MMM Magazine September'14 by Rasa Dregva

Issue 32, September 2014 Complimentary

A TAXING ISSUE FOR THE FUNNY MAN Has Jimmy Carr ﬁnally shrugged off that scandal?

EVOLUTION OF

s OTHER feature

A FAMILY HOME

The artist formerly known as Vic Reeves

Lighting ideas for your ho

How Charles Darwin’s house remains a tribute to his scientiﬁc legacy

THE ROLLERCOASTER LIFE OF RUTHIE HENSHALL From tragedy to triumph for West End favourite

PLUS

, usiness B , s t n e Ev t, Travel, tainmen r e t n E , ore History much m , h c u m And

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Designer: Teresa Helbig

Designer: Juan Jooliva Designer: Teresa Helbig

Designer: Roberto Torretta

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Designer: Teresa Helbig

Designer: Prokhorova Designer: Teresa Helbig

Designer: Teresa Helbig

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Welcome

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Last month I wrote here about the wonder of the summer holidays. So it is perhaps only fitting that September always reminds me of a return to school. Even now, all these years later, I can still remember the anxiety as the six week break came to an end only to be replaced by the relief that school wasn't as excruciating as I had convinced myself it was during those long, lazy August days! Of course it's been an anxious time for many recently as GCSE and A-Level results were received, followed by the annual scramble to get into a suitable college, sixth form or university. If you, your friends or family, have experienced that rollercoaster recently, I hope it all eventually worked out well. September also marks something of a return to normality. Most people have got their annual holidays out of the way and although the weather is normally pretty good, you start to get a few reminders that autumn is just around the corner; chilly mornings and those evenings drawing in. So this month we've made sure we've plenty to take your mind off things as we evolve from one part of the year to the next. Evolution is certainly something close to the heart of Charles Darwin. We take a look at how he came to Kent where he would write his most influential of books – On The Origin of Species. Meanwhile, someone else who has evolved a great deal over the last 20 years is Vic Reeves. From zany comic to artist and actor, he's enjoyed a remarkable career since he arrived with his Big Night Out. And during those years he has lived in the county – becoming a familiar face to many locally. Another star of the stage with Kentish roots is Ruthie Henshall – one of the West End's leading ladies and shining lights. We look at her remarkable life with all its ups and downs. So enjoy the last of the sun this year and, as ever, I hope you enjoy this month's mmm. See you next month! Rasa

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mmm MMM Media Ltd GHL House 1st Floor 12-14 Albion Place Maidstone Kent ME14 5DZ Tel: 01622 299035 sales@mmm-media.com www.mmm-media.com Publisher Rasa Dregva Editor Tom White Travel Editor Tricia Lester Design Matthew Jones Karen Oliver Sales Karen Page Dawn Long Accounts Kerry Head Further contribution Robin J Brooks Christine Furlonger

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. © MMM Media Ltd 2014

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RUTHIE HENSHALL The rollercoaster life of Ruthie Henshall

pRopERTy The latest Kent property located in Bobbing

jImmy cARR A taxing issue for a funny man

moToRS Latest news from mercedes-Benz

food check out our recipes for Autumn

BUSINESS Local business news in Kent

vIc REEvES The artist formerly known as vic Reeves

BATTLE of BRITAIN Robin Brooks looks back at the Battle of Britain day

TRAvEL discover Tunisia, Gibraltar – the vibrant city

WALmER cASTLE The perfect final touch to your garden

cHARLES dARWIN Evolution of a family home

EvENTS What’s on in and around Kent this month

LIGHTING Lighting ideas for your home

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The rollercoasTer life of ruthie henshall From tragedy to triumph for West End favourite

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t is sometimes easy to forget that a hugely successful career on the stage can comfortably eclipse that achieved on the small or big screen and Ruthie Henshall is surely proof of that. She is one of the best loved, and highly polished, performers on the musical stage with a reputation which stretches from London’s West End to New York’s Broadway. What’s more, she’s dated royalty and famous faces. But life has been far from smooth for the former judge on ITV’s Dancing on Ice celebrity talent show. Her mother suffered terrible depression – which she would go on to inherit - and during her youth she has admitted she was sexually abused by a family friend. Then, just a few years ago, her sister Noel took an overdose and killed herself. Yet she remains remarkably resilient – choosing instead to use life’s challenges and seek a way to draw strength for the future.

Today, as a mother of two daughters – aged 11 and nine – she appears to have the world at her feet. She has become a by-word for quality, performing in many of the biggest and most celebrated productions on both sides of the Atlantic. Now 47, she was born in Bromley and got her first big West End break when, at the age of 19, she was cast in the success story of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats. She explains: “I came into musical theatre when it was incredibly buoyant with all those ‘juggernaut’ musicals like Les Miserables, Cats and Phantom of the Opera. “It was very exciting to be part of that time and it still is because it’s a roller coaster business to be in. “The West End is once again quite buoyant but it goes in cycles and when a recession hits, musical theatre is one of the first things that people stop going to, when in actual fact it is probably the time when people really need to go. a

“i used to speak to her on the phone and i had no idea she was so low. i now know that if someone is planning suicide they can suddenly seem ﬁne because they are at peace with their decision. It’s a real red ﬂag”

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“But people love musicals. They can transport people on an incredible journey. “That’s what I love about it and the fact that musicals are being made into films again, makes me very happy because I grew up with the great MGM musicals and I’m sure there will be a new generation just as inspired as I was.” Musicals are certainly very much back in vogue, following the enormous success of Les Miserables’ big screen adaptation and an increasing cross-over of well known films and books onto the stage.Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, the Lion King and Shrek to name but three. So how has Ruthie Henshall managed to make such a name for herself in a highly competitive sector? Born in March 1967, to her parents David and Gloria, she was the youngest of four daughters, but her childhood would have a terrible shadow cast over it. Only in recent years, did she publicly reveal a dark family secret – that from the age of four, she suffered at the hands of a family friend. She explained: “He was clever. Even though my sister Abi was in the house he would get me alone. “I know that most paedophiles have been abused themselves but they should get help. The abuse changed me instantly. The world no longer felt safe, and I felt it was all my fault. “He frightened me as much by what he said afterwards as by what he’d done. I don’t remember the words he

used, but I can clearly recall his finger wagging in my face and the threat of what would happen if I told anyone “our” secret. I was very, very scared, properly afraid.” The abuse continued four years later – a terrified Ruthie too scared to tell a soul. The same man repeated the abuse when Ruthie was eight and nine. ‘And I never breathed a word to anyone.’ “It destroyed any pleasure I might have in sex: for years,” she explained. During her childhood she developed a love of performance – initially wanting to pursue a career in ballet. But song and dance became a clear talent and at 19 she joined the cast of Cats – the hugely successful West End musical. It was while working on the show, she met Prince Edward. The eligible bachelor was then working for Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Really Useful Group and so a regular in the theatre and behind the scenes. “I was totally unfazed about chatting to him — the arrogance of youth, I suppose,” she remembers. It would quickly lead to an on-off romance which would stretch over the next five years. Often smuggled into Buckingham Palace – once even in the boot of a car – she even would have supper with Edward’s parents. And if you thought meeting your boyfriend’s parents was a frightening experience, imagine if his mother was the monarch! “‘It was a bit nerve-racking at first, but the Queen and Prince Philip are used to putting people at their ease.”a

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But the relationship would not last and the two parted company – although on such good terms that she would be invited to attend his wedding to Sophie, several years later. “Of course,” she quips, “my mother would have loved it if we had married – but I wouldn’t have been able to have the career I’ve now got.” That career would see her secure key roles in the likes of Chicago, Crazy for You, She Loves Me and Oliver! As her career took off, so did a relationship with the actor John Gordon Sinclair – the pair eventually getting engaged in the mid 1990’s. But after making the switch to Broadway in Chicago, they split, Ruthie found her depression catch up with her. “I’d be fine on stage, hiding behind the mask of the role I was playing. Then I’d go out after the show and lie in bed the following morning until midday. I was putting my life on hold. I never stopped long enough to confront my underlying depression. And I was using alcohol to numb my emotions.

