in the fridge for a while to firm it up. Wash the greens thoroughly, put them in a saucepan with a little water and cover the pan. Place the pan over the heat and cook for a few minutes until the greens have wilted down, then drain them thoroughly and leave them to cool. When you’re ready to cook the bubble and squeak, mix the root veg mash and the greens together and season with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan and gently fry the chopped onion over a medium heat until it’s softened and caramelising around the edges. Add this to the vegetables, then tip everything back into the frying pan and spread the mixture out into a large round. Cook the bubble and squeak over a medium heat for several minutes until it’s nice and brown underneath and cooked through. Meanwhile, preheat your grill to its highest setting. Spritz the top of the bubble and squeak with olive oil spray, then pop it under the grill for three to four minutes until it’s browning around the edges and in patches on top. Cut it into wedges and serve as part of a brunch with poached or fried eggs, if you like.

Serves 4

LAMB AND AUBERGINE CASSEROLE n 2 aubergines, cut into 2.5cm cubes n Olive oil spray n 1tbsp olive oil n 1 large onion, finely sliced n 600g lean lamb leg or shoulder, trimmed of fat and diced n 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped n 1/2tsp ground allspice n 1/2tsp ground cumin n 1/2tsp ground coriander n 1/2tsp cayenne or hot chilli powder n 1/4tsp ground cinnamon n 400g can of chopped tomatoes n 200ml chicken stock or water n 1tbsp pomegranate molasses n 1tbsp lemon juice n Small bunch of parsley, leaves only, to serve n Salt and black pepper Preheat the oven to 220C/200C Fan/Gas 7. Put the aubergines in a bowl and spritz them with olive oil spray, then turn them over and repeat. Spread the aubergines on a baking tray and roast them in the oven for about 20 minutes, until they’re starting to brown. Heat the olive oil in a large flameproof casserole dish. Add the sliced onion and cook it slowly over a gentle heat for about 10 minutes, until it’s soft and translucent, then turn up the heat and add the lamb. Cook until the lamb is well browned, stirring regularly, then reduce the heat and add the garlic and spices. Season with salt and pepper. Add the tomatoes and the stock or water. Bring to the boil, then turn down the heat, put a lid on the casserole dish and simmer for an hour until the lamb is becoming tender. Add the aubergines and the pomegranate molasses, cover again and cook for another 30 minutes. Remove the lid from the casserole. If the sauce is very liquid, simmer until it has reduced slightly, then add the lemon juice. Serve sprinkled with parsley.

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FOOD & DRINK

n 25g butter, plus extra for greasing n 8 ripe plums, halved and stones removed n 25g honey n 75g ground almonds n 25g flaked almonds, plus extra to garnish n Seeds from 3 cardamom pods, ground n 1/4tsp ground ginger n Pinch of cinnamon

3BEST... of the

BAKED PLUMS

Serves 4

To serve: n 1tbsp honey (optional) n 150g creme fraiche or yoghurt Preheat the oven to 200C/180C Fan/Gas 6. Grease an ovenproof dish with a little butter. Place the plums, cut side up, in the dish.

Tea-inspired gifts for Mother’s Day Time For Tea Gift, £15 (available online; www.marksandspencer.com) Presented on a pretty tray, this set of teatime treats includes buttery chocolate shortbread, tea bags and a lovely new mug to enjoy the brew in.

Put the 25g of honey with the butter in a small saucepan and warm them over a gentle heat until they’ve melted together. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir the almonds and spices into the butter and honey. The mixture should be quite crumbly, but it should clump together when squeezed.

Mother’s Day Tea For Two Biscuit Tin, £39.50 (www.biscuiteers.com)

Spoon about a dessertspoon of the mixture into the centre of each plum half. Bake the plums in the oven for about 15 minutes, or until they have completely softened and the topping is golden brown. Whisk the honey, if using, into the creme fraiche or yoghurt. Serve the plums with dollops of the sweetened creme fraiche and a few more flaked almonds as a garnish, if you like.

If you don’t want to say it with flowers, these sweetly-piped teapots from Biscuiteers will go down a treat. Presented in a lovely tin, each teapot comes with an accompanying tasty teacup.

Mother’s Day Gift Selection, £25 (www.bettys.co.uk) Add a smidgen of Bettys’ charm to mum’s afternoon tea with this tin hamper. Gifts include a perfectly iced Simnel cake, chocolate biscuits and a good stash of the legendary Yorkshire tea room’s house blend.

THE DETAILS

Davina’s Smart Carbs by Davina McCall is published by Orion Books, priced £16.99. Available now

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FOOD & DRINK

Restaurant Review This month, Food Editor Regan Maloney has visited two restaurants in Kent to give you her verdict on their menus. Full reviews of both restaurants, along with other great recommendations, recipes and dinner party game ideas can be found at www.whatiatelastnight.com

RG’s Restaurant

Utopia Spa Rowhill Grange Hotel &

Cardamom

ts Wood 7 Chatsworth Parade, Pet

Situated in an orangery style room adjacent to the hotel, RG’s offers a fine dining experience with large comfortable chairs and understated elegance.

Cardamom has a modern, yet comfortable feel. We visited on a Thursday evening and although not full, the restaurant was still buzzy and busy.

