Kudos issue 33 by Kudos Kent

Your free lifestyle magazine for Kent and East Sussex

Issue 33

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WELCOME TO KUDOS

Hello Welcome to the March/April issue of Kudos Our cover for this issue is a step away from the ordinary – bears frolicking in a flower-studded field aren’t usual in East Sussex or Kent! The photograph reflects the work of International Animal Rescue in Uckfield, the subject of this issue’s Local Hero feature. The charity not only works to save animals from suffering, it also campaigns to protect their habitats. They work with orangutans, howler monkeys and macaques, and also rescue dancing bears in India and Nepal, and caged bears in Armenia, hence our cover. It’s a very worthwhile charity. On a lighter note, we have gift ideas for Easter and Mother’s Day, and stylish fashion for sunny days, including a pastel-pretty lilac collection for the whole family. Stand-up comedian Lucy Porter is the subject of our celebrity interview. She talks about her new show, which you can catch at Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells in April, and how her husband is the butt of many of her jokes. We also meet a family who brought new life to a tired Victorian cottage, and check out the top kitchen design trends for this year (think bold colour and open shelves). Outside, we create a perfumed garden and look at why gardening is a very British pursuit. Local Head Teachers pass on words of wisdom to today’s trainee teachers, and you can find out what frustrates Emma Károlyi, Head of Junior King’s, Canterbury, and why Mike Piercy, Headmaster of The New Beacon, rates Kingsley Amis.

Twitter, Instagram & Facebook: kudoskent Web: www.kudoskent.co.uk Managing Director: Robin Tucek Publishing Director: Hannah Tucek Editorial Director: Ann Wallace Creative Director: Neil Constant Sales Manager: Deanna Lewer Fashion Editor: Sally-Ann Carroll Photographer: Matt Harquail

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sales@badbettymedia.co.uk Kudos is published bi-monthly by:

While every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers, authors and printers cannot accept liability for errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Prices and details correct at time of going to press. 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.

We investigate the benefits of a power nap – even 10 minutes will have an effect, apparently – and look at the new breed of school-run mums. Can you spot yourself? As usual, this issue is packed with good things. I hope you enjoy it!

Hannah Tucek Publishing Director

Contents 8 Kudos loves... 12 News & events 36 Love Easter 38 Spring fashion 42 Love celebrity 47 Love food and drink 50 Love home 66 Love garden 70 Love education 84 Love family 92 Love business 94 Love charity 96 Love heroes

36 K U D O S M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Walshes Park, Crowborough

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4pm

Taken by Matt Harquail

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K U DOS LOV E S

Things we love this issue

Read this

Known to many for the famous battle of 1066, which was not actually fought in the town, Hastings has so much more to offer. In Secret Hastings & St Leonards, author Tina Brown reveals many little-known stories about Hastings, from the fact that it was the birthplace of television inventor John Logie Baird to the unique Piece of Cheese House in the old quarter, built as a bet in 1871. It also explores secret places, like The Mortuary House with its cold chamber and coffin hatches, and tunnels still lying under much of the town today, connected with the smuggling past. £8.57 www.amazon.co.uk

Crunch on these

When you soak nuts and seeds, you activate germination – the sprouting of a seed to a plant – which releases all the natural enzymes and nutrients Mother Nature had locked away for the growing process. You also wash away the natural phytic acid layer, which hinders digestion. That’s why the Boundless range of soaked, activated nuts and seeds are super-nutritious, lighter on your tummy and more in tune with nature. They are then gently baked using natural ingredients for a fuller flavour and lighter crunch, with combinations including Cayenne and Rosemary, Turmeric and Smoked Paprika, Tamari and Aleppo, and Orange, Ginger and Maple. From £1.50 www.boroughbox.com 8

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K U DOS LOV E S

Spray this

Wear this

Smarten up your footwear with Nimble trainers – available in suede (£295) or leather (£320) and in a variety of colours. This style provides everyday comfort through Technogel 3D Insoles and ultra-lightweight soles. www.harrysoflondon.com

Formulated on a base of organic rose water and cucumber seed extract, Sister & Co’s Instant Moisture Mist hydrates, tones and balances the skin as part of your daily skincare routine. Many face mists are packed with synthetic preservatives, as water-based products require preservation. They also often contain synthetic perfume. Sister & Co source the finest-quality organic rose water, which means the natural aroma is deep yet delicate, and the radish-root preservative is entirely natural and will keep the face mist at its freshest after it’s been opened. Use after cleansing and before adding a facial oil, as well as when you’re on the go and in need of added moisture and refreshment. Suitable for all skin types, it’s perfect for carrying in your handbag or for travelling – it’s brilliant at combatting dry airplane air. £22 www.sisterandcoskinfood.co.uk

Drink this

Leeds Castle celebrates its 900th anniversary this year and to celebrate, they’ve teamed up with Copper Rivet Distillery in Medway to produce a special edition Motte & Baillie gin. The gin has been distilled in a limited batch of 900 bottles and is infused with specially-selected botanicals from the Castle estate: sweet fig from the Castle Island, floral Rosehip from the Culpeper Gardens, and fragrant pine picked from the Lady Baillie Mediterranean Terraces. Each botanical was handpicked by the Leeds Castle gardeners and given to Copper Rivets Head Distiller to infuse the flavours and create this unique, craft gin. £48 www.leeds-castle.com/eshop 10

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K U DOS LOV E S

Snack on these

Since sea vegetables have been recently labelled the newest superfood, get your fill with Shore Seaweed Puffs. They’re delicate little puffs that are as moreish as crisps but without the high calorific value, at only 100 calories per bag! The puffs are packed with nutrients, electrolytes, vitamins and minerals and come in four delicious flavours. What’s more, the iodine content in the puffs can help to remove toxic chemicals from the body and increase your energy levels. £1.19 www.realfoods.co.uk

Swallow these

Bare Biology’s Omega 3-rich Lion Heart Maxi has 1,300mg of the essential polyunsaturated fatty acid in just two capsules. We need Omega 3 for our bodies to work properly, but we can’t naturally produce it so we have to eat it in our diet (fish, seafood, nuts, seeds and plant oils), or take a supplement. Omega 3 is recognised for being excellent for overall health and wellbeing, and may have benefits for a stronger cardiovascular system and eye and brain health, with anti-ageing properties. It can also give protection against sun damage and relieve skin conditions such as acne and eczema. Bare Biology is the only UK fish oil that uses wild fish that are caught sustainably and have an IFOS 5 star rating, the highest accolade given and signifies the quality, strength and purity of the oil. £28.50 www.barebiology.com

LOV E N EWS

Upfront What’s new and happening Kings Hill through the ages New book chronicles the remarkable history of this thriving community A much-anticipated book charting Kings Hill’s history from medieval royal hunting ground and wartime airfield to the thriving community it is today has just been published, with all proceeds going to the charity Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI). Kings Hill – A Different Ball Game is illustrated with photographs dating back to the Second World War and of Kings Hill today, including a stunning aerial shot of the village in the snow. It includes chapters on life during the war, the site’s purchase by Kent County Council from the Ministry of Defence for £475,000 in 1971, how Liberty (or Rouse Kent as it was known then) and Kent County Council formed a partnership to develop Kings Hill into a contemporary garden village, the preservation of its heritage and the lifestyle, and workplace people enjoy today. Among many interesting facts, it explains why the wartime officers’ mess was called ‘The Twitch’ (named after the nervous tic aircrew would develop after one too many ops), the ghostly appearance of a Mosquito fighter and other spooky tales, as well as people describing their lives at Kings Hill in the 21st century. “It’s a celebration of the birth of Kings Hill and is dedicated to all those who had a hand in its creation,” said Caroline Binns, Liberty’s Associate Director, Marketing & Leasing. “It’s a treat for history lovers, but much of the book explains the stories behind its development – how the site’s heritage has been honoured, the commissioning of the sculptures which have become its landmarks, and how, as developers, we go about crafting a new village with a landscape-first approach and much more. “Many of those working and living at Kings Hill have contributed stories and memories and lots of the photos are of them and their life here. “We have decided to give all proceeds from the book to the RBLI which is raising £14.5m to create a new Centenary Village close to its Aylesford headquarters from where it delivers care, accommodation, training and employment services for veterans.” Steve Sherry CMG OBE, RBLI Chief Executive, said: “We are immensely proud to have been chosen as the beneficiaries of this truly remarkable book. Not only will it tell readers about the rich, deep history of one of Kent’s most established communities in Kings Hill, but it will also directly benefit the lives of injured ex-servicemen and women living in RBLI’s own village, right in the heart of the county.” Kings Hill – A Different Ball Game is available from the Kings Hill Control Tower reception, priced £10.

Lean times Slimming expert from Tunbridge Wells shortlisted for a national award Susie Holtham, who runs two Slimming World groups in Tunbridge Wells, is a finalist in the national Top Target Consultant 2019 award, which recognises the personal weight loss achievements of those who work to help others reach their goals. To be eligible for the award, Susie has personally lost more than three stone and maintains a healthy BMI, all while supporting the efforts of hundreds of other local slimmers. Susie said: “I’m really pleased and stunned to be shortlisted for this award. My job is to help others to achieve their target weight, so to be recognised for my own success is a wonderful surprise.” Having joined Slimming World to lose weight in 2013, Susie reached her target and set up her own group in 2016, followed by another last year. “I felt old and unfit and frumpy in my 20s,” explains Susie. “I now feel fit and fabulous in my 40s, with a new confidence and zest for life. Slimming World has given me the opportunity to feel as confident on the inside as I appeared on the outside, and to have that recognised in this way means so much to me.” Susie runs groups at St Peter’s Church, Bayhall Road, on Tuesdays, and St Mark’s Primary School, Ramslye Road, on Wednesdays. Email: susie.holtham@hotmail.co.uk 12

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X-ray vision New studio and gallery space in Lenham for unique artist A new Process Gallery opened its door recently to local art lovers in Lenham, Kent. Mayor of Maidstone, David Naghi, was one of the guests who celebrated at the launch with world-renowned X-ray artist, Nick Veasey. The gallery combines the working studio of artist Nick Veasey, a stunning gallery space and, later this year, sculpture gardens. As well as showing Veasey’s work, the gallery will in the future support other contemporary artists. It also provides a world-first, as visitors will be able to watch Nick at work in the purpose-built X-ray chamber. Nick Veasey, a Kent-based artist whose work is comprised of X-ray images, has exhibited globally. He uses X-ray technology to ‘strip back the layers’ and show what is under the surface, exploring our obsession as a culture with external appearances and undermining their superficial value. Says Nick: “X-ray is an honest process – it has integrity, it reveals how a subject is designed, whether that be by man or by nature. By removing surface detail and exposing the normallyinvisible internal make up of an object, my work is a continuous comment about the superficiality of modern life. It’s what’s on the inside that really matters.” Process Gallery was designed by multi-award winning Guy Hollaway Architects, who work in London and Kent. The striking concrete pyramid houses a bespoke studio for Nick Veasey’s X-ray equipment and incorporates a unique, solid-concrete X-ray chamber that was cast on site. It also provides exhibition space for the viewing public. Says Guy Hollaway: “Our inspiration for the building was to reflect the function of the artist. The sculptural form of the chamber emulates the splay of the X-ray machine. Objects are X-rayed from above, the higher the X-ray machine, the larger the object which can be captured. The entire building exposes the artist’s process, complete with a camera lens window which frames a view of the gallery.” The results are beguilingly detailed and were described by London’s Victoria & Albert museum ‘forensic investigation as an art form’. In addition to the V&A, Veasey has work in many other eminent international museums and collections, and is represented by commercial galleries all over the world. Process Gallery, Sandway Road, Sandway, Lenham, Kent ME17 2LU

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For your eyes only Where to find the eyewear that wows If you wear glasses, head to Edney & Edney in Tunbridge Wells, a design-led eyewear boutique offering a premium service and the most stylish collection in town. You’ll find a hand-picked selection of classic and cutting-edge eyewear from international independent brands, and a personalised service aimed at finding the right glasses for you. Discover the eyewear and the stories behind the brands and their designers. Eyewear where both traditional and cutting-edge materials are crafted with skill, precision and finesse, coming to life when the frame finds the face it was made for. Says Eyewear Stylist and Optician Jamie Edney: “Our clients deserve to be inspired by their eyewear. It’s part of their personality rather than just a brand name stamped on the side of a frame that looks like any other. Great eyewear is a representation of the wearer and their character, a personal statement and enhancement to both vision and appearance.” With an eye for spotting emerging talent, Jamie hand-selects each and every frame from the most exceptional eyewear designers working all around the world. Setting his pulse racing at the start of 2019 is Jacques Marie Mage (pictured below) – a collection designed in Hollywood and hand-crafted in Japan. Jacques Marie Mage is a design-centred luxury goods brand. Based in Hollywood, California, they specialise in the micro-production of premier quality, limited-edition eyewear for a clientele of discerning tastes. Jamie explains: “Jacques Marie Mage frames are handmade using either the finest quality Japanese titanium or stunning 10mm Takhiron block acetate. Frames are then finished with either .925 sterling silver or 18k gold decals.” Another collection proving to be a huge hit amongst the style conscious is theo (pictured right) – designed to incorporate a touch of humour, individuality and a certain ‘edge’. theo frames combine fantastic architecture with a bold, confident colour palette. At Edney & Edney, finding your perfect pair of glasses or sunglasses should be an enjoyable and relaxed experience, something to look forward to. You don’t have to stare blankly at row upon row of frames, as Edney & Edney are on hand to guide you through the whole process and style accordingly. With over 24 years styling experience, owner Jamie Edney thinks there is a perfect face for each and every one of his frames. Whether you are looking for the sophisticated elegance of MYKITA, the spark of imagination that is l.a.Eyeworks or the sheer luxury of Chrome Hearts, Edney & Edney will find your perfect match. 35 Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells. Tel. 01892 517986 www.edneyandedney.com

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The strongest link New Biggin Hill Memorial Museum now open “Historians often face the challenging job of representing history secondhand and the heavy responsibility of telling other people’s stories on their behalf. However, Biggin Hill Memorial Museum is offering a very different experience. Through video interviews, photographs and written testimonies, the real people involved in the Battle of Britain will share their experiences with you first-hand. I hope visitors to the museum will be inspired through these honest accounts of life at war and the many people behind the military successes passed down as legend through the years.” (Historian and TV presenter Dan Snow) Following a 16-month construction project, the brand new Biggin Hill Memorial Museum has opened its doors to local, national and international visitors, offering them the chance to experience the inspirational history of Britain’s most famous airfield. The museum tells the story of Biggin Hill through the experiences of the people who served and lived there. The museum also secures the future of St. George’s RAF Chapel of Remembrance, the moving memorial to the 454 pilots killed flying from RAF Biggin Hill during the Second World War. The Grade IIlisted chapel, built in 1951 at the behest of Sir Winston Churchill, with a wooden floor made from slats of sectioned propeller blades and 12 stained-glass windows designed by Hugh Easton’s studio (responsible for the Battle of Britain window at Westminster Abbey), has been painstakingly restored to its original 1950s design and will continue to serve as a place of worship and pilgrimage. RAF Biggin Hill played a pivotal role in the Second World War. Originally established in 1917 as a testing ground for pioneering developments in flight, Biggin Hill has given us many of the comforts we take for granted as we fly around the world today – air-to-air communication, seat belts, altimeters and pressure gauges, to name a few. But it is Biggin Hill’s role in the Battle of Britain ( JulyOctober 1940) that defines its history. Part of a chain of airfields that protected the capital, RAF Biggin Hill was memorably described by Churchill as ‘the strongest link’. The inspirational experiences of ‘the Few’, who risked their lives in defence of the nation, and ‘the Many’ who supported them on the ground are revealed from a wealth of newly-discovered archives and collections. The museum is a sensitive, contemporary design that wraps around the chapel, similar to a cloister, acting visually as a frame and symbolically as protection. From the fighter pilots facing the realities of aerial combat, to the local pub landlady creating a sense of normality, to children scavenging souvenirs from the battles overhead, the story told by the museum is above all about the people who served, worked and lived there. The museum will protect and share these important stories with future generations, thanks to a very active schools programme, and will preserve the memory of those whose extraordinary bravery in the skies and on the ground played a significant role in shaping the course of the 20th century. More than 80 exhibits – many donated by the public – are included in the interactive, multimedia display. The museum is split into themes – Early Years, Station Life, Community Life and Remembering. A diverse and unique array of objects bring the personal stories to life, from a 50kg unguided bomb (not active!) and the Biggin Hill ‘Scramble’ and ‘Victory’ bells, to a Luftwaffe tea set and the table from a local pub that had fighter pilots’ names carved into the wood. Visitors will also see a set of children’s Recognition Cards depicting 14 German aircraft and a child’s gas mask and box. The fears, excitement and losses of aerial combat are revealed through items such as an escape crowbar for a Spitfire, a cockpit clock for a ME109 German aircraft, Browning machine gun, log book, fragments of pilots’ maps, compasses, complete uniforms and flying jackets. A wealth of personal items – cigarette cases, swagger sticks, ID cards, wallets, binoculars – along with letters, photographs and oil paintings by legendary WAAF artist Elva Blacker, complete the display. Audio guide commentary is led by historian Dan Snow, who is joined by the voices of veterans including the late Geoffrey Wellum (the youngest Spitfire pilot to fly in the Battle of Britain at just 19 years of age) and Tom Neil. A visit to the Museum climaxes in thought-provoking displays on combat, bravery, fear and loss. 16

