Kudos 04

04

Your free lifestyle magazine for Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks and surrounding areas

The art issue

Painting the town red

Something fishy Delicious fish dishes

Colour splash Fashion goes creative

HELLO Welcome to the May/June issue of Kudos, the new local magazine for Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks and the surrounding areas.

This issue we’ve gone all arty, thanks to the wealth of talent in the area. We’ve met local artists and even got some of them to be the models in our fashion feature. We also feature Artists Unveiled, a new art project with the mission to match local, contemporary artists with spaces to put on one-off exhibitions and events. Then of course there’s the Masters in their Field and the Going Wild exhibitions at the Wing gallery in Wadhurst. It all adds up to an exciting local art scene.

As the summer of sport gets under way, we meet local sporting hero Dame Kelly Holmes and learn about her DKH Legacy Trust, which has a vision to get young lives on track through sport.

If you feel you need more get up and go, then check out our seven days to energise your life plan on page 50, along with our healthy fish and seafood recipes on page 46. On the subject of food, Nourish is a new charity with a dedicated band of volunteers, who work to make sure no one goes hungry in Tunbridge Wells.

As always, we’ve got your naughty pets named and shamed, scouted out some local fashionistas, and tracked down some interesting events. We give tips on helping your children cope with the stress of exams and let off steam in a Porsche Cayman S. All proof that local life just keeps getting better!

pinterest.com/kudoskent/

Hannah Tucek Publishing Director

facebook.com/KudosKent

twitter.com/KudosKent

Managing Director: Robin Tucek Publishing Director: Hannah Tucek Editorial Director: Ann Wallace Creative Director: Neil Constant Chief Sub-Editor: Verity Willcocks Fashion Editor: Sally-Ann Carroll Photographer: Matt Harquail Sales & Marketing Manager: Carmen Maxfield Beauty Editor: Lucy Hargrave Motoring Editor: Anthony ffrench-Constant Social Media Queen: Lady Katherine Sims

Advertising Sales 01892 300321 Kudos is published bi-monthly by Bad Betty Media, Blackadder House, 1 Andrew Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 9DN Printed by Polestar, Colchester, Essex

While every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers, authors and printers cannot accept liability for errors or omissions. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be produced in any form without the written permission of the copyright holder and publisher, application for which should be made to the publisher. Opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

WELCOME TO KUDOS

5

CONTENTS

20

LOVE FEATURES Upfront 11

What’s new and happening

Calling all artists 37

Could you be the talent that Artists Unveiled is looking for?

Perfect Porsche 64

The third-generation Cayman S reigns supreme

Artists at work 72

Meet some of our top local artists

Delicious recipes with fish and seafood

A round-up of the latest foodie news

LOVE HOME AND GARDEN Fruits of your labours 42 Tips on growing the perfect fruit

Traditional meets modern 56

Creating country charm in a contemporary home

Home, sweet home 63

The charity that’s helping to beat hunger

Ideas to turn your house into a home

LOVE CELEBRITY Winning streak 20

All about your home 86

LOVE LOOKS Fashionista 16

Style on the streets

A work of art 28

Fashion meets art in our creative looks for summer

Seven days to energise your life 50 How to find your get up and go!

Beauty extra 55 Keep it natural

CONTENTS

28

Let’s eat 49

Food for thought 90

Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes on giving children a chance

6

LOVE FOOD Catch of the day 46

Local experts answer your questions

LOVE FAMILY How to beat exam stress 68

Strategies to help your children cope with exams

72

Heads up 70

Education experts answer your questions

LOVE BUSINESS Designs on you 78

Cris Sega on designing the perfect home

Business agenda 80

Help and advice for small and medium-sized businesses

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

TONBRIDGE

8

LIV E LOC AL

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

8:00am

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

LOV E LOC AL

9

K ATE SIMMS AD

10

ADV ERTISEMENTS

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

UPFRONT

What’s new and happening A May to remember This May the Assembly Hall Theatre celebrates its 75th birthday. Located in the heart of Tunbridge Wells, it continues to be a vital part of the community, providing a continuous schedule of established and eclectic performers.

The Assembly Hall Theatre first opened its doors in 1939, under Marchioness Camden, as part of the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the granting of the town’s charter in 1889. Hundreds of thousands of events later, they are marking their three-quarters of a century with a series of events celebrating the remarkable programmes, patrons and staff that have made the Assembly Hall Theatre one of the most cherished landmarks of the town.

Tunbridge Wells Operatic and Dramatic Society, now known as TWODS, presented the first production Pirates of Penzance in May 1939. The Second World War broke out in 1939 with the theatre becoming central to the war effort in Tunbridge Wells, laying on popular dances for troops, screening morale-boosting films and running tea dances for local people and also staging various events to raise money for the war effort. With the war finally over in 1945, the theatre returned to its more traditional roles.

Rising young actor Richard Attenborough was a star guest at the first Christmas ball in 1948, professional wrestling also flourished, and many of today’s best-known and emerging artists have played at the theatre.

Brian McAteer, Theatre Director says: “The Assembly Hall Theatre is a key feature in the landscape of Tunbridge Wells. 75 years on and still standing, our landmark anniversary gives us the opportunity to look back at our achievements and look forward to an exciting future. From its inception as a state-of-the-art venue, we are delighted to still be bringing the best entertainment to the heart of Tunbridge Wells whilst continuing to support the local community.” www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

Is your cat a star in the making?

ITV’s most successful comedy of all time, Rising Damp, comes to the stage at the Assembly Hall Theatre from 2nd to 4th June and the producers, The Comedy Theatre Company who, over the past two years have also produced Victoria Wood’s dinnerladies and BBC TV’s Birds of a Feather, are looking for a suitable feline to be Rigsby’s cat, Vienna.

They are looking for a local cat similar to the famous black-and-white moggie of the TV series for a photo-shoot when the show arrives in Tunbridge Wells in June.

Our office cat (AKA Bad Betty) wanted to try out but as a silver tabby, she doesn’t quite fit the profile!

If you have a cat who wants to be famous for a week – even if it is in the arms of Rigsby – then email a photo with your name, the cat’s name and a contact number to editorial@badbettymedia.co.uk and the producers will choose the winner. But hurry! Closing date for entries is the 23rd May. The winner will then be given complimentary tickets to see the show and will have a chance to meet the cast after the performance.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

LOV E NEWS

11

UPFRONT

What’s new and happening

MASTERS IN THEIR FIELD EXHIBITION Pure Fine Art is delighted to present the Masters in their Field exhibition, which takes place at the Wing Gallery in Wadhurst between 22nd May and 12th July.

This exciting exhibition highlights artwork by a selected group of leading artists representing their specialist media; drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, glass and fine art jewellery.

It will showcase artists who are committed to continually pushing the boundaries of their chosen field, intent on producing the highest-quality artwork.

Wing Art Gallery, opened by sculptor Gavin Roweth in November 2012, is situated in the centre of the charming Wealden village of Wadhurst.

The gallery has a warm inviting feel, blending its 15th-century origins with some Edwardian and Victorian additions, along with some more contemporary hanging space.

Glasswork by Peter Layton

The exhibition will be open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am to 5pm.

The following exhibitors will be on display: James Horton PRBA, Dani Humberstone SWA, Celia Allen, Kate Van Der Pump, Louisa Crispin, Will Taylor SGFA, Helen Acklam, Karl Terry, Brenda Hartill RE, Frank Kiely RE, Marie Prett, Claire Palanstanga, Peter Layton, Gavin Roweth, Kate McBride and Clive Riggs SGFA. www.purefineart.org.uk www.wingartgallery.com Wing, High Street, Wadhurst TN5 6AA

JANE FORD ‘GOING WILD’ AT WING GALLERY Tail of Mammal

Tooth of Predator

Talon of Raptor…

From 2nd to 17th May, Jane will be exhibiting new works at the Wing gallery.

British wildlife portrayed in the raw using ink and a secret ingredient, alongside oil studies of birds and animals in quirky, obscure tableaux.

With titles like ‘Once upon a Time’, ‘White Raven of Gormanghast’ and ‘Black Raven of Poe’, Jane creates paintings of drama and wit.

Hailing from Staffordshire, Jane trained for eight years both at art school and as an apprentice illustrator.

Now living in the marshes of Sandwich, she takes the wildlife surrounding the studio as her models.

An exhibitor with the Sunday Times Watercolour Competition, Jane has also exhibited with The Royal Society of British Artists as well as many galleries throughout the country.

Her commissions include all the paintings displayed in The Cambridge Belfry Hotel, and The International Exhibition with Davidoff, an image being selected for worldwide publication and distribution.

Once upon a Time by Jane Ford

12

LOV E NEWS

www.wingartgallery.com

01892 783665

Wing, High Street, Wadhurst TN5 6AA

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

UPFRONT

What’s new and happening

HOSPITAL’S FUTURE IS BRIGHT

Following their performance in Italy last year, local band Nightrain are playing at the Plaza Suite, Stag Theatre, in Sevenoaks on Friday 9th May from 7.30pm to help raise funds to make the parents’ room a brighter place at the Evelina Children’s Hospital, which is part of Guys & St Thomas in London.

Tickets are now on sale through the Stag Theatre box office in Sevenoaks, and there will also be a raffle taking place on the evening, which is being supported by local businesses. Jacqueline Jossa, who plays Lauren in Eastenders, will be giving out raffle prizes on the evening.

The fundraising project was inspired by vocalist Sarah Jane’s third baby, Austin, who was born in November 2013 and diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis just before Christmas. The condition is a narrowing of the aortic valve of the heart which can be life-threatening. After tests, like many parents in Kent, they were referred to a heart specialist at the Evelina Children’s Hospital. Austin was booked for keyhole surgery; a delicate procedure and a familiar one to the surgeons, but not without risk. The operation was a success and Austin’s parents were delighted to see their baby returned to them.

So why did Nightrain get involved?

Marcel Mendez and Tim Lyth, Nightrain founders, said: “We learnt that there was a parents’ area at the hospital that could be improved and we all felt strongly that we wanted to help raise money by putting together a night of live music, which we hope will be both entertaining for the audience and lucrative for the charity. We will be performing songs featuring classic rock and pop hits from the Rolling Stones to Lady Gaga.

Sarah Jane adds: “At the hospital, there are all kinds of facilities to enable children to deal with their debilitating illnesses: toys, games, a slide, a library, and even schooling on site. This is a stressful time for any parent. As you might expect, there is plenty of distress on the wards, but the surgeons, nurses and other staff were always available with a smile and guidance.

“If you ever have the misfortune of being in hospital with a very sick child this is the place to be. The only thing we felt could be improved was a bright, clean, calm, quiet and private space for the parents. A place to shower or sit without being too far from your child. Our hope is to be able to raise sufficient money to help improve the parents’ room.” marcelmendezmusic@hotmail.com www.nightrain.co.uk www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk

SPOTLIGHT… KENT ADULT EDUCATION IN WEST KENT We’d like to say a big ‘thank you’ to Kent Adult Education who allowed us to shoot our fabulous fashion feature in its Tunbridge Wells Centre. They provide a provision in West Kent which is continuing to grow, and with their new 2014/15 courses now available for booking, it’s the perfect time to try your hand at something new. With centres situated in Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells, there is sure to be something near you.

Sevenoaks Located on the outskirts of Sevenoaks with beautiful views across the Kent countryside, the centre was built in 1874 originally as a private house, but later became a girls’ school before Kent Adult Education moved in.

With many original features including stained glass windows, the Sevenoaks Centre provides stimulating surroundings for you to learn in. It offers a wide range of courses and is equipped with an art studio with fantastic views.

Tonbridge & Malling The centre operates from two buildings, the first being a Victorian structure built in 1890 as the Technical Institute and Free Library. The Technical Institute originally housed Tonbridge Grammar School on its top floor from 1905 to 1913 and later became an art school. The other building was purpose-built in conjunction with the University of Kent and was opened in 1984.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

The Tonbridge Adult Education Centre specialises in craft courses and has a fine reputation for stained glass, sugarcraft, floristry, silversmithing, jewellery, and cookery. It is well equipped with art and craft studios.

KAE Logo.pdf

1

21/04/2014

11:28

Tunbridge Wells Built in 1902, the original Art Nouveau-style building was designed by well-known English architect Henry T Hare, who designed several distinguished buildings. The current listed building is three stories high and an attractive base for learning in the heart of the town.

The Tunbridge Wells Centre offers a range of courses and has specialist studios for pottery and silversmithing. Its fantastic art studios have provided students with inspiration for many years.

www.kentadulteducation.co.uk

LOV E NEWS

13

WHAT’S ON

Get out and about with our pick of local events

17 May Melvyn Tan Finchcocks Musical Museum, Goudhurst Melvyn Tan has built up a formidable international reputation as a versatile keyboard player, performing both on the fortepiano and modern piano. www.finchcocks.co.uk

18 May Hike for the Homeless!

Starts 9am from Shipbourne Village Hall Tonbridge-based charity, The Bridge Trust, is seeking walkers to take part in the Tonbridge Lions Charity Walk to raise vital funds for the Trust’s work with single homeless adults in West Kent. For more information contact Caroline Dunmall at The Bridge Trust on 01732 368363 or email cdunmall@thebridgetrust.org.uk 22 May Frant Festival of Music Frant Church The music of Sidney Bechet, Django Reinhardt, Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong and others. From New Orleans, clarinet virtuoso Evan Christopher with Jacob Fischer (guitar) Sebastien Giradot (bass) and Dave Kelbie (rhythm guitar).

25 May Classic Car Event Burrswood, Groomsbridge Take part in a Classic Car Rally or just come and see the display of magnificent automobiles in a classic country house setting. www.burrswood.org.uk 25–26 May West Kent Country Show The Hop Farm, Paddock Wood Masses to see and do: jousting with the Knights of the Damned, birds of prey display, arts and crafts marquees, bouncy castle and fairground and lots more for the whole family. www.thehopfarm.co.uk

Learn how to care for your Bonsai tree at Chiddingstone Castle 20 June Jessie J Bedgebury Pinetum Jessie J at Bedgebury Pinetum Forest Live is an independent programme organised by the Forestry Commission to bring music to new audiences without commercial branding or sponsorship. Income is spent on improving the woodland for people and wildlife. www.forestry.gov.uk/bedgebury 21 June Midsummer Fun Day Pepenbury, Pembury A fun day for all the family with a hog roast, craft stalls, open studio, garden plant sale, tour of the site, and Learning Disability Week celebrations. www.pepenbury.info 21 June Speldhurst Village Fete Craft Village The Craft Village comprises around 25 craft stalls in and around a large marquee and sits at the heart of the popular Speldhurst village fete.

8 June Open Farm Sunday Romshed Farm, Underriver, Sevenoaks Annual event where hundreds of farmers across the UK open their farm to the public for one Sunday. Discover what it means to be a farmer and see how British food is produced. Activities include tours, nature walks, tractor and trailer rides, mini farmers’ markets and animal encounters. www.romshedfarm.co.uk

22 June Tonbridge Lions Summer Carnival and Fete Tonbridge High Street and Tonbridge Castle This major annual event begins with the Carnival Procession through the High Street. If you want to take part in the procession, this year’s theme will be the Swinging Sixties. To apply for a place in the procession contact Barrie Bromley on 01732 851415. www.tonbridgelions.co.uk

15 June Japanese Day Chiddingstone Castle This popular celebration of Japanese crafts and culture can be enjoyed by the whole family with demonstrations throughout the day of Kyudo (archery), Tameshigiri and Lai (sword arts), and the care of Bonsai trees. There will also be Ikebana (flower arranging) to admire and a recital of Japanese music in the Great Hall. www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk

29 June Summer, plant, garden and produce fair Pashley Manor Gardens, Ticehurst Selected nurseries, garden-related companies and local food and drink producers will be exhibiting, including suppliers specialising in unusual plants as well as a wide range of perennials, shrubs, bedding plants, vegetable plants, herbs and more. Come along to gain inspiration and the ingredients to transform your own garden. www.pashleymanorgardens.com

For more events, visit www.kudoskent.co.uk KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

LOV E EV ENTS

15

FASHIONISTA

What are you looking forward to this summer? We took a walk round Tunbridge Wells to ask our local fashionistas what they were wearing and about their sunny summer plans

ALEX HIBBIT

Top and blue print pencil skirt, both Jigsaw.

