So Sevenoaks August 2015

E

FESTIVAL FUN

Where to go, what to wear

P ROBAB LY TH E B EST LO CAL M AGAZIN E IN THE WO R LD

and how it all kicked off with the stars

Wonderful Weddings FROM VENUES TO DRESSES – MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR BIG DAY

WHY THIS CAR IS WORTH

S E V E N O A K S

SO SEVEN OAKS

so

Sevenoaks Chamber THE SUMMER PARTY

PUB GRUB

The best places to sit back, relax and enjoy Confidential WHO GOT NAUGHTY WHEN THEY HIT A PARKED CAR?

PERIOD HOME

What £2million will buy you in Cowden

£250,000

THE NEW BENTLEY MULSANNE SPEED

To feed you is to love you CHEF SCOTT GROSS TWENTY SIX RESTAURANT

ISSUE 39 - AUGU ST 20 15

AUGUST 2015 £1.50 WWW.SOMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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PRE-OWNED CLASSICS

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Designers and makers of handmade kitchens

The difference is in the detail

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Please call for a brochure or visit our showrooms Unit 9, Chart Farm , Seal Chart Sevenoaks, Kent TN 15 OES Tel 01732 762682

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CONTENTS

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HELLO HERE’S HERE’S WHAT’S WHAT’S INSIDE INSIDE YOUR YOUR AUGUST JUNE ISSUE ISSUE

34

143

The most controversial celebrity festival moments

These Wealden properties have the wow factor

THE HOMES

THE FEATURE

110 THE TRAVEL

Uncover the beautiful islands of Bali

206 THE MOTOR

Bentley brings world’s fastest ultra-luxury driving experience

63

188

Everything you need for a festival-inspired celebration

Our foodie heads to Southborough’s most select eatery

133

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THE WEDDINGS

THE GARDENS

History was written at Rudyard Kipling’s former home

THE FOOD

THE PLACE Discover what the jewel of the Weald has to offer

STRICTLY SEVENOAKS...

News – Bessels Green pub up for award Letters – good Samaritans recognised in Sevenoaks Festival organiser brings out the bacon Calendar – retro revival at Chiddingstone Castle Chamber of Commerce members celebrate in style Stumble upon Sevenoaks’ finest hostelries Spill the beans at Rafferty’s AUGUST 2 0 1 5

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M A G A Z I N E

C O N TA C T S

16 Lonsdale Gardens Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU Tel: 01892 779 650 www.somagazine.co.uk Editor Richard Moore rmoore@onemediauk.co.uk Deputy Editor Charlie Bond cbond@onemediauk.co.uk Head of Design Rowena Cremer-Price rcremer-price@onemediauk.co.uk Publishing Design Manager Xela Ruy xruy@onemediauk.co.uk Junior Designer Amelia Giddings agiddings@onemediauk.co.uk Production Co-ordinators Lauren Chalmers-Stevens lchalmers-stevens@onemediauk.co.uk Becky Wells bwells@onemediauk.co.uk Writer Frederick Latty flatty@onemediauk.co.uk Digital Marketing Specialist Dan Oztunc doztunc@onemediauk.co.uk Head of Sales Joe De Kwant Stoner jstoner@onemediauk.co.uk COMMERCIAL TEAM Team Leader Gemma Hak ghak@onemediauk.co.uk Team Leader Patsy Kelly pkelly@onemediauk.co.uk Jake Short shortj@onemediauk.co.uk Clara Higgs-Prosser chprosser@onemediauk.co.uk Laura Welstead lwelstead@onemediauk.co.uk Robin Singer rsinger@markerstudy.com Distribution Co-ordinator Harry Lamb Contributors Dom Prevost • Fleur McCoy • Valerie Thacker • Catherine de Crèvecoeur • Craig Matthews David Bartholomew Publishing Director Nick Moore nmoore@onemediauk.co.uk

Like us on Facebook facebook.com/SoMagazines Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/SoMagazines

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SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE ONLINE 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 relating to advertising or editorial. The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit.

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FULLY CATERED BIRTHDAY PARTIES Fun on our giant pool inflatable to sport and bouncy castle parties

PARENT & BABY AND JUNIOR SWIMMING LESSONS Regular 70 week courses, plus swimming lesson crash courses during the school holidays!

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NEWS

Sevenoaks

NEWS...

OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT SOME OF THE LOCAL STORIES MAKING THE HEADLINES

ROAD RAGE

CROWNING THE KING? The team at The King’s Head in Bessels Green are celebrating after being recognised as one of five finalists in the Best Turnaround category of the Great British Pub Awards. Executive chef James Palmer Rosser commented on the accolade saying, “After watching the pub underperform with several licensees in a short space of time we wanted to turn this rundown, neglected venue into a warm and welcoming pub that showcases the best in local food.”

They will go on to compete in the national awards in London in September.

Much Obliged, it was presented by renowned Kent artist, Graham Clarke at Tonbridge Castle. He tells us it was “especially interesting to design an etching to commemorate such an important moment in history.”

Our picture shows Mayoress Mrs Christine Baldock and the Mayor Cllr Owen Baldock with Mrs Wendy Clarke and the artist Graham Clarke.

CLUBBING TOGETHER

MAGNIFICENT Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council have been presented with an etching of the Magna Carta to mark the 800th anniversary of its sealing. Entitled Very

10

Wilderness Golf Club in Seal has raised £22,000 for The Scotts Project Trust, a residential home for adults with learning disabilities in Tonbridge.

Fundraising activities included the Club’s Annual Sportsman’s dinner and fines from players who landed in the designated Captain’s bunker. The money will be used to build an outdoor terrace at the home.

Councils across West Kent are calling for tougher measures to stop lorry drivers from using narrow country roads.

They’re supporting the Local Government Association (LGA) in its fight against ‘road rogues’ who ignore weight and width restrictions leading to greater congestion and more accidents. Some truckers also use sat navs designed for cars. LGA spokesman Peter Box says, “if a community is plagued by problems at a blackspot, councils should be able to respond by issuing fines to act as a deterrent.”

TOUCH OF COLOUR Plans are being finalised for one of the biggest events in the town calendar of Sevenoaks – the Pink Party. Last year’s gathering saw the High Street closed off as thousands joined in the fun. This year’s event will be hosted by Breast Cancer Care and Sevenoaks Town Partnership and will take place on Saturday October 3 at The Vine starting at 2pm. Chair of the town partnership Maxine Chakowa says, ”this will be the third year we have hosted pink week and every year it gets bigger and bigger.” In 2014, the event raised £10,000 for the charity.

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LETTERS

SO

...AND VIEWS

THIS IS WHERE YOU HAVE YOUR SAY ON WHAT’S HAPPENING IN OUR PART OF THE WORLD LETTER OF THE MONTH

definitely recommend you check it out!

AMANDA SUTHERLAND, SEVENOAKS Ed: Sounds like somewhere worth a visit.

SLOW COACHES TIPPING TIPS My friend told me a story the other day of how she’d had dinner at a restaurant with her family. After finishing the meal and paying up, her husband noticed he didn’t have any cash to tip the waitress, and neither did she. They left what they could, not necessarily 10% but it was something nonetheless. When leaving the restaurant, she overheard the waitress complaining about the tip to another waiter. I couldn’t believe this; in my opinion if you’ve been tipped then be grateful – you don’t see any of us getting tipped for a day in the office!

ELIZABETH MELLOR, via email Ed: Here’s a tip – try another restaurant!

RINGING ENDORSEMENT My friend recently lost his phone after leaving it on a bench in Sevenoaks. He didn’t notice it was gone until a man tapped him on the shoulder and gave it back to him.

Turns out he was working in the restaurant opposite the bench and then followed my friend around town trying to return it to him.

My faith in humanity has been restored, so thank you to this kind stranger!

DOM SIMKIN, SEVENOAKS Ed: Sounds like something the fine people of Sevenoaks would do!

SPELLING BLUNDER I’m not the only one who’s part of the grammar and spelling police am I? I found myself enraged when I heard about a train to Tonbridge that had spelt it ‘Tonbrige’ with no ‘d’. It can be an understandable

mistake to make in writing but when displayed on the train heading to that specific location, I felt it was too much of a blunder not to say anything. What was worse was when it was reported to a member of staff on the train, he couldn’t see what was wrong with it. I am relieved that I’ve never seen anything like that in your magazine!

MATT CRAWFORD, TONBRIDGE Ed: Fingers crossed we don’t make the same mistake then!

RAFFERTY’S RAVES I’m new to Sevenoaks and hadn’t explored the area much when I went for a coffee with a friend. She’s a local and suggested we go to Rafferty’s. I was delighted by the excellent service and great food and drink. For anyone else new to the area, I’d

To my fellow commuters, please learn to walk briskly. I often have to run from the train station to catch my bus yet, I end up getting caught in the slow walkers that seem to fill the station! You might not have somewhere urgent to be, but I do, so please would you speed up or move out of the way!

ALEX LEWIS, via email Ed: Why don’t you try blowing a whistle?

TEA STRAINER I never before knew of the opposing views on how to make tea. I’m not a tea drinker myself but my friend is, and in a moment of kindness I decided to make her a brew.

She took one sip and asked if I’d put the milk in first or last and what type of tea I’d used. Turns out I’d done all the wrong things in her opinion but completely right when I asked another friend. Safe to say I won’t be making her a cuppa again!

EMILY CRANLEY, via email Ed: Ah yes, the battle of milk in first or last, we know it well!

Email cbond@onemediauk.co.uk or write to us at SO Sevenoaks, 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU Please be sure to include your full name and address. Letters may be edited for publication.

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----------路路---------63 High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TNI !XU Tel. 01892 534018 I Fax. 01892 510536

Email. info@gcollinsandsons.com I www.gcollinsandsons.com

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INTERVIEW

tend to then go and watch the other bands play until it is time for their set.

TROUBLESHOOTING All kinds of things have the potential to go wrong with this kind of large scale event.

Our biggest concern, being a music festival, is that the sound systems are all working. We do a great deal of event planning ahead of the day to make sure that we have contingencies in place if there are any problems.

KICK OFF After the merchandise stands have been set up, the caterers have brought in equipment, the bouncy castles and children’s activities have been set up and the sound and lighting tests have been run, we’re ready for the main event.

There’s a lot to organise, but once the festival begins it’s time to have fun and enjoy the music.

TAKING THE STAGE My new covers band Roxxon will be performing this year from 9pm. We

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A FESTIVAL ORGANISER Charlie Rivers who helps to organise Poofest in Pootings tells us what goes into making the music happen…

rehearse once a week together. I am really looking forward to performing this year with a new band – it has been a hard slog getting ready but we’re really excited.

rs ve

www.roxxon.co.uk Charli eR i WINDING DOWN

12 MONTHS BEFORE

who take responsibility for

We usually start thinking about the next

different aspects of the

and we have half an hour of

event right after the last one! We like to

event and we get together

DJ music to wind down after

get a date in the diary and make sure

once every week or two to

everyone is on board with helping out for

discuss progress.

The last act finishes at 11pm

that but there is usually an after party, especially with so many people camping!

next year’s festival. We start to think about planning and promotions from about

EARLY MORNING

January/February and then the real work

I always camp over the night before

begins in earnest in about May.

Poofest with a few of the other ‘Poo

The next morning we set about packing

CLEARING UP

Crew’, mainly to look after all the

everything away, but before we can do

THE SET UP

equipment which gets put up on the

anything we need some energy, so the first

Logistically there is a lot to organise, with

Friday, but it means that I’m first on site to

order of business is breakfast. We provide

the obvious things like making sure we

get things going early! Breakfast is always

bacon, sausage and egg rolls on Sunday

have all the infrastructure in place, sorting

first on the agenda!

morning for campers. Once everyone’s eaten we begin clearing up.

out food, drinks, entertainment for the little ones, whilst all the while keeping a

9AM

tight rein on the budget to make sure we

The bands start to arrive at 9am and get

Poofest is a charity festival held in

can raise as much money for charity as

directed to the green room next to the

Pootings, near Sevenoaks on August 22.

possible. We have a great team in place

stage where they drop off their kit. They

www.poofest.co.uk

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By Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen Jeweller G Collins & Sons Limited Royal Tunbridge Wells

@. ~ollin~ & ~on~ ~~~~~~~~~~++~~~~~~~~~~

76/78 High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, KentTNI IYB Tel. 01892 534018 I Fax. 01892 510536 Email. info@gcollinsandsons.com I www.gcollinsandsons.com

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MODEL SHOWN P75008 - ÂŁ41, 711* KRIEDER SHOWROOM - 3 Chapel Place, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN11YO - 01892 619721 - info@krieder.com - www.krieder.com *Price shown includes delivery, cabinet furniture, appliances, worktops and VAT

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

PUTTING A PRICE ON PRICELESS Some household items, particularly those that have been inherited, collected or have sentimental importance, have a value beyond their fmancial worth. In this issue, Shaun Joubert Agent at the West Kent office of NFU Mutual, answers your questions about valuing and insuring your treasured possessions.

Q: Which items do homeowners typically undervalue or

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A: The items most commonly undervalued include artwork,

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Q: Why do homeowners

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Q: If something is of sentimental value, surely it doesn't

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and ensure this is kept up to date. The art and antiques markets fluctuate frequently, with certain items, or pieces from certain periods rising much faster than inflation. To help you place an appropriate value on your treasured possessions, NFU Mutual offers access to valuation experts with wide ranging experience, from fine art to jewellery.

Q: How often should I review my contents insurance?

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Q: How common are insurance claims for jewellery and

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A: It's important to look at the 'whole package' - service, cover

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EVENTS

AUGUST

CALENDAR ST 1Throughout » Mythical Mischeif August take the kids to explore the magical land of Groombridge Place. They can frolic in the Enchanted Forest and meet the woodland fairies or head over to the lagoon where they can watch The Little Mermaid as she performs with her Prince. If a little more action is what they’re looking for then take them to Grom’s Village where they can see performances from Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men as they try to foil the plans of the Sherriff of Nottingham.

Adults £10.95, children £8.45. www.groombridgeplace.com

1ST » Farm Finds

1ST » Family Fun

2ND » A Vintage Affair

For unique finds and hand-crafted items, head to Silcock’s Farm near Tenterden for their Summer Craft Fayre. Between 10am and 4.30pm, the farm’s courtyard will be filled with stalls selling locally crafted items and there will be face painting for children.

The café will be open all day, selling homemade cakes and hot and cold drinks, and the farm shop and butchery will also be open.

For more information, visit www.silcocksfarm-organics.co.uk

Enjoy the best of local produce in beautiful surroundings at Bewl Water’s Kent and Sussex show. Traders selling everything from homeware to food and drink will line the lake for the two day event, while there’s lots of activities for the whole family to participate in during the day. Children can meet Bertie the beaver, take part in sporting challenges and watch puppet shows too.

Kids’ entertainment begins at 11am and entry costs £8 for a car with up to five people. www.bewlwater.co.uk

Indulge in all things retro at Chiddingstone Castle’s first summer vintage fair, held in the castle’s stunning grounds. Between 11am and 4.30pm, browse, shop and delight in a huge array of vintage stalls, listen to music and enjoy lunch and traditional teas in the grounds and tea room. Guests can also visit the photobooth and hair and beauty parlour, watch the Lindy hoppers dance and win prizes for their vintage attire.

Entry costs £3. www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk

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EVENTS

SO

2ND » Swing is the Thing

NT/ PAUL HARRIS

John Hamilton’s Big Band will be playing at Tonbridge Castle. Between 3pm and 5pm they will be performing a number of swing songs made famous by the greats such as Glenn Miller and Duke Ellington. The band is also very much at home with the more modern, upbeat style of artists such as Jools Holland. The huge halls of the castle are the perfect place to listen to their brassy sound.

Entrance is free. www.tonbridgecastle.org

7TH » Friday Fun

15TH » Wild Wood

22nd » Tractor Factor

Every Friday throughout August, children are invited to discover something new at Sissinghurst Castle Garden. Between 2pm and 3.30pm on August 7, make mini rafts and kites, on August 14 go pond dipping to discover what lives beneath the surface, on August 21 explore the woods on a tree adventure and from 11am on August 28 learn essential bushcraft and shelter making skills, with food cooked on the fire pit. Normal admission charges apply and tickets are £5 per child. The bushcraft event is £12 per child. To book, call 08442 491 895.

For a weekend of woodland fun, head to Sevenoaks for the Kent Wildlife Trust’s annual Festival of Wildlife, which takes place on Saturday August 15 and Sunday August 16.

Take part in guided walks, go bug hunting and learn more about the local wildlife and environment through a series of talks over the weekend. There will also be many stalls selling artisan products, food and drink and embracing this year’s woodland theme is Mrs Tea, with her vintage pop-up tea room. Entry costs £3 and the festival is open from 10am to 4pm each day. www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Back for its third year, Biddenden’s Tractorfest weekend is returning to the village on Saturday August 22 and Sunday August 23 between 10am and 4.30pm. Enjoy arena shows, see a collection of tractors old and new and view farming implements and machines from bygone years. There will also be demonstrations of ploughing, wool spinning, wood turning, basketry, green wood and trug making and you can even try your hand at archery or experience a helicopter flight. Entry is £7.50 for adults and £3 for children. www.tractorfest.co.uk AUGUST 2 0 1 5

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EVENTS

SO

31ST » Hop Holiday

NT/ARNHEL DE SERRA

LANDMARKMEDIA / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Soak up the bank holiday sun at the Grasshopper Inn in Westerham, when they hold a Beer and BBQ event in their hidden garden. For drink aficionados, The London Beer Company will be on hand, offering tastings of their craft beers and ales. During the event, which runs from 12pm to 5pm, guests can also indulge in some Great British barbeque food.

Entry is free – to book, email info@grasshopperinn.co.uk or call 01959 563 136.

22ND » Supper Speech

23RD » Much to See

29TH » Knight Fight

Learn more about Ann Widdecombe’s fascinating career while enjoying dinner and drinks, at the London Beach Hotel in Tenterden. The charity evening, raising funds for Hi Kent, the county’s own deaf and hard of hearing charity, begins at 7pm with a drinks reception on the terrace. There will be dinner to follow and a speech with anecdotes from Ann on her time on TV and in Parliament.

Tickets to the black tie event cost £42.50 and can be booked by calling 01622 691 151

Smallhythe Place in Tenterden sees the return of The Pantaloons as they put their unique and hilarious spin on the well-loved Shakespearean classic Much Ado about Nothing. Sit outside in the summer air and enjoy this brilliant take on the play. Guests are encouraged to bring picnics and chairs or blankets to sit on while they enjoy the timeless summer comedy of masks, music and mistaken identities.

Adults £15, Children £8. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Step back in time and spend a weekend living in the past at Hever Castle’s Tudor Living and Jousting event. From Saturday August 29 to Monday August 31, explore a Tudor encampment, watch displays of armed combat, listen to historic tales and witness more thrills and spills from brave knights in an exciting jousting tournament. Normal entry fees apply. Gardens open at 10.30am and the castle is open from 12pm. www.hevercastle.co.uk AUGUST 2 0 1 5

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HEYER CASTLE & GARDENS CHILDHOOD HOME OF ANNE BOLEYN

JOUSTING TOURNAMENTS August 8/9, 15/16, 22/23, 28-31

Spectacular displays of action, stunts, falls and fights in an authentic arena

TUDOR LIVING August 29-31

Tudor encampment, re-enactments and stalls with more thrills and spills from the jousting tournament Discover pona life, learn all al5out trees or practice bush craft basics.

Every Eriday throughout August

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT

hevercastle.co. uk/whatson Or call - 01732 865224

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AUGUST

THIS MONTH

YOU SHOULD

BOOK There’s nothing like watching Andy Murray playing at Wimbledon to spread the tennis fever, so why not enjoy it like a pro too and book a few days away at the luxury chateau Lou Casteou in the South of France for its all-inclusive luxury residential tennis retreat, from Thursday September 3 to Monday September 7. The five day all inclusive event can cater for up to 18 guests. All meals, drinks and wines will be included and talented French chef, Jonathan Levy will prepare healthy and delicious meals served around the chateau’s heated infinity pool surrounded by its historic cloisters. The tennis sessions will be held at a nearby club affiliated with Lou Casteou and will be led by Richie Baker and his experienced team of French and English tennis professionals. Sessions will take place every morning with a tournament held on Sunday 6. The event is priced at £1,180 per person and can be booked by contacting Morag McLaren Baxter by email: morag@loucasteou.com or phoning 07990 573 287.

READ

LISTEN

WATCH

Once again, the story of one of Henry VIII’s wives will hit the pages of Phillipa Gregory’s new book, The Taming of the Queen. Written by the same author who produced The Other Boleyn Girl and The Constant Princess, the book revisits the years of Kateryn Parr, the sixth and final wife of Henry VIII. With four wives dead before her, Kateryn knows she is involved in a dangerous game but has no choice but to marry the man old enough to be her father. Her trust in him may bring them closer but her independence as a woman may tear them apart. Accused of heresy, Kateryn finds herself facing death by fire and the King’s name is on the warrant. £14 at www.waterstones.com from August 13.

August 14 will see Jess Glynne release her first very own studio album. The singer, signed to Atlantic Records, is best known for her collaboration with Route 94, producing My Love and Rather Be with Clean Bandit – both UK number ones. Her recent single Hold my Hand spent 3 weeks at the top spot, then a further 12 weeks in the chart.

I Cry When I Laugh is her debut album and has all of her most recent works, with the deluxe version including her collaborations.

Jess will be touring the UK come October supporting the release of her new album.

I Cry When I Laugh will be available to buy from www.amazon.com at £9.99 for the standard CD and £12 for the deluxe edition.

Based on the literary classic by Thomas Hardy, Far From the Madding Crowd is set is the rural West Country of Victorian England and portrays a story of one girl and three suitors. Bathsheba Everdene, played

by Carey Mulligan, inherits her uncle’s farm and decides to manage it herself. Having employed a sheep farmer to help manage the farm, she finds herself torn between him, a handsome and reckless sergeant, and a prosperous and mature bachelor.

This story explores the decisions made by a passionate and headstrong woman and how these can be both her strengths and weaknesses at the same time.

Available at www.amazon.co.uk from August 31 priced at £9.99.

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THIS MONTH YOU SHOULD

SO

STRETCH

ADMIRE

Ever felt that in order to relax more in yoga you should add some height? The Shard in London is now offering one-to-one yoga classes on the 72nd level of the building. At a height of 1,016ft, you can combine the 360-degree view of London with the calming and enriching practise of yoga with one of the class founders. Relaxing in the clouds will set you back £1,620.

Book now at www.yogasphere.eu

The Colour of Words is the exhibition of Benjamin Hannavy Cousen’s art, displayed at One One Six in Tenterden until August 30. His paintings describe his experience of reading books and are produced through the application of acrylic paint with a syringe with the artist methodically tracking thin lines across the canvas so that they accumulate on its surface. A colour is added each time it appears within a text, either as a ‘colour word’ (i.e. red, green, blue etc) or a word that evokes a colour response, such as ‘brassy’ or ‘rainbow’.

The resulting compositions, which can be ‘read’ in the way that a barcode might be scanned, capture both the colour information of a text and the sensory or emotional reaction of the reader. www.jennymilleroneonesix.com

PROTECT We’ve reached August and with the heat wave we’ve had, there’s nothing like a pair of shades to keep the sun at bay. Céline’s simple and elegant new butterfly sunglasses are the perfect accessory to any outfit, whether it be to enjoy a wedding in the sun, a festival, or just a day out in the sunshine. A perfect example of the brand’s signature minimalism, these glasses will round off any outfit.

Make them yours for just £250 from www.harrods.com.

FLY You either love it or hate it, but flying fanatics can really indulge their passion with a flight in a WWII aircraft. With only 53 left in action, the Spitfire is one of the most iconic British aircrafts of the Second World War and its distinctive engine noise, trim fuselage and heroic history make it a once in a lifetime experience. You could enjoy 20 privileged minutes of beautiful Northamptonshire views in this valiant aircraft donning a flight suit and parachute (not that you’d need it) for just £2,495.

Book now at www.virginexperiencedays.co.uk

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RANT

TAKEN FOR A RIDE...

Here’s where we give the readers the chance to air their opinions on contentious local issues.

Ever felt anger towards the lycra-obsessed two-wheeled nuisances that fill up our roads?

Alix from Tunbridge Wells explains why cyclists put a spanner in her spokes…

C

yclists. You’re either one of them or you’re itching to get past them whilst they take up a car’s width on the road. I am the latter.

There are only two possible explanations for cycling: exercise and getting outside. Don’t get me wrong, I think exercise is an incredibly important part of life but please can someone explain to me why cyclists feel they need to do it in the most inconvenient place. There are gyms, some that have bikes that stand still and can’t get in the way of cars on the road. Sure, memberships are expensive, but by the time you’ve bought the bike and all the gear that goes with it you might as well have paid for a year’s membership. And please don’t try telling me that you don’t have the time to go to the gym because if you have the time to get up at 6 o’clock in the morning on a Sunday and go for a bike ride then you definitely have time to go to the gym instead. And as for getting outside and getting some fresh air – go for a walk!

Preferably on a pavement I might add.

Fine, it’s clear that I’m not going to win the argument for getting rid of cycling on the road altogether, but at least play by the rules like drivers do. I can’t count the number of times where I’ve crossed at traffic lights and was almost mown down by a cyclist who felt the red light didn’t apply to them. Oh, and of course it’s my fault that they didn’t follow the rules of the road!

I’ve been driving for four years now, so I’m well aware of the dangers that come with cyclists; for example trying to overtake them. When it’s just one of them and they’ve placed themselves nicely to the left then overtaking them can be safe and simple.

What I do struggle with is the group of eight cyclists who feel that cycling one behind the other is acceptable, some of them twoabreast having a nice little chat. I recently found myself stuck behind a horsebox behind three cyclists abreast of each other. I settled down for a nice slow journey travelling at 10mph whilst the horsebox dithered over whether to overtake or not.

I think my rage for this activity is heightened by the fact that they don’t have to pay road tax, whereas each year I fork out £145 to drive on the roads. I’m sure lots of cyclists will probably be yelling that road tax is for co2 emissions right about now but personally I think the road tax should be for everyone who uses the roads – cyclists included.

I’d love to say that maybe it’s just jealousy and that really I’d love to be able to get out on the roads and cycle for miles and miles oblivious to the rest of the world queuing up behind me, but realistically, I really couldn’t think of anything worse and I’ll spare the rest of the worlds’ drivers the hassle of one more cyclist thinking they own the road.

DO YOU HAVE A RANT YOU’D LIKE TO RELEASE? Email your views, in no more than 600 words, to Deputy Editor Charlie Bond: cbond@onemediauk.co.uk. We won’t publish anonymous letters and contact details must be supplied, but if you’d prefer not to be named in print please make this preference clear.

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22/07/2015 15:33

SO

CONFIDENTIAL

BY TACITUS

NOTHING ESCAPES OUR ATTENTION WHO put a flight of fancy before his wedding?

The man torn between his love of old planes and the love of his lady.

While saving for the big day he got the chance to fly in a WW2 Mustang for £2,000. Wedding or flight?

No contest: he took to the air. Start as you mean…

WHO

WHY

WHICH

WHO

has absolutely no conscience?

The male motorist whose car bumped into another vehicle parked outside the supermarket.

As shoppers looked on, he climbed out, wrote a note and placed it on the windscreen of the damaged car before driving off. And here’s what it said: “People think I’m writing down my insurance details - I am not.” What a rotter!

does this much heard phrase sound wrong?

Background: Mum visits local pub to show off her new-born and hands girl over to a male friend. Realising the man is worse for wear, she says: “You’re not going to be sick over my baby are you?”

Surely that should be the other way round?

gardener has a novel way of drumming up business?

The one who hangs around flower stalls in supermarkets and makes informed comments to other shoppers about the floral displays. They ask how he knows so much about blooms and plants. He tells them what he does; they offer him work. Result.

has a really interesting sense of humour?

Simples: The socially mobile mum who has a small plaque in her designer kitchen that reads: ‘Unattended children will be given espresso coffee then handed a free puppy to take home.’ Point made.

WHICH

WHO

WHY

WHO

builder has really hit the nail on the head?

The one who has taken the time to plaster a large sign across the back of his blue van that simply declares: ‘Blood, sweat and beers.’ What!

No cups of tea.

sticks fruit labels in a funny place?

That would be the (very) senior journalist who is somewhat obsessed with peeling the tiny stickers from bananas, oranges and the like and putting them on the cover of his office diary. Last count, he had hundreds on there, more than five a day.

did this enterprising young man cut up his carpet?

Because he came home from the pub, felt queasy and was unwell all over his bedroom carpet.

Undaunted, he grabbed a Stanley knife, cut out the offending area and threw it out the window. Clean up completed.

paid a high price for wearing skinnies?

The young mum who found her hands trapped inside the tight fit jeans when she took a tumble in the street and couldn’t save herself from landing flat on her face, right in front of some admiring males.

Pride cometh etc, etc.

Got a rumour? Pass it on via confidential@onemediauk.co.uk We never reveal our sources

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ADVERTORIAL

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23/07/2015 17:34

At Granite Transformations, we offer a complete package for updating your kitchen work surfaces, splashbacks, cabinet doors and appliances. Fitting stunning new worktops is fast and effective, with each top custom-made to your exact specifications. There is no need to remove your old worktops, since we simply fit our beautiful, hardwearing surfaces straight on top, meaning no dust, debris or disruption and ensuring complete peace of mind. To complete the new look, we can also supply and fit made-to-measure replacement cabinet doors and drawer fronts in a wide choice of colours, finishes and styles.

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F E S T I VA L S

As the summer months are once again dominated by festival fever, we take a look at the origins of these musical gatherings and how they’ve shaped today’s culture

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F E S T I VA L S

FESTIVAL FLASHBACK

event on August 15 1969 and, during its

On the bill was T-Rex, Stackridge and Al

inaugural year, saw 32 acts take to the

Stewart and all festivalgoers were given

Though it’s often assumed music

stage in front of an audience of 50,000

free milk over the two-day event.

festivals are a recent development and,

at a dairy farm in Bethel, New York. At

while they certainly gained popularity

first, booking acts was a struggle, but

organised by Andrew Kerr and Arabella

and presence in the 20th century, the

once Creedence Clearwater Revival

Churchill. Held over Summer Solstice and

origins actually date back much further.

agreed to perform for a sum of $10,000,

known as Glastonbury Fayre, the likes of

Woodstock began as a three-day

19 1970, the day after Jimi Hendrix died.

In 1971, Glastonbury returned, this time

David Bowie performed to crowds of

It’s believed the first music festivals

12,000, and it was this year that the iconic

were held as early as 4500BC in Ancient Egypt. These were religious or political

Kithara

Pyramid Stage was introduced. It wasn’t

gatherings where thousands would come

until 1981, when Michael Eavis once again

together to feast, dance and enjoy music.

returned to the helm of the festival, that it

However, it wasn’t until the 6th century

became known just as Glastonbury. New

BC that the first known music festival

Order and Aswad performed, the Pyramid

was held in Ancient Greece, during the

Stage was rebuilt as a permanent structure,

Pythian Games in Delphi. A forerunner of

and the rest, as they say, is history.

From its humble beginnings,

the modern Olympic Games, these events featured competitions for art and

Glastonbury is now the biggest

dance, as well as athletics. The

greenfield festival in the world, selling

competitions would include live music,

out within minutes and drawing in

which would feature different musicians

crowds of around 170,000 over what has

playing flutes and ancient Greek string

become a five-day extravaganza.