All of the waiters were extremely friendly and helpful, and explained some of the slightly more unusual ingredients in the dishes like ‘pumpernickel’. We were taken through the menu, and our waiter highlighted some of the new seasonal additions.

This is an independent, family owned restaurant and that came across in the extremely warm welcome that we received. All of the waiters were passionate about how they source their produce, the unique dishes that their Chef has created, and wanting to keep their locals happy and coming back.

Food

The menu consisted of classic steaks, a three course seasonal menu and A la carte. We were presented with a deliciously light and crisp homemade sourdough and butter when seated at the table. To start, I ordered the prawn, crab and crayfish cocktail - served in a deep and impressive glass and packed full of shellfish mixed in with a bloody mary dressing, apple and celeriac. For main, the Ash Down Forest venison loin was served beautifully pink, melted in the mouth and came accompanied by braised red cabbage, peppered jus, salsify and a chestnut puree. For dessert, a beautifully presented blood orange type mouse was served in a highball glass with puffy marshmallow squares, ginger ice cream and an orange crumb.

The menu contains curry restaurant favourites such as Biryani’s, Balti’s, Tikka’s and Tandoori specials, however we were drawn to the more unusual Cardamom speciality dishes. To start, we enjoyed their array of homemade chutneys and poppadoms, followed by Sheek kebab - beautifully spiced minced lamb barbecued in the Tandoor and served on a bed of salad with spiced onions and a yoghurt and mint dipping sauce. For main, our favourite was the King prawn Gingga, consisting of two giant king prawns the size of your hand, marinated and cooked in fresh ginger, herbs and capsicum (peppers), served in a perfectly spiced sauce. We paired it with pilau rice and the creamiest, most moreish of homemade saag paneer I have ever tasted. Our eyes were clearly bigger than our bellies as we couldn’t resist ordering a side of perfectly cooked garlic naan bread after seeing it when delivered to the table next to us.

Drink

There is an extensive crowd pleasing wine and cocktail list. We opted for a glass of sparkling rose to start, followed by a crisp and fruity, white Sancerre that accompanied the shellfish starter very well.

There is a small bar area to the front of the restaurant with spirits and beers available, and they have a reasonably priced wine menu with certain wines available by the glass or the bottle. We opted for a bottle of Malbec which was strong and fruity and accompanied the spices in the starter and main dishes well.

Picture perfect food in a relaxed and friendly environment.

A top-notch Indian restaurant and takeaway in the heart of Petts Wood

Ambiance Service

Overview

96 MARCH 2016 | www.thelifemagazines.com

ATLAS RESTAURANT

whether it’s a family get together, friends catching up or a romantic dinner Atlas invites you to indulge in rich Moroccan flavours as the meals at Atlas are times for family and friends sharing food and celebrating life.

ounique dining experience surrounding by smooth Arabian music, enjoying your favourite wine in warm and relaxing atmosphere.

n Our authentic dishes are freshly prepared using finest natural ingredients from our hearty Harira soup to our perfect brew Moroccan tea n We take pride in providing our customers with some of the finest Mediterranean cuisine to satisfied all the tastes n When it comes to presentation our unique style for serving the Tagines keep the food hot and add more distinctive flavours to the dish... From the point of view of a modern-day cook, [using a tagine] is a succulent way of cooking meat or vegetables,” says Ghillie Basan, the Scotland-based author of “Tagines and Couscous”

Newly refurbished for an exceptional dining experience, that incorporates all your favorite dishes. It is noreservations; but please feel free to book ahead and reserve your booking. The menu features traditional dishes, and incorporating Lunch and Dinner. Mixed in with a warm and friendly atmosphere and interior your sure to enjoy.

n Hospitality is highly regarded and moroccan mint tea At Atlas, it’s a sign of hospitality and tradition so join us for a refreshing cup of tea and if you want a nice foam on the tea we always pour it for you a high distance above the glasses n Through the hard work of our talented chefs and passionate staff we are determined to make your experience memorable. MENU OPTIONS Lunch set Menu 2 Courses £10.95 or 3 Courses £12.50 Dinner Set Menu 2 Courses £13.95 or 3 Courses £16.50

Atlas Restaurant 205 Pettswood Road BR5 1LA 01689 637 077 Info@atlas-restaurant.co.uk

www.atlas-restaurant.co.uk

17th CENTURY PUBLIC HOUSE

MARCH 2016

The hidden jewel in North Kent’s crown WEDNESDAY 9TH FRIDAY 11TH MONDAY 14TH THURSDAY 17TH FRIDAY 18TH SUNDAY 20TH WEDNESDAY 23RD FRIDAY 25TH GOOD FRIDAY SUNDAY 27TH MONDAY 28TH

STEAK NIGHT MENU TASTER NIGHT POKER NIGHT ST PATRICKS DAY! FISH NIGHT - LIVE MUSIC T.B.C QUIZ NIGHT STEAK NIGHT TAPAS NIGHT RESTAURANT NEIL DIAMOND TRIBUTE EASTER SUNDAY / EASTER EGG HUNT POKER NIGHT

THE BULLS HEAD Rushmore Hill Pratts Bottom Kent BR6 7NQ 01689 852 553 | www.thebullsheadpub.net | info@thebullsheadpub.net