So Sevenoaks December 2015 by One Media

U O EETO Y FRGIFT

UR O

GET READY TO SHINE

SEASON’S GREETINGS TO ALL OUR READERS IN

SEVENOAKS

OUR GORGEOUS PARTY LOOKS

december delights Don’t miss out on the festive fun

PAGES of HOMES and INTERIORS

social scene 100 PICTURES FROM SPECIAL EVENTS - WERE YOU THERE?

UNDERCOVER EATER

Which restaurant took an hour and a half to serve a simple lunch?

How will the New Year unfold? WE ASK LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS

NIGELLA IS BACK

IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS DECEMBER 2015 WWW.SOMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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PRE-OWNED CLASSICS

ELL SPENT • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

WE CAN HELP YOU FIND THE WATCH YOU'VE ALWAYS DREAMED OF OWNING. COME AND VIEW OUR PRE-OWNED COLLECTION IN STORE

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Season's Greetings from Rencraft

Designers and makers of handmade kitchens

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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

81 Calverley Road Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN l 2UY Tel 01892 520730

www .rencraft.co.uk

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A festive feast for the senses ... delicious food, happy chatter, rustic pottery, pure linen and dancing candlelight Hanley candlesticks from £25; Greenwich wine glasses £40 for 6; Linen tablecloth in Peat £77; Bowsley tableware from £7; Holborn tea light holders £32 for 6; Scatter cushions from £40

Create your own designs at neptune.com Neptune Tonbridge, 1-2 Tannery Road, TN9 1 RF, 01732 351866, info@neptunetonbridge.com

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NEPTUNE

25/11/2015 10:17

M A G A Z I N E

CONTENTS

EDITOR’S LETTER

16 Lonsdale Gardens Tunbridge Wells Kent TN1 1NU Tel: 01892 779 650 www.somagazine.co.uk

EDITOR Charlie Bond cbond@onemediauk.co.uk HEAD OF DESIGN Rowena Cremer-Price rcremer-price@onemediauk.co.uk HEAD OF SALES Joe De Kwant Stoner jstoner@onemediauk.co.uk EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Richard Moore rmoore@onemediauk.co.uk PUBLISHED BY

WELCOME TO YOUR DECEMBER ISSUE OF SO It’s Christmas time, there’s no need to be afraid… yes, they might be Sir Bob’s words, but this month I’m definitely echoing his sentiment. As the big day draws closer and panic (and by panic, I mean ‘festive joy’) sets in, in this issue we’ve got everything you need to have a cracking Christmas. If, like me you dread wrapping the presents, then help is on hand! We’ve spoken to the experts at Hoopers to find out how they tackle even the trickiest shaped gifts (pg 14). It’s refreshing to know that they still get paper cuts, although I doubt all of their presents end up with cat hair stuck to the Sellotape like mine do… Decorating the house for Christmas is one of my favourite parts of the festivities, but imagine having to dress an entire manor, complete with 22ft tree like the housekeeping team at Ightham Mote do (pg 180). However, if you need some inspiration, head to page 173 where we’ve rounded up some of our favourite festive decorations you can get your hands on to give your home some sparkle. Speaking of sparkle, ‘tis the season to party, and this can only mean one thing…a new outfit. Forget buying presents for your nearest and dearest, what you really need is one of the dazzling dresses we’ve picked out on page 53. Plus, I’ve tried and tested some of the best foundations on the market (pg 63) so you can be party ready from head to shoe. The gorgeous Nigella Lawson is back on our screens this Christmas, so in this issue we take a look at her recent successes both in and out of the kitchen (pg 41) while our very own celebrity chef Rosemary Shrager gives us a festive recipe on page 129. I hope you all have a very merry Christmas, and I look forward to seeing you in 2016. Mind how you go with those paper cuts…

CONTENTS

EDITOR cbond@onemediauk.co.uk

10 NEWS

65 SPA TIME

Phenomenal fundraising

Pure indulgence at

for charity

Utopia spa

11 LETTERS

81 CHRISTMAS CRACKERS

Time to get carolling?