SUN SPOT: Colourful clothes, sunny days and holidays.

MARCUS GRAY

Cap, Kingspun. Hoodie, Bape. Jeans, True Religion. Trainers, Gazelle. Shades, D&G. SUN SPOT: Unfest & our Firestarter Exhibition featuring Dirty Bleeder.

16

LOV E FASHION

CAROLINE JAY

Jacket, Topshop. Tousers, H&M. Boots, Firetrap.

SUN SPOT: Local music festivals and barbecues on the Common.

ANNA MILCHEM

Jumper, New Look. Skirt, Asos.

Shades, River Island.

SUN SPOT: Sister’s wedding.

AZMI

ZENO

Azmi (dad): Shirt, Topshop.

T-shirt, Primark.

Trousers and T-shirt, Hoodie, Z8. Jeans, H&M. both New Look. Shoes, Vans.

Shoes, Converse.

Shades, Prada.

SUN SPOT: The sun!

MATT LUCAS

Hoodie, Criminal Damage. Jeans, Topman. Trainers, Converse.

SUN SPOT: Unfest and local music festivals.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

PETS CORNER

We all love our pets, but often they are not the little angels we would like them to be. It’s time to name and shame your pet!

I may be cute but in just four years I have stolen the office chair and wake my owners up at 5am

I like to sneak under the covers when Dad’s not looking!

I might be Pedigree, but I catch rodents by the score!

Maali, a white tabby, who lives with his staff in Crowborough

Marnie, a white Staffie, who lives in Uckfield

Raffi, a British Shorthair silver tabby, who lives in Sevenoaks

My favourite trick is to carry ALL my toys in my mouth at once

I shouldn’t have eaten Dad’s chilli!

Don’t you dare change the channel, I’m watching Crufts!

Inca, a black Labrador, who lives in Sevenoaks

Freddie, a Larzarapso/Bichon Frisée/Shih Tzu cross, who lives in Maidstone

Mr. Darcy, a French Bulldog, who lives in Tunbridge Wells

If you have a pet to name and shame, email a photograph and details to editorial@badbettymedia.co.uk

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

LOV E PETS

19

WINNING STREAK As the summer of sport kicks off, we look at the career of local Olympian Dame Kelly Holmes, whose efforts now are in inspiring young people to achieve success

Picture JUN TSUKIDA/REX

20

LOV E CELEBRIT Y

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

“I wanted to join the Army, and to be an Olympic champion.

I’ve managed both”

On her website, Dame Kelly Holmes introduces herself as “mad, funnyish and whatever else people think I am”. Add to that committed, dedicated and caring, and you may be nearer the truth. Her professional sporting career may be over, but she’s now determined to inspire and support young people through her Dame Kelly Holmes Legacy Trust.

Kelly, 37, was born in Pembury Hospital and brought up in Tonbridge. As the only mixed-race child growing up in her village in the early 1970s, things were tough for Kelly as a child. She was brought up by her white mother after her biological father left when she was just a year old. Kelly’s mum struggled to cope, being young and on her own, and Kelly found herself in and out of care homes. It wasn’t until her mum met her stepfather that things gradually became more settled. It was a loving home, but the family always struggled for money. Very early on, Kelly learned to work hard for everything she had.

There was never any doubt in her mind about what she wanted to achieve. “I’ve known what I wanted to do since I was 14,” she says. “I wanted to join the Army, and to be an Olympic champion. I’ve managed both.”

After her PE teacher at school told her she was good at running, her mum and stepdad realised her potential and began taking her to cross-country races. Kelly recalls they weren’t pushy parents, but they were happy to support her.

Although her athletics career looked promising, at the age of 17 Kelly decided to put her running on hold in order to join the British Army. She was later recognised for her services to the military when she received her MBE after almost 10 years’ service. But watching the Barcelona Olympic Games from her barracks room on camp, she was inspired to return to the track in 1992.

The build-up to the Athens Olympic Games was the first year in seven that Kelly wasn’t injured, and she made the decision to double up in the 800m and 1500m. She became the first British female athlete to win both the 800m and 1500m, securing her place in history.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

LOV E CELEBRIT Y

21

“My first mentoring programme came from a dream I had, that I could help people. I woke up, wrote it down, and my DKH Legacy Trust has been going seven years now”

However, that success came at a cost. In an interview on Piers Morgan’s Life Stories TV show, reported by The People newspaper, Kelly admitted she self-harmed in the run-up to her becoming double Olympic gold champion. She said at one point she even considered committing suicide as she couldn’t cope with the disappointment of the possibility of not winning a medal. Kelly began cutting herself in the year before her remarkable double gold at the Athens Olympics in 2004. But despite the pressure, she never gave up in her search for sporting stardom.

and Europeans. She also won numerous awards, including the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award in 2004, and was knighted by the Queen in 2005.

She said: “It was desperation. There were lows. Nobody would think someone as strong as me would go through that.

I was in a complete and utter mess.”

Kelly wanted to create a legacy from her athletics career that would benefit young people, believing every child needs a hero – someone to look up to and be inspired by. Sometimes, through no fault of their own, young people don’t have a role model, or the help they really need to be the best they can be. Kelly can recall her PE teacher at school, who told her she was good at running. She believes it can take just one person to change the course of a young person’s life.

She said she covered up the marks as she repeatedly injured herself at a training camp in France leading up to the world championships. Asked whether she ever considered taking her own life, Dame Kelly replied: “At one stage, yes. Because I couldn’t cope with the disappointment.

“The Olympics were the following year and it was my last chance.” She says the pressure was enormous to win at the Athens Games and she still has the scars after suffering 23 injuries in the run-up to the Games.

She finished her illustrious career with 12 major championship medals from the Olympics, Worlds, Commonwealth Games

22

LOV E CELEBRIT Y

Since retiring, Kelly hasn’t rested on her laurels. She’s been busy with her mentoring programme, the DKH Legacy Trust.

“My first mentoring programme came from a dream I had, that I could help people,” she says. “I woke up, wrote it down, and my DKH Legacy Trust has been going seven years now.”

That’s why, on the eve of the Beijing Olympics in 2008, she founded the DKH Legacy Trust, with a vision to get young lives on track using the unique skills of world-class athletes to engage, enable and empower disadvantaged young people.

She has also formed Kelly Holmes Education, which creates bespoke sport-education programmes to help individuals fulfil their sporting potential and realise their dreams.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

Picture JUN TSUKIDA/REX

Now a leader in sport education in the UK, Kelly Holmes Education delivers a range of national programmes alongside Local Authority partners, schools, colleges and universities.

Over the past five years, the development of new programmes has supported talented performers of all ages across the UK, plus their crucial support team including parents, carers and coaches.

“There are now over one million 16-to-25-year-olds not in education, employment or training in the UK,” says Kelly. “That’s nearly one in five of all young people. From listening to the young people on our programmes, we know the reasons why they are in this situation are multiple. Some are carers; others have a disability or learning difficulty. Some are homeless; or have had challenging upbringings with no role models. Others have had a better start in life, but are struggling to find work in a crowded job market at the tail end of a recession. Every young person we come across is different, but all are willing to at least try to turn things around.”

Part of the DKH Legacy Trust is Get on Track, which uses sport to create a brighter future for some of the country’s most marginalised young people. Sport England has invested £6.9 million into the programme and over the next four years Get on Track will engage with more than 3,000 vulnerable young people aged between 16 and 25 and provide them with a stepping stone into community sport. Over a 16-session period, each young person will be supported through a

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

tailored sport and personal development programme by a team of Olympic, Paralympic, World and Commonwealth athlete mentors.

The young people are able to choose from a range of sports that are offered through the programme and are expected to take part in at least one sport activity during each of the 16 sessions. To encourage them to keep playing sport, athlete mentors work with the young people to explore how sport can fit into their everyday lives and how they can get involved locally.

Many of the young people supported by the programme have a history of being disengaged from formal structures, so Get on Track also supports and trains local clubs and coaches to understand the needs of the young people, therefore making it easier for the Get on Track graduates to make the transition into community sport.

The programme also supports the wider outcomes of moving young people into employment and training. Says Kelly: “Last year, 80% of young people we supported made a positive change in their lives and 75% were ready for sport, training, education, volunteering and/or employment.

By 2016, we’ll reach 200,000 young people.”

Research has shown that many athletes need help to transition into post-competitive career lives and most have

LOV E CELEBRIT Y

23

Picture M Watanabe/REX

24

LOV E CELEBRIT Y

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

Picture Mark Large/Daily Mail/REX

traits that make them ideal role models and mentors for young people. There is no other organisation that provides a long-term support mechanism for these athletes to develop from their sport and utilise their exceptional experience and expertise to benefit others in the community.

Says Kelly: “I want to build a brand that will grow to be synonymous with quality products and inspirational services and experiences.”

With success comes friends in high places. Kelly has spoken of her friendship with the Duchess of Cambridge after sitting near her at the women’s hockey at London 2012 – now she calls her Kate. She also revealed Tom Cruise once asked her out on a date after they met on chat show Parkinson. But she turned down the invite to the premiere of his movie Collateral – and he ended up taking his then girlfriend Katie Holmes, who he went on to marry.

Despite achieving so much, there is still more that Kelly wants to do. “I am a petrol head and want to get all my licences.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

I already have a heavy goods licence and I want to get my motorsports and motorbike licences.”

She has also been given the go-ahead to open a cafe in Hildenborough. Despite some objections from residents, she has been given planning permission to redevelop a former newsagent’s shop in Tonbridge Road.

After the decision, she tweeted that “today is a very good day”. In a letter supporting her application, she said she hoped the cafe would be “a central hub for locals to meet friends, colleagues and socialise”. Kelly is also developing a chain of frozen yoghurt and juice bars.

She is still determined to push herself physically and mentally, recently taking part in a duathlon, an event which combines the disciplines of running and cycling.

For more on DKH Legacy Trust, visit www.dkhlegacytrust.org

LOV E CELEBRIT Y

25

A WORK OF ART Fancy looking pretty as a picture for summer, but not sure where to draw the line? Sally-Ann Carroll and the Kudos team met local artists Jessica, Linda and Marigold for a day of art, glamour and the odd brushstroke or two.

Have we created a masterpiece? I think so!

28

LOV E FASHION

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

NO STRINGS ATTACHED

Jessica is wearing: Floral dress, £159, from Hobbs. Sandals, £99, from Mint Velvet.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

LOV E FASHION

29

EASEL DOES IT

Marigold is wearing: Printed dress, £85, from Etoile Womenswear, Sevenoaks. Suede belt, £59, from Jigsaw. Shoes, £155, from Daniel Footwear. Necklace, £15, from Bod & Ted. 30

LOV E FASHION

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

ARTISTS UNVEILED

Linda is wearing: Printed dress, £199, from Mousetrap, Sevenoaks. Sandals, £28, from Next. Earrings, £25, from Sahara.

Necklace, £58.50, and cuff, £15.99, both from Danish Collection, Riverhead and Sevenoaks.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

LOV E FASHION

31

PAINT-TASTIC

Jessica is wearing: Printed maxi dress, £99, from Kitch. Shoes, £139, from Hobbs.

Feather earrings, £43.99, from Danish Collection, Riverhead and Sevenoaks.

32

LOV E FASHION

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

GRIDLOCK

Linda is wearing: Printed dress, £45, from Next. Shoes, £129, from Daniel Footwear. Necklace, £14.99, from Danish Collection, Riverhead and Sevenoaks. Earrings, £24, from Sahara. Gold cuff, £69, from Hobbs.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

LOV E FASHION

33

PICTURE PERFECT

Marigold is wearing: Coral printed shirt, £140, and lime top, £32, both from Bod & Ted. Coral jeans, £199, from Kitch. Shoes, £149, Hobbs. Blue leather backpack, £300, by Fleming London, www.fleminglondon.co.uk 34

LOV E FASHION

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

OFF THE RAIL

Top row (left to right): Grey printed trousers, £129, from Bod & Ted. Red check dress, £85, from Laura Ashley. Tropical print jumpsuit, £42, from Next. Meadow print silk dress, £139, from Mint Velvet. Ethnic print dress, £89, from Jigsaw.

Bottom row (left to right): Printed top with twist front detail, £69, from Kitch. Stripe and beach print dress, £60, from Bod & Ted. Paintbrush stroke top, £98, from Jigsaw. Flocked orange top, £89, from Etoile Womenswear, Sevenoaks.

Grey printed and lace dress, £159, from Etoile Womenswear, Sevenoaks.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

LOV E FASHION

35

ONE OF THESE ARTISTIC CREATIONS WILL INSTANTLY COMPLETE THE LOOK Top row (left to right): Pink tassel and turquoise necklace, £59, from Kitch. Pink hippie bracelet, £79, from Kitch. Turquoise and pink earrings, £29, from Sahara. Bottom row (left to right): Bronze heart necklace, £17.99, from Danish Collection, Riverhead and Sevenoaks. Turquoise and pink bracelet, £27.50, from Sahara. Turquoise and pink necklace, £39, from Sahara.

CREDITS

Fashion Editor: Sally-Ann Carroll Assisted by Sara Clover Photographer: Matt Harquail (mattharquail.co.uk) Hair and make-up: Lauren Saunders (www.lauren-saunders.com) using MAC and Clare Osborne (clare-osborne@hotmail.com) using MAC. Thanks to Kent Adult Education in Tunbridge Wells for allowing us to photograph in their classrooms.

Jessica, Linda and Marigold were our top supermodels for the day. If you are interested in being part of our fabulous fashion, please email a recent picture with relevant details to editorial@badbettymedia.co.uk

36

LOV E FASHION

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

Artists Unveiled and the Kudos team at our fashion shoot

CALLING ALL ARTISTS A new art project is looking for local artists to show their work. Could you be the next Picasso?

Artists Unveiled is the passion-project launched by local artists, Liam Rogers and Kate Sims. After meeting on Twitter last spring, the two Tunbridge Wells transplants – who hail from London and Boston, Massachussetts, respectively – became fast friends and started buzzing about an idea that would connect artists with unique spaces and opportunities around the town, and thereby unveil their talent, as Kate explains.

How did Artists Unveiled start? What both of us bonded over was the fact that there seemed to be a gap in the market for contemporary art to be viewed and experienced in a really engaging way. After many conversations, Artists Unveiled was born with the mission to match local, contemporary artists with spaces to put on one-off exhibitions and events. We want to encourage people to view art in experiential ways and we want our exhibitions to challenge the viewer to see the art, and to interact with it.

so if you (yes, you) know of any spaces that might be available for hosting an art event or exhibition, please get in touch!

How can artists get involved? Putting together our exhibitions is like creating a bouquet; we need to know what artist’s work will complement another’s so the exhibition is balanced, interesting and evocative for the viewer. To get a sense for the work that’s being created, we’re always accepting submissions from local artists. That way, when a space becomes available that is ideal for a particular event, we can contact the artists that we think will best suit the theme and create something really special.

To give you an idea of what’s ahead, we’re pulling together exhibitions that explore the themes of mental health, light, and the idea of the lens. If your work addresses any of these themes (or even if it doesn’t) check out the full descriptions online and send us a submission form.

What’s on? We’re incredibly fortunate to be collaborating with Perk and Pearl, where we help to curate a permanent gallery, The Mind Your Head Gallery. As far as we know, it’s the smallest gallery in Kent, but we’re doing loads of big things with it!

How can artists and spaces get in touch with you? www.artists-unveiled.com // artistsunveiled@gmail.com // @artistsunveiled on Twitter.

What’s upcoming? We have a number of events planned for summer and autumn (you can find them on our website!), but some of what we want to do is still contingent on finding spaces.

