Your free lifestyle magazine for Kent and East Sussex
Issue 10
Chris Saga
HELLO
Welcome to the May/June issue of Kudos Welcome to the latest issue of Kudos. It doesn’t seem possible, but this is our 10th issue (doesn’t time fly?), so to celebrate, we’ve given the magazine a bit of a redesign. I hope you like it! Summer is well and truly on its way, so we’re getting ready to greet the sun. Fashion is at the forefront of this issue, with pages of the latest trends from Next, fashion insight from local stores Sahara, Vacant Clothing and Stampede, and a profile on our local fashion celebrity, Karen Millen. Beauty-wise, we look at the latest celebrity facial trends (bee venom or bird poo, anyone?) and try something a little less outrageous, courtesy of Dr Hauschka. We also give tips on boosting your energy levels. And once you’re raring to go, we get you on two wheels with some healthy cycling for the whole family. The garden is one of the best places to be on a sunny afternoon. We tell you how to create a pond, and talk to the owner of a delightful Tunbridge Wells shop, le petit jardin, which is full of lovely things for the garden. We’ve also got delicious recipes for al fresco eating, whether it’s a picnic or lunch outdoors. Our feature in the last issue on whether too much technology too young is depriving our children of a happy childhood generated so much interest that we are continuing the theme in this issue. Of course we have our usual mix of local news and events, plus features from our own ‘local’ celebrities, like Dr Sophie Shotter, Alex Greig of Fuggles Beer Café pinterest.com/kudoskent/
and Joe Lloyd of Perk & Pearl, plus our latest columnists, Charles Spencer of The Poet at Matfield and Richard Ellis McCallum of A&E IT. We are very excited about how our magazine is evolving, and just want to thank both our advertisers and our loyal readers for their continued support. Enjoy the sun, and your issue of Kudos.
HANNAH TUCEK Publishing Director
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Managing Director: Robin Tucek Publishing Director: Hannah Tucek Editorial Director: Ann Wallace Creative Director: Neil Constant Chief Sub-Editor: Verity Willcocks Fashion Editor: Sally-Ann Carroll Photographer: Matt Harquail Beauty Editor: Lucy Hargrave Social Media Queen: Lady Katherine Sims
Advertising Sales: 01892 300321 Kudos is published bi-monthly by Bad Betty Media Ltd and printed by Garnett Dickinson
While every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers, authors and printers cannot accept liability for errors or omissions. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be produced in any form without the written permission of the copyright holder and publisher, application for which should be made to the publisher. Opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.
KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2015
WELCOME TO KUDOS
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CONTENTS
74 LOVE FEATURES Upfront 10
What’s new and happening
What’s on 18
Fashion forum 38
Local events guide
Meet your local fashionistas
Hit the deck 70
That’s entertainment 19
Face of an angel 44
Latest releases on stage and screen
Facials get the celebrity treatment
Pond life 74
Pets corner 21
Ask the doctor 47
Turn the spotlight on your best friends!
Cosmetic surgery questions answered
LOVE FAMILY As easy as riding a bike 78
Chill-out time 36
Beauty extra 48
Reynolds Retreat near Sevenoaks
Our pick of the latest products
Perfect gems 49
How to increase your energy levels 50
Birthstone jewellery
Get up and go with our top tips
Yummy mummy corner 82
LOVE FOOD Al-fresco eating 54
Especially for mums
Going green 89
Renault’s budget all-electric car, ZOE
Men only 90
Especially for men
Street life 96
Tunbridge Wells Street Pastors
LOVE CELEBRITY The fashion phenomenon 22
Cook local 58
Seasonal recipe and the kitchen to cook it in
Get the whole family cycling
Heads up 84
New technology: too much, too soon?
LOVE BUSINESS Business agenda 92
Help and advice, plus local business news
Garden glory 94
The Tunbridge Wells garden shop that’s blooming lovely
Fab food, new brews and perfect coffee
Let’s eat 64
A round-up of the latest foodie news
LOVE HOME AND GARDEN The beauty of wood 67
LOVE LOOKS Bohemian Rhapsody 26
Home, sweet home 68
CONTENTS
Make water a feature in your garden
Food, beer and the bean 61
The Karen Millen empire
Get folk-inspired with NEXT
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Easy food for picnics and lunch in the garden
Perfect decking, the eco-friendly way
Creating a wow island unit
Ideas to turn your house into a home
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CAMBER SANDS
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9am
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LOV E LOC AL
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UPFRONT What’s new and happening
AWARDS TIME FOR THE KENTISH HARE The Tanner brothers celebrate success
The Kentish Hare gastro pub at Bidborough near Tunbridge Wells opened in May last year, and after only 11 months of trading has achieved three prestigious awards. Last December they gained entry in the Michelin Good Pub Guide 2015, and in January were presented with a “One to Watch” award for the Top 50 Gastro Pubs in the UK by chef Tom Kerridge in Hertfordshire. The icing on the cake happened in January after an AA inspection when they received 2 AA Rosettes. The team were thrilled with this recognition for all their hard work, dedication and passion for food. The Kentish Hare is overseen by the Tanner Brothers. Chris and James have assembled a great team focusing on delivering the best fresh local food, complemented by a specially-selected range of superb wines, beers and spirits. They said: “It’s a great result for everyone here! The ‘One to Watch’ in the recent top 50 gastro pubs, followed by the AA award, is testament to our professional, passionate team who share our vision. We can only be successful with like-minded people around us in our businesses. We are so proud of their achievements and we will continue to strive forward together as The Kentish Hare leaps into summer!” www.thekentishhare.com
NEW ART EXHIBITION FOR WADHURST WOVEN will take place at WING Art Gallery, High Street, Wadhurst 30 May - 24 June 2015 Opening event Saturday 30 May 10am - 5pm in conjunction with the Weald Wool Fair Presented in conjunction with Pure Fine Art and opening on Saturday 30th May at WING Art Gallery, Wadhurst, as part of the Spring Weald Wool Fair, WOVEN will showcase artwork by a selected group of contemporary artists, whose work pushes the boundaries of both convention and process in their individual specialism. The exhibition will also feature a series of bespoke demonstrations and classes, ranging from costumed life drawing with draw artist Shelley Morrow, to hand-spinning demonstrations by local artisan Shirley Rotherea. Exhibitors will include textile artists Julia Desch, Ptolemy Mann, Marina Elphick, Anne Kelly and recent UCA graduate Ellie Rothero, draw artist Shelley Morrow, mixed-media artists Dizzy Pragnell and Freya von Bulow Papercouture, ceramicists Kate Schuricht and Jane Richardson, and master print maker Brenda Hartill RE. WING Art Gallery is one of East Sussex’s best-kept secrets. Opened by sculptor Gavin Roweth in November 2012 and situated in the heart of the charming Wealden village of Wadhurst, WING exhibits paintings and sculptures by a selection of established regional and UK artists. The first Weald Wool Fair took place in Wadhurst in August 2014 and proved so popular, attracting over 2,000 visitors that the organiser’s have three wool fairs planned for 2015. The first of these will take place on 30th May and will again be spread out throughout the village of Wadhurst. The fair will feature over 50 stalls, demonstrations and activities, including local, regional and speciality wools, yarns and fleeces, and selected local food producers. Meet the makers, talk to weavers, felters, knitters, spinners and dyers, and much more. 10
LOV E NEWS
Freya von Bulow Papercouture. Image courtesy of Epoch Weddings
Jane Richardson WOVEN at WING Art Gallery will be open Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm from Saturday 30th May. www.wingartgallery.com www.wealdwoolfair.co.uk KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2015
UPFRONT What’s new and happening
PLANT LIFE
Discover the life-changing influence of plants at an international open day From feeding the world to algae in your pond, visitors are invited to learn about plants during a day of science activities at the University of Greenwich. ‘The Fascination of Plants’ event celebrates flora from all around the world – including those found here in the Garden of England – and all are invited to join in the fun at the university’s Medway Campus, Chatham Maritime, on Sunday 17th May. Visitors will be able to see exhibits and take part in a range of plant-related science and art activities that will include fun for all ages. One of the organisers of the event, Dr Elinor Thompson, says: “The aim of this day is to encourage people to find out more about the plants in their lives, what we use them for and what effects they have on us, as well as looking at the global importance of plants. For instance, we will consider how we meet the challenge of producing 60 per cent more food for the predicted world population of 10 billion people in 2050.” Experts will be hosting a range of displays and activities to join in with, related to their work both nationally and around the world. These will include looking at ‘Our Day In Plants’, what makes plants green, meeting some insect pests and pollinators, and crops grown across the world. Dr Thompson adds: “The day will also include a focus on what is grown in Kent, and what careers and training are available to people who would like to work with plants, with staff from Hadlow College and East Malling Research joining us. “Events will be rounded off by a range of quizzes and raffles, freebies and snacks: we’re certain there will be something for everyone.” Many plant and agricultural experts work at the Faculty of Engineering & Science at the University of Greenwich. These scientists are using and developing new ways to maximise food production globally and ensuring farmers can adapt to climate change. This includes an on-site biofuel development and basic research into how plants respond to stress and disease. The Fascination of Plants Day will run from 11am-3pm on Sunday 17th May. It is organised as part of an international awareness campaign by The European Plant Science Organisation, which represents research institutes in 30 countries across three continents. The open day – which coincides with the launch of the university’s new Masters programme in Applied Plant Science – is free to attend.
Marmalade hoverflies visiting an ornamental Hypericum bush
For further information please call reception on 01634 880088 or email science-queries@gre.ac.uk, with the subject line ‘Fascination of Plants’. See www2.gre.ac.uk or www.epsoweb.org to find out more, or search MSc Applied Plant Science on Facebook.
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UPFRONT What’s new and happening
CALLING ALL LOCAL BUSINESSES Exciting community event in the pipeline
Kudos is proud to announce that we are working on a very exciting event in conjunction with Vacant Clothing to take place in Tunbridge Wells this summer. The concept is a catwalk fashion show with live bands and good local grub all in aid of charity. We are looking for models – women, men and children – of all ages and sizes. If you would like the opportunity to promote your business and model some fab clothes, then we want to hear from you! Equally, if you just like the idea of modelling for a day, whether you are two or 90, then we would love you to be involved! If you are interested in sponsoring the event, helping out in any way, then we also want to hear from you. This is going to be a fantastic community event and one to put in your diaries! We want to promote local businesses, promote fashion, promote the concept of real models and looking fab no matter what, whilst enjoying some great live bands and delicious food, hopefully with glorious sunshine! If this sounds good to you, then get in touch: editorial@badbettymedia.co.uk. Details of the event will take place in our July/August issue. Watch this space!
CALLING ALL BUDDING FASHIONISTAS Could you be the Young Fashion Designer UK 2015?
Is Fashion your passion? Do you dream design? Is your talent In textiles? Yes? Then Kent College wants to hear from you. Young Fashion Designer Competition UK is an exciting opportunity for talented students with flair in textiles, design and fashion to demonstrate their skills and showcase their work. Kent College is looking for future stylists, fashion designers, bloggers and seamstresses to showcase their work and gain rewards for their talents. In its fifth year and accredited by The Textile Institute and Design & Technology Association, the competition is open to GCSE, BTEC, IB and A-Level students nationwide. It’s a chance to highlight their excellence and innovative design skills and gives amazing opportunities that have helped previous winners across the UK shape their careers. All shortlisted applicants will have the amazing opportunity to attend the South finals at Kent College in Pembury, Tunbridge Wells, where they can display their work, take part in inspirational workshops and meet experts with invaluable experience and advice in a variety of areas from fashion blogging to buying, styling, costume design and fashion marketing. Kent College is now open for submissions from all schools and individuals in the South catchment area. Applications are open to students studying fashion and textiles at senior and secondary schools based in the South of England (Oxford and below) are now invited to enter this exciting competition. Entries are open until Monday 1st June 2015.
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On Saturday 4th July, Kent College will hold the finals, when the gifted students can present their work to be judged by the panel who will decide the winning students! The judging criteria is based on finding the student who best demonstrates original aesthetic flair, combined with capability for future critical distinction and commercial success. The winner’s work must also evoke the spirit of individuality and therefore, project a sense of style and craftsmanship. To enter, visit www.youngfashiondesigneruk.com/ register-online-359. For regular updates, visit www. youngfashiondesigneruk.com, and follow us on Twitter@ KentCollegePemb #YFDUK and Facebook facebook.com/ youngfashiondesigneruk.
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UPFRONT What’s new and happening
WIN TICKETS TO A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Enjoy Shakespeare at Squerryes this summer
For the first time, West End/Stratford Professional Shakespeare comes to Westerham near Sevenoaks to perform A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Shakespeare’s enduring comedy of magic, madness and mishap, against the stunning backdrop of Squerryes Court, one of Kent’s leading private stately homes. And you could be the lucky winner of two tickets to a performance, with drinks on arrival! Says Henry Warde: “The Squerryes estate has been home to our family since 1731. We are the eighth-generation Warde family and delighted to be hosting such a prestigious event.” Staged in a specially-built, all-seated arena and directed by awardwinning actor Ian Hughes, with a cast drawn from the UK’s leading classical theatre companies, this specially-created production promises to be an evening you’ll never forget. Experience the delights of its memorable characters and stunning setting, while enjoying a range of local foods and, of course, a glass of award-winning Squerryes! Shakespeare at Squerryes is on 18th, 19th and 20th June. For your chance to win two tickets, simply email your name, address and contact number to Sam@squerryes.co.uk by 30th May 2015. For tickets and information, visit www.squerryes.co.uk Twitter: @Squerryes Facebook: Squerryes
TERMS & CONDITIONS
The first correct entry drawn at random will win two tickets to A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Squerryes. Prize is as stated. No cash alternative can be offered. The competition is not open to employees (or their immediate families) of the promoters, their agents or anyone professionally connected to the promotion. The winner will be chosen at random and will be notified within 14 days of the competition’s closing date. By entering this competition, you agree to receive occasional details of offers and promotions from Squerryes. All entrants to competitions are deemed to have accepted these rules and agree to be bound by them.