Before visitors enter St George’s Chapel, they are encouraged to look up through a light-well to the sky and contemplate the unchanged frontline of the Battle of Britain. It was up there that the 454 pilots memorialised on the ornamental screen behind the altar in the Chapel gave their lives. Organisations and individuals have given over £5.3 million to allow Phase One of this long-awaited scheme to become a reality. Generous donations continue to be received towards developing Phase Two – the Learning Centre and Memorial Wall. Biggin Hill Memorial Museum Director, Jemma Davey, says: “There has long been an aspiration for a museum which remembers ‘the Few’ and honours ‘the Many’. The museum shares people’s experiences of war at RAF Biggin Hill ‘in their own words’. We hope their stories will inspire generations and continue to remind us of the very best of the human spirit.” www.bhmm.org.uk K U D O S M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 1 9

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Has anyone seen Harry? Chilstone’s bronze hippo sculpture has gone missing – and a cuddly hippo toy has arrived from the US Chilstone, makers of handcrafted architectural stone and garden ornaments in Tunbridge Wells, have received a large, cuddly hippo from California. It was sent by US home insurance company MyHippo.com after a bronze hippo sculpture was stolen from Chilstone’s show garden near Langton Green in early January. News of the theft spread around the world, and staff were more than surprised to open a parcel containing a three-feet tall cuddly hippo. The hippo statue, weighing almost three-quarters of a tonne, has still not been found. It had been a feature in the garden for several years and staff nicknamed it Harry, after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced their engagement to the world’s press standing between four Chilstone Kensington Planters, making the planters famous overnight. The new Harry the Huggable Hippo has been sent to Pembury Hospital’s children’s ward to spread a little joy and comfort to young patients. Chilstone’s General Manger, Steve Clark, said “I am pleased that this unexpected gift can be passed on to local children so that some positivity can come from this appalling theft from our show gardens. Thank you to everyone who has offered us support and thank you the thoughtful Americans who have sent this cuddly hippo to us.” Speaking of the theft, Help Kent Police PC Nick Lingham said: “The hippo is extremely heavy and in the past it has taken five people to lift it. It is a hugely distinctive object and it is unlikely the offenders will find it that easy to sell on as scrap or to a collector. Because of its sheer size we are hoping people may have seen it being transported and also we are asking members of the public to keep their eyes open and report anything suspicious.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 10-0236. Alternatively, contact Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. Steve Clark said “This theft has been reported by the BBC, CNN and the national newspapers. We are grateful for the support and we would love to see Harry the Hippo returned to us. We want to continue to provide a platform for artists to display their talents, it’s so sad that someone would steal from our show gardens.”

Support the veterans Be one of 100 on RBLI’s Centenary Ride Royal British Legion Industries is calling on the people of Kent to be one of 100 cyclists to ride alongside injured veterans through the battlefields of the First World War in an emotive celebration of the charity’s 2019 centenary. Taking place between 12th and 14th July, the RBLI Centenary Ride will set off from the charity’s village in Aylesford and finish at Belgium’s Menin Gate war memorial in Ypres in time for the iconic Last Post, played as part of a solemn service of remembrance. RBLI was established in 1919 to support wounded servicemen on their return from the battlefields of the Somme, Ypres and Passchendaele. Today, it continues to work with former military personnel and people with disabilities by providing accommodation, care, support, training and employment. This year’s event comes after 30 people from across the county undertook the same journey in 2018, raising more than £25,000 for ex-servicemen and women through RBLI’s services. Steve Sherry CMG OBE, Chief Executive of RBLI, said: “Hundreds of thousands made the journey from Britain through mainland Europe during the Great War. Many did not return, and for those who did with physical and mental disabilities, the daily battles continued. “This year’s RBLI Centenary Ride, built on the great success of last year’s inaugural ride, is a unique opportunity to show our respect for those who served their country 100 years ago, those who returned with life-changing injuries and also those of more recent conflicts, many of whom still desperately require our support.” Every penny raised will go directly to helping former military personnel RBLI works with and will help build RBLI’s new Centenary Village at Aylesford. The riders will also be supporting RBLI’s employment support programme, LifeWorks, or supporting its social enterprise, Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company, where 70 per cent of staff are either veterans or individuals who have a physical or hidden disability. Falklands veteran Steve Hammond, who was severely injured during service and now works in BBMC, undertook the ride last year on a specially-adapted bike. The former Welsh Guard said: “Without doubt, it was one of the most emotional things I have ever done in my entire life.”

People can take part by raising a minimum of £750, or donating the same amount, which covers the cost of two nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation, one evening meal in a hotel or restaurant in Ypres, two lunches, the ferry crossing from Dover to Calais, and an accompanying medic. To sign-up to take part, simply contact penny.dyson@rbli.co.uk or visit www.rbli.co.uk/centenaryride

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New home for Tunbridge Wells Farmers Market Royal Victoria Place steps in to save the market from closure Improvements to Civic Way and a £13.2 million development plan to turn the town’s library and art gallery into a cultural and learning hub meant that the Farmers Market, a familiar sight at weekends outside the Town Hall for nearly 20 years, had to find a new home. British Land, owners of Royal Victoria Place (RVP), have stepped in and offered Market Square at RVP as the solution. Nicky Blanchard, Centre Manager of Royal Victoria Place, said, “We are delighted and very proud to welcome the Farmers Market to Market Square here at Royal Victoria Place. It is great to be supporting independent local traders by providing them with a location to showcase their produce. Local farmers markets will only continue to flourish with the support of local residents and the community so I urge all Tunbridge Wellians to come out and support them.” The market will now be run and managed by independent traders rather than by the Council, and will be known as The New Tunbridge Wells Independent Farmers Market. It will take place at its new location every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month between 9am and 4pm. Councillor Tracey Moore, commented, “When the stallholders let me know they wanted to explore the option of running a market themselves, I was able to help by organising a meeting and putting them in touch with Royal Victoria Place. The Council will do all it can to support the traders by promoting the venture through its communications channels. The market launches on Saturday, 9th March and I hope lots of shoppers, old and new supporters of the market, will be there to make this great initiative a success.” Visitors to the official launch party on 9th March will be able to enjoy hot food, music and lots of fresh produce. The new market will feature nearly 20 independent local traders, who will be selling locally-sourced and produced products from around the local area and across the Kent region. The market will be easily accessed on foot from Camden Road or Victoria Road, and can also be directly accessed by shoppers from Royal Victoria Place via the Food Court entrance into Market Square. Royal Victoria Place car park is also located just around the corner within an easy five-minute walk for those travelling by car.

LOV E G OI NG OU T

Out and about with Kudos

Painter’s Beach Club

Turn the page to find out about artist Nigel Cooke’s exhibition at the Jerwood Gallery in Hastings...

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Life’s a beach Acclaimed artist Nigel Cooke at Hastings’ Jerwood Gallery Until 24th March, you can catch previously unseen and new works by critically-acclaimed artist Nigel Cooke in the Painter’s Beach Club exhibition at Jerwood Gallery, Hastings. The Jerwood Gallery show is something of a homecoming for Cooke – who mixes music, the weather and memories of growing up in Manchester to create his work – as Hastings is where he first had his paintings shown as a professional artist. He says: “Coming back to Hastings after many adventures – in painting and the art world in general – to mount a show, has the feel of an odyssey. That’s the thing about painting; no matter how far you think you travel, you always end up back at the beginning.” He adds: “A lot of my work has the shoreline as its location and, because Jerwood Gallery is by the sea, I wanted to focus on this aspect. Like all of us straining to get to the beach when the sun is out, I like to set my paintings at a similar frontier, an idealistic background that the painting can react to.” Cooke will be showing works previously unseen in a public gallery in the UK, paintings that the New York Times described as combining ‘Magic Realist illusion, post-apocalyptic fantasy and extreme shifts of scale’.

Cooke’s paintings, frequently on monumental canvases measuring up to 6ft by 12ft, feature somewhat dystopian landscapes, peopled by a variety of oddball and yet recognisable characters. Each painting demands close inspection as, among the weeds, stones and rubble we discover graffitilike slogans, motifs and painterly references to his artistic heroes, such as Francis Bacon, Velazquez and Goya. Cooke likes to work at close range and at a distance, so it often seems like each painting contains many smaller ones within it. His work hangs in major collections around the world, including the Tate, New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the Guggenheim. Jerwood Gallery Director Liz Gilmore says: “It’s a great moment to be exhibiting one of Britain’s leading contemporary painters, Nigel Cooke, whose new body of work pushes the boundaries of painting practice today. This exhibition comes hot on the heels of Nigel’s hugely-successful debut in Hong Kong and it is a special opportunity for people locally and nationally to view and enjoy the work. With the beach featuring so heavily in Nigel’s latest work, the idea of the beach being a destination, a frontier for discovery, makes it even more appropriate that Nigel will be showing these works here, for the very first time, in Hastings.”

Something old... Vintage finds from fashion to homeware Lovers of vintage should head to the Tunbridge Wells Vintage Fair at King Charles Church Hall, Warwick Park, on 30th March. You’ll find 25 top-quality vintage traders from all over the South East, as well as from London. There will be true vintage fashion, including womenswear and menswear from the 1920s to the 1980s, accessories (handbags, hats and scarves) and costume jewellery. There will also be vintage homeware, such as mirrors, crockery, small furniture, glassware, textiles, and bespoke lampshades in retro fabric. A stall will be selling vintage original records, from The Beatles to Black Sabbath, and a Northern Soul DJ will be playing rare singles (surf music, Motown, Stax) all day. Entry is £1 (under 16s free), and the fair is open from 10.30am-4pm. @squirrelvintage 22

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A life less ordinary Film festival of extraordinary expeditions The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is celebrating its 10th year of touring the UK and Ireland, bringing over 100 adrenalinepacked shows to almost 60 venues – including Brighton Dome on 5th February and 1st April, Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells on 9th March and Gulbenkian Theatre in Canterbury on 13th April. The Tour features two different collections of brand-new films from the world’s most intrepid film-makers, starring pioneers and explorers tackling extraordinary expeditions in the wildest corners of the planet. Films in the World Tour are selected from hundreds entered into the Banff Mountain Film Festival, which takes place every November in Canada’s Rocky Mountains.

Film highlights include:

This Mountain Life: Martina and her 60-year-old mother Tania embark on an epic ski traverse from Vancouver to Alaska – six months and 2,300km of journeying though relentless mountain wilderness. This Mountain Life is a multi-award-winning film and a riveting portrait of the human passion for adventure, set high in the peaks of British Columbia, Canada. RJ Ripper: A mesmerising blend of mountain sports and culture as world-class mountain biker Rajesh (RJ) Magar explores his homeland of Nepal, from the chaotic streets of Kathmandu to the mind-blowing Himalayan mountains beyond. An inspirational story of perseverance with high-adrenaline riding in stunning scenery. For the Love of Mary: Try telling 97-year-old George Etzweiler you’re too old for running! He started competing in the annual 7.6 mile race up Mount Washington aged 69... and still takes part nearly 30 years later. And more important than his lucky green running shorts, George carries something special in every step: the memory of his late wife of 68 years, Mary. www.banff-uk.com

Photo Credit: Valentine Fabre, Dent du Géant © Ben Tibbetts

Works of art Exhibition with a difference captures an historic business An unusual venue in Tonbridge will be the location for an art exhibition taking place from 1st-15th March. Four artists will be showing a range of contemporary art at R Allen in Lyons Crescent. Local residents will know this address as the motor engineers run by Duncan Welch, whose family have owned the business for 71 years. The premises were used originally as a repairers for horse-drawn carriages from 1896-1938. Roy Allen then started the motor engineers, handing it over to the Welch family in 1947. As well as the main building, there are workshops and outbuildings used for storage where little has been thrown away over the years, and this has been the inspiration for the 4Art artists – machinery, tools, spare parts and paraphernalia reflecting the progress of the car through the decades. Duncan Welch is now heading for retirement and R Allen will cease trading at the end of March and the riverside site will be developed. The 4Art group – Sue Vass, Marilyn Garwood, Jill Goldsworthy and Margaret Barrett – have spent the past two years exploring this historic site. From the sketches and drawings they have made has emerged a wide range of contemporary art that will now be displayed just before the site is demolished. Paintings, drawings, prints and sculptures reflect the atmosphere and history of a remarkable business and buildings that have stood the test of time. They have named the exhibition Duncan’s Place. Meet the Artists: Friday 1st March from 6-8pm . The exhibition is open from 11am-4pm from 2nd-15th March. 4artkent.wordpress.com

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Happy anniversary, Peppa! Everyone’s favourite piggy celebrates 15 years with a new film and Muddy Puddle Walk This spring, Peppa Pig is celebrating its 15th anniversary in the UK and to mark the occasion there are a host of oink-tastic events for fans. They include a brand new cinema release, Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun, and the annual Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk for Save the Children, to raise funds that will help children around the world. Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun will be in cinemas from 5th April, perfectly timed to entertain the little ones ahead of the Easter holidays. This hour-long theatrical release offers 10 brand new and never-before-broadcast episodes, featuring a two-part festival special, complete with new characters and locations. The release continues the successful My First Cinema Experience format which offers young children a gentle introduction to the cinema. Little piggies can look forward to one whole hour of snorts and giggles with songs to sing along to and dances and movements to join in with, making it the perfect cinema outing for pre-schoolers and all the family to enjoy. Continuing the anniversary celebrations will be Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk for Save the Children. Last year families and nurseries that took part in the event helped to raise an incredible £225,000 for Save the Children’s vital work, and since its launch in 2017, the event has generated a fundraising total of almost half a million pounds. Kicking off on 13th May for a week of super fun fundraising, children (and adults too!) can pull on their wellies and set off to jump in muddy puddles – real or imaginary. Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk for Save the Children is a brilliant way to have fun together and enjoy 15 years of Peppa Pig, whilst raising funds to help make sure that children in the world’s toughest places get food and medicine if they’re hungry or sick, are protected from danger and get the chance to learn. Sign up your nursery or family now for Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk for Save the Children at www.MuddyPuddleWalk.org to receive your free Fundraising Pack.