The two of us are never short on ideas, but we are short on spaces,

To help us create this issue, Artists Unveiled collaborated with us and chose three super-talented local artists to model and feature work in our Love Fashion feature. Meet Linda, Jessica and Marigold over the page.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

LOV E FASHION

37

ARTISTS IN FOCUS Kate Sims from Artists Unveiled interviews the three local artists from our fab fashion shoot Being an artist is often a solitary endeavour. Can you tell us about how you work? Is there a method behind the madness? I very much have to be in the right frame of mind to work and am then completely oblivious to everything else going on around me.

I have an art room at home which is tucked away.

What are your feelings about the local art scene? Fortunately, Tunbridge Wells seems to be becoming more art-aware. In order for everyone to enjoy galleries, I think we should make them more friendly, offer art at all price ranges and encourage dialogue about art; it should be for everyone. Hopefully, if the economy continues to improve, we will see, as in Europe, a greater investment in art in all areas of life.

What’s the next big project or piece you’re working on? My next project will be taking part in the South East Open Studios in June.

I am also part of a group of artists called The View.

Linda Pocock

Where can readers find you? linda-pocock@sky.com

Where are you from? I was born in Nairobi, Kenya, but I’ve spent nearly all my life in Kent.

Where do you currently live? Tunbridge Wells.

Favourite colour: That’s a very difficult question! It changes on any given day, the light and my mood, but if I had to say, it’s probably halfway between indigo and violet.

Preferred medium: I would say I am a mixed-media artist. I like to experiment with different materials and ideas. I’ve used corrosives in lino-cut prints, melted acetate to form petals and made insect collages from selected images of the human form.

Tell us a little about your art: I have always had a passion for photography and my most recent work involves the capture of reflective images, which I then layer. I also undertake commissions for heirlooms and keepsakes by combining images of poems, documents, jewellery, photographs and anything that can be photocopied, and combine this with silk organza and embroidery.

The result is hopefully a very personal, beautiful piece of artwork.

What is the first piece of art that you can remember being proud of?

I was in year 2 of primary school. I remember drawing a camel which was something to do with a story we had been reading. I rather suspect it didn’t look much like a camel but I was very proud of it!

All artists need a well of inspiration to draw from. What inspires you?

Lots of different things. It can be a conceptual idea, such as different people’s views of what they think “success” means. I did this recently and it was absolutely fascinating. This initial idea could be a starter for many months of work. On the other hand, being a very visual person, I can very easily be inspired by a shape or colour in nature.

I am also inspired by many other artists’ work. I love the feather work of Kate MccGwire, the installations of Susie MacMurray and the craftsmanship of Susan Collis, whose work I first saw at an exhibition at the V&A.

38

LOV E ART

Jessica Exall Where are you from? I was born in Tonbridge and still live there.

Favourite colour: Turquoise blue.

Preferred medium: I don’t have a preferred medium.

Tell us a little about your art: I am an illustrator and puppet-maker.

My work is about bringing out the beauty and uniqueness in living things, that others may not consider beautiful. I am interested in nature and enjoy finding the strange and bizarre in wildlife and documenting it with inks.

What is the first piece of art that you can remember being proud of?

I can’t remember that far back, but I have always been proud of what I have produced. My first memory of being proud of my art was at secondary school. I had amazing teachers that let me

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

experiment with different media and really encouraged me to make what I wanted. When I was in year 8, they let me make a shark the size of the classroom out of willow branches. I was so proud of the sculpture I wanted to show it off and hang it in my garden. Sadly, my dog squashed it.

Where do you currently live? Tunbridge Wells

All artists need a well of inspiration to draw from. What inspires you to create? I take inspiration from where I live. I live in the countryside and our garden is always filled with wildlife such as pheasants, partridges, squirrels, rabbits and green woodpeckers.

We have a bird reserve over our fence and we sometimes have lapwings and geese visiting our garden. I love history and enjoy hearing stories and myths about our British wildlife. Some folklore stories help me come up with the personality and characters behind my puppets.

Preferred medium: I paint portraits in oils. I find it such a versatile medium with the potential to produce such varied results. I’ve painted in oil paints for as long as I can remember; my dad always had paints lying around and never considered me too young to give them a go.

Being an artist is often a solitary endeavour. Can you tell us about how you work? Is there a method behind the madness? When I am working in my studio I have music or a film on in the background.

I can’t work in silence; I find it distracts me. I like to work quickly when I am painting; the only thing I take my time with is when I sculpt the head and hands of my puppets. I don’t like to picture what my final image will look like; I enjoy the process and experimenting with different media.

What are your feelings about the local art scene? I graduated from Bournemouth Art University College in 2012 and for a while I found it hard not knowing any other creative people when I came home. Now I enjoy being a part of the local art community. I like talking to other creative people, it helps me stay creative and inspired. I’ve been overwhelmed by the support people in Tunbridge Wells have given me since I graduated.

What’s the next big project or piece you’re working on? My next project is a children’s book about one of my favourite animals, a tapir, and her baby.

Where can readers find you? Twitter – @jeexall // www.jeexall.tumblr.com // Instagram – @jeexall

Favourite colour: Indecisive about this one. Colour is obviously an important part of any artist’s life and it probably changes with the seasons, but I’ve been going on about teal a lot recently!

Tell us a little about your art: Painting portraits is something I’ve always been drawn to since I was a child, but I also get a lot out of other art forms these days. Alongside the portraits, I love printmaking, particularly etching, and when that’s not available to me, then I’ll print with lino and oil-based inks. I’m a big fan of simple line drawing. However, I plan to venture into using some colour in my prints in the near future and seeing what happens. I find the whole process of printmaking really rewarding, even when, on occasion, it can be frustrating.

What is the first piece of art that you can remember being proud of?

That’s a really hard question to answer. I think artists are usually their own toughest critic, so it’s hard to think of something that I’ve been enduringly proud of. Perhaps it was when I was in my late teens and I sculpted a head from clay for the first time, sold it and went on to do another clay head that I decided to have cast in bronze, using the proceeds from the first sale. These faces seemed to just emerge out of a lump of clay and I remember loving creating them.

All artists need a well of inspiration to draw from. What inspires you?

Art is a vital part of my life, like eating and breathing! Interesting faces always make me want to pick up a paint brush, as well as seeing other people’s art – I definitely find other artists very inspiring.

The best creative pick-me-up is going to look around the National Portrait Gallery.

Being an artist is often a solitary endeavour. Can you tell us about how you work? Is there a method behind the madness? It is a solitary endeavour, but I like it like that. It’s a time to be reflective and lose myself in whatever it is I’m creating. I tend to go into my little studio/sanctuary in my house after the school run, put on Radio 4 with a cup of tea and try to focus until I have to collect my children in the afternoon. It’s important to me to get as much produced in this time as possible, as my time is defined by my children’s school routine.

What are your feelings about the local art scene? There’s a lot of talented artists in the area and I think any opportunity to get them together, to work together, is fantastic and can only help TW to become a more vibrant community that shouts about the arts, rather than having us all hidden away in small enclaves. My experience is that being a successful artist can be a bit of an exclusive club, and that’s why I was so attracted to Artists Unveiled when I first read about them because they break that mould.

Marigold Plunkett Where are you from? The south east of England pretty much covers it. I was born in Guildford, moved to Shropshire for a few years as a small child, then moved to East Sussex and have moved around this area ever since.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

What’s the next big project or piece you’re working on? I’ve just finished a huge portrait, which I really wanted to attempt as I’ve never painted a portrait so much larger than life before. My next project is to explore lino printing some more, as you can create some really beautiful works of art with a piece of lino!

Where can readers find you? www.marigoldplunkett.co.uk // @marigold_p

LOV E ART

39

FRUITS OF YOUR LABOURS Whether you have a huge plot or just a few planters on the patio, growing fruit is satisfying – and the results are so good for you

Growing fruit is easy if you choose the right plants for your plot. It makes sense to grow your favourite fruit and freshness is an important part of the appeal. But take into account the ease of growing and whether any special growing conditions are needed.

Don’t forget that where room is at a premium, you can grow most fruit in containers. Training fruit into restricted forms, such as fans, espaliers and cordons up walls and fences also takes up comparatively-little room. And always make sure you choose fruit trees grafted onto dwarfing or semi-dwarfing rootstocks as this ensures trees keep to a reasonable size and are far more manageable than a towering standard tree.

Choose the right spot

Most important for positioning specific fruit crops is the site and aspect of your plot – light, temperature and exposure all have an important impact on the selection of fruit you can grow. Mapping out your garden, noting areas of shade and full sun is essential before you start planning and planting.

Some fruits are perfectly happy in a shady spot, whereas others need full sunlight and plenty of warmth to yield well. Gardeners with small enclosed gardens, balconies or courtyards may have to cope with a lot of shade and even

42

LOV E YOUR GARDEN

shady, north- or east-facing aspects; such areas can be used to grow fruit such as alpine strawberries, acid cherries, red and white currants, and gooseberries. Sunny, especially south- or west-facing aspects, on the other hand, are ideal for growing just about any fruit, but especially sun lovers such as grapes, figs, peaches, nectarines and apricots.

Hot and cold

Minimum temperatures are also an important consideration – only truly hardy plants will crop reliably in gardens where the temperature frequently falls below freezing. Gardeners in such conditions wanting to grow tender crops like citrus, pineapples or passion fruit will need the protection of a conservatory or heated greenhouse.

The majority of fruit trees flower early in the year, so need a sheltered site that attracts pollinating insects – predominantly bees. If they are discouraged from visiting flowers by strong winds, the flowers won’t be pollinated and the resulting fruit set will be very poor. If your garden is exposed, it’s a good idea to erect artificial, semi-permeable windbreaks to reduce the wind’s force, or plant screening trees or shrubs to provide shelter.

Damage from frosty weather is one of the most problematic issues for fruit gardeners. A badly-timed late frost can destroy all blossom open at that time and any young fruitlets, reducing

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

potential yield significantly. Frost can also damage the soft shoots and foliage of various crops, which can result in more serious plant failure. Because most fruit crops have to flower and ripen fruit all in one year, they come into blossom comparatively early in the year. This is especially true of peaches, nectarines, apricots, plums and pears, all of which are frequently in full blossom during late winter and early spring.

Protection

For the majority of gardeners, the main method of minimising frost damage is to protect vulnerable plants during sub-zero temperatures. This can be done by moving containerised plants to a more sheltered, frost-free position or by covering plants with protective materials.

Comparatively hardy crops, such as kiwifruit and grapes, are vulnerable to frost damaging their soft shoots and woody stems. A kiwifruit coming into leaf in spring can easily have all its foliage burnt off by a late frost, so it should be covered with a tent of horticultural fleece during this period. Conversely, the soft, unripened stems of a grape vine can be damaged by the first frost of autumn, causing them to die back. In this case it helps to position vines in a sunny, sheltered spot to help ripen the wood as much as possible before the onset of winter.

Polythene, horticultural fleece or glass cloches are useful for protecting the blossom of early strawberries, whereas fences or walls supporting fan-trained, cordon, fan or espalier trees can have a double layer of horticultural fleece attached to them and draped over the plant.

Whichever method of frost protection you choose, use it only when frosts are forecast and the plant is in blossom. Many temperate fruits need exposure to cold weather to break their seasonal dormancy, and pollinating insects need to be able to access the flowers during the day.

other to be really effective. Some fruit trees, such as Victoria plums and Stella cherries are self-fertile, so that insects pollinating their own flowers will lead to successful fruit set.

This is ideal in a small garden, as only one tree is needed to produce fruit. However, even self-fertile varieties tend to crop better when another cultivar is planted nearby for pollination.

As flowering time is critical, fruit trees are classified into various flowering groups, so that it is easy to choose cultivars that will flower at the same time and effect pollination.

Crab apples are particularly useful for pollinating apples as they produce an abundance of flowers over a long period.

Growing fruit in containers

If space is restricted, patio containers are often the only option, but far from being a poor choice this method of growing fruit offers many benefits. Most tree and bush fruit can be grown in containers, even apples and pears. The secret is choosing the right type of plant and training method.

All the tree fruits listed here will pollinate each other. However, the pollination group numbers (where applicable) are shown in brackets; aim to pick at least two trees of the same or adjacentnumbered pollination group. This matching of the groups is always done with the same fruit, such as apples, and will not work between different fruits such as apples and pears. These are just a few of the fruits suited to pot culture.

Apples, culinary: Arthur Turner (3), Bountiful (3) and Howgate Wonder (4) Apples, dessert/eating: Alkmene (2), Discovery (3), Falstaff (3), Fiesta (3), Greensleeves (3), Kidd’s Orange Red (3), Pixie (4) and Sunset (3) Apricots: Delicot, Tomcot and Moorpark are self-fertile Blueberries: For pots, choose half-height blueberries such as Northsky, Chippewa and Northcountry Cherries: Lapins, Sunburst and Stella are all self-fertile

The birds and the bees

To successfully produce fruit, the flowers need pollinating. This is usually done by flying insects like honey bees, bumblebees, flies, beetles and wasps.

Whereas most soft fruits produce compatible flowers and pollen, and are therefore self-fertile, many fruit trees have self-incompatible flowers, meaning that they need another different cultivar of the same fruit that flowers at the same time growing nearby to pollinate their flowers.

If you live in a built-up area there are likely to be other fruit trees growing in close proximity. This means there may be adequate pollination nearby and just the one tree will be enough in your garden. Although pollinating bees can travel between one and two miles, the general rule of thumb is that trees for cross-pollination should be within 50ft of each

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

Figs: Brown Turkey, Brunswick and White Marseilles (no pollinators are required) Grapes: Seyval Blanc, Siegerrebe and New York Muscat (no pollinators are required) Nectarines: Early Rivers and Nectarella are self-fertile Olives: Olea europaea, O. Aglandau and O. Cailletier are fairly hardy and self-fertile Peaches: Duke of York, Garden Anny, Garden Lady, Peregrine and Rochester are self-fertile Pears: Beth (4), Beurré Hardy (3), Concorde (3), Conference (3), Doyenné du Comice (4), Glou Morceau (4) and Red Comice (4) Plums: There are no suitable culinary cultivars, but the following dessert plums grow well in containers – Blue Tit, Opal and Victoria, which are self-fertile

LOV E YOUR GARDEN

43

Because it will be very heavy once filled, move the pot to its final position before potting up the plant. The pot should be set on bricks or pot feet to aid drainage. Place crocks in the bottom of the pot for drainage. Mix a loam-based potting compost, such as John Innes No. 3, with some controlled-release fertiliser in a large bucket or wheelbarrow and place some of the mix in the pot. Then set the tree in the pot; if the roots are too long for the pot, trim them with secateurs.

Fruit in a pot will probably need daily watering during dry periods in the growing season – never allow the compost to dry out.

Once the plant starts to flower, it may also need a liquid feed each week with a high potash fertiliser (such as tomato food) until the fruit begins to ripen. Feed annually in spring with a controlled-release fertiliser.

Once established, fruit may need to be repotted every two years.

The easiest way to do this is to lay the pot down on its side and gently ease out the plant. Scrape away any excess soil from the rootball and use a knife to cut through any roots that appear to be

44

LOV E YOUR GARDEN

restricting growth. Replant using fresh potting compost – again use John Innes No. 3 mixed with controlled-release fertiliser.

Strawberry fair

One fruit everyone can grow is strawberries. Strawberry plants can be grown almost anywhere – in borders, containers or hanging baskets. And home-grown strawberries taste delicious and are great value, too! Strawberries are traditionally grown in rows directly into the garden soil – avoid windy sites which will prevent pollinating insects from reaching the flowers. In poor soils, grow in raised beds which improves drainage and increases rooting depth. Alternatively, try containers or grow-bags.

The Royal Horticultural Society’s website has a wealth of information on gardening. It is one of the world’s leading horticultural organisations and the UK’s leading gardening charity. An interest in gardening is all you need to enjoy being a member of the RHS. www.rhs.org.uk

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

LOV E BEAUT Y

45

CATCH OF THE DAY Packed with vitamins and minerals, and a major source of omega-3 fatty acids, fish is a vital part of a healthy diet. Our delicious fish and shellfish recipes not only taste good, they’re good for you, too!