UPFRONT What’s new and happening
TOP AWARD FOR DOCTOR
Dr Sophie Shotter wins Start-Up Business of the Year Dr Sophie Shotter, owner of Illuminate Skin Clinics in Kings Hill, Kent, has won the ‘Start-up Business of The Year’ Award at the 2015 Kent Women in Business Awards. This forward-thinking medical cosmetic doctor opened her first clinic in Kings Hill in September 2014, after being an independent medical cosmetic doctor across Kent for the last two years and working as an anaesthetist within the NHS until August 2014. After winning the award, Sophie said: “I hadn’t realised how nervous I was… I am just speechless but so happy.” She was encouraged to enter the awards not only by her patients but by the newest member of her team – Ellie Budgen, who provides results-driven treatments, such as medical facials and body contouring. Said Ellie: “Sophie provides a very personal service, where she truly cares for her patients, and ensures that they leave the clinic with a natural and subtle result, simply looking a better version of themselves. She takes the time to make sure that each patient feels valued, to ensure they know that they are not simply on a conveyor belt. She also applies this principle to her team, taking enormous satisfaction when developing us, working out what motivates us and helping us to achieve our personal goals.” So, what led Sophie to leave the NHS and open her own medical cosmetic clinic? During her final two years within the NHS Sophie found herself getting disenchanted with the bureaucracy and feeling unable to deliver the level of care that she wanted for her patients. She had
initially trained in cosmetic medicine with the intention of having a side-line business, for more of a work-life balance. However, she soon found that she loved running a business and ensuring every patient interaction was being delivered to the highest standards. As soon as she got to the point where she could no longer develop the business, whilst still having a full-time job, she took the decision to leave the NHS and set up her own clinic. She says: “Illuminate has gone from strength to strength in its first seven months. I believe I won this award as I realised from the very beginning that making my clients feel special will be my key to success.” www.illuminateskinclinic.co.uk
LOCAL SHOW HITS THE WEST END Exciting future ahead for The Dreamers musical
A pair of young writers from Tunbridge Wells have written a new musical that is heading to the West End this summer. In original words and music by James Beeny and Gina Georgio, The Dreamers tells the true and moving story of a war hero from Southborough, Captain David ‘Reggie’ Salomons, who led his regiment to the Battle of Gallipoli in 1915 – exactly 100 years ago. The show is performed by local six-piece band Virgin Soldiers and a cast of 20 young men and women from Kent and Sussex, and the story of the Great War is brought to life by on-screen narration from Amanda Redman, Christopher Beeny, Tim Rice, Philip Glenister and others. This emotional tale of courage and heroism brought audiences of all ages to their feet and moved many to tears when it premiered at the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells, last October. Following its local success, the First World War musical is now transferring to the West End, to the St James Theatre, Westminster, from 30th June to 11th Julyw. Surprisingly, 24-year-old Gina will be the only British female composer of a current West End musical. We spoke to Gina to find out what inspired her and James to write The Dreamers. “We were writing a song about Reggie Salomons for our band, Virgin Soldiers, but after looking further into his story, we felt that one song couldn’t do it justice. Working with a true story gave us a good starting point, and we were continuously inspired by the personal accounts of the soldiers and the families they left behind.” “Moving the show into London is really exciting, and we are looking forward to sharing the little-known story of a Kentish war hero with a wider audience.” KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2015
At a time when people all over the world are commemorating the events of 100 years ago, the overall message of this thought-provoking production is one of remembrance. Tickets can be booked on the St James Theatre website: www.stjamestheatre.co.uk or by calling the Box Office on 0844 264 2140. @TheDreamersUK www.facebook.com/TheDreamersUK LOV E NEWS
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WHAT’S ON Get out and about with our pick of local events
The bluebells at Pepenbury 30 MAY Pepenbury Fun Day – Pepenbury, Pembury Pepenbury’s annual Fun Day is open to everybody and will be held at their beautiful 100-acre site in Cornford Lane, Pembury. This year the West Kent Big Band, part of the Kent Jazz Academy, will be headlining the musical attractions and a special guest will be officially opening the Woodlands Community Project. A delicious hog roast from Southborough Butchers, a savoury waffle stand and homemade cakes, ice cream and refreshments from Pepenbury’s Coffee Shop will ensure nobody goes hungry. There will also be a number of stalls from local companies offering everything from silver jewellery to handbags. Then there will be all the usual activity stalls, plus face painting, glitter tattoos and a raffle. If you would like to find out more about what happens at Pepenbury, there will be tours of the site. Make a day of it and bring the children who will love the woods, countryside, animals and adventure trail – the woodlands are now accessible to wheelchairs and buggies! Open 1pm to 4pm. www.pepenbury.info 19-21 JUNE Frant Festival of the Guitar – Frant Church Music in Frant celebrates the magic of the guitar, from Bach to Hendrix, classical to electric, featuring some the foremost guitarists in the world – Craig Ogden (19th), Gary Ryan (20th), and Clive Carroll and John Etheridge (21st). Craig Ogden is one of the most exciting guitarists of his generation, and the most recorded, with labels including Sony, Hyperion and most notably Classic FM, where his last two albums shot straight to No.1 in the classical charts. Gary Ryan has performed to international acclaim for over 20 year and is one of only four guitarists to have been awarded a Fellowship of the Royal College along with John Williams, Julian Bream and Andrea Segovia. John Etheridge enjoys a glowing reputation in the world of jazz, whose collaborations with the likes of Dizzy Gillespie and Stephane Grappelli bear testament to his talent. But he has also performed with some great classical players, including Yehudi Menuhin and John Williams. Pat Metheny considers John Etheridge ‘one of the best in the world’. Clive Carroll has been described by the music press as ‘an incredible acoustic talent’ and ‘peerless’ (no other word for it). The Frant Festival of the Guitar promises to be a fantastic event. Doors open at 7.30pm for an 8pm start. Tickets are £13 per concert from Frant Stores, Britten’s Music Shop in Tunbridge Wells, online at www.wegottickets.com or tel. 01892 750665/750845.
For more events, visit www.kudoskent.co.uk
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THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT Latest releases on stage and screen
HEAD FOR AVENUE Q
Possibly the funniest adult musical with puppets ever! Avenue Q – one of the longest-running Broadway shows in history – comes to the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells. Avenue Q is not the most upmarket of New York streets, and is about as far away from Park Avenue as you can get, but it’s home to some lively and off-the-wall characters, performed by an unholy comedic alliance of humans and puppets! Princeton, a bright-eyed college graduate, has just moved to this neighbourhood as he desperately tries to follow his dreams and discover his ever-elusive purpose in life. A tiny bank balance, the distraction of a busty blonde and a variety of weird and wonderful friends and neighbours lead Princeton on a hilarious story of self-discovery. Following five years in the West End, sell-out runs worldwide and a smash-hit tour in 2014, Avenue Q is a fun ride, full of great songs and laughs – but strictly for adults. Avenue Q is co-created by Tony, Grammy and Emmy Award-winner Robert Lopez, who also co-created the smash-hit Broadway and West End musical The Book of Mormon. With his wife Kristen Anderson-Lopez, Robert also co-wrote the songs for Disney’s recent animated feature Frozen, and his TV work includes Scrubs, The Simpsons and South Park. Avenue Q is at The Assembly Hall, Tunbridge Wells from Monday 1st – Saturday 6th June. To book, call 01892 530613 or visit www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
MAD MAX: FURY ROAD In cinemas 15 May
Returning to director George Miller’s post-apocalyptic, gas-guzzling wasteland, Mad Max: Fury Road follows the road warrior as he teams up with a clan trying to cross the Australian desert. Max agrees to help the clan’s leader, Imperator Furiosa, and to protect them from the savages and raiders who want to kill them for their gasoline. Starring Charlize Theron and Tom Hardy (The Dark Knight Rises) as Max, Mad Max: Fury Road is the comeback for the iconic franchise, and promises all the car-nage that you’d expect from Max Rockatansky.
JUR ASSIC WORLD In cinemas from 12 June
The anticipated return to the universe created by Steven Spielberg, Jurassic World will finally take us to a fully-functioning dinosaur theme park, as originally envisioned by John Hammond. Isla Nublar is finally safe for tourists, but that all changes when the scientists, hoping to better understand dinosaur genetics and under pressure to bring in more money, create the first genetically-modified hybrid dinosaur. When it escapes, it’s up to park security guard Owen to get everyone out alive. Starring Chris Pratt (Guardians Of The Galaxy) and Bryce Dallas Howard (The Help), Jurassic World is the long-awaited return of the beloved franchise.
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PETS CORNER
It’s time to turn the spotlight on your best friends!
WALKIES!
Leading British dog lifestyle company HOUNDWORTHY has launched a luxury version of their best-selling range of stylish dog accessories. Featuring a super-soft glove leather lining and handstitched finishing, the Monogram two-tone luxury padded leather lead (shown with matching collar) is perfect for hounds about town. Choose from four colours and four sizes. Use special code KUDOSHOUNDS for free UK delivery for Kudos readers. Price: from £54 www.houndworthy.com
A typical day in the office at Maxim PR! Alice, a Havanese, which is the national dog of Cuba, lives in Tonbridge but works with her mum, Rachel Knight, in Tunbridge Wells
ROCK CANDY ROPE Who me? I’m just sitting on my bed – can’t think how this cushion got here and how the feathers just got everywhere!
I like to take up the whole sofa and completely spread myself out. I’m not shy either! P.S. This is my grumpy face!
Milou, a wire fox terrier, who lives in Wadhurst
George, a Bull Mastiff, who lives in Tunbridge Wells
Hit the hard road to the park this summer with Mungo & Maud’s Rock Candy Rope. Chill on the grass, whilst your dog whizzes around in twisted colours of Parrot or Flamingo. You’re both sure to be feeling those festival vibes… what a sweet idea. Prices from £54.50 for the collars and from £70 for the leads. www.mungoandmaud.com
Email a photograph and details of your pet to editorial@badbettymedia.co.uk
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THE FASHION PHENOMENON Karen Millen began making shirts with a £100 bank loan and went on to create one of the biggest fashion brands in the UK. She may not still be at the helm of her eponymous company, but she hasn’t been idle... Words: Rebecca Lloyd. Picture: Sipa Press / REX Shutterstock
“WE WORKED VERY HARD AND MANAGED WITHOUT ANY HUGE BORROWING FROM THE BANKS, SO WHEN THE EIGHTIES CRASH CAME IT DIDN’T AFFECT US. WE CONTINUED TO GROW WHEN OTHER STORES FOLDED”
When Tunbridge Wells FC faced Spennymoor Town in the final of the FA Vase at Wembley in 2013, amongst the mums and dads cheering on the teams was an unlikely figure – top fashion designer Karen Millen, who was rooting for her Tunbridge Wells midfielder son, Josh. She may have founded one of the UK’s most successful fashion companies, but Karen is also a mum of three and has spent countless hours on the touchline supporting her son over the years. Karen’s business began 35 years ago on holiday in Morocco, when she met Kevin Stanford, the man who would become both her romantic and business partner. It was, she says, ‘love at first sight’. Together, with a bank loan of £100, they started making smart tailored shirts, which they sold to friends via Tupperware-style parties at home. They slowly built up four shops over 10 years, and by 2004 there were 130 stores internationally and Karen Millen was a hugely successful fashion brand and a household name. It was all a long way from the modest council house on an estate in Maidstone where she was brought up with her two brothers and sister. Her father, a carpet fitter, died at the age of 55 after a long struggle with rheumatoid arthritis, an illness that made work difficult and life tough for the family. “Dad was ill for a very long time,” she says. “For much of my youth, he was always poorly and on constant medication. It seemed as if we were always visiting him in hospital. “Yet, as children we didn’t feel that we missed out on very much. Mum and Dad always saved enough for one holiday a year – usually in a caravan or at a holiday camp.” As a child, Karen loved making clothes and furniture for her dolls. She considered an apprenticeship as a painterdecorator, but a school visit to a college fashion show at the age of 16 fired her passion for design. She was 19 and fresh out of a City & Guilds fashion course at Kent’s Medway
KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2015
College of Design, while Kevin, then 20, was studying mechanical engineering at university when they met in Morocco. Their first shop opened in Maidstone in 1983, selling catwalk-type clothes designed by Karen, and their second was in Chapel Place in Tunbridge Wells. Soon, Karen Millen stores were opening all over the High Street, selling her trademark high-quality, beautifully-cut clothes with scrupulous attention to detail. Karen and Kevin controlled everything, from design to manufacture to sale. Karen says they had no great ambitions at the beginning, but the business kept growing. “It didn’t happen overnight,” she says. “We worked very hard and managed without any huge borrowing from the banks, so when the Eighties crash came it didn’t affect us. We continued to grow when other stores folded.” The fruits of their labours gave them a beautiful Georgian mansion in Wateringbury, near Maidstone, along with a London base and a house in Majorca, all of which they shared with their children: Josh, Jordan and Jake. Sadly, though, while their business empire flourished, Karen and Kevin drifted apart and the couple finally split up. However, they are still close and Kevin lives a few miles away, near Tunbridge Wells, with his wife and family. The couple sold the company in 2004 and Karen made £35m from the sale, saying that the business was growing so fast she felt she had lost her creativity and the time seemed right to sell. She went on to receive an OBE for services to fashion in 2008, and is now involved in two charities that she set up: Hope HIV, which gives fashion skills to young people affected by HIV, and Teens Unite, which aims to improve the lives of young adults who have life-limiting diseases. She set up Teens Unite with her friend Debbie Pezzani in 2007. Since then, the charity has grown to support over
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“I’M SLOWLY STARTING TO THINK ABOUT GOING BACK INTO THE BUSINESS ARENA IN SOME CAPACITY, BUT I DON’T THINK I COULD GO BACK TO THOSE LONG HOURS – WHEN I SOLD KAREN MILLEN, I WAS EXHAUSTED”
600 young people from across the UK from its Respite Home in Broxbourne. In an interview with The Guardian, she said: “My function in the charities is largely to fundraise, which involves meeting up and lunching with people, which I enjoy. I’m slowly starting to think about going back into the business arena in some capacity, but I don’t think I could go back to those long hours – when I sold Karen Millen, I was exhausted. I don’t want to commit to one thing, but I’ve got a lot of creative energy. “Charity work is very different from what I’ve done before in that it involves asking people for donations and that can be difficult in this economic climate. The pace is much slower, too, and that can be frustrating; it’s like planting a seed and then sitting back and watching it grow. It does, of course, have its rewards and is a very competitive field to work in. As a nation we are very good at giving to charity.” Despite her busy family life and her charities, Karen’s heart is still in fashion. She has hinted that she might just return to the industry – and it will be a lot richer for it. Picture: Jonathan Hordle/REX Shutterstock
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BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY With a little help from NEXT and a Morgan or two, our model Laura was definitely Queen for the day. The folk-inspired Bohemian look is once again the NEXT big trend for summer and available in all stores and on-line Photographer: Matt Harquail
CREDITS
All clothing from NEXT: www.next.co.uk Cars from Brands Hatch Morgans: www.morgan-cars.com Location: Reynolds Retreat, Borough Green, Sevenoaks Fashion Editor: Sally-Ann Carroll Assisted by Suzanne Sunnucks Photographer: Matt Harquail (mattharquail.co.uk) Hair and make-up: Lauren Saunders (www.lauren-saunders.com) Laura was our top supermodel for the day. If you are interested in being part of our fabulous fashion, please email a recent picture with relevant details to editorial@badbettymedia.co.uk
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HI, HO SILVER
Zig-zag stripe top, £20, navy patterned trousers, £28, stripe bikini top, £18, red suede sandals, £32, silver sunglasses, £12.50, and silver three-piece bangles, £12. Car: 2012 Silver Morgan three-wheeler with red stripe.
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BRANCHING OUT
Orange print bandeau maxi dress, £32, ecru fringe kaftan, £32, gold earrings, £10, gold bangle, £8, and gold and orange anklet, £6.
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DOUBLE ACT
Embroidered dress, £38, suede ankle boots, £70, fringed suede bag, £60, straw hat, £14, bracelets, £12 each, and pink retro sunglasses, £10. Cars: Ivory +8 with 4.8-litre engine 2012 and Red 2013 Morgan Roadster with 3.7-litre engine.
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STAG DO
Grey floral maxi dress, £26, mint green sweater, £28, suede boots, £65, pendant, £12, and bracelet, £14.
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ON THE CASE
Patterned maxi skirt, £28, black cropped vest, £8, tan sandals, £50, necklace, £12, black sunglasses, £15, pink watch, £24, and black straw hat, £12.50. Car: Metallic Green 2008 Roadster with 3-litre engine KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2015
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JUMP TO IT
Print jumpsuit, £34, neutral macramé waistcoat, £40, white sandals, £50, silver bangle, £10, and blue flower hair slide, £4. Car: White Aero 8.