Festive facts and toy trivia

28 FESTIVE FLASHBACK

100 SOCIAL

See Westerham in 1920

Masterchef meals in Tonbridge

40 THE CELEBRITY

180 INTERIORS

Nigella Lawson’s

Much merriment at

big return

Ightham Mote

DECEMBER 2015

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MODEL SHOWN P75008 - ÂŁ41, 711 * KRIEDER SHOWROOM - 3 Chape l Pl ace, Tun bri dge We ll s, Ke nt TN1 1YO - 01892 619721 - info@kri eder. com - www.kri ede r. com *Price shown includes delivery, cabinet furniture, appliances, worktops and VAT

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NEWS

Sevenoaks

NEWS...

OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT SOME OF THE LOCAL STORIES MAKING THE HEADLINES yet been approved, Dunton Green’s Station Road could soon benefit from six new semi-detached homes, each with individual drive way and charging stations for electric cars. The Free Church was put on the market in 2012 because of its decline in attendees.

CHARITY CHAMPION After years of campaigning and fundraising, a dedicated Sevenoaks woman has raised an amazing £100,000 for Breast Cancer Care. Having been diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago, Steph Harrison has dedicated a huge amount of time and energy into raising money by organising huge events, including Sevenoaks Pink Week, a festival of local businesses and residents all wearing pink and supporting Breast Cancer Care. “Steph’s achievements are huge and we are so grateful for her dedication and support,” says Samia Al Qadhi, chief executive of the charity. “As one of our most active supporters, Steph has always been a huge asset to the charity, but to reach a £100,000 fundraising total is phenomenal!”

WELLBEING WINNERS The Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council are the first council in the county to receive the Kent Healthy Business Award. This accolade, awarded on the merit of standards being met in mental health, physical activity, leadership and alcohol misuse, is an initiative launched in 2014. The Kent County Council introduced the award to encourage businesses to keep their staff happy, healthy and environmentally friendly. “The health and welfare of our staff is

TOP TITLE

extremely important to us,” comments Cllr Maria Heslop, Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Services.

The Good Pub Guide has awarded The Plough in Ivy Hatch with the title ‘Kent dining pub of the year’. This accolade came as a result of their dedication to locally produced foods. So local, in fact, that they keep Oxford Sandy and Black pigs on site from spring through to autumn and tend a flock of chickens for their fresh eggs. “We offer things that people see as luxurious and indulgent treats, like our rare breed steaks and pork,” says The Plough landlord, Miles Medes. “We always focus on quality and like to give our customers something which they wouldn’t normally have in their fridge.”

MAGICAL MALLING

LINGERIE LEADERS

The Rain Grill kebab shop in West Malling unveiled a plaque commemorating the Beatles last month. The plaque reads ‘The Beatles 1960s Rock Band filmed the start of the Magical Mystery Tour here 1967.’ The blue plaque on West Malling High Street marks the retail unit which was once newsagent visited by Ringo Starr in the Magical Mystery Tour film.

Sevenoaks lingerie shop, Lovell and Vie, received industry recognition at the Stars Underlines Best Shop Awards 2015. Presented by ex-Strictly Come Dancing star James Jordan, these prestigious awards were held at The Underglobe venue at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in London. Lovell and Vie of Hollybush Lane was shortlisted in the lingerie, swimwear, nightwear and legwear sector for Stars Best Shop recognition of excellence. Kari Keating, a co-founder of Lovell and Vie, says “we have been shortlisted among some really big players in the lingerie industry so it’s exciting for us to be finalists in such good company.”

DEMOLITION DUNTON Plans have been revealed for the disused Dunton Green Free Church, with proposals of a new housing development. Although these changes have not

DECEMBER 2015

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LETTERS

...AND VIEWS

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

RUSSEL TOWNSEND, Hildenborough Ed: Seeking all health enthusiasts!