MEDITERRANEAN TUNA

TIGER PRAWNS WITH GOAT’S CHEESE

This dish has all the flavours we associate with Italy and it looks as good as it tastes

Langoustines or Dublin Bay prawns are very meaty and sweet – but they can be expensive to buy. So if you’d prefer to spend a bit less, just substitute with large cooked tiger prawns

Ingredients (Serves 4): 2 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1 stick of celery, chopped 450g fresh tomatoes, chopped 1 tbsp tomato purée Pinch of sugar 4 tuna steaks 50g black olives, pitted and sliced 1 tbsp pine nuts 1 tbsp sultanas 4 tbsp capers, drained Salt and black pepper Parsley, to garnish Method: 1. Heat half the oil in a saucepan, add the onion, garlic and celery and cook until just beginning to soften.

2. Add the tomatoes, tomato purée, sugar, salt and black pepper, mix well then partially cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring from time to time.

3. Preheat the oven to 180˚C/350˚F/gas mark 4. Heat the remaining oil in a large frying pan, add the fish and pan-fry for 4-5 minutes on each side until lightly browned.

4. Meanwhile, add the capers, olives, sultanas and pine nuts and simmer for 2 minutes, stirring.

Ingredients (Serves 4): 400g pasta ribbons 120ml low-fat fromage frais 1 garlic clove, crushed 150g soft goat’s cheese 16 cooked langoustines, shelled 2 tbsp freshly-chopped tarragon 4 ripe tomatoes, diced Method: 1. Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook for 7-10 minutes (check pack for instructions) or until the pasta is firm to the bite. Drain and return to the pan with a drizzle of oil.

2. Pour the fromage frais into a pan and heat gently. Do not boil. Add the garlic and whisk in the goat’s cheese until melted and well blended.

3. Add the langoustines and cook for 3-4 minutes or until warmed through.

4. Add the drained pasta to the pan with the tarragon and tomatoes.

5. Serve with a sprig of tarragon.

5. Spoon the tomato sauce into four bowls and top with the tuna.

6. Garnish with the parsley and serve.

46

LOV E FOOD

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

BOUILLABAISSE

SEA BASS WITH WATERCRESS

This is perhaps the most famous of all the Mediterranean fish soups, originating from Marseilles

Toasted almonds and peppery watercress in a sherry vinegar dressing are the perfect match for delicious pan-fried sea bass fillets. Patting the fillets dry with kitchen paper before you cook them will prevent the fillets from sticking to the pan and help to crisp the skin

Ingredients (Serves 4-6): 1.5kg mixed fish and shellfish 1.2 litres water 225g tomatoes Pinch of saffron threads 6 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, sliced 1 leek, sliced 1 celery stick, sliced 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1 bouquet garni 1 strip pared orange rind ½ tsp fennel seeds 1 tbsp tomato purée 2 tsp Pernod 4-6 slices French bread 3 tbsp parsley, chopped Salt and black pepper Method: 1. Remove the heads, tails and fins from the fish and put in a large pan with the water. Bring to the boil then simmer for 15 minutes. Strain and reserve the liquid.

2. Cut the fish into large chunks. Leave the shellfish in their shells.

3. Scald the tomatoes then drain and refresh in cold water. When cool, peel and chop them. Soak the saffron in 15-30ml hot water.

4. Heat the oil in a large pan, add the onion, leek and celery and cook until soft. Add the garlic, bouquet garni, orange rind, fennel seeds and tomatoes. Stir in the saffron and liquid and the fish stock. Season, bring to the boil and simmer for 30-40 minutes.

5. Add the shellfish and boil for about 6 minutes. Discard any closed clams and mussels. Add the fish and cook for 6-8 minutes until it flakes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fish to a warm serving plate.

6. Keep the liquid boiling. Add the purée and Pernod. Check the seasoning.

Place a slice of bread in each bowl, pour the broth over then spoon out the fish separately. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

Ingredients (Serves 4): 100g blanched almonds 4x150g sea bass fillets Sea salt and pepper Olive oil for cooking 1 large bunch watercress, trimmed For the dressing: 3 tbsp olive oil 1 ½ tbsp sherry vinegar 1 ½ tbsp thin honey 1 shallot, chopped Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 180oC, gas mark 4. Toast the almonds in the oven for 10 minutes, turning until nicely browned. Cool, break up with a rolling pin and set aside.

2. Pat the sea bass fillets dry with kitchen paper. Make 2 or 3 shallow cuts in the skin of each fillet, stopping 1cm before you reach the other side.

Season the skin with salt.

3. Thinly coat the bottom of a heavy-based frying pan with olive oil. Place over a high heat until it smokes.

4. Put the sea bass fillets, skin side down, in the pan. Season the up side.

Cook over a high heat for about 3 minutes until the fillets begin to caramelise.

5. Turn them and cook for a further 2 minutes. Remove and rest in a warm place for 5 minutes.

6. Whisk the dressing ingredients together. Toss the watercress with the dressing in a large bowl.

7. Divide the salad onto plates and place the sea bass on top. Scatter the almonds over and spoon on any remaining dressing. Serve.

LOV E FOOD

47

HERB-STUFFED SALMON WITH ROASTED VEG

FRIT MARINER

A deliciously-fragrant way to serve this popular fish

The bold flavours of this rustic dish make it a firm favourite. Leave the tail shells on the prawns if you prefer to eat them with your fingers

Ingredients (Serves 6-8): 7 tbsp olive oil Knob of butter 1 small onion 2 courgettes, finely chopped 4 tbsp white wine 2 tbsp parsley, chopped 1 tsp thyme, chopped 4 sprigs fresh tarragon Sprigs of lemon thyme 2 whole salmon fillets Salt and black pepper 3 fennel bulbs, trimmed and quartered 1kg baby new potatoes 400g small carrots, peeled and halved 2 lemons Method: 1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil and the butter in a pan and cook the onion for 3-4 minutes.

2. Add the courgettes and cook for 4-5 minutes. Turn up the heat, add the wine and cook until the liquid evaporates. Season and allow to cool.

3. Stir in the chopped herbs and set to one side.

4. Wash and dry the salmon fillets and remove any bones. Place on fillet, skin side down, on the work surface. Season, then heap the herb stuffing over the fillet and place the second fillet, skin side up, on top. Tie the fish together with string at intervals.

5. Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil. Add the fennel and cook for 4-5 minutes. Remove the fennel and set aside. Add the potatoes and carrots to the pan, cook for 5 minutes, then drain.

6. Place a single layer of fennel, potatoes and carrots in a large roasting tin. Add 5 tbsp oil to the vegetables and squeeze in the juice of half a lemon. Season.

7. Preheat the oven to 200oC/390oF/gas mark 6. Roast the vegetables for 10 minutes, stirring once. Drizzle the fish with the remaining oil and place it on top of the vegetables. Squeeze the second half of the cut lemon over the fish.

8. Stir the vegetables to coat them in the oil. Roast for 50 minutes, or until the fish is just cooked in the centre, basting once or twice.

9. Serve the fish on a bed of roasted vegetables.

48

LOV E FOOD

Ingredients (Serves 4): 500g medium raw prawns 500g squid, cleaned 125ml olive oil 2 onions, peeled and diced 2 potatoes, peeled and diced 1 aubergine, trimmed and diced 1 fennel bulb, trimmed and diced 2 large red peppers, cored, deseeded and diced 4 garlic cloves, sliced 1 chilli, deseeded and finely sliced Salt and pepper Large handful flat leaf parsley, chopped Lemon and crusty bread to serve Method: 1. Shell and devein the prawns. Slice the squid into 1cm rings.

2. In a large, heavy-based frying pan, heat the olive oil until smoking, then fry the squid and prawns for 2-3 minutes until just cooked. Remove with a slotted spoon.

3. Add the onions, potatoes, aubergine, fennel, peppers, garlic and chilli to the pan.

4. Fry over a medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelised, about 45 minutes-1 hour. During the cooking, season the vegetables well with salt and pepper. Keep tasting and adjust as necessary.

5. Add the squid and prawns to the vegetables and cook for 2 minutes.

Add the chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges and crusty bread.

You can find these recipes, along with others, on our website: www.kudoskent.co.uk

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

SPREAD THE LOVE

Forget plain old lemon curd. The Curd Herd from Scarlett & Mustard is a new breed of fruit curd featuring four delightfully-different and utterly-delicious varieties. There’s Luscious Passionfruit & Lemon Curd, Luxurious Lime & Mint Curd, Heavenly Blackcurrant & Star Anise Curd and Opulent Orange Zesty Curd, all bursting with fresh fruit and flavour.

Price: £3.30 for 210g.

Available from farm shops and independent retailers across the UK. www.scarlettandmustard.co.uk

SIZZLING SAUSAGES

Fancy a sausage treat that’s got 90% less fat, 50% fewer calories and 35% less salt than your normal sausage? Secret Sausages make these healthy gluten-free vegetarian sausages that contain less than 4% fat.

Choose from Lincolnshire, Cumberland, Chilli and Coriander, Rosemary and Garlic, Honey Bee and Cheese and Spring Onion.

Price: £3.49 for a pack of six.

Available online at Ocado, selected Whole Foods stores nationwide, and online at www.secret-sausages.com

LET’S EAT!

A round-up of the latest foodie news

SWEET TREAT

Made with coconut milk, Pudology puds are dairy- and gluten-free, creamy and full of flavour. There’s Chocolate, made with rich, dark chocolate and a hint of vanilla; Strawberry combined with coconut; Banoffee with layers of chocolate ganache, toffee sauce and banana; and tangy Lemon. Price: £3.45 for two puds. From selected Sainsbury’s and Waitrose stores, or online from Ocado. www.pudology.com

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

BANANARAMA

Spice up your snacks with Howdah Peppered Banana Chips and Masala Banana Chips from Spices of India. From warm black pepper and earthy cumin to fiery chilli and hot spices, these flavoured banana chips are based on an old Keralan recipe – perfect for spicing up a party or as an alternative dipper for smooth hummus or cooling raita. Price: £2.45 for 100g (plus P&P). www.spicesofindia.co.uk

LOV E FOOD

49

7 DAYS TO ENERGISE YOUR LIFE Feeling sluggish? Follow our week-long plan and get your zest for life back

Is your get-up-and-go a long-distant memory? Do you seem to spend your days rushing from one life crisis to the next, then flopping exhausted on the sofa in the evening? Are you constantly dreaming of things that you’d love to do, but just don’t seem to be able to summon up the energy to achieve any of them?

If so, you may be in the grip of an energy crisis – like most people in the UK. A recent survey found that 86% of participants woke up still feeling tired and low in energy.

This is hardly surprising, as we’re also working much longer hours, travelling further to our places of work, and, in many cases, attempting to juggle work, family and social life.

Add these pressures to the normal stresses and strains of modern life and you end up with a recipe for zero energy and zero fun.

It’s easy to feel that you can’t get on top of your energy problems. But take heart – putting the zip back into your step doesn’t mean putting your life on hold.

33% The amount your metabolism slows down every decade Day 1

Quit the sugar habit

When it comes to energy-sapping substances, sugar’s got to be top of the list. There’s nothing wrong with the occasional choccy bar or sweet treat, a little of what you fancy does you good – but these days sugar is everywhere, and you could be eating tons of the stuff without realising it.

50

LOV E YOUR HEALTH

“Low energy is a huge problem, and diets that are high in both obvious and sneaky, hidden sugars are largely to blame,” says Martha Roberts, co-author with Nicki Waterman of The Sugar Addicts’ Diet.

“Statistics show that we eat the equivalent of 24 bags of sugar each and every year – around 13 teaspoons a day – and that has to be coming from somewhere. For most people, it comes from refined carbohydrates such as white bread, treats like cakes, croissants and pastries, refined breakfast cereals, not to mention processed foods – even savoury ones, such as some ready meals.”

Many of us reach for a sugary snack as a way of boosting our flagging energy in the middle of the afternoon. But that’s just a short-term fix that will make you feel worse in the long run. Refined carbs are broken down into glucose so quickly in the blood that they can give you the kind of energy high followed by a low that eating pure sugar does. This blood-sugar rollercoaster can be extremely addictive, but it’s also pretty exhausting and goes some way to explaining why so many of us complain of feeling tired and drained all of the time.

TODAY’S TASK: “If you’re a sugar junkie, don’t make the mistake of trying to go ‘cold turkey’,” says Martha. “It really is like a drug – you’ll just end up craving it, so cut down gradually. Slowly replace those sugary snacks with regular meals containing complex carbohydrates. Try to snack on fruit or raw vegetables. After a couple of weeks you’ll be ready to dump most of the sugar in your diet as your tastebuds and body will adapt.”

TODAY’S TASTE: Carrots contain potassium, vitamin C,

vitamin B6, thiamine, folic acid, and magnesium. The old

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

wives’ tale of carrots helping you see in the dark is no lie: carrots contain beta-carotene, which is converted by the body into vitamin A, essential for eye health. Buy pure squeezed carrot juice, or try juicing a couple of carrots with 100ml fresh orange juice.

Day 2

Use it or lose it

It’s not just your body that suffers when you slump in front of your desk during the day and the TV at night – your mind also slows down. Granted, there are plenty of times when it’s beneficial for you to turn your brain off (last thing at night it’s a very bad idea to mull over your most recent work project, think about your financial situation or family issues you need to deal with, for example), but to keep your mental energy flowing you need to use your brain on a regular basis. A study of 800 American monks and nuns found that those who took part in cognitively-stimulating activities, such as crossword puzzles or card games, were far less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. You’re also likely to find your problemsolving skills at work increase when you give your mind a regular workout.

TODAY’S TASK: Oil that rusty brain and find yourself a puzzle of some kind to do. Sudoku is the gift that keeps on giving, and you’ll find one every day in most newspapers.

Or give word searches, or cryptic or quick crosswords a try.

Try Claire Gordon’s Are You Smarter Than You Think?, which contains more than 150 tests specifically designed to measure your intelligence.

TODAY’S TASTE: It’s true, fish really is brain food. Essential

fatty acids such as omega-3 found in oily fish can improve concentration as well as aid brain development in children, and some research shows it can help control disruptive behaviour, too. Experiment in the kitchen: fresh tuna, salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines, pilchards, herring, kipper, eel or whitebait are all tasty and versatile to cook. Or try Holland & Barrett’s Omega 3 Fish Oil Capsules.

Day 3

Good hydration

Water, water everywhere – but we’re still not drinking enough! Water performs many vital functions, including flushing out toxins and boosting your metabolism – both essential if you want to keep your energy levels high.

Water makes up around two-thirds of our body weight and it’s important for this to be maintained at that level because most of the chemical reactions that happen in our cells need water. If you’re not taking in enough, you’re likely to suffer from the symptoms of dehydration, including feeling sluggish, the onset of headaches and even constipation. The National Kidney Research Fund recommends drinking around two litres of water every day – that’s roughly equivalent to eight glasses. And drinking more water could even help you eat

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

less – it’s estimated that around three-quarters of what we believe are hunger pangs are actually our bodies crying out for fluid, not food.

TODAY’S TASK: Get those eight glasses down you! Think

about the amount of tea, coffee and fizzy drinks you consume every day, and if not water then try to replace them with healthier alternatives, such as herbal teas.

TODAY’S TASTE: There’s nothing like the zingy taste of

lemon to wake you up in the morning. Try adding a couple of slices to a mug of warm water and drinking that before you do anything else. It will help cleanse your system and prepare your digestive tract for the rest of the day. Like other citrus fruit, lemons contain pectin, which has been linked to preventing prostate cancer, reducing cholesterol and maintaining blood sugar levels. For a simple salad dressing, squeeze half a lemon and drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over your leaves. Or try Luscombe’s Sicilian Lemonade. With a real traditional taste made from Sicilian lemons, it’s lower in sugar than mass-produced versions and is organic and free from artificial preservatives, colourings and flavourings. (www.luscombe.co.uk)

Day 4

The power of herbs

Herbs have been used for centuries to boost energy and sharpen memory. Medical herbalist Kim Evans says: “Members of the ginseng family can increase your energy levels – like Panax ginseng for men. It stimulates your body and mind and is used for all sorts of fatigue, including jetlag if you’re a high flier. Astragalus is another herb which works in a similar way.