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FRINGE BENEFITS
Knitted kaftan, £30, orange vest top, £4.50, necklace, £14, gold earrings, £10, and marble rings, £12.
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WHITE OUT
White blouse, £30, jeans, £28, white sandals, £50, pendant, £12, and silver bangle, £14.
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CHILL-OUT TIME
Emma Reynolds, Director of the Reynolds Group, talks about her luxury retreat near Sevenoaks, where we shot our fashion feature
Located just outside Sevenoaks in a beautifully-restored and extended Victorian property set in 16 acres of parkland with historic yew trees and a walled garden, Reynolds Retreat offers some of the most luxurious and highest-quality fitness, thermal spa and treatment facilities in the country. Reynolds is a family-run business with more than 20 years experience in health and fitness. The Reynolds Group also believes that commercial and social business should go hand in hand; they are not only committed to running a successful commercial venture, they are also committed to the local communities. This extends to Apprenticeship programmes, local team sponsorship, healthy school initiatives, workshops for children in danger of being excluded from school, and a production touring company, as well as numerous fund-raising events, performances and donations to charities totalling to date over £950,000. Here, Emma Reynolds, Director of the Reynolds Group, talks about the company and its diverse interests.
How did the company start?
I was a professional ballet dancer/choreographer, and eventually went into the commercial side of the industry, working with record companies. When I was 19, I decided to set up my own production company doing choreography and teaching and needed my own premises. I found a property to lease in Dartford, Kent, but it was bigger than I needed. I wasn’t allowed to just rent half of it so I redid my business
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plan and decided to have a gym in the other half of the building, which would also benefit my dance students. I literally had no money, so I went to a receiver’s and said I had £5,000 and needed a whole gym’s worth of equipment. After they stopped laughing they rang me about a week later and told me that a football company had gone down and if I could collect the equipment from Newcastle by the weekend, I could have it for £5,000. So I picked it up and stored it all in various friends’ garages until the gym was ready. And so the dance and fitness studio began. Over the years, the gym expanded into fitness day spas. From my beginnings in Dartford, I went on to launch the fitness spa in Rainham, then relocated the Dartford one to bigger premises in Bexley. Next came the fitness spa in Sittingbourne and at the start of this year we launched the Reynolds Retreat in Borough Green, Sevenoaks, where you shot your fashion feature.
How is Reynolds Retreat different to your spas?
The Retreat is more than a day spa. Set in 17 acres of beautiful countryside, we have a fantastic restaurant that is full of superfoods making it the most nutritious food you can eat. Essentially, all of them are spas but the Retreat has a nochlorine swimming pool. Instead, it contains silver and copper so it’s like swimming in natural spring water. There is no smell and if your hair is dyed there is no chance of it going green and the water won’t dry it out. It’s great if you have sensitive
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skin or wear contact lenses as there are no chemicals. It’s much kinder and nicer to swim in, and so natural we can even water our plants with it, so all the water is recycled! Eventually I’d like to have this at the three other spas as well.
How are your spas different to other spas?
We’re fitness spas so it’s much more about lifestyle, combining fantastic gyms with really good spas. And it’s not about killing yourself in the gym, either. It’s about overall health and wellness, too. Not being stressed is just as important as working out. Eating well is also really important, and our superfood restaurant does really good juices that balance the acid and alkaline in your body. So we offer a total experience, wellbeing balanced by the gym and the spa. And as it is all about balance, we serve Champagne, for example, but also cook wholesome food with no chemicals, to balance your health and your diet. We can also get results much faster, as we have both heat and ice treatments in the spa which aids muscle recovery. We also do inside and outside fitness, which you don’t often find in spas.
Tell us about the performing arts side of your business...
I have a production company and a Performing Arts College that is Grade 1 Ofsted and has also won a Beacon Award. It consists of four years full-time training and our former students are now working around the world, including the West End. We are also just about to open a new Performing Arts Centre in Romford, in addition to our existing Performing Arts College.
And what about your other training courses?
We now deliver beauty training, fitness, customer service, retail, horticulture and management consultancy. We also do a lot of training internationally, working with some very large companies, including the ISS and Barclays Bank, doing management consultancy.
What are your plans for the future?
We have plans to expand the training side of the business to Australia, India and Africa, as well as Europe. Then we will look at expanding the retreats. That’s the long-term plan!
www.reynoldsgroup.co.uk
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SAHAR A,
High Street, Tunbridge Wells
Nestled at the foot of the High Street and at the top of The Pantiles in the heart of Tunbridge Wells, you’ll find womenswear boutique, Sahara, a bright, airy shop bursting with beautiful clothes and unique accessories. The label’s history is a colourful one. Sahara is the brainchild of Royal College of Art graduate Suzy Coppersmith-Heaven, who created the label in reaction to the emerging mass-produced clothing market in the 80s, which Suzy felt seemed to lack the creativity and interesting textiles that she was finding while on her extensive travels around the world. Suzy began her fashion journey during the creative, bohemian years of the 1970s, after falling in love with the then remote and largely unheard of island of Bali. “It felt like my exclusive paradise in those days, as there were only a handful of early travellers who had discovered it,” says Suzy. To fund her travels between London and Bali, she would work on small, colourful clothing collections with established Italian and American designers, bringing them back in her suitcases to sell in London. The ranges soon took off, enough to allow Suzy to open her first shop in London’s trendiest street – Chiltern Street – where a Sahara shop still remains to this day. The Sahara label has grown significantly since its early years, and Tunbridge Wells was Sahara’s fifth stand-alone store in the UK. Still very at the heart of the design team, Suzy’s passion and love for unique and unusual textiles remains the inspiration and driving force behind each collection. She works with her design team in leafy London village Primrose Hill. From their design
Button Detail Linen Top, £75 Tribal Print Jersey Trousers, £129
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Organza Linen Pocket Dress, £149 Geometric Print Scarf, £45
Waffle Linen Top, £115 Printed Scarf, £45
Palm Jersey Jacket, £135
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Crinkle Linen Easy Top, £119
Xingu Cotton Scarf, £49 Organza Linen Tunic, £85 Cropped Linen Trouser, £85
Organza Linen Pocket Dress, £149
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Cotton Ikat Shirt, £115 Textured Linen Trousers, £99
Crinkle Linen Shirt Jacket, £149 Linen Camisole, £69 Textured Linen Trousers, £99
studio, the team source the most amazing cloths and yarns from mills around the world. They carefully consider each and every piece in the range to ensure it carries the unique ethos of the brand. Interestingly, the label has moved much of their production to the UK, where up to half their collections are now made. “It’s very important to me that as a business, we reduce our carbon footprint as much as possible, and it’s a great feeling to be able to support the British garment-making industry,” says Suzy. Amongst Sahara’s dedicated followers is style icon Dame Judi Dench, who wore a stunning black velvet Sahara dress on the red carpet at the Laurence Oliver awards last year. Unique about Sahara is that their clothes cleverly suit all frames, whether you’re small or extra large. Sahara’s creative, sculptural cuts ensure that their pieces fit and drape beautifully, whatever your dress size. Their summer collection is brand new in store. Effortlessly stylish, the store is abundant with vibrant colours in natural linens and textural jerseys, perfect for summer travels. They come in great shapes for spring, although they can be worn all year round. It’s clear that Sahara’s collections are designed with longevity in mind. While there are nods to current trends throughout the store, style definitely reigns at Sahara and their collections famously stand the test of time. Alongside their own collections, Sahara stocks some rare European designer ranges that you won’t find anywhere else in Tunbridge Wells, and their accessories are simply irresistible and amazingly affordable! Pop in next time you’re on the High Street and bring this article with you to enjoy 10% off any purchase over £100, valid until 30th May 2015. Sahara, 75-77 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1XZ. Tel: 01892 536 638. www.saharalondon.com
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VACANT CLOTHING,
The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells
Rosa dress, £36.99 www.vacantclothing.co.uk
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FASHION FORUM
STAMPEDE, www.stampedeshoes.co.uk
Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells
Converse Hollyhock, £26
Vans Authentic Flamingo, £27
Toddler outfit (tunic and leggings), £20.95
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Geox Karly Sandal, £47.50
Start-rite Moonflower £36
Boys Crocs Electro, £24.99
London Tee, £11.50
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FACE OF AN ANGEL We all love a facial, but celebrities take it to the max with everything from bee venom to 24-carat gold
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There’s nothing like a facial to bring back that radiance to your skin. But while most of us manage with perhaps a warm wax mask or aromatic oils, A-list celebrities take it one step (and more) further in their search for unblemished, wrinklefree skin. In order to maintain his youthful glow, One Direction heartthrob Harry Styles reportedly enjoys £325 sheep placenta facials at a Beverly Hills clinic. Hollywood dermatologist and ‘aesthetician’ Louise Deschamps told Grazia magazine that Harry pops in for the 90-minute treatment every six weeks. The unusual treatment involves mixing stem cells from the placenta into a gel containing flecks of gold. This is then spread on the face after it has been exfoliated, steamed and had the pores opened with an LED light. And Harry is only 21! Reality star Kim Kardashian shocked fans in 2013 with a Twitter photo of her face covered in blood after she had undergone a £600 vampire facial. This involves drawing blood from the patient’s arm, which is then spun in a machine to remove the platelets, which are believed to help stimulate collagen and elastin growth. The fluid is injected into the face using tiny acupuncture-style needles. The ever-youthful looking Tom Cruise is another facial advocate, but he prefers the nightingale poo treatment, which was recommended to him by a friend. It involves mixing excrement from a nightingale, from the Japanese island of Kyushu, with rice bran and water. It’s said to be an excellent exfoliant! Other celebrity treatments include the Caviar and Carat facial containing caviar, honey, sea buckthorn and gold to help combat the signs of aging and to brighten the skin.
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Then there’s the £4,200 diamond and ruby facial peel, which involves precious stones being rubbed over the skin. Gwynneth Paltrow is a fan of £3,200 Thermage, which boosts collagen in the lower layers of the skin. It’s achieved by using radio waves that trigger collagen production. Other fans include Amanda Holden. Our very own Duchess of Cambridge isn’t averse to a facial either. Before her wedding, she reportedly received a bee-venom facial that claims to be a needle-free shortcut to youthful, line-free skin. The treatment was recommended to Kate by her stepmother-in-law Camilla, who swears by the product. It promises to plump up skin by tricking it into thinking it’s been stung, which causes the body to direct blood towards the area, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. It’s also a big hit with A-listers including Victoria Beckham, Simon Cowell and Kylie Minogue. The venom used in the facial is extracted using a small metal plate, which is placed inside the hive. It carries a very small electrical charge that doesn’t harm the bee but makes it feel threatened so it releases venom. The plate is hard so the bee retains its sting and survives. The venom is then scraped off to be used in beauty products. Go one step further with the Gold Bee Venom facial, a favourite with Ellie Goulding, Lisa Snowdon, Nicole Kidman and Cameron Diaz. Costing £1,000, the treatment promises to smooth, freeze, lift, plump and brighten the complexion. It involves micro-demabrasion, bee venom and gold serum slathered on the face, then a quick blast of pure oxygen. The face is then covered in 24-carat gold leaf, and a mask made from gold hyaluronic acid and collagen. The skin is massaged and bathed in a special light to stimulate collagen production.
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HOLISTIC HEAVEN Dr Hauschka facials by Fionah Rowland of Fi Chi in Tunbridge Wells are two hours of complete and utter bliss
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I’ve been a fan of Dr Hauschka products for a few years now. I love their ethos, which is all about creating a sense of balance between your inner and outer beauty. The belief that our skin inherently knows what to do to look after and renew itself, means that less is more with Dr Hauschka. Their products don’t take over these tasks but support your skin to be in balance with its own natural processes. They are completely natural and smell utterly divine, containing medicinal plant extracts and the highest-quality natural ingredients. So imagine my delight when I find that Fionah Rowland of Fi Chi in Tunbridge Wells is a Dr Hauschka Esthetician! When she invited me to experience a Dr Hauschka Facial Lymphatic Treatment, I figured it would be rude to say no. To find Fi Chi, you first walk into the fabulous Noa Noa boutique. The range of Dr Hauschka products on show is the first sign that there is more to this shop than meets the eye. Head downstairs and you enter the treatment zone – a complete hidden sanctuary, with elegant décor and a calming and relaxing vibe. Add to this Fionah’s warm and friendly personality, and I knew that I was in for a treat! OK, so first the science bit… Dr Hauschka Rhythmic Treatments use a holistic approach to support the skin’s inherent ability to regulate and heal itself. Lymphatic stimulation, using fine brushes and gentle hand movements, stimulate the fluid processes in tissues, promoting regeneration and health. It is a restoring, harmonising experience, bringing relief and strength to all skin conditions, including acne and rosacea. And now for my experience… One word – heaven! First off, this treatment lasts for two hours. Yes, two whole hours! Imagine being pampered for that long. I never have and it was the most amazing experience. OK, I can’t remember exactly everything that went on because I literally went to another level, but it starts with a warm sage foot bath whilst I discussed my skin and skin-care routine with Fionah. Then it’s onto the couch for a foot and leg massage, followed by gentle stretching and relaxation movements to the neck, head and arms. My face and décolleté was cleansed with aromatic water, I had a facial steam bath, and a mask was applied to deep cleanse my skin. At various stages, Fionah also applied warm fragrant muslin compresses, which smelt absolutely divine. After all this, I have to admit that I was starting to nod off a little, and then Fionah began the rhythmical movements of the lymph stimulation and décolleté massage. How to describe it? Like gentle brush strokes on the face, so soothing, so relaxing, so calming. This was followed by a gentle massage
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of my décolleté. The lymph stimulation unblocks, purifies and strengthens your immune system. I literally went to a different place – away from my busy, hectic life. I am a person who is constantly on the go with a million things in my head and I literally let go of everything. It was the most exhilarating experience – the ultimate relaxation. I completely switched off, lost in the rhythmic movements. And the scents, oh the scents! That is one of the things I love about Dr Hauschka products. Lavender, lemon, pine… so many intoxicating scents that make you want to breathe deeper and deeper. If, like me, you lead a busy, stressful life, then this treatment would be a welcome experience, one that you should fit in once in a while to re-energise, refresh and recharge. I was in complete bliss, and my skin was positively glowing when I left. I’ve made a promise that I will treat myself to two hours of bliss every once in a while. In today’s busy world, I think we all deserve that. The facial treatment lasts for two hours and costs £95. Dr Hauschka skin care products and make-up are also available to buy in the shop. To book a treatment, call 01892 539819. For the full list of treatments, visit: www.fichi.co.uk
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ASK THE DOCTOR Your cosmetic surgery questions answered catching it early, whilst the hair follicles are still alive. There are two main treatment options which can be used to promote increased hair growth. Viviscal Professional is a supplement based on proteins found in the Inuit diet (Eskimos have amazing hair apparently!). It is only available from doctors or trichologists, and is recommended as a six-month course which strengthens hair from the root, thickens thin, wispy hair and decreases breakage. Another option is Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy. This involves taking a blood sample from your arm and spinning it in a centrifuge machine. A portion of this containing many platelets is then injected into any areas of hair loss, releasing growth factors and stimulating hair to regrow.