“I thought I had tried everything to improve my state of mind: positive thinking, yoga, sticking up affirmations all over the place. “The emotional pain was so terrible that it became a physical pain. I felt I was losing my mind. “I went to the doctor and they eventually prescribed anti-depressants. I thought it was shameful, but it was like someone had flicked a switch.” It allowed her to turn her life around. While performing in the West End on Peggy Sue Got Married, she met actor Tim Howar. The two would marry in 2004 and produce two children. But Ruthie’s happiness would be short-lived. Her older sister Noel, after emerging from a difficult relationship, committed suicide. It shocked Ruthie to her core. “I’m never going to get over it, none of us are. And we’re never going to stop missing her. If I’m honest, I also felt anger towards Noel. I’d got my life back on track and now this. a

FAct FilE Name: Valentine ruth henshall Age: 51 (March 7, 1967) Born: london, england Occupation: actress, singer, dancer Solo Albums: i’ve loved These Days The ruthie henshall album Pilgrim ruthie henshall sings Gershwin

West End Musicals cats (1987) she loves Me (1994) crazy for You (1993-1994) chicago (1997-1998) Peggie sue Got Married (2001) Marguerite (2008)

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I know that will sound selfish, but I couldn’t help it. “She had absolutely planned her death. Everything was organised two months before she died - she’d paid off her credit cards, her car lease, her rent. And she left her flat pristine. “I used to speak to her on the phone and I had no idea she was so low. I now know that if someone is planning suicide, they can suddenly seem fine because they are at peace with their decision. It’s a real red flag.” Two years later, her marriage with Tim Howar floundered and they separated – divorcing the following year – although remaining friends. Her career, however, continues upwards. She returned, four years ago, to Broadway to play Roxie Hart in Chicago and started a production company, Three Pin Productions, which has toured extensively across the UK over the last two years. “There’s a saying I like ‘yesterday’s history, tomorrow’s a mystery. But today’s a gift. That’s why it’s called the present’ – which is corny, but it doesn’t stop it being true”. mmm

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A TAXING ISSUE for a funny man Has Jimmy Carr ﬁnally shrugged off THAT scandal?

t was all going so well for Jimmy Carr. He had established himself as one of TV’s most reliably funny, edgy, comedians and presenters with his sharp suits and infectious, distinctive laugh. But when he arrives back in Kent later this year for a string of shows which take in Dartford in September and continues to take in the likes of Margate, Tunbridge Wells, Folkestone and Canterbury by July 2015, he will be best known for something else altogether. His tax affairs and their exposure in 2012 lead him down a path of humiliation and even criticism from the Prime Minister. For a man who had frequently lampooned the tax avoiders in his role on the Channel 4 show 10 o’clock Live, many feared it would leave his career in tatters

and ﬁnally end his remarkable rise. But two years on, and Jimmy Carr remains one of the most popular characters in the entertainment world. He continues to front the hugely popular 8 Out of 10 Cats on Channel 4, is a regular on Sky’s a League of Their Own and the ever popular QI. What’s more his tours continue to deliver plenty of business his way. He may well have pulled out of the controversial K2 tax avoidance scheme which threatens to scupper everything – but he’s certainly making up for any more tax he has to pay. He has not shirked from the embarrassment of the tax problem – frequently poking fun at himself and allowing others to do so too. In the days after the scandal he said: “I haven’t done anything illegal, but morally a bit dodgy.

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“It has been difficult. It’s been pretty tough but I’m not a bad guy and I’m sorry. What I did was morally wrong and I accept that. “I just need to get a new accountant after this.” Not, of course, that he was alone in the entertainment world to do such a thing. Having ridden the wave – and faced his critics head-on – he appears to have survived any lasting damage. Now he’s just back to having to occasionally defend his jokes which can, at times, be close to the bone. He explains: “You don’t say things by accident as a comedian — you’ve got to stand by what you say. “The only people who want to be offended are journalists looking for a story. a

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“It is slightly annoying when they take a joke out of context. They print them as if they represent serious opinion. “It’s a very odd situation, in that the papers that criticise stand-up material on a regular basis are also the papers fighting for freedom of speech and an end to the nanny state.” Not that his success would have been guessed at from his modest beginnings. Born in September 1972, in Hounslow to Irish parents Patrick and Nora and he continues to hold joint British and Irish citizenship. His father was an accountant and Jimmy was the middle of three brothers. He would grow up in Slough, where he would attend sixth form alongside future England rugby international Matt Dawson. He would then go on to the University of Cambridge where he read political science.

But rather than the hard-living claims of others, he has openly admitted that he didn’t lose his virginity until he was 26. He explained: “It was down to a little choice, a little Catholic guilt. “I think people should accept this isn’t as weird as people sometimes think. “If you watched some TV shows you’d think everyone’s having threesomes when they’re 15. “I suspect something like The Inbetweeners is much closer to the truth — growing up tends to be weird and awkward.” As he ventured into the world of comedy he took his first step with writing and then radio presenting, before branching out in 2002 with his first stand-up tour. He remembers those early days: “When I was a new act, I remember driving to Edinburgh and sleeping in the car or sleeping on the floor of someone’s rented flat. When I performed at the festival, now I stay somewhere nice. “But when I perform it still feels like those first years. “I may get a bit of leeway of two minutes when I go on stage, with people giving me a chance because I’m on television, but after that it’s ‘tell us a joke, man’. I’m still nervous. “In fact I still get nervous whatever I’m doing. Some days it’s terrifying. Especially when you’re doing live TV shows or trying out new material. a

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For the tours I’ve got to put together 300 one-liners that will work every night, for every audience around the country.” He has been with his girlfriend Karoline Copping, a commissioning editor for Channel 5, since 2001. He adds: “We’re in a very committed relationship. “We met at an audition. I went away from the meeting and called my manager and said, ‘I can’t work for that company because that girl is too attractive and I couldn’t concentrate on saying something funny’. “She went away and wrote a note saying, ‘He’s got one joke, he’s very misogynistic and he’s rubbish’. “Then I saw her at a gig and I asked her out. People ask why we’re not married, but it’s just not something that I’d like to talk about. Karoline is a wonderful girl and it upsets her, I’m not prepared to do it.” Jimmy Carr’s career has had its ups and downs – but despite many concerns to the contrary, he appears to have ridden the tidal wave of backlash over the tax issue. And while he remains funny and so busy, it seems quite likely that in a few years he will once again be best known for making us all laugh, a lot. mmm

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FOOD

Recipe from www.theitaliandishblog.com

Eggplant Rollatini

Method: Heat a little olive oil in a heavy saucepan. Add the garlic and saute gently for one minute. Add the tomato paste and cook for one minute. Add the rice and cook for about a minute more. Start adding the warm broth and stir the risotto. Every time the rice absorbs the liquid, add a couple more ladles. Keep stirring for about 25 to 30 minutes. Take the risotto off the heat and add the cheese. Transfer to a bowl and let cool before assembling rollatini. Slice the very ends off the eggplant. Slice the

eggplant into 1/4 inch slices. You should have 5 slices for a large eggplant. Salt the slices heavily and place in a colander for about one hour. Rinse the salt off the eggplant and press with paper towels to dry. Heat a grill or grill pan on the stove. Make sure it's hot before beginning. Brush the eggplant slices on both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill

on both sides until you have nice grill marks and the eggplant is pliable. Place a little marinara sauce in the bottom of a small baking dish. Place some risotto all along the eggplant slices and roll up and place seam side

Ingredients: For the Risotto: 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 cup arborio or carnaroli rice 4 cups light beef broth (or vegetable broth), heated 1/3 cup grated parmesan For the eggplant: 1 large eggplant olive oil marinara sauce

down in baking dish. Top with marinara sauce. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes covered. Remove cover and bake an additional 10 minutes. Serve with grated parmesan cheese.

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Pad Thai

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Food (2014) 2_Layout 1 22/08/2014 15:57 Page 2

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FOOD Nicoise with seared tuna Ingredients Dressing • 2 tbsp French mustard • 60ml/2 fl oz white wine vinegar • 300ml/10 fl oz olive oil • The juice of 2 lemons • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Nicoise • 200g/7oz cooked green beans • 20 fillets of fresh anchovies • 200g/7oz cooked new potatoes • 20 cherry tomatoes, halved

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200g fresh tuna steak 2 tbsp olive oil 50g/1.7oz cracked black pepper 2 hard-boiled eggs, halved

Method For the dressing, whisk together the mustard, vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and freshly ground black pepper. For the salad, mix the beans, anchovies, potatoes and tomatoes and toss them in the dressing. Brush the tuna steaks with the olive oil and season with cracked black pepper. Heat a frying pan then sear the tuna steaks for about 20 seconds on each side; slice.

To serve, put the tuna steaks on top of the salad and top with the halved egg.

We cater for party bookings with seating for up to 100 people. We have up to 80 free car parking spaces available at the rear of the restaurant.

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The artist formerly known as

Vic ReeVes Changing face of one of entertainment’s most influential characters

hen Jim Moir first appeared on our TV screens in 1990, he was one of the most surreal talents to have emerged for a generation. Under his stage name of Vic Reeves, he had taken his London stage show Vic Reeves’ Big Night Out on to the screens of Channel 4 and almost immediately gained a cult following. Teaming up with solicitor turned comedy side-kick and writing partner Bob Mortimer, they emerged and plugged into a pre-Britpop environment to

become a huge hit with a youth seeking a new breed of entertainment heroes. Few, however, would imagine that nearly 25 years later, Jim’s career would be quite as expansive and diverse as it has become. He may be best known for his surreal brand of comedy, but he’s also become an accomplished actor, artist, presenter and personality. And that’s not to mention a brief foray into pop music which saw him top the charts alongside indie stars The Wonderstuff with a cover version of Dizzy. a

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Born in Yorkshire, and raised in County Durham, after he found fame he moved to Kent in the mid 1990s, living in a rural home in Aldington, near Ashford. A home he would inhabit before it was sold to fellow star, Paul O’Grady. But he’s retained his links with the county. He now lives in Charing, between Ashford and Maidstone, with his wife, the model Nancy Sorrell and their twin daughters. What’s more, for many years he and Bob Mortimer had offices in Ashford town centre, where, above the bingo hall, they penned scripts for future shows. More recently they shared office space in Maidstone. They even filmed some sketches for their BBC show The Smell of Reeves and Mortimer, in and around the county. Increasingly today, the Vic Reeves name has been dropped in favour of his regular name, perhaps as a sign of his maturity as a performer. Now 55, and the father of four children – he has two from his first marriage to Sarah Vincent, the disintegration of that marriage was played out in the public eye created by his celebrity.