The UK now plays host to some of the

instruments such as the Kithara.

world’s most popular festivals, with

Fast forward to the 20th century, and

Creamfields, Lovebox, Bestival, Wireless

with Kitharas but a distant memory,

and Reading, to name but a few.

festivals began to have something of a resurgence. The year1937 saw the

other artists were quick to jump on

Boutique festivals have also risen in

Berkshire Festival in Massachusetts,

board, with the likes of Jimi Hendrix,

popularity and throughout the summer

now known as Tanglewood, take place

The Who and Ravi Shankar performing

not a weekend goes by when a music

for the first time. During the three-

during the weekend.

event of some sort isn’t taking place.

concert series, orchestras performed the

It was only a year later that a similar

Locally, festivals are big news too. The

likes of Beethoven and Wagner, and

festival took place, only this time it was

now defunct Hop Farm festival at

while this is a far cry from the modern

in Somerset, England, and at the time

Paddock Wood saw big acts like James

musical offerings of today’s festivals,

went by the name of the Pilton Pop,

Blunt, Grace Jones, Bob Dylan and

this event is still considered the first

Blues and Folk Festival. This was, of

Mumford and Sons playing at the

music festival of the modern era.

course, Glastonbury, now arguably the

grounds when it ran from 2008 to 2014.

UK’s most iconic festival.

For the past decade, Local & Live has

It took over 30 years for a festival in

been a regular fixture in Tunbridge Wells,

the format that we now recognise them

Created by Michael Eavis after he was

to be born. This revolutionary event was

inspired by the blues festival at the Bath

bringing thousands of music lovers

Woodstock, which, since its conception

& West Showground, it was held at

together for a long weekend of

has been dubbed one of the greatest

Worthy Farm, cost just £1 to enter and

celebrations, while Tenterden’s annual

and most pivotal moments in popular

had 1,500 punters in attendance when it

Tentertainment festival has gone from an

music history.

was held for the first time on September

afternoon of live music to a three-day

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F E S T I VA L S

SO

spotted in the crowd.

Woodstock Festival

When Beyoncé headlined Glastonbury in 2011, speculation was rife that husband Jay Z would be making an appearance on stage, after the pair were spotted in the crowds watching Coldplay together.

Sadly, he didn’t join her on stage the following night, but for some, catching a glimpse of the A-listers partying together was enough.

With each festival comes a different calibre of celebrity, but Coachella in California possibly boasts the most star spots. Owing to its sunny climate and huge headline acts, the event is dubbed ‘the festival celebrities want to be at’, and year on year the sum of famous faces increases. Everyone from Rihanna to Kate Bosworth has been known to make the annual pilgrimage, and the thousands of

Grace Jones

Today’s bohemian, indie festival style that frequents the fields and arenas may be different, but the fashions are heavily influenced by these early statement styles.

While celebrities have always been the driving force behind trends, festival fashion

Instagram photos are a testament to just how many stars frequent the festival.

RAIN OR SHINE

really came into its own in the early 2000s,

Despite the idyllic, sun-soaked scenery

when the likes of Sienna Miller and Kate

depicted in festival posters and

Moss were splashed across magazine and

Instagram pictures, festival weather is

newspaper spreads looking chic without a

often at best, unpredictable and at worst,

cagoule or fleece in sight.

well, incredibly wet and muddy. While

The defining moment, perhaps, was in

most festivals occur during the summer

2005 when Kate Moss wore denim cut-off

months, there’s nothing to guarantee the

shorts and Hunter wellies to Glastonbury.

weather will reflect the time of year.

Clutching a pint of beer and with a rock

Perhaps the most notable example of

affair with multiple stages. Our part of

star boyfriend on her arm, she waded

this was Glastonbury 2005, when two

the world, with its picturesque settings

through the mud exuding such effortless

months’ worth of rain fell in just a few

and lush green fields, provides the ideal

glamour that the world sat up and took

hours and storms tore across the

setting for some of the country’s biggest

notice. History was made, and a decade

Somerset site, causing major disruption

music events, and every year more and

on, every festival fashionista’s wardrobe

and flooding. Tents were washed away

more are held close to home.

still emulates Kate’s.

and some festivalgoers were forced to swim their way through the campsite.

TRENDSETTERS

STAR APPEAL

regular fixture in glossy magazines and

themselves is the legion of celebrities

on the catwalk, and, come summer,

frequenting festivals. While some are

fringing, floral headbands and denim

never spotted far from the VIP area,

hotpants dominate the high street. But

others, at least from the outset, appear to

where did this style evolve from?

be slumming it in the mud with the

Festival fashion has now become a

As festivals took off during the ‘60s and

Almost as talked about as the acts

Mud was a major problem too – portable toilets and bars sank and visitors had to wade their way through inches of sludge.

James Blunt

regular festivalgoers. Every year, as

‘70s, so did the fashion, and many of the

headliners are announced, speculation

styles today are reminiscent of these

begins to build over which stars will be

early influences. The festivals were all

spotted donning their wellies and

about peace and love, and the laid-back

heading for the beer tent. While some,

vibe was reflected in the clothing,

such as Alexa Chung and Kate Moss, are

which was patterned, loose and

regulars among the festival circuit,

effortlessly stylish.

others create a buzz when they’re

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F E S T I VA L S

Glastonbury Festival

With each festival comes a different calibre of celebrity, but Coachella in California possibly boasts the most star spots. Owing to its sunny climate and huge headline acts, the event is dubbed ‘the festival celebrities want to be at’

While these were the worst conditions Glastonbury had experienced, the festival famously seems to attract unsettled conditions, with rain forecast most years.

In what was dubbed the ‘worst year for festival weather’, 2012 saw many gatherings blighted by rain of biblical proportions, as events were cancelled and people’s spirits severely dampened.

Creamfields, a dance music festival held in Cheshire, which annually sees around 180,000 music lovers flocking to the site, endured such extreme weather that they were forced to pull the plug a day early, while those travelling to the Isle of Wight festival also experienced the wrath of the weather. Thousands were caught up for hours in gridlocked traffic as a result of gales and flooding, while even the bands taking to the stage were stuck in the 10-hour delays.

While rain is often synonymous with festivals, especially in Britain, the sun has also played its part in disrupting some of

Coachella

the biggest music events in the world too. In 1999, when 38°c temperatures hit Woodstock, the crowds found it too hot to handle, and riots, looting and even arson attacks broke out across the site.

Also struggling to cope under the soaring temperatures were attendees of the CMS music festival in Nashville earlier this year, where, in the first few hours of the event almost 170 people had been treated for heat exhaustion.

While the weather never really detracts from the experience, it’s perhaps advisable to pack for all eventualities and invest in a good pair of wellies…

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ORANGERIES

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22/07/2015 15:34

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F E S T I VA L S

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LOCAL LINE-UP The best music festivals in our part of the world this month jazz trio, GoGo Penguin, to name but a few. There will also be screenings of films such as Ray – the biopic of the life and times of Ray Charles.

For information, times and prices, visit www.ryejazz.com

27TH SMALL WORLD SUMMER FESTIVAL Held in beautiful, secluded

countryside in Headcorn, the Small World summer festival from Thursday August 27 to Monday August 31 is powered by the wind and sun and celebrates sustainable living, creativity and crafts. As well as music ranging from jazz to ska, there’s creative workshops for kids, many forms of healing,

7TH FORGOTTEN FIELDS

ranging from colour therapy to

Get up close and personal with your favourite artists at Forgotten Fields – an intimate festival in

drink, yoga and even a fire

Eridge Park. From August 7 to 9, see the likes of Super Furry Animals, Basement Jaxx and

show. Day tickets cost £25 and

Razorlight take to the stage in front of a crowd limited to just 4,000. While you’re there, enjoy food

weekend camping costs from £75.

from around the world, real ales and a boutique camping experience. Tickets start from £90 and

www.smallworldsolarstage.org

reflexology, organic food and

SARAH POOK PHOTOGRAPHY

can be purchased at www.forgottenfields.co.uk

Returning to Pootings village

ARLEN CONNELLY

CRAIG MATTHEWS

22ND POOFEST

for its fifth year, Poofest festival brings a whole host of talents to the stage this month.

The not-for-profit event, last

15TH SUSSEX SOLSTICE

year raised £33,000 for charity

Taking place at The Forum in

even more. Among the local

Tunbridge Wells, this one-day

bands playing are The

festival showcases new talent.

28TH LOCAL & LIVE

27TH RYE INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL

This Bank Holiday weekend

See some of the world’s finest

festival, which takes place in

Standard Lamps, Roxxon and

jazz musicians perform at

various locations across the

The all-day boutique festival

The Violet Jive. The festival

Rye’s prestigious International

town. The four-day event,

begins at 1pm on Saturday

begins at 12pm and adult

Jazz and Blues Festival.

which runs from Friday August

August 15 and keeps going until

tickets are £30. There’s

Spanning four days and five

28 to Monday August 31, sees

1am the next morning. The event

camping available for those

nights from Thursday August

artists taking to the main stage

aims to promote new, exciting

looking to make a weekend of

27 to Monday August 31, the

at Calverley Grounds, as well

and high-quality bands and

it. There’s even a beer brewed

coastal town comes alive with

as performing at the likes of

singer/songwriters from the local

especially for the event, aptly

the sounds of some of the

The Grey Lady, Scallywag Café

area and beyond with acoustic

named ‘poobeer’. See page 16

greats, including Theo

and Sankey’s. To find out who’s

and main stages. Advance tickets

for the inside story.

Jackson, James Tormè and

performing and when, visit

cost £15. www.twforum.co.uk

www.poofest.co.uk

Mercury prize award-winning

www.localandlive.org

and is this year hoping to raise

marks the 10th anniversary of Tunbridge Wells’ Local & Live

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MAKING THE HEADLINES We take a look at some of the more controversial and downright disastrous festival headliners…

Kanye West GLASTONBURY 2015

While Kanye West wasn’t the first hip hop or rap star to headline Glastonbury, he’s arguably one of the more controversial bookings the festival has seen. As soon as it was announced he would be taking to the Pyramid Stage as the Saturday evening headliner there was online outrage, with ticketholders threatening to boycott the festival.

A change.org petition was set up online calling for West to be replaced with a rock band and quickly gathered almost 135,000 signatures.

Despite objections, however, the show did go on, albeit to mixed reviews. Kanye’s set was blighted with mishaps, from comedian Lee Nelson invading the stage and forcing him to restart the song he was in the middle of, to sound difficulties.

Perhaps the lasting memory of his performance was when, during a rare address to the crowd, he told them “you are now watching the greatest living rock star on the planet.” Maybe a bold claim from someone who was petitioned against due to his lack of rock credibility.

SUGGS

BESTIVAL 2007 Despite not headlining the festival themselves, Madness managed to hit the headlines in 2007 while at Bestival. The band had played the main stage at the festival, held on the Isle of Wight, on the Saturday night but it was the Sunday, during headline act Primal Scream’s set that they really caught the crowd’s attention.

As around 20,000 onlookers watched, Madness frontman Suggs drunkenly clambered on stage and pulled the microphone from Scottish rocker Bobby Gillepsie’s hands, before proceeding to shout obscenities, bizarrely not aimed at Primal Scream, but at the Rolling Stones. He then shouted “This is the best rock ‘n’ roll band in the world!” before being pulled offstage by security guards.

It doesn’t seem like Suggs learned his lesson, however; in 2012 he leapt on stage during a black tie event in Oxford as Sting was giving an exclusive performance. The musician had to stop his set while Suggs ‘introduced’ him to the crowd, then went in for a hug before dancing around Sting.

Security guards eventually managed to escort him off as the crowd cheered and waved goodbye.

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F E S T I VA L S

RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS

OASIS

To this day, people still talk about the

While Oasis were always a more alternative choice

series of unfortunate events that

for the primarily pop music festival, when they

occurred when the Red Hot Chili Peppers

suddenly pulled out of their headline set,

took to the stage at Reading Festival in

speculation was rife that a split was imminent. At

2007. Within minutes, the crowd were

the time, the official line was that Liam had

booing and there were calls of “turn it

contracted viral laryngitis, but less than a month

up!” as the sound failed to carry to the

later the band called it quits, leaving fans

back of the audience, while the band’s

wondering if their excuses had ever been genuine.

SO

V FESTIVAL 2009

READING 2007

Stepping into their V Festival slot were Irish indie

instruments began cutting out.

band Snow Patrol who proved to be a worthy

It later transpired that frontman Anthony Keidis had jumped on a power

replacement by taking to the stage and covering a

cable during their opening song Can’t

series of Oasis hits so as not to leave fans disappointed.

Stop and the band, who were confused as to what was going on, began cutting their instruments in and out in response to the outage. After four songs the issues were rectified, but the criticism was strong – many dubbed it the Chili’s ‘worst ever performance’ and said that despite playing for a further two hours,

JAY Z

GLASTONBURY 2008

the band seemed disinterested in the

Nine years before the Kanye controversy ensued,

whole experience.

Glastonbury organisers faced a backlash when they booked hip hop megastar Jay Z to headline, as the first rapper in the festival’s history. Even fellow musicians waded into the debate, with Oasis frontman Noel Gallagher saying “I’m sorry, but Jay Z? No chance. Glastonbury has the tradition of guitar music ... I’m not having hiphop at Glastonbury. It’s wrong.”

Jay Z didn’t listen to sceptics and shrugged off criticism when he took to the Pyramid Stage.

His opening song? Oasis’ Wonderwall…

THE KINKS

PILTON POP BLUES & FOLK FESTIVAL 1970 In its first year, when Glastonbury was just known as the Pilton Pop, Blues and Folk Festival, The Kinks were the much-anticipated headliners, alongside Wayne Fontana and the Mindbenders. However, it seems the little-known festival wasn’t quite big enough for them, and despite being offered £500 and unlimited milk, at the last minute they pulled the plug on their performance, leaving organisers in the lurch.

Luckily, a last minute replacement was found in the form of Tyrannosaurus Rex, who later became known as T-Rex. While it’s believed The Kinks bowed out because the event was described as a ‘mini festival’, thankfully T-Rex weren’t phased by this, with frontman Marc Bolan making an entrance in a velvet covered car. The band’s performance was legendary and they put both themselves and the festival firmly on the map.

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THE LOOK

SO

FASHION INSIDER

PERSONAL STYLIST CATHERINE DE CRÈVECOEUR REVEALS HOW TO BRING THE LATEST TRENDS TO YOUR AUGUST WARDROBE

I

f you’re joining the festival crowd this month, then it’s the perfect time to experiment and release your inner boho. Whether you’re

looking to channel the hippy chic vibe or the groupie glamrock style, I would recommend however to keep things as simple as possible.

After all you’re going there to enjoy the experience and the last thing you want is to be complaining about your damp jeans or a tangled fringed skirt. While many style celebrities like Kate Moss or Alexa Chung use the festival season as their own personal catwalk, there is no reason why you can’t create your own stylish yet practical festival look.

STEAL HER STYLE

Unless it’s guaranteed not to rain, avoid wearing jeans as they just get clogged with mud and are miserable to be

Kate Bosworth channels this cool, off-duty look perfectly. Make this style work for you with this relaxed denim shirt by Jaeger (£99, www.jaeger.com) www.jaeger.com teamed with this Yumi floral print skirt (£45, www.yumi.com). Finish off the look with these cute ankle boots by Deichenmann (£49.99, www.deichenmann.com)

wearing if you’re soaked through. If you’re done with the cut off denim shorts look then go for a playsuit, like this one by Very, (£49, www.very.co.uk). Team with wellies or ankle boots and a denim jacket which you can tie around your waist. Also keep a pair of nude tights handy that will wash and dry quickly.

Some form of raincoat, poncho, or other rain gear is a good idea for the inevitable shower when you know the forecast promises some. It’s also a good idea to have a mini emergency kit which contains bin bags in

“PLAYING DRESS-UP BEGINS AT AGE FIVE AND NEVER TRULY ENDS.” KATE SPADE

top

TIP

Invest in a bra that fits you really well.

It will give you the support you need and make a significant difference to how your outfit looks.

case you need to fashion up a raincoat for you or a fellow festival goer.

Sandals aren’t recommended if you’re planning on getting close to the stage. Choose shoes or boots that protect your precious feet and toes should someone manage to stomp on them.

Look at adding some accessories to your outfit, such as a trilby hat, a bandanna (which, if the weather is very hot, can be worn wet to cool you down), and, as unflattering as this may sound, a bum bag instead of a handbag.

Catherine de Crèvecoeur PERSONAL STYLIST www.stylepourmoi.com

Splurge vs Steal Embrace the festival season with these gorgeous stripy shorts Missoni (£290, ). Simply www.stylebop.com). team with a white tee-shirt, a fitted denim jacket and black boots for the perfect hippy chic look. Rock the same look for a fraction of the price with these shorts from New Look (£14.99, www.newlook.com)

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23/07/2015 12:04

Get Ready for Summer!

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O Designer EYE Outlet 23/07/2015 12:20

THE LOOK

SO

FESTIVAL FOOTWEAR

BE STYLISH AT A FESTIVAL WHATEVER THE WEATHER WITH OUR TOP FOOTWEAR PICKS

SOPHIA WEBSTER

Pink riko high top trainers, £300 www.liberty.co.uk

HUNTER

GIVENCHY

Asymmetric colour block wellies, £130 www.office.co.uk

Black fold over leather knee boots, £1,450 www.harveynichols.com

RAYNE SHOES

Babe sandals, £375 www.rayneshoes.co.uk

MODA IN PELLE

Argenta sneaker, £99.95 www.modainpelle.com

ISABEL MARANT

Jeepy ecru leather sandals, £575 www.harveynichols.com

CARVELA

Kiki knee high sandals, £130 www.houseoffraser.co.uk

QUESTION AIR

Senso lucas III shoe, £189 www.question-air.com

OPS & OPS

No.10 bumper car sky flats, £190 www.opsandops.com

MICHAEL KORS

Fulton harness wellington boots, £115 www.selfridges.com

LA PORTEGNA

Espadrille in navy, £145 www.laportegna.com

VALENTINO

Stud wellies, £255 www.selfridges.com

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THE LOOK

SO

BEAUTY BULLETIN WE BRING YOU THE LATEST HEADLINES FROM THE BEAUTY WORLD

BEER BEAUTY

FAST RESULTS Slaves to the 5:2 diet needn’t deprive themselves twice a week any more, new research has found. Scientists from the University of Southern California recently finished their study into the most effective and safe way to get the benefits of a fasting diet and discovered that extreme fasting wasn’t necessary to get results. Once a month for five days people limited calorie intake by 34% to 54% which mimicked the effects of fasting without the dangers of going without food.

The rest of the month normal food habits resumed. After three months the individuals had reduced the risk of ageing, diabetes, heart disease and cancer as well as losing belly fat.

Now, where was that biscuit jar?

The Z list

They’re known for their ‘best beer in the world’ campaigns, but now drinks company Carlsberg have broken into the beauty industry – by creating a range of male grooming products made from barley, hops and wheat. Each product in the Beer Beauty series contains 0.5 litres of real Carlsberg beer, which has been freeze-dried and mixed with organic ingredients to create a shampoo, conditioner and body lotion. In keeping with Carlsberg’s tongue-in-cheek brand persona, the packaging warns users to ‘groom responsibly’. The set costs € 63.84 and is available from www.thirstforgreat.com

If you love a lazy lie-in then you could be in luck. While many experts have previously claimed we shouldn’t be getting more than nine hours shut-eye a night, a new study by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) has found that there is no upper-limit for how much sleep is good for you. Their findings also showed that adults should be getting a minimum of seven hours a night and that chronic under-sleeping is linked to health problems such as weight gain, diabetes and heart disease. If ever you needed an excuse to ditch the alarm clock, this could be it.

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SO

THE LOOK

dit: s_

TO A TEA Want Miranda Kerr’s gorgeous looks? While you might think you’d have to spend thousands to get the Aussie model’s glow, Miranda has recently revealed the secret to her soft skin – green tea facials. The star unwinds at the end of the week by filling her sink with boiling water and a green tea bag, then steaming her face to open her pores. As well as antioxidant properties, green tea is also thought to help prevent the skin ageing.

Retail Recognition Although it was pipped to the post by Savers in 2014, Avon has once again been crowned best health and beauty retailer at the Verdict 2015 Customer Satisfaction Awards – a title it also won in 2013. This year, Avon beat retail giants Boots and Amazon to the top spot, after receiving the most nominations from satisfied customers. Avon was commended for its introduction of more innovative products and its personal customer service. Over 22,000 customers were surveyed about their retail experiences.

DETOX DRINKS Those struggling to regularly get their five a day could be in luck, as the clean eating craze has spilled over into cocktails. Juice company Imbibery has teamed up with luxury vodka creators Belvedere to create nutritious and healthy mixers intended to be turned into cold-pressed cocktails.

The Greeña Colada, consisting of spinach, coconut H2O and pineapple, and the Hail Mary, a mix of tomato, cucumber, beet, lemon and cayenne pepper are the two new tasty treats on offer. While they aren’t an alternative to a gym membership, they’ll certainly taste better than soda water. www.imbiberylondon.com

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It a 11 starts with a finishing touch REFINE THE FEATURES YOU ALWAYS WISHED WERE DIFFERENT AND LIVE LIFE WITH CONFIDENCE.

Want to look younger? Still want to look natural? Looking for expert guidance? Everything you want to know about facial rejuvenation from medical grade skin care through to injections and fillers to surgery Talk to Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital about our expert cosmetic procedures and non-surgical treatments. You will receive the individual attention you need and deserve. You will see the same consultant throughout your treatment journey from the initial consultation, right through to the surgery itself and the recovery period.

The new you starts here - Visit our website for more information.

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THE LOOK

SO

BEAUTY

bulletin Here are some of our favourite new beauty buys – perfect for packing in your festival bag

L’ERBOLARIO

SUN CREAM WITH GOLDEN PALM OIL SPF50, £20.50 For ultimate protection while out in the sun, look no further than this nourishing sun cream.

The high SPF is perfect for those with fair skin, while the palm oil offers anti-ageing protection.

The cream is easy to apply and contains liquid Jojoba wax to moisturise as well as protect.

Available from 106A Upper Street, London, N1 1QN

DERMALOGICA

SOLAR DEFENSE BOOSTER SPF50, £38.90 Formulated without artificial fragrances and colours, this high SPF product gives you the chance to customise your favourite makeup and creams. Just add a few drops to your foundation or moisturiser for critical UVA and UVB defense.

A great space-saver that works with a multitude of products.

Available from www.dermalogica.co.uk

BARE MINERALS

POP OF PASSION BLUSH BALM, £20 This multitasking new beauty favourite from Bareminerals is perfect for your festival makeup bag. As well as hydrating the skin, the creamy blush can be used on the lips as well as the cheeks.

Available in three shades, it gives a healthy glow while nourishing.

Available from www.bareminerals.co.uk

LA ROCHE-POSAY

REDERMIC R EYES, £24.50 You might be lacking in sleep after a few days of festival fun, but no-one need know with this handy new formula. Containing a combination of pure Retinol, Retinol booster and caffeine, crow’s feet are smoothed, dark circles and bags are reduced, and eyes are left refreshed and radiant.

Available from www.boots.com

ST TROPEZ

IN SHOWER GRADUAL TAN, £14.50 With a waiting list before it was even launched and recommendations from celebrities like Kate Moss, this is the world’s first in-shower tanning lotion. Just apply to wet skin, wait three minutes and shower off – it’s that simple. Perfect for festival-goers looking to get glam while camping.

Available from www.sttropeztan.co.uk

BUMBLE & BUMBLE

SURF INFUSION SPRAY 100ML, £21.50 Designed to give a less matte texture than the Bumble & Bumble Surf Spray, this mellow mix of tropical oils and texturizing sea salts creates soft, sea-tossed waves with sheen. Perfect for don’t care festival hair, just spray and leave for a gorgeous, summery tousled look.

Available from www.bumbleandbumble.co.uk

MURAD

INVISIBLUR PROTECTING SHIELD 30ML, £55 This space saving summer hero treats visible signs of ageing, blurs imperfections, protects with invisible SPF protection, primes skin for makeup application and hydrates skin.

Combining SPF30 with key ingredients such as mucor miehei peptides, spend more time by the main stage and less time applying products with this handy primer.

Available from www.murad.co.uk

BOBBI BROWN

FACE MIST, £21.50 While we all know gulping water in the sun is good for us, your skin needs rehydrating too. For instantly refreshed and hydrated skin with a healthy glow, look no further than this facial mist from Bobbi Brown.

Use over or under makeup or on its own throughout the day to soothe and refresh – you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Available from www.bobbibrown.co.uk

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EXPERT OPINION

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE ON YOUR HEALTH, BEAUTY AND WELLBEING

KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY

THIS INVOLVES:

Mr Sam Rajaratnam is a consultant orthopaedic surgeon at the Horder Centre in Crowborough. The Horder Centre welcomes Private and NHS patients and is renowned for its high quality orthopaedic care and excellent outcomes

• A comprehensive pre-operative meeting with a consultant who specialises in knee surgery to help with their understanding of the process • Excellent verbal and written information to ensure the patient is fully prepared • Optimising the patient’s health and

OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE knee is a very

design allows an excellent range of motion

fitness prior to surgery i.e. nutritional

common cause of knee pain; the feeling of the

once the patient has fully recovered. Most

state, exercise programme and minimising

knee ‘giving way’ and swelling. While

patients are able to mobilise safely within a

any medical conditions

conservative treatment including pain killers,

couple of days of their joint replacement.

• Use of the latest high flexion knee implants

steroid or cartilage protein injections and physiotherapy can be helpful in the early stages, most people with

It is very important that the patient continues to exercise their knee after discharge home. The overall

during surgery • Care from an expert theatre team that implant hundreds of knee replacements

Osteoarthritis

patient satisfaction rate of a well

annually with excellent results

of the knee will eventually

done joint replacement with a

• Use of an advanced anaesthetic technique

require knee replacement

rapid recovery programme is in

to optimise pain control after surgery. Local

surgery. Depending on which

the region of 94%, with the

anaesthetic is used to infiltrate the tissues so that

part of the knee is worn will determine which types of symptoms an individual will feel.

Knee replacement surgery has advanced

majority of patients being able to walk long distances, play golf,

the patient is not in pain immediately after surgery • A co-ordinated post-operative, early

cycle, swim and lead an active

rehabilitation programme involving the surgeon,

lifestyle and a life without pain. Knee

nurses and physiotherapists (using state-of-the-

tremendously over the last 30 years and is now

replacements are also lasting longer as

art gym facilities available at The Horder Centre)

one of the most successful operations

per the National Joint Registry, with the

• The most important factor in the enhanced

performed throughout the world. The National

majority lasting greater than 15 to 20 years.

recovery programme following a knee

Joint Registry recorded 69,703 knee joint

resurfacing/replacement procedure is a

As techniques and processes have

replacement procedures performed in England in

developed, expert centres throughout the UK

motivated patient who is keen to exercise

2014. In years gone by, the replacement itself

have seen improved results of the modern

their knee, as this will give the best outcome

formed a hinge to the knee joint, but modern

knee replacement through the Enhanced

following surgery

knee replacements are surface replacements

Recovery Programme. The Horder Centre

only. They work by removing the arthritic surface

is a leader in enhanced recovery following

Mr Sam Rajaratnam is a consultant

of the knee and capping it with an artificial

knee replacement surgery and the best

orthopaedic surgeon and a nationally

surface. It is custom fitted to the patient’s

results are gained by careful surgery and

recognised knee specialist.

anatomy by an expert surgeon.

a streamlined approach to the pre and

Visit www.horderhealthcare.co.uk

post-operative rehabilitation.

or www.britishorthopaedics.com

Modern high flexion knee replacement

KNEE WITH OSTEOARTHRITIS

KNEE WITH REPLACED CARTILAGE

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GETTING THE BALANCE RIGHT

From wellbeing to mindfulness, how do we strike a balance?

Abi Jackson finds out…

‘YOU’RE PERFECT AS you are... Eat

wellbeing membership scheme that

well, exercise and meditate for your own

originated in Europe. Members pay

enjoyment and enhancement.’ Isn’t that

a monthly fee and, through an online

a great philosophy?

community, get access to hundreds

The fitness and wellbeing world is full of

of fitness classes, as well as things like

mottos and maxims that, while on the

meditation and nutrition workshops.

surface are meant to be motivational,

The aim isn’t only to give members more

can sometimes be anything but.

choice and access for their money, but

Take all those ‘fitspo’ feeds on social

to nurture a holistic approach to living.

media telling us to ‘go hard or go home’, or

If holistic sounds a bit hippy-dippy, don’t

implying that being fit means rock-hard abs

let that put you off. It basically just means

and looking good in teeny-tiny Lycra. What

balance, looking at the whole picture,

if you can’t really ‘go hard’, but do still

rather than individual components – and

fancy doing some exercise? What if you’ve

that makes a lot of sense.

no realistic desire to ‘achieve’ Instagram-

For example, if you’ve prioritised work to

worthy stomach muscles, but do, as it

the extent that you’re not getting any decent

happens, really enjoy working out?

sleep and are constantly run down and

We’re all different – we have different

anxious, you might have a big ‘tick’ in the

goals, different interests, different strengths

career box, but the whole picture probably

and limits – and that’s OK.

isn’t that rosy. Or if you’ve taken your

The point is, we can all still benefit from

healthy-eating regime to such extremes

taking care of ourselves, doing things that

that you can no longer socialise with your

are good for us and that make us happy,

friends, is it really that good for you?

and we all have the right – and responsibility

Balance is far more achievable than

– to do that. How that looks won’t be the

perfection, and chances are your life will

same for everybody – and that’s what I love

be more joyful as a result too.

about the philosophy above.

Somuchmore recently launched in London,

These are words I heard at the UK launch of Somuchmore (somuchmore.co.uk), a

and they’re hoping it’ll roll out across

SOMUCHMORE CO-FOUNDER JOHANNES KLOSE SHARES SOME PEARLS OF WISDOM. How do you propose to get the most out of life and living by ignoring an aspect of your personal being? We are animals who have evolved over time and instinctively had to use all elements of our being to survive. To neglect any part of our persona is detrimental to our general wellbeing, and sanity.

We believe eternal happiness stems from revealing, identifying and enhancing your true potential in life.

The definition of success can mean many things to many people. Yes, some people still rank their success by their pay check, or the new car they’ve just bought, or even the amount of designer clothes they have. But strip them of their consumerist trophies and they have nothing. What really matters is how you feel about yourself, and how your life affects those around you.

If you are content that you radiate happiness internally and externally, then to us you have found ‘success’.

Once you are at one with yourself, you are at one with the universe.

It’s the internal seeking and profound understanding of who you are, and the greater good of the world around you, that humbles humankind and restores a sense of contentment in your daily life.

the UK in the future.

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THE LOOK

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THE LOOK

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EXPERT OPINION

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE ON YOUR HEALTH, BEAUTY AND WELLBEING

GOLFER’S ELBOW Golfer’s elbow is a similar condition to tennis elbow but causes pain on the inside of the arm. It is caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons that bend the fingers and wrist.

TRIGGER FINGER OR TRIGGER THUMB This is a condition of the tendons in the hand.

When the finger or thumb is bent towards the palm it gets stuck and it can lock or catch. This is called triggering. It is caused by the tendon getting stuck as it enters a

TENDING TO TENDONS

fibrous tunnel in the finger. A lump may be felt at the base of the finger or thumb.