SOPHIE SHOTTER, MBCHB BSC (HONS) COSMETIC DOCTOR I’ve noticed my hair starting to look a bit thinner. Is there anything I can do to restore its thickness? Hair shedding is a much more widespread problem than many people realise, with over 50% of men and 74% of women reporting thinning hair. Pregnancy, over-styling, hormonal fluctuations, poor diet, stress and medications can all be to blame. The key to treating it successfully is
Can anything be done if the follicles are already dead? The supplements and injection treatments will only work on follicles that are still intact, and treating hair loss early is definitely the easiest option. If your hair loss is a little more advanced, then hair transplantation may be a good option for you. This involves surgically removing individual hair follicles from a donor site and transplanting them to the balding area. www.illuminateskinclinic.co.uk Send your questions to editorial@badbettymedia.co.uk
BEAUTY EXTR A Pick-and-mix products for great top-to-toe looks
LIP SERVICE
These luxurious and creamy ICONIC Liquid Lipsticks are unlike anything else on the market. They give full coverage, courtesy of the easy-to-use wand applicator, and advanced polymers and intense pigments mean the colours are out of this world. They also have long-lasting staying power, and are packed with a natural blend of essential extracts and resin to keep your lips soft and supple, whilst providing healing and emollient properties. Price: £13.50 www.iconiclondoninc.com
MILK Y, MILK Y
Make bath time the best time with this carton of luxurious Kellogg’s 50’s Vintage Bath Milk. Made from tuberose and jasmine scents, and containing nothing but the finest moisturising ingredients, this gorgeous bath milk will be sure to leave you feeling relaxed and your skin super-soft. Price: £6.95 www.prezzybox.com
SHINE ON
Add a bit of glam glitter with Confetti Party nail polish from Next. Price: £4 www.next.com
SWEET LIKE CHOCOLATE CHEEK Y!
Autograph Twist-Up Cheeks Highlighter is perfect for adding a soft, natural blush. This silky-smooth illuminating highlighter comes in an easy-to-apply stick in Pearl or Rose Shine. Price: £9.50 www.marksandspencer.com
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Hotel Chocolat isn’t all about chocolate, as their fragrant Bois Nef range proves. Combining top notes of Mandarin and Lemon, with a heart of Jasmine, Lily and Black Pepper and a base of Roasted Cocoa, Sandalwood and Leather, the result is reminiscent of the heady scent of their cocoa groves at dusk. This bath oil is rich in cocoa, coconut and olive oil, and leaves skin silky smooth and fragrant. Price: £25 www.hotelchocolat.com
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PERFECT GEMS Make that gift of jewellery extra special by choosing a birthstone
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Birthstones are gemstones associated with each month in the calendar. They are considered lucky, and their healing powers are allegedly heightened during their month. EMERALD – The birthstone for May “Sweet child of May, you’ll taste the caress Of Emerald’s promised Happiness” Emeralds are part of the beryl family of gemstones, found mainly in Brazil, Columbia, India, South Africa and Russia. They are most frequently shaped as an “emerald cut” that is oblong with cut corners. It is said that an emerald was on offer at the earliest-known gem market in Babylon about 4000 years BC. This emerald was dedicated to Venus, the goddess of love, because it was her favourite precious stone. Emeralds have long been associated with eyesight, and this could be why green is considered to be the most restful colour for eyes. Emperor Nero was believed to use a sliced emerald to lengthen his vision while watching gladiators in the arena! Their qualities are said to be love and success.
PEARL – The birthstone for June “Pearls should bring joy to the girls of June, For youthful Beauty is their special boon” Although pearls are organic, their structure is crystalline, being made from layers of calcium carbonate and conchiolin. These form the nacre secreted by oysters in response to an irritant such as sand. Cultured pearls come from oysters that are farmed and artificially stimulated to produce this nacre. For years their origin was unknown and it was romantically suggested that pearls were the tears of angels, shed for the sins of mankind and preserved in the depths of the seas. Pearls were considered to be emblems of nobility in Roman times and Julius Caesar banned women below a certain rank from wearing them. In the Koran, Muslims are told that the trees of Paradise are hung with pearls. The qualities associated with pearls are vitality, beauty and innocence. For a range of jewellery in your birthstone, visit Payne and Son in Tunbridge Wells. www.payneandsonjewellers.co.uk
HOW TO INCREASE YOUR ENERGY LEVELS
Get up and go with our tips on boosting energy levels and fighting fatigue
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Feeling tired? Lacking in energy? A few simple lifestyle changes could help to put the vitality back in your life. Even if you’re a morning person, you’re probably far from firing on all cylinders when you first open your eyes. It can take up to two hours to get the brain fully alert. One reason it takes time to come to is that your core body temperature has dipped during the night to keep you in deep, restorative sleep. There are various ways you can help yourself to get going. Exposure to light stimulates your brain to stop producing melatonin (the hormone that helps induce sleepiness). Light also gets your body out of sleep mode by resetting the part of the brain that controls the body’s 24-hour biological clock. The first physical activity of the day raises the body temperature and increases blood flow to your brain, so open the curtains and try some stretches in front of the window. The best time for a wake-up workout is in the morning, because it triggers feel-good endorphins and lowers stress hormones – and the effects can last for six to eight hours. Morning exercisers tend not to have midmorning slumps and are sharper mentally than if they hadn’t exercised. You’ll feel even more energised if you include both cardio and strength training in your workout. The brain responds to new experiences by releasing a rush of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, which make you more alert. You don’t have to do anything extreme – just take something ordinary and mix it up. For instance, if you’re righthanded, use your left hand to brush your teeth. Have a good look at your diet – it’s very important if you want more energy in your daily life.
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• Drink plenty of water – a dehydrated body functions less efficiently. • Be careful with caffeine – one or two caffeinated drinks (like coffee, tea or cola) per day boosts energy and mental alertness. However, heavy caffeine users (more than six drinks per day) are prone to anxiety, irritability and reduced performance. • Eat breakfast – food boosts your metabolism and gives the body energy to burn. The brain relies on glucose for fuel, so choose carbohydrate-rich breakfast foods such as cereals or wholegrain bread. • Don’t skip meals – going without food for too long allows blood sugar levels to dip. Try to eat regularly to maintain your energy levels throughout the day. • Eat a healthy diet – increase the amount of fruit, vegetables, wholegrain foods, low-fat dairy products and lean meats in your diet. Reduce the amount of high-fat, high-sugar and high-salt foods. • Don’t overeat – large meals can drain your energy. Instead of eating three big meals per day, try eating six mini-meals to spread your calorie intake more evenly. This will result in more constant blood sugar and insulin levels. You’ll also find it easier to lose excess body fat if you eat this way. • Eat iron rich foods – make sure your diet includes iron-rich foods such as lean red meat. A common cause of fatigue is not enough sleep, or poorquality sleep. Adults need between seven and eight hours sleep a night, but many of us don’t get it. Too much caffeine, particularly in the evening, can cause insomnia so avoid caffeinated drinks in the evening. A common cause of insomnia is fretting about problems while trying to get off to sleep. Experiment with different relaxation techniques until you find one or two that work for you – for example, you could think of a restful scene, focus on your breathing, or silently repeat a mantra or phrase. Try to avoid sleeping pills – they’re not a long-term solution because they don’t address the causes of insomnia. Studies suggest that between 50% and 80% of fatigue is mainly due to psychological factors. Constant anxiety drains the body of energy and can lead to burnout. Help deal with it by learning relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga, to help switch off the adrenaline and allow your body and mind to rest. Similarly, a hectic lifestyle is exhausting. Try to carve out a few more hours in your week to simply relax and do nothing. If you can’t find a few more hours, it may be time to rethink your priorities and commitments.
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TOP 10 ENERGY BOOSTERS Put a spring in your step with these foods that will give your body a boost – resist that coffee or sugary snack and be ready for anything!
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Kale, broccoli and spinach
Make like Popeye and eat your greens – they really are superfoods, and will give your body plenty of essential vitamins and minerals.
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Yogurt
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Fresh fruit
Eat a wide variety of fresh, colourful fruit, such as apples, berries, tomatoes and stone fruits. Strawberries are high in vitamin C, blueberries can help you focus, and bananas help to slow digestion and keep blood-sugar levels stable. The natural sugar in fruit provides a quick pick-me-up if you’re looking for an alternative to unhealthy afternoon snacks!
Yogurt of all sorts contain probiotics, which are well known for being a key part of healthy digestion. These probiotics can also help fight a weak immune system and boost your energy levels.
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Brown rice, whole-grain cereals, wheat and oats contain complex carbohydrates, fibre, B vitamins and iron, which all work to keep your energy levels up until your next meal.
Quinoa
Rich in complex carbohydrates and protein, quinoa is one of the most nutritious grains, and will keep you full and energised. Try mixing it into your favourite salad for a powerboosting lunch.
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Salmon
Salmon is high in essential omega-3 fatty acids that are needed for energy production, brain activity and circulation, as well as maintaining heart health.
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Dark chocolate
Chocolate is good for you! A square of dark chocolate, at least 70% cocoa solids, contains iron, magnesium and the natural stimulant theobromine, similar to caffeine, which can boost your energy and your mood.
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Whole grains
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Ginger tea
Swap coffee for ginger-infused tea – filled with antioxidants and nutrients that will give you a boost without stressing your body the way that an overload of caffeine can.
Trail mix
Nuts and dried fruit are the ideal combination of healthy fats, fibre and protein. Fibre helps slow down glucose release so there is always a steady supply of energy. Make your own mix with nuts such as walnuts, cashews, almonds, hazelnuts and peanuts, with pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds and dried fruit.
10 Bran flakes
Bran flakes are full of energy-producing B vitamins, iron and magnesium. The fibre will keep you fuller for longer and stabilise blood-sugar levels.
Don’t forget water
One of the things that will affect your energy levels the most is hydration. Keep topped up with water and always drink plenty throughout the day.
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AL-FRESCO EATING Make the most of the good weather with a picnic or lunch in the garden – food tastes so much better outdoors!
Tortilla
Perfect for picnics
Ingredients: 4 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, thinly sliced 350g new potatoes, sliced 4 rashers rindless smoked back bacon, chopped 6 large eggs 85g mature cheddar, grated
Method: 1. Heat the olive oil in a small non-stick frying pan, add the onion and potatoes, and fry for 8 minutes, turning frequently until tender, but not browned. 2. Add the bacon and fry for a further 2-3 minutes. Meanwhile, beat the eggs in a large bowl with plenty of salt and pepper. Stir in the cheese.
3. Remove the potato mixture with a slotted spoon and stir into the eggs. Reserve most of the excess oil, leaving a little in the pan. Pour in the egg mixture and leave to cook, undisturbed, over a gentle heat for 8 minutes until firmly set underneath but not set on top.
4. Remove the pan from the heat and carefully place a plate over the top. Turn the pan over so the tortilla is cookedside-up on the plate. Return the pan to the heat with some of the reserved oil.
All images for illustrative purposes only
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5. Put the tortilla back into the pan, uncooked side down, and cook for 5 minutes until set all through. Pack for a picnic or serve in wedges with salad and crusty bread.
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Smoked Salmon Tart
A deliciously indulgent treat If preferred, instead of making one large tart, you can make individual ones in a patty tin Ingredients: ½ x 375g pack shortcrust pastry 50g plain flour, plus extra for dusting 50g butter 300ml milk 3 large eggs, separated Grated zest of ½ lemon 1 tbsp chopped dill, plus a little extra 100g pack smoked salmon slices 150g goat’s cheese, diced
Method: 1. Heat oven to 2000C/1800C fan/gas mark 6. Roll out the pastry on a floured surface and line a 22cm tart tin, leaving the excess pastry overhanging the edge. Line with baking parchment and baking beans, and bake blind for 15 minutes. Remove the paper and bake for 10 minutes more.
2. W hile the pastry is cooking, put the butter, flour and milk in a pan. Heat, stirring all the time, until it’s a very thick, smooth sauce. Stir in the egg yolks, lemon zest, dill and seasoning.
3. Beat the egg whites in a clean bowl with an electric hand whisk until they hold their shape, then fold carefully into the sauce. All images for illustrative purposes only
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4. Tear the salmon slices into large pieces and arrange half over the base of the tart with half the goat’s cheese. Spoon over the sauce, then arrange the remaining salmon and cheese on top with the extra dill and black pepper. 5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until puffed up and golden. Trim the pastry edges.
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Thai Drumsticks
Chicken drumsticks get an oriental twist Ingredients: 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce Grated zest 1 orange, plus 2 tbsp juice 1 garlic clove, crushed 1 tbsp Thai red curry paste 8 chicken drumsticks
Method: 1. Heat oven to 2000C/1800C fan/gas mark 6 and line a baking tray with foil. Remove the skin from the drumsticks and slash each one a few times with a knife. 2. Mix the chilli sauce with the orange zest and juice, garlic, curry paste and Âź tsp salt. Add the chicken and coat well.
3. Put the drumsticks on the foil, spaced apart. Coat with any leftover marinade, then roast for 35-40 minutes until tender.
All images for illustrative purposes only
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Honey & Lime Prawns
Succulent, sweet and spicy
Ingredients: 500g raw peeled prawns, defrosted if frozen, rinsed and drained Juice of 1 lime 1 tbsp clear honey 1 tbsp soy sauce 150g mixed salad leaves 200g Cos lettuce, torn into pieces 2 tbsp clear honey 2 tbsp olive oil 1 lime, grated rind and juice 1 red chilli, deseeded, finely chopped 1 clove garlic, finely chopped 2 tbsp fresh chopped coriander Salt and pepper
Method: 1. To make the marinade, mix the honey, oil, grated lime rind and juice, chilli and garlic together in a small bowl. Add the coriander, salt and pepper, and mix together, then add the prawns and toss together. Cover with clingfilm and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. 2. Remove the prawns from the marinade and thread on to skewers. Cook under a preheated grill for five to seven minutes, turning the prawns once or twice and brushing with the marinade until they are cooked through.
All images for illustrative purposes only
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3. Mix the remaining lime juice, honey and soy sauce together in a bowl, add the salad leaves and lettuce, and toss together.
4. Divide between four plates. Slide the prawns off their skewers on to the salad and serve immediately.
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COOK LOCAL
Fresh local ingredients in season, and the kitchen to cook them in!