MAKING A LIST When my family ask me what I’d like for Christmas (usually in September) I never have an answer. Thankfully though, your fashion shoot in the November issue has inspired me. There were so many gorgeous items, so I’ll be sending my nearest and dearest off to Tunbridge Wells with a very long list and a map of the High Street so they can find the fab boutiques for themselves. ALEXA STONE, Westerham Ed: You might need to put a new wardrobe on that list too…

BREAKING RECORDS My company is set to take part in some fundraisers in the coming months so I checked out the Guinness Records book for achievable feats, when I saw that the record number of carol singers stands at 25,272 competitors. Sevenoaks has a population of about 18,500 people so we’re nearly there… Imagine how much money we could raise if everyone in the surrounding villages came to participate, and we could even smash a new world record! MARY WEST, Sevenoaks Ed: This idea is music to our ears!

mix wasn’t dry enough, the sticks all fell out of the sponge and the mess was unbelievable… I’ll be buying them from the bakery next time! LEIGH SPENCER, Tonbridge Ed: We say ‘stick’ to what you know!

DIET DILEMMA

CAKE CRISIS I recently attempted to make cake pops for my kids for the first time, as they needed something to take to school for a bake sale. Cake pops are little balls of sponge on lollipop sticks with creative decoration. I wanted to share this experience with you all so that you might pay heed to my tale. I looked at a few different recipes online and got cracking on my own creations, thinking “this will be a breeze!” The cake

In previous years, I have relaxed my diet throughout December so that I can indulge myself at Christmas time and enjoy good food and drink with family and friends. However, with each passing year, I have been finding it harder and harder to shift the pounds when I restart my diet on January 1. I was wondering if any So readers had any tips for me to get back into the swing of eating healthily and staying motivated come the New Year?

JEERING THE UNDERDOG My daughter plays netball for a local club and I always go along to support the team. I stand on the sideline along with other parents from the club and I was disappointed to hear some of the ‘supportive’ comments which were being called out to the players recently. I’m sure your daughter is the best thing since sliced bread, and I’m sure the umpire is being completely biased towards the other team, but I really don’t think there’s any excuse for shouting such un-sportsmanlike comments across the court. GILL DRAPER, Sevenoaks Ed: That’s not very ‘sporting’ of them...

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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HAPPY DIAMONDS

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

~. (!Collin~ & ~on~

---------.路--------63 High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TNl lXU Tel. 01892 534018 I Fax. 01892 510536 Email. info@gcollinsandsons.com I www.gcollinsandsons.com

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INTERVIEW

CRAIG MATTHEWS

It’s a Wrap The visual merchandising team at Hoopers in Tunbridge Wells tell us what it’s like wrapping up Christmas…

When do you start preparing for Christmas at the store, and what’s involved in the preparations?

give neat finish, and secure with small piece

We start thinking about Christmas window

we wrap ribbon around box, with a twist

and in-store themes in about May or June.

where bow is to go, and make sure rest

We have to come up with ideas, source

of ribbon is flat. Lastly we tie the bow

props and manufacturers and also do lots of

and attach the gift tag.

of tape. We fold each end to look like envelope and secure with tape. Then,

planning.

What time does your day at work begin? We work store opening hours, so that’s

How long does it take to wrap a gift? On average it takes five to 10 minutes, depending on the size of the present – we try and use boxes as this makes wrapping easier.

Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm, Saturday 9am to 6pm and Sunday 10.30am to 4pm.

How many gifts do you wrap a day? Lots! We have a free gift wrap service through

What else do you do other than gift wrapping over the festive season?

December. We are especially busy during our

As visual merchandisers in Hoopers, gift

busier the closer it gets to Christmas.

Gala Day, which is December 3 and we get

wrap is an extra job we do to support the sure that all the displays throughout the

Are there any tricky shaped gifts that require a bit of extra thought?

store are looking good at all times.