In a soap opera-style twist, Sarah first had a fling with a builder who had been working on their Kent home, before returning only to leave him again, this time for another woman. The couple would eventually divorce in 1999. His eldest daughter from that relationship is now 20. He is now, however, very much the picture of happiness with Nancy and the two have become an established show business couple – even appearing on ITV’s I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here together. She certainly added to the column inches Jim was gathering when they first started dating. A former lap-dancer turned underwear model, she had previously dated comedian Steve Coogan. The pair met not long after Jim’s relationship with the actress Emilia Fox ended, following the decision to break off their engagement. The pair had met during the filming of a remake of TV classic Randall & Hopkirk (Deceased) and were a famous couple made in tabloid heaven – him the influential comic genius, she the stunning and talented actress and latest in a long line of famous Fox thespians

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– her father is Edward Fox. “I used to think I’d never get married or have kids,” he explains. “Peer pressure suggested I might be a lone wolf forever. “I’ve always let life dictate its own terms. Marriage just happened. It was the traditional thing to do – some people like the taste of wedding cake and a party. “Nancy and I have said that when the girls are 18, we’ll chuck them out, go and live in Brighton, and have a misspent youth.” Born in January 1959, he admits to a happy childhood and a loving family home. He explains: “I loved my parents. There were never any rows. It was a sort of artistic, bohemian upbringing. “My father was a printer at the Northern Echo and my mum was a housewife who did a lot of art courses. At weekends, they’d make vases and bowls, and then sell them at craft fairs. “My dad worked at night so he could spend more time in the day with us. He made that effort. And I’m the same. I don’t like working away. “I was brought up in the country, so there were a lot of childish rural pursuits: making dens and rafts. I’d go outside until the sun went down, then listen to music or

make model planes. Television was restricted by my parents. “They encouraged reading more than anything. There were a lot of castles, art galleries, museums and mountains to climb.” After leaving school – a comprehensive in Darlington – he took up an apprenticeship in mechanical engineering. His interest in entertaining was already taking shape however, forming part of a group of friends in bands and comedy troupes. It was in London though that he established himself first, attending an art college then dabbling in both music and the alternative comedy scene, before he finally formulated his alter ego, Vic Reeves and the Vic Reeves’ Big Night Out format. Originally a regular night at a venue in New Cross, south London, it was there he met Bob Mortimer and the duo started developing the format. In 1990, Big Night Out crossed over and hit the TV screens of Channel 4 – it quickly became a huge hit. Firmly established, the duo switched to the BBC for The Smell of Reeves and Mortimer and the long-running Shooting Stars panel game. Randall & Hopkirk (Deceased) saw the duo move from straight comedy into comedy drama - a furrow Jim would seek to plough over the coming years. Other diverse projects include art programmes, a documentary on Jack the Ripper and presenter of science programme Brainiac. More recently he starred in BBC comedy Hebburn and remains active, writing and performing. It is rare in a career where a performer can spread himself over such a diverse range of sectors – but Jim Moir, or Vic Reeves if you prefer, has achieved just that. And that’s the sign of a genuine talent. mmm

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TUNISIA Tunisia offers 700 miles of sandy beaches, atmospheric souks, stunning Roman ruins and an unbelievably rich history, not to mention Tunisia’s mystical Saharan South

he leading tourist resorts of Tunisia are, Hammamet, Yasmine Hammamet, Port El Kantaoui, Sousse, Skanes, Monastir and Mahdia followed by Djerba and Kerkennah Islands. Hammamet Hammamet is Tunisia’s best known and most developed resort. Renowned for its vast beaches of ﬁne sand and beautiful sparkling turquoise seas. It’s a well-established holiday resort with plenty of ways to get a true taste of Tunisia. Yasmine Hammamet Yasmine Hammamet is Tunisia’s newest resort and it is a resort designed for style. Situated just south of Hammamet, it has been created around a 740-berth marina and is mostly made up of four and ﬁve star luxury hotels and a high-class residential complex. It has a stylish, elegant and Mediterranean atmosphere with plenty of up market boutiques, restaurants and entertainment facilities. There is a sophisticated medina and the marina is full of classy colour and interest. For those travelling with children, Carthage Land, a theme park with thrilling rides, and Blue Ice, the only ice rink in Tunisia, are a must. The resort also boasts many Spa centres, easy access to golf courses and many miles of golden sandy beaches.

Sousse and Port El Kantaoui Sousse is one of Tunisia’s oldest resorts and the adjoining Port El Kantaoui one of the newest so clients who book into either get the best of both. Sousse’s harbour was first built over 2500 years ago and purpose-built Port El Kantaoui’s smart marina built in 1979. Both are the focus of activities at each resort - the marina for its swanky yachts, waterfront restaurants, ice-cream parlours and chic boutiques; the historic harbour at Sousse as the nucleus around which visitors find a historic 9th century Ribat fortress, busy souks, medina, a mosaics museum, cafes and bars. The white sandy beaches of both resorts are relaxed well-equipped for watersports and the tourism infrastructure in both is good for lively evenings with varied entertainment. Monastir and Skanes Monastir is a small modern city sat along the edge of a bright turquoise sea. Monastir is built on a peninsula and overlooked by its large medieval fort, the Ribat - one of Tunisia’s most impressive monuments. It’s leading beach areas are at Skanes where there are vast fine sand beaches with good quality, well-equipped hotels. Here visitors find plenty of water sport opportunities from sailing and

windsurfing to parascending and jet skiing and there are plenty of childrens’ clubs to keep the younger ones. Monastir has a charming fishing port and fabulous marina where yachts moor from around the world. Former president, Habib Bourguiba was born here and his legacy is celebrated all around the city, in particular his mausoleum. Mahdia Mahdia’s fishing port is one of the largest in Tunisia and the local speciality sardine is caught by lamplight which makes an impressive seascape at night. Built at rock level on a narrow peninsula, the resort was traditionally a silk weaving town with an illustrious past as the capital of the Fatimid dynasty.

Echoes of its glory days remain - both in its faded style and historic fortiﬁcations and in its wealth of culture and tradition, but the tourism infrastructure is good. This is a new resort on the British market and is much quieter than the other main resorts. It is famous for its seafront cemetery. Djerba Island Djerba offers something quite distinct: palm trees and a culture and way of life of it’s own. Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea and it’s idyllic beaches Djerba has all the attractions of a classic holiday destination - watersports, spas, golf, historic sites and cultural interest - and is also easily connected to the mainland for those who want to explore further. 

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Who goes there? Families Tunisia’s holiday infrastructure and it’s year round climate mean it has plenty to offer families. There is not a great deal of self-catering accommodation available but family-friendly hotels abound and are very good value. Hotels with children’s pools, playgrounds are plentiful and buffet style dining is common which allows kids to see and select food that looks familiar to them with ease. Culture Vultures Tunisia is flooded with cultural interest. It has a rich and varied heritage and plenty of cultural sites for sight-seeing fans to explore. Tourism officials are keen to raise the profile of their cultural attractions and as a result monuments, archaeological sites and museums are all well preserved and well maintained. Although it is seen as a modern tourist destination, some of Tunisia’s most stunning attractions date back thousands of years. With 3000 years of history, Tunisia boasts everything from ancient medinas and impressive archaeological ruins to holy shrines and the world’s largest collection of Roman mosaics. Clients who like to spend some of their time visiting cultural attractions will be well catered for in Tunisia. Many of Tunisia’s leading historic sites and visitor attractions are World Heritage Sites.

