MMM Magazine

mmm Maidstone, Medway Magazine

mmm Maidstone, Medway Magazine Issue 19, August 2013 Complimentary

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HURTWOOD PARK

See rock legend Kenney Jones’ polo club

ROCHESTER CASTLE Take a trip to Medway this summer

CATHERINE ZETA JONES The Welsh superstar, and her career beginnings in Kent

August 2013

n Fashion n Travel n Business n Entertainment n And much, much more

All available from McArthur Glen Designer Outlet, Ashford

6 mmm

Welcome

What a difference a month can make!

I am sure, just like everyone at mmm, your spirits were raised by a glorious July.

What's more it seemed to encourage great things too – all those sporting successes, sun-drenched festivals and the chance to finally wear all those summer clothes we've been storing up – all of which was crowned by the birth of Prince George.

Didn't Catherine look radiant when she emerged; and William look so proud? It was a wonderful moment. We send all our very best to the young family, now and in the future.

Maidstone, Medway Magazine Name: Address:

Postcode: Phone Number: Length of subscription 3 months @ £6 6 months @ £12 12 months @ £24

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It seemed like the entire month was bathed in beautiful warm sunshine – which, after all that cold and rain, was the most welcome of tonics.

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Cut out or photocopy this form and send a cheque payable to: MMM-Media Ltd White Cottage, 13 Ashford Road Maidstone, Kent ME14 5DA

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Inside this month's magazine we've got plenty to keep you entertained; including a special look at one of Hollywood's royalty – Catherine Zeta Jones. We look back at how she came to fame right here in Kent.

There is no denying Rochester is fit for a king too – with a castle steeped in history, and its vibrant, picturesque High Street. We look at both inside.

I had a special treat too when I met legendary rock drummer Kenney Jones, who was part of such bands as the Small Faces and The Who – you can find out just what we discussed in this issue.

For now though, I wish you all a happy holiday season – here's hoping the sun keeps shining and the great news keeps flowing...especially if you know anyone who will be getting their exam results this month!

Be a part of this unique magazine dedicated to Maidstone and Medway Here at mmm we have an opportunity for a talented Sales Executive.

You will be a can-do person with a passion for all that’s great about our area.

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Send a CV to rasa.dregva@mmm-media.com

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mmm MMM Media Ltd White Cottage 13 Ashford Road Maidstone ME14 5DA Tel: 01622 299035 studio@mmm-media.com sales@mmm-media.com mmm-media.com Publisher Rasa Dregva Editor Tom White

Travel Editor Tricia Lester

Production Michael Pilcher

Design M S Rawley Oliver Theobald

62 11 Catherine Zeta Jones

Our own Darling Bud of May very much Hollywood royalty

21 Fashion

Whether it’s a summer day out or you’re just down the beach, make sure you’re dressed to impress

28 Rochester History

Visit the historic Rochester Castle and High Street this summer!

23

Sales Michael Rawley Accounts Kerry Head

Further contribution Evelina Webster

Front cover photo by Peter West/ Rex Features

34 Cricket

David Gower is an inspiration to all youngsters interested in cricket

36 Food

A source of great culinary ideas, as well as where to shop the best organic food

40 Kenney Jones

One of the world’s top drummers has now turned to his other passion

45 Travel

This month’s travel tips, and join on a trip to Abu Dhabi

53 Home

Some tips to find your new home, and ways to decorate it with style. We’ve also got the latest BBQ’s and property news

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69 Motoring

The sun is out, so climb in a new convertible and go for a cruise

75 Business

All the latest news, events and celebrations in local business

78 An evening with Rolex

See our exclusive access, as Fraser Hart in Maidstone played host to a very special Rolex event

80 Somerset House Films

Take a trip to London this summer and be part of this years Summer Screening

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40 All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.

The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. Š MMM Media Ltd 2013

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Our own Darling Bud of May

Tom White takes a trip down television’s memory lane, to the very start of Catherine Zeta Jones’ career ...

I

N 1931 Herbert Earnest Bates, shortly after his marriage to Madge Cox, would make a life decision which would create a chain of events which would ripple all the way to modern day Hollywood.

Better known as HE Bates, the author and his wife decided to move from their home in Northamptonshire and settle in the pretty village of Little Chart, near Ashford.

And it was there, some 27 years later, as he sat in a car outside a village store, inspiration would strike.

As William Dell pulled up in his flatbed truck and his family poured out, the author watched transfixed.

The family went into the shop and all were treated to ice creams and sweets, while Mr Dell rolled off pound notes to settle up.

A year later, the first of the Darling Buds of May books was published – Mr Dell transformed into the inimitable Pop Larkin.

Yet HE Bates would have died some 20 years before the characters truly embeded themselves into the British lifestyle when ITV decided to turn the books into Sunday evening entertainment.

So it was that the TV production crew descended on Pluckley – a village best known for having secured the unusual title of the Britain's most haunted – to film. a

The big name star was David Jason – already a household name through his roles in the likes of Only Fools and Horses and Open all Hours – who became Pop Larkin.

The actors became regulars in and around Pluckley – with locals often used as extras in the show. Even today the area remains forever linked with its portrayal as the location for endless golden summers; attracting a

steady stream of tourists and interested onlookers.

But so much of the headlines were grabbed by the Welsh sensation Catherine Zeta Jones. Already carving a name for herself with roles in theatre and film, with a fine line in singing and dancing, she was cast as Mariette – Pop's eldest daughter and the love interest for Cedric 'Charley' Charlton, the straight laced tax collector who arrives

to audit Pop's finances, and ends up falling in love and becoming a, sometimes uncomfortable, member of the family.

With millions tuning in to watch the show, the stars – and Catherine in particular – were elevated to the pages of the tabloids.

Suddenly she became one of Britain's most famous faces; her star in the ascendancy.

Her relationship with Blue a

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Peter presenter John Leslie – the two were engaged at one point – made them media darlings, but after the success of Buds, an ambitious Catherine wanted more, and her stunning looks quickly saw her pick up a series of roles on both sides of the Atlantic.

It was a recommendation by director Steven Spielberg which would give her the break into the big time she craved – The Mask of Zorro; a role in which she was critically acclaimed and performed well at the box office.

By 1998 she was living permanently in the States and securing roles alongside Sean Connery in Entrapment – a year later she met legendary actor Michael Douglas – some 25 years her senior.

While she kept securing the movie roles, her relationship made her, once again, the darling of the media and her fame rose as her bank balance rocketed.

All these years later, and those who suspected their relationship may falter have been proved resoundingly wrong as they have become one of Hollywood's closest couples.

Today, Catherine, 43, and Michael, 68, have two children together and both faced health issues; him facing a fight against cancer, while she recently received treatment for bipolar disorder – a condition which can cause extreme mood swings and depression. a

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“She's fine,” explains Michael, “she's got it under control.

“It's stable. Sometimes if you forget your meds then suddenly you can find yourself on a bit of a ride.

"It's a slippery slope, this bipolar stuff.”

As for his own fight against throat cancer, he admits it remains a fight.

“You still have what we call after taste. The radiation burns the inside of your mouth. You can’t eat hot spices. Your tastes change. But you feel very grateful. I’ve lost a couple of other good friends who had throat

cancer, which makes me appreciate life more.”

Instead of Pluckley, Catherine is now a superstar.

Not, she admits, that she's ever quite got used to being quite so famous.

She explained: “I have never got used to and I don't think I ever will.

“Everything changed after the Darling Buds of May – it was like one hour of television transformed my life.