Mr Richard Benson, Consultant Shoulder and Upper Limb Surgeon at the Spire Tunbridge Wells Hospital has a special interest in tendon problems TENDONS ATTACH MUSCLES to

bones and this enables the muscles to pull the bone. In the upper limb, the result is movement of our arms and hands.

Tendon problems in the

SHOULDER IMPINGEMENT The most common cause of

BICEPS TENDONITIS The biceps tendon can cause pain, or even rupture at its shoulder or elbow insertion.

If the biceps tendon tears, the shape of the biceps muscle may change. It can either hang high or low depending on where it has torn.

shoulder pain is caused by the tendons which wrap around

There are several different ways of

the shoulder joint. These are

managing tendon problems. These include

called the rotator cuff

rest, anti-inflammatory medications, steroid

arm are very common,

tendons. These tendons help

injections, babotage (needling the tendon),

particularly in people between

the shoulder ball to stay in its

physiotherapy and surgery. It is very

the ages of 35 and 70.

Unfortunately, as tendons age they can begin to wear down and

socket when the arm is lifted. If they are not working well, pain is felt in the shoulder. This typically

important to be given the correct diagnosis.

For tears of the tendon, early operative treatment is often very important.

this can cause pain. Sometimes tendons tear

occurs when the arm is lifted halfway up to

which can also cause weakness.

the top of its movement. A tendon tear may

Mr Benson holds clinics at the Spire

result in being unable to lift the arm.

Tunbridge Wells Hospital on Friday

Tendon problems have an impact on our daily activities, including problems with sleep and at work.

There are several tendon conditions in the

TENNIS ELBOW

afternoons. For more information or to book an appointment,

This is a condition which causes pain on the

please contact us on 01892 741 150.

arm and hand. The most common of these are

outside of the elbow. It is often caused by

*Mr Benson has carried out international

shoulder impingement, tennis elbow, golfer’s

overuse of the muscles and tendons which

award winning research into the causes

elbow, trigger finger and biceps tendonitis.

straighten the wrist and fingers.

of tendon failure at Oxford University.

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LIFE & STYLE

We look at some of the best ways to enhance your home and lifestyle this month

E-CONOMIC BOOM FOR E-BIKING

Peter Marlow Peter Marlow is opening a new practice in counselling and psychotherapy for adults in Tunbridge Wells. The practice offers both shortterm counselling and longer-term therapy to help work through emotional issues that can otherwise affect mental and physical health, relationships and livelihood. As well as being highly qualified and with a wide experience in therapy, he has also had a successful career in management, which gives him additional insight into the implications of workplace stress on individuals, their friends and families.

Initial consultations and assessments are free and some evening and weekend sessions may be arranged.

For more information, call 07707 994 269 or 0800 881 5253. Alternatively, email peter@petermarlowtherapy.co.uk or visit www.petermarlowtherapy.co.uk

This year sees popularity and sales of electric bikes soar.

Indications are that 2015 is set to be the year of the e-bike, as popularity of powered assisted cycling goes mainstream.

“The electric bike market in the UK is growing fast,” says Matt Flanagan, managing director at E-Bikes Direct, a 10-year-old local business that is Britain’s largest online supplier of e-cycles.

His company grew by a third in 2014 alone, with sales across the entire range of electric bikes increasing significantly.

“The growth is driven in part by demand from entry-level cyclists wanting to get into the saddle.

The motor gives a helping hand when needed, either on steep inclines and long rides, or is useful for those wanting to use a bike to improve their stamina.”

According to Flanagan, cost is another important factor. “The bottom end of the market is exploding as new technology improves performance and lowers prices. We supply general purpose e-bikes for less than £700, which customers find affordable – especially as entry-level models like the Green Edge have components typically found on bikes costing nearer £900.”

What is clear is that e-bikes are proving a popular choice for cyclists across the spectrum. Whether used for an occasional leisure ride, for travelling to

work or for improving fitness, electric cycles have come of age and there’s no sign of them losing steam any time soon.

If you’d like to know more about E-Bikes Direct, please call 01580 830 959 or visit www.e-bikesdirect.co.uk

Kent Mobility

Kent Mobility is a family-run, family-owned business based in Tonbridge, Kent, which has been providing mobility and lifestyle solutions in the southeast for more than three decades. The company is an approved supplier for the NHS and Social Services, but also offers a wide range of equipment and products for the private buyer. Time has been taken to select only the best equipment, so Kent Mobility offers the most comprehensive range of manual and powered wheelchairs, scooters, wheelchair seating, ramp installation and general mobility aids.

As well as selling online and in its showroom, Kent Mobility also offers consultation and home installation services.

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Showroom 6 Sanderson Way, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1QG Tel: 01732 770 998 Fax: 01732 355 174 Email: sales@kentmobility.co.uk

Service Centre and Head Office Unit 1, Bridge Farm, Upper Haysden Lane, Tonbridge, Kent TN11 8AA Tel: 01732 770 251 Fax: 01732 360 231 Email: info@kentmobility.co.uk

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OAK DESIGNS So, it’s time to upgrade that shabby garage to something more functional. Perhaps you want to make an informed choice for the environment too. Green Oak is an incredible material to work with; when the frames are assembled and pegged together, the timber continues to contract, tightening the joints to give a superbly strong structure. Oak works harmoniously with the environment, absorbing CO² from the atmosphere with the added benefit of its beauty increasing with age. Providing the oak is F.S.C and P.E.F.C certified – you can also rest assured that the oak is from a sustainable source.

Unit 3/The Oak Framing Yard/Spithurst Road, Lewes, East Sussex BN8 5ED 01273 400 411 www.oakdesigns.org

The Bell Inn

The Bell in Ticehurst is proud to announce the inaugural Rosemary Lane Day Guitar and Folk Festival – a unique event inspired by the musicianship, songwriting and enduring legacy of Bert Jansch, his patronage of The Bell and his time in Ticehurst.

ALISSA ANDERSEN

On August 22 2015, we’re bringing a fleet of folk talent back to The Bell for one day of performance, musicianship and tall tales. This is a day of music from acts that reflect

The Coachworks

deep historical roots and look forward through

A new development of apartments aimed

experimentation and reinvention. We’ll have stories and

at a discerning older clientele offers an

songs – some old, some new.

opportunity to live right in the heart of

The lineup includes Bonnie Dobson, Trembling Bells, Jon Allen, Polly and the Billets Doux,

Ticehurst in East Sussex, named one of

The Princes in the Tower, The Bert Jansch Foundation Scholarship performance, Lily

‘Best Places to Live’ by The Sunday Times

Denning, Noisy Toys, The Ballad of the Bell, guitar lessons, workshops and much more.

in 2014.

Adult tickets start at £15 plus booking fee from www.eventbrite.co.uk

The Coachworks offers 25 spacious

High Street, Ticehurst, East Sussex TN5 7AS

apartments, with generously proportioned

01580 200 234

and beautifully designed shared areas.

www.thebellinticehurst.com

Each has outside space, a patio, balcony or roof terrace, and two modern bathrooms with one en-suite. An assisted

PALULO INDIVIDUAL HOMEWARE, GIFTS AND MORE… Designing and making items that are not just stylish, but also useful, has always been behind the products Palulo design and make, as has craftsmanship and the use of fine materials. Palulo’s new homeware collections have been created to allow you to mix and match designs and colours that will fit into any style of home, from country through retro and vintage, to modern, contemporary interiors. All are individually hand painted and finished to give exclusive, individual pieces.

To see Palulo’s latest collections and shop, visit their online store at www.palulo.co.uk

living environment, The Coachworks also has an onsite concierge service, so that residents can be sure of support when they need it.

What makes The Coachworks really exciting is its location in Ticehurst, within reach of the wider attractions of the area, including Dane Hill Golf Course, Bewl Water and Pashley Manor Gardens – all a short drive away. An award winning pub, The Bell in Ticehurst, is much nearer, and you can leave the car at home!

High Street, Ticehurst, East Sussex TN5 7EX 01580 200 557/07975 783 593 www.coachworksticehurst.co.uk

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EXCLUSIVE WEDDING & ENGAGEMENT RINGS

FURRER JACOT

MARK ADAM Untitled-18 2

68 High Street, Tunbridge Wells TNl 1YB 01892 616617 www.markadam.co.uk Open Tues - Sat 10.00 - 5.30pm

22/07/2015 15:37

WONDERFUL WEALDEN

WEDDINGS

DREAMY DRESSES

From laid-back lace to stunning silk, it’s our pick of the best boho bridal gowns

FINISHING TOUCHES

The little things that make a big difference to your special day

SOMETHING DIFFERENT

How to find alternative venues for your unique wedding

THE WEDDING PLANNER

HEAVENLY HAIR

Tips for tousled tresses so you can recreate that relaxed look

EXCLUSIVE VENUES

Tie the knot in one of these stunning locations

LOVE LETTERS

It’s not all wedded bliss for our secret bride-to-be

THE HOUSE MEADOW/MAVERIC PHOTOGRAPHY

How to stay prepared and stress-free in the lead up to your nuptials

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DOMINIC WALMSLEY

ref!e'!/

00MINic'S LATEST. ONE OF A KIND. CREATION WAS INSPIRED BY BLUE WHITE GLACIAL ICE. AN 18CT WHITE GOLD RING SET WITH DIAMONDS. SAPPHIRES AND TOPAZ.

£2.700

3 THE SQ!JARE • RIVERHEAD www.dominicwalmsley.com MADE IN LONDON

01732 779 555

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you to focus on the finer details, like decorations and accessories for the day, bridesmaid dresses and your groom’s suit.

This is also the time to get booking – if you’re planning to have your hair and makeup done on the day, book these now.

The same goes for securing a wedding car and a hotel for the night of your wedding.

It’s also time to think past the wedding to the honeymoon and start making arrangements for that too.

THREE MONTHS TO GO Your guests should all have the date firmly in their diaries, but now’s the time to make it official by sending out your invites.

Allow guests enough time to RSVP but THE HOUSE MEADOW / KERRY ANN DUFFY

also bear in mind that until you have their confirmation you won’t be able to firm up numbers and complete table plans.

TWO MONTHS TO GO As the wedding gets closer there’s lots to confirm. Choose your ceremony music, finalise your menu choices and speak to your suppliers to confirm everything is in place.

It’s also a good time to have your hair trial and start thinking about a beauty regime. Begin having pedicures so your

WEDDING PLANNER

feet are ready for the day, and if you’re having a spray tan it’s a good idea to book

Your go-to guide to get you from ‘yes’ to ‘I do’…

in a practice one first.

ONE MONTH TO GO

AFTER THE PROPOSAL

months before the wedding is also a good

Obviously the most important thing to

Getting engaged is overwhelming and

time to start thinking about dresses. Finding

focus on is the hen and stag parties, but

exciting in equal measures, so for a few

‘the one’ can take a while and boutiques

also book in a final dress fitting where you

weeks don’t stress about getting things

have limited weekend appointments, so

can try on your shoes and accessories.

sorted. If you’re really keen to start

there’s no harm in getting organised and

Give your venue copies of supplier

planning, set up a Pinterest board for

booking a try-on session.

contracts a month before too.

of wedding you’d like and what time of

9 MONTHS TO GO

TWO WEEKS TO GO

year you’d like to get married. It’s also a

If you’ve managed to find and book a

Write a list of photographs you’d like on

good idea to set a budget and have chats

venue then this a good time to send your

the day and give it to your photographer. If

with family members who might be

guests ‘save the date’ cards to let them

you can, meet them at your venue so you

contributing to the cost.

know about your impending nuptials.

can run through everything with them. If

initial ideas and start discussing the type

At this stage you may be overwhelmed

you’re jetting off straight after your

ONE YEAR TO GO

by websites, bridal magazines and lists. To

wedding, begin packing now so it’s not a

This is the ideal time to start making some

see the bigger picture, book to go along to

stress on the day.

of the bigger decisions about your

a wedding fair. This will give you a great

wedding. Write a provisional guest list so

idea of what’s available from cakes,

WEDDING WEEK

you have an idea of numbers, as the

caterers, bands and photographers. Plus,

This week will be busy but try to relax!

length of your list will determine the type

many exhibitors have discounted rates for

Have some beauty treatments booked so

and size of venue you go for. Once you’ve

brides booking on the day.

you’re ready for the big day, confirm the

got an idea, book appointments to see

final details with your venue and

venues. Also bear in mind that you may

6 MONTHS TO GO

need to book a registrar and arrange a

Now hopefully the bigger elements of the

setting up completed. Then, have a glass

wedding license.

wedding, such as your venue, caterer and

of wine and an early night before your

dress are all sorted, which makes way for

day commences…

Although it might seem too early, 12

suppliers and get any DIY projects and

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FINISHING TOUCHES So, you’ve sorted the rings, tried on the dress and booked the venue – but what about those added extras that help bring your wedding to life? We take a look at some of the final flourishes that you won’t want to miss when planning your big day

True Blue Ceremonies Independent celebrant Katie Keen helps

that is special to them.

True Blue Ceremonies bookings this year

couples have a very personal wedding day with one of her bespoke wedding

include weddings taking place in rustic

ceremonies. She loves being able to tell a

barns, quaint village halls, the gardens of

unique love story at each wedding she

family homes, festival wedding sites, a fruit

conducts, and thrives on the positive and

farm and private woodland, as well as

generous feedback she receives from her

some of the more typical wedding venues.

couples and their families afterwards.

Most couples opt for a modern twist on a

Many couples choose a beautifully

traditional wedding, perhaps enhanced by

meaningful and memorable celebrant

hand fasting, or a unity ceremony.

led ceremony as an alternative to a civil

Hurst Villas, Howland Road, Marden,

or religious marriage service, which

Tonbridge, Kent TN12 9HF

enables them to hold their wedding

01622 832 829

completely outdoors or in any place

www.trueblueceremonies.co.uk

Anna Wynne Harpist You will remember the romance of your wedding day for the rest of your lives.

Why not enhance your memories with the beauty and tranquillity of the harp?

Anna has a wide range of repertoire, including light classical, contemporary popular, jazz and show tunes. Anna regularly performs at functions around the UK, and has played for the Prime Minister, Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, the Lord Mayor and the Mayor of London. A unique and beautiful addition to any wedding.

07798 794 654 www.annawynne.com enquiries@annawynne.com

Peter Jenner Jewellery Maker and Designer Established beneath the picturesque ‘Musick Gallery’ on The Pantiles in 1980 and specialising in commissions in platinum, palladium and gold, our shop is our workshop. Offering an excellent design service, we are qualified diamond and coloured stone specialists, and use state-of-the-art technology combined with over 45 years’ experience in the best traditional, handmade methods.

Come and see our new and exciting range of diamond engagement rings, beautifully crafted to the finest quality. We are also experts in individually designing and making wedding and eternity rings to perfectly complement existing rings.

We stock a varied selection of contemporary designs by Peter and other designers, including award-winning silver collections. For commissions, please ring first – we look forward to seeing you!

43 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TE 01892 521 796 www.peterjenner.com

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Blooming Perfect Flower Design Blooming Perfect Flower Design are independent florists, located just outside of Tunbridge Wells in the quaint village of Groombridge, accessible to all surrounding villages. The shop is filled with seasonal flowers and plants, and often locally grown, organic varieties during the summer months.

They specialise in wedding and event flower design, with many years’ experience working in some of the most beautiful venues in and around the South East. They create a whole range of flower designs, from bridal bouquets and delicate buttonholes, through to table centrepieces, including delicate table posies and large, elegant candelabras, creating the perfect setting for every wedding.

With extensive portfolios of previous work and fantastic reviews from lots of happy clients, it’s worth booking a consultation (call 01892 860 305) at their lovely shop to talk through your wedding flower requirements. Open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 3pm (Thursday and Fridays from 9am to 5pm). Consultations by appointment only, or take a look at their online brochure.

The Black & White Shop, The Green, Groombridge, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 9QH 01892 860 305 www.bloomingperefect.co.uk

Old London Bus

Southern Photo Booth

Why a bus for transporting you, your dad

Do you want an event to remember?

and your bridesmaids to your ceremony?

Whether it’s a wedding, graduation,

Nostalgia is a powerful tool to impress.

school prom/ball, bar mitzvah, birthday,

With up to 72 seats, your guests may

corporate or any other event, the photo

be transported to the church, reception

booth is the must-have party extra. Our

and back to the car parking

stylish, portable photo booths are a

arrangement efficiently.

unique way to add something different

Our 56-seat buses are from 1949 and 1952,

to your event; it’s guaranteed to be a

the style used in the film Summer Holiday in

winner and keeps everyone talking about

the 1960s with Sir Cliff Richard, and come

it long aftert. We aim to make everyone

with a crew, driver and conductor in original

who visits one of our photo booths

What About The Kids is a new local

London Transport uniform and with an LT

have an unforgettable experience.

company founded by Ellie Ryan in

ticket machine to issue tickets to all your

With our packages, your guests will

Tunbridge Wells, providing hire of stylish

guests. The other buses will come with

be amused for hours.

and high-quality toys and furniture,

smart, uniformed crew.

Call Southern Photo Booth on

What About The Kids

specifically to keep kids entertained at

We have been operating under the

weddings, birthdays and other parties,

Government’s regulations as a registered

allowing the grownup guests to relax

bus operator and we are fully insured. Our

and truly enjoy the event.

drivers are fully qualified with a Certificate of

There are plenty of suppliers of bouncy

01580 850 201 or visit www.southernphotobooth.co.uk

Professional Competence, as well as their

castles, soft play equipment and activity

driving licences. We do hope you will

packs, but a clear lack of choice. While

choose us to make your wedding day very

the time, effort and investment that

special indeed.

typically goes into making adult areas,

Linnet House, Hawkhurst, Kent TN18 4AX

especially at weddings, look beautiful,

01580 754 253/07721 335 500

there is nothing to provide a kids’ corner

www.oldlondonbus.co.uk

that rivals the same effect.

What About The Kids addresses this need, providing the kid guests with plenty to do and explore, while carefully achieving the desired theme and style of the event, ordered online, to include delivery and collection. The range includes tepees, dressing up – which can be themed – easels, vintage armchairs, tables and chairs and much more.

07932 729 362 www.whataboutthekids.co.uk ellie@whataboutthekids.co.uk

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FROUFROU 2015 EVENTS DIARY

NOW AT OUR LUXURY NEW LOCATION - 8a Chapel Place Tunbridge Wells Kent TN1 1 YQ

FR8 UFROU BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 01892 541381 www.froufroubride.co. uk Untitled-18 2

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BOHO BRIDES

Dreamy dresses for wonderful whimsical weddings

GRACE LOVES LACE

Valentina dress, $2,200 AUD Ships internationally. www.graceloveslace.com

CATHERINE DEANE

Abigail gown, £2,895 www.pantilesbride.com

LAMBERT CREATIONS

Marquee dress, £1,200 www.modebridal.co.uk

SARAH SEVEN

Nolita gown, POA www.froufroubride.co.uk

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WEDDINGS

JENNY PACKHAM

Billie, £3,320 www.pantilesbride.com

TEMPERLEY LONDON

Fiona dress, £14,500 27 Bruton St, London W1J 6QN, Telephone – 0207 313 4756 72

CHARLIE BREAR

Marielle dress, £1,930 www.froufroubride.co.uk

FREE PEOPLE

Lillian gown, £2,668 www.freepeople.com

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23/07/2015 12:12

Since 1997

34 THE PANTILES, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT (SO MINUTES FROM LONDON CHARING CROSS)

01892 514 515 WWW.PANTILESBRIDE.COM

DESIGNER DAYS 2015

SASSI HOLFORD 19 SEPTEMBER HAVE A PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH SASSI

CATHERINE DEANE 16 & 17 OCTOBER NEW FOR THIS SEASON

-

NNYPACKHAM 2&30CTOBER VIEW THE 2016 COLLECTION

IANSTUAR~ 23 & 24 OCTOBER VIEW THE RUNWAY REBEL COLLECTION ANDIMEET IAN

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SUZANNE NEVILLE 20NOVEMBER HAVEAP RSONAL CONSULTATION WITH SUZANNE

SUNDAY SAMPLE SALES CHECK THE WEBSITE AND FACEBOOK FOR SALE DATES WHEN DESIGNER GOWNS ARE REDUCED BY UP TO 50%.

Appointments for all events necessary including sale.

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ADVERTORIAL

BEAUTIFUL BOHO BRIDES Making your hair look fabulous is essential when posing for those all-important wedding photos. To help you make the most of the ever-popular ‘bohemian’ look, three top local salons tell us how to achieve the perfect style

The Gallery 63-67 London Road, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 0PA Lorenzo Colangelo, Creative Director At the multi-award winning Gallery Hair and Beauty, we have had the pleasure of styling weddings up and down the country, from smart, sleek and sophisticated to understated, natural and relaxed. Personally, I love the Boho bride. Nearly all style mood boards will contain at least one relaxed and textured style that captures the fun and natural side of the bride.

Plaits, braids and wavy, tousled hair can produce such a romantic image when created with care and with the right products. We deliver an in-depth consultation that is designed for brides to disclose their image fantasies for their big day.

Floral head dresses and hair vines are great for accessorising a Boho hair do. Inspired by celebrity weddings such as Poppy Delevingne’s Moroccan themed, dreamy wedding last year, brides are often opting for bare feet and a floral crown rather than a tiara and Jimmy Choos!

For your big day, allow our special bridal team to magic away your worries and look after all of your hair and makeup needs. Sit back and relax in our exclusive bridal lounge, or allow us to come to you and get ready in the comfort of your own home. Contact the team to discuss your hair and beauty requirements today.

01892 514 900 www.thegalleryhairandbeauty.co.uk - Salon of the Year 2014 in the National Hairdressing Business Awards - Current finalists for Salon of the Year 2015 and Customer Care in the National Hairdressing Business Awards - Current finalists in Salon Business Awards for Salon Team of the Year 2015

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Morgan Hodges 52 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TN Greg Morgan and Natasha Hodges, Partners BOHO AT MOHO Timeless. Beautiful. Natural. Three key concepts for Morgan Hodges when we created our Bohemian Bride look. And here’s how you can recreate the same look at home.

We prepped our model Phoebe’s hair with Oribe Balm d’Or Heat Styling Shield and Hair Plumping Mousse. Use these or similar products and blow dry your hair to a smooth finish with a large round brush. Use a large curling iron on random sections of your hair, securing them with pin curl clips as you work around your head.

Let your hair cool for 30 minutes, remove the clips and run your hands through to break up the curls for a natural look. We added a braid to one side and entwined the headpiece through it to complete the look: Boho with a contemporary twist.

‘Boho Bride’ has a timelessness that suits every free-spirited woman, regardless of age. Natural and not too structured, it will flatter your face and outfit throughout the day and look beautiful in every photograph.

Pop by and meet the team at Morgan Hodges and let us advise you and support your own ideas for your wedding hair.

For our Boho Bride image we teamed up with photographer Claudine Sinnett and The Pantiles Bride Boutique.

01892 539 203 www.morganhodgeshair.com - 10% off all services to Privilege Club holders - Join us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ morganhodgeshair

Revive Hairdressing 83A St Johns Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 9TU Krissy Scotton, Director Hot this summer is Boho! Whether it’s for a vintage or beach wedding, this dynamic style can suit any theme. Personally I love to make the hair a real feature while complementing the all-important dress!

No matter what length your hair is, the natural, messy look is easily achieved.

Using a combination of curls and a nice chunky plait across the front looks fab on long hair. You have the option to put it into a nice bun and then play about with it to make it look messy. I use a good pair of curling tongs to create fab curls! For short hair, messy plaits with subtle curls is a great look and some real hair extensions clipped into the back can help achieve the perfect look.

Wedding hair needs to stay perfect all day long, so using a good hairspray is key! I have only ever found one hairspray that doesn’t make your hair look and feel crispy: Davines’ Invisible Spray. The spray will not only hold just as long as any other spray, but you wouldn’t even know you had it on. Using a good shine spray gives you a great finish, helping it stand out in those very important photos.

01892 539 004 www.revivehairdressing.co.uk AUGUST 2 0 1 5

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THE SECRET DIARY OF A BRIDE TO BE Is a hen do really necessary?

M

ost newly engaged brides-to-be

bridesmaid – but the hen do is another

decided to book a holiday halfway through

should be grinning from ear to ear

beast entirely. Despite the fact that we

the hen weekend.

and flashing their bling to anyone

began planning it a good eight months

Just when we thought all was sorted and

within a 50mile radius while simultaneously

ago, we’re still in perilous danger of

all money was paid, another member of the

scouring Pinterest for inspiration. Sadly, I

spending the weekend playing ‘I-spy’ in a

group cancelled. I believe rather than being

am not one of these brides. Right now, I am

McDonald’s car park.

sympathetic, my words were “oh well, we’ll use your money for cocktails.”

trying to compile a hen do playlist, confirm

It began with such promise. We three

taxi pick up points and work out whether I

bridesmaids gathered together to make

have enough bottles of wine to pacify a

plans, spending weeks devising the perfect

will to live rapidly evaporating, I’m already

group of seven women for a weekend.

itinerary before sharing our ideas with the

beginning to dread my future nuptials. My

rest of the group. At which point half of

friends have begun asking me what I’d like

a bride-to-be who’s about to be someone

them decided they were busy that

to do for my hen do, and haven’t reacted

else’s bridesmaid.

weekend. Sorry, but I barely know what

kindly when I’ve suggested spending a

I’m doing tomorrow; how do you have

weekend in a silent, dark cave.

No, I’m not jumping the gun, I’m actually

Once you get engaged, people are very keen to hear your plans. They want to know when, where and how. They even want to

plans in your diary that far ahead?

Anyway, with our now much depleted

With the hen do fast approaching and my

When all this is over and I begin focusing on my own plans, I do wonder if I should

know if you’ll be arriving in a Jaguar or

group we soldiered on, booking

scrap both bridesmaids and a hen do. After

having delphiniums. Sadly, I do not have

experiences, badgering people for

all, if you really liked someone would you

the answers to any of their questions,

deposits, coughing up ourselves when

needlessly put them through the stress of

because in the weeks since I was proposed

nobody else was forthcoming with cash

trying to order silk flower heads from China

to, I have spent my time tearing my hair out

and between us we hatched a plan. Then,

with which to fabricate headbands?

over my friend’s wedding.

one of the bridesmaids went AWOL,

Next month, find out how our secret bride

stating that she was ‘busy’. Then, she

is getting on with finding her dream venue…

Don’t get me wrong, I’m excited to be a

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HEYER

CASTLE

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Offering three award winning venues for ceremonies and receptions in the heart of Kent

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WEDDINGS

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Tip #2 – Define ‘DIY’ While many hotel and stately home weddings will have all-inclusive packages, you may find that when it comes to booking a farm or field for your big day you’ll be required to hire in everything from the tables to the toilets. Ask your venue exactly what’s included in the price and also whether they have any add-on options to save you having to source elements yourself. Before committing to a venue add everything together to ensure that the added extras such as lighting or marquee hire won’t push you over your budget.

Tip #3 - Get organised While the venue will offer a certain amount of support, it’s unlikely a wedding

THE HOUSE MEADOW / KERRY ANN DUFFY

co-ordinator will be included in the price, which means you’ll need to factor in the time to get everything set up and decorated before the wedding day. You may also need to liaise with all of your suppliers and the caterers to ensure everything is ready and that things like the bar will be staffed on the day.

Tip #4 – Ask around If none of the venues you’ve found are what you’re looking for, don’t despair.

HAVING A FIELD DAY

Around these parts there are lots of beautiful fields and farms, and while they might not be geared up to do a wedding

From whimsical woodland weddings to field or farm affairs, here’s how to discover beautiful venues for your boho-inspired big day…

every weekend, there’s no harm in contacting the owners to see if they’ll allow you to hold your reception in their grounds. Also ask friends and family or put a call out on Twitter – you’ll be surprised how many people know

Nowadays, with so much choice available

Tip #1 – Search photographer sites

to them when it comes to their big day,

Sometimes finding the lesser-known venues

Tip 5# Move quickly

many couples are looking for a more

can prove tricky when you’re starting your

Unlike larger wedding venues who can

rustic, bespoke day where they have full

search, but don’t despair if Googling

accommodate many weddings a year,

control over the elements of their

‘Wealden barn wedding’ brings you no luck.

places like barns and farms are often

wedding. But where do you start looking

Many wedding photographers post ‘real

limited on how many bookings they can

for the venue of your dreams, especially if

wedding’ features on their sites, so you can

take. Don’t be surprised if there’s a long

what you’ve envisaged is a dilapidated

see where they’ve shot before. By taking a

wait or limited availability over a year in

barn or a woodland clearing? Here are our

look at their sites you’re sure to find a list of

advance of your intended date. If you find

top tips for finding ‘the one’...

venues you’d never even considered.

somewhere you love, get in there quick!

Pinterest has a lot to answer for.

someone with a woodland or barn.

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PJ3 reathtakingly different. ..

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TO DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENTS PLEASE CALL

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A venue with charm and elegance, exquisite cuisine, true quality of service and attention to detail.

01732 897 436 East Malling, Kent MEi9 6DZ enquiries@bradbournehousekent.co.uk www.bradbournehouseweddings.co.uk

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WEDDINGS

THE PERFECT SETTING Finding the right venue is essential to getting your wedding just right and is often the first thing on many newly engaged couples’ to-do lists. From enchanting backdrops to unforgettable photo opportunities, we explore some options that are sure to capture the magic of your big day

Hever Castle The charming castle at Hever has a rich and varied history, dating back more than 700 years. The romantic double moated, 13th century castle was once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. Today, its splendid panelled rooms contain fine antique furniture, tapestries and a unique collection of Tudor portraits.

There are two rooms within Hever Castle that can be hired for weddings, The Inner Hall and The Dining Hall.

For more information, please contact our events team.

Hever Road, Hever, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG 01732 865 224

www.hevercastle.co.uk

The Cooden Beach Hotel Like the idea of a beachside wedding, but going abroad isn’t really an option? The answer may be a lot closer than you think.

The Cooden Beach Hotel in the East Sussex town of Bexhill-on-Sea is situated directly on the beach. Licenced to hold wedding ceremonies outside, it’s just a few steps from the Sussex shingle beach and will give you all you’re looking for a lot nearer home.

As a 41-bedroom hotel, there will be options for your guests if they choose to stay overnight. A free 60-space car park and situation next to Cooden Beach train station will make travel options easy for all.

The dedicated wedding team is highly experienced and works hard to ensure your day flows seamlessly, providing many treasured memories of a wonderful day.

Wedding packages provide excellent value for money, but if they don’t match your desires then a bespoke wedding is no problem.

Contact a member of the wedding team on 01424 842 281 or email sales@thecoodenbeachhotel.co.uk for a wedding pack and ‘no obligation’ appointment.

The Cooden Beach Hotel Cooden Sea Road, Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex TN39 4TT 01424 846 142 www.thecoodenbeachhotel.co.uk

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Salomons Estate There can be few better places to celebrate your big

Salomons Estate offers a choice of four

day than the magnificent Salomons Estate, one of

fabulous function rooms for your big day, each

Kent’s most popular wedding venues. Situated just

with elegantly hand painted ceilings and

two miles outside the Georgian spa town of Royal

lovingly restored period features. Our licence

Tunbridge Wells, Salomons Estate is a stunning

covers each of these rooms, meaning we can

Victorian mansion originally designed by Decimus

accommodate wedding parties of between 20

Burton, set in 36 rolling acres of gardens, parkland and

and 200 guests.

woods, yet within an hour’s travel of Central London.