New season lamb rump with white bean purée, asparagus, broad beans, tarragon rösti and tomato jus A delicious recipe from the Nevill Crest & Gun
Ingredients: 4 x 7oz Lamb rump (buy the best that you can, ideally organic) For the rösti: 1 kilo potatoes Bunch of tarragon, chopped Seasoning For the white bean purée: 1 onion, diced 2 garlic cloves 250g haricot beans (soaked over night)
½l vegetable stock 100ml milk
For the lamb jus: 1 garlic clove 1 onion, diced 1 carrot, diced 2 celery sticks, diced Large sprig of rosemary 600ml lamb stock 4 fresh tomatoes, chopped 2 tbsp tomato purée
Vegetable garnish: 4 asparagus spears, chargrilled and cut into three at an angle 16 baby carrots 8 pieces of purple spouting broccoli 120g de-shelled broad beans Sauce garnish: 120g small cubes of tomato Small pinch of chopped rosemary
Method: 1. For the lamb jus, place the vegetables and rosemary in a pan with a little butter and sweat till soft on a moderate heat. Add the chopped garlic, tomato and tomato purée and cook down for a further two minutes, then add lamb stock and bring to the boil. Once boiled, turn down the heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until desired consistency. Strain and place to one side. 2. For the rösti potato, grate the potato and season with cracked black pepper, sea salt and tarragon. Leave for 25 minutes then squeeze through a tea towel to rid any excess moisture. Divide between four rings and press down. Heat a frying pan with a little olive oil and when hot, place the rösti in the pan and fry till golden on both sides and cooked through. Remove from the oil and place on a few pieces of kitchen roll to drain any excess oil, then place on tray ready to reheat later. 3. For the white bean purée, place chopped onions, garlic and beans in a pan, cover with vegetable stock and simmer till the beans are cooked and soft. Add milk, then take off the heat. Using a slotted spoon, transfer solid contents to a blender, add a bit of stock and blend till smooth and your desired consistency. 4. Heat oven to 2000C/1800C fan/gas mark 6. Pan fry the lamb in hot oil and place in oven till pink. Remove from the oven when cooked and rest for 5 minutes. 5. For the vegetable accompaniment, blanch them in boiling salted water until cooked al dente, place in a bowl of ice cold water, drain, then put to one side until needed. 6. To serve, reheat the röstis in the oven, simmer the jus and add the rosemary and tomato, check the seasoning. 7. Heat the vegetables in salted buttered simmering water for two minutes and then drain. Enjoy!
www.brunningandprice.co.uk/nevillcrestandgun/
KITCHEN TALK
Cook up a storm in this stunning kitchen
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Budding chefs can cook and entertain all at the same time in this contemporary walnut and painted kitchen by Rencraft, which is packed full of bespoke features. The cupboards have stowaway doors to keep a toaster, coffee machine and crockery neatly tucked away, while the raised breakfast bar on the island provides a place for guests to relax ahead of dinner. The island also has a builtin trough sink which can be used as a handy ice bucket to keep bottles of wine chilled. What more could a host want? www.rencraft.co.uk
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FOOD, BEER AND THE BEAN
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Charles Spencer of The Poet at Matfield, Alex Greig of Fuggles Beer Café and Joe Lloyd of Perk & Pearl, both in Tunbridge Wells, share their expertise in food, beer and coffee
Anybody fancy a birch water and curly kale smoothie? Thought not. All of the 2015 “food trends” that I have read about involve health-conscious grains like millet, quinoa or freekeh (a cereal food made from roasted green wheat). But what about last year’s trends of low air miles, locality and sustainability? Whatever the trends, I am a firm believer in flavour first. What’s the point of something being healthy, if it doesn’t taste good? There is so much more that we can do with the simple, basic ingredients that we all use and love – we just need to inject a little TLC and re-educate ourselves. A fantastic example of this is the ubiquitous chicken that we often cook for our Sunday roast. At the restaurant, we have gained a reputation for a great roast chicken oozing with flavour. The birds we use have a truly fantastic story and, dare I say it, their provenance is second to none. We buy them direct from Monkshill Farm, in Waterham, Kent, which is run by a trust for the Royal School for the Deaf. Their chickens are reared in an incredibly ethical manner, worthy of a place in my 2015 food trends! However, we choose them first and foremost for their taste, and I can’t help but feel that this flavour comes from the care and attention that they have been given. Over the years, more and more chickens have been imported, over-brined (for the wrong reasons) and are bland. Couple that with over-cooking and under-seasoning, and you can see why
chicken is often referred to as “tasteless and boring”. Imported chicken is heavily brined because water is cheaper than chicken and the meat is sold by the kilo. In the restaurant, we brine our chickens in a simple solution of salt, sugar, water and aromatics for 24 hours to intensify flavour and texture, then allow them to dry for 24 hours, ready for roasting. We hang the birds in the oven and cook them at 700C until the core reaches 600C. The chickens are then removed and the oven is turned up to 3000C. They are cooked for a further 10-12 minutes to crisp the skin, then rested for 15 minutes in a warm place. We serve them with wild garlic and sourdough bread sauce. Delicious! www.thepoetatmatfield.co.uk
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I think one of the reasons I never get bored with this whole beer thing is that there’s always something new – a new style or beer to try, to enjoy, to fall in love with. A couple of years back I had my dark beer ‘epiphany’ and fell for a hoppy brown ale from Kernel – it opened my eyes to a whole new world of beers that I’d previously not given much time to. Then, more recently, it was sours. Now, this can be a bit of a curve ball for many – sour beer? Beer isn’t meant to be sour, is it? Well, no, not unintentionally. However, when working with wild yeast or a strain that is meant to impart sourness, such as Brettanomyces, it’s very intentional. The two dominant styles in this sour world are Berliner Weisse (a German style native to Berlin with a clean, sour taste) and my personal favourite, Lambic (a Belgian style with an array of flavours ranging from tropical and fruity notes to ‘barnyard funk’). Quite often these beers are blended, or aged, with fruit. The finest examples tend to be aged in barrels for years, allowing the beer to really develop deeper and more interesting flavours, whilst also rounding out and becoming more balanced. Many compare the style to that of cider, as well. In the UK, brewers are using these wild yeasts to create some really complex and interesting beers. I’ve just had one
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called Tom Yum Gose, which literally tastes like the soup. The creativity is mind-boggling! It’s a style of beer that people tend to love or hate; they’re the Marmite of the beer world in that sense. Their complexity can be astonishing and they work wonderfully with food. A straightup Geuze, for example, (a blend of young and old lambic) with it’s fruitiness and dry, tart freshness is great at matching the acidity of goat’s cheese or spicy, oriental food, whilst a Kriek (a cherry lambic) is lovely with pâté, duck or dark chocolate. In either case, with summer just around the corner, the refreshing, dry tartness of these beers is the perfect accompaniment to the sun lounger. www.fugglesbeercafe.co.uk
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You are probably aware that Brazil produces some great coffee and it is certainly one of my favourites, but did you know that it produces around half of the world’s Arabica coffee? This is obviously Brazil’s largest income but dark clouds are gathering over their precious commodity, or more to the point – there is a serious lack of dark clouds over their coffee plantations. Brazil is suffering from the worst drought since the 1930s, and this is potentially rather bad news for our celebrated caffeinebased drink. To add to these pending issues, global consumption is on the rise and it is predicted that in the next five years it will have risen by a staggering 25%. If that was not bad enough, Brazil’s own consumption of coffee has risen to the point where it now consumes more than America. Last year, things were looking positive for Brazil’s coffee industry, but it just shows you how quickly things can change. So what does this mean for you? Well of course supply and demand means an increase in cost to the buyer, and naturally the assumption is that this cost will be passed on to the consumer. Starbucks have already increased their prices, as have other coffee chains. We have no intention of price increases this year on our coffee. Buying specialist single origins in small quantities keeps the costs to us fairly stable during this turbulent time, and I believe this gives smaller businesses like us the advantage over the big
boys. Buying in such huge quantities, as the chain coffee shops do, means their business is incredibly sensitive to any price changes. Great when the crops are good, not so great during a drought! Hopefully, weather conditions will change in Brazil soon but with an ever-increasing demand in Arabica coffee, I am sure the coffee giants will be keeping a very close eye on things. There are only two ways they can deal with this issue – increasing their prices or lowering their quality. So if you buy small-batch roasted coffee, you know you will get quality and consistent, fair price. To see our full range of single origin coffees, then please visit our website: www.perkandpearl.co.uk
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LET’S EAT
A round-up of the latest foodie news
SPREAD A LITTLE SUNSHINE
Delicious Alassala Amlou Paste is made from toasted almonds and organic Argan oil. It’s traditionally used by Moroccan Berber tribes for pastry making, and was consumed by the Nomads who crossed the desert. It was traditionally kept in the bedroom of those who could afford it as it was considered an aphrodisiac, and has been a typical wedding gift. Spread it on bread or toast, or use it in sauces to give a delightful, nutty flavour. Price: £13.99 www.alassalaolives.com
PUT YOUR NAME ON IT
Personalise your steaks with this brilliant steak branding iron. It comes with a full set of letters that can be slotted into a frame to personalise your steaks. Heat the branding iron up in the barbecue, press onto the steak, and the message will be seared into the meat. A great boy’s toy. Price: £30 www.notonthehighstreet.com
DRINK ME
This pretty La Petite Rose stainlesssteel lunch flask has a push-top lid for easy pouring, and a combined lid and cup, and holds 350ml. Price: £12.95 www.dotcomgiftshop.com
HOT STUFF TEA TIME
Welcome to the adventurous blends of William Whistle! This loose leaf orange & lemon herbal tea, which is hand-blended in England, is presented in a gorgeous box with a tale to tell! Price: £4.95 www.oakroomshop.co.uk
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Sticky, sweet and oh so spicy, this hot, sweet relish contains yellow pepper and Columbian habanero chillies. It adds a tasty spark to just about anything and brings out the best in all kinds of cheeses, whether in sandwiches or on a cheese board. Or try adding a spoonful to your stir-fries, dressings, dips and sauces. It’s free from artificial colourings, flavourings or preservatives. Price: £3.75 for a 220g jar www.oakroomshop.co.uk
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THE BEAUTY OF WOOD When Mountshill Woodcraft & Design was asked to create an island unit for a barn conversion, they chose Olive Ash with stunning results
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Woods like European ash have long been a popular choice for furniture and kitchens worktops and cabinets. European Ash is traditionally used for tool handles, oars, snooker cues, baseball bats, hockey sticks and tennis rackets. The timber is easy to turn and is also is very bendable so it has been exploited as a material for use in furniture manufacture for years. It is certainly one of the most popular timbers for this use. It’s a beautiful creamy-white wood, and there is usually no differentiation between the sap and the heartwood, so furniture is evenly coloured. However when dark brown or black streaks are found within the grain, the term used for the timber is Olive Ash, and this is currently a popular choice for the creation of veneer as it creates a very pretty, eye-catching finished product. There is a diverse effect with a linear pattern in two different colours within the same timber. The manufacturing process takes a little longer because the pattern has to be matched closely, but the end result is stunning! Mountshill have long used European Ash and Olive Ash from sustainably-managed forests for their hand-made
kitchens and furniture. So when they received a brief to create a kitchen island unit with the wow factor in a new barn conversion in Sevenoaks, they knew exactly what to do. The Olive Ash veneer they found had large areas of pale wood, which made the overall effect even more unusual. They added stainless-steel plinths to coordinate with the stainless-steel appliances used in the rest of the kitchen, and kept the other cabinets muted, using dyed veneer for these. The finished result is spectacular, the island unit standing out against the grey of the other cabinets, and the overall use of white Corian as worktops bringing the whole kitchen together. www.mountshill.com
HOME, SWEET HOME Ideas to turn your house into a home
BASKET CASE
These lovely baskets come in a range of shapes, sizes and styles, made from either rattan or willow, and some also come with a zinc removeable liner for added versatility. From storage boxes and trays, to umbrella stands and laundry bins, they are wonderfully elegant and extremely practical. Prices from £21 www.neptunetonbridge.com
CLOSE ENCOUNTERS
These beautiful CraftWood shutters offer great value for money together with practicality, stunning looks and finish. Made from a very high-quality coated MDF, with one of the best finishes in the world, and available in five popular colours. Price: £310 per square metre, this includes VAT, survey, delivery and installation. This image features 89mm louvres fitted to bifolds, with hidden, silent tilt rods and matching midrail. www.justshutters.co.uk
TOP DR AWER
A dramatic, refined and elegant English-style chest of drawers in vibrant snow. This chest is part of Neptune’s Aldwych collection that aims to bring strong contrast to your interiors. Its soft paint finish and delicate styling mean it can be used in almost any room around the house. Want a different colour? Neptune offers an additional hand-painting service at £85, enabling you to choose from a large range of alternative colours. Price: £595 www.neptunetonbridge.com
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HAVE A HEART
Bring some love into your home with this heart embroidered cushion, £12, heart towels, £10-£18, and bath mat, £14. www.next.co.uk
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HIT THE DECK A luxury look and exceptional value are just two of the benefits of the latest eco-friendly decking boards by Round Wood of Mayfield
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Homeowners with a conscience frequently struggle with a common dilemma when it comes to purchasing materials to improve their property. Whilst they are keen to make environmentally-friendly decisions, doing so often means sacrificing aesthetics and digging a bit deeper. Green issues particularly come into focus around timber products, such as decking boards. Trees are not always harvested responsibly or machined efficiently; the subsequent impacts on global warming and natural habitats are well documented. Thankfully, increased education has seen consumer tastes adapt. The supply chain is responding and eco-friendly options are being made available. In the decking market these have typically taken the form of composite boards – featuring recycled materials – or those that are FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) accredited. The former have an unmistakably plastic feel, the latter an often astronomical price tag. A recent innovation being offered by East Sussex-based company Round Wood of Mayfield not only avoids both drawbacks, but also offers improvements on traditional timbers. The ‘Heveatech’ boards they exclusively supply are engineered from a hardwood that has reached the end of its commercial life, using techniques that make the best use of felled timbers, whilst retaining their sought-after natural appearance. Heveatech is cut from the Hevea Brasiliensis, better known as the Rubber Tree. This species has a typical rubber or latex-producing lifespan of 25-30 years, after which they have historically been felled and used for firewood, or even discarded. Instead, this timber is now cut into small layers, which are bonded together under extreme compression and finished with a solid veneer. The result is an engineered, yet natural, decking board with a uniform moisture content. The stability this provides is highly sought after, as even the toughest, standard decking boards can be subject to movement. It also means that Heveatech is ideal for use with hidden fastenings, such as the Archideck and Sharkstooth systems that Round Wood supply. Both allow your deck to be displayed to its full potential by cutting out the need for unsightly face screws. Unsurprisingly, Round Wood has reported significant interest in Heveatech, which is supplied with a 15-year warranty. Fitters have reported that the boards make for an enjoyable project as they are supplied in generous lengths and always
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cut clean, unlike inferior laminates and composites. Homeowners have also been impressed, particularly by the final look and budget. Efficient manufacturing techniques that minimise waste allows for Heveatech to be offered at exceptional value, despite its high-end characteristics. Heveatech decking is available in a Smooth/Danish profile. It is supplied from an FSC accredited source. Boards have a warm, light-teak finish and are available in lengths of 3m, 4m and 4.9m. In addition to hardwood decking, Round Wood of Mayfield supply oak-framed buildings, oak and walnut flooring, and home and garden features. For more information please visit www.roundwood.com or contact Round Woof of Mayfield on 01435 867 072.