Vegan living Bigger and tastier than ever, VegFest 2019 launches in Brighton After launching 10 years ago in Brighton, VegFest UK is returning to the Brighton Centre on 23rd-24th March to kick off the first of their UK dates, bigger, bolder and more delicious than ever. One of Europe’s leading food, health and lifestyle events, Vegfest UK has become synonymous with the very best in vegan living. This year’s festival offers 230 stalls with the best in ethical lifestyle products, live cookery demonstrations, a compassionate art exhibition, kids’ area and live music. New features include a Yoga and Wellness Zone run by community group, Yogific, radical veganism lectures and the Animal Think Tank, hosted by prominent campaigners on the subject of animal justice. Always at the helm of the newest vegan cuisine, the festival is also adding to their international offering of plant-based delicacies in the Food Village with the dirty vegan junk food of Feral Food Store, complete with Southern Fried Seitan Burgers and Smoked Tofu Rinds, Plantain Vegan Patties and Jerk Soya from Brownins, Simply Vegan’s Tofish & Chips and Fake & Kidme Pies, along with fragrant Indian street food delights from Simply Veg. www.brighton.veg fest.co.uk

Quiz and drama Fun events at Beacon Academy Beacon Academy Performing Arts department is staging a whole-school production of Aladdin JR, a magically updated version of the Academy Award-winning Disney musical and spectacular West End show. This new adaptation of the classic story will open up ‘a whole new world’ for audiences of all ages and will showcase Beacon’s talented students’ abilities in Drama, Music, Dance and Set Design. Performances are at 6.30pm on 12th and 13th March. Email events@beacon-academy.org to purchase tickets at £5 each. Licensed bar and interval refreshments. Why not grab a team and join the Beacon Academy Quiz Night at 7pm on 22nd March for fun, interactive rounds and brainteasers from ace Quiz Master, Reg Sansbury! Tickets £5 a head or book your table for £30 (maximum 8 people) All proceeds go directly to the school. Email events@beacon-academy.org Both events are in the Beeches Main Hall at the Beacon Academy in Crowborough. www.beacon-academy.org 26

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In loving memory Antiques fair to raise money for Hospice in the Weald

A charity Antique Fair has been organised at Skinners School in Tunbridge Wells on 28th April to raise money for Hospice in the Weald. Organiser Claire O’Neil says that every penny raised from stallholder fees, entrance fees and refreshments (which are being donated/sponsored by Fuggles Beer Café) will go to the charity, in memory of her grandfather. Says Claire, “I am doing this because, sadly, my grandfather died at the Hospice last year, and before he died, he promised the nurses there that he would run a fair for them to raise money as a thank you for their care. I knew that he would be unable to do this, but I decided that I would do it for him so that he kept his promise, as he was a man of his word. “Grandad was such a kind man, he’d do anything for anyone. He was always very well and kept busy, until the last year of his life. My mum, auntie, grandma and I cared for him at home for most of that year but it was difficult as he had a lot of health problems. “When Grandad was first referred to the Hospice, he thought it meant losing hope. I had to sit down and explain to him, ‘Grandad, you aren’t going to get better, but the Hospice will help you live as you want to, and to be as well as you can. We need their help.’ “He was worried about going to the Hospice at first, but he always had my grandmother with him, which helped. They met in London at the age of 18 and her staying close to him helped him overcome his worries. And once he was there, he loved it! He was so enthusiastic and complimentary about all of the care he received. “Grandad’s time at the Hospice was obviously very emotional, but it was much easier on my family than the earlier stages of his illness. We knew we didn’t want him to go into a care home or into hospital, and we stayed at the Hospice in the family room so we could be close to him. I slept by his side each night for the last week of his life. We just wouldn’t have been able to do that in a hospital. “I wrote a letter to Grandad which I read to him during that last week, whilst he was unresponsive, and again at his funeral. It was incredibly emotional, and difficult, but he was such an amazing person that I wanted to do him justice and for people to understand what a wonderful person he was. It was a privilege to be his granddaughter. He was an antique dealer, and silverware was his passion. Antiques were his life, although he started off as a dustbin man and worked his way into the industry by selling postcards in Charing Cross. That’s why I’m organising an antique fair in his memory. “Losing your loved one is the worst time of your life, undoubtedly. But this gives me something positive to focus on. I’m doing exactly what he would have done. The Hospice helped us so much, we’ll do anything to support them. Without them, we wouldn’t have been able to cope. “For me, part of the support from the Hospice has been how easy taking up counselling has been. I didn’t have to go out and look for it, the support was offered. We are a very close family but it’s different now Grandad has gone. Knowing the Hospice is still there for us makes a big difference.”

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Diary dates It’s beds and pies for the month of March National Bed Month Throughout March it’s National Bed Month – time for a lie-in before learning about the importance of a good night’s sleep! Organised by The Sleep Council, the month aims to remind us all why a sound sleep is good for our health. Forget the old saying that if “You snooze, you lose”. It’s thought that a good sleep has amazing properties that make you healthier and happier, and can even add years to your life! Check out the Sleep Council website to find out the essentials you need to have the perfect sleep. The right bed should be your number one priority – a study found that by switching an uncomfortable old bed to a lovely new one meant an extra 42 minutes of sleep! You can put your own bed through an MOT at the site and find out if it’s time to change. www.sleepcouncil.org.uk British Pie Week: 4th March As a fully-fledged nation of pie lovers, it’s a great way of getting all of the family involved in some cooking. With so many great recipes available it just falls to you to decide what kind of a pie lover you are – whether it’s a savoury pie, a dessert pie, a crumble, a pasty or even a pizza pie. Now if you’re as passionate about your food as we are, you won’t be surprised to hear that we’ve been scouring the web, all in the name of research, in order to find Britain’s favourite pies to help us to decide the menu for British Pie Week.

Based on our research, here’s the top 10 pies... 1: Cottage Pie 2: Fish Pie 3: Shepherd’s Pie 4: Chicken and Leek Pie 5: Chicken and Mushroom Pie 6: Steak and Ale Pie 7: Meat and Potato Pie 8: Pork Pie 9: Steak and Kidney Pie 10: Corned Beef Pie

Happy British Pie Week!

Why not make one of our favourites, Bannoffee Pie. Here’s how... Ingredients 100g unsalted butter 300g dark chocolate digestive biscuits, crushed 1 x 397g tin Carnation caramel 200ml double cream 1 tbsp milk 1 tbsp icing sugar 3 ripe bananas 25g dark chocolate, for decorating Method 1. M elt the butter in a large saucepan, then stir in the crushed biscuits until they are completely mixed. Press firmly into the base and sides of a round 20cm loose-bottomed tart tin. Chill for 1 hour or until very firm. 2. R emove the pie case from the tin. Spoon the caramel into the case and smooth the top. Put the cream, milk and sugar into a large bowl and beat with an electric whisk until thickened but not stiff. 3. Slice the bananas over the caramel, then top with the cream. Decorate with a little grated chocolate scattered over. 30

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LOV E G OI NG OU T

Musical extravaganza LAMPS to stage the all-singing, all-dancing Musicality: Take 2 In October 2017, LAMPS (Local Amateur Musical Players) celebrated 90 years by staging Musicality, a musical theatre compilation show that took audiences on a toe-tapping trip down memory lane. LAMPS looked at all the shows they had performed over the past 90 years and selected the highlights to form what became an incredible show. The audience feedback was phenomenal and, to cement the success of the show even further, Musicality was awarded an Accolade of Excellence from NODA (National Operatic and Dramatic Association) in 2017. This was the icing on the cake for the cast and creative team that had worked hard to bring the show to life. So it seemed only right to do it all again! Musicality: Take 2 will be coming to the EM Forster Theatre in Tonbridge from the 10th-13th April. Over the years, a great number of stage musicals have been adapted for the movies, and vice-versa. Musicality: Take 2 will be bringing many of them in one all-singing all-dancing extravaganza of a show! It will be a tribute to musicals and musical movies, and will feature numbers from The Phantom of the Opera, Moulin Rouge, Footloose, Dirty Dancing, Les Miserables, The Witches of Eastwick, Little Shop of Horrors, and from the new films Bohemian Rhapsody and The Greatest Showman. So, what are you waiting for? www.lamps.org.uk

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Challenge yourself Sign up for a Spartan event and put your fitness to the test Registrations are now open for the Spartan UK and Ireland race season. The obstacle-course events, which are organised by Spartan Race, the world’s leading obstacle course race and endurance brand, are taking place in six different locations across the UK and Ireland between May and October, including the opening race of the season at the St Clere Estate in Kemsing, Sevenoaks, on 4th and 5th May. This is the third time a Spartan event has been held at St Clere, and the race is perfect for anyone with a sense of adventure or seeking a new

challenge. There are open heats to cater for racers of all fitness and abilities, and two race options to choose from: Sprint and Super, as well as a race for kids. Spartan are also offering 20 per cent off South East Weekend Open Heats from now until race day with the discount code SOUTHEAST19. The adrenaline will be pumping as racers travel through beautiful forests, across stunning landscapes and look to conquer obstacles such as the Spear Throw, Inverted Wall, Monkey Bars and Barbed Wire Crawl. This year, there is a total prize pot of £17,600 up for grabs, which includes £3,000 for the overall male and female series winners and £600 for the winners of the individual series races, so competition looks like it will be fiercer than ever. www.spartanrace.uk/en

Sick childen in the frame Demelza Kids’ London exhibition shines the spotlight on local hospice Demelza Kids, a new collection of photographs of children cared for by Demelza Hospice Care for Children, taken by internationally-acclaimed photographer Juergen Teller, will go on display at Bonhams New Bond Street, London, from 10th-16th April. The exhibition is a visual story of the children cared for by Demelza at its centres in Kent and South East London. The aim of the exhibition is to raise awareness of the charity, which provides specialist care and emotional support for hundreds of children with terminal conditions and their families. In 2018, Demelza invited Teller to visit its hospices in Sittingbourne and Eltham and document its crucial, life-enhancing work with local babies, children and young people who have terminal conditions and are in need of support. Teller made multiple trips to the hospices and dedicated much of his personal time in getting to know the children and their families, sometimes visiting them at their homes if they were unable to travel. Initially taking his professional SLR camera, Teller quickly swapped to his lessintrusive mobile phone so that he could integrate himself into the hospices as sensitively as possible. He says of Demelza Kids: “I approached this project as I do with any other: the same respect, directness and honesty – how I truly felt it should be done – the way I might photograph a portrait of a friend, a celebrity, a landscape scene or my own children. I photographed the children as honestly as I could without shying away from the brutal truth of what I was confronting.” “What struck me most was the overwhelmingly warm response from the parents and how thankful they were. To see and feel the parents’ pure love, patience, care and the challenges they face was the most amazing and touching experience. Working with Demelza has moved me deeply.” Ryan Campbell CBE, Chief Executive of Demelza, said: “Demelza provides hospice care for children with terminal conditions, but there is so much more involved with what we do than those words convey – our work is about life, not death. The images in Demelza Kids convey it much better. There is more joy, laughter and fun than there is sadness. Children are children; the children we have the privilege to work with are amazing and inspiring, and that is why we have partnered with Juergen Teller. These families want to be seen, not hidden away and pitied. 32

“We are hugely grateful to Juergen for bringing his kindness and integrity to the project and using his unique skills to create awareness amongst a whole new and powerful group of potential supporters, which will enable us to help many more children and families make the most of their often limited but incredibly special time together.” Ralph Taylor, Bonhams’ Global Head of Post-War and Contemporary Art, said: “Juergen Teller is one of the most influential and relevant photographers today. It is an honour to have his new work on show at Bonhams, especially as it highlights the work of such an extraordinary charity. These are images that will long live on in the mind.” Demelza is in the process of establishing a ground-breaking project that aims to provide a service that allows children to die in their own homes. Despite being regularly offered in adult palliative care, this option is frequently denied to children and young people due to the level of clinical support and equipment often required. Many children and young people would choose to die in the familiar comfort of their own home. Demelza is currently fundraising to become pioneers in this area and offer this service to children in Kent and South East London. K U D O S M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 1 9

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Colourful events at Hever Our pick of events at Hever Castle this March and April Dazzling Daffodils: 20th-24th March Feel uplifted this spring during Hever Castle’s Dazzling Daffodils event. With 14,000 daffodil bulbs set to bloom across the gardens, there will be a wide range of varieties to enjoy. The gates to Park Wood, part of the Hever Castle estate, will be open for visitors to discover a rare double daffodil, and there will be daffodil tours of the estate, including Anne Boleyn’s spectacular Orchard, which has some of the oldest daffodils on the estate. Mother’s Day Weekend: 30th-31st March Spoil mum on Mother’s Day weekend with a memorable family day out and decadent afternoon tea. Children can take part in a free workshop to make a bookmark or decorate a cupcake for an additional charge. Face painting will also be available. Easter: 6th-22nd April Family fun at Hever Castle & Gardens throughout the Easter holidays promises to put a spring in your step. Hunt for colourful carrots around the grounds in a fun, free Easter trail or spot the bunnies in the Castle. Celebrate spring by making and decorating an Easter bonnet at daily craft workshops for a small, additional charge, with a chance to show off your creations in a parade in front of the Castle every day, with prizes for the best bonnets. Children can also have their faces painted for a small, additional charge. Tulip Celebrations: 24th-30th April Be uplifted by 20,000 tulip bulbs proudly standing to attention and providing a visual feast of spring colour. Free daily tours with the gardeners can be enjoyed during the week, as well as tulip floral arrangements in the Castle. www.hevercastle.co.uk

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LOV E E AST ER

Easter parade Eggs are traditional, but here are some fun gifts to give this Easter

Chococo’s new Ruby Chocolate Egg is naturally pink with a refreshing raspberry fruit taste. £18.50 www.chococo.co.uk

I Love Easter card. £3.85 www.papier.com

Rabbit Chair by Stefano Giovannoni. £179 www.smithersofstamford.com 36

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Easter Egg Hunt arrow sign. £7.50 www.tch.net

Personalised, printed on demand and eco-friendly vinyl wall mural. From £29 www.pixers.uk

Country Folk natural wood bunny decorations. £2 each www.giselagraham.co.uk

Resin bunny-on-carrot ornament. £13.50 www.giselagraham.co.uk

Set of four felt pastel Easter bunny decorations. £25 www.tch.net

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L OV E FA S H ION

Lilac time

Sugary pastels are back for summer, with sweet lilac in the lead. Wear it on its own, team it with washed denim for subtle toning, or black and grey for contrast. Whichever you choose, purple will reign

Ambra layered circle statement necklace £29.50 www.oliverbonas.com

Cami top, £189, and jacket, £445, both from www.luisacerano.com Paisley Shirt Style code: LW-N86 (available from 22nd March) www.purecollection.com

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L OV E FA S H ION

Textured jacquard blazer, £189.95, and handmade Spanish slingback heels, £119.95, both from www.madeleine.co.uk

Musckle diamond geo print cotton shirt £65 www.tedbaker.com

Lilac and white striped crewneck sweater £20 www.next.co.uk

For your little ones...

Mouse smocked dress with Peter Pan collar £23 www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk K U D O S M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Crewneck rainbow sweater, from £9; long-sleeve linen-mix gingham shirt, from £11; bunny dungarees and bodysuit set, from £17 www.next.co.uk 39

L OV E FA S H ION

Pure style

Our pick of Pure Collection’s spring season, which will be available in their Tunbridge Wells store from 22nd March With 15 years’ experience sourcing cashmere that’s sustainable, superb quality and fairly priced, Pure Collection have crafted sweaters in a range of weights and textures, giving you the choice of lightweight layers that will see you through every season. Their summer collection introduces sumptuous silks in beautiful prints and amazing shapes, along with lightweight linens and an array of vibrant colours and styles of cashmere. Creating ideal outfits for those warm days, whether you want the perfect, soft, lightweight cover-up on the beach or relaxed glamour for evening drinks by the sea, has never been easier. So give in to temptation and get summer ready.

Laundered Linen Sleeveless Top Style code: LW-S20

Silk Front Print Top Style code: LW-R98

Silk Front Print Dress Style code: LW-S01

Laundered Linen Pintuck Beach Dress Style code: LW-R91

Cashmere Lofty Sweatshirt Style code: LK-Y78

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L OV E FA S H ION

Textured Cotton T-Shirt Style code: LK-AT5

One Button Cardigan Style code: LK-AU1

Broderie Anglaise Dress Style code: LW-S10

LOV E CEL EBR I T Y

Passing on the laughs Stand-up comedian Lucy Porter is a huge hit with audiences across the UK thanks to her distinctive, feel-good comedy. Ahead of her latest show, Pass it on, at Tunbridge Wells’ Trinity Theatre in April, she spoke to Kudos about family life, the writing process and the stand-up sisterhood…

Lucy Porter is a stand-up natural. She may be small in stature, but she’s been big on the UK comedy scene for nearly 20 years. The 46-year-old, South London mum-of-two cut her comedy teeth as a writer on Caroline Aherne’s The Mrs Merton Show and has gone on to make her stand-up mark with her own brand of warm, feel-good humour. She’s been a regular face on TV programmes such as Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo and Have I Got News for You, as well as BBC Radio 4’s News Quiz, The Now Show and The Unbelievable Truth. But stand-up is her first love, as she explains…

Tell us about Pass it on. What can audiences expect?