Any unusual shape gift we try to put into a

store, so we also spend our time making

gift box, but we do have a technique for f, like us, you find wrapping your Christmas gifts more stressful than

Do you have to undertake any wrapping training?

cylindrical items, by cutting and folding.

shopping for them, then it’s good to

Training is key, so that our gift wrapping

know that help is on hand. Rather

is consistent. Training is mainly so that

Do you ever sustain wrapping related injuries?

than hiring elves to get creative with

everyone who does gift wrap is doing

We do get paper cuts and sore fingers from

the Sellotape and bows, Hoopers have

it the same way.

folding and creasing edges of paper!

Between them, Martin Brockbank, the

What wrapping techniques do you learn?

store’s visual merchandising manager

We use boxes whenever possible,

When it comes to wrapping your own presents at Christmas, do you lose enthusiasm?

and visual merchandisers Lydia Card

then measure paper so that it covers box on

As creative people we always take a pride

and Rosemary Goacher have almost 40

all sides, with some to fold over. Then we

in wrapping all presents, family, friends or

years of experience in making the

put goods into the box; clothing is wrapped

customers. It does mean that we quite

store look festive and getting

in tissue and if the goods are smaller than

often get asked to wrap though, and not

innovative with the wrapping paper.

the box we add extra tissue to stop

just at Christmas…

We go behind the scenes to find out

movement. We then wrap paper around

how they make the magic happen…

the box, with a fold on the outside edge to

their own team who are trained to wrap even the trickiest of presents.

www.hoopersstores.com

DECEMBER 2015

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Swarovski Tunbridge Wells Royal Victoria Place Tunbridge Wells, TN l 2SS

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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

, .,

Working together to protect your future Wills Powers of Attorney Probate & Estates Court of Protection Trusts & Trusteeships Inheritance Tax Capital Gains Tax

Tonbridge: 01732 770660 Sevenoaks: 01732 747900 www.warners-solicitors.co.uk

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PERFECT FESTIVE SETTING The magnificent manor house of Ashdown Park Hotel, nestling in its 186 acre estate in the heart of the Ashdown Forest, provides the perfect welcoming setting for traditional and cosy Christmas and New Year celebrations.

THE PERFECT GIFT If you' re looking for a Christmas gift for that person who has everything then our gift vouchers make the ideal present!

They can be used towards any experience at the hotel including afternoon tea, overnight stays and spa treatments. FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Christmas Fayre Lunch & Dinner - Tuesday lst to Wednesday 23rd December - from £26.00 Christmas Dinner Dance - llth & 18th December - £69.50 Christmas Party Nights - llth, 18th & 19th December - £62.50 Boxing Day Lunch-Saturday 26th December - £52.50 Christmas Day Lunch - Friday 25th December - £120.00 SOLD OUT New Year's Day Brunch - Thursday lst January- £52.50

Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club, Wych Cross, nr Forest Row, East Sussex, RH18 5JR

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St Julians Club t__AN eXCLUSIVE PRIVATE u'v[EMBERS' {LUE Sc Julians hosts many events for its members throughout the year. Coming up soon, we have our fantastic Christmas-themed Pub Quiz and Christmas Eve raffie. Many of our members also cake a break from the seasonal mayhem by booking a table at Sc Julians for the family - our Boxing Day lunch is particularly popular.

If you would like to come and have a look around the club, why not visit our Christmas Craft Fair on Sunday 29ch November? Open to non-members, it's the perfect opportunity to do a bit of Christmas shopping. Take a look at our website for further information, and to find out how to join.

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EVENTS

DECEMBER

CALENDAR

1ST » ALL HALO This month, local charity Burrswood is celebrating the spirit of Christmas with a month long festival of angels. Angels of all shapes and sizes will be made from a huge variety of materials, including a larger than life sculpture. A giant angel advent calendar will be created by people of all ages and displayed at Burrswood, Groombridge from December 1 to 31. Entrance is free, and donations are welcomed for the Christmas ‘Be an Angel’ appeal. Open daily from 10am to 4pm. For Information and tickets visit www.burrswood.org.uk or call 01892 865 985.