“Even when I first met Michael, I’d kind of been prepared for the

onslaught of attention. But I still find it really strange that I can go anywhere in the world and people recognise me. It’s bizarre to walk down the street in Tokyo or be in the Galapagos Islands and be recognised.”

The future remains remarkably bright for Catherine – now one of the most famous faces in the world – a career so remarkable by its rapid rise and, perhaps against the critics, its longevity.

Catherine Zeta Jones is Hollywood royalty. Long may she reign. mmm

Boosting children’s self esteem and confidence with performing arts

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I

T is a sad fact that performing arts is declining in England’s schools just as countries around the world are embracing it. A recent report by the Department for Education stated that the most commonly withdrawn subjects are drama and performing arts, which had been dropped in nearly a quarter of schools.

But although the National Curriculum is struggling to find a place for it, performing arts is widely spoken about as being one of the most positive influences on a child’s life. In her publication, The Importance of Theatre and Performance to the Development of the Child, Professor Maggie Kinloch argued that the theatre provides a host of benefits for children.

It is not only for those that want to go on and make a career on the stage, performing arts stimulates all children’s creativity. It helps them make sense of their emotions, develops their ability to understand, allows them to face their fears in a safe environment, challenges their preconceptions about the world in which they live, develops their

aesthetic sense, develops their language and communication skills, introduces new ideas to them and allows them to express opinions.

Although ideally, performing arts should be accessible to all children

in state schools, the reality is that this is not often the case.

This is where affordable, part-time theatre schools really come into their own.

Razzamataz Medway and Maidstone are part of a national chain of theatre schools that achieved national recognition after a successful appearance of BBC’s Dragons’ Den and Duncan Bannatyne became an investor.

Razzamataz encourages all children and young people to try their hand at performing

arts, because as well as it being thoroughly enjoyable, it has also been shown to have a significant impact on the process of improving literacy levels in children.

For boys, who especially struggle with literacy, an action research project by the Lancashire Literacy team found that: “Stimulus from drama and visual approaches has also resulted in a greater control of voice, style and pace.”

Educational achievement aside, what performing arts ultimately give children, are the skills in which to better express themselves, leading to increased confidence and self esteem.

“The most rewarding part of my job is watching the progress of some of our most shyest students,” says Hayley Limpkin, Principal of Razzamataz Medway and Maidstone. “Some children join us being painfully shy and are unable to let their parents leave the classroom, but within just a few short weeks, they make fantastic progress because they are having so much fun.”

Parents are quick to support this with many having seen their children blossom in confidence since attending Razzamataz.

To book a FREE trial session for the main school or to find out more information about Razz Tots visit www.razzamataz.co.uk.

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Rochester Castle’s history can be charted back to the 12th century

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M

ANY of the nation's great buildings and monuments exist merely as a lasting historic record of times gone by.

Yet Rochester Castle continues to play a significant role in the daily life and times of Medway.

Quite aside from being a tourism venue which generates a steady stream of visitors and resulting revenue, it remains a vibrant part of the community as a focal point for everything from fun runs to music concerts.

All of which is made all the more remarkable given its deep history which can be charted back to the 12th century – and previous similar settlements back to 1066.

Today, the castle stands as proud as ever – overlooking the banks of the River Medway.

For thousands of commuters travelling to and from the capital, it is an instantly recognisable landmark, while there can be few more beautiful sights in the

county than walking past the boats on the Medway as the sun sets and admiring the castle's dramatic keep looming into the red sky.

It is perhaps part of Rochester's holy trinity – the castle, neighbouring cathedral and its High Street.

Combined, it packs perhaps one of the county's most historically powerful punches and is one of the nation's most revered Scheduled Monuments, in the guardianship of English Heritage.

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As a spokesman for the organisation explains: “Strategically placed astride the London Road, guarding an important crossing of the River Medway, this imposing fortress has a complex history of destruction and rebuilding.

“Today it stands as a proud reminder of the history of Rochester along with the cathedral and cobbled streets.”

Once again underlining Medway's once hugely significant strategic position over the centuries, Rochester first became a significant settlement under the Romans.

It assumed greater status when a road linking London to the east of Kent crossed the Medway where Rochester stands.

A walled city from the third century, the end of Roman rule in the UK brought it, along with so many other many towns and cities, tumbling down, being revived 400 years

later when it became the diocese of a bishop.

After the Norman Conquest of 1066 a royal castle was built on the site – a site which would a

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a be replaced with a stone castle on direction of King William II, son of William the Conqueror.

It would in 1127 when the distinctive Norman keep – created from Kentish ragstone – was built by the then Archbishop of Canterbury under the encouragement of Henry I. Explains English Heritage: “The castle, built in stone by Gundulf, Bishop of Rochester, in the 1080s

was one of the earliest such buildings in England.

“In 1127 Henry I entrusted it to the Archbishop of Canterbury, who began the building of the great keep.

“Conflict between Crown and Church resulted in the great siege of the castle by King John in 1215.

And after another siege in 1264 it fell into decline.

“It was important because of the

river crossing, and Rochester Castle contains a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Its 38-metre high keep is the tallest such building surviving in Europe.

“In total, the castle endured three sieges, including the famous assault

by King John in 1215, when one corner of the keep was destroyed.”

The last time it saw military action was in the 14th century when, in 1381, it was captured and

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ransacked during the Peasants' Revolt.

Adds the spokesman: “The castle became redundant as a royal stronghold in the late Middle Ages and fell into ruin in the 17th century. Yet it remains a potent symbol of medieval secular power, confronting that of the Church represented by the nearby cathedral.”

Its evolution from military stronghold to tourist attraction was completed in the late 19th century, when in the 1870s the grounds were opened to the public as a park – a park which remains hugely popular to this day.

Today, the castle continues to play a hugely significant role in the area. a

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a Indeed, each summer it becomes the backdrop of the hugely popular series of musical events – the Castle Concerts.

Instead of marauding peasants, the castle's grounds are instead invaded by music lovers, soaking up performances from everyone from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra to the likes of Status Quo, Steps, Billy Ocean and The Wanted. mmm

An inspiration to the younger generation

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T

RY as you might, you will struggle not to find yourself caught up in the excitement of cricket's most eagerly anticipated series this summer.

The clash of the touring Australians and hosts England will occupy the hearts and minds of sport fans throughout the summer, from the first ball being bowled last month at Nottinghamshire's Trent Bridge to the last, later this month at

a generation of youngsters to pick up the cricket bat, and endeared him to a British public during the 1980s who couldn't get enough of his laid-back approach and exciting performances.

His performances for England – ultimately as captain – would define his career.

Often a thorn in the side of the Aussies – and most of the other cricketing nations – he would go on to play more than 100 Tests for England, establishing himself as a fans' – and housewives' – favourite.

In 1985 he would skipper England to victory over the Australians to lift the urn, having previously played an integral part in the famous 1981 series – an Ashes memorable for Ian Botham's remarkable heroics in the third Test at Headingley, where England snatched victory from the jaws of defeat in one of the national team's most famous wins.

And once his playing days were behind him he wasted London's iconic Oval. little time in establishing himself in For many it means tuning in to front of the cameras once more as watch Sky's live Ashes coverage – a pundit. After a role as team one of the many sporting jewels the captain in the BBC's popular panel pay-TV broadcaster has snared in show They Think It's All Over and a recent years. stint in Australia commentating for Yet what may escape the notice of one of its major networks, he was many is that its main anchorman signed up to front Sky's cricket has his roots deep in Kent. coverage, where today he lines David Gower, 56, is best up alongside the likes former remembered for his glorious, England captains Mike Atherton relaxed batting style which inspired and Ian Botham.