It’s a show all about what we inherit from our parents and what we pass on to our children – everything from bad eyesight and weak knees to glass clowns and global warming.

What’s the writing process. How do you start and how long does it take to write a show like Pass it on?

I’m writing all the time, even right now! The beauty of stand-up is that it’s constantly changing and evolving. I basically wrote this show last year and performed it at the Edinburgh Festival, so most of it is the same every night, but I always put in something new – possibly because of something in the news, or someone in the front row might be wearing a brooch that I particularly admire.

Where do you get your ideas from?

This show has a lot of stuff about my family, so they are the core inspiration. Loads of other random things creep in, though, whatever is interesting to me at the time, so there’s also some stuff about cats and an extended tribute to George Michael.

What’s your on-stage persona like compared to the real you?

I’m much taller on stage than I am in real life. 42

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You’re married to a comedian. How does that work? Are you competitive?

My husband Justin is now an actor. He used to do a lot of comedy but lately he’s mostly been playing murderers on screen and stage, so we’re not really in competition.

Do you try out ideas on him?

I write a lot of material about Justin, so rather than trying it out on him, I have to make sure he never sees it. Luckily when I’m on stage he’s always looking after the children, so I’ve got away with it thus far.

Is it a laugh-a-minute household?

Yes, but that’s down to our children rather than their parents.

You’ve got two children. Do they find you funny?

They’re usually laughing at me rather than with me. Justin and I are quite good at making up songs with the word ‘poo’ in the lyrics, though, so that’s a guaranteed way to raise a laugh. I’ve played to less sophisticated audiences in my time.

How do you combine work with motherhood? You’re on the road quite a bit…

I generally only do gigs I can get back from on the night. Although I do sometimes treat myself to a night in a hotel. I often get back late, get up and take the kids to school in the morning, then go back to bed. It feels very decadent but I love it.

When did you realise you could make people laugh?

When I was about eight and my mum and dad made me do impressions of Dave Allen. I think they were really laughing at the sight of an eight-year-old girl holding a glass of whiskey and a cigarette and talking about nuns.

And when did you decide you wanted to do stand-up?

I always loved stand-up but I didn’t decide I wanted to do it until I was living in Manchester in the late 1990s. There was a terrific comedy scene there, people like Peter Kay and Johnny Vegas were just starting out, and it felt like an exciting time.

How did you get started?

I did a show in a jazz bar called Alexanders in Chester. I missed my train home and had to walk around Chester all night.

And what was your first experience of stand-up like? Scary, but thrilling.

Is it true you put the cost of your first onewoman show at your first Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2001 on your credit card?

Yes, the thought of the debt was even more terrifying than doing stand-up. K U D O S M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 1 9

LOV E CEL EBR I T Y

Was there a moment when you thought, “I’ve made it”?

I did a Channel 4 show called Gas, and one of my friends from school got in touch to say she’d seen me and was really impressed. A couple of people from my mum and dad’s church also saw it, but they were less complimentary!

Do you still get nervous before a show?

No. I’m too tired to be nervous these days.

What’s been your worst experience on stage?

I had a pretty shocking show in Maidstone in Kent when I was starting out. I talk about it in this show; it involves the audience singing to me, but that’s all I’ll give away.

And the best?

Probably playing Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas, just for the bragging rights.

As well as stand-up, you do quite a lot of Radio 4 programmes. You’ve also worked in TV. Which is your favourite medium? Live stand-up is my favourite, but I do also love radio.

Female stand-up is thriving. Is there a sisterhood amongst you? Do you have best stand-up friends?

Yes, it’s great! When I started doing comedy I was always the only woman on the bill. If you’d forgotten your make-up bag, there was never anyone to borrow concealer or lip gloss from. I probably see Aussie comic Sarah Kendall most out of the other stand-up women.

Who are your comedy heroes?

Dave Allen, Victoria Wood, Caroline Aherne.

What would be your dream comedy job? Doing a tour of vineyards or cheese makers.

Lucy Porter’s show Pass it on is at Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells, on 26th April. www.trinitytheatre.net 44

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LOV E FOOD & DR I N K

Eating out Looking for somewhere to enjoy a memorable meal? Here are a few of our favourite local foodie places

Food at its finest

Expect a meal to remember at The Kentish Hare Situated in the postcard-worthy Kent countryside in the village of Bidborough, the award-winning Kentish Hare captures the spirit of a traditional English pub, delivering high-quality food in a stylish setting. Visitors can relax in the gastropub’s tasteful, cosy surroundings or soak up the sunshine and enjoy the picturesque backdrop of its outdoor terrace and garden. All food is cooked to order, with the expert chefs utilising the best ingredients, sourced directly from local suppliers. From traditional favourites and light bites to hearty Sunday lunches, visitors to The Kentish Hare can choose from a menu that celebrates seasonal flavours. Choose from the likes of succulent pork belly with caramelised apple, perfectly pan-fried salmon with hollandaise sauce and braised fennel, and flavoursome steaks – there is truly something to satisfy all tastebuds. For dessert-lovers, there is a variety of indulgent sweet treats available, including chocolate fondant and the classic Crème Brûlée. Complementing the bill of fare is an extensive range of wine, beer, cocktails and spirits. With celebrity brothers Chris and James Tanner heading up The Kentish Hare’s kitchen, visitors are guaranteed a memorable culinary experience. The gastropub’s reputation for high-quality food and great service has earned it a national reputation. This includes securing 2 AA Rosettes and a coveted listing in The Michelin Guide, as well as being named Best Newcomer of the Year in the 2016 Gastropubs Awards. And they are again in the Top 50 Gastro Pubs this year. Tel. 01892 525709 www.thekentishhare.com K U D O S M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 1 9

LOV E FOOD & DR I N K

Smoked to perfection Give your summer eating a delicious twist with the Weald Smokery’s selection of smoked meats and fish – and lots more

Food for thought Misfits (and everyone else) are most welcome at The Bell in Ticehurst There is a Jack Kerouac quote beautifully sign written on the wall on one of the gents’ loos at The Bell in Ticehurst which neatly defines what they are about. “Here's to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels. The troublemakers. The problem child. The round pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differently. “They’re not fond of rules and they have no respect for the status quo.” This is kind of what happens in the creative kitchen under head chef Oscar Fonesca. He describes the food offered up as “a combination of trips, experiences and memories from a team passionate about food”. The essential essence is local, fresh food enriched with ingredients from around the world. The results are plates which are, at first glance, maybe familiarly British but with a whole new level of taste. Enjoy cosmopolitan cuisine in the truest sense of the word in a little corner of East Sussex. This fusion of culture fits well at The Bell. Instantly comfortable and welcoming, this inn of high ambition is anything but usual. With masterpieces on the walls, original bowler hats for lights, and taxidermy in the most unexpected places, not to mention French horn gentlemens’ urinals, there is a conversation piece at every turn. And now the food is the thing to get the locals’ tongues wagging and foodies from towns and cities beating a pathway to The Bell’s generous doors. The Bell also hosts a diverse calendar of cultural events including world-class comedy and jazz, talks and debates, quiz nights and charity fundraisers – in short, something for everyone from near or far. With seven thoughtful rooms above the pub, a Love Nest and three extraordinary hobbit-like lodges around a central fire pit in the garden, you may never want to leave. All of this with local ales on tap and attentive staff that make any visit memorable. The Bell – changing the world a little bit in East Sussex. See what’s happening at www.thebellinticehurst.com or call 01580 200300 to book your table. 48

With the weather warming up, you’re probably thinking about al-fresco entertaining – particularly as Easter is a bit later this year. With spring comes a lighter menu and The Weald Smokery, tucked away on the Flimwell-Hawkhurst road, is the perfect place to stock up on ingredients. Smoked salmon is always a winner for party food (and theirs is award-winning and smoked right on the premises, no less!), or how about some smoked chicken or duck – great for light salad dishes. And make sure to come hungry because their ‘try before you buy’ restaurant is the perfect opportunity to sample some of their delicacies, as everything that is used in the kitchen can be bought in their shop. The menu includes tasty dishes like Smoked Kipper Fillet & Scrambled Eggs; Avocado, Poached Egg and Crispy Bacon; Baked Goats Cheese with Honey and Walnuts; Smoked Chicken Flatbread with a Yoghurt and Mint Dressing; Smoked Duck Hoisin in a Beetroot Wrap; Hot Roast Salmon Jacket Potato and Smoked Haddock with Crushed New Potatoes. There is also a children’s menu which includes even the simplest of beans on toast to satisfy the fussiest of little eaters, plus a selection of homemade cakes, scones and gluten free brownies. When the sun is out, their fantastic terrace is ideal if you want to enjoy your food outside. They also have some great gift ideas in the shop, so make it your stop for Mother’s Day and Easter presents, too! Mount Farm, The Mount, Flimwell TN5 7QL Tel. 01580 879601 www.wealdsmokery.co.uk

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Having kittens June Willison and Barry Monk turned an unloved 1980s conversion into a charming, family-friendly cottage in the countryside

Homeowners June Willison, a vintage and antiques dealer, and Barry Monk, a marketing consultant, live here with their daughter Louisa, 21, and tabby cat Summer. The couple also have two grown-up children who have left home Property A three-bedroom, semi-detached Victorian property converted, together with its neighbour, from three cottages in the 1980s Location Crouch, near Sevenoaks in Kent Essential repairs The house was in reasonable condition, so the work undertaken was about adding character and making the space work for them Layout The couple replanned the ground floor to improve the flow and added storage and a new bathroom upstairs Words: Katie Treggiden Photography: Bruce Hemming

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Moving house is often so stressful that the expression ‘having kittens’ might be appropriate. For June Willison and partner Barry Monk, it wasn’t just a metaphor. Their cat, Summer, had given birth to a litter just a few weeks before the move, so they moved house with two children, two cats and four kittens. “The first thing we did was make sure Summer and her little family were safe and secure in the summer house,” says June. Then they set about moving in and renovating their new home. The house was in good shape structurally. It had been converted, together with the house next door, from three tiny cottages in the 1980s, so the project was about making the space work for their growing family. “The house lacked character, felt dated and the rooms didn’t flow well,” says June, “but I knew it had potential.” The biggest job was redesigning the ground floor. They swapped the kitchen and breakfast room to create a more family-friendly, eat-in kitchen, fitting an L-shaped run of units and appliances. “Luckily my brother had a kitchen company, which was great as he already knew our taste,” she says. K U D O S M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 1 9

The couple set up a temporary kitchen in the living room while the work was being done. “It was challenging with builders, plumbers and electricians all vying for space – there was just so much mess,” laughs June. “But it was all worth it, because the kitchen is now our most used space – homework, sewing, socialising and cooking all happen in there – it is definitely my favourite room.” The next job was to return some of the character to the period property. Previous owners had removed the fireplace, so the couple added a chimney breast where it would have been, lining it with reclaimed French bricks. They use the space to store logs for the wood burner next door, and the newly-created alcoves to display June’s collection of vintage enamelware and spongeware. “We moved into a fairly characterless home and systematically went through giving it our own style,” says June, who says her eye for a bargain and sense of style have been honed through years of redesigning previous homes. The living room presented more of a challenge. “Although there was a wood burner, it was off-centre, making the room look 51

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unbalanced,” says June. “By centring the wood burner and building a chimney breast around it, we added a focal point – in the right place!” An oak beam and wooden mantel added interest. Usefully, the couple’s neighbour is a builder. “He cheerfully plastered both chimney breasts with a rough finish,” she says. “We asked him not to plaster too evenly and to keep the corners rounded to achieve a more cottage-like feel.” The couple replaced the downstairs carpet with engineered oak boards, visually connecting the ground floor. “I think this was one of the best things we did,” says June. “Oak is very forgiving, so it is perfect for children and pets.” They replaced the internal doors with stripped pine half-glazed doors, and installed double doors between the kitchen and living room. “We had used half-glazed doors in a previous house and liked the way they increased the feeling of light and space,” June explains. They commissioned a local joiner to build fitted cupboards,

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combining shelving and hanging space, in the master bedroom, with chicken-wire fronts lined with ivory muslin. “The joiner was somewhat bemused by the chicken wire,” laughs June. “But he did agree it looked nice when it was finished.” The couple painted the cupboards and the room itself, creating one ‘finished’ space into which they could retreat from the renovations downstairs. The whole house was decorated in a muted colour palette of offwhites, greys and blues. “We wanted to keep it light and airy,” says June, who was inspired by rustic French interiors and the changing seasons evident all round the cottage. “It is surrounded by breathtaking countryside, so we wanted to create the feeling of being at one with nature. Often one piece of soft furnishing gave us the starting point for a room’s whole scheme.” June says she and Barry decided on the interior ideas together. “Then I tended to source the individual pieces to fit the scheme – and Barry tended to like them!” she smiles.

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Once the internal work was done, their thoughts turned to the outside space. “Redesigning the garden was the part of the project I enjoyed most,” says June. “It had a confusing layout with lots of paths, a large pond and exotic planting. We simplified it into a pretty country garden with a central lawn. It was a real labour of love.” A summerhouse, originally conceived as a playhouse for youngest daughter Louisa, now serves as a base for June’s business. “I paint furniture and restore vintage pieces for sale,” she explains. “The summerhouse is also a lovely, quiet, tranquil spot for a glass of wine. We love the garden, it has real country charm.” Almost 10 years on from the original renovations, the couple finally got the bathroom they had always wanted. Overlooking farmland, it was one of the bedrooms of the original cottages. “The size seemed indulgent,” says June. “We thought about dividing it to create a separate shower room but in the end we decided we liked having one large bathroom.” Adding a new sink with integrated cupboard created extra storage, while the tongue-and-groove panelling added character. With their youngest daughter about to head off to university, the couple already have their eye on their next move. “We have done what we set out to do, which was to create a family-friendly cottage. We have all really enjoyed living here, but we will probably move on to the next project soon,” she says. Hopefully this time, there won’t be anybody having kittens, either real or metaphorical.

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Home notes

News and style tips on the home front

Celebrating 150 years

Hamptons International plans a programme of events to commemorate the milestone Leading estate agent Hamptons International is celebrating its 150th birthday this year, and to commemorate this exciting milestone, they have arranged a variety of events and campaigns. The company started life in 1869 with an office in London’s Pall Mall, eight members of staff, and George Hampton as the Managing Director. Fast forward 150 years and Hamptons International now has a network of over 90 offices in London and the South of the UK employing over 1,000 members of staff. Outside of the UK, Hamptons International is represented in over 30 countries around the world, providing buyers with access to over 100,000 international properties. Celebrations to mark the 150th birthday will run throughout the year, and started in January, with each staff member being gifted their birthday off in 2019. January also saw the return of the Hamptons International branded taxis, with a fleet of 15 taking to the streets for the entire year. And for clients, the 150th property of the year to be sold or let will be done so for free. Hamptons has also committed to make 2019 its biggest year of fundraising yet, and in support of the businesses ongoing commitment to charity partner Cancer Research UK, they have introduced “Challenge 150”, an internal initiative whereby each member of the business has pledged to raise £150 to collectively raise in excess of £150,000 for CRUK by the year end. Finally, as an extra addition to what is already set to be a bonanza of a year, Hamptons International will be unveiling “Project Planet” later in 2019. This will focus on making the business more environmentally-conscious by taking a look at overall consumption and ways to make a positive contribution to the planet.

Lesley Cairns, Managing Director of Hamptons International says: “We could not be more thrilled to have reached this exciting milestone of 150 years. Vision and purpose, along with the efforts of our fantastic people, make Hamptons International the commercially successful and brilliant business it is today. This is set to be a wonderful year for the entire business and we look forward to celebrating with our many customers past and present, too.”