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ART IN THE GARDEN Exclusive garden sculpture exhibition at Chilstone Local stone specialists Chilstone of Tunbridge Wells are to curate an exclusive exhibition of garden sculpture in association with South East Open Studios (SEOS). The exhibition will coincide with the annual SEOS event and will exhibit 70 works from local, national and international artists, including several works by the celebrated Guruve sculptors from Zimbabwe, who create amazing works from African Springstone. The exhibition will last throughout June and there will be special events on each weekend, including live demonstrations on the first three Saturdays in June. A Family Day will take place on 13th June, which will include a children’s sculpture trail, bouncy castle, a chance to visit their live reptile studio, have a go at stone engraving, and use of a range of giant outdoor games. There will also be refreshments and tours of the workshop. Entry is free and all proceeds from the day will go to 3H Holidays Charity. In addition, there will be a business networking event organised by JV Networking, and a special Chilstone builders and architects business breakfast, all held in the unique marquee on the Chilstone site featuring a fine working fountain. Cripps legal service are also hosting an afternoon tea for some of their clients in a marquee set up in the
beautiful show gardens. Every Saturday, there will be a working demonstration of how Chilstone make their handmade stone ornaments, which are all created in Kent by Chilstone’s own craftsmen. There is ample parking on site and entry to the exhibition is free. The Chilstone show gardens feature two lakes and a woodland walk, and visitors are welcome to wander around and enjoy the unique woodland habitat. Dogs on a lead are welcome, too, and visitors can picnic by the lake. Chilstone is based on the B2188 near Langton Green. You can get directions and further information on the Chilstone website, and keep up to date by following them on Twitter or Facebook. www.chilstone.com Twitter & FB: ChilstoneCo Image of Bronze Hippos in the Chilstone show gardens by David Bartholemew
POND LIFE
If there’s one feature in the garden guaranteed to attract wildlife, it’s a pond. It can also transform a garden, adding colour, light and movement
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Ponds are a lovely addition to any garden and can provide a rich habitat for a range of wildlife. However, without regular maintenance, ponds can soon silt up and become an eyesore with overgrown plants, weeds and water that is unhealthy for fish and other wildlife. Small ponds need a complete overhaul to remove debris every five years, while large ponds need thorough cleaning every 10 years. The best time to clean ponds is in late autumn when many creatures are less active.
Pond cleaning
Start by preparing a holding tank in a shady spot for fish and deep-water plants; use some pond water in the tank, unless it is particularly cloudy. Marginal (water’s edge) plants will survive out of the pond as long as they are kept moist and shaded. The easiest way to drain the pond is to use a pump, which can be rented for the day from a hire shop. As the water level falls, remove fish as they become visible. Remove plants as the water level drops, placing them in the holding tank. Take the opportunity to re-pot or divide plants if necessary. If you find any, put larger pond creatures into the holding tanks too. Place decaying plant material on the side of the pond, so any smaller creatures hidden away can return to the pond. Scoop up the silt from the base. You can use this on your border, but retain a little to add back to the pond as it will help re-establish tiny organisms. Clean the liner with a scrubbing brush and water, bailing the dirty water out with a bucket. Return the saved silt and any saved pond water. Next, refill with water (rain water if possible), positioning pond plants as you go. Finish by returning the fish and any other creatures. After cleaning out the pond, it can take several months or years to return to a balanced ecosystem.
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Summer pond care
Water evaporates during windy or hot weather, leading to the water level dropping. The reduced surface area can be damaging for fish, as there’s less oxygen available, so top up the pond if necessary. Ideally use rainwater from a butt as tap water is rich in nutrients that causes algae to prosper. If you do have to use tap water and you keep fish, add the tap water gradually in small amounts to prevent the cold liquid shocking the fish in the pond. On hot, humid nights, spray water over the surface of the pool from a hose to break the surface and improve oxygen levels in the water. Alternatively, install or turn on a water feature to keep the surface bubbling gently. Floating weeds can quickly cover the surface of a pond if left unchecked, so twirl these out with a stick or use a net to scoop them out. Leave weeds and algae on the side of the pond overnight, so that larger creatures can return to the water. Rinsing the material in a bucket of pond water can help release smaller creatures, which can then be returned to the pond.
Winter pond care
If the pond is stocked with fish and it does freeze over, melt the ice by placing a hot pan on the surface, or install a pond heater or water feature to prevent freezing occurring. Floating a ball on the water in cold weather can also delay freezing. Never smash the ice, as the shock waves can harm fish. Improving the oxygen levels in the water by circulating it with a pump benefits both amphibians and fish, particular in deeper ponds where oxygen does not diffuse readily through the water. However, making a hole in the ice is not essential for ponds not stocked with fish. Ensure plenty of light gets to the pond by pruning back overhanging branches and brushing off snow. This will allow submerged plants and algae to continue to photosynthesize and replenish oxygen levels in the water. Consider adding more oxygenating plants in the spring if there aren’t many.
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Pond plant care through the seasons
Mid-spring through to early summer is the best time to buy pond plants as the water is warming up and plants will respond by growing very rapidly. Aim to keep around 50 per cent of the surface free of vegetation by thinning out plants occasionally during the summer. Deep-water aquatics with floating leaves, such as water lilies, benefit from regular dividing and re-potting, carried out in spring. Place containers on raised bricks lowered in stages as the plants grow, so the leaves can always reach the surface until the final depth is reached when the plant is mature. If not being potted on, water lilies benefit from a supplementary feed in the spring with a specialist aquatic plant food to encourage better flowering. Snip off any tatty leaves, along with any fading flowers in summer. Remove dead leaves and debris from plants early in the autumn to avoid decomposing vegetation building up in the pond. Thin out excessive growth of underwater oxygenating plants. Four to five bunches (each containing three to four stems) should be sufficient for each square metre or yard of pond surface area. In late spring, pond algae and weed growth can be rife. There are various ways of controlling and preventing these problems. If you have a large pond with a serious weed or algae problem, then you may choose to contact a contractor or specialist centre for advice.
Plants for your pond
Plants give visual interest to a pond, encourage wildlife and can help keep water clear. Choosing the right plants greatly adds to your enjoyment of the pond as well as that of visiting or resident wildlife. Choose plants that give contrasts in foliage as well as variation in flowering times to give as long a display as possible. Submerged plants produce oxygen during the day and provide cover for aquatic life. Floating plants do not need anchorage in soil. Their presence on the surface reduces the amount of sunlight penetrating the water and keeps the water cooler, discouraging algae. Aim to keep around 50% of the surface clear of vegetation, if necessary by thinning occasionally during the summer. Marginal plants are ornamental in flower and foliage and soften the harsh outlines of pools. They are also valuable for shading pool margins where algae may otherwise multiply in the warm, shallow water. For small pools, plant separately in 15cm (6in) containers and re-pot when overcrowded. Heights given indicate length of leaves or flowers above the water surface.
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HOW TO CREATE YOUR VERY OWN CUTTINGS GARDEN Tim Sykes of Tunbridge Wells-based Gardenproud, shares with us some inspiration for our summer gardens
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Imagine a year-round supply of your favourite blooms to display in your home, without the cost of buying a bouquet every week? Well, you could be creating your own supply of fresh flowers if you dedicate an area of your garden to an experiment this year. I was inspired to research into cuttings gardens last summer, having visited Les Jardins du Manoir d’Erignac in the Dordogne. In the kitchen area of the garden, a large bed had been dedicated to a rotational plan of flowering. It was chock-a-block full of blooms of varying varieties, creating a kaleidoscope of colours and choice for the avid flower arranger. The area Erignac had set aside was quite large, probably 12 x 6m, but you don’t need such a huge space. Just 3 x 4m would be more than sufficient. A conversation with one of my gardening colleagues revealed an approach. Jenny, who has worked with us for over two years, has recently created her own cuttings garden. She has been in the horticultural business for over 10 years and specialises in traditional, seasonal outdoor crops such as Sweet Peas, Cornflowers, and Ammi. For the past two years, she has grown almost everything from seed, producing crops from June through to October. An enthusiastic Jenny says: “It’s great that there is such a buzz around British-grown blooms at the moment, so come on, leap on the bandwagon and start your very own flower patch!” So what could you be planting in your cuttings garden?
Erignac Our diagram will give you some ideas. Jenny’s plan is based on an area of around 4.5m x 3.5m. It features four raised beds (2m x 1.5m each), with shingle pathways between them. If you like vegetables and herbs, by adding two further beds of similar sizes, you could have a complete kitchen garden. Her planting list includes: In Bed 1 - Mostly shrubs and perennials, including Sarcocca confuse, Convallaria majalis, Papaver orientalis and Gladiolus nanus Bed 2 - Mostly hardy annuals, including Ammi majus, Calendula officinalis, Consolida ajacis and Briza maxima Bed 3 - Mostly biennials, including Digitalis, Eryngium giganteum and Dianthus barbatus Bed 4 - Mostly half-hardy annuals, including Didiscus, Nicotiana, Sunflower/Rudbeckia and Sweat Peas It is best to create your cuttings garden in an area that is in full sunlight. You may need to incorporate a leaky pipe system, or be prepared to embark on a regular watering regime. Most flowers are best picked when they are just starting to show colour. There are exceptions, such as roses and dahlias, which may not fully develop if picked too early. For best results, collect cut flowers in the morning when their stems are full of water. Avoid picking flowers during warm and sunny conditions as they will be water stressed. Place the stems into a bucket of water as soon as possible after cutting. Good luck creating your cuttings garden, and enjoy the summer sunshine. For further help or information about designing or creating your own cuttings, herb or vegetable garden, contact Tim Sykes on 07725 173820, or see Gardenproud at www.reallygardenproud.com
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AS EASY AS RIDING A BIKE Cycling is a great way to keep you and the rest of the family fit and healthy
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Remember what fun you had on your bike growing up? Rediscover that fun and it will bring short and long-term benefits to your health, the environment and your purse. Cycling can be enjoyed by most people whatever their age. All you need is a roadworthy bike and some basic safety gear, and then all it just takes is a little bit of practice! Buying a bike needn’t be as costly as you might think. There are all sorts of bikes available and the choice can seem overwhelming, but a general rule is to choose a bike that suits the places you will be cycling in. Buying a really cheap bike can be a false economy. Investing in a good bike means that it will last, and if it’s for a child, it can be passed on to brothers and sisters once they’ve outgrown it. Second-hand bikes are another good option. You can look up adverts in the local paper or shops, or try an online auction site. As long as you know how to check a bike thoroughly before buying, you could end up with a real bargain! Remember, taking good care of a bike will keep maintenance costs down to a minimum. Things to look out for are keeping the chain oiled, tyres pumped, and regularly checking the brakes. Half the fun of a bike trip is deciding where to go. The internet is great for planning trips, and there are plenty of useful sites where families can find out about nearby cycle routes that suit their level of ability. Local cycle groups are a great place to meet fellow cyclists and make new friends. There may also be bike clubs in your area that your children can join and explore
in the safety of a larger group. When it comes to getting on our bikes as a family, having fun is key. Start slowly and keep the first few trips short or take regular breaks, because one mile can seem like five to tired little legs! The British Cycling Federation (www.britishcycling.org. uk) is campaigning to make Britain a more cycle-friendly nation, with better infrastructure and safer, more liveable streets. To that end, they have a number of initiatives designed to get more people on two wheels. If you’re just starting out, Sky Ride is the perfect place for you to dip your toe in the water. With friendly, local rides led by experienced ride leaders, and big city rides to inspire your whole family, Sky Ride aims to help you discover your world on two wheels. Ride Social is their social network for cyclists, the perfect next step after Sky Ride Local. Ride Social allows you to meet like-minded cyclists in your area and organise your own rides, an ideal way to motivate you and take your cycling to the next level. On the other hand, if you prefer to blaze your own trail and discover new places to ride, British Cycling mapping allows members to save and share their favourite routes. British Cycling’s award-winning Breeze programme is a big part of their ambition to get one million more women cycling by 2020, with fun, friendly, informal rides led by women, for women. Their Go-Ride programme is the best way for young people to get into cycling, with a big network of child-friendly clubs and a growing calendar of fun, accessible Go-Ride Racing events.
SAFE RIDING
Staying safe on your bike is not as tricky as it might seem. Follow these simple rules to help you and your children stay protected and be prepared
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1. Make sure the bike fits. Your child must both be and feel fully in control of their bike. They should be able to put both feet on the floor when they’re first starting to learn. 2. Helmets are a must. Make sure you choose one that fits flush against your child’s head on all sides so as to not move more than an inch in any direction when you push or pull on it. Long-sleeve tops and trousers offer added protection, as do elbow and knee pads. 3. Be seen to be safe. Ensure maximum visibility on the road with light-coloured clothing. Fluorescent clothing is even KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2015
better, especially in dim light and definitely at night. 4. When riding at night, a working white front light and red back light, plus a red rear reflector are required – it’s the law! 5. To help prepare your children, encourage them to take part in Bikeability. Bikeability is the new name for the Cycling Proficiency test and gives kids the skills and confidence they need to ride on roads.
Visit the Bikeability website at www.bikeability.org.uk for more information and cycle safety courses.
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ON YOUR BIKE
Saddle up with our selection of bikes for all ages
KIDS DAWES BLOWFISH 16’’
Updated with new, deep-sea graphics, the 2015 Blowfish continues to look the part! A lot of time has been invested in making sure the bike is right. The aluminium frame on the Blowfish is most important. The lightweight frame is easier to manoeuvre than a heavier steel equivalent. Price: £159.99 www.velocipedecycles.co.uk
GENTS KONA FIRE MOUNTAIN 2015 The Fire Mountain, with new 27.5” wheels, is the ultimate balance between cost and performance. Price: £549.99 www.velocipedecycles.co.uk
LADIES SAR ACEN ESC 2015 The Saracen Urban ESC is a ladies specific hybrid, with v-brakes and 24 Shimano gears. Designed for the UK urban environment, with rack and mudguard eyelets for practicality and versatility. Price: £299.99 www.velocipedecycles.co.uk
THE FOFFA URBAN A stylish bike for the enjoyment of cycling – or a trip to The Velo House café! With a seven-speed hassle-free get-youanywhere hub gear, it’s also available in grey and white. Price: £499 www.thevelohouse.com
FOCUS CULEBRO 2 The perfect blend of comfort and sporty ride, this aluminium speedster is the best choice for new riders and those attracted to the fitness benefits of cycling. With the new 105 Shimano 11-speed gearing, this is a fab bike with great componentry. Price: £899 www.thevelohouse.com
WIN!
You could win the Foffa bike, worth £499, courtesy of The Velo House in Tunbridge Wells. For your chance to win, email your name, address and telephone number to welcome@
thevelohouse.com by the closing date, 30th June 2015.
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Terms & Conditions
The first correct entry drawn at random will win a Foffa Urban bike. Prize is as stated. No cash alternative can be offered. The competition is not open to employees (or their immediate families) of the promoters, their agents or anyone professionally connected to the promotion. The winner will be chosen at random and will be notified within 14 days of the competition’s closing date. By entering this competition, you agree to receive occasional details of offers and promotions from The Velo House. All entrants to competitions are deemed to have accepted these rules and agree to be bound by them.
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JACKSONS FENCING Latest news, topical treats and more...