Image: www.ﬂickr.com/photos/archer10

Active and adventurous With 700 miles of coastline, desert, mountains and national parks, Tunisia has plenty to attract the adventurous. Whether people want to walk or trek, cycle or dive Tunisia is an exciting option for those looking for a journey of discovery. Golf Tunisia is rapidly gaining a reputation as a leading golf destination thanks to it’s year-round temperate climate, a choice of ten good quality and championship golf courses and reasonably priced green fees. Golﬁng options can be easily added to family holidays, incentive or conference packages to suit all abilities. Spa Spa facilities are now something of a holiday essential for many travellers and Tunisia has made sure it stays ahead of this trend with nearly 50 centres in place across the country. A wide range of treatments are available and there is plenty of quiet relaxation and luxury pampering. Shopping Haggling is all part of the shopping experience in Tunisia and visitors soon get into the swing of bargaining with local shopkeepers in a good humoured fashion. If you would like more information and would like to talk to the travel specialists, please call Baldwins Travel or visit www.baldwinstravel.co.uk

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VISIT Discover the Rock’s Beauty Gibraltar’s unique position at the crossroads of Europe and Africa make it an ideal location

ibraltar is a popular short break destination that has so much to offer visitors young and old. It is strategically situated on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula and is almost entirely surrounded by water other than the narrow isthmus which links it to mainland Spain. Gibraltar is less than seven square kilometres on the outside, but inside lies a myriad of caves and tunnels that stretch for almost fifty kilometres. Herein lie some of Gibraltar’s biggest mysteries and secrets. At 426 metres high, the iconic Rock of Gibraltar is honeycombed with over 55km of tunnelling, created by man at different chapters in its story. Visitors love to discover the Rock’s beauty and natural heritage, its architecture and wildlife. Historical trails will help people to wile away the days and shopping in Main Street, perhaps one of the most famous streets in Europe, tempts people with some of the best bargains around, thanks to the Rock’s Pound Sterling currency and VAT free status. Gibraltar welcomes millions of tourists every year and whether they are arriving to sample the fine cuisine, its natural beauty or its sporting pursuits many of them will head to Main Street, the centre of Gibraltar’s commercial district and the scene of some of the best value shopping on the Mediterranean. Along with the more traditional shops, visitors to Main Street will recognize international high street brands and chains. These sit alongside handicraft and souvenir shops. Gibraltar’s unique position, at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, make it an ideal location to explore neighbouring terrain. Just a 90–minute ferry ride takes you to Morocco with its exotic souks, and the coastline of Spain offers access to some of the world’s finest golf courses.

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GIBRALTER

Gibraltar is a vibrant city with a range of leisure pursuits to suit all tastes and budgets. The busy bustling café society of Casemates Square transforms into lively nightlife with live entertainment and music from young resident bands. The town centre is best enjoyed on foot. Its typical Georgian and Victorian architecture is interspersed with Portuguese, Genoese and Moorish influences, a reminder of Gibraltar’s colourful and chequered past, giving it some of the most interesting architecture in the Mediterranean area. Gibraltar offers visitors views of unparalleled beauty both on land and at sea. Wildlife flourishes on the Rock’s porous limestone and its flora and fauna are world renowned and of conservational importance.

Gibraltar’s Upper Rock brings together walkers from all over the world, with the most famous of the myriad of the paths being the Mediterranean Steps. Located on the eastern face of the Rock, it starts at an altitude of 180 metres and ﬁnishes at 426 metres at O’Hara’s Battery, the highest point on the Rock. Beneath its waters, Gibraltar’s historical legacy continues with a spectacular underwater world of more than 30 wrecks and reefs. Dive opportunities include the remains of ships from Napoleonic times and WWII. Gibraltar’s temperate climate makes it an attractive all year round choice, which is enhanced by local events and customs that offer a ﬂavour of the Gibraltarian warmth that is reassuringly familiar. 

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Sarah Vince Marketing Executive Baldwins Travel Group

To most, Gibraltar is a place that’s heard about in the news because Spain want it back, or maybe a port of call on their cruise itinerary, but to a select few, this little piece of Britain in the Sun is a second place we call home. There is a certain magic about Gibraltar that only reveals itself to those who have lived there, it captures your heart, imagination and stays with you for many years. I spent nearly three years living there in the 1980’s as a child at primary school, and because my Naval Officer father was posted there. I attended a forces school so virtually everyone was in the same boat (so to speak) and we all lived in married quarters at various points around the rock. We were treated to experiences such as bird watching - this is a key migratory point for birds flying in from North Africa, despite having to run a gauntlet of attacking seagulls - and we were taken on tours of the tunnels not open to the public to see the accommodation and hospitals hidden within the limestone. It was the 80’s but we had freedom, and sunshine, and it felt like you knew everyone. The Barbary apes were our neighbours,

we had no TV until 6pm and then only for an hour, we listened to BFBS radio and took boat trips to see dolphins. Sunday school would take us to the beach and we were enrolled as Brownies in the rockpools of the Alameda Gardens. It really was an idyllic existence. So it is without hesitation that I would recommend it as a perfect short break destination. There can not be many places within such easy reach of the UK that offers beaches, duty free shopping, culture, fresh seafood, marine adventures and wildlife in such a small area. Not to mention the amazing views across Spain and towards Africa from the top of the rock. This destination would suit fussy Brits who desire sunshine but are scared of foreign climes, it would suit couples looking for a unique but unfussy wedding destination and it would suit solo travellers wanting an easily navigable city break. It also really suits those of us who love to reminisce our childhood memories of a time we lived on ‘The Rock’. If you would like more information and would like to talk to the travel specialists, please call Baldwins Travel or visit www. baldwinstravel.co.uk

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EVOLUTION of a family home How Charles Darwin’s house remains a tribute to his scientiﬁc legacy

Darwin photo by Leonard from Woodall 1884

ome ten years after his famous voyage on the HMS Beagle which would act as a cornerstone of many of his most inspiring and influential works, Charles Darwin was having some issues at home. He and wife Emma were now parents of two children – William, two, and new born Anne – and their London home was becoming increasingly cramped for their expanding family. Keen to live among the countryside rather than the busy, hectic world of the city, they began the hunt for a new home. Their only requirement was that it remained close to London. After all, Darwin was one of the foremost scientists of his generation and a man constantly in demand. So over the coming months they started visiting the Home Counties in a bid to find a suitable location. Darwin’s father, Robert, had advised they try and stay in an area before committing to a purchase. They looked closely at Windsor in Berkshire and came close to agreeing a deal in the village of Chobham, in Surrey. But it was the village of Downe, near Bromley, which caught their attention. There they found a three-storey home – Down House At first, by all accounts, they took a little convincing, but soon they fell in love with its location and nearby countryside. With a price tag of £2,200 – the equivalent of around £175,500 in today’s money – the young family had a new home. By September 14, 1842 his wife, pregnant again, moved in, with Darwin himself following three days later. On September 23 their third child, Mary, was born. Her life would be short, however, dying the following month. 

Charles Wife Emma Darwin

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It would be the first of two of their eventual 10 children who would die young. Anne would live only long enough to see her 10th birthday – devastating both parents. For Darwin, the concern was that by marrying his cousin, the family ties may have weakened the children. But despite the tragedy of young Mary, the family quickly grew accustomed to their new surroundings. As their wealth increased, so the house grew in size, with extensions built to eventually leave it an imposing home. Of particular appeal was the study, and it was there Darwin would write his defining book – On The Origin of Species. The result of his years of study, it put forward the theory of evolution – a science-backed theory which proposed life forms evolved over generations to enhance their survival. Survival of the fittest. The idea certainly wasn’t new – way back to Greek times the concept of evolution had created a school of thought. Darwin, however, along with Alfred Wallace, put forward a more compelling argument with extensive research and experiments to back it up. Much of the evidence had been Charles Darwin by Julia Margaret Cameron

Charles Dawin’s home Down House, Kent

gathered during his extensive research on the Beagle expedition some 20 years before. It would secure his place as one of the foremost thinkers of all time. At home, his growing family was matched only by the growth of his family home, which had now acquired additional land which Darwin used to take daily walks for the benefits of both his health and mind. He had a large greenhouse built, where he would conduct experiments. It would be his home until his death on April 19, 1882. He was 73. Earlier in the year he had been diagnosed with disease of the heart. His death was put down to heart failure. It is often reported that his final words were to his wife. He said: “I am not the least afraid of death. “Remember what a good wife you have been to me – tell all my children to remember how good they have been to me.” He had been expected to be buried in the nearby church in Downe, St Mary’s, but given the impact of his thinking colleagues, politicians and the public insisting he be laid to rest somewhere more prominent. And so, close to the likes of Isaac Newton and John Herschel, he was buried at Westminster Abbey. His wife, Emma, would survive him by 16 years, dying in 1896. A year after her passing, their son George rented the house out. By 1907 it had become a girls’ school before, in 1927, it was purchased and funded to become a permanent tribute to Darwin himself. In 1996 English Heritage acquired the property, courtesy of a grant from scientific firm the Welcome Trust. Restored, it was re-opened to the public in April 1998. Several, failed, bids have tried to confirm it as a World Heritage Site. a

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Come and visit our showroom at Third Avenue, Chatham. Open Monday to Friday - 8:30am to 5pm and Saturday - 9:15am to 5pm

Relax in the knowledge you are dealing with an experianced and professional company. Having been in the industry for over 42 years and with staff members who have worked for the company for 18 years plus. We are sure we can assist you with every aspect of your bathroom and fire place requirements.