Ginseng is a Chinese herb and is referred to in records from as far back as the first century BC. You’ll be in good company if you take ginseng – Chinese emperors used it to strengthen their bodies and increase their fertility. More recently, studies have found that it improves memory among sufferers of dementia and can even reduce your blood sugar levels.

However, Kim stresses that this and any herb must be taken with due preparation and care.

“As ginseng is essentially a stimulant, it may not be suitable for those with high blood pressure,” she says. “If you’re thinking about taking it, then always consult a qualified medical herbalist. Also, tell your herbalist about any other drugs you are taking, as ginseng can interact with other medicines.”

You can find a medical herbalist by visiting The National Institute of Medical Herbalists website. (www.nimh.org.uk)

TODAY’S TASK: Find a herbal tonic that suits you. Hybrid Herbs has a range of tonic herbs (www.hybridherbs.co.uk) or Fushi’s Energy Herbal Tonic, which includes astragalus,

LOV E YOUR HEALTH

51

cola nut and ginseng root (www.fushi.co.uk). Kim also recommends a three-month course of ginseng for very low energy levels. It’s available from all good health shops, but make sure you check with your GP and herbalist first.

TODAY’S TASTE: Liquorice isn’t just a sweet treat – it’s a

powerful herb which strengthens your adrenal glands and can consequently help you feel calmer, as well as soothe stomach upsets, cleanse the liver and even ease coughs and asthma.

The first recorded use of the herb is by the ancient Egyptians, while the Japanese use it to treat hepatitis. Liquorice root sticks, tea and bars can be bought from health food shops and large supermarkets.

Day 5

Everything in moderation

Our bodies are only capable of so much and although regular exercise is great, overdoing it can mean that any health benefits are outweighed by the strain that five-times-a-week gym sessions are putting on your body. In fact, some experts now believe that too much exercise might actually be bad for you. Dr Michaela Axt-Gadermann, co-author of The Joy of Laziness, believes we are all born with the same amount of life energy. It’s like a bank account that you can draw on later in life. But sooner or later you’ll spend all the energy in your account. And, unfortunately, you can’t get an overdraft.

A little laziness can be good for you. For example, Prime Minister Winston Churchill had plenty of stress in his life.

But he hated sports, loved enormous meals and cigars – and died at the grand old age of 91. He put it down to taking regular naps.

52

LOV E YOUR HEALTH

“If you do a lot of sport, eat a lot or have permanent stress, your body will produce more dangerous free radicals,” says Dr Axt-Gadermann. “If you’re leading a stressful life, your body will produce too much cortisol, a stress hormone, which can lead to high blood pressure, ageing, damage your heart and arteries, and your immune system.”

TODAY’S TASK: Find a few moments today to take a rest – but keep it short! “Don’t take laziness to the extreme,” says Dr Axt-Gadermann. “We don’t believe you should lie in bed 24 hours a day. But often our lifestyles put us under such a lot of pressure that we can’t enjoy short rests or relaxing time.

So start by resting for five minutes a day and increase that time the way an athlete increases his training time.”

TODAY’S TASTE: Iron is essential for keeping energy levels up. If iron levels are low your red blood cells cannot carry oxygen to your cells efficiently, which can lead to fatigue or even anaemia. Red meat is the best source of iron, along with pulses such as lentils and beans, leafy green vegetables, dried fruits such as figs and apricots, eggs, wholemeal bread and sesame seeds. Ask your GP for a blood test if you think you may be iron deficient.

Day 6

Breakfast like a king

Your mum was right – breakfast really is the most important meal of the day. Research at the Harvard Medical School in America found that eating a regular breakfast helps to stabilise your blood sugar levels, which regulate your appetite and energy. And eating breakfast puts you on an even keel for

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

the rest of the day – which means you’re less likely to snack on sugary foods and so climb aboard the rollercoaster ride of sugar highs and lows, making it much more difficult for you to lose weight. Studies of office workers have also found that those who go without breakfast have much lower energy levels and can’t concentrate for as long as those who ate a proper meal before they left in the morning. So try to make sure you leave the house with a good and healthy breakfast inside you.

TODAY’S TASK: Finding time for breakfast is essential and not that difficult. Think about what you enjoy most in the morning. Avoid sugary, salty cereals and go for the natural options. How about natural yogurt with nuts, seeds, honey and raisins? Or granary toast with peanut butter?

TODAY’S TASTE: You can’t go wrong with a bowl of porridge for breakfast, full of iron and B vitamins to help keep energy levels up. Porridge is also high in fibre, helping to keep your digestive system in good working order. If you never have time for breakfast, can’t live without a caffeine kick and end up grabbing a coffee and muffin, think twice. Even ‘healthy’ muffins and cereal bars are laden with sugar. Instead, choose a cup of tea or coffee with just a splash of milk, a tub of fruit salad or a low-fat yogurt.

Day 7

Be an optimist

Few attitudes are more energy-sapping than those of the pessimist. We all know someone whose negative attitudes are exhausting to deal with – and one study has even shown

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

that being a glass-half-empty type can shorten your life.

Researchers at the Mayo Clinic, USA, found that optimists had much more energy than pessimists, felt more peaceful and calm, and were likely to enjoy better health and a better quality of life. So why have we fallen into this pessimistic rut? Some experts believe that we’re so used to our home comforts that we forget to be grateful for them.

“Most of us are happier than we know but we’ve got out of the habit of acknowledging it,” says Chris Webber, psychotherapist and life coach. “This could be to do with the levels of stress that we have to deal with on a daily basis – work pressures, family problems, trying to maintain a social life, eat the right foods, do the right exercise – we’re all under pressure to perform well in so many areas, it’s easy to feel as though we should be doing better, making us lose sight of what makes us truly happy.”

TODAY’S TASK: Every day, note three happy things that happen. This builds optimism – and optimistic people are known to have more physical and mental energy than pessimistic ones. Make a list of things you’ve always wanted to do and do one a week. Ongoing projects encourage us to follow our dreams, which makes us more energetic.

TODAY’S TASTE: Raisins are nature’s own little supplement.

Eating a handful if you feel the onset of the blues, or before working out, is a great energy boost and can also help prevent cell damage. An underactive thyroid gland can also make you feel tired, and iodine can help boost thyroid function. The Nutri Centre has a range of supplements designed to boost thyroid function. (www.nutricentre.com)

LOV E YOUR HEALTH

53

LOG ON TO THE KUDOS WEBSITE The Kudos website is all about keeping people connected and informed.

Our passion is to create a community website. THE place to go when you want to know what’s going on in your area or you want to communicate with your town. You can also view the online version of the magazine.

FASHIONISTA

If you are local and love fashion, then we want to hear from you! Our photographer Matt Harquail is often out and about in the area looking for trendy people to snap. So if you get approached by a tall, dark and handsome man clutching a camera, don’t be alarmed! If you don’t want to wait around to bump into him and are desperate to show the community just how cool you are, then send an email to website@badbettymedia.co.uk and we’ll let you know when he’s next on the look-out.

PETS

We all love our pets, well, most of the time!

They make us laugh, they can make us cry, but no matter what, most of us wouldn’t know what we’d do without them. But even the most lovable pet has a dark side, a naughty streak. If you think your pet deserves to be named and shamed, then get that camera out and send the evidence to: website@badbettymedia.co.uk

EVENTS

OK, we’ve got some event listings in the magazine but come on, there’s no way we can fit everything in there! So, the website is about sharing as much with you as possible. All the events we hear about are on there. If you think something is missing, then you probably haven’t told us. If you know about something great that’s coming up, then we want to hear about it. Just email the details and, if possible, a great image to website@badbettymedia.co.uk.

Simples, you might say…

FIND US

We hand-deliver 25,000 copies of Kudos to residential homes around Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks. We are sorry that we can’t deliver to everyone, but we also have 5,000 copies at various distribution points in the area for you to help yourself. If you want to know where they are, just check out the website.

FOOD & DRINK

We all love food and drink. They are the most important parts of any culture, at the heart of any great dinner party or night out.

Do you have any delectable recipes you want to share? Maybe you have invented an amazing cocktail, or perhaps you’re a local restaurant with a fantastic deal or delicious new dish that you want to share with the community? You know what to do: website@badbettymedia.co.uk

LOCAL GROUPS

If you are a local group, then tell us a bit about yourselves. That way, if someone is looking for a local group to join, they can see what’s going on. Simply email the details to website@badbettymedia.co.uk

So let’s start sharing and talking. Love your community! www.kudoskent.co.uk

54

website@badbettymedia.co.uk

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

KEEP IT NATUR AL

Luscious beauty buys made with natural ingredients that are kind to your skin, and to the environment

LASHINGS OF GINGER

This creamy cleanser leaves skin gorgeously soft and beautifully fragranced, thanks to its skin-conditioning guar, moisturising coconut, Italian bergamot and warming ginger. Liz Earle Bath & Body Bergamot & Ginger Creamy Shower Nectar, £12.50 for 250ml. www.johnlewis.com

CITRUS FRESH

This Grapefruit Face Cleanser from New York-based skincare company Malin + Goetz harnesses the clarifying powers of citrus to produce an effective everyday face wash, purifying without drying or irritating, and hydrating to suit the pH balance of all skin types, £25 for 236ml. uk.spacenk.com

COUNTRY STYLE

Eco-friendly and ethical, the Hedgerow Beauty skincare gift set delivers nutritious, therapeutic skincare using 100% organic ingredients. Suitable for all skin types, the set contains a daily cleansing balm, facial toner, facial oil and night-care cream, £57 from Nutmeg & Sage. www.nutmegandsage.co.uk KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

TREE OF YOUTH

The sacred Anogeissus tree is found in Ghana and its extract is used as a natural wound healer and antimicrobial. It’s a key ingredient in Origins Plantscription Anti-aging eye cream, designed to hydrate and improve the appearance of the major signs of eye ageing, £36.50 for 15ml. www.origins.co.uk

ALL IN ONE

The one-stop skincare shop continues to take our make-up routines by storm as more BB creams are brought to the market, combining foundation, moisturiser and treatment. Pick one with a good high SPF to keep your skin protected through the summer.

Bobbi Brown Crème BB SPF 35, £16.50. www.debenhams.co.uk

SOFT SOAP

Orange and jasmine essential oils give beehappy soap an uplifting, fresh citrus fragrance, balanced by the sweet soothing tones of jasmine. Free from parabens and sulphates, it’s kind to your skin and the environment, £4.50 from Annabel James. www.annabeljames.co.uk

LOV E BEAUT Y

55

TR ADITIONAL MEETS MODERN It might not be their dream cottage in the country, but Sarah and David Morgan have created traditional style in their modern home

56

LOV E YOUR HOME

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

LOV E YOUR HOME

57

THE OWNERS Sarah and David Morgan and their two children

Their home

A detached 1989 house with five bedrooms, three bathrooms, a sitting room, dining room, kitchen/family room, study and utility room

Location

Near Tunbridge Wells If you would like to show our readers your beautiful home, contact editorial@badbettymedia.co.uk

Sarah Morgan always imagined her forever home would be a country cottage in a village, similar to the thatched cottage she grew up in. But today she and husband David live in a modern house in a village near Tunbridge Wells – and they couldn’t be happier.

“We sold our house in Blackheath in south London and rented a property in Tunbridge Wells, not because we knew the area but because it suited our purposes location-wise,” says Sarah.

“It was handy for family and for commuting to London, and there are plenty of good schools.”

The couple spent time getting a feel for the area before looking at properties. Although the house they bought didn’t fit their brief – it certainly wasn’t a country cottage – it had a lot going for it in terms of a family home.

“We liked it for all sorts of boring reasons,” laughs Sarah. “It was in a good plot, we liked the village and it didn’t need a lot of work – although we ended up doing a lot! Above all, it was a very practical house.

“Once we had the architect’s drawings and saw what was possible, our plans for just a few alterations changed. We were advised to go for the maximum in terms of developing the house as we could always scale back if we couldn’t get planning permission.

“We knew we wanted to change things as we didn’t like the style. It had brown painted windows and a lot of brass, that sort of thing. It was mostly cosmetic, but it made sense as we were renting to get any structural work done before we moved in rather than wait.”

So, the couple changed all the windows and moved the staircase. They took up all the concrete floors and put in underfloor heating throughout. The garage was a separate building with a storage room at the back. That was

58

LOV E YOUR HOME

demolished and they built a garage onto the side of the house with a room over the top. The dining room was made bigger and the kitchen had a family room added onto it. They also added an en suite to one of the bedrooms.

They now have five bedrooms, three bathrooms and a downstairs loo, a sitting room, dining room, study, open-plan kitchen/family room and a utility room – “That’s Pickles’ room,” says Sarah. “He’s our springer spaniel and we had his very own shower put in the utility room. It’s really handy.”

The building company they chose to do the work for them was Mayfield-based Hemsted. “They were recommended to us through an interior designer, who in turn was recommended to my husband,” says Sarah. “She said she knew of a company where the project manager was, unusually, a woman. I was concerned that I was going to be the one working with the builders and I had absolutely no knowledge of building work, so the idea of working with a woman appealed to me.

“I really liked Vicky, and so did David, although his reasons were more practical. For me, it was more, can I trust this person and do I feel that I can work with them? I have to say that I couldn’t have done it without Vicky. She was so helpful over all the decisions – and there seemed like millions of decisions that had to be made. The big ones were the easiest.

It was when Vicky said things like, ‘I need to talk to you about sockets’, and ‘Have you thought about window furniture’, and ‘What about hinges?’ that I was stumped! I didn’t know windows had furniture!

“Vicky made it all very easy. I’d describe to her the sort of thing I wanted or the effect I wanted to achieve and she would go off and research it.

“Using a company like Hemsted is invaluable when you’re taking on a project like ours. They do everything. They liaised with the architects and did the planning application and all

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

The patio at the back of the house was extended to make the most of the outdoors

The windows throughout the house were replaced with wooden frames KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

The kitchen units are a mix of cream, green and wood LOV E YOUR HOME

59

Pickles’ shower in the utility room

Lighting is a focus of the house

The grand piano in the sitting room

The contemporary hallway

60

LOV E YOUR HOME

Bathrooms are ultra modern with limestone walls

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

The walk-in wardrobe in the master bedroom

the paperwork. Our first application was refused, because we were going to extend to the side, but the council thought it would make the house too long. But the plans that were passed gave us more than we had ever imagined.”

The first spade went in the ground on July 14th 2011 and the family moved in on December 16th. “It was absolutely on time,” says Sarah. “As for budget, it was what we expected.

Costs were adjusted along the way as we changed our ideas, but we were given regular cost updates so there were no nasty surprises. We were lucky, too, in that the house was sound and there were no major problems to deal with.

“The house is not the house that I thought would be my forever home. I grew up in a thatched cottage and I always thought that we’d move to a village and buy something similar. But to be honest, thatched cottages aren’t very practical. I’ve had a few conversations with friends who are now in thatched cottages or older buildings and they’ve had to pay a fortune for a custom radiator to fit an awkward space or they’ve been unable to make the changes they want because the house is listed. That’s what I meant about practicality when we looked at this house. We realised we could do a lot with it, and make it greener, too, which is harder to do with older properties.

“The style of it is not what I thought I would go for but I’ve tried to combine my love of that traditional country style with the modern design of the property. We’ve kept some of our old furniture, like the sofa in the family room that the children use as a trampoline, but we’ve brought new pieces, like the

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

dining table. It’s a reproduction that we bought on Vicky’s recommendation – we didn’t need a table that size in our last house! We’ve also got a grand piano in the sitting room.