Ideas for making more of your garden this spring Try this idea for creating a green screen in your garden – an established customer of Jacksons, Nick Arrowsmith sent these photos in so we could see what good use he has put our raised beds with a single pergola to. I think it is a brilliant idea, and must admit it had not occurred to me, to use these in this particular way. You can see from the images that the two raised beds form the base for the single pergola above. By using tensioned wire as supports for the Clematis and Wisteria, he has planted in the raised beds, he will eventually end up with a totally green screen, which will enhance the privacy for the dining area he has created in this part of his garden. Here’s what he told me about the project: Hi Louise, I promised you images of our pergola and raised beds – some time ago I know, and here they are. I used tensioned stainless steel wires in between the upright posts to allow the plants to climb. These are available to buy online. The one I used was a surface mounted balustrade wire kit. It’s great that it’s made from stainless steel – so no rusting, and it should last ages, just like your products. I think it finished the pergola off really well and they are a more discreet finish than wooden trellis panels. We’ve planted one Wisteria in each planter and then filled each one with two different varieties of Clematis. I really can’t wait until we get the green screen we’re hoping for. Your products are lovely and of such good quality – we’re really pleased with the overall look. Please let me know what you think! Kind regards, Nick Arrowsmith Radcliffe on Trent
Raised beds form the base for planting climbers that will grow up the tensioned wires strung across the pergola
Well, it gets the thumbs up from me, Nick, thanks very much for sending those through and sharing your idea with us. If you want to see more of Nick’s photos you can go to his customer project story by visiting your dedicated web page where there’s a link to his and other customer project stories, with handy links to the products as well, including where you can get the tensioned stainless steel wire he used. On the subject of garden projects and makeovers, have you ever wished you could find a trustworthy and talented garden designer to come up with some exciting design ideas for your own patch? We’ve been working closely with the Society of Garden Designers on our RHS Hampton design competition and we’ve discovered a page on their web site that helps you to find a garden designer in your area, that is a member of the SGD – find a link to this on your dedicated page as well. www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/ashfordlocal or call 0800 408 4754 to talk to your local Jacksons Fencing Centre. louise@jacksons-fencing.co.uk
Win tickets to RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show
To celebrate our presence at RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower show we are having a free prize draw to win pairs of tickets to the show. The draw will run from the beginning of April until 15th June 2015. Winners will get a pair of tickets and will receive a goody bag when they drop by the Jacksons show garden when visiting the show. For full details and how to enter please go to your dedicated web page: www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/ashfordlocal
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YUMMY MUMMY CORNER
Whether you’re a yummy mummy, a loving partner or a doting grandparent, this is for you...
JELLY NICE
Kids will love this cute jelly-baby light made from soft silicone material and standing 20cm tall. Available in vibrant pink, purple, green and blue, it’s activated by simply giving the feet a squeeze. Price: £14.95 www.glow.co.uk
GLOW, GIRL
If those sleepless nights are leaving you looking less than fab, get an instant glow with Marks & Spencer’s Autograph Self Tan Velvet Touch Tinted Mousse for face and body. Price: £9.50 www.marksandspencer.com
DON’T SHOUT!
Shouting at your children only makes matters worse, says new research Mothers who angrily tell off their children when they step out of line may be making behaviour problems worse, according to research. A study by the London School of Economics found that excessive shouting and hard-line punishments was counterproductive. Ignoring naughty children also appeared to lead to deterioration in discipline standards, it was claimed. Researchers said that “reasoning with children” was more likely to have a positive impact on their behaviour at a young age. This latest study was based on an analysis of almost 19,000 children born in the first two years of the millennium. Data was collected from parents just before children’s first birthday, then when they turned three, five and seven. Researchers also interviewed school teachers and older siblings. The study assessed the impact of various parenting styles on children, and found that a mother’s parenting style “mainly influences the mental health of the child” rather than their physical wellbeing. Researchers said that “particularly excessive shouting, punishing or ignoring a naughty child” increases their behavioural problems,
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ANIMAL MAGIC
We just love cute giraffe-printed romper. Price: £11 www.next.co.uk
YOU ARE NOT ALONE…
In a survey commissioned by Nurofen for Children, one in six mums admitted to not enjoying motherhood until their child had passed their first birthday. 52% felt that they had lost their identity, 35% missed leaving the house and going to work, 52% felt that they had to find new friends and 24% found breastfeeding a challenge. adding: “Only reasoning does not impact the child’s behaviour.” Whether it’s toddler tantrums or teenager “back talk”, here are a few basic principles to help cut the shouting:
• L earn what is typical for the child’s age. Many discipline problems happen because parents expect too much of their children. • Be clear and tell your child exactly what you want. • Choose your battles! Save the heavy-duty rules for important issues. • Be consistent so your child will know you mean what you say. Make sure your child gets the same messages from both you and your partner. • W hen your child misbehaves, try to understand why. What need is not being met? • Give children plenty of attention and encouragement when they are behaving well. • Avoid threats and ultimatums. • Try not to nag. • Don’t bribe or make promises you can’t keep. Children do not need elaborate rewards for being good. • E xpect mistakes and help your child learn from them. • To teach children respect, talk to them respectfully without ridicule, sarcasm, name-calling or humiliation. Be a positive role model for your child – it is the most powerful form of teaching.
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TIME TO CARE Burrswood Hospital offers the highest standards of care in stunning surroundings
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Burrswood Hospital, registered with the Care Quality Commission, offers exceptionally high standards of compassionate, patientcentred, integrated medical and nursing care in beautiful surroundings to provide for the best possible outcomes. The independent 40-bed (en-suite rooms) hospital near Tunbridge Wells provides Whole Person Care by ensuring that a patient’s physical, emotional and spiritual needs are met by a team of highly-skilled doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, counsellors, chaplains and support staff, all helped by many trained volunteers. Our tailored approach enables the patient’s needs to be fully met with privacy, dignity and comfort.
Burrswood provides inpatient care for those needing: • Post-operative care following surgery • Convalescent care following a critical illness • Respite care • Longer-term rehabilitation, physiotherapy and hydrotherapy • Support for patients with MS, MND, Parkinson’s and CFS/ME • Counselling • End of Life Care/ Palliative Care. Outpatient services (which can include guest accommodation) include: • Counselling • Physiotherapy • Hydrotherapy • Clinically-approved complementary therapies • Coaching • Spiritual direction
Burrswood is a registered charity with over 60 years reputation as a Christian organisation that welcomes people of all faiths and none. We take referrals from hospital consultants, GPs, healthcare practitioners and patients themselves. Burrswood also has beautiful church and healing services, a tea room, gift shop and conference facilities, all set in acres of lovely gardens, grounds and woodlands. Visitors are always welcome. There are many ways you can support Burrswood by volunteering, by attending a wide variety of events such as our Opera Evening on 29th May and our Classic Car event on 7th June, or hear our visiting Mennonite Choir perform on 13th June. Burrswood Hospital, Groombridge, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 9PY Admissions: 01892 865988. Event tickets and donations 01892 865985. www.burrswood.org.uk
HEADS UP! A teacher and parents join our debate on whether too much technology too young is depriving our children of a happy childhood
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Late Spring is arguably my favourite time of year. The countryside and our gardens are coming alive in all their glorious colours and majesty; the days are growing longer daily and coats are increasingly being left in hall cupboards. For me, as a teacher, the most magical sound of all is the laughter and joy of children playing outside as they discover everything the great outdoors offers. My office looks down upon a tranquil garden, an area of relative peace where no ball games or running is allowed. Instead children talk, weave, listen, do crosswords or make mosaics whilst communicating and enjoying each other’s company. In other parts of the playground some are gardening or pond dipping, clambering over equipment or ‘hunting in the jungle’, skipping or playing football. All are busy, and during this time there is not a computer in sight. The spell is broken with the clang of a bell; children line up and re-enter the academic world reinvigorated and eager to learn. Then the computers, in our case the chrome books, come out and with confidence every child embraces the most up-to-date technology to extend and enhance their learning. Of course, computers and modern technology are vital. We would be underselling and limiting children’s opportunities and understanding of the ever-changing world in which they are growing up if we did not integrate technology into learning. But it is everything in moderation, and there is a time and place to ‘log out’, leave the computers behind, and open eyes and ears to the wonders of the real world.
Angela Culley
Headmistress of The Mead School, Tunbridge Wells, a co-ed prep school for children aged 3 to 11
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Screen time for the under threes: an Early Years teacher’s perspective
We don’t have screen time within our kindergarten and pre-reception classes as a general rule because – and this is it in a nutshell – we simply have too many other things to be getting on with. Once we have played, constructed, imagined, drawn, painted, talked, listened, danced, explored, sung, shared snack and meal times, there isn’t any time left over for computers. Of course, in these technological times, there is undeniably a place for Information Technology, and we (as teachers) would be doing our children a huge disservice if we didn’t make sure that they understood the basic premise of IT – i.e. the cause-and-effect relationship between pressing a button and making something happen. But this can be achieved through so many other activities and resources – programmable toys, cameras and cookery equipment, for example – which don’t eliminate the need for communication and shared learning in their use. If we use the computer within class time, it is to support learning for a specific purpose – for example, exploring how Hindu people celebrate Diwali, their Festival of Light. This is where computers and the internet come into their own in terms of kindergarten and pre-reception teaching. There are pre-schools where computer use is allowed within general free play time, but we have found that keeping 10 or more children away from the one child who is actually playing on the computer is almost impossible, such is their hypnotic affect. Computers can, if used inappropriately, eradicate the need for communication and interaction between children, and that’s not what we want in our schools.
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A Parent
To set my stall out, I am for the use of computers/tablets in developing your child. I am not one of those parents who thinks we shouldn’t expose our children to mobiles or tablets. What does concern me, though, is that most of us are particularly bad role models as we are continuously texting, on Facebook etc – so much so that perhaps children these days may think this is the norm. I would say that if we follow some simple guidelines, then we can use technology to supplement learning while not replacing traditional methods. 1. Do not allow the tablet to become an electronic babysitter. This can be so easy to do when you just want five minutes peace from the little darlings!! 2. Ensure it is beneficial to learning. I have seen in my own children that if the game or application is interactive, it not only help develops motor skills and hand-eye coordination but also helps in the recognition of shapes, colour and language. 3. Make the computer time shared. Sit with your child and share their experience. You can then help them pull information back from the application, ask them questions and learn. Plus, it makes it more fun for them – they don’t even realise they are learning. They just see it as quality play time with Daddy/Mummy. 4. Limit the time spent on the tablet. Aha, the hard part! You have given them something they enjoy and now you need to take it away. Set out the ground rules from the start and let them know they only have 30 or 60 minutes on the tablet – that is more than enough in any one day. I am a true advocate for computer use in young children – the sooner the better, as far as I am concerned. It is the way of the future and it’s here to stay. I don’t think it will be long before we see Computer Programming as a core subject in our primary schools. However, we must not let it replace traditional methods or hinder the development of social skills: the ability to have a chat, make eye contact with another person, play and have general interactive fun. After all, that’s what growing up is all about – learning and fun. When you combine the two, surely it can do no harm?
Yanouchka Sabbatini, a parent.
Eight years ago, when we had our first child, we decided to stop watching television. We realised that when we were tired, we would waste too much time seated in front of poor-quality programmes. Therefore, we gave up TV channels altogether, but because we are passionate about cinema, we kept a screen for films on DVD. Eight years and two children later, we still don’t watch TV channels, and neither do our children. They can watch cartoons or films on DVD that we carefully choose, but never during the school week and with a maximum of one film per weekend. The same rule applies towards computers, tablets and smart phones. The children can use them for a limited time for homework (Maths Whizz, creative writing, times tables
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practice), but not to play games – except when we are travelling long distance. Even in this case, we always propose to them books, drawings or other games first and now they don’t ask about the iPad any more! For our children, the screens are simply tools for searching information, learning and writing. Instead of sitting passively in front of a screen, they have developed an incredible imagination. They love to create new characters in their games, new stories and new objects (arts and crafts), to compose little songs on musical instruments... And when we are watching a film, we always discuss it afterwards, even if it is Star Wars!
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GOING GREEN
Renault’s budget all-electric car, ZOE, brings green motoring to the masses. But is it a worthwhile purchase for all but the most ardent eco-warrior?
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Everyone knows the story about electric vehicles. They’re great in principle, thanks to their zero tailpipe emissions and astonishingly-low energy consumption. But their limited range makes them impractical for anyone who doesn’t live in the middle of a city. And who wants to drive when they could take the tube? Another point against them has always been their comicallyhigh prices. Faced with the prospect of spending Range Rover money on a modestly-proportioned hatchback that looks just a bit, well, nerdy, few people are going to reach for their cheque book. Unless you’re George Monbiot, therefore, or possibly Caroline Lucas, the chances are electric cars won’t seem the right option for you. But what if you could get your hands on one for less than £14,000? And what if, rather than looking like a discarded prop from the set of Star Trek, it actually seemed stylish, perhaps even cool? That’s exactly what Renault offers in the form of its bargainbasement ZOE. You can put one of these on your drive for £13,995, thanks to a £5,000 contribution from the government to encourage green motoring. This makes the ZOE a genuine possibility, even for those on a limited budget. I drove the car on a private racing circuit, designed to give manufacturers a real-world testing environment away from prying eyes. That meant I used it in a variety of conditions, and was struck by the car’s honesty, as well as its engaging drive.
All-electric cars are best likened to dodgems when it comes to their performance. They have instant torque, and no gearing, meaning you can wind them up from a standing start with a satisfying fleetness of foot. Mind you, any sense of gratification is tempered by the disarming silence that emanates from the engine bay. The only sounds I detected were the creaks of the suspension and the gentle rhythm of my own breathing. It’s a bit like being on a yacht, minus the people yelling at you to let go of a sheet or watch out for the boom. Another similarity to sailing is the sense of being at one with nature. It sounds strange to say it, but there’s a certain joy in piloting a car that you know is treading lightly on the planet, especially when your usual transport is rather less green. It almost made me wish I could drive a ZOE every day of the week. But herein lies the rub, for just as I was beginning to form a bond with the ZOE, it ran out of charge. It was something of a relief, because the flimsy seats were beginning to give me back ache. And so I was reminded that, no matter how cheap the ZOE is, there are whole swathes of drivers for whom it simply wouldn’t be practical. Even in the pretend real world of a car test track, I was left high and dry by a lack of juice. Worse still, there wasn’t even a tube to catch.
RENAULT ZOE, ALL-ELECTRIC Price: From £13,995, including a £5,000 government grant Performance: Max speed 84mph
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Charging time: Four hours Range: up to 90 miles (approx)
LOV E C AR S
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MEN ONLY
Everything you need for a stylish life
ROCK ON TOUCH WOOD
Add strength, style and a touch of nature to your smartphone with this sleek CLIC wooden iPhone 6 case. Handcrafted from sustainable American wood, the case feels pleasing to the touch, and makes your phone more resistant to damage, without adding too much bulk. Each case, made by Native Union, has its own distinctive colouring and unique grain, and is precision-engineered and completely unique. The case is surprisingly slim, but built to last – and a nice alternative to plastic or leather. Price: £35 www.conranshop.co.uk
Striped Brighton Rock shirt and tie set, £28, and Brighton Rock leather satchel, £125 www.next.co.uk
OFF THE CUFF
These upcycled cufflinks from Yours Sustainably are made from artists’ canvasses rescued from charity shops which are then splattered with acrylic paint... very Jackson Pollock! The canvas is cut, varnished and mounted onto wood salvaged from building sites. Each pair is unique and comes packaged in a presentation recycled cardboard box. Price: £22.50 www.yourssustainably.com
KEEP YOUR HAIR ON
New research brings hope to balding men Baldness may soon be a thing of the past, as scientists believe stem cells could hail a new future in the way the condition is treated. The most common form of alopecia, or hair loss, is malepattern baldness, which affects around half of men by the time they reach 50. Now the Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute in San Diego, California, believe the condition could finally be treated, and have announced they are able to grow new hair
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using human stem cells. In the past, scientists isolated health dermal papilla cells, which are vital to hair growth, and grew them in a culture. But, as the cells reproduce, they become less effective. To make their breakthrough, the scientists avoided the problem by producing the papillae from stem cells – a technique proven to work on rats. They now hope the procedure could lead to more effective hair transplants in humans.