Salomons Estate

There are many settings to choose from in

Broomhill Road, Southborough,

acres of beautiful grounds, but a particular

Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 0TG

London Golf Club

favourite is on the bridge over the lily pond. Come

01892 515 152

London Golf Club is one

summer or winter, our views are outstanding, and

reservations@salomons-estate.com

of the few Kent wedding

with full access to the grounds, you will have the

www.salomons-estate.com

venues located on the beautiful North Downs,

perfect photo opportunities on your doorstep.

providing a picturesque and private venue for your special day.

Set in the heart of 700 acres, our clubhouse is approached from the gatehouse by the impressive one-mile driveway – a real ‘wow’ factor right from the start.

With stunning views over the lakes, manicured fairways and a backdrop overlooking our two championship golf courses, your photographer will be spoiled for choice.

In a world where the

The Spa Hotel

flexibility and exclusivity,

The Spa is nestled within 14

ensuring our wedding

brochure, contact our events

London Golf Club continues

acres of pretty gardens and

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provides the perfect backdrop

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evening on Thursday August 20

service, including your

with views over the lakes,

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between 5.30pm and 7.30pm.

own dedicated wedding

is licensed for outdoor

refurbished private rooms

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catering for smaller, more

for those wanting to combine

with both planning and

intimate celebrations.

their hen celebrations with

overseeing your special

some pre-wedding

day from start to finish.

Here at The Spa, we offer

To receive our wedding

Our Spa Hen Break is perfect

pampering. This break

finest details matter,

co-ordinator to assist you

The venue is easily

includes sandwiches on

accessible, offering ample

arrival, two spa treatments,

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helipad available for use

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people sharing.

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Dale Hill The peifect venue set in an area ef "Outstanding Beauty'~ Dale Hill is a supreme wedding venue with a host ef surprising and special touches that really add to thatfairy-tale aura efyour special day.

Your Bridal Party will receive a warm, professional and friendly welcome to this exceptional hotel by our experienced wedding co-ordinator James McTrusty, who will be on hand to guide you through your special day with attention to every detail ensuring your day seamlessly flows, with memories that last forever.

Civil wedding ceremonies can be planned on-site, we offer traditional as well as same sex marriages.

Award winning cuisine will be tailored to your individual requirements for the wedding breakfast with mouth-watering inspirational choices.

Our Dale Hill Suite has panoramic views across the Weald and accommodates Weddings and Banquets up to 160 guests and a maximum of 200 guests for evening receptions.

With Wedding Packages for 2015 starting at just ÂŁ2015 we can tailor a package to suit everyone.

Dale Hill Hotel and Golf Club Ticehurst, Wadhurst, East Sussex, TN5 7DQ 01580 200112 I weddings@dalehill.co. uk www.dalehill.co. uk

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Wedding Packages starting from ÂŁ51 per person Or tailor made packages to suit your taste and budget!

For more details, please visit our website - www.chgc.co. uk For a full information pack or to discuss your wedding reception please contact Val Wimhurst on 0208 657 5581 Croham Road, South Croydon, CR2 7HJ (please note we are also happy to discuss parties and other events)

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ounlams Country House

Weddings and ceremonies at Mountains Mountains is a Grade II listed country house surrounded by 26 acres of historic parkland and steeped in history with its magnificent redwood and ancient oak trees. The beautiful Victorian house is full of vintage charm of bygone years and is the perfect setting for the drinks reception and ceremony as well as for smaller weddings.

The permanent luxurious marquee can accommodate wedding receptions for up to 200 guests. The great advantage of having your wedding reception in the marquee is that the bar, dance floor and light, ambient dining area are contained in one space, thus ensuring that your guests stay together at all times for a great party in the evening. We have created a bespoke package which includes everything you need for a perfect wedding reception.

Further details are available on our website.

For more information or to make an appointment to view, please contact us: T. 01732 832222 E.enquiries@mountainsevents.co.uk Noble Tree Road, Hildenborough, Kent, TN11 8ND

www.mountainscountryhouse.co.uk

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PETER JENNER Jewellery maker

designer

Over 45 years creating individual, beautifully designed and expertly made engagement, wedding and eternity rings. Certificated diamonds.

- come direct to the craftsman Specialist in Fine Hand Made jewellery 43 The Pantiles Tunbridge Wells 01892 521796 www.peterjenner.com

PEMBURY BEAUTY SALON Your Unique Beauty Wedding Package All Under One Roof

• • • • • •

BE BEAUTIFUL. YOU.

Hair • Pre-wedding face & skin treatments Make-up • Acne & scar treatments Lashes • Mesotherapy Facials Tanning • Semi-permanent make-up HD Brows Acrylic Nails & Gellux Polish

25 to 29 High Street Pem ury TN24PH

01892 822879 92

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STUART KIRK / TENTERDEN PHOTOGRAPHY

TENTERDEN

WE VISIT TENTERDEN From steam railways to star appearances, we pay a visit to Tenterden to discover what makes this jewel shine…

KNOWN AS THE ‘jewel of the Weald,’

Tenterden, which nestles right in the heart of the Weald of Kent has a rich history. Named as one of the Cinque Ports in the 13th century, the town was once an important place for wool trading. Back then, it had easy links to the sea at Smallhythe – an area which is now lush green fields and vineyards.

In 1449 Tenterden was incorporated into the Confederation of Cinque Ports as an extension of Rye and ships built at Smallhythe were then used to assist the town against French raiders.

One of the most historic landmarks in the town is St Mildred’s church.

Thought to have been built in around 1180, the church was consequently developed over several centuries, with the north arcade of the chancel built in around 1200, but most of the chancel, nave and aisles were created in the 13th to 15th centuries. The tower of the church, a prominent Kentish landmark, is thought to have been built by architect Thomas Stanley.

Tenterden has an authentic charm

and much of the town remains unchanged, with few modern developments spoiling the picturesque High Street. The tree-lined main road boasts boutiques, cafés and homeware stores and there’s never a time of year when the town isn’t buzzing. Come Christmas with its many festive shopping events Tenterden is the place to go to find unique gifts, while in the summer months it’s perfect for sourcing everything from antique picnic hampers to wedding outfits.

One thing the town has an abundance of is eateries and hostelries. Enjoy an alfresco lunch and watch the world go by in one of the pavement cafes, or spend an evening being wined and dined in one of its many restaurants.

There are flavours from all over the world to cater for all tastes, including Indian, Italian, Chinese and even Turkish eateries. Four pubs sit in the centre of the town, where craft beers, locally produced food and boutique accommodation can all be found.

While the town has something of an

exclusive feel, this could be down to the list of prestigious names associated with Tenterden. Nowadays, celebrity sightings aren’t uncommon, with the likes of Denise Van Outen, Vic Reeves and Dr Who’s Tom Baker often seen strolling the streets, as well as past sightings of Robbie Williams and Gwen Stefani, but there are also plenty of other people of note who were born and bred in the town.

In 1422, it’s believed that William Caxton, the first English person to work as a printer and the first to introduce a printing press into England was born in Tenterden.

Actress Dame Ellen Terry, who was once the leading Shakespearean actress in Britain was also a Tenterden resident, living in Smallhythe Place which is now owned by the National Trust. Continuing with theatre, Sir Donald Sinden, famed for his stage and television acting as well as his literary works lived in the town for most of his adult life until he sadly passed away in 2014. The town’s theatre, situated on

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TENTERDEN

the grounds of Homewood School was named after the BAFTA winner when it was opened in 2004.

While bus is now the main transport connection available to visitors wishing to come to the town, this wasn’t always the case. After years of rejected plans to put a railway into the town, in 1896, proposals were approved to construct a railway from Robertsbridge on the TonbridgeHastings line to Tenterden. The station, now known as Rolvenden was opened in 1900, and further plans and contruction led to the opening of Tenterden Town station in 1903.

The railway remained a popular mode of transport for many years until it was closed to passengers in 1954 due to increase in traffic and a loss of custom. However, it had become a local treasure and soon after its closure, a society was formed with the object of preserving the line. In lengthy legal battles some parts of the line were dropped from plans, but in 1973 the charity were granted ownership and restoration work began. In 1974 the first two miles at Tenterden were reopened, with extensions to Wittersham Road,

94

Northiam and Bodiam following. In 2000 the work was completed and the Kent and East Sussex Railway (KESR) now operates steam and diesel engines between Tenterden and Bodiam for tourists to enjoy.

Throughout the calendar year, Tenterden has many celebrations which draw in crowds from around the Weald.

For almost a decade, Tentertainment, a large free music festival has been held on the recreation ground in July. Originally a one day event, the festival now spans three days with huge acts like Coco and the Butterfields and Jamie Johnson headlining the main stage, while the umbrella stage showcases emerging talent. As well as the music, food and drink plays a big part in the celebration, with refreshments in the form of local wines, beers and even sausages.

While many towns go into hibernation come autumn, this is the time when Tenterden’s entertainment comes to life. October sees much merriment in the form of the Folk Festival, while November and December are filled with festive events, from craft fayres to the Christmas Festival, where there’s a market, late night shopping and the big light switch on.

As well as festivals, shops and eateries, Tenterden also has many tourist attractions waiting to be discovered. The Tenterden Museum is filled with artefacts and information on the history of the town, while to spot some of its historic landmarks, visitors can follow the heritage trail.

Just two miles away in Smallhythe lies Chapel Down vineyard, the biggest producer of English wine in the UK and the Rare Breeds Centre is just a stones throw away in Woodchurch.

For the sport lover there’s plenty of activities to indulge in, with several golf courses in the town, fishing at Tenterden Trout Waters, walking and

cycle trails and horse riding. The town has successful local cricket and football clubs and also a thriving women’s netball team. Tenterden Leisure Centre, which was officially opened by Diana Princess of Wales in 1990 has many facilities for both visitors and locals. As well as a swimming pool, the centre comprises of a gym, sports hall, tennis courts and a bowling green.

Just a few minutes in the tranquil and picturesque setting of Tenterden will show why this small town is considered the jewel of the weald.

There is a joke among residents that once you move to Tenterden, you never leave, but perhaps that’s no bad thing?

LEWIS J BROCKWAY

SO

TOWN COUNCILLOR SUE FERGUSON TALKS TENTERDEN “Tenterden has a very attractive High Street with pretty houses, lots of independent shops, pubs and restaurants, lovely wide tree-lined grass verges, a beautiful 11th century church, a fascinating museum, many beautifully restored steam trains, a large recreation ground with an impressive children’s play area and all surrounded by glorious countryside, formal gardens and rolling vineyards.

There are activities and events galore.

It’s great for business too; we have a thriving Chamber of Commerce, superfast broadband and good mobile coverage. Tenterden must be one of the most perfect places to live and visit. It certainly has every reason to declare itself ‘The jewel of the Weald’.”

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EX RERIE N

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SOCIAL These are the pages in the magazine where we focus on events and happenings across the area. If you would like your special occasion to be featured just let us know at cbond@onemediauk.co.uk

LET US TENTERTAIN YOU Thousands of music lovers flocked to Tenterden to see the likes of Coco and the Butterfields and Jamie Johnson headline this year’s Tentertainment festival. The annual music event, which was held over three days was packed with locals enjoying food, drink and an eclectic mix of musical talent. “I think a lot of people who don’t come to Tenterden as often as they’d like have come back especially for this,” says BBC Radio Kent’s Adam Dowling (pictured bottom right) who compered the event. “I think this is the biggest and best Tentertainment so far.”

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ALL THE NEWS THAT MATTERS, LOCAL, NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL

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A unique mix of local, national and international news Collect your FREE weekly newspaper every Wednesday from newsagents, train stations, supermarkets and independent retailers within a 10-mile radius of Tunbridge Wells Or sign up for your digital version via www.timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

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SOCIAL PLAYING DRESS UP To celebrate the launch of Martine Watson, aka Miss Kay Seamstress’ new shop on Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, guests were invited to enjoy an exclusive afternoon of bridal decadence. Martine, who has worked for Isabella Grace since it opened and now has her own alterations boutique, invited brides, locals and the team from Isabella Grace for an afternoon of fizz and fun as she demonstrated her seamstress skills. “I always hope, on meeting a new bride, that by listening carefully and offering advice I can help her achieve her dream of the perfect gown for her special day,” Martine says. www.misskayseamstress.co.uk Photos by Sam Yardley

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St Julians Club LAN eXCLUSIVE PRIVATE 0'v[EMBERS' (LUE A secret hideaway in the Weald of Kent, St Julians is an elegant Georgian country house just outside of Sevenoaks. Surrounded by woodland and landscaped gardens with breath-taking views across the rolling countryside, St Julians is an exceptional venue for your event.

Our beautiful listed rooms leading to a flagstone terrace are the perfect setting for music and drinks. St Julians suits dinner parties, charity balls and informal birthday parties of 10 to 150.

Let us help you make your wedding ceremony and reception even more unforgettable. Visit our website for further information.

LA U1'(ff2YE VENJ!E 'BESPOKE PLANNING & EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

IN A UNPARALLELED SETTING 01732 458261 • INFO@STJULIANS.CO.UK • WWW.STJULIANS.CO.UK

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SOCIAL TRAINING GROUND Hundreds of real ale fans headed to the Kent and East Sussex Railway in Tenterden for a weekend of beer sampling and trainspotting when they held their annual CAMRA festival. As well as boarding steam trains and travelling between Tenterden and Bodiam, visitors also tried local drinks, watched Morris dancers perform and enjoyed live music from a variety of entertainers. Rail enthusiasts were also given the chance to chat to train drivers and engineers about their work on the locomotives.

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T

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grierson publi cati ons RANI POKHARI

BHAKTAPUR SKY

THIRST

SWYAMBHUNATH STUPA SKY

Grierson Publications is incredibly proud to be supporting and showcasing the exquisite work of Nepalese artist NB Gurung, especially in the aftermath of the terrible earthquakes to hit this incredible country. NB, together with fellow artists from the International Watercolor Society of Nepal, has been working hard to help his fellow countrymen at this terrible time. We salute them.

Artist Gurung and Grierson Publications go back a long way, and Annie recognised NB's talents many years ago. We have undertaken many projects together and post-earthquake all we at GP can say is that it has unleashed the artist's talents and insights even more - if this is possible. Indeed most of the scenes of World Heritage sites are no longer standing which makes his originals and prints even more poignant.

Predominantly a watercolourist NB has had his art showcased around the world. His originals are outstanding mainly depicting scenes of his beloved Nepal, also portraits with a difference. Many of his original paintings are of Nepal pre-earthquake. One pictured here is of Bhaktapur, a district of Kathmandu, post-earthquake.

All originals (framed and unframed) are available for sale and to view.

Grierson Publication's Giclee prints of NB's originals are of a quality second to none.

Please do visit our lovely space in Cran brook, or for more information visit www.nbgurungart.com

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SOCIAL A FINE TIME Burrells Jewellers in Tunbridge Wells held an exclusive evening recently to celebrate the launch of a new timepiece. The Tudor watches, fresh from their recent premiere at the Basel launch were showcased in store, while guests chatted over drinks and canapĂŠs. Among those in attendance was explorer Ranulph Fiennes, who gave a fascinating talk on his adventures in some of the most remote inhospitable places on Earth. www.burrellsjewellers.co.uk Photos by Craig Matthews

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#summerfun

JURASSIC FRIDAYS 11 .30am , 1pm , 2.30pm & 4pm

5 AUGUST

26 AUGUST

WEIRD SCIENCE SHOW WITH DR WH O LOOKALIKES 1 lam , lpm & 3pm

STAR WARS FUN DAY 11.30am, 1pm , 2.30pm & 4pm

FIND OUT MORE AT ROYALVICTORIAPLACE.COM All events are FREE and may be subject to change or cancellation w ithout prior notice. Spac e s are limited on a first come , first served basis so please arrive early to avoid d isappointment. Events are performed by lookalikes and no infringement o f copyright is intended.

ROYAL VICTORIA PLACE TUNBRIDGE WELLS Untitled-6 2

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SOCIAL THE BIG REUNION To celebrate the school’s centenary year, over 250 former pupils gathered at Beechwood Sacred Heart, in Tunbridge Wells for an evening of reminiscing.

As well as watching a video link-up with classmates living abroad, the school’s alumni also listened to a talk by guest speaker and 1970s head girl Alex Martens.

Guests were invited to sign a memory book, which has been buried in a time capsule until 2065. “This has obviously unearthed a lot of memories and re-kindled many friendships,” says headmaster Aaron Lennon. “That spirit of celebration has been a rich part of school life over the past 100 years, and we want it to continue into the 21st century.”

Photos by Craig Matthews

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PHOTO SHOOT A monthly roundup of socials and other events across our part of the world

CRAIG MATTHEWS

On one of the warmest evenings of the year, law firm Cripps invited clients and contacts to an evening of champagne and canapĂŠs at the Spa Hotel, Tunbridge Wells.

The firm, which has offices in Tunbridge Wells, Kings Hill, Sandwich and London, was celebrating its most successful year to date and, said partner Myles McIntosh who hosted the evening, they wanted to thank people for their support as well as welcoming Vanda James who most recently joined its growing family team as a senior consultant.

BEAUTY LAUNCH New beauty and cosmetic surgery clinic Bella Vou celebrated in style when they held an exclusive launch party. The clinic, which recently opened its doors on The Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells, saw guests enjoy a glass of fizz and canapĂŠs while they discovered what the clinic has to offer. During the evening, visitors explored the new facilities, before viewing a presentation led by Roger Bigwood, owner and business developer for the clinic and Amir Nakhdjevani (pictured above), consultant plastic surgeon on how surgery has changed to become less invasive. www.bellavou.co.uk

woodland sounds Music lovers flocked to Bedgebury Pinetum in Goudhurst for an evening of entertainment, when not one but two singing stars took to the stage as part of the Forest live concerts. After an acoustic warm-up set from singer Alfie Connor, Rae Morris performed a selection of her biggest hits including Under the Shadows and Love Again. Finally, headline act Tom Odell took to the stage to perform a range of new songs as well as wowing the crowd with tunes from his bestselling album Long Way Down. The audience sang and danced all evening as they watched the sun set over the forest.

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CHIC SHOP Local fashion brand Chic Hangers London, founded by Kent born designer Sophie Stirk, held a debut pop-up shop recently in Juliets, Tunbridge Wells. The exclusive one-day launch party was an ideal opportunity to showcase the Summer 2015 capsule collection and proved very popular with local ladies who snapped up multiple pieces of the chic clothing. The pop up shop, adorned with flowers, complimentary cake and discount off purchases made on the day, was a great success.

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GARDEN PARTY

STUART KIRK, TENTERDEN PHOTOGRAPHY

Visitors to Tenterden Garden Centre were treated to an evening of food, music and entertainment during their summer open evening. Guests enjoyed jazz from talented local band Otis Lift while sipping wine and sampling delectable barbeque treats and tasty chutney. Then, it was time to pose for the zany mobile photo booth, courtesy of Zenzero Events whose stilt-walker greeted guests as they arrived. Those who had any energy left partook in an adult activity trail around the centre, plus a little late night shopping, making the most of those one-off discounts. They also enjoyed a delicious twocourse meal in the restaurant. www.tenterdengc.co.uk

OPEN DAY Two fabulous country gardens in Biddenden opened their gates to the public for an afternoon of flowers, food and fun, as well as fundraising for Hospice in the Weald. After admiring the beautiful blooms, visitors spent the day indulging in cream teas, shopping at stalls selling locally crafted items and admiring animals in animal corner. “This is the sixth year that we have opened our gardens and we love it,” says one of the organisers, Fiona Chapman.

“We enjoy meeting new people and it’s our way of raising money for a wonderful cause and sharing our passion for gardening and country life.”

NEED FOR SPEED

The Kent area of the Ferrari Owners club of Great Britain held its 25th Anniversary Ball in aid of their chosen charity Abigail’s Footsteps at the Thistle Hotel Brands Hatch. 212 members and guests enjoyed a champagne reception sponsored by Foskers Ferrari specialists, followed by a three course meal and entertainment from international Abba tribute band Fabba Girls, vocalist Vicky Nolan and the VC dance group. Comedian Russ Williams, conducted the auction which raised over £12,000 for the charity.

Capel Capers Residents of Capel had a fun-filled afternoon when they held their annual fete. It got under way with a procession through the village, led by a combine harvester from Whetstead farm, before activities including a tug of war competition and a medieval knights tournament took place on the recreation ground. There was plenty of music and dancing too, with the Pembury 20 Piece Ukele Band and the Kits Coty Morris Dancers performing throughout the day.

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MATCH UPDATES losses of the campaign and we therefore move rapidly on…

CAPEL One exciting fixture was against West Kent Police. Capel has never beaten WKP, but when their innings started, for a brief while it looked as if history could be made.

Opening bowlers Dan Stronell and Rocky Grice kept the visitors’ run rate down to 19 in the first 7 overs and when Dan bowled Stewart for 6 runs in the 7th over and Cook was dismissed by Rocky for 19 in the

We find out what our six local teams have been up to this month…

10th over with a modest total of 33 on the board, hopes were raised that more wickets would follow.

Unfortunately for us, WKP were powerful

BELLS YEW GREEN

their 40 overs, with Alan Parry scoring a

in batting and the score began to rise

This month we really turned our season

boisterous 79, 16 year-old keeper Jake

rapidly. After drinks and speculation that

around with three wins out of four.

Wood, 35 (his highest score so far) and

WKP brought their own supply of Irn-Bru

Although we lost against Ickenham, our

Sam Marshall, also 16, an entertaining 24.

(other energy drinks are available), 6s and

other fixtures were a success.

LPCC were bowled out for 191, with three

4s were hit all round the ground and, to

wickets apiece for James Walkling and

cut a long and by now depressing account

Jordan Austin.

short, the visitors finished their innings

Against Ashford we kept the league front runners to 162 - 4 after some tight fielding. We then seemed to chase this

In the game against Marden, on a

with 363 runs – the highest score on

comfortably with a 50 from Becky

scorching hot day, KCC made 271- 8, with

Capel’s ground since the club was

Steptowe and strong contributions from

Walkling smashing the ball to distant parts

reformed five years ago.

Sarah Martins and Hannah Lautch.

for 92, doing damage next door! Grahame

Credit cannot be denied to WKP, worthy

This month we also took on Finchley,

Wood bashed 74 and Derek Usher supported

winners whose strong batting and bowling

where choosing to field first, we bowled

with a refined 46! In reply, Marden scored an

line up, team work and well-drilled fielding

them out for 161 on a miserable afternoon

obdurate 211- 8, with Bob Pettit and Alan

made them formidable opponents.

at Borderers. Once again we convincingly

Parry taking 3 wickets apiece.

chased this down with significant contributions from Sophie Bowen, Sam

42 points ahead of the 2nd place team with 10 games left…

wright, Hannah Lautch and Sarah Martins.

STONE-IN-OXNEY Unfortunately, our game against Meopham was called off due to rain, but the next

NEWENDEN

went ahead as planned, away against

HADLOW

First up was an intriguing battle against

Sheldwich CC, where Stone made 159 all

The season has warmed up a bit on and off

Tenterden who can boast 3 teams, 10 times

out. Despite some early wickets Sheldwich

the field with all three teams starting to

the Newenden population and a Waitrose.

got the total with relative ease in the 30th

win games and progress in the respective

They brought their 1st team and our 10

over with the loss of 3 wickets.

leagues. The Saturday 1st X1 remain above

men outfit restricted them to a miserly 168,

the relegation zone in Division 1 after

which we knocked off with overs to spare, a

Street End CC. Stone batted first and made

defeating Four Elms. The Saturday 2s had

very fine scalp! Our next fixture is always a

198 with a great 45 not out from Patrick

a very good win last time out against

firm club favourite (due to the sumptuous

Watsham and a nicely played 39 from Jay

Kilndown & Lamberhurst – one of the

pre game lunch) as the club’s Chairman

Parker. Again despite some good bowling

stronger teams in that Division.

Jeremey Hosking amasses a rabble of

and tight fielding Street End got to the

Londoners to do battle. They put our

total in the 35th over.

After the huge success of our recent

The next league game was at home to

country fair we’re hoping to attract more

bowlers to the sword and we were swiftly

We won our fifth league game against

social members, supporters and players to

looking down the barrel of a 275 target for

Bapchild CC, making 208 with a brilliant

our wonderful ground.

victory. Thanks to a 150 run stand between

96 from Owen Piper. We were high in

the young Piper brothers (Jasper posting

spirits and looking forward to our next

KEMSING

his debut ton in the process) we reached

fixture against Harvel CC. Unfortunately

With eight games played, we’re still top,

our total with 5 balls to spare, to round off

this was also cancelled because of rain,

with maximum points (160).

another ale soaked sunny afternoon. The

which was frustrating after a week of

Against Linton Park, KCC amassed 250 in

last two fixtures featured our 3rd and 4th

30°c temperatures!

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SO

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L U X U R Y T R AV E L

LIFE’S A BEACH IN

BALI

T

he sun is setting over the clifftop Uluwatu Temple and a huge white monkey is taking aim at a ring of fire balls, kicking them one by one into the air as an increasingly alarmed audience looks on. But they needn’t worry. There’s not a hint of animal cruelty here.

The mischievous primate is actually a human dancer playing the part of Hanoman, the magical monkey sent to rescue goddess Sita from the clutches of the evil Ravana, in a traditional Kecak Dance performance.

With a choir chanting rhythmically against the backdrop of a stunning sunset, it’s a breath-taking way to start my trip to Bali.

Known as the Island of the Gods, the Indonesian province famously practises Balinese Hinduism. But it’s not just religious beliefs that give this place such a heavenly status. Several luxurious resorts offer visitors an opportunity to worship the beautiful natural surroundings, making Bali a beach destination to rival the likes of the Maldives and the Seychelles.

I’m staying at The Mulia, an uberluxe resort in Nusa Dua on the southern tip of the island, which was voted best beach resort in the world by glossy magazine Conde Nast Traveler USA last year. Rooms range from stunning suites with terraces and hot tubs, to secluded private villas with

butler service, and I’m lucky enough to be staying in the latter. At first, British politeness takes hold and I daren’t ask my butler for anything, but I’m surprised at how quickly I get used to the VIP treatment.

The resort overlooks a picture-perfect private beach where the waves lap ever so gently on the white sand shore. The pools are equally picturesque, so I spend my first few days horizontal on a sun lounger and develop a mild addiction to coconut juice, supped from a freshly cut green fruit.

The property sprawls over a gently sloping hillside, with the villas, situated at the highest point, offering the most stunning views over neighbouring islands. The resort opened just over two years ago, so the design and decor are modern but still beautifully reflect Indonesian heritage, with sloping roofs and heavy carved wooden doors.

Likewise, the serene spa features the latest treatment technology, but therapists are also trained in Balinese techniques, while the restaurant selection offers the best of Asian cuisine – there are standalone Japanese and Chinese restaurants – as well as flavours from further afield. I’m delighted to discover a sushi buffet at almost every meal (yes, even breakfast) while the allyou-can-eat Sunday brunch, popular with non-residents too, is a global

PA PHOTO / THINKSTOCK PHOTOS

Katie Wright heads to the Island of Gods for a heavensent holiday…

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

It’s heavenly, and costs 60,000 rupiah (about £3). I decide that next time I visit Bali, I’m going to have one every day. I float back to the bus in a blissedout reverie and snooze for our 90-minute drive back to Nusa Dua. However you play it, Bali offers a unique mix of lively towns, Hindu heritage and sunsets so serene they’ll relax even the most stressed out westerner – just as long as you steer clear of those flying balls of fire.

PA PHOTO / THE MULIA

the lush fields. One chilled, homemade lemongrass tea later and I’m feeling as relaxed and refreshed as the Burmese cat snoozing nearby. I tuck into a delicious plate of Nasi Goreng, fried rice with salad and spicy vegetables, just as the heavens open. It may be monsoon season when I visit, but the daily (or mostly nightly) downpours thankfully never interfere with my activities.

With clear skies above once more, I decide to jump on a motorbike taxi and head to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, a leafy park full of macaques and adorable grey monkeys.

I ask an attendant who is handing out pieces of corn if I can have a few and quickly attract the attention of a mummy macaque with a baby clinging to her back. She gingerly takes the corn from my fingers, then scarpers off. A shallow pond seems to be the most popular monkey playground, as the furry friends jump and jostle on the branches above, occasionally landing with a huge splash in the water below.

I could have watched them for hours, but Anto hurries us back into the minibus for our next stop, the bustling Ubud market. I make a beeline for a sign that reads Balinese Massage, having heard the island’s full-body treatment is not to be missed. I spend the next hour being pummelled, prodded and twisted into submission.

FACTS

feast of epic proportions.

If you get itchy feet from too much poolside lounging, I’d recommend spreading your excursions out over a few days, or venturing on foot to some of the island’s hidden beaches.

A lot of tourist attractions in Bali revolve around religion and, on the half-hour drive from Denpasar airport to The Mulia, I lose count of the number of temples we pass. But that’s not all Bali has to offer. Ubud town is the cultural capital of the isle and is filled with beautiful galleries selling artworks depicting scenes from the island. The paddy field landscapes and batik religious depictions are beautiful to browse, but with larger paintings costing up to 30,000 US dollars, they’re a bit out of my price range.

Woodcarving has a long heritage in the region too, dating back to the 14th century, and traditional sculptures are still sold in many of the shops.

By midday, the temperature has topped 30 degrees, so I go in search of some food and lunch. My local guide, Anto, drops me off at the side of a busy road and directs me along a quiet track between two rows of houses.

Within minutes, houses give way to palm trees and the sound of wind chimes signals I’m close to the famous Balinese rice paddies.

I arrive at the Sari Organik restaurant and flop down onto a big cushion at a low table looking out to

SO

� Katie Wright was a guest

of The Mulia & Mulia Villas (www.themulia.com) where rooms are available from £475 per room per night (two adults sharing), including breakfast and afternoon tea (taxes extra).

� Flights from London to

Bali with Garuda Indonesia (www.garuda-indonesia.com) start from £596 in economy and £2,357 in Business Class.

For more great holiday ideas contact Sunways Holidays 5, Station Road, Longfield, Kent DA3 7QD Tel: 01474 704186 www.sunwaysholidays.co.uk

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01474 704 186 enquiries@sunways.co.uk Station Road, Longfield, Kent DA3 70D www.sunwaysholidays.co. uk

1'11 ~tABTA o,-,,CT'째o

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Travel with confidence

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INTERIORS

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1

Going global Bring the festival feeling into your home by giving it a bohemian-style makeover

R

evisiting the Seventies has conjured a fresh approach to the bohemian chic trend. But it’s not just time travel that’s inspired the latest collections; actual travel is at the heart of the look too, with designers venturing back to favourite far-flung haunts through exotic themes. As a result, it’s never been easier to create a ‘well-travelled’ feel at home. All you

2

need to complement these vibrant prints and textiles are some key accessories and a little imagination.

Not to be confused with shabby chic – which is more chintzy and distressed than glam, boho chic is all about texture, colour and pieces with a ‘sense of story’. The detail is in how you blend gorgeous jewel tones with terracotta hues, to create an eclectic space that can be as subtle or daring as you like.

“Patterns have played their part in many trends of late and this summer’s infatuation with boho chic shows how confident we’ve got at bringing these bold and beautiful designs into our home,” says Ian Dykes, founder and director of Voyage Decoration. “What’s great about this stylish take on a bohemian

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look, is its inherent lack of rules; anything goes.”

Indeed, Moroccan styles can be combined with Mexican brights and Indian fabrics with English country garden florals – the more creative clashes the better. Soft furnishings, such as cushions and throws, are perfect for building up a boho vibe and will add a concentrated burst of colour and pattern.