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But in the domestic game it was his long association with county side Leicestershire for which he will always be remembered.

It could, however, have been so different.

Because Gower was not only born in Kent, but he, after a brief stint overseas, was schooled in the county, even developing his love affair with the sport which he would forever be associated with.

His parents had been living in Tanganyika, in east Africa, just prior to his birth. His father, Richard Gower, was working for the Colonial Service – the branch of the British government which oversaw the running of its various territories.

But with strong links to Kent – his father had grown up here – his parents returned to ensure David's safe delivery into the world.

So on April 1, 1957, David was born at Pembury.

The family did not wait long before flying back to Africa – remaining there for a further six years until it was granted independence.

They returned to Kent – and

settled in the picturesque village of Goudhurst, near Tunbridge Wells.

Explains David: “My grandmother owned a house with some land and a cottage there so we lived in the cottage for about 18 months while my father worked out what he intended to do.

“It was a wonderful part of the world - surrounded by apple orchards and hop fields.

“I went to the village school in Goudhurst.”

While his family opted to move to Loughborough, David remained to finish off his schooling – first at plush private school Marlborough House in Hawkhurst and then, after securing a scholarship, Kings in Canterbury.

Gower remembers: “Schools like that are very good for people like me to be honest, because they have all the sports you want and obviously the academic side is very strong too.”

But after playing for Leicestershire's second team during the summer holiday, and completing his A-levels he opted to try his hand

as a professional, signing a £25 a week contract.

The rest, as they say, is history.

Kent perhaps let slip through their fingers one of the country's best loved players.

“By the time that I got to the age where I was good enough to be considered I was living in Loughborough, so it seemed more practical to play for Leicestershire,” he reflects.

It was also a time when Kent's team were all conquering, with a strength in depth that saw them lift titles and silverware.

Married to Thorunn and with two teenager daughters – Alex, 19, and Sammi, 17, he is content in his private life, reflecting back to a glorious summer when his life changed forever.

“The summer of 1985 was very special. We won the Ashes, I was captain, and it was also the year I met my wife.”

Every cricket fan will be hoping the Arctic Fox – as he was nicknamed – will help inspire England to Ashes glory once more this summer. mmm

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FOOD

Smoked Duck Salad

Recipe by Beeches Restaurant Mereworth

Ingredients: 2 smoked duck breasts 250g baby spinach 500g fresh raspberries 20g sugar 50ml Balsamic vinegar 100ml Olive oil Salt

Method: Put half the raspberries in a pan with the sugar.

Cook down to a puree.

Blend with a hand blender.

Pass through a sift.

In a bowl add the raspberry puree and the balsamic vinegar, whisk. Whiles still whisking slowly add the olive oil, to form an emulsion dressing.

In a bowl put the washed baby spinach and add the raspberry and balsamic dressing.

Slice the duck. Add the sliced duck and raspberry’s and a pinch of salt.

Serve with fresh bread

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Spinach and ricota Italian tortelloni with goats’ cheese sauce Recipe by Buenos Aires Maidstone

Ingredients For the pasta 700g flour, plus extra for dusting 3 medium free-range eggs For the filling 200g/7oz spinach, cooked in salted water and chopped 200g/7oz ricotta 30g/1oz grated parmesan Large pinch freshly grated nutmeg Salt and freshly ground black pepper For the sauce 3 slices of goats’ cheese ½ cup of milk and ½ of cream 1 garlic clove, smashed 2 teaspoon of minced

rosemary, basil, or thyme ½ teaspoon salt pepper For the pasta Pour the flour into a mound onto a flat surface and make a well in the centre.

Crack the eggs into the well and gradually mix with your hands.

When the dough has become a thick paste use your hands to incorporate more of the flour.

You can sieve any remaining flour and use the sifted flour while you knead the dough to stop it sticking to the surface and to your hands.

Knead until well blended .

and the dough is soft and flexible.

Wrap in cling film and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, for the filling, in a clean bowl, mix the spinach, ricotta, parmesan and nutmeg well, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Divide the dough in 3 so it is more manageable. Keep well wrapped the dough you are not currently rolling. When you are done rolling one portion start to fill it or it will dry and be harder to seal.You want a tongue of pasta about 10cm wide, using a teaspoon place small mounds of spinach and ricotta filling, with about 2cm of empty space between them.

Once you’ve covered the entire length of the tongue of pasta with filling, take a small wine glass or round cutter measuring about 7cm/3in across and cut out circles of pasta around each mound of filling.

Grab it along the side and fold it in half.

When closing the torteloni make sure to let all the air out, press the air out from around the filling by

pushing down the pasta around them sealing them in.

Now take a small wine glass or round cutter measuring about 7cm/3in across and cut out circles of pasta around each mound of filling.

To cook Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil and gently lower in the tortellini. Cook for about four minutes or until the pasta is soft but not floppy.

For the sauce Mash the cheese into the liquid and stir in the garlic.

Heat over medium heat, stirring regularly, until cheese melts and the liquid simmers.

Cook the sauce for 5-15 minutes – the longer you cook, the thicker it will be.

Season with minced herbs and pepper.

Serve with wild rocket and one slice of goats’ cheese on the top, season with cracked black pepper.

You can pair this dish with a nice glass of red wine like Merlot.

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FOOD

Strawberry and Elderflower Summer Dessert

Recipe by Eastwell Manor, Ashford

Elderflower Jelly 500ml Elderflower Cordial 4 gelatine leaves Dissolve the gelatine in the elderflower cordial and leave to set in the fridge the night before the dessert is needed.

food processor and blitz into an icy slush.

Return to freezer box and re-freeze.

If using an ice cream maker follow maker’s instructions.

Making Up This recipe gives plenty for eight people. Take a chilled dessert plate and put a layer of elderflower jelly and strawberry cream on first. Top with a meringue nest and then fill this with another layer of elderflower jelly and strawberry cream.

Top with a scoop of strawberry sorbet and a sprig of fresh basil leaves.

Serve immediately.

The perfect summer dessert.

Strawberry Cream 250g Kentish strawberries 250ml Double Cream Blitz the strawberries in a food processor and then stir into the cream lightly leaving a rippled effect of pink and white.

Meringue Nests 2 large organic egg whites 60g caster sugar 60g icing sugar These are better if made the night before. Preheat the oven to fan 100c/conventional 110c/gas1/4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Tip the egg whites into a glass mixing bowl and beat with a hand whisk until the mixture stands in stiff peaks.

Increase the mixer speed and start to add the caster sugar slowly. The mixture should become thick and glossy. Sift one third of the

icing sugar over the mixture then gently fold in – repeat.

Scoop dessertfuls of the mixture onto the baking tray to form a circle approximately 20cms in diameter and make a slight indentation in the centre to form a nest shape.

Bake in the oven for 1¼ hrs or until they sound hollow when tapped underneath.

Leave to cool on a wire rack and store in an airtight tin.

Strawberry Sorbet 250g caster sugar 500g Kentish strawberries 250ml water Put sugar in a saucepan with water. Simmer for 2 minutes and cool.

Blitz the strawberries in a food processor and then push through a sieve.

Stir in the sugar syrup.

Tip the mixture into a freezer box and freeze until almost set. Break up with a fork, return to

STRAWBERRY SUMMER PUNCH 250ml Lemonade 250ml Cranberry Juice 250ml Rosé Wine 50ml Strawberry Liqueur Mix the above ingredients together in a large glass jug and add ice cubes, some cut up Kentish strawberries and fresh mint. Pour into chilled glasses and decorate with mint leaves.