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PLANNING FAILURE
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The second biggest planning failure is to believe your plan, says Mike Clayton
Our planning often lets us down, so to avoid some of the common mistakes, here are 10 things that go wrong with plans, and what you can do about each of them.
1. Planning Fallacy
Perhaps the commonest cause of plans going wrong is the tendency to under-estimate the time, cost or resources needed. This is due to over-optimism about what you can achieve. Solution: Ask someone else (or a team of people when dealing with a large, complex plan) to review your plans with a sceptical eye. While we all typically over-estimate what we can achieve, most of us equally have a more realistic view of what others can do.
2. History Neglect
Another common failure is not looking back and learning from the lessons of the past, leading us to repeat the same mistakes. Solution: A deliberate process of reviewing all relevant recollections, records and data.
3. Narrow Focus
If you focus too much on your own tasks, you can find yourself ignoring external factors that will impinge on what you are doing. Solution: Put your head over the parapet and look around at what else is happening in your team, your organisation, and your social and commercial environment. Ask what trends can affect what you are doing.
4. Competition Neglect
Related to narrow focus, one specific source of planning error is to ignore the actions of other people or organisations that are, in some way, competing with you. It is in their interests to seize resources, misrepresent your situation, or to change the environment in which you are operating. While narrow focus refers to benign or neutral forces, competition neglect addresses potentially malevolent interests. Solution: Consider role-playing a simulation, taking the perspective of a potential competitor to identify their possible strategies and how they may affect your initiative.
5. Illusion of Control
Two things combine to create the illusion of control: the tendency to ignore events and forces that are out of your control and focus only on those that you can determine, and the belief that we can control events that are, in fact, outside our control. Solution: Look for the critical point where your plan can fail and focus on that. Control what you can control and monitor everything else constantly, so you are ready to act on any changes.
6. Murphy’s Arrogance
Murphy’s Law says that ‘if anything can go wrong – it will go wrong.’ Murphy’s arrogance is acting as if you are special; that Murphy’s Law does not apply to you. Solution: Conduct a pre-mortem. Before you finalise your plan – and certainly before you start work on it – think about everything that could go wrong and amend your plan to deal with each possibility, according to its seriousness.
7. Hero Pressure
Have you ever succumbed to the temptation to accept a heroic – but impossible – challenge? That’s hero pressure. It may bring out the best in us, in some ways, but succumbing 92
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also leads to wasted effort. Solution: It is hard to spot hero pressure until it is too late. But your friends and colleagues can see it coming and recognise the tell-tale signs. The solution is therefore to ask a trusted colleague to act as a critical friend or mentor, to say: ‘Hey, look out!’
8. Requirement Creep
The world changes, people change their minds or realise they got it wrong. Some people even take any opportunity to take advantage. ‘Could you just…’ are the three words you fear above all others. Solution: Constantly review what is needed pro-actively. When needs change or new opportunities arise, evaluate them.
9. Complexity Effect
We often underestimate the time, budget and resources that we will need to cope with the complexity of inter-dependencies. Unlike narrow focus, where we don’t see the complexities, here, we just oversimplify them. The complexity effect kicks in as soon as people need to work together, or you need co-operation from other agencies. Solution: Where you can: simplify, and where you cannot: build in contingency.
10. Black Swans
Nassim Nicholas Taleb named the Black Swan effect in his book of the same name. It stands for those unknowable future events that sometimes catch us out. The planning risk is that you focus on what you know and are over-confident in your belief that all you know is all there is. Solution: In the face of uncertainty and rapid change, the most valuable single piece of information is your goal: what matters most. In military language, this is the ‘commander’s intent’ and gives every officer the context within which to make decisions in the face of changed circumstances, and an inability to communicate with their commander. I have offered solutions on a one-to-one basis, matching each to a single planning problem. But each solution can address multiple problems and each problem can deserve several fixes. Planning is one of the most important secrets to success, so if all of this sounds a little off-putting, remember this: The biggest planning failure is to fail to plan. www.mikeclayton.co.uk
KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2015
APPLE. IS IT LOVE OR HATE? Richard Ellis McCallum of A&E IT talks about making the transition from PC to MAC painless Apple designs and builds Macs – the finest personal computers in the world. The company has revolutionised digital music with its iPods, reinvented the mobile with the iPhone and is redefining personal computing devices with the iPad and the newly released Apple Watch. Now Apple is worth more than $733billion. Surprisingly that’s also more than Google and Microsoft combined* making Apple the most successful tech firm in history. But it wasn’t always this way. In the 90s Apple was floundering. That all changed when Steve Jobs, Apple’s co-founder, returned to the company in 1997 and the turnaround began. First the iMac, then the iPod, then the iPhone. People who had never experienced Apple really liked the design, build quality and the intuitive interface of the products. But they were still stuck in a Windows time warp. That’s where Apple specialists like A&E IT come in. We make the migration from PC to Mac painless. All your photos, music and documents stored on your PC can be moved to Apple for a more productive and rewarding computer experience. You may already own an iPhone or iPad and enjoy using them. Now, in this series of articles, you can learn how to migrate from your troublesome Windows PC to a computer that does what you want, when you want, without any fuss. We’ll teach you how to access all your music around every
room in the house. How to implement a reliable and automatic back-up regime that will get you out of trouble quickly and efficiently. You’ll learn how to safeguard your hardware and protect your critical data. Discover how to recover your Apple ID and enjoy your digital life without stress. Email gethelp@aande.it anytime for help, and enjoy! www.aande.it *Fortune.com
The Wealth Chef: Recipes to Make Your Money Work Hard, So You Don’t Have To
By Ann Wilson International finance coach Ann Wilson is known as the Wealth Chef because of her ability to help people cook up monetary success. In this book, Ann has laid out a step-by-step guide to creating financial freedom. In its pages, readers will find five recipes for wealth that helped Ann go from having nothing to becoming a multimillionaire. Ann takes what she’s learned from her own life and from teaching around the world – from Africa, to Asia, to Australia, to America, to Europe – and gives readers an in-depth yet manageable plan and tested principles to improve their relationship with money. £8.50 Published by Hay House www.hayhouse.co.uk
Entrepreneur Revolution: How to Develop Your Entrepreneurial Mindset and Start a Business That Works By Daniel Priestley
The world is embarking on a new age: the age of the entrepreneur, the agile small business owner, the flexible innovator. In this book, Daniel Priestley sets out his case that it’s time to break free from the industrial-revolution mindset, to follow your dream and make a fortune along the way. Entrepreneur Revolution is a masterclass in gaining an entrepreneurial mindset, showing you how to change the way you think, the way you network, and the way you make a living. Be inspired to think like an entrepreneur and find ways to adapt your lifestyle. £12.99 Published by Capstone www.thisiscapstone.com KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2015
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GARDEN GLORY
Penny Brookes of le petit jardin in Tunbridge Wells spills the secrets of her magical shop
Why did you decide to open le petit jardin?
We had visited some beautiful garden-inspired shops in Brussels and Copenhagen, and thought somebody should open one in Tunbridge Wells as at the time – 2003 – there was nothing similar, only large and run-of-the-mill garden centres. We wanted to find unusual, practical and beautiful products made by small makers and specialist companies.
What was your background? Had you run a shop or had any retail experience before?
My only retail experience was part-time student jobs. To be honest, I had no idea what I was embarking on. The five years prior to opening le petit jardin I spent at Tate Britain. My roles included being a terrible PA and helping to organise exhibitions from the collections that were to travel abroad. This was a fabulous time, but I knew I was never going to achieve great heights in the Arts, as it is such a competitive industry and I am more country mouse than city mouse.
What about business experience? Nothing – eek!!
Why did you choose gardening and housewares for the shop?
We had recently moved to a lovely little townhouse with a super 94
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sunny garden in Tunbridge Wells. I was very underwhelmed by the goods on offer at garden centres and sought out independent shops on our travels. We knew if we were going to open a shop it would be small, so it needed a coherent theme to tie it together. My husband came up with le petit jardin – so we went with the theme of the small French garden.
Where do you source your products?
We’ve stumbled across many lovely specialist companies and small makers from the UK, France, Denmark, Germany and a company in Sweden who employ visually-impaired people to make their beautiful brushes. We also stock fair-trade products, including a range of basketware made in Bangladesh providing valuable work and income to small rural communities, enabling the building of schools in the area. Many of our suppliers have become friends over the years, so it is often a joy collaborating and working together.
How has your business changed over the years?
Probably our biggest change was acquiring the shop next door and knocking through a few years ago. Not only has this doubled the size of the shop, but it allowed us to have two distinct areas – garden and interiors, although this changes with the seasons. We have changed our style over the years, too, not simply by following trends but according to our own personal style and KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2015
interests. It would be very easy to go to two or three principal suppliers as some shops do and buy their style. But that approach is not for us, so we evolve and add or subtract items from a myriad of handpicked suppliers to create our unique and evolving look. That’s what keeps us different, I think.
And what changes have you seen in and around Chapel Place since 2003?
Shops and businesses come and go, however we are very lucky that the vast majority of the businesses in Chapel Place are still independent and the pedestrianised street is thriving. From coffee shops and cafes, bridal gowns, a contemporary art gallery, secondhand bookshops, butcher, Post Office and, of course, le petit jardin and other homeware shops, it is THE place to shop and wander!
Have people’s tastes changed too? Do you get requests for things today that you wouldn’t have had when you first opened?
We have been asked for gnomes. We have never sold and will never sell gnomes!! Tastes have changed and so have we. I think we used to be more decorative than we are now (think French twirls!!). Now we are much more utilitarian and cleaner. We also change season to season. In the spring and summer our emphasis is on outdoor living and gardening – from brightlycoloured French metal furniture, stripey French deckchairs, handmade garden tools and garden lighting (one of our best sellers is enamelled hurricane lanterns from Germany). For winter, especially Christmas, we stock stunning Danish decorations as well as beautiful interior accessories, including handmade coloured glassware from Belgium and fabulous gifts for the gardener and home maker.
What are the most popular items in the shop currently?
For summer, colourful French garden furniture by the wellestablished and innovative company Fermob is ever popular. Customers come from far and wide to purchase a little piece of French chic from us; think Parisien roof terrace or Provençal poolside. The range starts with the classic folding bistro furniture developed in 1889 for use outside a million cafés in France, and extends to large tables seating up to 14 for a summer banquet, benches, loungers and even a powder-coated aluminium contemporary rocking chair based on the chairs still dotted around the Jardin du Luxembourg in the heart of Paris.
How many staff do you have, and how often are you in the shop?
We keep things to a minimum staff-wise, because of the cost. I have a wonderful lady who helps out a little bit in the week and friends that step in for the occasional emergency. Other than that I do most of the days in the shop myself, with my husband running around during weekends and on his days off from his full-time job.
What have been the main challenges you’ve faced since you opened? Cardboard!! I did not know how much cardboard would need recycling on an almost-daily basis. Not glamorous, especially in the rain!!
How did the recession affect you?
We battled through. I think being small helps; we try and keep our costs and overheads low. Probably our ‘posh shed’ look helps in austere times? KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2015
Are you seeing signs that the economy is picking up?
Yes, it seems to be, but there are so many factors when it comes to good trading and bad. You cannot tell if it’s the economy or other factors such as the weather and sporting events!! Also, we have been around for 12 years, so people kindly seek us out as a destination, which probably makes a difference.
Any plans to expand?
We have thought about opening a second or third branch. However, that would turn the business into a different concern entirely and I would become a manager (not my forte). Therefore we are concentrating on improving our website and will re-launch it very soon with an online shop. Check out www.le-petit-jardin.com for developments.
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STREET LIFE Tunbridge Wells Street Pastors are made up of volunteers from the local area who give their time to help make our town a safer place on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, as Polly Joyce explains
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What’s the history of Street Pastors? Street Pastors began as the churches’ response to crime and antisocial behavior in Brixton. A new pastor, Les Isaacs, had taken over a church there. His congregation was telling him of the problems in the area. Claiming that the council did nothing and the police did nothing, Les Isaacs response was “What are we, the church doing?” He then developed the idea of the church, local authority and police working together to combat crime and anti-social behaviour. It took some time to convince everyone that this was a good idea but the results have been staggering, with massive drops in crime and trouble when the Street Pastors are out. What has actually happened is that Street Pastors have reclaimed the street for law-abiding citizens, reducing the number of no-go areas. Since its beginning in 2003 in Brixton, Street Pastors now operates in 275 locations in the UK with in excess of 11,000 volunteers. This means that Street Pastors patrol annually for 600,000 hours. This uniformed presence would cost the tax payer £15.5 million if undertaken by paid staff.
When was Tunbridge Wells Street Pastors set up? A group of Christians got together to develop the concept and these people formed the first set of trustees of what is now a separate charity. Once the council and police were on board, we sought volunteers from churches and the first team of Street Pastors began their training in September 2009, ready to go out on the street on 8th January 2010. The Street and Prayer Pastors come from 22 local churches – an amazing ecumenical presence. We began by going out every Friday night but now we try to go out on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. We can’t do this every week because we don’t have enough people, and we would like to be able to extend our presence.
Who is a typical Street Pastor? There isn’t really a typical Street Pastor – in Tunbridge Wells they have ranged in age from 18 to 90 years of age, male and female, big and small, bold and shy! The only thing they have in common is that they are all practicing Christians who want to help people.
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Describe a typical night for Street Pastors Just after 9.30pm, we meet up with the Prayer Pastors at base, to pray before we go out, check supplies in our pockets and rucksacks, sign in with CCTV control room and head out into the night. We walk from one end of the town to the other, engaging with door staff, passersby and customers as they leave venues for a cigarette or to move elsewhere. We have lists of telephone numbers of organisations to give to people if they have serious problems that need to be taken further, for example drink or drug problems, debt or housing issues, domestic violence etc. If there is anything of concern, one of us will phone back to the Prayer Pastors at base who will then confidentially pray about the situation. The atmosphere is usually different in the second half of the night as alcohol fuels the situation. We witness more aggression and fights, particularly when venues close. On many occasions we have been in the right place at the right time to talk people out of a fight and to diffuse an angry situation.
How are Street Pastors received by people? When we began back in 2009, we were sometimes viewed with suspicion. Everyone wanted to know what motivated us – and that is still the most common question. “Why are you prepared to walk around in the rain and cold, talking to us, not getting any pay, when you could be tucked up in bed!?” But now, generally, we have earned a very warm reception from the vast majority. We helped at least 500 people on the streets last year and handed out 87 pairs of flip flops, 3715 lollies, 195 bottles of water and 41 blankets. We also attended 37 anti-social incidents and we collected at least 800 bottles/broken glass off the streets. Last year, Street Pastors volunteered for a total of 2125 hours! Since we started in 2009, we have volunteered 7734 hours!
How would someone go about becoming a Street Pastor? Is there any special training?
How many people are involved in the Tunbridge Wells Group?
Volunteers fill in an application form with a reference from their priest or pastor. Applicants have to be active members of their church. If accepted after an interview by two of the trustees, they undergo 12 sessions of training, some of which has to be undertaken before they can go out on the streets.
We currently have 39 Prayer Pastors and 38 Street Pastors from 25 different churches including Anglican, Catholic, Baptist and the Free Churches. We go out on alternate Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Every Street Pastor goes out ideally one night a month.
www.tunbridgewells.streetpastors.org.uk
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