Material gain Designer-fabric dealer in a bid to reduce waste Haines Collection, which launched late last year in Tunbridge Wells, offers designer fabric remnants that would previously have been thrown away, for a fraction of the retail price. The brainchild of Jules Haines, the Haines Collection acts as a broker between designers who want to sell small volumes of fabric but don’t have the time, and buyers who are looking for something unique but don’t have a big budget. Jules’ deep love of textiles started as a child: “My Granny’s drawer of fabric remnants was a treasure trove in my eyes. I’d spend days sewing bits for my teddies or making presents for people on her old Singer sewing machine. I once made my school teacher a pair of slippers!” Selling exclusively online, Jules offers high-end designer fabrics which may be leftover from large-scale building projects, be off-cuts or end of rolls, or be slightly misprinted. Haines Collection’s recycling ethos is very important to Jules. Government statistics show that the UK generates around 202.8 million tonnes of waste each year. Of that, the construction industry, which includes interiors, fittings and fixtures, a ccounts for 59 per cent. “I can’t bear waste and while I love cheap and cheerful interiors products as much as the next person, we all know they don’t stand the test of time. It upsets me when I hear that fashion giants are purposely destroying millions of pounds of stock to protect their image. The world is bursting with waste and I’m glad people are becoming more aware and voicing concerns about wasteful practices,” says Jules. 58

“We have come a long way to reducing waste in the building industry. The reuse rate for non-hazardous building material is 90 per cent: it’s not right that unused fabric is thrown away when it still has plenty of life. I know from personal experience how invaluable it is to get access to reduced-cost, quality building materials when you’re working on a renovation project. My hope is that Haines Collection offers a lifeline to both manufactures and the general public.” www.hainescollection.co.uk

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Style your home Tassels and fringing were a prominent fashion feature on the Autumn/Winter 2018 catwalks and this retro look is now making its way into our homes. The look can be introduced on lights, mirrors, furniture, cushions and other accessories. It’s a great way to add some fun and texture to sleek, minimalist spaces. And if you’re concerned about the naff factor and reminders of your granny’s house, then rest assured that this time around the look is more chic boutique than old-fashioned 1970s. Here are a few key ways to introduce the new fringing style to your home...

Top: Velvet cushion cover with fringing, available in blue or lilac, £39.95 www.audenza.com Above, left to right: Nappa table lamp, £115 www.oliverbonas.com Dori macramé wall hanging, £58.99 www.iansnow.com Tassel easy-fit shade, £69.99 www.very.co.uk

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Clockwise from top left: Unity cane mirror, £145 www.oliverbonas.com Isaac fringed armchair, £599, and Oxford fringed ottoman, £252, both from www.sweetpeaandwillow.com Pink fringe duvet cover set, from £55 www.very.co.uk Tallulah cushion, £50 www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

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Paul Stephenson (left) and Alexander Heinrici

The Making of After Warhol The artist creating ‘new’ Warhol paintings more than 30 years after his death Rarely has such a faithful rendering of an artist’s methodology been established with the rigour and diligence that we see in After Warhol. Paul Stephenson’s odyssey into the world of Warhol began in 2010 when he purchased a collection of the artist’s original acetates. His ensuing collection – created in collaboration with one of Warhol’s original master printers, Alexander Heinrici – has been lauded by both the BBC and Vice Magazine. Revered in the world of screenprinting, Alexander Heinrici was Andy Warhol’s silkscreen printer of choice, and is still much in demand to this day. Working out of his studio in Brooklyn, NYC, he has collaborated with art world heavyweights such as Damien Hirst. Fast-forward to today, and Paul is the only artist with whom Alexander is working to create what the world’s leading scholar on Andy Warhol has called ‘posthumous Warhol’ screen prints. Alongside Alexander Heinrici, Paul has brought Warhol’s original acetates to life. Bought at an auction in London and authenticated by the Andy Warhol Museum, these items are the last materials to have been worked on by Warhol by hand before the mechanical process of silkscreen printing began. Faithfully following Warhol’s method, Paul enlarged the original acetate before transferring the image to a larger canvas and using a squeegee to press the inks through a screen. Arguably, Paul feels more strongly invested in replicating each stage of Warhol’s practice with unwavering conviction than the artist himself would have deemed necessary. From travelling far and wide to source the same canvases and pigments for After Warhol and working alongside Alexander Heinrici, Paul’s efforts were rewarded when the world’s leading Warholian authority, Professor Rainer Crone stated: ‘These are fantastic, they are in Warhol’s concept… In my expertise [sic] opinion paintings made with these film positives under described circumstances and executed posthumously by professionals (scholars as well as painters) are authentic Andy Warhol paintings.’ When asked about the debate surrounding the authorship of these works, Paul says: “I like the idea of turning the art world upside down, I think Andy liked it too.” Quite so; Warhol was known for subverting accepted practices and challenging the old guard stance taken by the art world. He was unashamedly open about his hands-off approach, often not engaging with his art beyond the initial stage of working with the acetates directly. Such was his candour, he named his studio ‘The Factory’. There, others would print the pieces for him, and famously even sign art on his behalf. Warhol was quoted as saying: ‘I want other people to make my paintings… I think somebody should be able to do all my paintings for me.’ www.castlefineart.com

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Top 5 kitchen design trends for 2019 The world of kitchen design is constantly evolving. We spoke to local kitchen designer and manufacturer Rencraft for their top five predictions for 2019â&#x20AC;Ś

Modern technology meets natural materials

We predict that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see many more kitchen designs where natural materials sit harmoniously alongside modern technological advancements during the next 12 months. Clients today may be demanding the latest tech in terms of smart/connected kitchen appliances or hobs with built-in extractors such as BORA, but when it comes to their cabinetry many people still prefer the raw, earthy look and feel of natural materials such as wood and marble, alongside good, honest design.

Less fitted

The days of fully-fitted runs of kitchen cabinetry that fill an entire wall are waning, with many designs embracing a less fitted look and feel. Wall-mounted canopy hoods and chimney breasts have space around them, enabling the room to breathe and perhaps giving an opportunity to highlight other features, such as exposed brickwork. Open shelves are returning to the kitchen too, providing an area to showcase all those gorgeous copper pots and pans that are just too stylish to be shut behind doors.

Colour

Looking at the year ahead, it seems that colour is one trend that is here to stay, with blues and greens still remaining popular with our clients. This year the new twist is to use a single, bolder, darker, more dramatic shade across the majority of the cabinetry with accents of wood, metal or perhaps even a splash of a striking, statement colour such as bright pink or burnt orange.

Metallic

The use of warm metallic accessories such as copper, bronze and brass is another trend that has gathered pace and shows no sign of slowing down. Manufacturers have been quick to recognise the demand, with Quooker recently announcing that their Fusion Round and Square taps will be available this year in Black and Gold, and others, such as Perrin & Rowe and Armac Martin, continuing to offer a range of different finishes including bronze and brass. 64

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British made

“Don’t move, improve” remains the homeowners mantra for 2019, with people preferring to enhance their current property rather than risk the expense and upheaval of moving home. The desire to add value means that homeowners are steering away from cheap, mass-produced and imported items in favour of high-quality, British craftsmanship as well as stunning design. For manufacturers like Rencraft, this makes it a very exciting year. Our workshops have been based on Chart Farm in Kent for almost 40 years and potential clients are always welcome to visit us for an informal chat with one of our designers, alongside a tour of our showroom and workshops. Rencraft, Unit 9, Chart Farm, Seal Chart, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0ES. Tel: 01732 762682 Rencraft, 81 Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2UY. Tel: 01892 520730 www.rencraft.co.uk K U D O S M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 1 9

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The perfumed garden Fill your outdoor space with the heady aroma of scented flowers and herbs

You can’t beat a garden full of scented plants… roses, lavender, exotic jasmine and sweet honeysuckle. They add an extra dimension to your outdoor space, especially on a warm, summer’s day, or evening, if you’ve planted night-scented flowers like stocks and nicotiana.. Herbs, too, can add their own fragrance to the mix. Sage, lemon verbena, rosemary, basil and mint, with its range of scents from lemon to pineapple, double their worth by adding flavour to drinks and summer dishes. Plant them either side of a path so that when you brush against them, they release their fragrant oils. Thyme and chamomile are great along a walkway or placed between paving stones. Grow scented plants where you are most likely to stop and smell them. Plant climbers over an arch, trellis or round the door; grow scented plants under a living-room window and edging a path you frequently use. Nightscented flowers are a good choice near windows that are likely to be kept open on warm summer nights. A patio is the perfect spot to grow pots of scented plants because it’s the one place in the garden where you are bound to spend time and really appreciate the perfume. A scented garden is very easy to achieve, whether your plot is small, large, sunny or shaded. Here are some plants to consider.

Roses

With their showy flowers and heavily-scented blooms, Philadelphus, known as mock orange for its citrus-like scent, is easy to grow.

Lavender

An easy-to-grow, evergreen shrub that produces masses of beautifullyscented flowers on green or silvery-grey foliage. It thrives in a sunny border, container, herb or gravel gardens.

Sweet pea

The most English of flowers, these multi-coloured, sweetly-perfumed blooms are a must for a scented summer garden.

Gardenia

Not the easiest of shrubs to grow, but worth the extra effort for the mass of creamy-white flowers and intoxicating fragrance.

Honeysuckle

Honeysuckle makes a gorgeous display when the abundance of flowers appear in late spring through early summer. These fragrant climbing shrubs are very quick growing and make a lovely addition to the garden.

Roses are one of the largest groups of plants available to gardeners, so you really are spoilt for choice. Whenever possible, try to see roses in bloom before purchasing by visiting rose nurseries or rose gardens during the flowering season.

Great for patios and summer displays, plant nicotiana in pots and containers and appreciate their heady, strong scent at night, when it’s more pronounced.

Lilac

Jasmine

With their distinctive coned shaped flowers in whites, blues and purples, you can’t mistake the intense smell of the lilac. 66

Mock orange

Nicotiana

Jasmine scent is one of the best known in the world. There are many varieties to suit any garden, from vigorous climbers to more compact plants.

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Put the Spring back in your step! Tim Sykes of Gardenproud gives some tips for gardening this March and April For many Tunbridge Wells residents (including my wife), spring is when it all kicks off! Say good riddance to the winter blues, the profusion of daffs make it all worthwhile. For me, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the tulips I look forward to most. A great place to see them is during the tulip festival at Pashley Manor Gardens in Ticehurst, East Sussex. But if you have planned ahead, you can see them in your garden! For us gardeners, this is when it all gets busy. So all that clearing and preparation you may have tackled over the autumn and winter will start to pay off. Here is a list of projects you may want to consider:

- Plant summer-flowering bulbs - Weed and feed lawns - Make any lawn repairs and re-define edges - Hoe and weed beds - Protect any spring shoots from pests - Mulch rose and shrub beds with 5cm of organic matter - Start to mow lawns, ideally on drier days For further advice and information contact Tim Sykes on 07725 173820, or see him at Gardenproudâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website www.reallygardenproud.com

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A nation of gardeners Being British is all about gardens, says Edward Erith of Gardeneye consultants and designers

Have you heard this often repeated and somewhat strangely argued diatribe? “What and who are we, the British?”, “How do we define Britishness or even Englishness?” And the response is always a bit flimsy. “We’re a bit of everything these days, aren’t we? We’re everything but nothing…” Well I say, NO! NO! NO! The most apt definition of Britishness is out there for everyone to see. It is, (in no particular order): • Gardening. • Having a garden. • Not having a garden but looking at lots of gardens. • Enjoying the odd nice day pottering about, in the garden. • Watching the lawn grass (and weeds) grow and then mowing it. Repeat. • Getting muddled over what is a weed and what isn’t it in the flower bed. It’s the garden shed, the greenhouse, the potting shed, the allotment, the veg patch. It’s chatting to anyone in particular about the weather and the garden. It’s the ability to cook on the BBQ and relish it even if it is burnt or raining. It’s apologising about the garden. It’s having a falling out with the neighbour about a fence or hedge – sorted with a bottle of wine. It’s about eating strawberries and apples, and picking blackberries from hedgerows. It’s looking at the garden in winter and forgetting where everything is. It’s the satisfaction of a decent compost heap. It’s kids playing in the garden. It’s enjoying other people’s gardens as well as our own and sharing our sometimes rather useless titbits and split plants. Being British is about the garden – our relationship with it and around it. It defines us beautifully... No other country has this mild obsession, not on the scale we do. It’s why the British are fundamentally different from our European neighbours. We DO gardens. We have had 45 years to educate our continental cousins, but have they listened? Alas, no. Do they care? Clearly not. They carry on growing vegetables, claiming they are small farms, sitting in cafés on the roadside and planting endless avenues. I mean… Frankly, it comes as no surprise that Brexit has occurred, a tragic state of affairs. I completely blame the lack of European gardening flair and our own gardening inertia (especially in cities). As a result, I’m starting a new political party to bring some Britishness and much-needed hope and cheer back to these downbeat, sodden shores. You heard it here first, folks… K U D O S M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 1 9

The British Garden Party Contact me should you have any policy suggestions. Manifesto pledge: 1. All new housing must have a garden. 2. All gardens to have a compost heap and a BBQ. On a more serious note, it amazes me that the investment in a garden, whether it be for an old one that needs sorting out, or a new one that needs completely re-doing, is going to be one of the biggest financial undertakings you will make. A patio will cost £5K-£20K, the price of a small to medium size car! And that may be just one thing you are thinking about having done! A new driveway will cost £10K-£20K. Plants, a new lawn, raised beds, fences, walls, compost, soil and then the labour costs to any sized project will seriously add up. So, for goodness sake get some independent advice before you even start the house (let alone the garden) and work out the best way of using what you have efficiently. It is why I do consultations. It is to understand you, the garden, the surrounds, the area, the problems and the potential and to help guide you in the right direction. I’ve saved my clients a lot of money by steering them from crazily ambitious schemes and by suggesting things that just might not have occurred to them, and ways to make the garden valuable to them and to their property. Starting from £250 – It really is worth it. Email your policy ideas or request for a consultation to info@gardeneye.co.uk or call on 07831 868848 and be sure to leave a message (I might be pottering in the garden). 69

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Heads up!

Top local head teachers give their views

What would be your advice to today’s young, trainee teachers?

Mike Piercy, Headmaster

The New Beacon, Sevenoaks Independent preparatory school for boys aged 4-13 Before advice should come congratulations and encouragement: well done for choosing a highly-fulfilling, rewarding vocation. Teaching has always been a rather solitary job – one person in sole charge of a class with, sometimes, an assistant in the younger years. This can be a challenge as a teacher embarks on a career, in front of his or her own class for the first time. In recent years it has been a noticeable trend that teachers are far more confident to teach with an open door, with a willingness to share experiences and good practice. This is a positive trend as we can all learn from each other, from different teaching styles, from those newly trained to those of us who have been around for a while. Starting out on a teaching career is both exciting and daunting: Do I know my stuff? Am I really up to it? Will they behave and take my instruction? We often remember our teachers through their personality, especially those who were kind and encouraging (which does not mean they were too liberal or relaxed!), normally with a sense of humour. Start with a clear set of classroom rules, yours or those established by the school or a mixture of both. Stick firmly to those rules until you are confident that even the most ‘adventurous’ of your pupils has mastered (or acquiesced!) to them.

Emma Károlyi, Head of Junior King’s

The King’s School, Canterbury An independent, co-educational, day and boarding school for pupils aged 13-18 Trainee teachers face demanding edicts from government, their head teachers and managers. They face blame, parental demands, pressure to reach shifting targets: it is all too easy to lose sight of why we entered the profession. We are expected to watch for the signs of radicalisation while teaching history, correct basic spelling while separating bickering enemies, alert the DSL to an eating concern while ensuring that everyone is working at the correct level. Yet when you enter the classroom for the first time to meet a new class, you don’t see ‘Differentiated Outcomes’, ‘Attainment Targets’, or ‘Levelled Success Criteria’, but a group of children, eyes fixed on you, with dreams that you are there to bring to life. Maybe they don’t know it yet, maybe the world-weariness of a 13 year old with a smartphone weighs heavily, but if they let you, and sometimes they won’t but you’ll try anyway, you will light up their lives with magic and inspiration, and change them forever. Despite all the marking, the eccentricities of managers, the sacrifices to home life, the reason you’ll keep at it for 30 years is that yours is a job that actually makes the world a better place. When policy documents have been shredded and government initiatives have turned to dust, what remains are the postcards from the pupils who remembered to say thank you, a symbol of those whose lives have been touched by your magic. Don’t give up. That is what matters. 70

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Emma Neville, Headmistress

Rose Hill School, Tunbridge Wells Co-educational preparatory school for boys and girls aged 3-13 Firstly, I would congratulate all trainee teachers for deliberately choosing education and teaching as their career path. Personally, I have always had a love of learning and therefore making the decision to go into teaching was easy, and my career in education has been utterly rewarding. As a teacher, one not only gets to share existing knowledge, but gets to dig deeply into topics and learn something new along the way. Staff and pupils flourish at Rose Hill School, because the beauty of Rose Hill is that no two days are the same. We have created a rich curriculum that is taught by passionate teachers who like to stay on top of new technologies and trends, ensuring that they are also learning something new. The job offers such a rich variety of challenge, and the benefits of a teaching career include the impact on the lives of pupils and the ability to make a difference in the education system at large. Teachers at Rose Hill make a difference with visible results to our pupils learning. There’s nothing quite like seeing the spark of understanding on a child’s face as and when a concept falls in place. Most of all teachers get to impart knowledge, understanding and skills that will help shape the next generation.