“Use them to adorn sofas, window seats and chairs, to create a visually interesting and tactile display,” advises Dykes. “Once you’ve created this foundation, add another layer, using small decorative accessories and treasures from your travels.”

Along with folk art, glassware and fun statement pieces, feel free to mix the look up with woven baskets or

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something tribal. And don’t forget plants are a great way to bring an air of carefree cool to your scheme, and can be dotted around a room to great effect.

“I love the idea of travelling the world, finding hidden gems on great escapes and bringing back unique, one-off pieces to add charm and character to my home,” says Claire Hornby, creative stylist at Barker & Stonehouse.

“Many furniture designers are finding inspiration in far-flung places and incorporating ethnic fabrics, reclaimed woods from afar and bold prints into their collections.

“You can completely redesign a room, or simply add a hint of exoticism from overseas by using the right accessories,” adds Hornby. “Start with an eye-catching piece and

build your accessories and colour scheme around it. Team with a rich, deep colour on the walls to pull the look together, and bring it to life with an exposed, sanded wood floor for an industrial take on going global. Soften the look with beautiful woven rugs from afar.”

There’s plenty of room in this scheme for your own personal finds, too, so if you’re jetting off this summer, don’t forget to leave some extra room in your suitcase for those rare finds; treasures and brocades from the souk market, carved decos or even a beaded kaftan if you’re feeling free-spirited.

And, if you’re not jetting off overseas any time soon, simply explore the shops at home instead.

6

1. Fabrics on cushions, furniture and footstools, from a selection at oyage Decoration: Key prints include mazurka reza raspberry fabric, £44.50 per metre; Mazurka Oberek fabric, £44.50 per metre www.voyagedecoration.com 2. Leyla plates, £8-£24; Bowl, £9, Oka Direct www.okadirect.com 3. Chandelier pendant lights, from £90, www.re-foundobjects.com 4. Mary Rose TV plasma unit, currently reduced to £499 from £669; Merle set of 3 copper votive bowls, £49, Barker & Stonehouse www.barkerandstonehouse.co.uk 5. Moroccan tea glasses, from £5, www.re-foundobjects.com 6. Feather salad servers, £24, Oliver Bonas www.oliverbonas.com 7. Kiku side table, £995, Oka Direct www.okadirect.com

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INTERIORS

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Festival Furnishings Channel that festival vibe in your home with these bohemian inspired buys

MEXABIENTE E.K

Mexican floral washbasin, £210.50 www.mexambiente-shop.com

KANTHA

Quilt made from vintage saris, £165 www.decoratorsnotebook.co.uk

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Dutch bone sideboard, £351.50 designbotschaft.com

MAJEURS CHESTERFIELD

Map effect clock, £149 www.majeurschesterfield.co.uk

SWEETPEA & WILLOW

Tawny blanket boxes, £473 www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

A LITTLE FURNITURE SHOP

Kilim table stool footstool, £425 www.littlefurnitureshop.co.uk

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INTERIORS

ORCHID FURNITURE

Green crackle lacquer console table, £1,295 www.orchidfurniture.co.uk

TOUCHED INTERIORS

Luxury handcrafted white and lilac artificial flower sphere, £1,794 www.touchedinteriors.co.uk

STRICKMöBEL

THE ORCHARD

Bottle chandelier, £104 www.theorchardhomeandgifts.com

DENNIS CHINAWORKS LTD

Colourful knitted chair, £133 www.guru-shop.de

Tiger month vase, £3,060 www.dennischinaworks.com

RUME

Rume Berners Street sofa, £4,067 www.rume.co.uk

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28th, 29th, 30th, 31st August Opening times: Fri 9am - 5pm, Sat & Sun 9am - 5pm, Bank Holiday Monday 9am - 5pm

At Stone Green Nurseries you will discover that we are passionate about plants. We grow a fantastic range:

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23/07/2015 10:41

GARDENS

SO

Sarah’s sensory experience

This month Emma Davies, who runs the Walled Nursery in Hawkhurst with her husband Monty, celebrates home-grown talent…

F

RHS / SARAH CUTTLE

Glorious Gardens

Hampton Court this year.

resh from my visit to Hampton Court

but it really worked, the plants were absolutely

Flower show, here are my views on our

beautiful and took on a magical quality.

Kent and East Sussex talent and trends

Synaeshesia is a neurological phenomenon

Hampton Court? Well if Chelsea was all about

on display. Sarah Wilson from Galanthus

in which stimulation of one sense leads to an

oranges, particularly Geums and warm tones,

Gardening Services in Catsfield won Gold for

automatic, involuntary experience in a second

Hampton was dominated with cool blues,

her first ever garden, ‘Dialaflight: Synaesthesia

sense. The yurt represented the inside of a

purples and silvers. Just right for the heat we

Garden’. I admit, I was sceptical when Sarah

synaesthete’s head. The conceptual gardens

had! My favourite was the Living Landscapes

first told me of her plans earlier this year.

at Hampton can be pretty off the wall, but

Summer Garden which was beautifully planted

A garden, within a white tent in the heat of

well done to Sarah, our home grown talent

with Silver Artemisia’s, Lemon Verbena,

July….all of the plants would be flat on the

for spreading the word about a relatively

Sages,(all with medicinal properties) and then a

floor, surely?! But no, in fact, my

unknown condition and creating a wonderful

mass of deep blue/purple Salvias dotted with

garden too.

scepticism was blown away

Next, I spotted a lecturer who taught

and in 32 degree heat,

me at Hadlow College, David Carey,

they were standing

So, which trends were emerging from

maroon flowers too.

One garden struck a chord with me; I thought it was very clever and original and

and realised that Hadlow had

that was the Amnesty International garden.

garden as did

created a garden at the show, in

Designed by Frederick Whyte, it won Gold and

fact, they’d won a gold medal and

deservedly so. The striking element was the

entered it. Entered

been awarded ‘best in show’! The

use of yellow flowers. Now, in our nursery and

it? Yes, the garden

garden featured metal structures

within gardening, yellow is a colour that quite

everybody who

RHS

tall! I loved this

was inside a yurt with black curtains

a few folk avoid – it’s certainly not a favourite.

pinks; it was certainly worthy of best

But this garden had many different shades of

in show and a great accolade for our

which you walked through and into a beautiful

and vivid planting of greens and

Yellow Rose

local horticultural college.

yellow flowers, all mixed together. Pale lemon yellow Achilleas, Anthemis, Geum Lady

In the floral marquee, we had Graham from

Strathden and Kniphofias Brimstone; the

flowered plants including frothy Gypsophila,

Plantbase in Lamberhurst with his collection of

result was striking. Yellow is the colour of

Foxgloves and Cosmos mixed with foliage

weird and wonderful plants, Rotherview

Amnesty International.

plants like Melianthus major, spiky Agaves

Nursery from Hastings with their fantastic

I hope this provides you with some

and variegated Pittosporums. But here’s

alpines and succulent troughs, plus

inspiration of your own.

the master stroke, coloured LED lights are

Downderry from Hadlow with their award

Happy gardening,

triggered by words which changed the colour

winning Lavenders. Kent is the garden of

and feel of the garden instantly. Whacky? Yes,

England of course, and we were out in force at

Emma www.thewallednursery.com

mix of planting. Mainly white

AUGUST 2 0 1 5 1 2 9

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23/07/2015 10:57

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Phillip McKnight 132

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22/07/2015 16:36

GARDENS

SO

JUST SO Our series of visits to National Trust gardens continues with Bateman’s, the Burwash home of esteemed writer and family man Rudyard Kipling KNOWN AND LOVED for his works of fiction, writer Rudyard Kipling who penned the likes of The Jungle Book and the Just So Stories was also once the owner of Bateman’s – a Jacobean mansion house, surrounded by the wooded landscape of the Sussex Weald.

Situated in Burwash, the house provided a much needed sanctuary to this world-famous writer from when he purchased the dilapidated farmhouse in 1902 to his death in 1936, when the property had been lovingly restored.

Three years after his passing, wife Caroline also died and the property was bequeathed to the National Trust.

The family home has been kept very much as it was under the Kipling family’s ownership – Rudyard spent much of his life in India and the Eastern influences are apparent. His study, where he composed many of his famous works is as if he has just left for the day – it’s still filled with personal memorabilia, books and pictures.

While the house is certainly a talking point, the 330 acres of land that it boasts is certainly one of Bateman’s main attractions. Kipling chose the house as he believed it was the perfect family home, and his children Elsie and John spent many years running through the sprawling lawns, which are now used by visitors to the property, enjoying the rural setting all year round.

Len Bernamont is Gardens and Estate Manager for Bateman’s, a position he has held for the past two and a half years. He has a long career with the NT and currently manages the gardens and estate of two other properties in Sussex. Since joining Bateman’s, Len has spent much time ensuring the gardens are kept as close to their original format as possible.

“The garden at Bateman’s is still very much as Rudyard Kipling and his family would’ve known it. They had a major influence on the layout which is

still in existence today – planting yew hedges to create privacy and divide the space into garden rooms. Many of the character features are Kipling additions, such as the orchard, pear alley, lily pond and rose garden. These are all aspects of the garden we strive to maintain as close to the original design as possible including replacing plants with the original species where they’re still available. As horticulturalists we’re also very much aware that gardens continually evolve, even within the lifetime of the owners or designers of a historic garden. This allows us the freedom to experiment with new planting ideas, particularly in the Mulberry Garden which, as it was Kipling’s Kitchen Garden, had an ornamental as well as productive use.”

The decision to open National Trust properties to the public all year round is one that has brought with it both trials and prospects for Len and the team at Bateman’s.

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GARDENS

“Being open seven days a week for 363 days of the year is the biggest challenge most Trust gardens will be facing. We now do all our garden maintenance in public view, so sometimes noise from machines can be a problem, but it also gives us more opportunities to engage with visitors and they hopefully gain a much deeper insight into conservation work.”

While the winters can be a challenge; dealing with the flooding in the lower parts of the garden and additional footfall from visitors creating wear and tear, at the moment tending to the gardens for the summer is the main focus for Len. The land may be in full bloom now, but preparations actually begin in February when seeds are sown in the greenhouse for the vegetable patch and summer display in the mulberry garden. This month there’s lots to see and sample from the gardens.

“Now it’s August, our vegetable patch is full and providing our tearoom with regular fresh produce. Our summer displays are all planted, so we will spend a lot of time weeding to keep the beds and borders as tidy as possible, tying in sweet peas, runner beans and continually harvesting produce including the occasional glut of veg which we sell in our shop. We’ll also be deadheading our floribunda roses in the formal garden which produce a continuous display right through summer.”

Many visitors are so inspired by the gardens and variety of horticulture that they want to recreate the look in their own plots. Len is inundated with questions over how they can emulate the Bateman’s feel in their back

gardens. Along with the most frequently asked question; “How did Bateman’s get its name?” which nobody knows, the gardening team are also constantly asked where visitors can buy the plants they see in the grounds.

As a result, they’re now developing a range of plants to sell from their own stock to satisfy demand.

“There’s such a variety of garden and planting styles on show at Bateman’s that there should be something to cater for most sizes of garden and tastes.

Even the smallest gardens can emulate our annual food and flower planting scheme, but the main thing which we hope visitors pick up on is the sense of both calm and fun that reflects the ethos of the Kipling’s who wanted to create a garden to be enjoyed by both family and friends; nothing ostentatious or showy, but a feeling of relaxed formality. Be bold and experiment and have fun whilst you do this and you’ll have a garden that gives you as much enjoyment as Bateman’s does to all who visit.”

Although there are plenty of beautiful parts of the garden, Len does admit he has a favourite – the wild garden.

“For the sheer quantity, variety and length of spring and summer interest, the wild garden is my favourite. From the earliest snowdrops to carpets of Scilla, Snakes-Head Fritillaries and Wood Anemones, Narcissi and Bluebells flowering under the whiteblossomed snowy peaks of Amelanchier and flowering cherries this area of the garden has something to delight all your senses well into summer. Once the Rhododendrons and Azaleas have

finished, the wildflower meadow season begins in earnest. By taking a hay-cut towards the end of summer we encourage a whole range of native species to colonise this space which creates a seamless transition between the garden and hay meadows on the estate beyond.”

When the summer ends, the gardens will be ablaze with autumnal colours and Len believes there’s plenty for visitors to enjoy as the nights draw in.

“As this is such a productive garden, there’s always something we’ve grown for visitors to either taste in the tearoom or take home and they can see all of this growing in the garden. By early autumn we’ll be well into harvesting our orchard fruit with a fine selection of plums, gages and damsons on offer, culminating in the pear and apple harvest with our celebration of all things orchardy during our Apple Day event in October.”

BATEMAN’S Bateman’s Lane, Burwash, East Sussex, TN19 7DS 01435 882 302 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/batemans

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Wealden Country Landcraft For all your design, construction and maintenance requirements, contact:

Adam Sutton BSc (Hons) Environmental Science Tim Playfoot BA (Hons) Garden Design Tel:01892 722699 Adam:07979 362241 Tim:07990 751353 www.playfootgardendesign.co.uk

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Moat Farm ,Whetstead Road, Five Oak Green, Tonbridge TN12 6RR www theceram1cstud10 me uk I rani@theceram1cstud10 me uk I 01892 832901

MILLBROOK STAPLEHURST 12th -16th August

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Ml LLB ROOK GRAVESEND 19th - 31st August

Millbrook Staplehurst

Millbrook Gravesend

A229 Staplehurst Rd, Marden, Tonbridge, Kent TNl 2 9BT

Station Road, Southfleet, Gravesend, Kent DA 13 9PA

01622 832299

01474 331135

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22/07/2015 16:37

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22/07/2015 15:44

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INSTALLATIONS

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Untitled-18 2

22/07/2015 15:45

GARDENS

SO

OUTSIDE INTERESTS DOWN TO EARTH Natural materials – wood and stone – are always a sound choice for a patio, as they look more beautiful as they weather and their colour tones blend into the surroundings.

“The blurring of the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces means that entertaining is no longer confined to one area of the home, and now commonly involves using kitchen, dining and outdoor spaces to create a flow through the home,” says Nicola Gidlow, buyer for outdoor living at John Lewis.

“Furnish this space as you would an indoor room and, ideally, choose colours and prints that echo your indoor scheme. This will unify all the spaces.

If you haven’t got green fingers, a collection of faux trees and plants in pots grouped around the boundary of the patio could delineate the space.”

Marks & Spencer’s dahlia collection, in grey-painted eucalyptus wood, is a winner, combining both style and comfort. Sofa, £599; armchair, £349; coffee table, £179; lounger, £259, and that absolute summer essential, a funky deckchair; tropical floral deck chair, £69.

BOTANICAL KITSCH Whatever the weather, your patio will have a tropical twist with furniture in neon hues and playful accessories.

“This season’s tropical trend has found its way into our gardens, with bold and bright accessories leading the way.

From jewel-hued cushions to colour-pop parasols, these fun additions are a great way to add character and style to al fresco spaces. They can also be mixed and matched with ease,” says Kate Watson, interior designer for furniture specialist Fishpools.

“Choose two ‘key’ colours – and don’t be afraid to be bold – then complement with small splashes of accent colours to add interest.”

TIP: “Remember it’s not the size that matters, it’s what you do with it, when it comes to patios,” says Mr Spencer. “If you’re working with a small area, don’t fill it with too many features, as it can look busy and cluttered. Consider a mirror or water feature to add depth, while lining the edges of a larger garden with shrubs, such as laurel bushes, will make it look more cosy and enclosing.”

TIP: “Consider the amount of time and care you want to give to your garden when you create it,” advises Rated People ambassador and Location, Location, Location presenter Phil Spencer. “Shrubs and conifers add stature and texture, and can be virtually left to their own devices once you’ve prepared the soil. Similarly, weather-proof furniture, which can be left outside, is ideal if you don’t want to get involved in yearly maintenance and haven’t any winter storage.”

Fishpools’ colourful Savona lounger chairs, £25 each, would jazz up a space, as would Oliver Bonas’ Paloma egg hanging chair £350.

Habitat’s a reliable source for funky, colourful pieces, and it doesn’t disappoint with a new Minaji range in easy-care polypropylene.

Their two-seater garden bench, in orange or black, is £395; garden armchair, in green or black, £195 (not pictured).

AUGUST 2 0 1 5

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GPMLConstruction www. gpmlconstruction. co. uk

Established since 1990 with a long track record of varying projects Accredited by the Federation of Master Builders Specialists in extensions, new builds, loft conversions and refurbishments 100% portfolio of customer satisfaction All in-house skilled tradesmen

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23/07/2015 13:40

Are vou sitting on atortuneil We are always on the look out for property with development potential.

If you think your property could be redeveloped, why not give us a call without obligation and in confidence.

Many of our clients retain our services and, in the majority of cases, pay our fees saving property owners significant costs.

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Untitled-18 2

Call us now For regular updates, visit us at ~ twitter.com/sjdprojects Contact Stephen Donnelly on 07739 514350 or 0845 456 8969

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

SECURITY

SO

HOME FRONT

With long, hazy summer days stretching before us and plenty of

month the stunning scenery you’ll see from some of our

free time to enjoy the great outdoors, jetting off to far-flung

properties is sure to rival even a Mauritian sunset. And, if you’re

destinations may be on your mind, but this is also a great time to

looking for something quintessentially British, look no further

look a little closer to home and find your dream property in the

than the fabulous home overlooking a castle.

process. Forget the fuss of flying and the last-minute passport panic;

Whether you’re looking for a space to entertain guests, a house

you could be spending this summer planning your new garden and

with amazing views or somewhere where you can enjoy the best

thinking about entertaining friends in your new kitchen/diner.

of town and country, our selection of beautiful Wealden homes

For many, a house with a view is top of the wishlist, and this

this month is sure to have something to suit every taste.

MARDEN

YALDING

ROBERTSBRIDGE

IGHTHAM

COWDEN

Period farmhouse with

Picturesque views

Re-live history with

Elegant hillside house

Country living with

stables for horse lovers

from a modern setting

stunning castle views

with tennis court

added luxuries

Price: £875,000

Price: £1,195,000

Price: £1,495,000

£1,850,000

Price: £2,000,000

AUGUST 2 0 1 5

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23/07/2015 11:13

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SECURITY

HISTORIC HOUSE WITH STUNNING GROUNDS Travel back in time with a beautiful Grade II listed farmhouse with medieval origins in Withyham THIS DELIGHTFUL OAK framed

room are also arranged across the first

farmhouse is believed to be of medieval

and second floors, all with lovely views

origin with later additions. It has retained

over the grounds.

a wealth of interesting character features,

Located to the west of the main house

such as the elegant multi-paned gothic

is an oast barn, sited far enough away to

windows at the front.

be private, but close enough for ease of

The ground floor is made up of the

use. The current owners converted it into

kitchen/dining room fitted with an

useful additional office space with a

oil-fired Aga, garden room, utility room,

games/leisure room. The rooms are

family room and a more formal drawing

settled over two floors and could easily

room featuring a wide inglenook fireplace

be adapted to your needs.

This beautiful home is surrounded by

with exposed brickwork.

On the first floor, most notably, is the

picturesque farmland and set away from

magnificent ‘solar’ room with an

the road. Nestled between the pretty

impressive vaulted ceiling open to the

villages of Withyham and Groombridge,

rafters. Five bedrooms and a dressing

it’s just 5.4 miles from Tunbridge Wells.

For full details contact Savills • 01892 507 003 • www.savills.co.uk 144

AUGUST 2 0 1 5

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23/07/2015 11:17

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SECURITY

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

SO

PROPERTY: Ham Farmhouse, Grade II listed farmhouse LOCATION: Withyham, East Sussex GUIDE PRICE: ÂŁ1,795,000 BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 3 (2 en suite) LAND: 3.83 acres EXTRAS: Dressing room, cellar, oast barn with: games room, roundel lobby, office, cloakroom, vaulted office, roundel studio, double garage and store room; unconverted stone barn, summerhouse, dog kennel and run, timber greenhouse, brick and stone potting shed BEST BITS: The superb grounds are a haven for wildlife and a stunning outdoor environment for children and animals. With a cottage garden, an orchard, productive kitchen gardens and an enclosed area for the pond, this property is perfect for gardening enthusiasts.

AUGUST 2 0 1 5

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145

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23/07/2015 17:21

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SO

CHARM ON THE HILL

Beautiful grounds are among the delights of a Victorian house in Ightham

PROPERTY: Mulberry Hill, LOCATION: Rectory Lane, Ightham,

BUILT IN THE late Victorian period,

suite bathroom, and a dressing room that

Sevenoaks

Mulberry Hill is an elegant home with

could also be a sixth bedroom. There are

GUIDE PRICE: £1.85m

some very distinguishing features such as

four other double bedrooms on this floor

two beautiful fireplaces, wooden floors and

and two shower rooms.

The house is approached through a

panelled doors.

The main focus of the ground floor is the

five-bar gate onto the sweeping tarmac

spacious drawing room, with a fireplace

drive leading to an expansive parking area

and floor to ceiling windows as well as the

and a detached double garage. Above is a

kitchen/breakfast room, which is fitted with

studio, the perfect place for teens to have a

a two oven Aga, space for table and chairs

games room.

The garden is one of the most delightful

and a larder located close by.

On this floor there is also the

BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 1, 2 shower rooms LAND: About 4.5 acres EXTRAS: Conservatory, boot room, larder, wine store, dressing room, detached double garage, tool shed, stable yard, two paddocks, hard tennis court

features of the house with large expanses

conservatory, dining room, reception hall,

of lawn, plus landscaped herbaceous

BEST BITS: For keen horse riders, there

TV room/snug and utility room.

borders, and a variety of specimen trees.

is a stable yard comprising three timber

The master bedroom on the first floor, is equipped with an exquisite family en

To the side and rear is a lovely York stone terrace.

stables and a tack room with two level fields making up the paddocks.

For full details contact: Strutt and Parker • 01732 459 900 •struttandparker.com AUGUST 2 0 1 5

SO TW_AUGUST15_Property_Strutt&Parker.indd 147

147

23/07/2015 11:25

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SECURITY

BACK TO THE FUTURE Modern life is brought to a period home in Cowden THOUGHT TO HAVE been built in

The master bedroom comprises a

1923 with additions added later, this

large bathroom and dressing room, in

stunning country home is spacious,

addition to plenty of wardrobe space.

well balanced, and spread over three floors.

There are two further bedrooms, one

On entering you will find an impressive

with French doors and a south facing

hallway from which the reception rooms

balcony, plus a family bathroom and

are accessed. The kitchen, which forms

a laundry room.

the ‘hub’ of the house, has a stunning

On the second floor there are two

open plan layout leading to a dining room,

bedroom suites, both with study areas

family room and delightful sitting room,

and bathrooms.

all of which have south facing French

The gardens and grounds are well

doors leading to the garden. At the other

maintained, with a large belt of woodland

end of the house are the study, gym,

as well as plenty of pastureland.

boot room and shower room.

The first floor boasts the master bedroom suite and guest bedrooms.

The property enjoys beautiful views south over the surrounding countryside and Hammer Wood.

For full details contact: Knight Frank • 01892 515 035 • www.knightfrank.com 148

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SECURITY

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

SO

PROPERTY: Coopers Wood LOCATION: Holtye Road, Cowden, Kent GUIDE PRICE: ÂŁ2million BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 3 en suite + family bathroom and shower room LAND: about 37 acres EXTRAS: five-bar gate, double garage, reception hall, wine cellar, detached one bedroom annexe, tennis court BEST BITS: The property benefits from a detached annexe with a bedroom, kitchen/reception room and bathroom.

Attached to this is the double garage.

There is also a hard tennis court located in the grounds to the back of the house.

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149

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Badger Bathrooms Appointed Stockist for the Laura Ashley Bathroom Collection Visit our showroom Badger Bathrooms, 8-9 Tubs Hill Parade, London Road, Sevenoaks TN 13 I DH

01732 464450 www.badgerbath rooms.corn

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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VIEWS FOR A LIFETIME Spend your days taking in the beautiful countryside that surrounds this charmingly open house in Yalding FOSSE BANK HOUSE is a magnificent new build in a traditional style. This

a wet room on this floor.

The first floor is centred around the

PROPERTY: Fosse Bank House (Detached) LOCATION: Vicarage Road, Yalding, Kent

modern delight is given great character

landing with five spacious bedrooms,

PRICE: £1,195,000

with its exposed structural beams, which

three bathrooms, two of which are en

BEDROOMS: 5

stand out against the light walls.

suite, and a first floor lounge. This has a

BATHROOMS: 3, 2 of which are en suite

The ground floor consists of an openplan kitchen/breakfast room with a superb

glass gable end, with doors that open to stunning views of the Greensand Way.

EXTRAS: Open fireplace, spacious patio, detached double garage and plenty off

ceramic tiled floor. Not yet fitted, it gives

The beautiful property is in the middle of

you the opportunity to make this kitchen

an impressive plot and has a five-bar gate

your very own. A sunroom, fitted with

at the entrance. The driveway leads to a

plenty of windows and two glass double

detached double garage, constructed with

BEST BITS: The picturesque views around

doors at the end, leads onto the patio.

attic trusses so if another room is needed

the house mean that the first floor lounge

there’s plenty of space. When it comes to

with its glass gable end, provides the

The sitting room and dining room are

road parking

naturally divided by an open fireplace

the garden, it will be seeded to provide an

that sits in the middle. There is a further

expansive lawn area to complete the look

perfect setting for a bit of quiet time while

reception room, cinema room plus

of this charming home.

taking in the garden and farmland beyond.

For full details contact: Winkworth • 01892 519 600 • www.winkworth.co.uk AUGUST 2 0 1 5

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SO

ENJOY HOME COMFORTS

A beautifully English home for country village living in Penshurst A BEAUTIFUL FAMILY house located in

space a perfect place to keep warm in the

a quiet cul de sac close to the centre of

winter, and during the warmer months the

this quintessential English village.

double glass doors that lead out to the

The kitchen/breakfast room, on the

patio will be ideal for letting in the summer

ground floor, has modern fitted light

breeze. A study/family room and a dining

wood cupboards contrasting the dark

room are also situated on this floor.

marble-look kitchen surfaces and plenty of

Four bedrooms, one master bedroom

seating space. Leading into the

fitted with an en suite, and one bathroom

conservatory there is a comfortable

are arranged throughout the first floor.

seating area and set out behind is a

The house has an expansive garden with

makeshift gym but this room is perfect for

a patio area ideal for summer barbequing

adapting to your needs whatever they are.

and attached to the left of the house is a

The drawing room, on the same floor, is

garage big enough for two cars, with a

furnished with a fireplace making the

utility room located behind.

PROPERTY: Ashlea LOCATION: Penshurst, Kent GUIDE PRICE: £895,000 BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 2 (1 en suite) EXTRAS: Cloakroom, conservatory, large garage, space for parking on the drive.

BEST BITS: Penshurst village lies between two rivers and is home to Penshurst Place and the local church which have both stood for over 600 years.

It also has a public house, tea rooms and cricket pitch.

For full details contact: Alexandre Boyes • 01892 525 522 • www.alexandre-boyes.co.uk AUGUST 2 0 1 5

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BEAUTIFULLY SITUATED RESIDENTIAL FARM BIDDENDEN, KENT Detached period 3 bedroom oast house + detached 4 bedroom bungalow + range of outbuildings+ stables+ barn with 81 use+ about 35 acres+ Biddenden 2.2 miles; Tenterden 3.8 miles + 180 sq m (1,94 7 sq ft) + EPC=D

Savills Cranbrook Patrick Baily pbaily@savills.com

01580 720161 Guide £1 .375 million Freehold

IMPRESSNE AND STYLISHLY APPOINTED CONVERSION GOUDHURST, KENT Stylish and impressive conversion + finished to a high standard + 2 reception rooms + 4 bedrooms + 2 bath/shower rooms + courtyard garden + parking for two cars + Cranbrook School catchment (2015) + EPC=C

Savills Cranbrook James Lloyd jlloyd@savills.com

01580 720161 Guide £875,000 Freehold

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SO

LIVE THE QUIET LIFE

The charm of the past is brought to life in this delightful farmhouse near Marden A PERIOD FARMHOUSE, Tan House

with outstanding views of the

has retained much of its original charm

countryside. There is also a family

including some lovely fireplaces, panelled

bathroom and a separate shower room,

doors, exposed floorboards and dado rails

en suite to the master bedroom,

plus some beautiful polished brick flooring.

available on this floor.

All first floor rooms can be accessed from

The grounds are a particular feature of

the elegant entrance hall. The bright and

this property comprising beautiful

airy sitting room is enhanced by the bay

landscaped grounds and abundantly

window and is accompanied by an open

planted beds and borders filled with colour

fireplace. The kitchen has a real homely

and interest throughout the seasons. At the

farmhouse appeal and has an oil fired Aga

front of the house is a rose-clad archway

and French doors that lead to the garden,

and pathways leading through an

plus generous space for informal and

enchanting parterre garden. There is also a

family dining. There is also a spacious

delightful sitting area where you can relax

utility room and a versatile study/snug.

and enjoy the picturesque views from

The first floor has four double bedrooms

areas of complete peace and seclusion.

PROPERTY: Tan House LOCATION: Dairy Lane, Chainhurst Nr Marden, Kent GUIDE PRICE: £875,000 BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 2 (1 shower room) LAND: 1.5 acres EXTRAS: Oil fired Aga, two stables, extensive grounds and garden area, five-bar gate, plenty off road parking BEST BITS: For horse lovers, there are two timber stables incorporating a tack room with a power and water connection. There is a five bar gate at the front of the property leading to a substantial parking area and the fenced paddock is clearly visible from here with gated access to the driveway and stables.

For full details contact: Jackson-Stops & Staff • 01892 521 700 • www.jackson-stops.co.uk AUGUST 2 0 1 5

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SECURITY

CASTLE VIEWS Bring the past to life with this beautiful Grade II listed country house in Ewhurst Green with views of Bodiam Castle UNDERSTOOD TO DATE from

The study, snug/music room and

the turn of the 16th/17th century,

kitchen/breakfast room, fitted with

this beautiful country house

a two oven Aga, are also located

occupies an elevated position with

on this floor.

superb views towards Bodiam Castle and beyond.

On the ground floor is the

On the first floor are four attractive bedrooms, all of which enjoy lovely views, together with

drawing room with an open

two further bathrooms.

fireplace, a formal dining room

A substantial attic spans the

with a fireplace and inset wood

length of the house and can be

burner, plus a family room, which

accessed via a retractable ladder.

could be utilised as a fifth

Included is a detached three

bedroom as it has the benefit of

bedroom, three bathroom holiday

an en suite shower room.

cottage and up to about eight acres.

PROPERTY: Brasses Farm, Grade II listed house LOCATION: Ewhurst Green, East Sussex GUIDE PRICE: £1,495,000 BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 2 + shower room EXTRAS: cellar, snug/music room, attic space, three-bedroom detached holiday cottage, expansive garden area, pond BEST BITS: an excellent detached listed cottage converted in 2010 accompanies the property. It comprises a light and airy open plan sitting room/kitchen and private garden. Outside there is a drive with parking and private garden.

For full details contact Savills • 01580 720 161 • www.savills.co.uk 156

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c c:.

HELEN BREEZE THE LETIINGS & MANAGEMENT SPECIALISTS

ARE YOU THINKING OF LETTING YOUR PROPERTY THIS SUMMER? We have been assisting landlords in this area for the last 25 years.