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But despite their lack of success, Down House remains an essential pilgrimage to the memory and work of Charles Dawin. While Bromley was subsequently consumed by London’s sprawl, to become a borough of the city, it remains, in spirit at least, one of Kent’s most famous locations. And it certainly delivers plenty of value. Explains a spokesman: “For anyone with an interest in science and evolution this is a fascinating family day out in Kent. “You can see the study as it was when he wrote On the Origin of Species and stroll through the gardens that inspired him. “Equally fascinating are the glimpses into the lives of the Darwin family who lived there for 40 years.” There’s even a replica of his cabin on the HMS Beagle to get a sense of what he experienced for his most memorable research. It remains a last tribute to a remarkable individual – and the perfect place to visit in the hunt for a little inspiration. mmm

“Remember what a good wife you have been to me – tell all my children to remember how good they have been to me”

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TOP

lighting ideas for your home

Lighting is one of the key elements that helps make your house a home. The correct lighting enables you to perform tasks easily, makes you feel safer, adds warmth, and allows you to enjoy your home at its full potential. Each room, however, has speciﬁc and unique general and accent lighting needs. mmm offers some creative tips and ideas on getting the best from your lighting for each room in your home

Entrance: Use lighting and decoration for a first impression The entrance to your home conveys the first impression of a home’s interior and your own personality. Centre a traditional chandelier, contemporary pendant, or transitional close-to-ceiling fixture in your hallway to provide basic illumination and create a welcoming-warming atmosphere

Living Room: Use lighting to bring out the best in your living spaces Enhance your living room’s ambiance, dramatise wall textures, accent artwork, living room, family room, playrooms, or bedrooms. A variety of different types of lighting ﬁxtures will work for both your general lighting and accent lighting needs.

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Dining Room: Create a focal point with lighting Your dining table is in place, chairs are pushed in, and the table is set. The only thing remaining to complete the picture is the centre piece, your light fixture. This lighting fixture is the focal point of your room, so it needs to express your own personal style, while still satisfying functionality. Whether your dining and entertaining style is casual and laid back, or is generally more formal, choose a fixture that reflects you.

Kitchen: Realise that the kitchen is often the busiest part of the house Not only are your meals prepared here, but your family and guests gather here as well. Sufﬁcient and adequate lighting is a must for performing all your culinary needs, helping your kids with their homework and reading the paper.

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Bathroom: Don’t forget about the bathroom Bathroom lighting is probably the last place people want to invest time and money. Mirrors go unlit, and often one ceiling ﬁxture is used to light up the sink, mirror and shower. However, as whirlpool tubs become larger and steam showers are added, more and more time is spent relaxing in the bathroom, so consider your lighting carefully in the bathroom, from overhead spot lights and backlit mirrors, to ﬂoor and under bath lighting.

Outside: Use functional and fun lighting outside Whether your goal is to enhance the beauty of your home, or provide additional security, you have numerous lighting options to light up your home’s exterior. Decorative fixtures can be used along pathways, on walls, posts and entrance foyers. The design of these fixtures should compliment the look and feel of your house and landscape, while providing sufficient lighting for safety, security and functionality. Landscaping can also be highlighted in a very contemporary manner, adding real class to the outside of any home. mmm

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Your Perfect Autumn home

Home collection, House of Fraser

Shabby Chic Cushion, £45, House of Fraser

Avairy Print Cushion, £45, House of Fraser

Home collection, House of Fraser

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Home collection, Marks and Spencer

Suzy Table and Chair House of Fraser

Upholstered Dining Chair, John Lewis New Floor Lamp, ÂŁ149 Debenhams

Chesterfield Buttoned ÂŁ480, Debenhams

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Home collection, BHS

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Open: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm, Sat 9am-1pm

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Blackberry Farm Wonderful four bedroom detached farmhouse surroundInG countrYsIde VIeWs Property - Blackberry Farm Address - Bobbing, Kent Bedrooms - Four Bathrooms - Two Price - £800,000 Park House Blackberry Farm has just over 8.5 acres of land and lies in open countryside between Sittingbourne and Rainham and the estuary of the river Medway. Originally a small farmhouse, the property has been extended and modernised over recent years and has been maintained to a high standard by the current vendors (with the exterior recently acquiring a protective coating). This property would make the ideal family home or would similarly suit an investor, due to amount of land and potential outbuilding conversions. Blackberry Farm really does have heaps of development potential and an internal viewing is highly recommended. The property is conveniently positioned and gives access to the town centres of Rainham and Sittingbourne both with mainline railway stations along with great links to the M2/M20 motorways. Blackberry Farm is situated on a country lane with far reaching views, and close by is the village of Lower Halstow and Newington with the latter also having a railway station and selection of shops and public houses. The property also has the benefit of bridleways and cycle routes. There are also golf courses

close by together with schools and Murston Nature reserve can be found just north of Sittingbourne. Blackberry Farm is a pleasant farmhouse set in approximately 8.5 acres of land with no near neighbours. The farmhouse is well proportioned and benefits from a spacious sitting room with log burner, 25ft farmhouse kitchen/diner with aga and views over the surrounding fields and countryside, also to the ground floor is an entrance area, downstairs cloakroom, lounge with open fireplace and formal dining room. To the first floor the landing leads to the four good size bedrooms and two bathrooms with far reaching views of open countryside and paddocks. The main garden is extensively laid to lawn and has a pleasant patio area with far reaching views of the paddocks and outbuildings. To the North of the house is a single garage and three loose boxes of brick construction and in total measures approximately 53’ x 15’, beyond is a block of three disused agricultural buildings constructed in timber and an open span pole barn measuring approximately 160’ x 23’. To the North of the property there is an unfenced paddock and to the East there are two fenced fields. The property and land offers some great potential and truly warrants your earliest viewing. For more information, please call Grey Fox Prestige on 01634 757027.

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Motors MERCEDES-BENZC4 S-CLASS Mercedes-Benz updates its range of special protection models with the new S 600 Guard ith its Guard models, Mercedes-Benz has the world’s widest range of special protection vehicles. The Mercedes-Benz Guard range currently has models from the S, E, M and G-Class. The latest member of the Guard family is the Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard. No weak spots – integrated special protection The armouring of the S 600 Guard follows the principle of integrated protection based on many years of Mercedes-Benz experience in building special protection vehicles. The major advantages are: • Outstanding strength and stability thanks to specific reinforcement of the base structure which is integrated into the bodyshell production stage. • The high level of comfort is maintained by sophisticated integration and intelligent overlapping of all protective elements. Already at the bodyshell stage, protective components of special steel are integrated into the cavities between the body structure and the outer skin. Special aramide and PE components provide additional splinter protection. Intelligent overlapping systems at particularly critical points ensure comprehensive ballistic protection.

Discretion as a matter of course Despite the extensive protective measures, the S 600 Guard is externally hardly distinguishable from the standard model. Its exterior has the same emphatic lines that already suggest power and dynamism when at standstill, the same striking design of the LED High Performance head lamps and the same LED rear light clusters. As the S 600 Guard is hardly recognisable as an armoured saloon, it meets a further important requirement for special protection vehicles: maximum discretion thanks to unobtrusiveness. Protection without compromises The S 600 Guard has a generously spacious interior. Like the flagship S-Class model, the S 600 Guard excels with exemplary headroom and elbow room in the rear, and is also in a class by itself in this segment in terms of comfort dimensions such as entry height and door apertures. In addition, for the first time and as the only car in this segment, the new S 600 Guard is available both as a four seater and as a fully-fledged five seater, and offers unrestricted day-to-day suitability by virtue of a 350-litre boot capacity and high payload. a

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Twelve-cylinder powerpack The S 600 Guard delivers superior performance thanks to its V12 petrol engine, which now generates 530 hp and therefore has even more pulling power than the engine of the preceding model. Thanks to 830 Nm of torque and the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, which is available with the V12 engine for the first time, the S-Guard combines lower fuel consumption with impressive acceleration for a rapid escape from the danger zone when under threat. For weight reasons the top speed is electronically limited to 130 mph. Guard-specific equipment for more comfort and safety In addition Mercedes-Benz offers further optional extras which were specifically developed for the S-Guard. These include: • Opaque roller blinds all-round in the rear • Heated windscreen and side windows

• Easily operated panic alarm system • Fire extinguisher system with automatic activation • Emergency fresh air system protecting occupants from the ingress of smoke or irritant gases • Hydraulic power for the heavy side windows • Gimbal LED reading lamps in the rear • Special cooling compartment in the rear As in the case of standard production models, the full manufacturer’s warranty also applies to the S 600 Guard and the other models in the Guard family. All the Mercedes-Benz service outlets worldwide are also able to service, maintain or carry out any necessary repairs for the Guard models.

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Infiniti reveal the pricing for the new Q50 two-litre turbocharged petrol engine

Infiniti Motor Company Ltd. has announced the pricing for its new Q50 two-litre petrol engine, starting from £31,755. On sale in Europe from autumn 2014, the lightweight 1991cc turbocharged petrol four-cylinder engine develops (350Nm) of torque and 211PS of power, which is transmitted through a seven-speed, automatic transmission to the rear wheels. Flexible and efficient, driving is assisted by a wide torque band curve that begins at just 1250rpm. Manufactured with the latest fuel efficient certified technology and tuned by Infiniti engineers for an engaging throttle response, the two-litre direct injection petrol engine joins the new 2.2-litre direct injection turbo-diesel engine, and the celebrated high-performance V6-configuration hybrid powertrains. Over the next five years, Infiniti will increase its model range by 60 per cent and more than double the number of its powertrains. The Infiniti brand was launched in 1989 and its range of premium automobiles is currently built in manufacturing facilities in Japan and the United States. Production in China and Europe will start soon along with the expansion of the brand’s portfolio. As the Title Partner and Vehicle Performance Partner of Infiniti Red Bull Racing, Infiniti has a far-reaching technical collaboration with the Formula One team, and Sebastian Vettel, its four-time World Champion driver, serves as Infiniti’s Director of Performance. First revealed in Europe at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show in March, and already launched in China, the Q50 petrol will make its sales debut in Europe in autumn before rolling out to the rest of Infiniti’s global markets by the end of the year. More information about Infiniti and its industry leading technologies can be found at www.infiniti.com..