Philip Usher, Deputy Head

Battle Abbey School, Bexhill and Battle Independent co-educational day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 3 months-18 There are few things more rewarding in life than helping a young person overcome challenges, develop a passion and fulfil their potential. Teaching offers a stimulating and varied career that is certainly different from any other job. The first piece of advice I would offer is to be as organised and prepared as possible. Life in school can be unpredictable. It could be the unplanned fire alarm, a pastoral issue with a child, the child stuck in a locker (true story) or one of an almost infinite menu of events, but there will be times in the day when things do not go to plan. Therefore, where possible minimise any unnecessary stress by having everything ready. Secondly, I would seek as much help and wisdom as possible. Any school has a wide range of skills and experts (including the support staff – never forget them). By nature, learning is central to what a school is and does. This goes for the adults within a school, too. Every teacher has a story from their early years in teaching where things did not go right, but they have learnt from it. Speak to other teachers and talk things through with them, even if you do not feel that there is a particular problem. The third piece of advice I would give is possibly the hardest to act on. Things will go wrong from time to time at all points in your career, but it will feel more significant during the early years. However, it is more important to give things a go, be reflective and honest and move forward. Control the controllable; as difficult as it may seem at the time, you can only learn from experience rather than change it. Finally, remember why you pursued a career in teaching. You can and are making a difference. The job is very intense, with parents’ evenings, reports, marking, lessons preparation and so on. It’s certainly not a job that finishes at 3.30pm and offers limitless holidays as some think – you even have to plan toilet breaks around your timetable! However, think of the teacher that inspired you and the difference that has made to your life – you could do that for others. Try to enjoy the experience as much as you can. K U D O S M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 1 9

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Andrew Webster, Headmaster

The Mead School, Tunbridge Wells Co-educational preparatory school for boys and girls aged 3-11 If I had to give today’s young trainee teachers one piece of advice, it would be to never be a slave to the curriculum. Traditional teacher-training pathways, in my view, create a dangerous cultural norm where young teachers aim to gain ‘qualified status’ within the first two or three years of their career. The truth is that teaching is a lifelong vocation, one where its practitioners should be continuously evolving and improving their approach, never resting with a feeling that they are ‘qualified’ or ‘experienced’ enough. Independent schools align themselves closely to the National Curriculum and rightly so, given that there are some irrefutable and fundamental skills which all children need to learn. However, the National Curriculum, by its nature, can sometimes create a passive, tick-box culture among teachers where there may be the tendency to never dare to stop and ask the question; “Why do they need to know this?” At The Mead, our class teachers aim to avoid referring to themselves with a year group prefix, “I’m a year 2 teacher etc.,” as it encourages a mentality that a set curriculum needs to be delivered. With such small classes, our teachers are blessed with the ability to teach to the class and tailor a curriculum which suits the group of individuals in front of them. Equally, we are passionate about joining the dots and ensuring the content we cover (in a world where all information is at our fingertips and educators are no longer the source of all knowledge) is both inspirational and relevant. In KS1, for example, we’ve moved away from explicit subject- work and, instead, have one thematic topic running through all literacy based lessons. In KS2, we have, this year, enhanced specialist subjects onto the curriculum in the form of Global Awareness and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths) in a measure designed to give the children some context and cross-curricular understanding. More than anything else, school should not be a passive experience where teachers deliver the content they’re told to and children sit and receive it. There should be an energy running through a school based on a common appreciation of what we’re here to achieve and why it’s important that we do so. This sense of purpose, coupled with a culture where teachers feel empowered to be inspirationally creative and follow a tangent sparked by the children’s interest, has the potential to create a deep love of learning (in both the children and the staff) that can last a lifetime.

Hilary Blake, Headmistress

Sacred Heart School, Wadhurst Independent Catholic mixed primary school for 2-11 Teaching is an exciting career choice, with opportunities to work anywhere in the UK or abroad. Clear progression pathways exist and continuing professional development is a priority in all schools. I would never dissuade any young person from considering a career in teaching, as long as the decision is for the right reasons. Firstly, and perhaps most obviously, you must have a genuine regard and interest in the age group you hope to teach. You need to be numerate and literate and not afraid of hard work and long hours. You need to be passionate, innovative, creative and inquisitive; brave enough to take risks, to try something new. Be prepared to learn from your mistakes and have the humility to learn from your colleagues and from your pupils. Some skills can’t easily be taught: you must be sensitive to the needs of those in your care, but at the same time develop personal resilience. You need the time and energy to commit to planning and finding resources to make your teaching relevant, engaging and inclusive. You must make the time to care for yourself and pursue interests and friendships outside the workplace. A sense of humour is essential! You have to love what you do, because if you don’t, I’m not sure you will do it well enough. Ultimately, it’s no longer about being a specialist in your field. You have to be a little bit counsellor, social worker, mentor, role model. If you are still reading and haven’t been put off yet, teaching could be your future! 72

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Craig McCarthy, Headmaster

Russell House School, Sevenoaks Independent co-educational preparatory school for boys and girls aged 2-11 As a young teacher in a rural Scottish prep school, my first Headmaster told me to ‘always keep the children at the centre of everything you do’. I have never forgotten it and 23 years later, this is very much the way I approach life as Headmaster of Russell House. I would echo that advice and expand it in the following three ways. Firstly, the way you dress, speak, eat your lunch, appear on social media (or not), drive the school minibus, will all have an impact on the children in your care and so you must always lead by example. Secondly, in your lessons and talking with pupils around school, develop the ability to question, question, question. In a world in which children can ask Alexa or Google the facts, your job is to get children to think for themselves. Have the answer you want in your plans but devise questions to let the children get there on their own. That way, you develop their curiosity and really ‘make the difference’, which is probably the reason you went into teaching in the first place! Finally, don’t forget to make it fun. Here at Russell House, we want learning to become a lifelong passion, so games, puzzles, technology and creativity accompany the questioning routine to excite and engage in equal measure. To quote Duke Ellington, ‘It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing’!

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The role of the local primary school Angela Culley, retired Headteacher and Foundation Governor, reflects on schools at the heart of their communities

As communities and families become ever more splintered and life is lived at an increasingly frenetic pace with online becoming the social and shopping norm, the role of the local primary school becomes ever more important in drawing together all areas of the communities they serve. They not only give their pupils a solid academic foundation but a secure and constant environment in which to grow and discover themselves. This develops into an appreciation and understanding of how and where they fit in the circle of life, both locally and in the larger world. They learn their responsibilities for their futures. As a retired Headteacher and now a Foundation Governor for my local primary school, St. Paul’s CofE aided in Rusthall, it is a joy to see the respect and care the children show each other. Governors, staff and parents are in the privileged position of seeing and feeling first-hand, every time we enter the school, the welcoming, positive, engaging, ambitious and creative environment that has been developed and is at the heart of the school community, and to experience the positive buzz of happy children enjoying their childhood. Albeit all schools are working and living behind locked gates, this ethos draws together all aspects of village life and beyond. Its forward-looking and all-embracing policy ensures every child and family are loved and supported. The elderly are visited for tea and enjoy regular sing-songs; pupils play an active role in church life through the choir, Sunday school and church visits; and sport is hugely popular within the school, the village and Tunbridge Wells. In turn, the school is benefitting from an ever-increasing number of volunteers, including ex-teachers, parents and those happy to set up the library or hear reading. Even Slimming World has a base in the school hall! I know this approach can be found in so many of our local schools struggling with even more budget cuts. They are working at the very edge of feasibility and rely on our support to achieve their ambitious goals and aspirations for the children entrusted to their care. In this instance, I can only speak from first-hand experience. We are all quick to judge children and the education system, so let’s take a pause and reflect on the wonderful, committed and passionate work professionals and volunteers do every day in our local schools. Money might be tight but somehow that only makes us and them more creative and determined to ensure our children have the opportunities they need in order to reach their potential, and that they support the community which in turn supports them. To end with an African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child”; in other words everyone, old and young and from every walk of life, has the responsibility and nobody needs to feel isolated.

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In the spotlight Quickfire questions for Emma Károlyi, Head of Junior King’s, Canterbury

Sum up your own school days in five words Anxious, thrilling, fulfilling, enabling, creative.

Which teacher most inspired you in your schooldays?

Mrs Racster, the Headmistress of my prep school, who lead with determination, old-school attention to detail and discipline, but with enormous warmth. She knew every child in the school, knew exactly who was not trying their hardest, and who was giving their all. When she looked at you, you felt she was looking into your soul, and knew all your innermost thoughts and ambitions. Truly a great teacher from a generation that has passed. I had plenty of bad experiences, too, at later schools, that stay with me to this day, and these have been just as important in reminding me what to ensure we avoid at Junior King’s.

What makes you smile?

As of last November, I have probably been getting the most grins from the sheer delight our new Cocker Spaniel puppy brings. The unqualified joy of his greeting when we see him first thing for breakfast means that every day starts with a smile, and brings joy to the pupils when they greet him at breaktimes.

What frustrates you?

I am by nature a little impatient, and I get terribly frustrated by hold-ups with all the things I want to bring to the school that can’t be done immediately because of planning consent, or restraints from budgets, or cautious notes of concern about particular projects. I tend to overflow with enthusiasm. I have to admit, however, that learning to plan, think things through properly, and make sure that every project is as watertight as it can be is hugely important. We can’t live on grand visions without some sensible clear thinkers to make them a reality, so learning to temper my enthusiasm, though frustrating, is part of what makes it possible to turn big ideas into a reality, in the longer term, and a reality that has a real future.

What’s your favourite book and why?

That’s difficult, I have a lot of favourite books. In writing for children, so many of Roald Dahl’s books stand out, with his plucky, anti-authoritarian characters: Fantastic Mr Fox, Matilda, Danny the Champion of the World, all of which evoke the emotional and physical landscape of my childhood and that of my family. I always loved Jane Austen, particularly Pride and Prejudice. I love Austen’s use of language, the way her irony plucks at the narrative of women’s place in the world, and the way her voice weaves in and out of that of the characters.

Where would you like to see your school in five years?

In five years’ time, Junior King’s will have its own covered pool and dance facility. The barn will be in better shape to welcome a wider community use, and most exciting, our curriculum will have gone through

a comprehensive review, building on the excellent work of all the teachers to keep our teaching fresh and relevant to the needs of young learners today. We will continue to be the best school, and one that continues to foster an understanding of European culture and internationalism in its broadest sense in all our pupils.

What do you hope that your pupils say about your school when they leave?

Often very clear memories of what was actually covered in classes fades quite quickly for teenagers plunged into exam anxiety and the pressures of social media. What I hope remains with them in the years that follow, though, is a warm memory of a time of happy immersion and enthusiasm for learning for its own sake. When I think back to the happy memories I have myself of primary school, it is of picnics in the forest, of the sense of warmth and safety that certain teachers exuded, the enthusiasm and curiosity we all shared, the creative projects and opportunities. I hope that Junior King’s pupils will say they were happy and secure, and that their start in life and the values that they took with them have supported them throughout harder times ahead.

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In the spotlight Quickfire questions for Mike Piercy, Headmaster of The New Beacon

Sum up your own schooldays in five words Less fulfilled than schools today!

Which teacher most inspired you?

My A-Level maths teacher. I am not a natural mathematician but he somehow instilled understanding. He must have had immense patience and he certainly had a sense of humour – two essential qualities in a good teacher.

What makes you smile?

Many, many things: a pupil looking you in the eye with a little smile as he greets you at the start of the day; seeing the penny drop – the look on a child’s face as comprehension dawns; sunshine and holidays!

What frustrates you?

The 21st century seems to have brought a sense of ‘entitlement’ to the world. I think it is important for children to learn that opportunities are to be grasped and nothing should be taken for granted.

What’s your favourite book and why?

Probably (but not definitely) Lucky Jim by Kingsley Amis. The hapless, accident-prone Jim Dixon, gets into all sorts of scrapes and Amis has a wonderful comic timing which is a challenge in writing prose. The characters and descriptive language are laugh out loud!

Where would you like to see your school in five years?

Changes to senior school entry procedures have given us an opportunity to be more creative with the Year 8 curriculum. The Common Entrance exam is no longer the essential hurdle to be cleared for 13+ entry to senior schools. We are now building a curriculum which is less exam driven, which blends learning skills and habits with more research, critical thinking (including Philosophy lessons), problem-solving, presentation and extended projects. Academic qualifications will remain important but thinking, problemsolving and ‘soft’, human, interpersonal skills will become ever more significant in a rapidly-changing world of work.

What do you hope your pupils say about your school when they leave?

That we gave them a host of opportunities along with the confidence and courage to ‘have a go’. That they learned to ask for help and to recover from disappointment. That we achieved the delicate balance between achievement and a sense of purpose – with enjoyment and laughter. A former colleague used to say, ‘We should take our work seriously but not with solemnity’. That they learned the meaning and importance of ‘respect’ in all walks of life.

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School report A round-up of what’s happening in the world of education

Heart to heart Schoolboy raises £1,250 for The British Heart Foundation Rory Mayes, a year 6 House Captain and student at Ashford Prep School, has raised £1,250 for The British Heart Foundation. Rory, whose grandfather suffered brain damage following multiple cardiac arrests and whose mother has recently been fitted with a pacemaker, hand-made and sold over 370 lavender-scented cushions at his school and within his community. Using hand-picked lavender from his garden, Rory sewed each cushion himself and sold them each for £2. His collection was almost doubled by other generous donations amounting to £500. Rory’s brother also suffers from a heart condition, and The British Heart Foundation is a charity that is, literally, close to his heart. In raising this money, he is contributing to the important work that the Foundation does.

Oxbridge, here we come! One in six Brighton College pupils offered a place at Oxford or Cambridge

Brighton College pupils have been celebrating after 37 of its pupils secured Oxbridge offers – a superb achievement as places become more competitive at Oxford and Cambridge universities each year. The school’s rise in academic success has been outstanding. In 2006, four pupils received Oxbridge offers and the numbers have been increasing ever since. Last summer pupils achieved the highest-ever proportion of A* grades at A-level, and the College was recently awarded England’s Independent School of the Year 2019 by The Sunday Times. This accolade reflects the College’s focus on kindness as well as results, and is the second time it has received this award. Brighton College pupils have plenty of reasons to celebrate. They have over 450 offers from Russell Group universities, as well as early offers from the USA, including Columbia and Michigan. The courses pupils have applied for – from medicine to business management and liberal arts – also show their breadth of interests. What makes the numbers even more impressive is that universities are increasingly turning to using additional tests alongside the standard UCAS applications. Katie Banks, who received an offer to study geography at Oxford, said: “You work really hard and hope you will get an offer, but now it has actually happened it feels slightly unreal. The school has been so supportive throughout this process and my family are delighted with the result.” 80

Head of Sixth Form, Alex Patton, said: “We are immensely proud of our pupils. In an environment where domestic and international competition for places at Oxford and Cambridge universities continues to intensify, we are delighted that so many offers of places have been received.” K U D O S M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 1 9

TGIF

Russell House brings enrichment to Friday afternoons Russell House has introduced a radical new approach to Friday afternoons, giving a novel twist on that ‘Friday feeling’ for pupils. The purpose is to enrich the curriculum whilst allowing children to develop skills and follow their interests. Activities take place in informal settings, ideally suited to the end of a busy week. String groups and Chamber Choir get together during the afternoons, and Years 5 and 6 explore philosophical questions with the Headmaster, Craig McCarthy. Meanwhile, group projects take place around various activities. Last term’s group projects included exploring Ordnance Survey maps and contour lines to create 3-D models of the landscape. In the process, children drew on concepts from art and geography and used skills in spatial reasoning and teamwork. The younger children focused on medieval castles, researching features of castles – not to mention methods of storming the ramparts – before designing and constructing their own models. This term, pupils are writing and assembling interactive, lift-the-flap books, which include touchy-feely elements and lots of colour. “These projects bring together diverse areas of the curriculum, while the afternoon includes opportunities for developing artistic, critical thinking and musical skills,” explained Russell House Deputy Head, Shirley Gascoigne. “Soft skills such as teamwork, communication, creativity and problem solving are all important in nurturing well-rounded adaptable individuals.”