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Fresh and Local Produce, from The Fresh and Local Produce Farmers Market THERE is perhaps no better way to shop for the freshest food and the widest range of produce than at a farmers' market.

The food is grown or reared locally, the food miles are minimal and the bargains are plentiful.

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Or there's also Rochester Farmers' Market. All markets take place in the Corporation Street Car Park on the third Sunday of each month from 9am to 1pm.

And there are plenty of other markets for you to discover too, such as Yalding or Headcorn. For more information of more markets visit www.kfma.org.uk- the Kent Farmers’ Market Association.

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Having played with Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood and The Who, to name but a few, Kenney Jones has now turned to his other passion - Polo.

Rasa Dregva, mmm publisher, was lucky enough to meet the star at his home in Surrey and discuss his twin loves.

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K

ENNEY Jones has spent a lifetime in the music business in a career which has spanned more than four decades, but despite being best known as one of the world’s top rock drummers with The Small Faces, The Faces and The Who, he also has another passion – horses.

The Stepney born musician, who first had a hit record when he was just 16-years-old, has been riding horses almost as long as he had been playing the drums, and as

owner of the magnificent Hurtwood Park Polo and Country Club in Ewhurst, he has been able to realise a dream he first had in the early 1990’s.

When Kenney and his wife Jayne agreed to organise a charity event 17 years ago neither of them could have imagined it would prove to be the seed which has now blossomed into the Hurtwood Club.

The ‘event’ was a celebrity polo match to help raise money for a local children’s playground and the

match was played on land at the back of their house in Ewhurst.

The afternoon proved to be a resounding success, with around 750 local people proving that there was clearly an appetite for the sport.

“It was so popular that we did it again for charity the next year and double the amount of people turned up,” recalls Kenney. “The following year we moved it to some land I’d bought next to my house which was just a naturally perfect playing surface for the game, and it was a

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exactly where the club is situated now.”

“I’ve always had two hobbies,” he insists.

“One was drumming and the other was horse riding. One I earned money from, the other has kept me sane!”

Kenney was introduced to the game of polo back in the 1970’s, but touring commitments prevented him from seriously devoting time to the sport until 1987, when he was given his first lesson and was completely bitten by the polo bug.

He became a member at various polo clubs, and soon the idea of actually owning and running his own began to take shape.

It was an idea which nestled somewhere in the back of his mind for some time, and now with the help of Jayne and an incredibly hard working and professional group of people, the idea has become a reality.

Following those initial charity events a number of local riders showed a keen interest in becoming involved in the game.

Several began playing on the practice ground that Kenney used, and without any formal recruitment, formed the nucleus of Hurtwood Park Polo Club members. In

addition, other more experienced polo players expressed their willingness to join the club, adding Hurtwood to their other memberships elsewhere in the country.

Realising the strength of enthusiasm for any proposed project Kenney purchased further land to complete the framework for a club and applied for formal planning permission.

When the club was opened it was done with the clear intention of trying to make polo more accessible to those who wanted to get involved in a sport which has traditionally been out of reach to many individuals.

Part of the Hurtwood Park philosophy to polo is that it should be seen as a family sport. The club’s enlightened attitude to the game means that they pay just as much attention to a youngster just starting out in the game – Kenney’s 24-year-old son first picked up a polo stick at the age of three – as they do to experienced professionals.

Set in magnificent countryside at the foot of the Surrey Hills, with its six playing fields.

Hurtwood occupies a stunning location, and its natural beauty is enhanced by a superb club house created from a restored a

oak beamed barn which dates back to the 16th century.

The club is now one of the premier venues for polo in the UK and has played host to The Prince of Wales, as well as Princes William and Harry. Its high goal tournaments attract some of the best players in the world, and that crowd of 750 people back in 1991 is now a far cry from the 20,000 spectators that have enjoyed the Kuoni World Class Cup in previous years.

Polo is naturally at the core of Hurtwood Park, but the club prides itself on being about so much more than just the playing of the sport. As well as having a thriving playing and social membership, the club have always made sure that they are very much part of the local community and their bar and restaurant facilities are open to the general public, making Hurtwood a social focal point, with events taking place throughout the year.

Jayne, who is director of operations at Hurtwood, agrees that it has taken a huge effort to get the club where it is today.

“I’ve got really good people working here,” she insists. “The club just couldn’t function if that weren’t the case, and I’ve always been

a believer in the fact that no one person is paramount to the success of an event or to the club. It has to be all about team work.”

While the busiest time is obviously during the polo season itself, which runs from late April until September, Hurtwood is open all year round. The club house, with its superb restaurant and bar is a popular venue for diners, and has proved to be the perfect setting for weddings.

In addition to the ultimate Polo experience, the natural beauty encompassing the site around Hurtwood Park lends itself to an idyllic setting for entertaining such as luxurious weddings, private parties, concerts, conference and meeting facilities and corporate activity days from team building to fun days. We also run a licensed bar and restaurant from the clubhouse.

With Kenney’s background it is not surprising that the club also likes to feature live music on a regular basis, while rock and classical open air concerts have been a resounding success in recent years.

But of course polo lies at the heart of the club and in attracting some of the best players on the world stage the club’s playing reputation has been enhanced. a

The sport is the perfect vehicle for corporate hospitality and Hurtwood prides itself on being able to offer sponsors of tournaments a superb day out.

“We want it to be a day to remember,” adds Jayne. “Despite what some people or companies may think it doesn’t cost the earth to sponsor polo. We have always tried to offer various packages to fit the needs and finances of our sponsors and it seems to have been a pretty successful formula so far.”

Standing on the club site you can see the Hurtwood Hills where the

unique and delicate pink Hurtwood Bilberry flower grows, the berried garlands of which form the wreath around the club’s shield. Kenney chose the emblem in the hope that Hurtwood Park could give something equally unique back to the area, the creation of a club which would be accessible and appreciated by everyone.

“I was already in love with the sport when we opened the club,” adds Kenney. “But it was always our intention to open things up. I wanted to have something that was not only for polo players but for the local

community, non-playing members, families and anyone who wanted to come and watch.

“It’s not just a case of having members who come here to play polo. They believe in the spirit of Hurtwood Park and why it was set up. Simplicity is always the best way of going forward and whatever happens we want to hang on to spirit we have here.

“Hurtwood will always have a heart.” mmm Photography by Steven Daniels, Mark Beaumont and Perfect Picture / Rex Features

mmm travel

n Why not consider an escorted touring holiday with more than 50 itineraries n Familiarize yourself with the wonders of Abu Dhabi

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To promote your business call 01622 299035 or e-mail sales@mmm-media.com

Have you ever Kirsty Keeling-Jones Branch Manager Baldwins Travel Agency Maidstone 01622 762141 The school holidays have finally arrived, so here are a few tips when travelling with children…

• Always pre-order a child’s meal at time of booking • You may wish to bring snacks or other food just in case they are a little fussy!

• A favorite blanket or stuffed animal may help comfort those who are fearful or nervous.

• Consider bringing activity books, portable DVD players or video games (with headphones) to help keep children occupied for the length of the journey.

• If travelling by plane; during takeoff and landing, make sure to have kids drink or have a boiled sweet. Explain to them what is happening, and if they are too small to see out of the window, play a game where they have to tell you when you are finally in the air or when you have finally touched ground.

• Take the hassle out of parking at the airport by booking a Meet & Greet service. Baldwins Travel can help you with this.

• Hiring a car abroad? If so you may wish to consider buying a lightweight booster seat before you travel to pack into your suitcase. To hire car seats abroad can be very expensive as they charge you per day.