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

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LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

Business LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS FROM RAGTIME RHYTHMS TO HURDY GURDY The University of Kent in Canterbury plays host to a truly eclectic mix of artists in a new season of lunchtime concerts this autumn, sponsored once more by Furley Page Solicitors. Audiences will be foot-tapping to the irresistible rhythms of ragtime and early piano jazz on Wednesday October 8th, when Helen Crayford presents her virtuoso one-woman show, Rags to Riches. The show has already taken Helen to the Edinburgh Festival, Italy and New York. The talented musician is in hot demand by the BBC, as keyboard player in the Symphony Orchestra, Concert Orchestra and the BBC Singers, and her recordings have included English music for flute, oboe and piano. On Wednesday November 5th, three members of the university’s new ensemble-in-residence – Alexandra Reid on violin, Alex Caldon on trumpet, and Matthew King on

piano – will be offering a taste of things to come. The programme includes music by Bach, Copland and Eric Ewazen. There’s something a bit different to close the season with The Society of Strange and Ancient Instruments on Wednesday December 3rd. The Society was founded in 2010 to explore a repertoire that ranges from folk songs and earthy dances to high art music from the 18th century and before, as well as newly composed pieces. All of the Society’s members are leaders in the fields of historical performance and traditional music, with years of performing and recording experience. For this performance, Clare Salaman and Benedicte Maurseth explore the common ground between renaissance, baroque and traditional Norwegian music with some rousing Hardanger fiddles, viol d’amore, hurdy gurdy, nykelharpa and medieval Vielle.

LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

KEnT POlIcE TO HElP THE RESIDEnTS AT cARE HOME

Amherst Court Care Home has been awarded £500 from the Chief Constable’s Property Fund for its “Wishing Well Appeal Fund”. The Wishing Well grants resident’s wishes, maybe to visit places from their youth, go to the theatre for example, or to revisit an old experience. Amherst Court, in Palmerston Road, Chatham, is run by Avante Care and Support, caring for people living with dementia. The home offers Kent Police trainees the opportunity to meet residents as part of their training, to learn how best to communicate with those living with dementia and gain an understanding of how the disease may affect them in their daily lives. The home was nominated for the award by Amanda Withrington, Placement Officer with Kent Police. Amanda Withrington said; “Kent Police’s Property Fund regularly benefits local charities through the proceeds of auctions when stolen or confiscated property can’t be reunited with their rightful owners. On this occasion Kent Police is delighted to support Amherst Court. In addition, the experience and learning that some of our officers and staff receive by going to Amherst Court for their placement is invaluable. The force runs a community and diversity placements programme and Amherst Court has supported the scheme by providing many placements over the years.

PARTnERSHIP AnnOUncEMEnT Local, premium, leather handbag brand Larah England, is delighted to announce that its new collection will be stocked in the West Malling boutique, Number 39, from September. The new label, Larah England, designed by Laura Bransby of West Malling offers a collection of timeless handbags combining a unique mix of luxury, femininity and functionality. Made from sumptuously soft, wash and tumbled leathers, the range captures the essence of casual chic and features exquisite detailing from hand plaited handles to ribbon bow plaques. Quintessentially English and available in Black, Blush and Cassis coloured leathers, each bag boasts a signature tea pot print lining inspired by the tradition of afternoon tea. To celebrate the local partnership, Larah England and Number 39 are excited to be hosting a launch day for customers on Saturday 13th September from 9.30 - 5.00pm where there will be the opportunity to win a Larah England handbag and receive 10% off all products within the shop. They look forward to seeing you there.

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LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

EXTEnDED EUROSTAR SERVIcE TO FRAncE BOOSTS TRADE lInKS

Eurostar is to launch a new direct service to the south of France from Ashford next year, further strengthening the Kent town’s high-speed connections to the Continent. From May 1st, passengers will be able to travel direct from Ashford to Lyon, Avignon and Marseille up to five times a week. The announcement means Ashford will boast direct services to France’s three largest cities – Paris, Marseille and Lyon – as well as Lille. And this latest boost to the town’s already excellent rail links follows a

major new study* unveiled this month which shows that connectivity and ease of access to European markets has helped make Ashford the ‘preferred place for business in Kent’, in a poll of developers, investors, property experts and businesses. Cllr Gerry Clarkson, Leader of Ashford Borough Council, said the expansion of services would provide greater opportunities for leisure and business travellers, boost local tourism and leisure industries, and make Ashford even more attractive as a business location for

companies trading with France. “This is extremely positive news and reinforces the strategic importance of Ashford International Station as a driver for future prosperity within the borough,” he said. The town is also easily accessible from the M20 and, just last month, the Government confirmed it’s decision to fund the long-awaited Junction 10a to provide extra capacity – a project described by Ashford’s MP, Damian Green, as “one of the most significant advances for Ashford in 20 years”. The Port of Dover, the world’s busiest roll-on, roll-off ferry terminal, is 30 minutes away; London Ashford Airport, which embarks on a multimillion-pound runway extension later this year to open up new air routes to Europe, is 20 minutes away. Cllr Clarkson added: “Ashford’s location is one of its most significant assets and the fact that it is incredibly well connected and accessible makes it a vibrant hub for businesses.”

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LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

2014 EUROPEAn BlAcK BOX cUlInARY cHAllEnGE Tudor Park Marriott Hotel & Country Club were thrilled to announce they were the winners of the 2014 European Black Box Culinary Challenge South England Region in a ceremony held at JW Grosvenor House Hotel on London’s Park Lane. The Black Box Culinary Challenge is a team-based event for both front and back of house associates, showcasing high quality skills from the kitchen to the table. Kent’s Tudor Park demonstrated their culinary and creative talents against ten other Marriot Hotels including London Hotels JW Grosvenor House and London Twickenham Marriott to be named overall winners and also winners

of the Best Table category. Hotel General manager Michael Regenhardt said, “We are very proud of our team, they showcased their finest work. I am delighted that they have enjoyed this learning process and won the competition. The Black Box competition is a great opportunity to show the amazing talent we have here at Tudor Park. Being able to hone their skills and compete and win against the best London hotels has been a great boost for the whole team and hotel.” Teams were given a mystery ‘Black Box’ filled with ingredients which included local and seasonal produce.

It also included spices, fruit and vegetables and dairy products. The chefs had to write a three-course menu using the products from the box and create recipes as well as finished dishes for the judges. They had to make sure that they used the ingredients using the correct culinary procedure, as well followed the Marriott “Cook Smart” Philosophy. Each team of chefs had five hours to prepare three courses of 12 plates; two of each course was judged and photographed. The Service associates also had five hours to lay a table with a Theme. They were judged on Innovation, Professional Presentation and Hygiene.

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The

Narrow MargiN Forever commemorated as Battle of Britain Day, September 15th 1940 saw the German Air Force begin a final push in their attempt to clear the RAF from the skies of Great Britain prior to an invasion upon our shores. Robin J Brooks looks back at that momentous day “The odds were great; our margins small; the stakes infinite”. So wrote Winston Churchill after the event. In order for Adolf Hitler to carry out his plan to invade Britain, known as ‘Operation Sealion’, the fighters of the Royal Air Force had to be neutralised. Since the beginning of July 1940, it had been a daily struggle between Fighter Command and the Luftwaffe. Despite the insistence of Reichmarshall Hermann Goering when reporting to Hitler that the RAF had been cleared from the skies above Britain, nothing was further from the truth. Such was the planning of Air Vice-Marshal Hugh Dowding and his commanders that reserves were always found. After the clearance of some early morning mist, the weather for Sunday September 15, 1940 dawned clear and bright. As the morning wore on the sun rose in a blue sky as people prepared to go to church or just to walk in the autumn sunshine. Across the Channel on the German held French airfields, preparations were going on to assemble a great armada of bombers and fighters which it was hoped would bring the RAF to its knees. By early morning the enemy reconnaissance aircraft were airborne seeking any shipping in the Channel as a