That was something that David had his heart set on, and our daughter is now learning to play.”

Outside, they made the patio much bigger, and created different areas with a water feature and various arbours.

“I wanted the children to be able to use the garden as much as possible,” says Sarah, “so we added a path so they can ride their bikes and scooters around. They love it here.”

The only thing Sarah would change about the house is the lighting. “We’ve got a lot of spotlights and they don’t really provide the lighting I’m after. It’s easily solved, we just haven’t got around to it.

“My favourite room is the kitchen/family room. We spend all our time in there.” It’s easy to see why. The room is light and bright, with cream units, a limestone flagged floor and a huge central island.

A lot of the design ideas came from magazines. “The first thing I saw that I wanted in a magazine was the dog bath in the utility room. I showed it to Vicky and she got it exactly right. The same with the double trough sink in one of the bathrooms, and the limestone walls. I saw a photograph, showed it to Vicky and she went off and sourced it all for me.

“This house may not have started off as my dream home, but it is now!”

LOV E YOUR HOME

61

IT’S MAGIC!

Klaus Haapaniemi’s new hand-crafted Taika collection for Iittala merges folklore and architecture to create unusual designs on ceramic dinnerware. The range includes plates, bowls, coffee cups and mugs and is oven-, microwave- and freezer-safe.

Price: From £16 for the espresso cup and saucer. www.cloudberryliving.co.uk

PERFECT FOR POSH PARTIES

Impress dinner-party guests and set your table with these cool artichoke place-card holders.

Beautifully detailed, they hold your choice of place card at a 45-degree angle. They come in a set of four.

Price: £19.50. www.alisonathome.com

HOME, SWEET HOME Ideas to turn your house into a home

METAL WORK

This unusual handmade iron wire vase from Bohero is crafted using traditional methods. Minor irregularities and differing hues are an inherent part of the finished design. Price: £41.20 www.bohero.eu

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

PRETTY IN PINK

We love these rose-pink kitchen scales from House Envy. They’re far too pretty to hide away in the cupboard so keep them on show on the kitchen worktop. Price: £45 www.house-envy.co.uk

LOV E YOUR HOME

63

PERFECT PORSCHE Having swept the board in its category at the UK Car of the Year Awards, the third-generation Cayman S certainly deserves its crown, says motoring writer Anthony ffrench-Constant

64

LOV E C AR S

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

The Germans call the Cayman the poor man’s Porsche. I beg to differ. The laws of physics have always made my wallet somewhat wary of the 911, and the bubble of its mythical status as the ultimate sporting drive is surely burst by the revelation that two-thirds of sales are now accounted for by cars with automatic transmissions.

Indeed, all Turbo and GT3 911s are now fitted exclusively with Porsche’s seven-speed PDK twin-clutch transmission. And, whilst single-clutch seven-speed manual gearboxes are still available on heartland Carrera models, you’ll now find yourself taxed for speed and accuracy as you wrestle through no less than five increasingly-frustrating gates…

Anyway, such minor mitherings aside, suffice it to say that this third-generation Cayman narrows even further a gap which was never especially broad in the first place. And don’t take my word for that: When asked why the original 2005 Cayman S did not have a limited slip differential to further bolster its alreadyremarkable levels of traction, the car’s chief chassis engineer said simply, “Because if it did, it would be quicker across country than a 911…”

The new Cayman shares the same lightweight architecture underpinning both the latest Boxster and 911. It’s a whisker longer, wider and lower than its predecessor, and, most notably, stretched by over two inches in the wheelbase.

Whilst being a significant 30kg lighter, it’s also far stronger, and boasts twice the torsional rigidity of a Boxster.

Moreover, it dismisses previous pushmi-pullyu-based gripes concerning an inability to establish whether it was travelling in forward or reverse gears with exceptionally-handsome new couture, most notably in the more aggressive treatment of the door panel and rear air intakes, and far more precise tail-kick punctuation, which slashes artfully into the rear light clusters.

On board, that extra wheelbase length equates to a slightlylower, more laid-back yet still ergonomically-superb driving position. The instrument binnacle remains dominated by the large, central rev counter. As ever, the small attendant speedometer being so small that the digital readout embedded in the rev counter is essential.

A large centre-console screen forces the air-conditioning controls sufficiently far south that access to them is hampered by the gear lever, and twin banks of further buttons aft of the gear lever on the transmission tunnel offer optional-extra bragging rights for those afflicted by the need for active damping, a sports exhaust sound, and sports settings for engine and transmission.

Truth is, at £48,783, the standard Cayman S with six-speed manual transmission I drove is perfectly well appointed, though I might be inclined to find a further £477 for a headlamp upgrade, and a slightly-stiffer £2,141 for a multimedia system hike which includes satnav. £971 worth of Porsche Active Suspension Management is also tempting, but the standard car’s ride – though astonishingly adept at

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

LOV E C AR S

65

communicating road-surface information through the seat of the pants is remarkably supple and never threatens the loose filling.

For just £39,694 the standard Cayman equipped with a 271bhp 2.7-litre flat-six (a slightly-lower displacement than its predecessor, but more power) is not to be sniffed at. But the significant extra cost of the S affords you a glorious 3.4-litre unit generating 321bhp and a wholesome 273lb ft of torque.

Five seconds dead to 62mph, though quick, doesn’t do justice to the Cayman S’s in-gear performance. Both torque and power peak high up the rev band, so the car doesn’t really start to fly until the needle has passed the vertical.

Unlike the bewildering five-gate, seven-speed offering of the 911, the Cayman’s short, fast, six-speed manual gear change continues to beguile with its slickness and accuracy. And everything about the brakes, from linearity and feel to sheer stopping power is simply superb.

By contrast, whilst I don’t recall really noticing the much griped-about change from hydraulic to electro-mechanically-

assisted steering in the 911, I do feel a slight nose-dive in the once Princess and the Pea levels of sensitivity in the case of the Cayman. Then again, the hydraulic rack was little short of a benchmark for steering systems, and it must be admitted this replacement is still very good indeed.

Wonderfully fast, accurate turn-in, superb poise and balance mid-corner, and a fluidity of progress akin to the body of a quicksilver snake effortlessly following its head through a succession of contortions turns the sweeping bends of the average A road into a relentlessly-exhilarating experience with a soundtrack to match.

If ever a chassis could take even more power, it’s the Cayman’s.

Sadly, the threat of legion indignant 911 drivers watching that newly-razored rump disappearing up the road ahead is far too great, and the divide will, alas, remain artificially broad.

Nonetheless, it’s no surprise that this third-generation Cayman S recently swept the board in its category at the UK Car of the Year Awards. And I can only reiterate what I said, in judgement, then: “The correct answer to the pub bore’s ‘If you could only have one car…’ question.”

PORSCHE CAYMAN S Price: £48,783 Engine: 3436cc flat-six, 321bhp @ 7400rpm, 273lb ft @ 4500-5800rpm Transmission: Six-speed manual, rear-wheel drive

66

LOV E C AR S

Performance: 5.0sec 0-62mph, 175mph, 32.1mpg, 206g/km CO2 Weight: 1320kg On sale: Now

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

HOW TO BEAT EXAM STRESS Help your child cope with the stresses of exam time

Exam time is upon us as children take their GCSEs and A-levels. It’s normal for any child to feel nervous before a big test or exam, but some get so anxious that it affects their health, their attitude and their grades. Test anxiety has become more common as schools have put more emphasis on standardised testing, and even children who usually get good marks in tests can get stressed.

Exam stress is something that affects the whole family.

Parents get anxious about how much their children are working (or not working!), whether they are looking after themselves, and whether they will get the results they need.

Children are often stressed, anxious and irritable, and can have trouble with eating and sleeping. So accept it’s going to be a stressful time for the whole family and expect outbursts. The best way to support your child is to make home life as calm and pleasant as possible.

Some parents unwittingly cause stress to their children by talking frequently about exams and sending the message that they measure their child’s worth in terms of grades and test scores. Many parents think that so much of their child’s future hinges on tests and performance and if they don’t push their kids, they are being irresponsible. You can remedy this by praising your child for accomplishments other than test scores and grades, sending the message that other pursuits, such as the arts and sports, are important, too.

Observe how your child is coping and managing their exam

68

LOV E FAMILY

stress. If you notice they are behaving out of character or seem to be finding the whole process difficult, ask how you can help them. Sometimes it is enough for your child to talk things through with you, and you can help by listening and supporting them. Encourage them to talk to you if they are really worried they haven’t done enough work. Reassure them that if they do not get their expected grades, it’s not the end of the world, and they should just do their best.

Remember, too, that all children are different. You may raise your kids the same way, but one may do well in tests without much preparation, while the other may struggle just for an average score. Avoid the temptation to constantly heap praise on the good test-taker. Sometimes it’s the children who don’t do well in tests that have more success in after-school pursuits. Be realistic about your children’s interests and strengths.

There are ways that you can help your child’s study skills.

You can’t take the test for them, but you can show them how to prepare, and that has to happen well in advance of exam time. Teach your child to reduce distractions and avoid last-minute cramming sessions. If younger children are struggling to find a way to learn words or facts, help them make flashcards or come up with a game.

Parents often insist their children complete their homework straight after school but some are just too tired so it may

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

not be the best time. Let them relax, have a meal and then tackle homework.

Exam stress – tips for parents Advice from the NSPCC

The secret to doing well in exams lies in planning. You can help your child to create a clear revision plan and method of studying that will make them feel in control of their work.

Children have different ways of revising – some may prefer to be alone, others work best surrounded by noise and family, so let them do their own thing. Help them to work out a revision timetable for each subject, broken into smallish chunks. Get them to condense notes onto cards to act as revision prompts, and buy new stationery, highlighters and pens to make revision more interesting. Be prepared to spend time with your child, helping them revise with, say, question-and-answer sessions. It’s important that they know you’re interested in their work and that you’ll be proud if they do well.

The exam season can be a stressful time for parents and children.

Parents can play a key role in helping their children cope with exam stress.

Encourage your child to take a break and do something they enjoy, even if briefly. It’s important to have a change of scene and get away from the books and computer for a while.

• Allow your children to revise at night if that’s what works best for them. However do make sure that they get enough sleep to keep their energy levels up in the day.

Make sure they get a good night’s sleep before an exam, so discourage them from staying up late to cram. And make sure they eat a good breakfast on the morning of the exam.

• Be supportive and help alleviate their worries by talking to them.

Plan something nice for when it’s all over to reward them for trying their best, however they feel it went.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

Support children taking exams using these tips: • Don’t place unnecessary pressure on your children to gain certain grades. They may feel they have failed if they don’t achieve what they thought was expected of them.

• Encourage children to take regular breaks, eat snacks and exercise.

• Help them revise by leaving them the space and time to do so.

Be relaxed about chores or untidiness and understand they might be moody.

• Let them know that ChildLine has produced a series of revision tips to help beat exam stress. Be positive and help them put the whole thing into perspective. They can always take an exam again.

LOV E FAMILY

69

HEADS UP! YOUR EDUCATION QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY OUR PANEL OF EXPERTS Chaired by Angela Culley, Head of The Mead School The modern world is dominated by data, much of which is completely incomprehensible. Statistics can be slanted to suit a purpose and the reader can end up more confused than ever. Every company, and, in this instance, schools can be included within this definition, and appear to exceed their targets each year and on paper become ever more successful and thereby claim to be the best in their field.

Schools, quite rightly, have become increasingly transparent in their workings and daily lives; marketing is a priority and websites are sophisticated and detailed. Results of all genres are advertised, applauded, interpreted and communicated in all manner of ways from straplines to tables and charts.

League tables are prevalent and the media is quick to pounce on anything containing the word ‘education’. There is therefore the danger that on the face of it every school appears to be offering and achieving the same results for the children entrusted to their care.

So, the big question has to be how to differentiate between us; how do you as parents identify what is a good school, how do you know whether you have chosen the best and what in fact is really meant by the best?

All of this makes this month’s question particularly exciting and I hope you find the team’s responses both thoughtprovoking and pertinent.

Angela Culley, Headmistress of The Mead School, Tunbridge Wells, a co-ed prep school for children aged 3 to 11 Q “A lot of my friends keep talking about how they want to send their children to a top school. What is meant by a top school?”

Louise Tomlinson, Sevenoaks, Kent

If you would like to put a question to our team of education experts, email: editorial@badbettymedia.co.uk

70

LOV E EDUC ATION

A “As head of a prep school I have the honour and privilege to introduce and start pupils on their educational journeys.

I also have the huge responsibility of ensuring they move onto the best secondary schools for them as individuals.

It is impossible to put a statistic on the ‘x’ factor which is completely individual to a school. Like buying a house you often get the feeling of the one you like and often that is intangible. For me, top schools have created an environment where pupils put their best efforts into everything they do, not necessarily because they are traditionally academic but because they want to and have developed a can do/will do attitude. It is not necessarily about buildings, facilities or resources. Parents should look to the management of the school, ensure it meets the particular needs of the child, whatever they may be, and follow their hearts.”

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

Jane Maltby

Parent It’s a beguiling phrase, ‘top school’, evoking something different for everyone. For some, it means the facilities; for others, the academic reputation; yet others want the school that is tormentingly hard to get into.

Yet the top school is surely one where your children thrive, never mind the length of the playing field, or the waiting list. Of course, great teaching and results matter. But I’d say a school which recognises and fosters the talents and happiness of its pupils, wherever they may lie, would come top of my list.

Roger Clark MA(Ed), BA

Former Head of Battle Abbey School and now Governor of Bethany School and Educational Consultant Battle Abbey School is often top or near the top of regional league tables, which claim to measure academic performance. The school also excels in the area of creative arts, as well as having a widely-acknowledged family feel. In my 15 years as Head there, it was not always thus and I was fortunate enough to be there to observe how it grew. The transformations in the fortunes of the school can be attributed to many causes, but success breeds on success and the school gathered together a team of talented and dedicated teachers, and the pupils’ work ethic and belief in their own ability to succeed, fostered by their teachers, lead to dramatic improvements. I remember one parent telling me: “My daughter’s first choice of school was Hogwarts but you came second.”

Alex Griffiths

Chartered Educational Psychologist CPsychol AFBPsS BSc BSc DipEdPsych Cert Ed. Principal Psychologist and CEO (Educational Guidance Service), author and occasional broadcaster A great school values every pupil, aiming to develop them as total people.

Involving parents, especially at primary age, is essential to this. The academic curriculum is obviously important, but so is the development of the whole child to foster resilience, social skills and appropriate aspiration. Accepting and evolving individuality within a social context will give children the real tools for life. Push, by all means, but help children and parents accept not only strengths, but also those areas where great success may not be achieved though progress can be made with due care and attention.

Nick Dorey

MA Geography, Cambridge University PGCE, Oxford University In education for 30 years, more than half of that as a Head Teacher in three secondary schools, spanning both the maintained and independent sectors.

Most recently the Founding Principal of a Free School.

Ignore league tables and media references to ‘top’ or ‘leading’ schools. They will not tell you much about the quality of education provided by any individual school.

Society needs to be socially inclusive to be successful and happy – so schools should be inclusive, too. A top school values every child equally, regardless of their ability, needs, background or specific talents. Only you will know what is a top school because you will know upon entering it!

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

LOV E EDUC ATION

71

ARTISTS AT WORK

Three of our most talented artists, whose work is part of the Masters in their Fields exhibition at the Wing Gallery in May, talk about their careers

WILL TAYLOR Will is a fine artist and printmaker. He favours traditional line techniques in etching, pen, charcoal and silverpoint, and his work always contains a strong element of drawing.

Recurring themes in his work are animals, vernacular buildings and the natural landscape.

“My school subjects were sciences and my university degree was Mechanical Engineering. I worked briefly as an engineer and then moved into business consultancy for oil, gas and chemical companies where I spent the majority of my career, working around Europe. I was too busy to be bored, but underneath I sensed a need for new challenges. I changed direction in the year 2001, when I was 38.