C

OLLETTE Worldwide Holidays, a family owned and run business, has been operating for more than 95 years and in that time the company has become synonymous with quality and expertise. Collette’s programme of quality escorted tours features over 50 itineraries ranging from the USA through South America, Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe and even Antarctica!

Accommodation is in a choice of excellent quality hotels, and the company offers free transfers within 100 miles of the UK departure airport and clients are accompanied throughout their tour by one of Collette’s highly experienced tour managers. The tours provide excellent value for money, with many meals included and a wide choice of unique excursions and ‘must see’ sights featured across all destinations.

thought about an Escorted Touring holiday?

In addition to a superb range of quality escorted tours around the world, Collette Worldwide Holidays has recently teamed up with the renowned Royal Horticultural Society to offer a programme of Garden Holidays featuring a selection of carefully designed horticulture-themed holidays in destinations including the USA, New Zealand, South Africa, Japan, The Azores, France, Italy and Spain.

The new programme was launched in January this year and is already proving to be a huge success. RHS Garden Holidays will inspire all from

the greenest of gardeners to more experienced horticulturists, with visits to private gardens, private or expert tours of exceptional public and botanical gardens and the chance to see many plants in their natural habitat. The tours are also rich in cultural highlights, making them of equal appeal to any non-gardening travel companions.

The new programme contains a total of 10 tours . Each tour is accompanied by one of Collette’s expert tour leaders, with local guides also being used where appropriate. In addition,

some departures will also be accompanied by an RHS horticulturist such as a Curator or specialist in their field.

Peter Traynor, UK General Manager, Collette Worldwide Holidays, is thrilled with the new addition to Collette’s range of tours and says “Everyone at Collette is very excited to be working with such a well-respected organisation as the Royal Horticultural Society. We know from feedback from our clients that there is great demand for holidays that revolve around specific fields of interest, particularly a

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a in the escorted tours market. By

combining our two respective areas of expertise in travel and gardening, we’ve been able to create some wonderful itineraries.”

The itineraries really are a gardener’s delight. In France, there is the chance to visit the gardens at Plessis Sasnieres in the Loire, as personal guests of the owner; in Rome, there is a specialist tour of the Vatican Gardens; in New Zealand, the tour includes visits to three stunning private gardens in Queenstown and in the USA, clients will enjoy exclusive access to the Rockefeller Estate, Kyjuit and Edith Wharton’s home.

For further information on Collette Holidays or escorted tours, please contact the Baldwins Travel Group.

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A week in the life of a Travel Specialist @ Baldwins Travel

by Linda Dwan, Assistant Manager 50 mmm

We were met at the check in desk by Prue Rushmer who quickly arranged our check in procedure. There were only four in the group, one being her daughter Gemma, the other four were departing from Manchester. An Etihad ground handler showed us the Business Class lounge which was impressive compared to other airline’s lounges that I have seen. We were very fortunate to experience Business Class both ways. The service and staff was exceptional as was the choice of food. We were also shown the First Class cabin.

Bianca in Business Class!

On arrival in Abu Dhabi our ground handler SNTTA were there to meet us.

They took us straight to the Park Hyatt on Saadiyet Island, a journey of about 40 minutes. We travelled throughout our stay in a large minivan which was very comfortable. Our driver Aman made our transfers fun as he told us of his family life which was very interesting.

On arrival we were quickly checked in and shown to our rooms. As usual we only had 20 minutes to get ready for our hosted buffet dinner which was followed by cocktails on the terrace! This had to be curtailed due to the rain, but by then we were all ready for bed as it had been a long day.

26th April One of the pools at the Park Hyatt After our buffet breakfast we had a site inspection of the hotel which has 306 rooms, suites and villas. The villas are beach or garden facing with private pools. Three restaurants, two bars an impressive spa, four swimming pools including a large children’s pool and kids club. There is a 18 hole golf course nearby.

I liked this hotel for its beach front location and would definitely recommend this to families. The staff at the hotel were very friendly and approachable. Zaida Marin, Director of Sales, could not meet with us but her representative made us feel very welcome.

We then had a coffee on the terrace before our transfer of about seven minutes to the St. Regis Saadiyat Island.

A pool at the St Regis After a very long check in procedure we were shown to our rooms followed straight away for the site inspection. 377 rooms, suites, four restaurants, two lounges, bars, four swimming pools, indoor lap pool, gym, spa, squash courts. Nearby is the Saadiyet Beach Golf Club. Bottleneck Dolphins can often been seen from the beach We then had a late lunch followed by an hour round the pool before getting ready for our hosted dinner. This again was followed by cocktails on the terrace.

27th April Breakfast was in the large open plan restaurant. Many people had to queue to get in, which is bad for a five star hotel.

I found this hotel complex too big and impersonal.

We then checked out and were transferred to the Eastern Mangroves Hotel and Spa by Anantara, which is in the city centre.

On arrival we were shown round the hotel by Eliza Yusay, the sales co-ordinator. This hotel has three room types, all with balconies and some with private plunge pools. There is one Royal Residence which can be made into three, seven or ten bedrooms. There are choices of restaurants and bars, a fully equipped gym and a ladies only gym and a spa with 10 treatment rooms. This hotel is more suitable for business than the leisure market.

Exterior of the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort We had a buffet lunch before starting our two hour journey to the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara in the Liwa Desert.

On arrival we were quickly checked in and shown to our rooms. This was followed by a site inspection conducted on buggies due to size of the complex.

This hotel has 206 rooms, suites and one, two and three bedroom villas. a

a There is a swimming pool and fitness centre including a kinesis wall, yoga and aerobics studio, weights and cardio room,

kids club, restaurants and lounges.We then had time for a quick swim before getting ready for our un-hosted dinner. We were due to eat on the sand dunes but as it was raining yet again we ate in the Al Waha buffet restaurant. This is a lovely complex to escape for a few days. You can experience several desert activities, camel trekking, falconry, desert drives, walks and archery 28th April One of the pools at the Emirates We had a leisurely breakfast on the terrace before our long transfer back to Abu Dhabi. This took even longer than normal as it was raining heavily. This made our next site inspection at the Emirates Palace rushed. The hotel is managed by Kempinski. We were met by Shigeki Urier, who again was very welcoming. The hotel is an impressive site of extravagance, costing $3 billion. Split into two wings east and west you can access the beach from both.

394 rooms and suites, 24 hour butler service, 15 food and beverage options, two pools, a lazy river, waterslides spa, two fitness centres, tennis courts, kids club. This is not my type of hotel but of course there will be many discerning guests who will like the elegance and opulence.

We then were transferred to the Shangri-La- Hotel Qaryat Al Beri for a site inspection followed by lunch, hosted by Catherine Casas, Sales Co-ordinator. This hotel is located on a kilom10 minutes from the airport, with 214 rooms and suites, six four bedroom villas with private pools, club floor, five restaurant, three bars, gift shop, three pools, three children’s pools, spa and fitness centre.

I like this hotel and would recommend to couples and families.

We then made our way to Yas Viceroy on Yas Island, which spans the marina circuit, the racetrack for Formula 1. We were quickly shown to our rooms. Some rooms look over the marina.

We then had time for a swim before getting ready for our site inspection followed by our hosted dinner with Michela CelenaSenior Sales Manager who really made us feel most welcome.

The outside area of the hotel has a changing array of lighting… very pretty!