We can help you through the letting process, giving you clear guidance on how best to prepare your property. Contact our lettings team for more information!

To search for our properties on line, please visit our website:

www.helenbreeze.co.uk or come in to our office in Sevenoaks.

12 London Road, Sevenoaks, KentTN131AJ T: 01732 740789 F: 01732 740742 W: www.helenbreeze.co.uk

Untitled-7 2

23/07/2015 13:57

Howard

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brackeffs

Batcheller Monkhouse

ESTATE AGENTS & CHARTERED SURVEYORS

and co

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BROOKS PEACOCK Town & Country Propertze~

~MJProperty

savills

"Knight

MFrank

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Agents' Mutual Limited -A company limited by guarantee. Company No: 8381458. Registered in England & Wales. OnTheMarket.com and the associated logo are registered trademarks of Agents' Mutual Limited.

Registered Office: 3rd Floor Conn aught House, 1-3 Mount Street, London W1 K 3NB, England.

Untitled-5 1

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SO

EDWARDIAN HOME IN THE MODERN AGE A family house ideally located on the edge of Tunbridge Wells

PROPERTY: 10 Hopwood Gardens LOCATION: Tunbridge Wells, Kent

A BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED three storey Edwardian semi-detached

pleasant view of the garden.

home, Hopwood Gardens offers well

and a shower room are all arranged

proportioned family accommodation

over the two floors above.

The rear garden has a great patio area

with plenty of appeal.

On entrance, the first room you come

PRICE: £575,000-£595,000

Four bedrooms, a family bathroom,

with space for table and chairs plus

BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 2 EXTRAS: Large bay windows, patio,

to is the dining room with an angular

steps that lead down to the lawn with a

timber garden shed, close proximity

three bay window to the front. Walking

well-tended shrubbery borders. There is

to railway stations

through the hallway, the kitchen is the

a further circular feature patio at the end

next, with a range of cream coloured

with a timber garden shed.

Lying just north of Tunbridge Wells

cupboards and oak butcher-block

BEST BITS: With the open green space and play facilities of St Johns Park,

worktops. To the rear of the house is the

town centre, Hopwood Gardens is a

sitting room with a large chimney breast

charming family home in a great

and a log burner set on a marble hearth.

location. Both private and state schools

and the Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre

From here, French double doors lead

are within a short distance along

close by, there are lots of ways to keep

out to the patio allowing for a very

with mainline railway stations.

active in this area.

Grosvenor and Hilbert Recreation Park,

For full details contact: Bracketts • 01892 533 733 • www.bracketts.co.uk AUGUST 2 0 1 5

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•••

Barnes Kingsnorth

£1,300,000 UNIQUE 18TH CENTURY FAMILY HOUSE having been completely and sympathetically transformed. Stroll of town location and superb accommodation with 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 4/5 receptions including magnificent drawing room and contemporary kitchen opening into family I dining room sure to be the hub of the home. Mature & private garden, ample parking, garage and self-contained apartment. EPC: C Apply Tonbridge

£565,000 FLEXIBLE ACCOMMODATION. Detached chalet-style home in cul-de-sac location.

23' x 18' L-shaped sitting/ dining room, kitchen, shower room and 2 further bedrooms / reception rooms to the ground floor with 2 double bedrooms and bathroom upstairs.

Double garage, parking and gardens. In n eed of modernisation, with scope to extend.

(STPP) EPC: E

£593,000 HANDSOME DETACHED CHALET STYLE HOME p erfectly located for a variety of excellent schools, town centre and the MLS. Beautifully presented with 3 I 4 bedrooms, 2 luxury bathrooms, sitting room, separate dining room, superb kitchen with breakfast & sitting area and an additional TV /family / bedroom 4 to ground floor. Driveway parking and fully enclosed garden with terrace. EPC: D Apply Tonbridge

CENTRAL LOCATION WITH PARKING. an elevated position, within 0.5 miles of MLS and town amenities. Off-road parking and sunny courtyard garden. Sitting room, dining room open to kitchen, utility area, cloakroom, first-floor bathroom. Period features include sash windows, picture-rails and attractive fireplaces. EPC: E

£700,000 WELL PROPORTIONED 19305 DETACHED HOUSE offering scope to update and become your p erfect home. Generous accommodation with 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bay fronted dining room, sitting room with doors onto garden, kitchen, utility and cloaks. The wide rear garden extends to approximately 150' so offers lots of scope for the keen gardener or space for the trampoline! EPC: E Apply Tonbridge

BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED FAMILY HOME in sought-after cul-de-sac close to the primary school. Well-proportioned accommodation comprising porch, sitting room, dining room, kitchen with integrated appliances, cloakroom, utility room, 3 double bedrooms and stylish bathroom Small garage/store with driveway parking and a secluded rear garden. EPC: D Apply Pembury

Pembury 01892 822880 e.pembury@bkea.co.uk

Tonbridge01732 771616 e.tonbridge@bkea.co.uk

Residential Sales & Lettings Untitled-18 2

Lettings 01732 771616 e. lettings@bkea.co.uk

www. bkestateagents.com 22/07/2015 15:47

www. lambertandfoster.co.uk

(i)nTheMarketcom

ti rightmove

Property professionals for over "1 00 years NEW TO LET

Lynsted, Kent

£3,000 pcm

Loyterton Farmhouse is a substantial brick built property offering contemporary accommodation whilst retaining many character features, surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens and enjoying stunning views across the countryside.

Wood panelled entrance hall with imposing staircase and landing • Dining room boasting wealth of original features • Drawing room • Sitting room • Kitchen with separate utility room • Cloakroom • Four double bedrooms • Bathroom with roll top bath • Separate shower room • Storage/hobby room • Spacious detached outhouse • Triple garage with electric doors • Delightful established gardens with terraces and pergola • Unfurnished • EPC: F

NEW TO LET

West Farleigh, Kent

£2,995 pcm

Tutsham is an impressive double roundel Oast converted to a high specification in an elevated position with spectacular views over open countryside and the Jock at Teston

Kitchen with Aga and array of integrated appliances open to large reception room with woodburner • Utility room • Cloakroom • Dining room in roundel with doors to terrace • Second reception in roundel • Master bedroom suite with dressing room • Roundel bedroom with en-suite shower • Double bedroom with en-suite wet room • Two further double bedrooms • Spacious bathroom • Double garage with electric door • Gardens with terrace extending to approx. 1 acre • Unfurnished • EPC: C

.

.

Lettings offices at:

Untitled-18 2

I 01892 Paddock Wood 831606

Cran brook 01580 712234

I

Please note: admin fee of £250 per property will apply

-Sf ARIA

(~ RICS

22/07/2015 15:48

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£9.50,000

One of the fi nest period townhouses in Royal Tunbridge Wells, beautifu lly presented and situated with in a short walk of the station and Calverley Park.

PENS HURST

£89.5,000

A beautifu lly presented five bedroom fam ily house located in th is qu iet cu l de sac close to the centre of th is qu intessential English village. Penshurst lies between two rivers and hosts Penshurst Place and the local church wh ich have both stood for over six hundred years.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£399,9.50

A stunning penthouse apartment located in th is modern development on Mount Ephraim, benefiting from a contemporary fin ish as well as a good sized roof terrace with far reach ing views.

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22/07/2015 15:49

01892 525522

BIDBOROUGH

£2,250 PCM

A four bedroom detached fam ily home benefitting from a brand new kitchen and located on the Bidborough/Southborough borders, close to Bidborough School and only 2.0 miles from Tonbridge main li ne station.

LANGTON GREEN

£1,250 PCM

A two bedroom terraced village house located in the centre of Langton Green a short walk to The Hare pub and Langton Primary School.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£900 PCM

A very beautifu lly presented and modern apartment located in Culverden Down within walking d istance of the town centre and main li ne station, and benefitting from a private terrace and secure underground parking.

Untitled-18 3

22/07/2015 15:49

ANDREWS

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Ask Linda, Rosemary and Edward.

Book your free valuation today*

We can say we're great, tell you about our local expertise, shout about our four new awards - and promise all the tools to get you moving, fast. But what really matters is what our customers think.

Sales

So instead of listening to us blow our own trumpet, find out what Linda and all our other happy customers have to say: www.andrewsonline.co.uk/testimonials

Lettings

Call 01892 515 144 Click tunbridgewells@andrewsonline.co.uk

Call 01892 525 551 Click tunbridgewel ls.lets@a nd rewson Ii ne.co.u k Visit 11 Grosvenor Road, TN1 2AH

• Free valuation does not apply to valuations conducted for insurance or mortgage purposes.

Untitled-18 2

22/07/2015 15:50

ANDREWS

Beulah Road, TN1

Guide £895,000

Speldhurst Road, Southborough, TN4

£575,000

In need of modernisation this stunning semi-detached period home is situated in the favoured St James area. Set over four floors, with 8 bedrooms, 4 reception rooms, 2 bathrooms, parking and a 95' x 37' rear garden. Call now to truly appreciate this family home with many character features.

This imposing period building in Southborough offers lots of space, with a porch, entrance hall, 4 bedrooms, 3 receptions rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, upstairs bathroom, cloakroom and garden on two sides. Call now to truly appreciate what this family home has to offer!

Energy Efficiency Rating : TBC

Energy Efficiency Rating : D

Maryland Road, TN2

£725,000

Five bedroom detached home positioned on a corner plot in the popular Hawkenbury area of Tunbridge Wells. The extended reception space offers a 29'2 x 26'8 (at max) kitchen/ dining area and breathtaking views over the open countryside. This home is certainly one to see - early viewing encouraged.

Energy Efficiency Rating : C

Untitled-18 3

Ravenswood Avenue, TN2

£500,000

Well presented 1930's semi-detached family home in the popular Ravenswood area of St James. With entrance hall, living room, kitchen/breakfast room with views over the 170ft long garden, outside office, we and a useful utility room. Upstairs there is a landing, three bedrooms and a family bathroom.

Energy Efficiency Rating: E

22/07/2015 15:51

Edison Court, Exchange Mews, Culverden Road

OIRO £270,000

Investors or First Time Buyers. Situated in the favoured St John's quarter of Royal Tunbridge Wells is this well presented top floor, two bedroom purpose built apartment. Benefits include entrance hall , bathroom , ensuite off the Master bedroom , open plan lounge/ modern fitted kitchen area. Underground allocated Parking.

Rochdale Road Price Range £330,000-£350,000

Jonas Drive, Wadhurst Price Range £365,000-£395,000

Leneda Drive Price Range £340,000-£360,000

Sought after St James area , a three bedroom semi detached property with two receptions, modern kitchen , bathroom and cloakroom. Outside, two allocated parking spaces and a courtyard garden.

This well presented bungalow is situated in the popular village of Wadhurst. Features include two double bedrooms, wooden flooring , a wood burning stove, modern kitchen and shower room. Outside there is a garage and driveway with a landscaped garden.

A semi detached three bedroom bungalow in need of modernisation , situated on the popular southern side of town. Accommodation includes entrance hall , lounge, kitchen and bathroom . Outside, Driveway, Garage and Rear Garden. No Chain.

Untitled-18 2

22/07/2015 15:53

Connells

1225pcm

Grove Hill Road

Sought after 2 Double Bedroom Apartment. Situated moments away from Tunbridge wells main line station and popular Pantiles area. Also benefiting from off Road parking. This beautiful property is spacious throughout benefits from 2 double bedrooms master with En-suite, modern fitted kitchen with dining area and spacious lounge. Also benefiting from private balcony and allocated parking space for one car

Molyeux Place

£1250pcm

Prestigious first floor flat, situated in the popular Mount Ephraim area of Tunbridge Wells with easy access to the town centre and mainline station.

The accommodation comprises of entrance hall , fitted kitchen with integrated appliances, spacious lounge with dining area, master bedroom with en-suite and fitted wardrobes, one further double bedroom with fitted wardrobes and family bathroom.

Untitled-18 3

Exchange Mews

£1100pcm

Delightfully presented two double bedroom apartment. Situated perfectly with easy access to Tunbridge wells main line station and the town centre.

This Newly decorated apartment benefits from spacious open plan living room & modern fitted kitchen, Two Double bedrooms, Master with en-suite and white suite family bathroom with shower over bath. Private underground secure parking for one car.

Addison Road

£775pcm

The apartment offers light and airy open plan living space, with a modern fitted kitchen and integrated appliances making this a hassle free property to move into. The master bedroom is a large double with two windows allowing natural light to flood the room . Modern fitted bathroom with shower over bath .

22/07/2015 15:53

An attractive Grade II Listed family house in the heart of the village Entrance hall, drawing room, sitting room, kitchen I breakfast room , ground floor shower room. Master bedroom, 4 further bedrooms, family bathroom. Gardens with lawned area, terrace and feature pond. Off-road parking. Cranbrook School Catchment.

A pretty 17th Century farmhouse in a wonderful position Kitchen, utility, conservatory, drawing room, dining room, study. Master bedroom with en suite, 2 further bedrooms, shower room. Detached triple garage. 1 bedroom studio. Outbuildings.

EPC rating E. In all about 1.6 acres.

An attractive family house in a peaceful rural position with wonderful views Situated within the Cranbrook School Catchment Area. Entrance hall, drawing room, family room, kitchen I breakfast I dining room, utility room, cloakroom. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, 4 further bedrooms (1 en suite), family bathroom, mezzanine playroom. Detached double garage with storage room above. Mature gardens and grounds with summer house and small orchard. EPC rating E. In all about 0.5 of an acre.

Untitled-18 2

22/07/2015 15:54

. . Knight . . Frank

Untitled-18 3

22/07/2015 15:54

5% deposit is all you need with Help to Buyt

Gove r.r.i me r.i t Gove r.r.i me r.i t

Untitled-18 2

22/07/2015 15:54

Q

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lL[J WOOD & PILCHER

Fordcombe, Tunbridge Wells

£975,000

This substantial detached property is situated in a quite location within the

Tunbridge Wells

£950,000

A fine example of a traditional detached three storey Victorian villa situated on a

desirable village of Fordcombe . Set in a small enclave of five properties it has a

small no-through road, within one of Tunbridge Wells' most popular and sought

very rural setting with beautiful gardens to reflect this fee l.

after residential location approx. Y2 mile distant from MLS and town centre.

The accommodation comprises entrance hall , sitting room , dining room , kitchen/

Entrance hall, sitting room , family room, dining room, d/s cloakroom, master

breakfast room, utility, study and downstairs cloak room. On the first floor the master bedroom and second bedroom both have en-suite facilities with three further

floor, two double bedrooms, shower/utility to lower ground floor, 66' rear garden .

bedrooms and family bathroom completing this lovely family home. EPC Rating: B

EPC Rating : D

Crowborough

£765,000

Situated in approximately one third of an acre in the sought after Warren area of

bedroom, en suite shower room, three further bedrooms, family bathroom to first

Etchingham, East Sussex

£935,000

A simply stunning and beautifully appointed 5 bedroom detached home, built

the town, an opportunity to acquire a detached 5 bedroom Berkeley Home built to

by Millwood Designer Homes, situated on the western edge of the village of

a high specification .

Etchingham and surrounded by woodland and farmland .

Entrance porch, entrance hall , sitting room , dining room, study, kitchen/breakfast

Reception hall, drawing room, dining room , study, kitchen/breakfast room , utility

room, utility room, cloakroom, 5 bedrooms, en suite bathroom, family bathroom,

room, cloakroom, master bedroom with en suite, bedroom 2 with en suite,

double garage and attractive gardens. EPC Rating: D

family bathroom, 3 further bedrooms, detached double garage, 10 year Premier Warranty. Predicted Energy Assessment: C

Tunbridge Wells Office I 01892 511211 tunbridgewells@woodandpilcher.co.uk Crowborough Office I 01892 665666 crowborough@woodandpilcher.co.uk

Association of Res idential Lening Agen ts

National Association of

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23/07/2015 13:41

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sares@mcau(eymi((er.com 22/07/2015 15:55

01580 242700 Residential Sa les

Management and Lettings

The sale of Marsham Farm presents a 'once in generation opportunity' given the idyllic country and coastal lifestyle it provides, combined w ith the surrounding acreage and superb equestrian facilities. This magnificent 7 bedroom family home is situated within the parish of Fairlight in an unrivalled and elevated position with breath-taking sea views to the south and Rye Bay to the east being surrounded on 3 sides by National Trust land and its own land on the fourth.

wealdproperty.net

Large walk in storage room. Exterior: Long private tree lined drive * Large parking and turning areas * Garaging for 3 cars with attached office I bedroom studio and useful store room * Gardens - approx. 1 acre *

Land - approx. 16 acres.

Equestrian Facilities - High quality Leddon stabling for 5 horses in a 60' x 45' concrete barn with solid floor and drainage * Tack room * Total covered area 320 sq.m * High specification menage being 40m x 30m of rubber over silica sand over limestone with excellent drainage.

The property is served by high quality equestrian facilities, a large barn incorporating stabling for 5 horses, hay I straw storage, tack room, and an outdoor menage.

Adjacent to the main house, lies a detached 3 double bedroom Oast house, garaging for 3 cars, exterior office I studio, 2 attractive (agricultural) outbuildings with potential for conversion into ancillary accommodation I holiday lets (subject to planning consent), expansive mature gardens and land in all totalling approximately 17 acres, being located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Outbuildings / Agricultural buildings/ Holding Number - (i ) period stabling I agricultural building (45' x 18') and lean to with development potential (subject to planning consent) * (ii) a free standing agricultural building (22' x 33') partially converted including hard wood frame and insulated slate roof with development potential for a 2/3 bedroom holiday let I ancillary accommodation (subject to planning consent) * Marsham Farm has the advantage of a Ministry of Agriculture holding number with no agricultural ties.

Marsham Farm - Ground floor: Reception Hallway I Inner Hall * Cellar * Downstairs Cloak Room * Dining Hall * Drawing Room * Kitchen * Large Breakfast Room seating 16 * Study Area * Utility Room I Boot room. First Floor: Landing * Bedroom 1 - double with en suite Bathroom * Bedroom 2 double with en suite toilet and wash basin * Bedroom 3 - large double * Family Bathroom * Master Bedroom 4-largedouble * En-suite Bathroom.

Second Floor: Bedroom 5 - double *

Marsham Farm Oast - tastefully converted 3 bedroom Oast House registered on a separate title * Kitchen/ breakfast room * Sitting room * dining room * Small snug I sun room. First Floor: Master bedroom - double with en-suite shower room * 2 further double bedrooms * Family bathroom.

Exterior: Rear garden with attractive decking EPC: C.

Viewings are strictly by appointment only via Weald Property â&#x20AC;˘ T: 01580 242700 E: info@wealdproperty.net ~RLh.. r--~

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2Windmill Oast, Windmill Farm,

Rolvenden, KentTN17 4PF

23/07/2015 13:42

£595,000 GOUDHURST A beautiful 4 bedroom detached family house situated in the delightful village of Goudhurst and within the Cranbrook School Catchment area. There property also benefits from ample off road parking and an outbuilding to the side. There is no onward chain.

"B' Tunbridge Wells 01892

£799,950 TUNBRIDGE WELLS A six bedroom attached family home, situated in a cul-de-sac location, within 1.5 miles off the Town centre and mainline station.

"B' Tunbridge Wells 01892

278085

278085

TUNBRIDGE WELLS £700,000 A four double Bedroom, two bathroom detached family home with three reception rooms and double integral garage situated in a tucked away position in Sandown Park. Internal viewing is highly recommended.

CROSS IN HAND £1,000,000 A beautiful detached Late Edwardian presented 6 double bedroom house situated in approximately 1 acres. The property has a wealth of character and has the most stunning kitchen.

A viewing is strongly recommended.

ff Tunbridge Wells 01892

"B' Tunbridge Wells 01892

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278085

278085

22/07/2015 15:55

www. lambertandfoster.co.uk

(i)nTheMarketcom

ti rightmove

EST 1900

Lambert & Foster Property professionals for over "1 00 years

PART OF THE LOCAL LANDSCAPE

Have you been left dangling on the market?

Lets get you moving ....

Our team will value your house for the current market achieving the best possible price for your home. We have a large and diverse database of well placed buyers looking for homes like yours. From studio flats to large country estate and everything in between - call us today for your free valuation*.

Here is a small selection of our sales from June/July 2015 ... want to add your property to our future sales?

East Peckham

£925,000 East Farleigh

£700,000 Horsmonden

Paddock Wood

£510,000 Marden

£275,000 Five Oak Green

£595,000

£295,000 *Free valuation applies to residential sales only

Paddock Wood 01892 832 325

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Mayfield 01435 873 999

I Cranbrook 01580 712 888

~ ARlA

(~ RICS

22/07/2015 15:48

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FOOD NEWS Our monthly look at what’s happening on the local culinary scene

Sparkling Success Hush Heath Estate are celebrating after one of their sparkling wines, the Balfour 1503 Classic Cuvée, was honoured with a gold medal at the Decanter Awards.

The Estate, in Staplehurst, has produced many award-winning wines, including some enjoyed by passengers travelling first class with British Airways.

The winning drink was described by Decanter as: ‘broad, powerful, with notes of baked apples and light camomile hints.’

It blends Pinot Noir with Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier and was said to add a lightness to the palate, with gentle pastry notes, excellent, elegant balance and serious length.

“We only launched the Balfour 1503 Classic Cuvée in November 2014,” says wine producer Richard Balfour-Lynn.

“We are delighted that it has already won gold.” www.hushheath.com

IMPERIAL HONOUR Two pubs have been honoured with accolades at Shepherd Neame’s annual pub awards. The Imperial, in Southborough was handed the ‘tenanted pub of the year’ title while The Peacock, in Goudhurst has been awarded ‘pub food of the year.’ Both hostelries are part of the Shepherd Neame Brewery and are run by individuals from the community.

The Imperial was praised for its attention to detail and outstanding service from the staff. The pub was taken over in 2013 and has been thriving since.

The Peacock, which never used to stand out, is now known as a destination food pub with a locally sourced menu and wide selection of dishes.

WISE WIN Wise Owl Cider Ltd has been awarded a bronze medal at the International Cider Challenge 2015 – despite having only been trading for a year.

The cider is made from a variety of pressed apples selected from their Kentish orchards, and makes a light and flavoursome 100% apple juice cider.

It’s become popular across the south and takes pride in its hometown of Tenterden.

This comes not long after their win at the Taste of Kent Awards earlier this year where they took the award for Best Kentish Cider or Perry.

The drink is getting the attention it deserves and is showing up across local establishments and even at local festivals, including Tentertainment.

fine wining For those looking to sample a range of delightful drinks, The Dining Room at the Buxted Park Hotel is now offering a new fine wine list. The fine dining restaurant, located within the hotel, has a list of 45 wines ranging in price from £57 to £515; they include Champagne, Bordeaux, sweet wines and port. The chief sommelier of the restaurant, Jean Francois Bret Quainon, says he would be more than happy to help those who need advice in their selection or to be provided with additional information. www.handpickedhotels.co.uk

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zAUtilities Limited

BEST INDIAN RESTAURANT IN THE SOUTH EAST REGION KENT AWARDED BY THE BCA 2014 The Cinnamon Square Co-owner Habib Siddiq said:

"We were surprised yet elated and felt very honoured to have won the award. To be appreciated in just over two years has given us an immense feeling of satisfaction for the hard work and effort we have put into The Cinnamon Square. Furthermore, it has motivated us to go the extra mile to bring great and unparalleled food and service to our patrons.

We would like to dedicate this award to the management team and the entire staff for their hard work and dedication; without them this would not have been possible."

:!I

Tree of Hope

The winners of the ninth annual BCA (Bangladeshi Caterers Association) Awards were announced at an illustrious London ceremony in November. The awards welcomed chief guest, Ed Miliband MP, who delivered an inspirational speech commending the contributions of the British-Bangladeshi community.

Mr Miliband said:

''These are incredibly important awards, because they honour a community and a set of restaurants that are at the heart of every street and every neighbourhood in our country. It 's a privilege to celebrate your success."

Charity Quiz Night, Tuesday 8th September, to help raise money for Tree of Hope www.treeofhope.org.uk I Please see our website for full details

RINGS HILL

I HILDENBOROUGH I KENT I TNI 1 8XL I 01732 832944 (Take away service available 10% Discount)

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• Traditional English Pub with Fine Dining • Home Cooked Food • Large Selection ef Fresh Rye Bay Seefood * • Time Honoured Pub Classics

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OPENING TIMES Monday to Friday 6:30A.M.-5:00P.M. Saturday 6:30A.M.-1 :OOP.M. -

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

The Great Summer Pub Guide

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into a thriving country pub and restaurant, with a warm and inviting interior and a delightful suntrap of a garden.

With a wide selection of Harvey’s cask beers and a menu that ranges from steaks and burgers to moules marinière, their famous fish and chips and a kids’ menu, The Brecknock is ideal for a family visit.

The enclosed gardens, with marquee if required, make ideal summer function spaces

The Bell Inn TICEHURST

Don’t expect normal! Surrounded by glorious countryside in the pretty village of Ticehurst, this

and are popular for private events, including christenings, parties, wakes and other occasions.

Bayham Road, Bells Yew Green, East Sussex TN3 9BJ 01892 750 237 www.thebrecknockarms.com

quaint red-brick building conceals an exuberant, cool pub. The bar is a great place to drop in for a pint or sample well-cooked classic English food, using locally sourced, seasonal produce.

Described by The Times as ‘somewhere Alice in Wonderland would feel right at home’, The Bell has just got a little more curious with the addition of the Love Nest and three lodges that mimic the design of Kent and Sussex oast houses, set in beautifully designed gardens around a central fire pit.

The locals are friendly and you never know what event might be going on in the Stable or Big Room, to which all are welcome. Films, comedy, debates, live music, fairs – all of life is here.

High Street, Ticehurst, East Sussex TN5 7AS 01580 200 234 www.thebellinticehurst.com info@thebellinticehurst.com

The Chaser Inn SHIPBOURNE

As an award winning W&H gastro pub, The Chaser Inn is renowned for its cracking Sunday lunch, so if you’d like to try it out for yourself, book early to avoid disappointment!

Legend has it that iconic film stars Elizabeth Burton and Richard Taylor enjoyed a tipple here, but that’s not the pub’s greatest claim to fame – it takes its name from the nearby Fairlawne Estate where steeplechase horses were trained. Her Majesty the Queen Mother secured 250 winners that trained there, under the watchful eye of Peter Cazalet from 1949 to 1973. So, this is an interesting

The Brecknock Arms BELLS YEW GREEN

New landlords Sally and David Fawcett have transformed this tired Bells Yew Green tavern

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spot in which to enjoy some summer refreshment.

Stumble Hill, Shipbourne, Tonbridge, Kent TN11 9PE 01732 810 360 www.thechaser.co.uk

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perfect spot to enjoy a quintessential English summer afternoon. In fact, The Cricketers Inn even played a significant role in the birth of cricket in the 1700s – the sport’s founding fathers were known to have visited the pub before, during and after matches.

Low level outdoor lighting means you can continue to enjoy alfresco dining on those balmy summer evenings, even after the sun has gone down.

The Chequers Inn LADDINGFORD

Wrotham Road, Meopham, Kent DA13 0QA 01474 812 163 www.thecricketersinn.co.uk

The Chequers offers a relaxed atmosphere in a centuries-old environment. Carefully managed by Charles and Tracey Leaver for the last 21 years, it is a true village pub with a traditional menu of good quality, value for money dishes, as well as Sunday roasts, the specials board and children’s menu.

The very large garden is ideal for children, with a play area, guinea pigs and Shetland ponies. There is still room for plenty of tables, as well as outside seating at the front.

staff – everything an English pub

The Elephant’s Head

should be. Booking is advised.

LAMBERHURST

Award winning and with a good reputation for real ale, there are no gimmicks; just tradition and friendly

The Street, Laddingford, Kent ME18 6BP 01622 871 266 www.chequersladdingford.co.uk

Dating back to the 15th century, the Grade II listed Elephant’s Head in Lamberhurst, situated on the Kent and Sussex border, offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere, along with fresh, homemade meals made with locally sourced ingredients, accompanied by a selection of Harvey’s real ales and a collection of fine wines.

Recently refurbished with a fresh new menu and interior look, there’s a large conservatory and garden for beautiful sunny days and a warm and cosy open fireplace for the chilly winter ones.

The perfect place to end a stroll in the countryside and the ideal venue for

The Cricketers Inn MEOPHAM

With a large York stone patio area to the rear and additional patio overlooking the cricket pitch at the front, this W&H pub makes the

lunch with the family.

The Elephant’s Head Hook Green, Lamberhurst, Kent TN3 8LJ 01892 739 525 www.elephants-head.co.uk AUGUST 2 0 1 5

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terrace garden. This is a real suntrap in the summer months. Equipped with a barbecue and bar, it’s perfect for whiling away afternoons in the sunshine. The Grasshopper hosts barbecues throughout the summer (weather permitting, of course!) and complements great food with deliciously refreshing drinks, cocktails and internationally sourced bottled craft beers. Our terrace garden can be booked privately for a function, or reserved for smaller groups. The

The George Inn

beautiful boutique hotel rooms couple The Grasshopper Inn’s old world charm with elegant,

FRANT

modern luxury, making it the ideal spot for a

In the village of Frant is The George Inn. Just

Moorhouse, Near Westerham, Kent TN16 2EU 01959 563 136 www.faucetinn.com/ grasshopperinn

two miles south of Tunbridge Wells, The George has everything expected of a village pub – well kept local beer, home cooked, traditional English food with continental variations, oak beams and

summer getaway or weekend break.

log fires in the winter. Known for its warm and friendly atmosphere inside, The George also has a beautiful, peaceful and enclosed rear garden.

Planted and nurtured by staff and family, there’s barely a whisper of traffic to be heard from the wooden benches in this sunny, colourful garden – ideal for sunny lunches with family or balmy summer drinks. Similarly, watch the village and the world go by at a table out front. Frant is bordered by the beautiful Eridge Park estate and is part of the High Weald Walk, so is an ideal and popular watering hole for country walkers.

36 High Street, Frant, East Sussex TN3 9DU 01892 534 136 www.thegeorgeinnfrant.co.uk

The Kentish Hare BIDBOROUGH

Here at the Kentish Hare in the picturesque village of Bidborough, we are a freehouse offering fantastic local ales and beers, along with a great selection of wines, mixed and soft drinks. Our ethos is to celebrate the best of Kent, the Garden of England and its wonderful produce, which our talented team of chefs use to create modern British food in our state-of-the-art kitchen. We offer a drinking and dining environment in a relaxed and informal setting. In the summer months, why not dine alfresco on our calm and tranquil terrace or in our beautiful, mature

The Grasshopper Inn MOORHOUSE

Nestled in the valley of the ancient River Darrent, this iconic Tudor venue in the Surrey Hills on the border of Kent and Surrey boasts a gorgeous

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garden, surrounded by flowers, plants and herbs?

A great place to kick back, relax and enjoy the best of the Great British summer!

95 Bidborough Ridge, Bidborough, Kent TN3 0XB 01892 525 709 www.thekentishhare.com

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unique ‘hut’ facilities for outside dining and a play area for children, so adults can relax in the sunshine with something refreshing while the youngsters work up an appetite for a delicious meal.

The Little Brown Jug embodies everything that ‘the Great British pub’ should be, from the warm welcome and relaxed atmosphere to the home-cooked food, excellent ales

The Kings Head BESSELS GREEN

The Kings Head is the seventh addition to the Whiting and Hammond (W&H) family.