The Heritage Hanger: Hurricane in Flight

potential target for the fighters and bombers that would come later. At the underground operations room for No. 11 Group situated at RAF Uxbridge, the night shift were leaving whilst the early morning shift took over. This room was the heart of Fighter Commands strategy in winning this particular battle. On a raised platform overlooking the large SE map table in the centre were the controllers who gave instructions to the airfields in No. 11 Group. These were Biggin Hill, West Malling, Lympne, Gravesend, Manston, Croydon and Kenley. The map or operations table was marked up in squares using the British Modified Grid System to cover Kent, Surrey and Sussex upon which were the names of the airfields and radar sites within the south east. Counters were placed upon the map indicating the height and number of enemy aircraft when a raid was approaching the Kent coast. A team of RAF women were tasked with moving the counters when the instructions from the radar stations and observer corps were received through their headsets. Depending on the position of the counters, the controllers could then scramble the squadrons based at the airfields. It was this system that was to prove infallible. a

72 mmm Vapour trails: a dogfight over Maidstone

By 11am the room was busy with activity as plots from the various radar stations situated around the SE coast indicated that a very large formation of enemy aircraft were assembling over the French coast Fifteen minutes later the controllers contacted RAF Duxford in Cambridgeshire instructing them to get the Duxford wing airborne ready to meet the bombers over the Channel. The scene was repeated minutes later when Biggin Hill, Northolt, Kenley and Hornchurch were told to scramble their Hurricanes and Spitfires. In all 21 squadrons were taking to the air. As the German armada of Dornier 17s and Heinkel IIIs escorted by Messerschmitt 109s left the French coast the Chain Home radar stations at Fairlight near Hastings, Ventnor on the Isle of Wight and Dover and the men of the land based Observer Corps were sending details of the enemy aircraft to Bentley Priory and Uxbridge. Most of the formation were from Luftflotte two of Kampfgeschwader 76 operating from Beauvais and Cormeilles. As they crossed the English coastline at Ramsgate the ME109s were attacked by Spitfires from Biggin Hill followed by the Hurricanes of 253 and 504 Squadron who went for the bomber stream. As the air raid sirens in Kent began to wail shortly after 11.30am, many people rushed to the Anderson shelters built in the back gardens whilst others being curious, just stood and looked up to the sky. Only at the last moment would they venture

into a shelter. The fighters met the enemy aircraft as they crossed Kent and Sussex and within minutes the sky was full of aircraft exhaust trails as the conflict began. By midday the area around the two counties was littered with wrecked aircraft of both air forces. In London Buckingham Palace was the recipient of several bombs which dropped on the immaculate lawns and on the Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s private apartments. Luckily no member of the Royal family were at home. With the enemy raiders being attacked by more than 160 Hurricanes and Spitfires, many of them just dropped their bombs at random causing dreadful damage and loss of life throughout Kent. Sadly between 11.50am and 12.20pm eight RAF fighters were shot down by the enemy. Pilot Officer G L Doutrepont was a member of No. 229 Squadron flying from RAF Wittering when he was attacked by ME109s over Sevenoaks. After a ferocious dogfight his Hurricane crashed into Staplehurst railway station, a plaque on the station reminding us that it was here that a life was lost. There 1990 Postcard - Battle of Britian were many others who were to 50th Anniversary lose their lives during this first raid.As the remainder of the enemy aircraft turned for home having dropped their bombs on London and Kent, the next raid was plotted forming up in France. Three waves of Dorniers and Heinkels totalling 150 aircraft together with fighter escort crossed the Channel at around 2pm. This time most of the bombs were dropped on East London as the enemy met with a force of 13 British squadrons.

Ferocious dogfights were taking place over Kent with around nine RAF fighters being shot down. Against a numerically superior Luftwaffe the British squadrons fought for the survival of the country. What we lacked in numbers of fighters we gained in the quality of our Hurricanes, Spitfires and Boulton Paul Defiants and the skill of our pilots and ground crews. Long into the afternoon the battles raged as a last attempt was made by the Luftwaffe to clear the RAF from the skies and allow a seaborne invasion to go ahead. The Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, chose to pay one of his frequent visits to the operations room on this particular day. Noticing the intense atmosphere and the red lights change as squadrons were scrambled, called to refuel and re-arm and scrambled again time after time, he asked of Air Vice-Marshal Park, the commander of No. 11 Group, ‘what reserves have we?’. The answer came back ‘none Sir’. It is said that with this answer, Churchill looked very grave indeed. As evening approached the county of Kent counted the cost of such a battering. Although London was the prime target for most of the attacks, many bombs had been dropped in haste demolishing property and causing chaos within the county. Yet throughout the raids on this day, just one civilian was reported dead in Kent. On Monday September 16th 1940, the Daily Telegraph headlines told it all. ‘ 175 RAIDERS DOWN – ONE IN

Heinkel III Flying over Kent September 15th 1940

TWO DESTROYED – RAF LOSE 30’. It continued that ‘the mass attack on London and the south east had been smashed’. Though slightly exaggerated, it was a victory for the RAF. Although the Battle of Britain was to continue until late October, Hitler knew that victory in the sky would never be achieved by the Luftwaffe, despite the assurances from his commander-in-chief, Hermann Goering, that it would be. As the autumn and winter nights began to draw in, the proposed invasion of Britain was postponed several times until it was obvious it would never take place. Operation ‘Sealion’ was dead never to be resurrected. The battle was won by young men whom Churchill called ‘the Few’ and Lord Dowding called ‘his chicks’. Together with the ground crews who maintained the aircraft and the women of the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force who worked in the operations rooms, September 15, 1940 was a day to remember hence the reason it is commemorated each year as ‘Battle of Britain Day’.

The Biggin Hill Heritage Hanger Hurricane: Pays tribute to September 15th 1940 The operations room - For a fighter command station

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WALMER CASTLE and Gardens uilt during the reign of King Henry VIII, Walmer Castle was originally designed as part of a chain of coastal artillery defences. It evolved into the ofďŹ cial residence of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports and today in many respects is as much a country house as a defensive fortress. Previous Lord Wardens include the Duke of Wellington, who held the post for 23 years and eventually died at Walmer Castle, William Pitt, Winston Churchill and in recent years Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. ď Ą

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One person in particular who made a major mark on the castle was Lady Hester Stanhope. Lady Hester was the niece of one of the most famous Lord Wardens associated with Walmer Castle, the 18th-century Prime Minister, William Pitt the Younger. After escaping her father’s harsh care in 1803 at the age of twenty-seven and single, she joined Pitt at the castle and acted as his hostess, helping him entertain political and military notables of the day. As a strong and independent woman ahead of her time, she was well known in her own right as a political hostess and later a famous international travel writer. She left an enduring legacy, as working with Pitt; she set about turning the castle from a garrisoned residence into the country home of a Prime Minister. She helped Pitt convert the grounds from its utilitarian functions such as quarry, grazing meadow, vegetable garden and orchard for the garrison, into a ‘glen’ or wilderness garden with a sheltered ‘Oval Lawn’ for promenading. Visitors can enjoy this legacy in both the interiors of the castle as well as the magnificent gardens which also include the broad walk, kitchen garden, and contemporary Queen Mother’s garden. mmm

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MAIDSTONE STUDENT Wins place at London theatre school ylvia Young Theatre School is one of the UK’s most recognised performing arts schools with past alumni including stars from the stage, screen and music industries including: Rita Ora, Billie Piper, Denise Van Outen, Kara Tointon, Matt Willis and Tom Fletcher to name but a few. This specialist performing arts school is the ﬁrst step for many to have an illustrious performing career and now Miles Winstanley age 10 is delighted to be one of just a handful of young performers who has been accepted to join this small school of around 250 students. “Miles could not believe it when he got accepted to the fulltime school,” says mum Sheila. “He has always loved reading and literature and now this has progressed to drama and his ambition is to be an actor when he gets older. Or if not an actor, then of course, a footballer!” His successful audition included performing a song from the musical The Lion King, a modern dance from Rizzle Kicks, a Shakespearean recital from Richard III and a piece from War Horse. To help him prepare for a future in performing arts, Miles has been attending Razzamataz Maidstone since the end of February 2014, which has helped him develop his natural Miles Winstanley from talents in dance, drama Razzamataz Maidstone has been and singing. Hayley accepted to renowned theatre Limpkin, Principal of school Sylvia Young in London Razzamataz Maidstone was quick to recognise his potential and is delighted with his success: “Miles has always been a pleasure to teach and has worked really hard since day one. He has the natural talents needed for the performing arts but it is his positive attitude and determination that will really help him excel in this tough industry.”