2ND » GARDEN GAMES

3RD » WONDERFUL WREATHS

4TH » FOREST FESTIVAL

Discover what the elves have been up to by following a festive adventure through Emmetts Garden. The elves have lost the reindeer’s name tags and can’t remember all their names – can you help Klaus and his elf friends discover what the names are using the clues, search for candy canes or draw your own reindeer? The trail runs daily from December 2 to January 3 from 10am to 4pm. Normal admission charges apply, £1 per trail including a small prize. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/emmetts-garden

Craft something beautiful to greet your guests this month, by signing up to take part in one of the Walled Nursery’s Christmas wreath making courses. On selected dates from December 3 to 12, you can unleash your creativity during a three hour session with nursery owner Emma Davies. Whether it’s traditional holly or pheasant feathers taking your fancy, you’ll be able to create a unique decoration. Classes cost £45 and run from 10am to 1pm. Festive refreshments provided. www.thewallednursery.com

Hadlow Church is getting into the festive spirit by holding its inaugural Christmas Tree Festival from December 4 to 6. Around 30 community groups, businesses and schools will be using their creativity and imagination to decorate their Christmas trees. The festival closes with a short carol service on Sunday 6 at 4.30pm. Three artists’ studios will also be opening their doors to the public over the weekend with Christmas gift offerings on sale by 16 local artists. Entry is free to both events. For timings, visit www.stmaryshadlow.org.uk DECEMBER 2015

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EVENTS

5TH » SANTA SCHOOL

LEWIS J BROCKWAY

For a one stop Christmas experience, visit Saint Ronan’s school in Hawkhurst on Saturday December 5. In the main house you’ll discover plenty of diverse and original stalls for great Christmas shopping, while outside Father Christmas will be present with his reindeer. Children can enjoy dodgem rides, and there’ll be lots of festive food and drink treats too. The market is open from 10am to 3pm and entry costs £3. www.saintronansmarket.co.uk

5TH » MAGICAL MARKET

5TH » FESTIVE FARM

6TH » CASTLE CUPPA

Get wrapped up in festive goings on for a whole day, when Tenterden holds its Christmas market event on Saturday December 5. From 10am to 8pm, the High Street will be transformed with the sights, sounds and smells of a traditional Christmas market. As well as a variety of stalls selling an array of gifts and Christmas items, there’ll be festive entertainment, fairground rides and children can visit Father Christmas in his grotto. Many of the town’s shops will be open late too, so you can purchase some unique gifts ready for the 25th. www.tenterdentown.co.uk/christmas

No family Christmas would be complete without a visit to see Father Christmas, and the Rare Breeds Centre’s festive Christmas grotto has become a much-loved tradition. On selected dates throughout the month, children can meet Santa’s elves and all his beautiful, real animals, before receiving a gift from the man himself. There’ll also be entertainment from the naughty snowman who will entice you into a Christmas sing-along and you’ll get a family picture to treasure. For dates, times and prices and to book, visit www.rarebreeds.org.uk

Take a break from mince pies mulled wine, and enjoy a different kind of sweet treat with a December afternoon tea at Chiddingstone Castle. From 3pm on Sunday December 6 and 13, visitors can indulge in a delicious, old fashioned tea in the castle’s beautiful White Rose Drawing Room or the grand Great Hall. A selection sandwiches, cakes and scones with homemade preserves and clotted cream will be served on delightful vintage china. Afternoon tea costs £18 for adults and £9 per child. Call 01892 872 746 to book

DECEMBER 2015

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EVENTS

12TH » HAVING A BALL Showcase your best Lindy Hop moves at this year’s Snow Ball in Tenterden. Organised by Tenterden Swing, the evening will see entertainment in the form of retro band The Devil’s Cut Combo, and 1960s and 70s music from local DJ Gypsy John. Held in the Tenterden Club from 7.30pm until midnight, the event will be raising money for Kent Air Ambulance with a raffle. Dress to impress and dance the night away to some golden oldies. Tickets cost £12. For more information, or to book, visit www.tenterdenswing.co.uk or call 07902 034 495