“I like the idea that what I do now – what I may call ‘selfunemployed’ – is dramatically different from what I used to do. I can appreciate both. Having said that, my previous career has given me a security and work habits which stand

72

LOV E ART

me in good stead for an art career – something that I would not have if I came straight from an art foundation course.

“My work was successful in its own way from the outset. But I think that work has to evolve and improve, so that a work from then might not be as successful in a current exhibition.

I was fortunate at the beginning to be commissioned to illustrate houses for a large estate agency. I still do these line drawings in traditional dip pen, which has helped me to develop and practise my drawing.

“I wouldn’t say I am an animal artist, but I do find that they are a strong theme for me. I like my work to say something, more than just being a pretty picture, and animals can be a vehicle for character, movement and narrative.

“I will always be grateful for the local shows like the Cranbrook Art Show and the September Art Show in

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

Wadhurst, as they provide really high-quality art shows that are accessible and supportive for developing artists. I also have joint shows coming up at the Wing Gallery in Wadhurst and West End House Gallery in Smarden.

Occasionally it is important to have the work upright on a large easel and to draw from the shoulder. I find I can work and rework the charcoal, eventually drawing with fingers and an eraser.

“I grew up in Liverpool, without any obvious artistic role models, although there is a very accomplished oil painting of roses by my grandmother somewhere in the family.

“The third branch, where this all comes together, is printmaking. I work mostly with hard-ground etching and monochrome images that rely on line drawing. Its endless possibilities are part of the attraction.

“My work is very ‘drawing-based’. Whatever medium I am working with there is a strong element of line. An obvious link is to engineering drawing: basic learnings such as ‘lettering should be drawn, not written’ are still helpful. Perhaps most of all, turning the wheel of a beautiful intaglio press and the smells of print studio, have a strong connection to an engineering workshop.

“I see my work as growing like a tree. It has to be firmly rooted in good tradition and technique, and have a strong main trunk of work. The different projects, exploration of media and themes then branch out from this.

“I am currently working on three main branches of work. For some time I have done pen-and-ink drawings of houses and buildings across Kent and East Sussex, very much in the style of the old illustrators. The discipline of drawing with a dip pen and Gillott 303 nib is invaluable. It has been in some ways my own art training, and it helps and complements the use of a needle on an etching plate.

“A second branch is large charcoal work. Its beginnings were as an antidote to the small, detailed pen work done at a desk.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

“A current theme that I am developing in my etchings is inspired by the natural sciences. I wanted to find ideas and images that are around me or within my own experience, and rather than turning to the local landscape, I rooted out my old notes on science and engineering from school and university.

They prompted ideas about layers of understanding, the mystery of symbols and the concept of having to revisit and relearn things. For this series, I am interested in the patina of a hard-ground etching, with its scratches and foul biting, which remind me of old notebooks.

“I am finding endless possibilities with this series. An animal which I have depicted literally larger than life in charcoal, could be redrawn very small, in simple line on an etching plate. Art is about ideas and narrative, and using symbols and text is a very direct way of accessing this.

“It is perhaps important not to over-analyse art. I am fortunate to be able to make a living as an artist by creating art that works for me, but also, hopefully, appeals to others.” www.willtaylorart.co.uk

LOV E ART

73

CELIA ALLEN Celia Allen studied ceramics at Hammersmith College of Art then set up her first studio in Paris, where she lived and worked for 10 years. Returning to the UK, she continued potting and in 1985 became Head of Department of Ceramics at a prestigious girls’ school. For many years she combined teaching with her own work and now works full-time from her studio in East Sussex. Her main body of work is sculptural animal forms, which are largely influenced by the rural environment in which she lives. She aims to capture the essential spirit and character of the animal in movement and gesture. Each piece is individually modelled in either raku or stoneware.

“I discovered my love of working with clay at secondary school. We were very lucky in having a purpose-built pottery studio and an inspirational teacher who taught us the basics of throwing, modelling, casting and slab building. She also introduced us to the V&A Museum, and I thought I had discovered heaven. The V&A is still one of my favourite places. When I left school I went on to study ceramics at Hammersmith College of Art. On completion of my studies,

74

LOV E ART

I had the opportunity of going to live and work in Paris. This eventually led to my being able to establish my first studio, where I made domestic stoneware and one-off pieces.

“The break-up of my marriage and a desire to bring up my children in the countryside brought me back to England and to Sussex, where I helped to establish another workshop producing domestic stoneware.

“Teaching has always played a part in my creative life, either in my own studio, or for a few years in further education.

Then I saw an advertisement for ‘a potter who can teach’ at Mayfield St Leonards School. I applied, got the job and so my 23 years at the school began. I never intended to stay that long but it was such a lovely place to be. I was allowed to gradually develop the Ceramics department, and the girls were a delight to teach, many producing outstanding work.

We taught for four-and-a-half days a week and had long holidays. It was the perfect job and allowed me to continue to do my own work. The department thrived and grew, I was given a technician and an assistant teacher, and

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

eventually an additional studio and glazing room were added.

The department is said to be one of the best in the country, and it’s certainly better equipped than many studios at university level. It was a very happy place to teach and be a part of.

“On retirement I simply continued to work as before in my studio but with the luxury of more time. I like working alone – I think most creative people do, but I run a class once a week which I greatly enjoy and there are always visitors to the studio. My husband is a painter and has his own studio and a woodworking studio next to mine. We meet up for lunch, so it never seems solitary.

“My work is usually animal-based. I rarely throw these days but I still enjoy it when I do. I sometimes work on a series of forms at the same time. This allows for the clay to dry naturally, but I can force-dry to quicken up the process. I use a clay that is mixed with flax fibres and most pieces are begun as a flat sheet of clay which I wrap around a former which burns away in the firing. This means that I don’t have to hollow out. I then add the legs, head and so on. I am very interested in the movement of the animals that I am modelling and this technique allows me to move and position elements as needed.

“My work is certainly realistic but not naturalistic. The intention is to capture the essence of the creature I am making. I fire to both stoneware temperature and I also do raku. I like the crazed effect of the raku glazes, achieved by the post-firing reduction in a smoking bin, and the colours of the copper matt stain.

“I feel that Raku lends itself to sculptural pieces in a way

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

that shiny stoneware glazes do not, so my stoneware pieces are finished with oxides, stains and dry glazes which do not cover up the modelling marks. My influences are numerous and indirect. I have a particular liking for Cycladic forms and I love the colours and decoration on Islamic ceramics, as well as Chinese Tang animal forms. Mythology plays a part and of course the rural environment in which I live.

“Ceramics is processed-based, the first step being the making, then the slow drying, followed by the first firing which takes two days to fire and cool. That’s followed by decoration, glazing and the second firing, which again takes two days. A kiln also has to be filled to make it economically viable; my kiln is nine cubic feet and can hold as many as 20 pieces or more, depending on size. I work quite quickly, but I am always subject to the constraints of process.

“The hare has always been a recurring theme in my work, a kind of touchstone. Hares are such enigmatic creatures, full of myth and legend, and they have a very special association with so many cultures. They are not just rabbits with long ears! The Easter bunny was, in fact, a hare and an associate of the Anglo-Saxon goddess of spring and fertility, Eostre, after whom it is said Easter is named.

“In the beginning I was trained as a thrower, and I produced domestic stoneware and one-off pieces, but I was always interested in sculpture and steadily that interest grew until it became my prominent mode of expression.

“The future? I want to continue to do more work: creatives never retire!” www.celiaallen.co.uk

LOV E ART

75

DANI HUMBERSTONE Painter Dani Humberstone studied fashion in Brighton and developed a design business, winning the Prince’s Youth Business Trust award. She worked as a designer and illustrator for UK and Japanese clientele and was also a gallery curator. She is currently Chairman of the September Art Exhibition. She has recently finished her second teaching book on abstract painting for Search Press.

“I can’t really remember not painting and drawing, to be honest. My mother reckoned she spotted a slightly-unusual ability when I was about 18 months old, so she went out and bought me a little easel and some poster paints.

“Art doesn’t run in the family as such. However, my immediate family are all creative in some way; actors, chefs, singers. My parents were always very interested in art and theatre and used to take my brother and me to things all the time when we were children.

“I studied fashion when I left school: I must have been mad!

It was a blip when I was a teenager. Until then I had always

76

LOV E ART

wanted to be an artist. I found when I was designing clothes that the garments were basically paintings that you could wear, so I took the hint.

“I won a Prince’s Trust award for my clothing design company.

They had just launched the awards in the south of England and I was one of about a dozen who got it. It is an amazingly-helpful and supportive organisation. They sent me on business courses that have been invaluable throughout my career as an artist – and I learnt to curtsey as I met Prince Charles a couple of times!

“I have done quite a few things in my career, mainly art-based in some way. I have done some design work and illustrated a couple of books, one published, one not. As a jobbing artist, you can be asked to do some pretty random things, which is great because it not only helps pay the bills, but adds to your skills and experience. I was asked to run a gallery in Tunbridge Wells many years ago by a friend of a friend, which was an experience. It was very full-on, but taught me a lot and I met a lot of artists.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

“I now run The Art Shop in Wadhurst, where I also have my studio. There are a lot of artists in the area and wider area, as well as lots of schools, a sixth-form college, an adult education college, a fantastic art gallery (Wing) and the annual September Art Exhibition. It makes Wadhurst the ideal place for an art shop.

Most villages of its size probably wouldn’t be able to support it – although artists will travel to a good one and we have customers from up to a 20-mile radius.

“I have been the Chairman of The September Art Exhibition for three years now. I was on the committee for several years before that and when the show’s Founder and Chairman – the amazing Valerie Brinton – wanted to retire, she appointed me to caretake for the first year. Thereafter, every year when we start again, the committee votes on who does what. Basically, being Chairman of such a popular and prestigious exhibition, now in its eighteenth year, is an absolute delight. I have a brilliant and hardworking committee, all of which are artists, and now that we do everything online it’s so much easier.

“I have written two teaching books on abstract painting with Search Press. I loved it: I really enjoy passing on knowledge, and it’s something I do almost daily in the shop and part of the deal of being a practising artist as far as I’m concerned.

“My current work is very detailed still life in oils, predominantly fruits – in season, if possible – and always

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

painted from life to really get the feeling of life and three dimension, with a twist. I often paint tiny scenes inside the fruits, a landscape or a cityscape, elements of abstraction or line drawing to hint at a deeper element within the piece. I have recently painted a young soldier in a trench, inside a green apple to commemorate the First World War centenary this year. A relatively-new thing I do for commissions is called Portrait Muse – an ‘anti portrait’ – essentially a portrait without the person; instead things, places or people that mean something to the subject are used, making a very personal and unique painting.

“This may sound a bit cheesy but I find inspiration just about everywhere. Seeing things and looking properly are important tools for an artist, so everything is fair game. Inspiration can come one day and not another for no real reason; an experience can trigger something or a view, a person or a thought. My theory is the more you work, the more open you are to inspiration.

“My plans for the future? Like most artists, I’d just like to keep on working and climbing the ladder.”

www.danihumberstoneart.com www.theartshopwadhurst.co.uk www.septemberart.org

LOV E ART

77

DESIGNS ON YOU Cris Sega, owner of Cris Sega Designs in Tunbridge Wells, talks about the art of design What is your background?

I’ve been designing kitchens and furniture for as long as I can remember. I’ve got a passion for it and strongly believe that inspiration can be found all around us. I love designing funky islands – if space allows it, of course. For me, that’s where the kitchen design starts. Once I’m happy with the island the rest is simple. The last island I designed was in the shape of a shark’s fin; the one before that looked like a comma.

I gained a lot of experience during the years that I worked for Mark Wilkinson and other well-known furniture companies, and my designs have featured in a number of publications, including House and Garden and Period Living.

When was the company formed and who works there?

The company was formed in January 2012. My wife Letitia is dealing with the marketing and advertising as well as the admin. Tim, Mark, Andrew and Marek are working as kitchen/ furniture installers. Their reliability and quality of work has made them a permanent fixture on the team.

78

LOV E BUSINESS

Penny, Graham and Paul are all talented painters with great experience within the kitchen industry. The finish they achieve with a brush is superb and of course is the essential finishing touch to our handmade cabinetry.

You started the company during the recent financial crisis. What were the main challenges you faced in setting it up?

I think rather than it be a challenge, my situation ended up being a strength. Since the recession, people are more conscious of their pennies and, understandably, want to get as much for their money as they can. I made a decision not to have a showroom because it means that our overheads are low, which allows us to offer extraordinary value to our clients.

If we have a showroom, we will have to take that into account, and our costs will reflect that, but why should our customers pay extra? Personally, I see the recession as a re-invention.

What is it that excites you about design?

Everything! From the moment I meet a new client, listening to the

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

brief (dream, in fact, for some) up to the finishing touches. Every single step for me is important; I’m after that end satisfaction the client shows when the project is finished and signed off.

with the design expertise that I bring to the table, whilst remaining faithful to the set of ideas that work well, look elegant and express the client’s personality.

What do people want from their kitchens today?

Have you ever been defeated by a customer’s request?

They want a truly happy and effective environment – this is why as a designer I like to offer more than just arranging cabinets. They also want to add their personal style to the kitchen, to include objects they love into the design to incorporate their lifestyle and their individuality.

How has kitchen design changed over the years?

Kitchens have become living rooms in which people can cook; and they want to do it whilst looking into the room and talking with friends or keeping an eye on the children.

And it’s no longer just for cooking or eating. From socialising to surfing the net, the kitchen should be adaptable for everything, with a decor that’s mood-enhancing, with cleverly-chosen lighting, a perfect balance between furniture finish, colours, appliances, worktops and functionality.

What’s the most popular finish for cabinets and worktops?

Plain contemporary doors are now the trend and they go hand in hand with quartz (Silestone) worktops. Here comes the science part – Silestone is the only brand that contains a unique bacteriostatic formula developed by Cosentino that is based on the use of the latest-generation silver ions to prevent the propagation of bacteria.

What are the top elements of good kitchen design?

1. Storage 2. Preparation 3. Cooking.

How does the design process work?

As we don’t have a showroom, it is important to listen carefully to all of our clients’ needs and requirements.

For me, the design process involves mixing the client’s brief

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

I love a challenge. I never say ‘no’ to a challenge – I’d rather say ‘not yet’. One of my clients asked me if there was a way to clean the dog before entering the kitchen, so I designed a shower for the dog in the utility room. It works perfectly and to this day every time she sees me she’s mentioning that dog shower.

Where is kitchen design headed? What new innovations can we expect to see?

Contemporary kitchens are expected to be the fastest growing kitchen style. There’ll be more docking/charging stations as well as an office area in the kitchen, flat-screen televisions, hot-water taps (Quooker Fusion), induction hobs, steam ovens, French-door refrigerators and integrated coffee machines.

Dishwasher drawers are also a big ask at the moment and I expect to see the demand for quartz countertops increasing.

You don’t only make kitchens, though. Tell us about your other designs.

We make bedrooms, dressing rooms, utility rooms, studies, libraries, hallway furniture as well as freestanding pieces of furniture.

Do you intend to expand your company and, if so, in which direction?

Rather than a large showroom/warehouse, the idea is to have a design studio/boutique where I can hold a small selection of samples along with portfolios of my work, and then take clients out on real site visits to previous customers’ homes to see real-life examples of my work.

www.crissegadesigns.co.uk

LOV E BUSINESS

79

TOP 5 MYTHS ABOUT RUNNING YOUR OWN BUSINESS Thinking of starting your own business, or already running one and fed up with answering questions from people who clearly don’t understand what you are up to?

Isla Wilson smashes the top five myths about running your own business.

You’ll have a better work/life balance

For many people, running their own business will give them more flexibility about when and where they work, but the reality is that, especially to begin with, building your own business will require more hours than your job did, and will make it harder than ever to switch off from business mode. Accepting that work/life balance is a mid- to long-term goal can make it easier to put in the hours and manage the guilt.

You won’t have a boss

Being your own boss means you don’t have a boss... right?