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Top of their game Beacon students represent England in World Junior Curling Championships Crowborough’s Beacon Academy curling students, past and present, demonstrated their skills on the world stage recently, representing England at the World Junior-B Curling Championships in Finland. Year 12 students Sydney Boyd and Anna Howey and Year 11 student, Annabelle Martin, along with former Beacon students, Joe Sugden, Felix Price and Archer Woods, travelled to Lohja, Finland, at the beginning of January to compete against teams from all over the world and made it to the quarter finals of the competition. Following her achievements as the youngest player to compete in the Adult 2018 World Mixed Curling Championships in Canada, Sydney Boyd was skip (Captain) of the England Junior Girls team, while former Beacon student Joe Sugden was Captain of the England Junior Boys team. Both teams gave an outstanding performance over the eight-day tournament, while fellow Beacon Curling Club members and the school community excitedly followed their progress via updates through social media and Curling Finland’s YouTube channel. England Junior Girls were victorious in games against Australia, Kazakhstan and Estonia, but lost against Russia in the quarter finals. England Junior Boys achieved the highest score since 1999 for an England Junior Boys team, winning against Denmark, China’s Taipei, Belarus, Netherlands and France, but sadly losing to Italy in the quarter finals. Beacon Curling coach, Mr Rees, commended and congratulated each of them on their outstanding achievement, commenting, “We are incredibly proud of them all and know they will be back for more next year.”

Onward and upward Battle Abbey School ranked top for progress and achievement According to the latest Government-produced league table reported on the BBC, Battle Abbey School is ranked as the top secondary school in East Sussex, West Sussex and Kent for pupil progress and achievement at A Level. In real terms, the figures indicate how much progress students who studied A Levels at schools and colleges made between completing their GCSEs and the end of their A Level studies, compared to similar students across England. Overall for the progress scores, Battle Abbey School was ranked first in the whole of Sussex and Kent and came in at number 26th nationally out of nearly 4,500 schools. Headmaster David Clark said, “It’s fantastic for the school to be recognised in such a critical aspect of our educational provision. We pride ourselves in maximising the potential of all the pupils in our charge and this national recognition is testament to how much we care about every individual grade. “Although it is lovely to be able to count the A and A* grades achieved at A Level, for us, it is often the less-reported stories that really matter. This result shows that many of our pupils, had they studied elsewhere, would likely have been predicted D or E grades and yet, with the outstanding extra Battle Abbey support, they ended up achieving a C or B grade or better. With a smaller, more nurturing Sixth Form, the level of individual one-to-one support pupils receive here is exceptional, and our dedicated teachers go the extra mile for our students after school, at weekends or 82

in the holidays. I am delighted for the students and for their teachers that their amazing efforts have meant that we rank so highly in a league table that really matters – one that rightly recognises progress of pupils of all ability.” Pictured are some of the current Sixth Formers, with James Ward sporting the prop Rocket Pack from the school’s current ‘Fuel your child’s success’ advertising campaign. Battle Abbey Senior School has its open day on 2nd March, from 10.30am-12.30pm. K U D O S M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 1 9

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A league ahead Beacon Academy is the number one school in the county for the second year running As confirmed by Department for Education’s latest national league tables, Beacon Academy is the number one school in the county for the second year running under the headline Progress 8 measure, and has achieved first place in a long list of similar schools. Progress 8 is the Government’s main performance measure, and reflects the value that schools add to the progress of their students in respect of their final GCSE grades, compared to that of their peers of similar ability across the country. This year, the school’s validated and published Progress 8 score is 0.7 which places them at the top of the table in East Sussex, and ranks Beacon Academy as the top-performing school in a list of schools with comparable Key Stage 2 starting points. Furthermore, Beacon is in second place in Sussex overall and in the top 5 per cent of schools in England. Headteacher Anna Robinson said, “As a non-selective, non-denominational, non-fee-paying school, we are immensely proud and delighted to have received this confirmation of our high-ranking position. We are in an esteemed group of 7 per cent of schools nationally who are now categorised as ‘well above average’ for two years in a row. As ever, this is a reflection of our vision and our determination to consistently provide the best possible education for all of our students, and to become an exceptional school for our community, both locally and nationally. “We are absolutely delighted for our students, our staff and the wider community to have sustained our exceptional outcomes. However, education at Beacon Academy is about much more than academic achievement. We take pride in supporting and encouraging our students to broaden their horizons, develop their interpersonal skills and become independent learners via not only our curriculum, but our dayto-day support networks and enrichment programme. “What our students have achieved via the progress that they have made will empower them to go and be successful in life, whether in education, employment or training, allowing them to stand shoulder to shoulder with their contemporaries, whether locally, nationally or globally in whatever area they choose to pursue and in doing so, we want them to be happy and successful. This is exactly what we want for all of our students at Beacon Academy.”

Going for gold Ashford School staff given the opportunity to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award scheme Ashford School, a co-educational day and boarding school for children aged three months to 18 years, is the first school in the South East to offer staff aged 23 ½ and under the opportunity to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award at no cost. As part of the school’s adventurous learning ethos, the aim is to further embed the DofE Award into the life of the school and encourage staff to continue to drive their professional development. “We encourage our students to challenge themselves every day in school, so by doing the same with our teachers and staff, we will develop an even stronger culture of adventure and confidence. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme is a fantastic way of doing exactly that,’’ explains Headmaster Michael Hall. The programme, led by parents, teachers and staff volunteers, currently boasts 221 students who are completing or have recently received their award. The participants will travel to Snowdonia, Wales, to take part in their practice and qualifying expeditions in June. They will also complete 12 months’ volunteering and 18 months of skills and physical sections as part of the award. Lucy Hayward, a teacher of PE at Ashford School, said of the opportunity: “My passion for teaching PE is motivated by my love for being outdoors, so the opportunity to complete my Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award really excites me. It is encouraging that Ashford School supports my adventurous nature in their guidance and funding towards the award. I have always wanted to explore the peaks of Snowdonia and it’s a bonus to receive the official qualification whilst doing so. I am excited to get underway and face the new challenges.’’ K U D O S M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 1 9

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Make Mum’s day Make her feel extra-special on Mother’s Day, 31st March, with a gift that shows you care

Pink Hearts Mummy Mug. £19.95 www.emmabridgewater.co.uk

The perfect gift for mothers who don’t have time to look after themselves (hint: that’s all of them!). A deck of 50 cards, packed with physical self care as well as mindset and mindfulness tools, designed to get her through even the most frazzled and sleep-deprived days/weeks/months as a parent. The small, realistic actions will make her feel more calm, capable and cared for every day. £12.50 www.nourishtothrive.co.uk

Mother’s Day Time for Tea luxe biscuit tin. £40 www.biscuiteers.com

Gracelynn fringe rainbow tote. £45 www.oliverbonas.com

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Succulent Love Hearts in Concrete pot, £4.99, and Little Botanical double heart cacti, £11.99, both from www.dobbies.com

Paradise eau de parfum. £14 www.next.co.uk

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Seletti gold mouse lamps, £73 each. www.smithersofstamford.com Ivy leaf pendant. £85 www.lucysylvester.com

Pink tealight holder with beads and tassel charm. £6 www.giselagraham.co.uk 85

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Parenting power naps: snooze to supercharge your day

It’s not only new parents who can benefit from a daytime sleep – even if it’s only for 10 minutes

It’s no secret that sleep is essential for wellbeing; r esearch even shows our bodies need 40 winks as much as eating, drinking and breathing. But, when you’re a new parent, finding time to catch up on sleep can be tricky. There’s no denying that looking after a child can be tough, but when you’re a sleep-deprived and exhausted new parent, it can be a serious struggle. Poor sleep quality can leave us feeling lethargic, with lowered concentration levels, increased irritability and difficulty coping with stressful situations. We’ve all heard the expression ‘sleep when the baby sleeps’ but the wellbeing experts at CABA believe power napping holds the solution to supercharging your day and surviving those early days of parenthood.

Power nap in the name of parenting

Most new parents will struggle to get enough sleep at night and consequently, energy levels dip. In fact, it’s proven that power naps alleviate ‘sleep deficits’ (the cumulative effect of not getting enough sleep). A quick kip boosts our brain, improving problem-solving, creativity, learning and memory, which is good news for our overall happiness and wellbeing. Medically speaking, napping benefits the heart, blood pressure, stress levels and weight management.

Beware of sleep inertia

Power napping isn’t for everyone. Sleep too deeply and you’ll feel groggy, which is counterproductive. This sensation is known as ‘sleep inertia’, thought to happen when part of your brain is still asleep. We tend to feel this first thing in the morning, when our alarm goes off. A typical period of sleep inertia can last up to 30 minutes, though you may be affected for up to four hours. To 86

overcome this, many may reach for a strong cup of coffee (or two) to recharge them. While a temporary stimulant, the caffeine in coffee can stay in the system for five to nine hours, leading to disrupted sleep at bedtime. Opting for decaffeinated drinks could be the answer; you’ll get a quick fix of your favourite tea or coffee without risking the sleepless nights. It might also be good for your baby, as studies have suggested that some can become sensitive to mum’s caffeine intake.

The science behind sleep inertia

Sleep inertia occurs when you’re woken from a stage in the sleep cycle called REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. The entire sleep cycle lasts about 90 minutes, during which there are five stages. REM sleep is the last of these stages, the first four making up NREM (non-rapid eye movement) sleep. The REM stage is when you dream. Your brainwaves speed up, your muscles relax, your breathing becomes more rapid and shallow and your heart rate increases. But if you’re suddenly woken during the REM stage, your body may be producing high levels of a hormone called melatonin, which makes you feel sleepy.

How to nap effectively

If you’re new to power naps, you may not find it easy to fall asleep quickly when it’s not your regular bedtime. Here are some tips to send you on your way: 1. Tune out for 10 minutes Some scientists believe the way to combat sleep inertia when it comes to napping is to wake after 90 minutes (that is, after an entire sleep cycle). However, this can be difficult to achieve when you have nappies and feeding schedules to contend with. K U D O S M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 1 9

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So, for a quick fix, nap for 10-20 minutes. Research proves that 10 minutes is all it takes to notice immediate improvements in your performance and mood. Just remember that REM is the final stage of sleep, so the further along the cycle you are when you wake, the harder it will be to feel alert. 2. Schedule your sleep If you nap at the same time every day, it could help train your body to fall asleep quickly and wake at the right time. The time of day for your nap could be important, too. It’s common to experience an energy dip after lunch, so if you can, aim to take your power nap in the middle of the day, between 1-3pm. Nap any later and you may find it affects your ability to fall asleep at night. It’s just as important for new parents as it is for infants to fall into a routine, and it’s never too early to try and find one that works for you and your baby. 3. Turn off technology If you don’t want to be disturbed with calls or texts, put your phone on silent. When waiting to fall asleep, it’s tempting to browse through social media. However, the brain interprets the blue light phones and tablets emit to mean it’s daytime. This light, especially when received in short wavelengths, curbs the production of melatonin, the hormone that helps you fall asleep, stopping you from switching off. 4. Block out the light The darker your environment, the more likely you’ll fall asleep faster – even dim lighting can distract you. If you can’t find a dark enough room or corner, try wearing a sleep mask. Slip under a blanket as this will also keep you warm, as your body temperature drops during sleep.

5. Drown out distractions If you’re recently back to work from maternity or paternity leave and struggling to get the recommended seven to nine hours a night, if you appreciate the benefits of a power nap why not broach it with your employer and start a trend? It’s natural to find the concept of napping at work strange but take inspiration from Google. The company has installed ‘sleep pods’ on site that play relaxing music to help employees drift off. More and more employers are embracing the idea of naps if it improves their workforce’s alertness, productivity and morale. Find a quiet, private space to relax. The buzz of your surroundings may keep you awake but try downloading a white noise app on your phone, as many people find they help them fall asleep in noisy environments. 6. Seek out support Don’t suffer with sleep deprivation in silence or self-medicate with sleep aids, especially when you may be experiencing stress and/or anxiety as a result. Confidential phone, online and face-to-face counselling is available, with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), an effective treatment to help you achieve a sound sleep.

Struggling to sleep at night? CABA has plenty of tips on getting a good night’s sleep, as well as further support on how to supercharge your sleep.

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Are you a backseat driver?

If you stamp on an imaginary brake, get road rage on the driver’s behalf or insist on giving directions, then the answer is yes! Almost 30 per cent of drivers in the South East admitted to having an argument due to backseat driving, while 27 per cent missed their turning due to passenger distraction, according to a recent survey. Criticising the driver’s decisions, flinching when they appear to drive too close to the car in front and commenting when it’s time to leave the junction only serve to irritate those at the wheel, with over 45 per cent of respondents confirming that there is nothing more annoying than driving with an interfering passenger. Gasping loudly when the driver brakes, complaining about speed and stamping on an imaginary brake are all signs of a typical ‘backseat driver’. David Carter, spokesman for Accident Advice Helpline, who carried out the research via OnePoll.com, said: “If you are someone who drives regularly, it can be really hard to switch off and let someone else take control of the wheel. Unfortunately, making comments and reacting to what is happening on the road while in the passenger seat can be a big distraction for the person driving, and you could be contributing to increasing the risk of an accident or near-miss.” Researchers found nagging partners are the biggest backseat drivers, followed by mum and then dad, while the top 20 list of annoyances include getting road rage on the driver’s behalf, holding your hands over your face, and insisting on giving directions – even if they are not needed. Other characteristics of a backseat driver, and likely to cause a near-miss, include advising on which lane the car should be in, and telling the driver when to move at the traffic lights. Only 17 per cent of motorists in the South East admitted that they are backseat drivers when travelling in someone else’s car. K U D O S M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 1 9

Top 20 signs of a backseat driver • Criticising the driver’s decisions behind the wheel • Complaining about the speed being too fast • Gasping loudly at any slight braking movement • F linching when they feel the driver is too close to another vehicle/obstacle/wall • Complaining about the speed being too low • Saying when is a good time to leave a junction • Pressing the imaginary brake • Advising on which lane the car should be in • Telling the driver when the traffic lights have changed to green • Insisting on giving directions • Interfering with the music • Swearing at other road users • Gesticulating at other road users • Getting road rage on the driver’s behalf and swearing at other drivers • Waving ‘thanks’ at other drivers for letting you out • Reading out the road signs as you pass them • Changing the heating levels • Holding your hands over your face • Closing your eyes frequently when someone else is driving • Disagreeing with the sat nav

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Back to school

There are new parenting tribes on the school run this year. Watch out for clipboard mum, Instagram mum and drive-by mum, amongst others...