Standing proudly on Bessels Green, just a moment away from Sevenoaks, this

and fantastic wine. What better way to spend a pleasant hour or two with family and friends?

Chiddingstone Causeway, Tonbridge, Kent TN11 8JJ 01892 870 318 www.thelittlebrownjug.co.uk

delight promises dining experiences galore, with breakfast, lunch, dinner and even afternoon tea on offer. Continuing the W&H ethos of offering a delicious menu using locally sourced, fresh produce, there’s plenty to enjoy here in the summer.

The beautiful garden also houses three huts that can be booked for any occasion. Open seven days a week, The Kings Head welcomes one and all to soak up the sun in the garden over lunch.

Westerham Road, Bessels Green, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2QA 01732 452 081 www.kingsheadbesselsgreen.co.uk

The Mark Cross Inn MARK CROSS

If you like a dining experience with a view, this W&H hostelry boasts an extraordinary outlook across the beautiful Sussex countryside.

There’s also an outdoor play area to keep the children safely entertained in the south-facing, fenced garden.

Easy to reach by bus, car, bike or on foot, The Mark Cross Inn is the perfect wayside stop for any intrepid explorer.

The Little Brown Jug

Visitors might like to keep an eye open for the pub’s extra staff member – George the spider. He frequently

CHIDDINGSTONE CAUSEWAY

resides on the cellar stairs, but his

Another W&H establishment, this pub

Mark Cross, East Sussex TN6 3NP 01892 852 423 www.themarkcross.co.uk

was formerly known as The Station on account of its close proximity to Penshurst railway station, directly opposite. Now the pub boasts

job title is so far unknown.

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serious about brilliant beer. There are six ever-changing cask ales and six keg craft beers, including the best UK microbreweries and worldwide imports, plus 10 ciders, excellent wines and an amazing selection of chilled speciality bottled beers. Drink inside or in our Pantiles seating area on the Corn Exchange square below the bandstand.

The Oak Tree SEVENOAKS

The Oak Tree, Chop House and Tap Room

39 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TE 01892 530 397 Twitter: @thepantilestap

is a recently refurbished venue on Sevenoaks High Street. Once an isolated Tudor farmhouse, The Oak Tree has undergone a thorough transformation, making it a premier food and drink destination for the area. The menu showcases fresh English food and boasts an ever-changing variety of well-kept cask ales, 12 refreshing lagers and ciders on draught, an extensive wine list and bottled craft beers, all alongside a premium range of spirits – perfect for cocktails, long drinks and lazy afternoons in the sun. With an outdoor seating area, as well as beautifully designed interiors with large sash windows, there is always somewhere cool to dine when the sun is shining.

135 High Street, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1UP 01732 742 615 www.faucetinn.com/oaktree

The Star MATFIELD

The Star is found in the beautiful village of Matfield. The pub has recently reopened under new ownership, along with a complete refurbishment – a family friendly pub with extensive outside space for dining, drinks with friends and a bouncy castle for the kids.

There’s a menu consisting of homemade British classics and, although best known for the Sunday roasts and large choice of pies, there’s also a wide range of lighter bites and salads. Plenty of space inside, with a cosy, snug area and large dining room

The Pantiles Tap TUNBRIDGE WELLS

The Pantiles Tap is a real ale and craft beer paradise in the heart of The Pantiles that’s

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that’s great for private functions.

Maidstone Road, Matfield, Kent TN12 7JR 01892 725 458 www.thestarmatfield.com

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complete with draught beers, chilled wines, spirits and soft drinks, it’s the ideal place to enjoy the Great British summer.

Food is served from 12pm to 10pm daily, while diners at the Seafood Brasserie can enjoy some privacy with their own section away from the drinkers and bar.

To combat the uncertainty of our weather, we have installed heaters and the entire garden can be covered in moments.

York paving stones and former royal

The White Hart WADHURST

Following a complete refurbishment and reopening in September last year under new management, The White Hart in Wadhurst now has a modern,

iron fencing create a unique surround where you can forget you’re in the centre of a busy Kentish spa town.

39 Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8AA 01892 511 422 www.sankeys.co.uk

contemporary feel, while retaining many of the original Victorian features. Our focus is on sourcing everything we can locally, including fish from our local fisherman, fruit and veg from a local business and all our meat from the village butcher. Our menu focuses on what we can source fresh and is all cooked to order. We always run a minimum of six real ales, at least three of which will be from local breweries within 25 miles of the pub.

The White Hart High Street, Wadhurst, East Sussex TN5 6AP 01892 782 850 www.whitehartwadhurst.co.uk

The Railway Tavern CROWBOROUGH

The Railway Tavern is a very friendly, traditional British pub, with a sport-loving community of regulars and a warm welcome for all visitors. Food is served all day, every day – a wide range of sandwiches, baguettes and the locally renowned all-day full English breakfast.

Outside is a private car park, a large garden with pretty planting, a separate patio area and, unusually, a petanque rink – great fun on a summer’s evening!

Sankey’s

TUNBRIDGE WELLS Our south facing beer garden is a real sun trap when it’s sunny! With its fully functioning bar,

Crowborough Hill, Jarvis Brook, Crowborough, East Sussex TN6 2JL 01892 654 524 www.railwaytaverncrowborough.co.uk AUGUST 2 0 1 5

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(Garden Kitchen) where the views are as stunning as the new look menu - a menu that roars sustainability and local pride.

Finally we have Mother Love (Events Kitchen) and Mother Truck (Street Kitchen).

The menu at the Twenty Six – so called as there are 26 place settings (plus a private room upstairs) is, of course, highly seasonal and is subject to change. I arrive on a lovely sunny evening; cricket is being played on the green outside, the natural light coming into the building is spectacular and the interior is utterly charming. The restaurant is kind enough to allow me to bring my children, as well as their mother.

We’re warmly welcomed by Hannah who, alongside Jade, gives us a masterclass of hospitality all evening.

First to descend the spiral staircase from the kitchen is the asparagus with pea and

LEARNING TO SHARE Joe Murphy becomes one of the select few to pull up a chair at The Twenty Six in Southborough and discovers why this ‘test kitchen’ is a place where fond food memories are made

hazelnut dressing, and the salmon tartare, soy caviar and sea vegetables. I go for the latter – stunningly fresh and dazzlingly beautiful. Unlike the geometry and precision of Gary Rhodes, Scott’s artistry is not stencilled; instead what you see on the plate is a thing of unmistakable natural beauty. Scott’s style can best be described

cott Goss is a man buzzing with ideas,

S

the top job at The Swan in West Malling,

as ‘classical unplugged’. The salmon is

fully immersed in his craft – an

which became widely acknowledged as the

perfectly sweet, prickled with slight acidic

infectious enthusiasm resonates with every

best ‘gastropub’ in Kent. Now firmly

notes and is the ideal starting point. The

animated sentence. His energy, authenticity

established as one of the county’s most

local asparagus opposite is every inch a

and clarity strikes you like a lightning bolt.

respected chef’s Scott has his eyes on a

Kent classic; if there is a better place to

Scott means every single word he says – his passion is not just written all over his face, it’s written all over his left forearm too.

new prize altogether – enter I’ll be Mother group of restaurants.

Alongside Scott, long term business

“To feed you is to love you”… May I

associates David West and Peter Cornwall

present to you Southborough’s ‘Artist in

have combined to unleash their shared love

Residence’…

of all things Kent to a wider audience. The

The Twenty Six is Scott’s laboratory, but

I’ll Be Mother philosophy is built around

don’t expect any weird science; this

three core values: comfort, dependability

invention chamber is a portal to Mother

and inspiration. It’s all about creating a

Nature, not an industrial hub full of space

platform for people to engage and interact

age technology. Seasonality is at the very

through a shared love of food. This

core of Scott’s culinary philosophy, a

experience can be accessed at a number of

sentiment that has driven him from the

diverse ‘end points’ in the group: The

start of his impressive career. At 18 he was

Twenty Six (Test Kitchen) and The Swan

working under Gary Rhodes (City Rhodes);

(Wine Kitchen) at Chapel Down, an

this was soon followed by stints at Rhodes

80-cover family-friendly restaurant with

on the Square, Allium under the renowned

privately roomed Chef’s Table terrace

Anton Edelmann and with Robert Spencer

dining, complemented by award winning

(former Head Chef at the Michelin starred

wines from the superb Chapel Down

Square). It was hardly surprising then, that

Vineyard. Then you have the newly

by the tender age of 25 Goss was offered

revitalised Beacon in Tunbridge Wells

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“To feed you is to love you” sense of togetherness and of course, the sharing of truly great food, a concept central to the I’ll Be Mother philosophy.

Here, quality does not come at a price; the menu is set at £22 for two courses or £29.50 for three. Look out for the tasting menu on its way, which will be priced around £45 for eight courses. What is really important is the feeling you are left with when you leave.

It’s also the feeling you have when you ago back. I for one will be back – very soon.

enjoy it, I need to know about it.

cream flavour, hundreds and thousands,

Despite the lure of lamb and the

chocolate buttons, raspberry sauce etc.

temptation of beef (both brilliantly

What a brilliant idea, guaranteed to get

represented on the mains section), I opt for

your kids sharing at the table and sharing

the fillet of cod, white asparagus, gem and

with their friends on Instagram afterwards.

chicken tea. Staying with the watery theme,

Drinks-wise, it’s been a case of Chapel

my wife chooses the jasmine smoked

Down’s wonderful Curious Brew (£4),

salmon, beetroot, fennel and orange.

followed by a lovely white Rioja (£23 per

Meanwhile, the two ecstatic children

bottle). If you suddenly get the feeling

devour braised beef from a large copper

you’ve been here before, it perhaps means

pan at the table. That moment has arrived

you’ve found the right place to go back to

– four beaming faces united as they all

time and time again.

gaze approvingly at their plates.

Cod has become a special occasion fish and this particular dish ticks every box.

Nostalgia – ain’t what it used to be. But one thing is certain: great memories are born out of sharing good times, a collective

The Twenty Six 15a Church Road, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 0RX 01892 544 607 www.illbemother.co.uk

Snow white, sweet lobes of pure delicate flesh teamed with the chicken consommé to deliver a truly unforgettable experience.

The handpicked vegetables bursting with spring flavour are only surpassed by the charred Hipsi cabbage on the side (Hipsi is now my daughter’s favourite vegetable in the world). Happy faces all round, conversation flowing – that’s what this is all about, isn’t it?

I’m pretty predictable when it comes to desserts. I either go straight to the cheese or have a bit of someone else’s. However, I’m completely powerless to resist a Kent strawberry in summer, especially when it comes with a wobbly panna cotta, sugary meringue and mellow elderflower. This is the sort of finale that writes its own superlatives. The children are let loose on a DIY sundae kit, including a choice of ice

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The Wheelwrights Arms The Green, Matfield TN 12 7JX

traditional

www.wheelwrightsarmsmatfield.co. uk

190

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FOOD

SO

UNDERCOVER EATER Our monthly look at what’s happening on the local culinary scene

Here’s where we send one of our resident foodies into a local eatery and they tell it like it is. This month Undercover Eater pops in to the Swan in Wittersham

specials into account. I’ve heard good

when we left, the staff were incredibly

things about their grill options, so order

welcoming and attentive. Nothing was

the full rack of beef ribs in the chef’s own

too much trouble and they were happy to

BBQ marinade (£12.50) which one of my

suggest menu choices and drinks.

guests echoes, while the other chooses the burger with bacon and Monterey

The only thing is...

Jack cheese (£8.95). All come with the

As a huge fan of pulled pork I was really

Intro

most amazing homecooked chips which

looking forward to trying their pulled pork

In the past I’ve visited the Swan and found

are seasoned and crisped to perfection.

burger, which sadly they didn’t have when I visited. We sat in the saloon bar to eat,

it to be lacking in atmosphere, but since it got a new menu, new owners, new chefs

Price

but the restaurant itself has less character

and a refurbishment I’ve been keen to

For the quality of the food, the prices are

and unless it was full could seem a little

return and sample its wares. Friends

very reasonable. Portion sizes are large

isolated, so I would recommend plumping

who’ve been have given it the thumbs up,

and the food is well cooked, nicely

for eating in the main pub if you get the

so, when visiting relatives who live nearby

presented and very tasty. Starters begin at

choice. I’ll definitely be returning soon to

I subtly suggest we pay the pub a visit…

£3.95 and mains range from around £8.50

give the pulled pork a go…

to £19.50. A meal for three of us came in at

Location

around £50, for drinks, starters and mains.

Right in the heart of the village, the pub is on

The Swan Wittersham 1 Swan St, Wittersham,

the main road between Tenterden and Rye.

Staff

Kent TN30 7PH

It’s not difficult to spot, but as it’s right on a

From the warm greeting we received

01797 270 913

bend it does surprise you. This is the sort of

upon entering to the cheery goodbye

www.theswanwittersham.co.uk

establishment which is most popular with its village regulars and with those who stumble across it while out on a country drive.

Décor Newly refurbished, the pub has a cosy feel without being too dark or outdated. Comfy sofas adorn the corner of the saloon bar with its open fire, while the modern restaurant extension to the rear is light and bright.

Menu Since reopening as a steakhouse/grill earlier this year, the Swan’s menu offers something a little different to other pubs around. There are seemingly endless choices, from sandwiches during the day to the grill menu, steaks, burgers, fish, salads and that’s all before you take the

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23/07/2015 17:29

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SO

- AMAZING WINES - SPIRITS AND COCKTAILS - TASTY CHARCUTERIE BOARDS - INDIVIDUAL TAPAS DISHES - UNIQUE GARDEN - PRIVATE ROOMS FOR BUSINESS OR SPECIAL EVENTS -

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01892 526515 WWW.TOWNHOUSETWELLS.COM

• Recently undergone extensive refurbishment, brand new interior design and menu • Menu features home cooked meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients • Fine selection of Harveys Real Ales and carefully selected Wines • Large beer garden • Large conservatory • Large open fireplace • Grade II listed historic timbered farmhouse dating back to the 15th century, traditional public house since 1768.

• Newest addition to the managed house division of Harvey & Son Brewery • Situated in idyllic countryside offering an ambient and traditional atmosphere • Brand new website along with Facebook and Twitter pages.

194

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ADVERTORIAL

SO

WICKETS AND WINE Guests at Hotel du Vin in Tunbridge Wells were bowled over by an evening of wine tasting with England cricketer James Anderson. With wine evenings becoming an increasingly popular fixture on the venue’s calendar, we find out more about the event and what the hotel has coming up

T

he Ruinart, Hotel Du Vin,

embarked on a passion project for 2015

Tunbridge Wells was the setting

and is bringing out a wine collection.

for yet another spectacular wine

Recollecting his family holidays to the

dinner on Thursday July 2 2015, and this

south of France, James’s palate took him

time with special guest James Anderson!

to the Languedoc region, where he chose

Recently nominated for the prestigious ICC Cricketer of the Year, James is widely regarded as the best swing

wines in conjunction with the Robert Vic family vineyard in Beziers.

The evening began with a drinks

bowler in the world and recently made

reception at 7pm, followed by a three

history, beating Sir Ian Botham’s record

course meal, including paired wines

as England’s highest test wicket taker of

chosen by James. The meal also featured

all time. He now holds the record for

a Q&A with James and the winemaker.

most ODI, test and overall international

If you sadly missed out, don’t worry,

wickets taken by an Englishman in the

as there are more wine dinners to

history of the game – making him the

follow (dates below), so book now

best bowler England has ever produced.

to avoid disappointment.

England’s all-time wicket taker has

UPCOMING EVENTS: WINE WEDNESDAYS First Wednesday of every month, starting from August SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13 European Wine Dinner THURSDAY OCTOBER 1 Olly Smith NOVEMBER Rugby Nations Wine Dinner

Contact the events team to find out more on 01892 526 455 or email events. tunbridgewells@hotelduvin.com Hotel du Vin Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2LY 08447 489 266 www.hotelduvin.com

AUGUST 2 0 1 5

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23/07/2015 15:58

ROSEMARY SHR__AGEK_S A P P R E N T

C

E

S

H

p

s

RECRUITING NOW! APPRENTICESHIPS AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING FOR PROFESSIONAL CHEFS

Are you: Currently out of education, employment or training? Interested in becoming a qualified chef in as little as 12 months? The next Rosemary Shrager Apprentice?

If the answer to the above is "YES!" then you should contact us RIGHT NOW!

Why: Because we are looking for enthusiastic, ambitious, young people who have a passion for food and would like to be trained by Rosemary Shrager and her team of talented chefs, in our new, state-of-the-art, professional kitchen in Tunbridge Wells.

"It is now all about the next generation of chefs and I am so excited to have the opportunity to be involved in training our new future stars." Rosemary Shrager 2014 To apply and for any further information, please visit our website www.rosemaryshrager.com to download the application form or contact: jason@rosemaryshrager.com

E

shragerapprenticeships

't#

RSApprentices

Limited places still available for September

2015

ROSEMARY SHR._AGER'..S COOKERY

SCHOOL

COOKERY COURSES • CHEF'S TABLE • PRIVATE PARTIES CORPORATE EVENTS • HOSTED MEETINGS

Chefs Table Exclusive Dining Experience with ever-changing menus created by Michelin trained chefs

One & Two Day Weekend Cookery Courses with Rosemary Shrager, John Rogers & Iain More

Children & Family Courses • Private Celebrations Telephone: 01892 528700 Email: school@rosemaryshrager.com

www.rosemaryshrager.com

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FOOD

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THOUGHT FOR FOOD This month our own celebrity chef, Rosemary Shrager, has been sampling local produce

T

I saw Jean Cristoff Norvelli recently; he will

his summer my herbs are going

the depth of dryness with the hint of citrus

haywire; my angelica is growing like

and sweet plum – this is perfect with our

be coming down to school to do an event

a triffid and the tarragon is huge. I’m

season of fresh strawberries.

with me, so watch this space, I will give you

also happy that my verbena has survived

Right now the food festivals are in full

all good warning.

Throughout the summer we’re running

through the winter – this is not an easy plant

swing. I’ve been back to Harrogate doing the

to keep, and it doesn’t like winters so it needs

Cake and Bake show with Eric Landlard and

children’s courses and still have places for this

to be protected. This is my very favourite

Gregg Wallace who were on very good form

month. It’s a fun day out for them, plus they

plant because it’s so versatile – you can even

being naughty as ever. The other person

take home what they don’t happen to eat…

make tea from it. We use it in syrup for ice

who is not so well known but is so clever at

cream, and also use its flavour in sauces.

cake decoration is Danielle Gotheridge; her

you more as time goes on, but I will be

cakes are fantastic, so do have a look on her

writing my next column from a faraway place.

Lately, I have tasted a lot of Kentish produce and have discovered some great food and beverages. I absolutely love Beult House Bees

website www.daniellegtheridge.com.

It was great to see Sir Terry Wogan visit

from Headcorn, and adore the heather honey.

The Pantiles recently. We had him cooking at

I’ve also been enjoying Jakes Tree pure apple

the cookery school making salted caramel

juice from the Hush Heath Estate; this is

éclairs – I think he enjoyed it!

fabulous, so strong and so tasty.

school doing some filming. We go way back;

be the Chapel Down vintage reserve Brut. It’s

he put one of my dishes on his menu, but he

got the small bubbles I am looking for – also

never let me know which one!

SERVES 4

We have had such great weather I’m going to give you my marinated lamb kebab recipe.

Have a wonderful August.

We’ve also had Richard Corrigan in the

One of my favourite alcoholic drinks has to

MARINATED LAMB KEBABS

In September I’m filming for the BBC. I’ll tell

www.rosemaryshrager.com

 First cut the lamb into 2cm chunks and put into a bowl.  Add your crushed peppercorns, cumin seeds, garlic cloves and coriander seeds to the lamb with the salt, paprika and lemon zest.  Marinate overnight or as long as possible.

• 650g leg lamb, skinned • 8 skewers soaked for ½ hour in cold water (so they don’t burn when you cook them) • 1 teaspoon black pepper corns, crushed • 1 dessert spoon cumin seeds, crushed • 2 cloves garlic, crushed • 1 tablespoon coriander seeds, crushed • 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt • 1 dessert spoon paprika • Zest of 1 lemon • 2 red peppers sliced in half de-seeded and chopped into 2cm dice • 4 tablespoons olive oil

 Next, skewer the lamb and the peppers alternatively onto the skewer until the meat is nicely layered up the kebab stick.  Either grill or barbecue for 10 minutes turning regularly until cooked.

MINT YOGHURT SAUCE • ½ cucumber peeled and seeds removed with a spoon • Small pot of yoghurt • 2 tablespoons mint • Salt and pepper  Cut the cucumber into fine dice and then mix this with the yoghurt and mint.  Add salt and freshly ground pepper to season.

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SO

SCRUMPTIOUS. SOPHISTICATED. SIMPLY SUPERB.

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We offer free early education funding for 2, 3 & 4 year olds Graduate lead experienced team

Open 51 weeks per year

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01892 513 777

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Open 51 weeks a year for 0-5yrs

pen rom early to 6.30pm Fnen ly, welcoming and qu ~i~ d team • Quiet, residential location in the heart of 1i nbridge Wells • Large adventure garden with our 0Wf1 allotment

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SCHOOLS

SO

EDUCATION NEWS COME RAIN OR SHINE Children aged two to six are excited to start at a new school in September.

The Rain or Shine Forest Pre-school is set to open on September 7 on Judd Wood Farm between Bidborough and Tonbridge.

A local child-minder, Nadia Romano and her friend Sam Clarke have set up the school. Their aim is for children to reconnect with nature and to keep active, with the curriculum consisting of learning about plants, animals and insects and how to care for them. The

OPENING

idea came about when Nadia realised

FUN CAMP

that a lot of working parents don’t have the time to get their children outside.

She says that come rain or shine the children will be outside, and when it does rain there is a canopy and fire

Barracudas activity camp, which was

circle for warmth, although she admits

previously held at The Judd School,

that dressing appropriately for the

will be opening its doors this summer

weather is important. Along with this

for the first time at the Tonbridge Grammar School. The new venue boasts some impressive facilities, including a sports hall, two drama studios, a dance studio, indoor hall,

STUDENT SAFETY 

they have built compostable toilets, a large mud kitchen using pallets and recycled wood, an eating table, and an activity table.

The school will have a mixture of two

playing fields, all weather court,

Over 1,200 primary school children

to six year olds, will start at 9.15am and

archery range, motorsports track and

across the Weald have been learning

finish at 2.15pm. There will be two

arts and crafts room. Kids aged four

about risk and safety first hand during

two-and-a-half-hour sessions so the

and a half to 16 years old will be able

this summer’s Safety in Action weeks.

children can either stay for one or both.

to take part in the summer camp,

Blue light services and transport

either just for a day or for a week, and

providers have joined Wealden District

already booked up with a waiting

can develop new skills, make new

Council to provide two weeks of events

list for those who want their

friends and have loads of fun. Along

to give Year Six primary school pupils the

children to join.

with the variety of sporting activities,

chance to experience hazard scenarios

there are also plenty of skill builder

in safe and secure environments. These

courses available, such as motor

situations include road safety, personal

mania where children will learn about

safety, looking after an injured person,

safety, signals and the basic

reporting an arson attack, safety on

mechanics whilst also enjoying

railway lines, alcohol, water and danger

tearing across the tarmac.

on the farm.

The camp will run to through until the

The school is Ofsted registered, and is

Among the services working with

end of the third week in August, and

Wealden are the Sussex Police, South

with their fantastic water park and the

East Coast Ambulance Service, East

tried and tested favourite activities,

Sussex Fire and Rescue, Southern

the school is gearing up for a

Railway, Freedom Leisure and NHS

busy summer.

school nurses.

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23/07/2015 17:25

SO

MOTORING MATTERS

OUR ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM THE MOTORING SCENE

PA PHOTO/DAVID SHEPHERD

LEXUS

FLOCK AND SIEMENS

Recently unveiled at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the new Lotus 3-Eleven is officially the fastest roadgoing Lotus in existence.

At £115,000 for the Race version, it’s the priciest Lotus yet sold, but, if you’re looking for something slightly more affordable the Road version is a snip at just £96,000. “This new car is a giant slayer, capable of embarrassing far more expensive rivals,” says Jean-Marc Gales, the boss of Group Lotus. “This is a perfect demonstration of the faster and lighter concept, something which will be crucial to all Lotus cars in the future.”

JULIEN’S AUCTIONS

GROUP LOTUS

LUXURY LOTUS

LIGHTENING SALE

GREAT SCOTT

BLOODHOUND GANG

DRIVER MOT

An iconic film car sold for over $600,000 (£390,000) when it went up for auction in LA. The customised 1949 Mercury Series 9CM – nicknamed ‘Hell’s Chariot’ appeared in the 1978 film Grease, and was driven by John Travolta in the famous drag race scene.

Many assumed it had been destroyed after filming, but it was recently discovered preserved in a garage and was up for grabs for the first time at auction house to the stars Julien’s Auctions.

The car was used for every scene in the film except the stunt shots during the final sequence.

It was the seemingly impossible invention featured in the Back to the Future films, but now the iconic Hoverboard could become a reality, thanks to Lexus. The car manufacturer recently revealed that they’re working on a prototype of the board, as part of its Amazing in Motion campaign. The Lexus project team has used magnetic levitation with liquid nitrogen-cooled superconductors and permanent magnets to give the Hoverboard frictionless movement.

Although a completely different form of transport, the Hoverboard shares design cues with today’s Lexus cars, including the signature spindle grille.

It has also been made using some of the same materials, both high-tech and natural, such as bamboo.

The team behind the supersonic jet car the Bloodhound SSC is planning a dry-run in Cornwall.

It’ll be the first public outing of the world land speed record bidder, which is gunning for a new 1000mph v-max, demolishing the previous 763mph record set by Thrust SSC. The SSC will make its world debut on November 17 in the Newquay Aerohub, where it will test its latest gear. However, despite boasting a top speed of 1000mph, it’ll be restricted to just 200mph.

The car will then be fitted with air brakes and winglets, ready to start high-speed testing in South Africa.

High-tech systems to monitor a car driver’s stress, fatigue and concentration levels are being tested by Jaguar Land Rover (JLR).

The company wants to see if a car can effectively read the brainwaves that indicate if a driver is beginning to daydream or feeling sleepy. JLR is also developing a seat in a Jaguar XJ which analyses the driver’s heart rate and breathing to indicate their health and stress levels. In addition, the company is working on technology which will provide touchscreens that predict which in-car entertainment button drivers want to press even as their fingers are in mid-air - thus minimising the time spent with eyes off the road.

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Cooper Tunbridge Wells

Untitled-18 2

The Ultimate Driving Machine

22/07/2015 15:57

THE NEW BMW 2 SERIES CONVERTIBLE. LESS LIMIT. MORE SKY. With its elegant and sporty design, the new BMW 2 Series Convertible is a breath of fresh air.

A well-insulated soft-top adds to the convertible luxury; without dampening the thrill of the drive. See it drop in a fleeting 19 seconds, even at speeds of up to 31 mph.

The new 2 Series Convertible offers a laid- back look and compact proportions, assertive design language with short overhangs, powerful contours and a muscular rear reflect a powerful confidence.

Agile handling and exceptional driving dynamics set the pulse racing, while a choice of BMW TwinPower Turbo engines combine impressive acceleration and low fuel consumption.

Experience the driving dynamics of the new BMW 2 Series Convertible.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, AND TO ARRANGE A TEST DRIVE*, PLEASE CONTACT COOPER TUNBRIDGE WELLS TODAY.

Cooper Tunbridge Wells Longfield Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3UE 01892 629 503 www.coopertunbridgewellsbmw.co.uk

BMW EFFICIENTDYNAMICS. LESS EMISSIONS. MORE DRIVING PLEASURE.

Official fuel economy figures for the new BMW 2 Series Convertible range: Urban 24.6-54.3mpg (11.5-5.21/1 OOkm). Extra Urban 47.1-70.6mpg (6.8-4.01/1 OOkm). Combined 33.2-64.2mpg (8.5-4.41/1 OOkm). C0 2 emissions 199-116g/km.

Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions . * Test drive subject to applicant status and availability. BMW EfficientDynamics reduces BMW emissions without compromising performance developments and is standard across the model range.

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SO

A CLASS OF ITS OWN Billed as the world’s ‘fastest ultra-luxury driving experience’, does the new Bentley Mulsanne Speed live up to its hype? Matt Joy finds out…

A

lthough you may be familiar

Mulsanne Speed models are

rather than ridden in but regardless

with the Speed tag from

distinguished by dark-tinted finishes

of where you sit, the Mulsanne Speed

elsewhere, this is a whole

on the outside, unique alloy wheels,

offers a sumptuous experience.

new model for the Mulsanne

rifled exhaust pipes and relatively

Upfront there is more space than you

range; bar the limited

discreet ‘Speed’ badges. There are also

could possibly need, as well as a

edition GT3-R, it represents the

some unique colour options, but

superb driving position that elevates

highest level of performance, without

whatever you do, the Mulsanne will get

you above the humdrum machines

sacrificing the sumptuous levels of

noticed. It’s a huge car, sitting high

that litter the roads.

comfort for which Bentley is famous.

and proud, and while it’s not for the

There are exterior and interior enhancements but the biggest news is

shy, it has class and presence in spades.

The Mulsanne not only has the

In the back it’s even better; it’s a first class rather than business class experience with enough legroom to

under the bonnet, where the mighty

allure of the Bentley badge, it also

stretch your legs and even recline the

6.75-litre turbocharged V8 has been

manages to elevate itself above the

seat. The boot is big too, less so if you

massaged to produce even more

(relatively speaking) ubiquity of the

choose the high-end Naim audio system,

power and a mind-bending 811lb.ft of

Continental GT, making this a Bentley

but either way it’s got plenty of room.

torque. There have been tweaks to the

apart, if such a thing were possible.

steering and suspension to match too.

It might be designed to be driven

It’s difficult to describe the sense of wellbeing you get when you’re cocooned

This car summed up in a single word:

RESPLENDENT

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behind the Speed’s beautifully trimmed

with the option of a chilled

wheel, but not even the swankiest hotel

champagne fridge, it defies

suite can compete.

comprehension.

Fire up the giant V8 and there’s a

The saying ‘you get what you pay for’ is

discreet snarl, reminding you of the

made real with the Mulsanne Speed.

power available but without disturbing

There are quite a few other things you

the cabin. That enormous torque

can buy for £250,000, not least

output makes a mockery of low-speed

something made from bricks and mortar,

driving, just the tinniest tickle of

but spend just a few minutes in the

accelerator is required to make

Mulsanne’s superlative cabin and you

progress. Combined with the

begin to understand where the pennies

cushioned ride and hushed noise

go. This is a car hand-built by experts

levels, the Mulsanne Speed is possibly

out of first class materials; if you want

the best way to travel bar none.

the best, you have to pay for it.

But there’s more fun to be had just

This is a car designed for the rich, the

by squeezing the large throttle pedal

famous and those who are both, but if

to the floor. Do so and there’s a

your numbers come up this Saturday

monumental swell of power and

you could choose a lot worse. Even

torque, the nose lifts slightly and the

better, the Mulsanne’s elevated status

Speed hurtles forward with

over the Continental GT models means

unbelievable rapidity. 0-62mph is

it will open doors that others can’t.

despatched in 4.9 seconds which is If this car was... finished in tweed it

2.7 tonnes, swathed in leather and

couldn’t be any classier.