This hotel has 499 rooms and suites, seven restaurants, a lobby patisserie, two bars (one located on the roof and other with views of the race track), and two rooftop pools. The new Yas beach is only a two minute transfer away, operated free by the hotel. There are beach amenities, food and beverages available.

29th April We had another leisurely buffet breakfast before we went by taxi to Ferrari World which is the world’s largest indoor theme park. It is shut to the public on Mondays but we were given a guided tour but could not participate in any of the 20 rides or the world’s fastest rollercoaster! We then went to the new Yas Waterworld which only opened in January.

This features a looping waterslide and a six person waterslide, the largest sheet wave surfing ride in the world, and the world’s first suspended water rollercoaster equipped with water bombs and laser guns.

I AM GLAD WE ONLY VISITED!! We then went back to the Viceroy for another hosted lunch with Michela. The rest of the day was at leisure which I spent around the pool before getting ready for our journey home. This was a very well organised familiarisation trip to an amazing relatively new destination to the UK market. With only a short seven hour flight served by Etihad, which I would thoroughly recommend, I am sure with the many choices of luxury hotels and the many experiences available it will become a top selling destination.

If you would like advice on any aspect of this trip, then Linda will be delighted to hear from you.

Email linda@baldwins-travel.co.uk or call 01732 351223.

mmm home

n Why not take time out and view the Government’s new Help to Buy initiative at Swale Park

n Barbecue getting tired? Why not invest in a new one?

To promote your business call 01622 299035 or e-mail sales@mmm-media.com

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BBQ Season Arrives

AFTER a scorching July, the summer season is truly with us. And nothing says summer more than heading into the garden or to the beach or park and opening up the barbecue.

The good news is that whatever your budget, there's the perfect BBQ for you, with a staggering range now available. From disposables costing just a few pounds to giant gas-powered machines with all the trimmings, there really is a BBQ out there just for you.We take a look at three of the more unusual.

Few would argue that barbecues are generally not things of great beauty. Even the most sophisticated can still look odd in the winter months, draped in their waterproof cover.

So perhaps this is the solution. When you're not using it as a firepit BBQ, you simply put the lid on it and, voila, you have a regular table suitable of gracing your patio outside the summer season.

Napoli Mosaic Firebowl and Table, ÂŁ140

in Style

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If you really want to impress the neighbours this summer, then wheeling one of these onto your patio should do the trick.

Big in the States, smokers slow-cook meat, with wood chips infusing a flavour which is adds a real difference to your outdoor cooking menu.

This model may be a more sophisticated beast, but there are more basic models from around the £100 mark.

Fornetto Wood Fired Oven and Smoker, £899

The O-Grill 3000, £160 Endorsed by celebrity chef Marco Pierre White, this clever little BBQ folds-up into a steel-clamshell – which makes it truly portable.

Ideal if you want to impress on the beach or at a countryside picnic.

What's more, it has attachments to plug in a full-size Calor Gas cannister should you want it to take up a more permanent home on your patio.

Summer Break Tree wall clock, £30 Next

Sherlock snuggle chair, £550 accessories from £12 Next Daisy Shade, £76

Marks & Spencers

Sonoma light display shelving unit £499

n, £30

Mr Hedgehog cushio

ser

House of Fra

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hion el Cus r r i u q S ext £30 N

Metal leaf vase, £35 Next

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New branch opening in August at Elm Court Garden Centre, Gillingham, Kent

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Jacksons Fencing news, topical treats and more... mmm 61

One of Jacksons show stands featuring the new premium stable

I can only think that you took me up on my invitation, because we certainly had a lot of visitors to our stands, so thanks for coming to see us.

You may, or may not, have noticed I skipped a month in July, as I went off in search of the sun, as there was precious little sun here in Blighty!

I hope by the time you read this in August we will be basking in full summer sun… hmmmn, well I can hope!

I last wrote in June, mentioning that it was the summer show season and hoping that you would come and visit us at the various shows we were attending in your area...

We’ve got a new offer for you to run throughout August and September, which may spur you on to leap in to action and get the garden project done, that you wish you’d started earlier in the year.

We are offering half price delivery on products in both the Good Fencing Guide and the new Equestrian ranges, full details as ever are on your local page: www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/ ashfordlocal

The Shadow garden in Canterbury

To be in with a chance to win one of our raised bed kits simply log on to your local page, address below, and following the easy instructions on how to enter. The draw closes 30.9.13. Previous Prize Draw winners are posted on the web page.

To enter go to: July was a busy month for us at Jacksons in Kent, along with all the other shows we attended we also installed the Shadow Garden into Whitefriars Square in Canterbury with a large launch event with a Samba band that certainly made people take notice.

The Garden should be there until at least September, so if you are

in Canterbury do pop along and have a look at the winning design, as it is now there in its full glory. We are running a Free Prize Draw to visitors to the square, so fill in a form whilst you are there, you could win a Retreat shelter (as seen in the Sanctuary show garden at Jacksons HQ) and deck, or a professional garden design or £500 of Jacksons vouchers.

louise@jacksons-fencing.co.uk

A new collection of coastal homes launch with help to buy

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T

HE Government’s new Help to Buy initiative is now being offered by Weston Homes at Swale Park, a popular residential development nested between the coastal town of Whitstable and the pretty Kent countryside. The scheme will enable those looking to secure their dream home at

Swale Park to do so with a deposit of just 5%.

The developer is also set to release their final phase of one and two bedroom apartments with prices from £129,000, offering a wider choice of options for prospective buyers eager to take advantage of the new low-deposit scheme. The

introduction of the initiative means that both first time buyers and current home owners do not need to save the traditionally large deposits often required by lenders, and that buyers can secure a home at Swale Park with a deposit as little as £6,450. Help to Buy will guarantee 20% of the price as an equity loan,

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repayable on the future sale of the property.

Swale Park will comprise 236 contemporary homes in a variety of sizes, styles and layouts, offering homes that appeal to a wide range of buyers from young professionals and first-time buyers to families and downsizers.

The apartments at Swale Park are finished to the Weston Homes signature high standard of specification. State of the art bathrooms and en-suites feature contemporary fittings. Fully integrated kitchens come with a choice of designer units and worktops and high quality appliances. Sky+ facilities and telephone points are pre-installed in lounges and master bedrooms, and quality wooden flooring features throughout.

Bob Weston, Chairman and Founder of Weston Homes, comments: “Help to Buy is a wonderful initiative by the Government that offers buyers a helping hand when making

their first or even second property purchase. We’ve made the scheme available in our new collection of apartments at Swale Park to attract buyers to the scheme who have perhaps thought that owning a dream coastal home, which is the desire of many, is out of reach. Good location, quality finishes and access to Help to Buy in this established development will most certainly sustain the strong interest we have already seen.”

In recent years, Kent’s coastal resorts have become increasingly popular with people wanting to find a relaxed location for seaside living with direct train services to London. Other parts of Kent and South East England are close to hand via the A2 and M2 and the ports of Ramsgate and Dover, less than an hour’s drive away, offer direct travel to France and Belgium.

Whitstable’s charm with its array of

chic boutiques, galleries, bars, cafes, restaurants and the annual Oyster Festival draws visitors and locals alike. Canterbury, with its famous cathedral and excellent shopping, is only a 15 minute drive away, with several other historic resorts and fishing ports including Herne Bay, Broadstairs, Ramsgate and Deal within easy reach.

The new collection of apartments will be on sale from mid-August with anticipated completions in summer 2014. A new sales office will also open on-site with excellent models detailing the design of the development and expert sales consultants are on-hand to offer advice and further information to those interested in the homes available.

Prices start from £129,000.