6TH » FROST FAIR

11TH » LIGHT THE WAY

17TH » NURSERY NOEL

Pick up gifts, decorations and everything you need for a fantastic festive season at the Bell Inn, Ticehurst when they hold a frost fair on Sunday December 6. Inside and out, stalls will be laden with everything you need for the perfect Christmas. The fair will be open from 11am to 3pm and entry is free. Seasonal refreshments will be available, and you can also enjoy a Sunday lunch after shopping (booking essential.) For more information, visit www.thebellinticehurst.com

Twilight Christmas at Hever Castle makes a wonderful outing for all the family. From 6pm on December 11, 18, 22 and 23, wrap up warm and witness the enchantment of the Castle and Gardens at Christmas. Bring torches and pop on your wellies to explore the Christmas trail. Marvel at camels ridden by three wise men bearing gifts for the newborn king who can be found at the nativity scene before visiting the Husky Hideout to hug a husky. For further information about Christmas activities, prices and booking Father Christmas visits, see: www.hevercastle.co.uk or call 01732 865 224

For a homegrown and homemade festive affair, head to King John’s Nursery in Etchingham for their first Christmas Fair. Held in the nursery barn, hand-picked stallholders will be selling their seasonal wares, vintage finds and unique gifts, while refreshments in the form of mince pies and mulled wine can be found in the café. To add to the magic, there’ll be an Elvish grotto for children to enjoy. Open from 11am to 4pm. For more information, visit www.kingjohnsnursery.co.uk DECEMBER 2015

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OUT AND ABOUT

 FESTIVE FLASHBACK

Elm View Mill, Westerham 1920 WITH THANKS TO BILL CURTIS

Have you got a local picture you’d like to see printed? Email info@somagazines.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

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SEVENOAKS

DECEMBER 2015

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TREAD CAREFULLY

Why do walkers think they’re invincible rather than invisible, asks Francesca from Bodiam

here are many things that displease me about winter. I despise getting up in the dark and getting home in the dark. I loathe having to de-ice my car in the mornings, wear three jumpers just to keep warm and pretend to enjoy The Pogues playing relentlessly on the radio. But, much more than all of the above, I hate winter pedestrians. I don’t know why, but as soon as darkness descends on our streetlight free country roads, people deem it a good idea to walk along them. In July, strolling along at 5pm is fine. In December it is not. The difference? The complete lack of visibility. You might be able to see the cars hurtling towards you, but we can’t see you, usually until it’s too late. “But we have no choice but to walk along the road,” I hear you cry. While this may be the case, you do have a choice over whether or not you can be seen. At least three times a week I come around a bend and just catch sight of some idiot by the roadside, who instead of having the common sense to wear high visibility clothing are adorned in head to toe black. What is wrong with these people? Do they not value their lives at all? Why do they think that wearing anything other than a full high-vis outfit complete with torch is acceptable? How can they honestly think drivers can see them if they’re traipsing along in black, burgundy, green, blue, or any other dark coloured clothing? It’s only a matter of time before one of these walkers is killed or

seriously injured as a result of their ignorance, but it won’t be them held accountable, it’ll be the driver. People won’t sympathise with the poor person behind the wheel who now has to live with this burden, they’ll point fingers and say they should have been driving slower. But why should we? I drive to the conditions, so if it’s icy, wet or foggy then yes, I’ll slow down, but the rest of the time I stick to the speed limit, which, on many of these roads is 50 or 60 – not an unsafe speed to be travelling at, but certainly not a speed you want to be hit at. And, while we’re on the subject, cyclists need to be more aware too. The other day I came so close to one I almost clipped his back wheel, and I had no idea he was there – he was wearing all black, had no lights, nothing reflective and wasn’t even wearing a helmet. I was so shocked by my near collision and his utter stupidity that I couldn’t even shout obscenities through the window at him as I passed. I have nothing against walkers or cyclists, and enjoy partaking in both activities even during the winter. But, in these rural parts it baffles me that so many people still think they’re invincible, when actually they’re invisible. I’m angry at their ignorance, and I’ll be even angrier when I read in a local paper that someone has been killed by an unsuspecting driver. I would strongly suggest that, with Christmas coming, you do us all a favour and add a torch and a nice reflective jacket to your wishlist. Or, just stay inside…