FACTS

fast for any car, but for one weighing

BENTLEY MULSANNE SPEED, £252,000 Engine: 6.75-litre petrol unit producing 530bhp and 811lb.ft of torque Transmission: Eight-speed automatic gearbox driving the rear wheels Performance: Top speed 190mph, 0-62mph in 4.9 seconds Economy: 19.3mpg combined Emissions: 342g/km CO2

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~I]

ADVERTDRIAL

THINKING OF MOVING HOME THIS SUMMER? You've made the decision to move, found your dream home and your offer has been accepted. Feelings of excitement and apprehension set in and all you want is the whole process to end with you safely ensconced in your new home. So what steps can you take to ensure that the process will run smoothly and costly mistakes are avoided? Well, skimping on surveys and conveyancing can cost you dearly in the long run. So here are some top tips to help your move go as smoothly as possible

BY DEBORAH MILLER

have been exchanged on or before 3 December 2014, and the transaction is

1

GET YOUR MORTGAGE AGREED FIRST

For a free copy of the Kent Guide to Buying and Selling Your Home or for further advice regarding your home buying/selling experience just complete and cut out this coupon and post to the address below. Alternatively call or email us today quoting reference MBRT0104

completed on 4 December or later, you can choose whether to use the old or

Although borrowing from banks

the new rules.

and building societies has improved

There is no doubt thatthe SOLT

recently, it is not a given. So to avoid

changes will be of benefit to many

disappointment, check you can get the

home buyers. For example, under

mortgage you need before starting

the old regime, Stamp Duty Land

the process. You can get a mortgage

Tax payable on a purchase price of

agreement in principle secured

£350,000 would be £10,500 and under

first, but remember that this is an

the new regime it would be £7,500 ·

indication and not a legal agreement.

representing a saving of £3,000.

2

4

DECIDE WHETHER YOU ARE HAPPY TO RELY ON

Telephone 01892 539 379 or Email so@maxbarford.co.uk Name Address

CHOOSE YOUR CONVEYANCING SOLICITORS WITH CARE

THE MORTGAGE LENDER'S

If you take the risk of buying without

VALUATION OR DO YOU

the support and guidance of an

Tel.No

REQUIRE A FULL SURVEY.

expertly trained legal conveyancer,

Email

A lender's valuation is an assessment

you run the risk of walking into

carried out by and for the benefit of

a financial booby trap which can

the lender in order to check that the

seriously hamper your progression

property presents adequate security

up the property ladder. You should

for its loan should you default and the

also make sure you know who you

property has to be sold. However, it

are instructing and that the firm is

Max Barford & Co 16 Mount Pleasant Road Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN11QU www.maxbarford.co.uk

does not report on actual faults in the

registered with a regulatory body

fully understand what is happening

property. For many, a Home Buyer's

such as the Solicitors Regulation

at each step of the move. If you are

buildings insurance cover in place

Report, which will expose problems

Authority. There are bogus law firms

not sure, ask! One further point to

from this date.

such as damp, dry rot and subsidence,

out there who will take your money

bear in mind is that your conveyancer

With this being said and the

will not visit the property themselves,

potential risks of buying a home

consequences. Make sure you have

is adequate but if you are buying

and then close up shop which means

an older house or unusual home a

you lose the money and your dream

so should there be something you

with hidden problems amounting

full structural survey will be a wise

home. That is why it is essential that

feel uncertain about bring it to their

to thousands of pounds in potential

investment.

you get the advice and guidance you

attention and they will provide you

outgoings, why would you cut corners for the sake of a few pounds when

need every step of the way from a

with the options available in order to

knowledge of a service history, so why

known reputable law firm. They are

try to resolve the issue.

the risks a re so large?

would you run this financial risk when

there to help you avoid the pitfalls of

buying a house?

what can be a murky area.

5

REMEMBER TO ARRANGE

For your free copy of the Kent

BUILDING INSURANCE FROM

Guide to Buying and Selling

You wouldn't buy a car without the

The cheapest option may not REMEMBER TO FACTOR IN

always prove to be the best.

THE DATE OF THE EXCHANGE

THE TRUE COST OF MOVING.

Remember, this may well be the

OF CONTRACTS.

regarding your home buying/selling

Mortgage arrangement fees, survey

biggest purchase you'll make and

From exchange of contract you will be

experience contact our office today

fees, legal costs and removal costs

you want to be sure that you know

legally responsible for the structure of

and speak to one of my property

are all substantial costs of moving.

what you are buying. You should be

the property. This is often overlooked

However, the often overlooked

able to contact your conveyancer and

and can potentially have serious

team on 01892 539 379 or emai I so@maxbarford.co.u k

3

Your Home or for further advice

but most expensive cost is Stamp

n which varies

Duty Land Tax (SDL

dependent on the value of the property purchased. If you purchase a property above £125,000 SOLT becomes payable. Recent changes to SOLT have been introduced to try to make the tax fairer. Under the old regime the SOLT percentage rates increased at various thresholds. Under the old rules SDLTwas payable at a single rate on the whole transaction value. From 4 December 2014, SOLT is payable on a sliding scale depending on the portion of the purchase price that falls within each rate band. Where contracts Max Barford & Co. is a trading name of Parfitt Cresswell. Parfitt Cresswell is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. No. 71480

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ADVERTDRIAL

Rtâ&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘

HAS THE TIDE OF JUSTICE TURNED FOR FATHERS IN THE FAMllY COURTS? THOUSANDS OF PARENTS RUN THE CONTACT AND RESIDENCE BATTLE EVERY YEAR. THEY ARGUE AND FIGHT OVER WHO THE CHILDREN SHOULD LIVE WITH AND WHEN CONTACT SHOULD TAKE PLACE.

BY MAX BARFORD It's not surprising considering the emotional stress that's experienced when faced with the life changing event that comes with ending a relationship. For the majority of parents an amicable agreement based on what is in the best interests of the child will be agreed without any intervention from the courts but for many who cannot reach that agreement an application to the Court is often the next step. Generally, the courts will not intervene in contact and living arrangements of children unless one party makes an application for what is now called a Child Arrangement Order. This was previously known as an application for contact and/or residence before changes to the law came into effect in April 2014. It was a contact application that started the Ethan Williams court battle that has received so much press coverage recently.

The unusual thing about Ethan's contact battle was that the media was allowed to report the case. In this case the Court made a decision to relax the limitation on publishing details in order to assist in locating Ethan's whereabouts after his mother ran away with Ethan after the court had ordered that he should live with his father even though his application to the Court had been for contact with his son. Now that the mother has returned Ethan to his father the Judge must also take into consideration her reckless behaviour. The mother will have a long way to go to show she can be trusted

by Ethan's father or the Judge. There will be further hearings to determine how often she sees Ethan and there is every possibility that this will result in even less contact with

Ethan. How the Judge deals with the mother will remain to be seen but the one thing her conduct will not achieve is the reviewing of the change of Ethan's primary residence to his father.

If you are involved in or considering arrangements for children it is very important to understand what the process is and what orders the Court can make including that the Court has the power to change which parent a child lives with where the Court believes it is in the best interests of a child to do so.

As an experienced family law solicitor I have advised many parents over the years and helped them achieve the best outcome possible in their circumstances. In many cases matters can be resolved relatively quickly through correspondence from your legal advisor and without recourse to the courts. Mediation and collaborative law can also assist with reaching an agreement that is acceptable to both parents. An application to the courts should only take place when you are unable to reach an agreement. It should be remembered that an application to the Court means that a judge will decide when and if contact should take place with a parent and/or where your child should live.

Ethan's case is full of heartbreak and emotion but the Judge has sent a clear message that parents who do not focus on what is in the best interests of the child will have an impact on what the Judge orders when considering contact and residence arrangements. Attention must also be paid to the harsh consequences of breaching a Court order. In the past some judges have issued little more than stern words to the party breaching the Court order in family contact cases but more recently the tide

appears to be turning and breaches are not accepted and consequences will follow.

This is an important point. The Court simply must not be seen as willing to ignore breaches of its own orders and allow parties to take matters into their own hands.

My advice to any parent facing the stress of contested child care arrangements is to get good legal advice at the start and understand what your options are and work with your legal advisor to resolve matters on a conciliatory basis as far as possible and always focus on what's in the best interests of your child. If all else fails an application to the Court can be made and the judge will decide.

SO MAGAZINE READERS OFFER Max Barford is a family law expert at Max Barford & Co Solicitors. Max and his legal team specialise in Children Law matters including contact and residence. For a limited period, Max Barford & Co are offering a selected number of potential clients an opportunity to meet with one of their expert Children Law solicitors for an initial free consultation to discuss the options available. Due to high demand there are only 1S consultations available this month and we know they will book up very quickly so contact Max Barford today on 01892 539 379 or email so@maxbarford. co.uk quoting reference SOC0715

Max Barford & Co Solicitors 16 Mount Pleasant, Tunbridge Wells. Kent TN11QU. www.maxbarford.co.uk

''

In many cases matters can be resolved relatively quickly through correspondence from your legal advisor

''

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BUSINESS NEWS OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE LOCAL BUSINESS WORLD

THE WINNER IS… A Lamberhurst business has scooped a major accolade at the Mobile Industry Awards 2015. Telecommunications provider Active Digital was named Best Unified Comms Dealer at a ceremony held at The Brewery in London’s Chiswell Street. The company was recognised for its broad range of products and strategies introduced over the past year, wowing judges with an enthusiastic presentation that also highlighted its approach to employees and customer service. Business Director Jo Wimble Groves says: “Our strategy on customers and employees as a combined focus has paid dividends in regards to customer satisfaction and overall employee engagement.” www.activedigital.co.uk

swag to riches Congratulations are in order for a local creative design agency. The Tunbridge Wells based ifour’s client, money exchange specialists Fourex, have won in the ‘New Things’ category final of Sir Richard Branson’s Pitch to Rich 2015 campaign. Joint Fourex founders Jeff Patterson and Oliver Du Toit appointed ifour in August 2014 to design a kiosk, user interface screens and a crowd funding video ahead of the brand’s UK launch this month. Graeme Hall, Creative Director at ifour, says: “It has been fantastic to work with such a revolutionary idea and to bring this brand to life.” www.ifour.co.uk

INTERNATIONAL RENOWN

Kent has been recognised for playing a key role in growing the UK economy. At an event hosted by Locate in Kent, guests learned that the county makes an important contribution to Britain’s Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). In 2014/15, the UK maintained its position as the number one European destination for FDI, with 2,397 jobs being created in Kent and Medway.

Richard Colley, Head of Local Delivery at UK Trade and Investment (UKTI), says: “We look to Locate in Kent for quality propositions and a coherent, joined up offer to present to potential clients across the globe.” www.locateinkent.com

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SHOWROOM SUCCESS Ripples in Tunbridge Wells emerged triumphant at the Bathroom and Kitchen Update Awards. Over 200 members of the industry turned out to celebrate the first ceremony at Madame Tussauds, where Ripples’ Tunbridge Wells showroom was named Bathroom Showroom of the Year, while the company was also nominated in the Multiple Retailer of the Year and Best Customer Service categories. Colin Payne, Director of the showroom in Tunbridge Wells, says that he felt “enormous pride and satisfaction in the recognition of all the hard work that my team have invested into the showroom over the past eight years.” www.ripples.ltd.uk

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ADVERTORIAL

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RANGE OF EXPERTISE

As a long-established yet innovative firm of solicitors, Dawson Hart in Uckfield is committed to providing a professional and personal service to its clients. Victoria Regan Head of the Employment Team and John Guthrie of the Commercial Property Team offer their expertise on a variety of burning topics UNLOCKING VALUE FROM YOUR LEASE For the owner of a long lease of a flat, there are many legal rights and opportunities to increase its value.

A lease is often referred to as a ‘wasting asset’.

As time passes, the lease has fewer years left to run and its market value diminishes. Many mortgage companies are reluctant to lend on a property where the lease has less than 70 years to run.

Help is at hand with the legislative rights summarised briefly below: Collective Rights Under the 1993 Act, if the qualifying conditions are met, then the statutory procedure can be followed to buy the freehold, either at a price agreed with the landlord or as determined by the Leasehold

ANNUAL LEAVE – WHAT A CARRY ON

Valuation Tribunal (LVT). Alternately, the tenants may take over the

The issue of annual leave has once again been

management of the building.

subject to consideration following a recent case

Individual Rights

in the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT). The

It’s not always possible to get the necessary number of tenants in a

case centred around a sick employee’s

building to participate, but in these circumstances, a qualifying

entitlement to carry over untaken annual leave into subsequent

individual who owns a long lease and has held it for at least two

leave years, if unable or unwilling to take it.

years can have their lease extended by 90 years and ground rent

At present, an employee on long-term sick leave continues to accrue annual leave and is entitled to it at another time. An employee may carry four weeks’ unused leave into a subsequent

reduced to zero again, either at an agreed price or in default determined by the LVT. The LVT can be time consuming and costly, but astute landlords

leave year. However, UK law does not allow for the imposition of

know that a tenant can achieve their desired objectives under the

time limits on the length of time for which leave can be carried

statutory procedures. With this in mind, it is often possible to avoid the

over, as no limitation period had been set.

time and cost of the statutory procedures by making a direct approach

In Plumb v Duncan Print Group Limited, Mr Plumb had been

to the landlord and we are always happy to advise in this regard.

absent from work due to an accident since April 2010 until his dismissal in February 2014. Mr Plumb claimed untaken leave since

For more information on this topic, please contact John Guthrie

2010. While the EAT agreed that it was enough for Mr Plumb to be

on 01825 762 281 or email CommProp@dawson-hart.co.uk

able to show that he was unable or unwilling to take the leave while on sick leave, they felt that a limit of 18 months from the end of the leave year in which the annual leave accrued would be an acceptable limit. Accordingly, Mr Plumb was entitled to leave from 2012. It was also held that it would not be necessary for the employee to have to prove that they were physically unable to take the leave due to sickness in order to benefit from carry-over.

For advice on all employment matters, please contact Victoria Regan on 01825 762 281 or email Employment@dawson-hart.co.uk This information has been prepared for general interest and it is important to obtain professional advice on specific issues and for your own circumstances. While we believe the information to be correct at the time of print, we cannot accept responsibility for loss occasioned by any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of this material.

Dawson Hart • 9 Church Street • Uckfield • East Sussex • TN22 1BH • 01825 762 281 • www.dawson-hart.co.uk Legal advice for you, your family and your business Monday - Thursday: 8am-6pm Friday: 8am-5pm Saturday: 9am-12pm

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EVENT

SOCIAL Chamber Chairman Mark Tuvey

GREAT COMPANY This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sevenoaks Chamber of Commerce summer party saw 125 businesses turn out on a beautiful evening at St Julianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club. The event organised by Brand Brown was sponsored by Specsavers. Biddenden Vineyard showcased some of their new wines and there was a raffle in aid of Mind, which raised hundreds of pounds. Patron of the Chamber, Rt Hon Michael Fallon MP (top right) was the guest of honour and spoke passionately about the success of local business and the Chamber of Commerce acting as a hub to the local business community.

Russell Harper Photography

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EVENT

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J.RILEY & SONS

J.RILEY AND SONS OFFERS

1,100 SECURE

BOXES

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ADVERTORIAL

SAFE AND SECURE

With summer holiday season upon us, now might be a good time to start thinking about how you’re going to secure your valuables while you’re away. J.Riley & Sons in Tunbridge Wells offers a range of deposit boxes, providing safe solutions for your most treasured items

SO

bolted to the floor. Thieves know that the householder or members of the family can open the safe in their homes, whereas we do not hold keys to the boxes and therefore are unable to open them at any time.”

The boxes are held within two grade eight vaults, protected by electronic time locks and with every area covered by high quality cameras with offsite recording and monitoring. To ensure total privacy, J.Riley & Sons offers customers the

J.RILEY & SONS offers some 1,100

another point of consideration is going

opportunity to book appointments to visit

secure deposit boxes of different sizes,

away, secure in the knowledge that your

their boxes during normal working hours

in a facility that has been built within the

valuables are safe,” says Matthew

of 9am to 5.30pm from Monday to Friday,

walls of the ex-Barclays Bank, at 73

Churchward, Manager of J.Riley & Sons.

although arrangements can be made for

Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells. Using

“It is a known fact that, because a property

access to boxes at other times.

two grade eight vaults and fingerprint

is vacant for a sustained period, it offers an

With deposit boxes starting from £200

technology, the facility offers total privacy

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heightened period of theft than by using

information or to book an appointment,

our state-of-the-art facility?

please call us or visit our website.

As mainstream banks no longer offer the comfort of a safety deposit box service,

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73 Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent

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items, papers and jewellery that it would be

01892 529 741

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“With the holiday season upon us now,

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CULTUREVULTURE OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE AREA

ENTERTAINMENT

YOU DON’T NEED TO GO TO LONDON… A change of note this month as we devote these pages to the Royal Tunbridge Wells Symphony Orchestra.

Fred Latty catches up with chairman Giles Clarke to hear about the challenges of bringing classical music to the forefront of the town’s musical repertoire

Tell us about the background to it all

fantastic, but getting the original word into

The orchestra itself is 93 years old. It was

the mouths can be more difficult.

set up as a group of quality local musicians

How has your audience changed?

and today is made up of amateur players

Classical music is a niche market and there

who perform to a professional standard.

are certain kinds of people who go to

Led by our music director Rod Dunk, there

concerts, so one’s always in the business

are six concerts each year between

of trying to catch the next generation of

October and Easter, which are held at the

listeners who might be interested. We

Assembly Hall Theatre and supplemented

offer discounted tickets at £1 per concert

by hired-in professionals, mainly from the

to students and under-18s, but the real

BBC Concert Orchestra.

core audience is generally much older.

We’re talking about having a family concert

Are the players then mainly amateurs?

next year and looking into further school

At our December 2014 concert there were

initiatives, so we keep trying!

43 professionals and 38 amateurs. ie more than half pros. The number of musicians

Has the recession had an impact?

will vary according to the programme, but

In the last two or three years, there has

the professional/amateur ratio remains

been a very sharp decline in numbers of

rather constant.

people who go to the concerts. The economy’s been bad and people don’t have

What are some of the main challenges?

as much money to spend, but it didn’t

Along with every other orchestra, the

seem to match the economic slump, which

problems are twofold: advertising and

went on for a couple of years before

finance. Even if the hall is sold out, we still

people stopped buying tickets. This is true

lose thousands of pounds, so bridging the

not just of us, but of all the local orchestras

gap between income and expenditure is

– and nobody really knows why.

the big issue and trying to find sponsorship through trusts and foundations is very

Where do you get your funding?

much part of the game. When letting

We don’t get any money from the borough

people know that there is an orchestra in

council; it’s under real pressure at the

Tunbridge Wells, word of mouth is

moment, so this is the kind of thing it drops out of. In 2010 and 2011, we received £2,500 each year from them, but there has been no further funding since then. We’re looking for sponsorship and the most successful approaches recently have been to trusts and foundations. I think commercial sponsorship is something we ought to do more of – getting out there and banging on the chief executives’ doors. But finding volunteers to do that kind of work is an uphill struggle!

What kind of annual deficit do you face?

Over the past ten years, the gap between our income from ticket and programme sales and our expenditure, on hiring the hall, professionals and sheet music for instance, has averaged about £30,000 per year (about £5,000 per concert). Income and expenditure fluctuate year to year, but the deficit remains at that order of magnitude.

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C U LT U R E

How do you tackle this issue?

980 in the Assembly Hall – our profit

choose programmes that stretch the

The deficit is met from individual donations

margin is very thin.

orchestra but still keep the audience with

SO

us. You don’t need to go into London to

from season ticket holders and playing members’ subscriptions, from grants from

What about the future?

hear top-class classical music; you can hear

charitable trusts and foundations, Gift Aid,

Our top priority is boosting the quality

it in Tunbridge Wells. Getting the town’s

commercial sponsorship; other fundraising

of the music and the performances –

residents to appreciate that is the

activities and occasionally from legacies.

ensuring that we’re making the best music

challenge. When it works, though,

Any remaining deficit is covered by funding

we can for the area. Each year, we try to

it’s so worthwhile.

from the Friends of the RTWSO. This is a separate charity, with its own trustees, set up in 1987 principally to support the orchestra.

How has your latest season been?

Key player Bass clarinettist Andrew Muir talks about life in the TWSO

Musically, it has been extremely good –

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WITH

orchestra. The experience of making

you don’t often hear Tunbridge Wells

THE ORCHESTRA?

music with professionals for whom

people shouting and stamping at the end

My first gig was in December 2008.

playing the notes is a day job is

of a concert! But selling tickets has been

It was a revelation, I had no idea a

something I could listen to for months

an issue and the financial problems are

local, semi-amateur orchestra could

and learn from.

not getting better at the moment.

sound that good.

What makes you the most money?

ANY PARTICULAR HIGHLIGHTS?

OUTSIDE THE ORCHESTRA?

I’m afraid there’s no such thing as a big

There are so many. Earlier this year,

I run a standards consulting team at

money-spinner in the world of symphony

we played the third piano concerto of

Swift, which is the network the banks

orchestras. Very few in Britain or

Rachmaninoff with Peter Donohoe,

use to send money to each other. I’ve

elsewhere could survive without some

which was incredible. The atmosphere

been extremely lucky to be able to

form of private or public support. Of

the soloist and the orchestra managed

indulge myself by playing as an

course, a programme of familiar music

to create was really special.

amateur with professionals, while

WHAT DO YOU DO FOR A LIVING

having a job at the same time that’s

(Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart) will sell more tickets, as will a well-known soloist such as

WHICH MUSICIANS INSPIRE YOU?

Nicola Benedetti, Stephen Hough, Freddy

Most of my inspiration at the moment

Kempf or Peter Donohoe. But even when

comes from the other people in the

rewarding and pays the bills. www.rtwso.org

we sell every seat in the house – about

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-

SO

Gorringes Tunbridge Wells LLP, 85 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1PX 220

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C U LT U R E

SO

“Across the four days well over 200 local acts will take part with close to 60 of them performing in Calverley Grounds”

QUESTION TIME

L

INSIDE VIEW This month our music columnist, Paul Dunton, gets into the festival spirit

ocal & Live is 10 years old! I simply cannot

Sankeys with a view to generating money for

believe it was a decade ago that the first

a return in 2014. It was agreed Calverley

event came to Tunbridge Wells. It was known

Grounds would be the new location for the

as ‘Bandstand 400’ to mark the town’s

main stage, with numerous pubs invited into

landmark year and was staged on the

a new section of the festival called ‘The

bandstand in The Pantiles. Twenty bands took

Fringe’ which enabled us to showcase

part and around 400 people attended; our

around 220 acts in total.

sound equipment was cobbled together on a

the indoor version in 2013, the event reached

stage branding or budget for marketing

new heights last year; Calverley Grounds proved

– these were indeed humble beginnings!

to be an idyllic setting for the festival and the

The following year I felt a catchier title was

SARAH POOK

required and Local & Live Music Festival

atmosphere and attendance was incredible.

So, what can people expect at this year’s

seemed like the right name. With support from

landmark event? In Calverley Grounds on

local business ‘Insafe’ the event now had the

August 29 and 30 there will be two stages

legs to become more professional in every area,

and definitely more toilets! The main stage

from equipment to presentation and aesthetics.

will run from noon to 9.30pm and will be

Over the next few years it really started to

supported by the Ollie Nicholls Acoustic

grow in both size and reputation. 2008 saw

stage which will be positioned on the old

larger crowds flock to The Pantiles as it

bowling green at the far end of the grounds

became a three day event and by the time

running from noon to 6pm.

2010 rolled around, Local & Live was

There will be two main bars run by

attracting sponsorship from 02, Fender and

Fuggles and The Ragged Trousers and a

Sennheiser, had expanded again to four days

selection of local traders who will be serving

and was attracting around 10,000 people.

an array of wonderful foods to suit

In 2011 we saw the emergence of the

everyone’s tastes. The Forum will host Local

second stage located next to the Duke of

& Live bands on all four days, focusing on

York and 120 acts were now playing across

the evening shows starting on Friday 28 and

the Bank Holiday weekend. In what proved

continuing to 10pm on Monday 31.

to be its last year on The Pantiles, 2012

Entry is free of charge to every event with

saw record crowds attend; somewhere

the exception of the late night after parties at

close to 20,000 people across the four

Grey Lady Music Lounge and The Camden

days, which was amazing in every regard

Quarter which will be ticketed events.

but it also raised my concerns about space

Across the four days well over 200 local acts

in future years.

will take part with close to 60 acts

The following year we failed to raise enough funds to pay many of the pre-event

performing in Calverley Grounds.

To find out more about the festival visit

costs and so staged fundraising events

www.localandlive.org and find us on

indoors at The Forum, The Grey Lady and

Facebook www.facebook.com/localandlive

SARAH POOK

www.paulduntonandguests.com

After eight great years on The Pantiles and

budget of £150, we had no lighting or any

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Define yourself in three letters.

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Cars driven by individuals who always desire more.

The new 911 Carrera GTS models.

All that matters.

Find out more at porsche.co.uk/911CarreraGTS

Porsche Centre Tonbridge Brook Farm Five Oak Green Road Tonbridge TNll OQN Tel: 01732 590 119 info@porschetonbridge.co. uk www.porschetonbridge.co.uk

Fuel consumption for the 911 Carrera GTS in 1/lOOkm (mpg): urban 13. 7-12.2 (20.6-23.2), extra urban 7.5-6. 7 (37. 7-42.2), combined 9.5-8. 7 (29. 7-32.5); C0 2 emissions: 223-202 g/km. The mpg and C0 2 figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results, are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience.

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T H E AT R E

SO

ENCORE

BOX OFFICE SMASH

chance to indulge in fantastic 80s music, when Go West, Nik Kershaw and T’Pau take to the stage together for one night

Get some dates in your diary and discover what the Assembly Hall Theatre has in store for the latter part of 2015.

only. With millions of album sales and

I

Close Our Eyes, King of Wishful t might seem eons away, but, Christmas

Ben is best known for his television

iconic hits such as Wouldn’t It Be Good, I Won’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me, We Thinking, Heart and Soul and the classic

is actually fast approaching (sorry).

work, including presenting numerous hit

China in Your Hand, this epic 80s

Before you can say ‘barbecue’ the

programmes on the BBC, ITV and

triple header is not to be missed.

nights will be drawing in and you’ll

Channel 5 such as New Lives in the

For something a little different, there’s

need somewhere to go in place of those

Wild, Extreme Dreams and Through Hell

also female ventriloquist Nina Conti

sunny pub gardens. Luckily the Assembly

and High Water. The busy star hasn’t

with her new show In Your Face on

Hall Theatre has a whole host of

stopped there though – he’s also written

Wednesday November 4. With the help of

entertainment over the coming months,

six Sunday Times bestseller books and

Monkey and a bag of tricks, truly anything

so whether you’re looking to hear from an

is an ambassador for WWF, Medecins

can happen in this unmissable improvised

explorer or enjoy the magic of pantomime,

Sans Frontier, Tusk, Centrepoint and the

adventure of hilarious witchery.

here’s some highlights coming to the

Princes Trust, a fellow of the Royal

theatre soon.

Geographical Society and patron of The

family pantomime Cinderella from

Royal Parks Foundation.

Friday December 11 to Sunday January

Action man Ben Fogle comes to the theatre on Monday October 5. Ben, who

For theatre fans and mystery lovers,

Last but not least is the traditional

3, starring Dani Harmer, one of the

has rowed the Atlantic Ocean, crossed

from Monday October 12 to Saturday

biggest stars of children’s television in

Antarctica on foot, run across the

October 17, there is Agatha Christie’s most

BBC history; known to millions of

Sahara and crossed the Empty Quarter

popular and best-selling thriller And Then

children for her starring role in CBBC’s

on camel will be sharing an audiovisual

There Were None. Marking the 125th

highly successful series The Story of

presentation on his wild life.

anniversary of the ‘queen of crime’’s birth

Tracy Beaker and Tracy Beaker

and the 10th anniversary of The Agatha

Returns. Joining Cinderella will be

how he, a self-confessed urbanite,

Christie Theatre Company, the show stars

Eastenders’ Louise Jameson as the

became drawn to and so enamoured

West End and TV star Paul Nicholas

Fairy Godmother.

with adventure, travel and the harsh

(Jesus Christ Superstar, Cats, Just Good

challenges associated with a life in the

Friends), Colin Buchanan (Dalziel and

Assembly Hall Theatre

wilderness. Ben’s presentation will take

Pascoe, Dangerous Corner) and Susan

Crescent Road,

you from his first adventures travelling

Penhaligon (Bouquet of Barbed Wire,

Tunbridge Wells TN1 2LU

across South America, to some of the

A Fine Romance).

Box office 01892 530 613 or book online

In Call of the Wild Ben will recount

toughest trials known to man.

On Tuesday November 3 there’s a

on www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

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FROM THE ARCHIVES

approached the governing body at the time, the Board of Commissioners.

The Board was a relatively loose congregation of local figures considered to be important and wealthy. When the topic of discussion was of great interest, the numbers involved in debates reached over 100 Commissioners, but when Webber brought forward his appeal, he was largely ignored.

Undeterred, Dr Webber took his case direct to the Home Office, hoping that they would send a Government Inspector to Tunbridge Wells so he could investigate the situation in a bid to find a solution.

At this point our tale begins to sour.

A number of London based daily newspapers got wind of the story and

SECRET

THE RIOT ACT Rioting on the streets of Tunbridge Wells?

Surely not! Trust us, it happened and it was all down to one hapless doctor, just trying to do his job

I

began publishing articles noting that TW had a rather unsavoury problem n the year 1864, while the

with waste disposal. Tunbridge Wellian

American Civil War raged on the

vendors who relied on the tourist trade

other side of the Atlantic, the

were enraged and blamed Webber for

town was facing an uprising of

highlighting the issue to potential

its own, a violent affair of which TW has rarely seen the likes of since.

It all began with a local surgeon, a

aristocratic holidaymakers.

The traders were so irate at what they perceived to be a smear campaign

certain Dr William Webber, who moved

against the town, that on the

to Tunbridge Wells in the mid 19th

November 3 1864 they assembled in

Century. Our GP was a caring chap and

an angry mob outside No.7 Mount Sion,

shortly after settling in during the

Dr Webber’s house. The protest is said

autumn of the year, decided to see if he

to have turned into a riot which lasted

could help prevent illness, as well as

several days during which Webber

just curing it.

cowered in his house while his windows

Webber began to wonder whether the drainage of the town was up to scratch

were smashed and abuse thrown.

Eventually, emergency Special

and worried that unsanitary conditions

Constables were sworn in from other

around the housing might be having a

areas to help quell the maddening

rather nasty impact on the health of the

crowd and several ringleaders of the

inhabitants of our thriving spa

riot were arrested.

settlement.

The good doctor was right to worry as

Four years later, though, the town’s drainage systems were significantly

the local waste ‘system’ would have

updated, creating two sewage farms

most likely been thrown together

on the outskirts of TW.

decades earlier in the wake of the great

It’s nice to know Dr Webber’s efforts

developments by such architects as

were not totally wasted, though it does

Decimus Burton and his protégé,

seem a little sad that the riot came

William Willicombe.

about because of one man’s brave

Webber saw a real danger to the

attempt to help out a few locals.

health of locals with regards to the town’s drainage. At the time, TW lagged behind cities like London when it came to Victorian inventions such as integrated sewers.

In an attempt to remedy what he perceived to be an injustice against the people of the town, Dr Webber

224

The crusading Dr Webber subsequently attempted to set up a Riot Protection Fund, presumably to help others who found themselves in his position, but failed to solicit a single supporting donation from townsfolk.

There’s gratitude…

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