For more information call 01227 275883 or visit www.weston-homes.com/swalepark.

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MOTORS What better way to enjoy the summer than behind the wheel of a convertible – drawing enviable looks as the wind rushes through your hair and you get a driving experience quite unlike any other.

We take a look at three very different cars which may be just what you're looking for ...

Corvette Stingray HERE'S one for you to save up for next year.

At the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year Chevrolet unveiled the 2014 Corvette Stingray – a 450-horsepower

packing soft-top which is the most powerful standard Corvette in history.

You don't just get the looks of a sporty Corvette either; the latest model will pack all the mod cons

as well as taking you from 0-60mph in less than four seconds.

Start saving now and it could be yours when it hits forecourts next year priced at around £62,000.

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MOTORS

Vauxhall Cascada THE bigger, more expensive open-tops will always win all the most lustful looks... but there remains a growing mid-market for cars which don't require a second mortgage to allow you to catch some rays

while chalking up the miles.

And the Vauxhall Cascada is just one of the growing number looking to lure in the summer sales.

Going up against the likes of the VW Eos, Golf Cabriolet and

BMW 1 Series, the Cascada will set you back around £23,995 – some £8,000 less than the Audi A5 Cabriolet.

For a four-seater it may offer the bargain of the season.

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Jazz singer and pianist Chiara Civello is the new ambassador of the Range Rover Evoque

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MOTORS

The Mini Convertible FROM the day it first drove on to our roads to its more recent relaunch, the Mini has always been about making motoring fun – and its latest soft-top is no exception.

The classic Mini didn't officially

go topless, so to speak, until it was 34 years old, but it has, since then, grown a devoted band of admirers.

What's more, joining it in a bid for your hard-earned cash is the Mini Roadster – the first open-

top two-seater in the company's history.

Both offer eye-catching motoring – complete with the chance of topping up your tan en-route.

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BUSINESS

Theatre and Marketing Managers’ Association

Drive to increase ticket sales A GROUP of theatres from across the county have teamed up in a bid to drive up ticket sales.

The newly formed Kent Theatre and Marketing Managers' Association features a host of the best known theatres – among them the Hazlitt in Maidstone, the Assembly Hall in Tunbridge Wells and Bromley's Churchill Theatre.

Top of the bill for the group will be to commission market research into the buying habits of the county's theatre-goers and

how best to co-ordinated marketing campaigns for maximum impact.

So far 10 theatres have joined the consortium, with hopes the remaining venues – which include the likes of Chatham's Central Theatre and Canterbury's Marlowe – will sign up soon.

Neil Chandler, general manager at the Woodville in Gravesend, has been elected the association's first chairman.

He said: “It is important to us as a group of theatre and marketing managers that we begin to understand how tickets are sold, how many are sold, and why.

“With detailed audience figures from across Kent, we should be able to see where theatre-goers are travelling from and how far, so we can target marketing to these areas for particular shows.”

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BUSINESS Barclays

New banking facilities at Kings Hill BANKING giant Barclays has opened a new office at Kings Hill – offering what it describes as a full range of banking, investment and wealth advisory services.

The new office in Tower View comprises six specialist sector corporate banking relationship directors, working alongside private bankers and wealth advisors.

Ian Bain at Barclays said: “This is an exciting move for the corporate banking team that will enhance our facilities and ideally place us to provide greater support and accessibility to all our clients. We also welcome Mark Moran as the new corporate director who will be leading the team. Mark has gained extensive experience of working with business clients across Kent for the last 19 years.”

There are now approximately 170 private bankers across London and the south east, and the decision to base a dedicated wealth and investment management team in Kings Hill reflects the area’s growing affluence.

Robin Reynolds, regional director for Barclays wealth and investment management in Kent, said: “As our UK footprint continues to grow, we are delighted to open a new, local office which demonstrates our commitment to building our presence in the south east.

This latest office opening is testament to the momentum we are seeing as we continue to invest in our business and talent across the regions.

“Kent is a fantastic place to do business, and the decision to invest in new offices in Kings Hill underpins our belief in the prospects for the local economy and wealth in the region.”

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Kent County Show

75,000 visitors attend show ORGANISERS of the Kent County Show on 12th, 13th 14th July, 2013, are delighted to report that 75,000 people attended the Kent County Show.

The three gloriously sunny days were very welcome after the disappointing weather in both 2011 and 2012.

Kevin Attwood, Chairman said “The Kent County Agricultural Society, works incredibly hard each year to put on the annual event. Whilst we are unable to control the weather, the sunshine

certainly encourages significantly more visitors to attend.

“We have been overwhelmed

Women 1st Top 100 Club

Additional members to the club FOR years she has been the public face for the body looking to promote Kent as a major tourist destination – now she's found herself named as one of the UK's most influential businesswomen.

Sandra Matthews-Marsh has long been chief executive of Visit Kent – the public/private partnership which is dedicated to growing the tourism industry – in addition to last year being elected vice-chairman of the Tourism Society, the professional membership organisation for the industry, boasting more than 1,000 members.

And now she can add being part of the Women 1st Top 100 Club.

The fruit of People 1st, the sector

skills council for hospitality, passenger transport, travel and tourism, Women 1st was founded to help support women achieve their goals in the industry.

Launched last year, Women 1st, which runs the Top 100 Club and the Shine Awards, offers thought leadership on gender diversity,

with the public support and can only thank our stewards, exhibitors and trade stands for putting on a first-class show”.

The Kent County Show celebrated the very best of the county. At the forefront was a social media campaign over the three days with many hundreds of people interacting through Facebook and Twitter.

Lucy Hegarty, Show Manager, said, “We have had some really positive feedback and the general consensus is the show was a resounding success, with many of our visitors letting us know what they enjoyed and what we could work on for next year”.

The dates for the 2014 Kent County Show are 11th, 12th and 13th July.

continuing professional development training, a mentoring programme and networking events.

Mrs Matthews-Marsh was chosen to be included into the Women 1st Top 100 Club alongside other new members including Harriet Green, group chief executive for Thomas Cook; Jo Boydell, chief financial officer at Travelodge; Caroline White, chief executive at the Youth Hostel Association; and Sue Kemp, divisional director at Legoland, Windsor.

Mrs Matthews-Marsh said: “This is a great honour built on the support I have had from many professionals, both men and women, in my own career.

“It is an opportunity to influence at the highest levels, key industry issues facing women that I have been passionate about throughout my career in tourism and have worked hard to address during my ten years with Visit Kent.”

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An event to be proud of Fraser Harts of Maidstone held its first red carpet event for Rolex recently and it was a huge success.

The sparkling night with the new collection from Rolex, which has not been seen in the UK before, was launched at the famous Basil Watch Fair held in Switzerland in May. More than 40 guests were invited by invitation only.

Champagne and canapĂŠs were served and the harpist added to the atmosphere.

Behind The Screen at Somerset House

8-21 August 2013

To coincide with Film4 Summer Screen, Somerset House presents ‘Behind the Screen’ – a specially curated series of talks exploring the art and craft of cinema to accompany this year’s programme of film screenings. Held before the main screening, these illuminating talks offer industry insights into the films including talks from the Oscar winning writers of The Way Way Back, and David Gordon Green, director of Prince Avalanche, both of which are premiering at Film4 Summer Screen.

Doors open at 18.30 for a complimentary glass of Bordeaux wine in the Behind the Screen bar, accessed from the River Terrace entrance via Waterloo Bridge. Talks start at 19.00 and last approximately one hour. Full programme below: Saturday 10 August The Great Teen Movie Debate To accompany this evening’s triplebill screenings of Mean Girls, Carrie and The Loves Ones, Charlie Lyne, writer, founder of acclaimed film blog Ultra Culture and director of upcoming documentary exploring the teen movie revolution, Beyond Clueless, hosts the ultimate high school movie debate.