There are two problems with this: Now that you are your own boss, you may find that you work harder, are tougher on yourself and undermine your own confidence more than any other employer ever could.

Assuming you have clients or customers, they are now your boss.

If your client wants to meet you at 6am, chances are you’ll be there.

If a customer places an order, and the only way you can deliver it is by pulling an all-nighter, then an all-nighter it is.

Stop worrying about who your boss is. Keep your customers/clients happy (within reason) and you’ll reap the rewards down the line when the repeat orders roll in.

You’ll need a BIG IDEA

We meet lots and lots of people who long to start a business but who are waiting for a 3am bolt of inspiration, a big, patentable idea that will change the course of civilisation. If that happens for you, brilliant, but it’s worth looking around and noting how many great businesses aren’t built that way.

Doing something slightly differently, slightly better or from a different perspective can be a great route to success. Instead of waiting for a huge idea, tune into the day-to-day frustrations and niggles you experience and see if you can find a better way to do something.

80

LOV E BUSINESS

You can build a business by being good at something

Being good at something is a great start, but it won’t be enough.

If you are great at baking cupcakes but have no talent for figures, marketing or sales, you are likely to struggle. In simple terms, your cupcakes would have to be earth-shatteringly better than your competitors’ for you to succeed without those other skills.

Conversely, if you have a talent for sales, marketing and business basics, you can probably build a serviceable business doing any number of things, but unless you quickly invest in building the quality of your offer, your growth will plateau. You’ll need to be great at something and have a good understanding of the business basics to build a sustainable business. Be realistic (harsh, even) about your weaknesses and work out how you can improve your prospects.

Build it and they will come

Sales and marketing is easy, right? A couple of tweets, the odd Facebook post and a website and the customers find you? The days of having a website and the customers finding you are pretty much gone. The reality is that, even if your website is your main route to market, you’ll need to do other things to drive people to the website.

Be realistic about how much of your time you’ll need to spend going out and grabbing your customers, especially in the early stages of your business.

Being pragmatic, willing to work really hard and understanding where your skills lie are the real secret to business success... now, get back to work!

Isla Wilson is founder and director of multi-award-winning company Ruby Star Associates, which specialises in alternative sales-andincome-generation advice and training for businesses, social enterprises and charities. Ruby Star Associates is the UK’s only Oomph Agency. www.rubystarassociates.co.uk

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

GUAR ANTEED SUCCESS Whether you are building a shed, conducting a marketing campaign, managing an event, or delivering a major corporate project, Mike Clayton has tips to help you stay on budget, on target, on time and, above all, in control

Goal

Know what your aim is in carrying out your project. What do you want and why do you want it?

Objectives

Objectives set success criteria around your goal; typically time, cost and quality. Use your objectives to guide priorities and decision-making when negotiating scope, selecting materials, suppliers and contractors, and when things go wrong.

Scope

What is the extent of your ambition; its breadth and depth? Scoping is the hardest part of project management, dominated by the arts of negotiation and compromise, and where you decide what your project will and won’t deliver.

Business case

Your goal alludes to why you are doing your project, but does not answer the question of whether you would be justified in doing so.

That’s the job of your business case; weighing costs against benefits, risks against drivers.

Plan

When a statement of scope becomes a formal work breakdown, you have the start of a plan. Now add sequence, timing, scheduling, resourcing and a budget, and you are well on your way.

Resources

Assets, material and, most crucially, people: what will you need, how much, and when? Procuring and allocating resources, and then getting them to the right place at the right time are all a vital part of project management.

Contingency

Be sure to budget for more resources and time than you think you will need, and identify which elements of scope and quality represent an over-specification against core requirements. No contingency = no chance.

Monitor and control cycle

The monitor and control cycle is the beating heart of your project management. You need to be constantly aware of what is happening, analysing what it means, and intervening accordingly if it does not match your plan.

Change control

Just when it is all going so well, someone says: “We’ve changed our minds.” Don’t worry, you can stay in control as long as your project has a sound change-control process. www.mikeclayton.co.uk

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

The eyes have it

If you’re particularly paranoid about your cyber-security, or just want to feel like a secret agent when you log onto your computer, then the eyeLock myris is for you. The small, circular device connects to your computer via USB and replaces the need to type in your password by scanning your eyes instead. Myris’ unique technology uses videos of both eyes to allow access, reducing the likelihood of a false match to one in two trillion. Price: £149. www.eyelock.com

LOV E BUSINESS

81

FAKE OR THE REAL MCCOY? Is that World Cup shirt all that it seems? Victor Caddy investigates

According to the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit, intellectual property crime costs the UK economy hundreds of millions of pounds every year. Increasingly, EU trademark and copyright owners are finding it difficult to prevent counterfeit goods being bought by consumers online in an increasingly-competitive climate.

With the 2014 World Cup about to kick off, football fans around the world will be parting with their cash to don their country’s football shirt. But at what cost?

USEFUL TIPS FOR SPOTTING A FAKE * The quality and printing on the shirt will be inferior on counterfeit goods.

The growing problem of counterfeit football shirts is big business, and when you compare the cost of an authentic shirt (£90 for the new England shirt) with a counterfeit (£10-£20), who doesn’t like a good deal? You might think you’re getting a bargain but it’s far from it.

* The label will not have a unique serial number on the inside of the shirt.

A recent change in European law could see counterfeit goods such as football shirts seized and destroyed by customs. Purchasing counterfeit football shirts outside Europe online, whether knowingly or unknowingly, can lead to not only not receiving the goods but losing the money, which can be extremely hard if not impossible to refund. The majority of counterfeit shirts are made in Asia by low-paid workers in sweatshops. Buying counterfeit goods encourages black-market trade and can lead to funding gangs involved in organised crime.

* Look out for the washing instructions – fakes will not have these.

It can be fairly obvious that you aren’t buying the real thing. Look for indicators such as ‘cheap’ or ‘discount’, unless it is from official sellers. Counterfeit football shirts come in a range of grades, from D to A. Grade A counterfeits look pretty much like the real thing, but to spot a counterfeit, look at the inside of the shirt for messy embroidery and a lack of inside printing.

If you knowingly purchase counterfeit goods yourself, you are actually committing a crime that could carry a much bigger penalty than the £90 it would cost to buy an authentic shirt. So the next time you see a bargain online, think twice, is it really worth it?

Victor Caddy is a Partner and Trade Mark Attorney Litigator at Wynne-Jones IP and a member of the Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys, the European Communities Trade Mark Association, the International Trademark Association, and the brand owners’ association, Marques.

He also serves on the ITMA Law & Practice Committee.

82

FALLING FOUL…

LOV E BUSINESS

* Every authentic shirt will have a manufacturer’s barcode.

Does yours?

* Be wary of goods at prices that are too good to be true. * The logo is very basic. * Sizes are often smaller. Counterfeits produced in Asia will generally be one size smaller, e.g. a counterfeit XL will actually be closer to an authentic L size shirt.

Did you know?

The table-top football game Subbuteo was the brainchild of a Tunbridge Wells ornithologist in 1946, and was named after the Latin term for a type of falcon.

And inside the box? Buttons, cardboard, wire and a stick of chalk with which to draw your pitch.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

STARRING ROLE Most people use their garage for a car – or as storage. See how Colin and Lisa turned their garage into a home cinema. Grab the popcorn and check it out

Kevin Whysall, Director of New Wave AV in Golden Green, Kent, tells us how they transformed an underutilised garage into a fully-automated home cinema.

“Colin and Lisa visited us after seeing their neighbour’s media room. They wanted a very discreet dual-screen installation that looked and sounded stunning whilst being simple to operate. Control4 integrated with all the audio-visual kit, lighting and the room’s motorised blinds and allowed the family to control the entire room with one remote control.

“The client had a very clear idea of how they wanted the room to look and feel. Seeing the whole room respond (screen, projector, blinds, lighting, LED) to the client simply selecting ‘Watch Sky’ was a great moment. The rear wall features a full-size mural with colour-matched in-wall speakers that really lifts the room design. For day-to-day TV and gaming, the client uses the flush wall-mounted 65” plasma. In cinema mode, the ceiling lift drops to reveal the HD projector.”

Says Colin and Lisa: “New Wave AV worked with us closely throughout the project to ensure our objectives were met.

We are over the moon with the results and have thoroughly enjoyed our frequent movie and sports nights.”

New Wave AV are award-winning custom-installation experts, who specialise in creating smart-home solutions and audiovisual systems. Established in 2003, they have amassed vast knowledge and design expertise in this specialised field. They are multi-platinum Control4 dealers and have been awarded UK dealer of the year on several occasions. Most recently, they won the 2013 UK Best Whole Home Installation Over £60k and the UK Best Single Room Install at the prestigious EMEA Dealer-Distributor Awards in Amsterdam which is hosted

by Control4.

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

Tel: 0845 5000 126 www.newwaveav.co.uk New Wave AV, The Old Mill Workshop Pierce Mill Lane, Golden Green, Kent TN11 0LA

LOV E PROPERT Y

85

ALL ABOUT YOUR HOME Local experts answer your questions on home-related issues

John Stephens – Rencraft

We’re about to move to a property that we’re going to renovate. I can’t decide whether to keep the kitchen and dining room or knock down the wall to create a large kitchen/dining/living space.

Any advice is welcome!

To accommodate these changes, there is a trend towards the removal of internal walls and the creation of single-storey extensions to the rear. Newly-created open spaces are home to islands for gathering, sofas for lounging, areas for homework and televisions for watching – all in the vicinity of the cooking zone.

Modern design, social change and a rise in the popularity of cooking shows have all played a part in elevating cooking from a tedious chore to an art that’s turned us average folk into serious chefs.

Today, many homes have accumulated elaborate collections of pots, pans, peelers, smashers and a multitude of other cooking appliances and ingredients made for whipping up everything from Thai curries to complex French desserts. But it’s not just what’s in our drawers and pantries that has changed as a result of these trends, but also the physical design of the kitchen itself. A century ago, kitchens were relegated to the back of the house, but since then they have become focal points in our homes.

Just as the kitchen has become the heart of any home, so a separate dining room – once an essential room for any family wishing to entertain family and friends – is becoming obsolete. Where the dining room provided a dedicated space away from the bustle of the kitchen and the odours of cooking, today the kitchen is a flexible space for cooking, dining and living. Parents multitask in a way they didn’t in years gone by, busy families frequently eat separately, cooking is a social activity and entertaining has become more informal than ever before. The kitchen is the hub of the modern family’s home and the place for the family to spend time together, albeit sometimes doing different things.

86

LOV E PROPERT Y

Here at Rencraft, we have been designing and building solid-wood furniture for over 33 years from our workshop in Sevenoaks. Our range of kitchens and furniture has evolved alongside the requirements of our customers. www.rencraft.co.uk

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

Vicky Risebrow – Hemsted

We are considering doing some work on our house.

What are the pitfalls that we should look out for?

A constant theme that we see is people asking us to price up a job that already has planning permission, but the planning they have in place can far exceed their budget, and then requires refinancing or going back to planning or simply not going ahead, which then means it’s been a costly exercise without fruition.

The best way to avoid this is to go to a builder who can offer you the full range of services, from planning right through to completion.

A reputable building firm will be able to talk through what it is you are thinking of having done and give you a good idea of the budget required to do it. Good building companies should have excellent working relationships with any number of architects and designers, so the right team can be involved for the individual project.

Planning can take a long time, so to enlist builders, only to find that you can’t really afford what you want and have planning for is an unnecessary waste of time and leads to huge disappointment.

Instead, you should go to a builder first, ideally one who offers the full spectrum of an architects service, who can cost out the building works including all the interior design as well. Our company, Hemsted, for instance, can look at the whole cost, by arranging an initial design asking lots of questions and ensuring no detail is overlooked, so that everything from the building materials and labour costs right through to the soft furnishings is accounted for.

Interior design is often not included, but really makes the project

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

and can be as simple as what colour paint to use, but is nevertheless a cost. How you finish your property is crucial – after all, most of us aren’t interested in the bricks and mortar; rather, how we will be using the finished space. You need to make sure that you cost that into your budget as well so that there are no surprises at the end.

By carrying out a full costing exercise, we can also advise clients on less expensive ways to achieve the same result. Also, by doing a full feasibility study, we can look at the hidden costs, any potential problems, evaluate the property and scope out what you are considering to do before you even start.

Renovating, refurbishing or extending a project can seem daunting, and without the right expert advice it can end up being full of problems and costing a lot more than you anticipated. A good builder should make sure that all the bases are covered to ensure the most effective way forward. Don’t try and skip parts of the process or cut corners: they will come back to haunt you in the end.

So, find a good builder and go to them right at the start, before you submit a planning application. I’ve lost count of the number of clients that have come to us trying to find someone to achieve the unachievable of completing work to a budget that the design just isn’t cut out for. There are always solutions to these problems – a good builder can help clients to overcome them and exceed expectations.

www.hemsted.co.uk

LOV E PROPERT Y

87

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Thanks to new charity Nourish and its dedicated band of volunteers, no one need be hungry in Tunbridge Wells

Volunteers at Nourish Food banks are fast becoming a very necessary part of modern society. The first was set up in Phoenix, Arizona, in 1967, and the first in Europe was opened in Paris in 1985. Last year, more than €1bn worth of food was distributed free under the food bank system to 5.5m people in Europe.

Here in Tunbridge Wells, Nourish is a volunteer-led community initiative set up in response to the increasing numbers of low-income working households who can’t make ends meet once they have paid their bills, and those individuals and families hit by welfare benefit cuts or unemployment. The aim is “No one need be hungry in Tunbridge Wells”.

“Nourish was set up in late 2012 from an idea by Olga Johnson and Keith Marden,” says Dawn Stanford, the charity’s Operations Manager. “A team of trustees was set up and with the help of Town & Country Foundation, it became a reality. We gained charity status in November 2013.

“Our volunteers, all DBS checked, range in age from 17 to 70. They sort and date-order food in our storage area at Big Yellow Storage in Tunbridge Wells and pack it into food parcels for families and individuals to last them for three days.”

Front-line care professionals including social workers, family liaison officers, housing support workers, police, voluntary agencies such as CAB and Age UK TW and community referrers identify people in need and refer them on to Nourish. Says Dawn: “We work with a wide variety of referral agents who are best placed to establish a criteria of need and ensure that it is genuine.”

90

Nourish is run by Dawn on a day-to-day basis, with the help of nine board members and around 70 volunteers. It’s reliant on food and funding donated by the public, local businesses, supermarkets, manufacturers and charitable trusts.

Although Nourish primarily helps people in crisis in Tunbridge Wells, it also supports those in surrounding areas. Says Dawn: “We have helped in Tonbridge, Five Oak Green, Paddock Wood and also out to Cranbrook as well.

“We deliver on average 30-35 bags a week to individuals and families. This has been up to as high as 50 around Christmas 2013 and is very variable. Demand certainly can outstrip supply but we have some very generous donors who save us when we are running low.”

So do people use Nourish as a short-term fix or is it longer term?

“We strive to discourage a culture of dependency,” says Dawn, “preferring to support families and individuals in crisis until they are able to move on. Our policy is to issue a maximum 12 bags to a family or individual in any 12-month period.

“It’s not just about food, though. The consequences of food poverty can be far-reaching, including increased crime, loss of tenancies, mental health problems and family breakdown. Nourish can help provide more positive outcomes by offering a period of respite and an opportunity for change.”

Nourish relies on the generosity and help of the community.

“We are always looking for willing volunteers,” says Dawn.

Nourish differs from other food banks in that it delivers food to people rather than have them come to collect it.

Visit www.nourishcommunityfoodbank.org.uk to find out how you can get involved.

“We operate a doorstep delivery using volunteer drivers rather than asking people to pick up their food from a central point, thus enabling us to ensure confidentiality,” says Dawn.

Do you know a local hero? Then we want to hear from you! Email details to: editorial@badbettymedia.co.uk

LOV E LOC AL HEROES

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

KUDOS M AY/JUNE 2014

LOV E LOC AL

91