Miles beat off hundreds of other hopefuls to win his place at Sylvia Young and credits his experience at Razzamataz to helping him on his way. “From the moment I joined the Inters at Razzamataz, I knew I was going to love it,” says Miles. “I’ve met so many interesting, creative and fun people and I’ve learned so much from the teaching staff and other students. I’m going to be miss everyone here, but I will be back to see how everyone is doing.” Miles will start Sylvia Young in September and like many students is looking forward to all the ordinary things like his new school uniform, making new friends and meeting his teachers. “Miles can’t wait to focus on his acting and he is so excited about going to school where there is a performing arts atmosphere all around,” adds Sheila. Top audition tips from Razzamataz Maidstone student Miles Winstanley: • If you can choose your own audition pieces, choose something you really love. People suggested things for me, but in the end I chose my own song and dance and I felt really comfortable with them during the audition. • Practice your pieces in different ways and styles until you are happy. • Imagine what it might be like before you go in to your audition. Think about how you are going to greet the panel. • Learn how to use technology- I knew exactly where the music was on my iPod and how to use the equipment. Razzamataz Theatre Schools offers classes in Maidstone and Medway every Saturday and on a Tuesday evening in term time. Ages range from just 2 up to 18 and each week students attend singing, dance and drama classes and experience a range of styles from traditional West End musical theatre to pop singing and street dance. To ﬁnd out more information about Razzamataz Medway or Maidstone or to book a free trial session, call 01634 893524, email medway@razzamataz.co.uk/ maidstone@razzamataz.co.uk or visit www.razzamataz.co.uk

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Family guide to whats on & when Festival of Flowers, Leeds Castle, 23rd - 28th September his September, Leeds Castle in Kent hosts a Festival of Flowers themed ‘Autumn Glory’, a floral celebration from the glory of the Kent garden. Leeds Castle Head Florist Louise Roots and multi award winning floral designer Mig Kimpton will lead a team of over 25 designers to transform the Castle rooms through floral works of art on display from Tuesday 23rd to Sunday 28th September. A Floral Art Competition sponsored by South East Flowers will feature three classes open to all whether you are a florist, flower arranger, student florist or simply enjoy working with flowers. Choose between Class A ‘Autumn Door’, a door wreath to be hung on a dark wooden panel staged on front of a barrel in the Cellar entrance; Class B ‘Autumn Celebration’, a table centre exhibit to be staged in the Henry VIII Banqueting Hall; or Class C ‘Autumn Basket’, to be staged on a window sill within the Castle in a basket including any fruit or vegetables. Specialist talks and demonstrations running throughout the event will be hosted by the Castle Florists and Castle Gardeners including tales from the Castle florist of the 1930s during the ownership of the last private owner of Leeds Castle Lady Baillie and the fascinating history of the Castle gardens up to the present day. Learn about the maintenance of the formal gardens from our experienced gardeners and pick up tips to take home. For more information on events at Leeds Castle please visit www.leeds-castle.com/events

Nothingness, Nucleus Arts Chatham Gallery, 27th September - 9th October rtist Christopher Sacre has created a new sculptural ‘lifeform’ that will be first shown at Nucleus Arts Chatham Gallery in September as the focal point of his latest exhibition, Nothingness. The sculpture, whose exact appearance will remain a mystery until the exhibition opens, references society’s response to difference and provides a focus for exploration of the dynamic relationship of the Deaf community to mainstream society. The piece marked a turning point in his work and introduced his ‘babies’ to the world -sculptural forms made by pouring liguid plaster into condoms. Nothingness unveils the next stage of evolution, a sculptural child’ that will take it’s meaning in part from the responses it provokes and how viewers connect emotionally, intellectually and imaginatively with it. Nothingness runs from 27th September to 9th October 2014 at Nucleus Arts Chatham Gallery, 272 High Street, Chatham, Kent ME4 4BP (diagonally opposite Iceland). Admission is free. Please see www.nucleusarts.com for opening times.

Apple and Orchard Weekend, Kent Life, 27th - 28th September weekend celebrating the bounty from the Garden of England! Join in for the ﬁrst time for a whole weekend of the Apple and Orchard events. An event created to celebrate the Apple – and the produce of the Garden of England, Ightham Mote is the place to visit in late September. There will also be a wide range of apple related crafts and gifts for sale from local suppliers, as well as a National Trust stall. The catering team at Ightham Mote will also have various apple related cakes, soups and baked goods in the restaurant. Families can take advantage of the Apple Trail around the garden. For more information, please call 01732 810378.

A War and the Horse, Dover Castle, 20th - 21st September he poignant story of the horse’s role in the First World War will be brought to life in a new event at Dover Castle this September. The Great War marks a turning point in the supremacy of the cavalry on the field of battle and this transformation will be vividly charted in a series of arena displays featuring six horses and their riders. The show opens and it’s early Autumn 1914. Confidence abounds as the cavalry, bold and proud in their dress uniform, perform a skill-at-arms show to display their prowess on horseback and discipline as a fighting force. As casualties rise, the ladies of the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry (FANY) earn their stripes administering first aid on the front line before transporting the wounded to field hospitals. Formed as a mounted unit, these women

were skilled not only in ﬁrst aid, but also cavalry drills and signalling. Later in the day, as the war progresses, the mood of optimism gives way to dogged resilience and the cavalry adopts the sombre khaki colours, now so resonant of this ‘war to end all wars’. War and the Horse will take visitors on an engaging journey back to 1914. A recruiting station and replica bi-plane as well as musical favourites from the time will evoke the spirit of the early days of the war, while a play entitled ‘Letters from the Front’ will represent the bittersweet intensity of love and loss felt by families across the land. A family ticket to War and the Horse costs £2.60 for English Heritage members and £48.10 for non-members. Further information about ticket prices and opening times can be found at www.english-heritage.org.uk/dover

To Kill a Mockingbird, The Marlow Theatre, 16th - 20th September et in the Deep South, Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prizewinning novel sees racial injustice envelop a small-town community. Through courage and compassion, lawyer Atticus Finch seeks the truth, and his feisty daughter, Scout – a young girl on the cusp of adulthood – brings new hope to a neighbourhood in turmoil. This utterly enchanting and enthralling production from London’s award-winning Regent’s Park Theatre captures the warmth and poignancy of this bestloved classic with genuine heart and

emotional depth. A story as moving and magical as you could ever hope to ﬁnd. Adapted for the stage by Christopher Sergel. Based on the novel by Harper Lee. For more information please visit www.marlowetheatre.com

Family guide to WHATS ON & WHEN

London Fashion Weekend, Somerset House, 18th - 21st September his September Somerset House, the home of London Fashion Weekend, will host fashion’s biggest and most exclusive event. As always, the four day fashion extravaganza has a schedule crammed with designer catwalk shows, industry insider talks and of course exclusive designer shopping. For more information please visit www.londonfashionweekend.co.uk

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Hops ‘n’ Harvest Beer Festival, Kent Life, 13th - 14th September ne of the South East’s most colourful and energetic bands will be headlining at this year’s Kent Life Hops ‘n’ Harvest Beer Festival, which takes place on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th September. CoCo and the Butterfields take to the stage at the award-winning attraction, near Maidstone, on the Saturday as part of a packed weekend of music, entertainment and activities celebrating the time-honoured Kentish traditions of the hop festival. As well as a jam-packed set of live and local music, festival-goers can try a selection of around 60 rare and locally-brewed ales and ciders, or enjoy the live music with a relaxing cocktail in the brand new Pimm’s Garden. Have a go at picking hops by hand, see the last working coal-fired oast house in Britain, which will be back in full production for this weekend only, and meet Pearly Kings and Queens and other characters from Kent’s colourful past. The packed weekend also includes a host of activities for all ages, from animal encounters, water zorbing, face painting and junior quad bikes, to tug-of-war and a bouncy castle, as well as Kent Life’s indoor and outdoor adventure play areas*. Hungry hop-pickers can enjoy homemade cakes, sandwiches and hot meals at vintage-styled Dotty’s Tea Room, or a hog roast or burger from one of the visiting food vendors. Tickets for Saturday only (10am till late) cost £12 adults, £11 concessions and £8 children; Sunday tickets (10am to 6pm) are £9.25 adults, £8.25 concessions and £7.25 children. Under-threes go free. Discounts for members and online booking. Book your tickets online at www.kentlife.org. uk and receive one FREE pint of beer or cider for every adult. Alternatively, call 01622 763936 for more information.

The Southern Model Show, Headcorn, 13th - 14th September ollowing on from last year’s success, the Southern Model Show is returning to Headcorn Aerodrome in Kent on the 13th & 14th September 2014 – Bigger, Better, More Fun! A great family Show, with something for everyone; Aeroplanes, Helicopters, Boats, Cars and Tanks. If it is called a model, they will have it at the show. As well as seeing the models in action you will be able to get up close and chat with the owners and there will be many specialist traders who will have all of the latest models and accessories on sale. Beginners will have the chance to take control of a radio controlled model for the first time. The show is being run in association with the Maidstone Model Flying Club and in partnership with RCME magazine. Southern Model Show Director, Colin Hitchins said; “With the huge range of models and traders at the Southern Model Show we aim to inspire newcomers to this wonderful hobby. Taking control of a model aircraft, boat or vehicle for the first time is a great thrill and can lead to a lifetime of pleasure.” In addition to a full day’s flying that starts at 10am each day, a full range of other activities and a showground packed with traders makes this a must go event for anyone with an interest in this fascinating hobby whether a professional or a beginner. Colin added; “Headcorn played a significant role during World War Two and we are going to commemorate this heritage with a number of stunning set-piece displays. A Kent airfield on Battle of Britain weekend – it doesn’t get any better than that.” There will be plenty to eat, drink and buy as well as activities for the less model-minded members of the family and camping is available for the weekend, For further information please go to www.headcornevents.co.uk or call 0845 652 62 63.

Family guide to whats on & when

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