Tuesday 13 August Nat Faxon and Jim Rash in Conversation After winning an Oscar for co-writing Alexander Payne’s The Descendants, multi-talented filmmaking duo Jim Rash and Nat Faxon have also co-written and directed their first feature film, The Way Way Back, in which they also perform in the ensemble cast. We’re thrilled to welcome them to Somerset House on the night of the film’s UK premiere.

Wednesday 14 August Film4 Shorts A specially curated programme of short films from Film4 Productions.

As well as developing and financing

features such as The Iron Lady and Sightseers, Film4 works with new and up-and-coming talent to make a number of shorts each year.

Tonight’s screening will provide audiences with the chance to catch up with recent films such as Jonah and Flytopia, and meet some of the exciting young filmmakers behind them.

Thursday 15 August Japanese Gothic in association with the BFI Gothic Season The ghost story, born of murder or unfulfilled desire, is a classic tale continually retold in film. This talk with writer and film curator Jasper Sharp will explore the evolution of supernatural gothic in Japanese cinema and culture. bfi.org.uk/gothic Monday 19 August Cameraman: The Life and Times of Jack Cardiff (PG 86mins) + Director’s Introduction Director Craig McCay introduces his stunning documentary examining the life of one of the UK’s most important filmmaking talents, Jack Cardiff, the visionary Director of Photography behind classics such

as The African Queen, Black Narcissus and The Red Shoes. *Please note this event will last approximately 1 hour 45 minutes including the screening of the film.

Wednesday 21 August David Gordon Green in Conversation Thirteen years ago David Gordon Green’s debut feature, George Washington, announced him as one of cinema’s most distinctive new voices. He has since built an eclectic filmography ranging from intimate dramas to broader comedies, such as Pineapple Express. We’re delighted to welcome him on the night of the UK premiere of his most recent film, Prince Avalanche.

Behind the Screen tickets give access to Behind the Screen events only. Tickets for film screenings must be purchased separately. In conjunction with a purchased ticket to Film4 Summer Screen, Behind the Screen tickets give access to a reserved space in the courtyard for the main film.

t e s r e m o S t a s e i t i Other film activ use this summer Ho Saturday 10 August, 11.00-15.00 FREE Studio, South Wing Be Animated about Film: for families with accompanied children aged 6-12 years.

For those fanatical about film and cartoons, this free family-friendly drop-in workshop of cinematic fun will explore simple forms of animation and an opportunity to create miniature set designs and stop-frame motion creations.

1-21 August, daily 10am – 18.00 FREE West Wing Galleries Print Club London: Summer Screen Prints An exhibition of editioned hand screen printed film posters to coincide with Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House with American Express®

To celebrate with this year’s screenings, Somerset House and Film4 have teamed up with Dalston studios Print Club London to curate a one-off poster exhibition in the newly opened West Wing Galleries.

Working with some of the biggest and best illustrators from the UK and USA, they will design and produce 17 new, original silk screen prints inspired by the roster of films screened at Film4 Summer Screen with American Express this year.

Some of the illustrators include Kate Gibb (creator of Chemical Brothers album artwork) designing the Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid poster, Anthony Burrill designing the UK Premiere film, The Way Way Back poster and Hattie Stewart designing the Mean Girls poster. The prints will be editions of 200, each signed by the artist and for sale at £40. mmm

Tickets go o n sale Friday 28 Ju ne To book tick ets, visit somersethou se.org.uk/ film4summer screenbehindthescr een or call Ticke tmaster on 0844 847 1715 Behind the S creen as par t of Film4 Summ er Screen ru ns on selected dat es from 8-21 August 2013 Ticket prices: £11 (includes booking fee and a glass of win e) Doors open 18.30, Talk st arts 19.00 in Scree ning Room (enter via the River Terrac e entrance), So merset House , London, WC 2R 1LA For further in formation, please visit www.somerse thouse.org.u k/ film4summer screenbehindthescr een

Edenbridge and Oxted

Agricultural Show

From Bank Holiday Sunday 25th to Monday 26th August, Ardenrun Showground in Surrey will play host to the annual Edenbridge and Oxted Agricultural Show...

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HE annual Edenbridge and Oxted Agricultural Show is an outdoor classroom and playground all rolled into one for children – and this year it is all for free. The 120 acre showground will be filled with all the family favourites and some new attractions too. Nonstop entertainment in the main ring will include the Lamb Nationals – agile Herdwick sheep negotiating the race track with hilarious consequences, and the Bob Hogg Sheep and Duck Display which involves the youngest visitors coming into the ring and acting as extra sheepdogs to herd ducks over obstacles.

There are also opportunities all around the showground for close

encounters with Alpacas, Bbats, Bees, Cattle, Dogs, Donkeys, Falcons, Ferrets, Goats, Guinea Pigs, Hawks, Horses, Llama, Mules, Owls, Parrots, Ponies, Poultry, Rabbits and Sheep.

New this year is Polly’s Parrots’ Roadshow featuring rescued Macaws, Cockateels and other parrots in a colourful, unpredictable, informative and above all fun show, repeated throughout the two days.

There will be Falconry displays, Cavalcades of Footpacks and Foxhounds, Gun Dog competitions and Dog Agility and Obedience displays on both days. On Monday enjoy Terrier Racing and a Working Terrier Show together with an Exemption Dog Show. Bring your dog along to take part.

Over 1,500 horses, ponies and donkeys from Thelwells to Shires will be taking part in more than 100 different classes ranging from gymkhana classes to Horse of the Year Show qualifiers.

The Red Barn Victorian Village Square, introduced last year to celebrate the 175th anniversary of the year the Show started in 1837 – also the year that Queen Victoria came to the throne, proved to be so popular with visitors that it is returning with a children’s entertainment section alongside the licenced refreshments section.

Since the show started over 175 years ago, quality

British produce has been at the heart of the show which now boasts the largest display of cattle in the South East. As well as the awardwinning livestock, the wonderful Food Hall presents British and regionally-produced delicacies to eat at the showground or take home and the magnificent Horticultural marquee displays some of the finest vegetables and flowers grown in Britain. To encourage local children to get growing, Young Persons’ vegetable and flower classes were introduced last year and proved very popular. They are free to enter and entry forms are available at www.edenbridge-show.co.uk.

The two day Show will also feature Vintage and Classic cars. Learn about keeping poultry and beekeeping. Have a go at archery, clay shooting and fly-fishing. See the magnificent Shire Horses in the Heavy Horse Village and watch the farriers at work and taking part in shoeing competitions. The whole family can make crafts in the WI marquee and enjoy the magnificent carousel and traditional fairground rides. There is a creche facility for younger visitors and a family picnic area. There will be live bands to serenade visitors. On Monday the main ring will also host one of the largest collections of magnificent coaches and carriages pulled by four, five and six horses in the south east – it will look like a scene from a historic movie set: just one of the many spectacles planned for this year’s Show. mmm

mmm Maidstone, Medway Magazine

mmm Maidstone, Medway Magazine Issue 19, August 2013 Complimentary

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HURTWOOD PARK

See rock legend Kenney Jones’ polo club

ROCHESTER CASTLE Take a trip to Medway this summer

CATHERINE ZETA JONES The Welsh superstar, and her career beginnings in Kent

August 2013

n Fashion n Travel n Business n Entertainment n And much, much more