‘Instagram mums’, ‘handbag dog mums’ and ‘activewear mums’ are some of the most popular new parenting tribes on the school run this year, it has emerged. ChannelMum.com carried out a detailed study that revealed there are now 11 types of parent to be found at the school gates. According to the report, the scariest new school-run parent is the fierce ‘clipboard mum’, who gave up her high-flying career to run the school parents’ association, with 63 per cent of other parents finding her intimidating. ‘Clipboard mums’ are famed for pressurising parents to sign up to school and charity events, while the rapid rise of social media means over half of school gates now have ‘Instagram mums’ who snap ‘school-run selfies’ in full make-up and a new outfit each day. Instagram mums were also rated intimidating by 60 per cent of parents. Siobhan Freegard, founder of ChannelMum.com, said: “Back to school is second only to Christmas in terms of stress for parents – but the school gates can also be a source of tremendous support. “Whether you’re an ‘activewear mum’, an ‘Instagram mum’ or a ‘good -enough mum’, we’re all trying to do the right thing and give our kids the best start in life.” The most common new tribe is the ‘activewear mum’ who dons trendy workout gear for the school run and jogs her kids to school. Three quarters of parents polled said they have ‘activewear mums’ at their school. One in seven school gates now also has a ‘handbag dog mum’ who carries a tiny but expensive teacup dog in a blinging designer handbag, alongside one in four ‘vegan eco mums’. A further seven in 10 have ‘drive-by mums’ at their school that park on the double yellow lines outside the school gates and throw the kids out of the car before roaring off. With the increase in working mums, 50 per cent of those polled also say they have seen more grandparents on the school run, while a third report a leap in the number of work-at-home dads taking tots to school. But almost half of parents polled described themselves as a ‘good enough mum’ who takes shortcuts, such as feeding her family frozen food, but 90

always gets costumes made and homework done just in time. Overall, the study showed 45 per cent of parents enjoy the school run, with five per cent of mums claiming it is the ‘highlight’ of their day. However, a quarter of mums admit they ‘dread it’, with 74 per cent of parents claiming to feel more pressure to look well-groomed on the school run than in previous years. Worryingly, the poll also found over half of parents say there is a hierarchy of mums at the school gates, with 72 per cent feeling excluded by other parents and five per cent even being bullied. However, the school gates can also be a place of friendship, with two in five mums meeting a best friend on the school run and 29 per cent actively supporting a small business run by other parents at their school. Siobhan Freegard added: “Our advice is simply to smile and strike up a conversation with the other parents around you. “There’s always more which unites mums, dads and grandparents than divides us, and the school gates are a great place to find a new support network.”

11 types of modern school-run parents Clipboard mum

Swapped a high-flying career to be the PTA CEO. Stands by the gates to charm/browbeat other parents into signing up to the PTA board, run stalls at the school fête, organise the cakes sales, sew school play costumes and hand over cash for charity runs. Revered and feared. Other mums run when she starts striding over. Most likely to say: “Didn’t you get my email on that?”

WhatsApp mum

Always late, always disorganised, depends on the class WhatsApp group for absolutely everything. Usually found WhatsApping at 9pm on a Sunday night to get homework which has to be handed in on Monday morning. Most likely to say: “Sorry, I didn’t get that message, can you resend it?” K U D O S M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 1 9

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Instagram mum

Arrives polished and preened with three picture-perfect kids. Bouncy hair, dazzling megawatt smile, endless supply of enviable, fashionable new clothes. Snaps a ‘what I wore on the school run selfie’ each day. Most likely to say: “Oh what, this old top/dress/bag? It’s just a little vintage find.”

Handbag dog mum

You spend the entire time trying to keep her curious kids away from the ice cream and cake. Most likely to say: “Oh gosh no, my kids would never want to eat anything like that” – while her kids are stuffing mouthfuls of it behind her back.

Work at home trendy dad

Carries a small teacup dog in a large designer bag. Dog gets more love, fuss and after-school treats than the kids. Most likely to say: “My dog is my baby, she’s just soooo cute.”

Often seen in cycling gear or dressed like an aging hipster in T-shirt and shorts. Talks loudly about his freelance work and invites himself to the mums’ coffee shop meet-ups. Most likely to say: “So, did I tell you about my latest project?”

Activewear mum

Drive-by mum

Craft mum

Scooter grans and grandads

Always clad in tight Lycra and the latest mesh-panel leggings. Runs to school, jogs on the spot at drop off, and can’t wait to ‘drop and dump’ so she can get on with her exercise regime. Often runs in packs with other activewear mums. Most likely to say: “Sorry, can’t stop, I’m in training today and I’ve got to beat my personal best.”

Always brings in recycled and expertly-done homework craft creations. Feared at bake sales for producing handmade, perfectly-iced and decorated cupcakes. Wrinkles her nose at your Tesco packed sponge cakes. Usually skips around in Boden tea dresses or is arty and alternative. Most likely to say: “It’s so easy, only takes a jiffy and well, making it yourself just shows that extra bit of love, don’t you think?”

Vegan eco mum

Lovely and well-meaning but playdates and parties are a minefield – no plastic, no eggs, no sugar, no dairy, clean eating, no artificial anything.

Harassed and stressed, they park on the double yellow lines outside the school gates and throw the kids out of the car before roaring off. Kids always still munching on a slice of toast as they haven’t had a proper breakfast. Can either be in PJs or in work suits. Most likely to say: “Quick, hurry up, get out before the traffic warden comes!”

Heroic golden oldies who’ve swapped retirement for hardcore childcare duties so mum and dad can work. Always seen slowly making their way home laden with children’s scooters. Most likely to say: “Don’t tell mummy” while dishing out big bags of Haribo at pick-up time.

Good-enough mums

Always makes drop-off by the skin of her teeth, usually feeds the ‘beige rainbow’ at playdates, often in jogging bottoms with hair in a messy topknot but loves her kids before anything else. Most likely to say: “Is it too early for wine o’clock?”

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Business notes A round-up of local business news

House call Fourth Houzz win for Rencraft For the fourth year in a row, Rencraft has won the Best of Design category and received recognition in the Best Customer Service category in the annual Houzz Awards, the leading platform for home renovation and design. Rencraft, who have been designing and manufacturing kitchens in Kent for almost 40 years, were chosen by the more than 40 million monthly unique users that comprise the Houzz community from among more than 2.1 million active homebuilding, renovating and design industry professionals. Karen Cowell, Marketing Manager for Rencraft, said: “We are absolutely over the moon to have won both a Best of Design and a Best Customer Service award from Houzz. To continue to have our work recognised in this way is really special. It’s a fantastic honour and a great way to start the year.” www.rencraft.co.uk

Luxury homes from home Kent holiday park triumphs in top industry awards A Kent holiday park set in an area of outstanding natural beauty has won a top industry award. The recently-renovated Canterbury Reach Lodge Retreat in Canterbury has been named the Best Lodge Escape in the South of England at the annual Hoseasons Awards. The holiday park, which was re-opened in 2017, is owned by leading operator Darwin Escapes, which has just scooped a dozen travel industry awards for its parks around the country. Darwin Escapes operates 22 holiday parks throughout the UK offering a variety of holiday styles including secluded boutique lodge retreats, luxury lodge resorts with state-of-the-art leisure facilities and family-oriented, traditional holiday parks. Overall, they took home 12 awards, five of them Diamond Award Winners for the locations that top their category, plus another seven locations which also won Diamond Awards. Darwin Escapes has invested heavily in the redevelopment of Canterbury Reach Lodge Retreat to offer luxury lodges with a beautiful countryside backdrop. They are pet-friendly and feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions and full kitchen facilities. Lindsey Esse, Group Managing Director of Darwin Escapes, said: “This was a hugely-successful night for Darwin Escapes and great news for our Canterbury Reach Lodge Retreat. “We are setting new standards for the UK holiday park industry by creating brand new parks in stunning, handpicked locations which provide holidaymakers and holiday-home owners with accommodation and facilities to rival five-star hotels.”

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“Dishonest, manipulative, arrogant, menacing and contemptuous of the court’s authority...”

This was the court’s description of a husband in a recent financial remedy case, says Sarah Haywood of ThomasHaywood Solicitors

Refusal or failure to comply with court orders may happen in any type of family proceedings but here we will focus on financial remedy proceedings, where sometimes the richer party is reluctant to give full details of their assets, especially if they feel they have made a larger financial contribution to the marriage, whether by income or capital. The starting point for the court in England is to consider all contributions to the marriage, whether financial or by a contribution to the wellbeing of the home and family, as equal and this is often difficult for a high-earner or unequal financial contributor to the marriage to understand. Such a person thinks that by not providing full disclosure, they will “get away” with hiding their assets from the court and thus deny their former spouse a share of them. However, in most cases the court will not allow them to do this and their non-disclosure will frequently adversely affect the final outcome for them. In the recent case of Quan-v-Bray and Others, Mr Justice Mostyn, a leading Family Court judge, said, “When somebody fails to comply with a court order for disclosure of documents, the court can reach into its armoury and take enforcement proceedings, including proceedings for committal to prison, or it can approach the matter in a more nuanced way, which is to say that it will, at the appropriate time, draw the necessary inferences from the failure to give disclosure.”

What this means is that the judge will probably adopt the other spouse’s valuation of the assets. The judge described the husband in this case in the terms at the beginning of this article, made a generous maintenance order against him and adjourned the wife’s capital claims until such time as the husband’s financial position became clearer. In another recent case, LFL-v-LSL, the District Judge said, “Nondisclosure has a devastating effect. It prevents the court from considering all of the evidence that could have been available and forces the court into the unsatisfactory position of having to make assumptions as to the existence of certain assets and other relevant facts.” Another way that non-disclosure can be “punished” is with the use of a costs order. It is now generally the rule in matrimonial finance proceedings that the court will not make an order for costs to be paid by one party to the other. However, the court does have power to do so where it considers that it is appropriate because of the conduct of a party in relation to the proceedings. This is what it did in this latter case in addition to giving the wife over 55% of the known assets. If you have concerns that your spouse will not disclose assets or will mispresent their value, then ThomasHaywood Solicitors will be able to help you.

www.thomashaywoodsolicitors.com

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Helping hand

A round-up of local charity news

Oh yes, we are! Care home residents treated to theatre trip The panto season may be over, but memories will linger for the elderly residents from Rusthall Lodge Care Home who were treated to an evening at the pantomime for a Happy New Year’s gift, with the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells, also giving them the chance to have their photo taken with the cast of Sleeping Beauty. “Taking our residents out to enjoy a Christmas panto was the perfect ending to our 50th anniversary celebrations, rounding off a year of Golden Moments for our care home residents,” said Director of Care at Rusthall Lodge Care Home, Hilary Taylor. “Most of our residents come from the Rusthall, Langton Green and Tunbridge Wells areas, so the Assembly Hall has long been their local theatre; it was a real trip down memory lane for them and they had a great time.”

Image credit: David Bartholomew Photography

Supporting dementia Dementia Gala raises vital funds for Alzheimer’s Society

Magician Marc Lemezma, who entertained guests, and Jacqui Offen celebrate at the Gala Dance in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society

A bi-annual Gala and Dance held at Cathedral Lodge in Canterbury raised £7,500 for the Alzheimer’s Society. Jacqui Offen, Director at J & J Systems who backed the event, said: “It’s great to think that the guests and all those who donated prizes have raised funds to help people live well with dementia and to fund research to one day find a cure.” Plans are already underway for a summer event on 30th June, ‘Music on the Lawn’, which promises to be just as successful. Alzheimer's Society community fundraiser Amber Woodward, who covers the Kent and East Sussex area, said: “It’s great that Jacqui and the whole team have given their time to support Alzheimer’s Society. Dementia can happen to anyone and there is currently no cure. But with the right support, people can live well with dementia. Alzheimer’s Society relies on the generosity of individuals like those who attended this event to help us fight dementia.” To help in the Kent and East Sussex area, whether through fundraising or by becoming a volunteer, visit the Alzheimer’s Society’s website to find out more. From running your local 5K, trekking the Inca Trail, or cycling from London to Paris, Alzheimer’s Society has a fantastic range of events both in the UK and abroad. www.alzheimers.org.uk

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Magic million Children With Cancer Fund reaches a remarkable milestone What an amazing year 2018 was for Children With Cancer Fund (CWCF). The little charity based in Polegate has hit the magical figure of £1m that they have raised and spent on the cancer families of East Sussex/ Brighton & Hove. “Since being presented with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Services in 2015, everyone has realised we are not here today and gone tomorrow, but determined to give our local cancer families the personal touch that they often need,” says Chris Downton, Founder and Trustee of the Charity. “The figures speak for themselves and we could not have done it without the support of many companies, groups and individuals. “We may be only a little charity but our aims are high and we would like to continue doing what we do and do it even better. With your continued support we will and can.” www.childrenwithcancerfund.org.uk

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Wild and free From rescuing critically-endangered orangutans in Borneo to rehabilitating caged bears in Armenia, International Animal Rescue, based in Uckfield, is working to save animals from suffering, as well as protecting their habitats International Animal Rescue (IAR) opened its office in Uckfield, East Sussex in 1998, with Alan Knight as Chief Executive Officer. Alan was subsequently awarded an OBE in 2006 for services to animal welfare. “In the early days, IAR was strictly an animal welfare organisation with the key objective of saving animals from suffering and giving them the peaceful, pain-free lives

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they deserve,” explains IAR’s Elisabeth Key. “Over time, however, we have found that the rescue, rehabilitation and release of wild animals will only succeed if it goes hand in hand with the conservation of their natural environment. As a result, the charity’s main objectives are now not only to save animals from suffering, but also to protect and preserve their precious habitats.”

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Current projects include: • T he rescue, rehabilitation and release of critically-endangered orangutans in Borneo and the protection and preservation of their rainforest home • T he rescue, rehabilitation and release of critically endangered slow lorises and longtailed and pig-tailed macaques in Indonesia • T he rescue and lifelong care of dancing bears in India and Nepal • T he rescue, rehabilitation and where possible the release of caged bears in Armenia. IAR also provide lifelong care for those bears that can’t be returned to the wild • The rescue, rehabilitation and release of howler monkeys electrocuted on uninsulated power cables and transformers in Costa Rica, as well as the treatment, care and reintroduction of other sick and injured wildlife

“The majority of our staff are based at our projects in the field, particularly in Indonesia where we employ more than 200 people, most of them local,” explains Elisabeth. “We have a team of 14 people in our UK office, two based in the US and one representative overseeing the project in Costa Rica. “In Indonesia and Costa Rica, rescue missions are coordinated by our teams in the field. In Armenia and India, we work with local partners who coordinate the rescue missions and carry them out, with or without the attendance of IAR representatives. So our own location isn’t a problem as long as we maintain good communication. Alan, our CEO, travels regularly to the projects, and other means of communication such as Skype and WhatsApp enable us to stay in close touch with our teams on the ground.” Palm oil production is an increasing factor in the destruction of the environment. Says Elisabeth: “In the area surrounding our orangutan rescue centre in Ketapang, West Borneo, vast areas of the rainforest have been destroyed to make way for palm oil and, to a much lesser extent, for other industrial-scale plantations such as wood and rubber. “While oil palm is a high yielding crop – and therefore an economical one – the scale on which it is being produced in Indonesia is unsustainable. When arriving in Ketapang by plane, the bird’s eye view is of palm oil plantations stretching as far as the eye can see. “Once their forest home has been destroyed, wild orangutans are left without food and shelter, making them vulnerable to hunters or leaving them in danger of starving to death. Others stray into villages or onto farmland in search of food and are at risk of coming into conflict with local people trying to protect their crops. “Adult orangutans are often killed and their babies either kept or sold as pets. Our rescue centre is home to 120 orangutans that have been rescued from the pet trade. Most of these orphaned primates are undergoing rehabilitation so that one day they can return to safe, protected areas of forest. 98

“We must all try to be conscientious consumers. It is hard to verify whether ‘sustainable palm oil’ is in fact exactly that. Therefore, where possible it is better to avoid products containing any form of palm oil and always try to purchase local products which are also better for the health of the planet as a whole.” There are numerous ways in which people can support IAR. Their website has suggestions for ways to get involved, from making a donation or holding a fundraiser to following them on social media and sharing their posts in order to raise awareness of their work. Check out, too, their fabulous fundraising event running throughout April called ‘Cakes for Apes’ (www.cakes4apes.org). Says Elisabeth, “It’s basically an opportunity for people to bake cakes and sell them at home, in the office or at school during Ape-ril and raise money for our orangutan project. We’ve got fantastic fundraising materials to help with ideas and recipes – and people can buy Ape-rons and T-shirts online to support us. “We also welcome the help of an extra pair of hands in the office when things are particularly hectic, so the opportunities are endless!” www.internationalanimalrescue.org K U D O S M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 1 9

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