DO YOU HAVE A RANT YOU’D LIKE TO RELEASE? Email your views, in no more than 600 words, to 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.

DECEMBER 2015

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25/11/2015 10:32

ADVERTORIAL

Grandparents lose contact with grandchildren following family separation and divorce

It is always upsetting to see your children separate from their partners. It is even harder to then be prevented from seeing your grandchildren as a result for no satisfactory reason BY MAX BARFORD In over 50% of marriage or relationship breakdowns where there are children involved, grandparents are often prevented from seeing their grandchildren for no good reason. Unfortunately what’s often forgotten is the emotional damage and effect this has on the children, not only as a result of the breakdown of their parents relationship, but being isolated from loving and caring grandparents who could provide them with support and help during such a difficult time and with whom they have a close and loving relationship. We meet many Grandparents who are often of the view that they “have no rights” regarding their grandchildren and feel therefore that there is nothing they can do about the situation. This in fact is not the case. We are frequently asked what rights grandparents have when they have been denied the opportunity to spend time with their grandchildren through no fault of their own. The sad truth is that grandparents do not have an automatic right to seek assistance from the Family Court in this respect. However the Family Court does recognise recognise the invaluable role grandparents play in their grandchildren’s lives and there is therefore provision for grandparents to seek permission from the Court to make an application for an order that they are permitted to spend time with their grandchildren. It is very rare that the Court refuse a grandparent contact with their grandchildren and the Court will promote a meaningful and ongoing relationship, unless there is evidence to suggest that it would not be in the children’s best interests to do so. If the Court are satisfied that it is in the best interests that the children see their grandparents, it will grant permission to make an application for a “Child Arrangements Order” in the same way a parent would which will ultimately, if successful, set out when the children spend time with their grandparents. This Child Arrangement Order replaced the old ‘contact’ Order following new legislation which came into force on the 22nd April 2014. The Order sets out the arrangements regarding when a child or children spend time with their parents or Grandparents. The Order requires the person with whom the children live to allow the child or children

to visit the person or persons referred to in that Order. This may not only include time during the day, but may also include overnight stays including holidays, and other special occasions, for example birthdays. If you are successful with your application for a Child Arrangement Order, the Court have power, if satisfied that the person with whom the children live is wilfully refusing to abide by the Order, to punish that person which may, in some circumstances result in imprisonment. The Court can also impose a fine or unpaid work (community service). If all parties are agreeable it is possible to attend Mediation in order to try and resolve the difficulties without the need to resort to Court intervention. Mediation is a process where a trained Mediator in Family Law meet with the parties together or alone in order to explore whether or not the difficulties between the parties can be resolved and will assist in this process. Normally mediation takes place at regular intervals and can occur over a period of several months. As well as mediation, there is also the Collaborative process available which is a client centred approach which focuses on finding solutions to family problems using specifically trained collaborative lawyers working on a face to face basis. The Family Team at Max Barford Solicitors regularly assist grandparents who are

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ADVERTORIAL

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DECEMBER 2015

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DECEMBER 2015

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25/11/2015 09:56

CONFIDENTIAL BY TACITUS

NOTHING ESCAPES OUR ATTENTION

WHO got caught out in a paint pot scam? The accountant who ‘accidentally’ knocked over a can of gloss while redecorating her large lounge. Naturally she tried to claim for replacing the fawn coloured fitted carpet only to be told the insurance policy had not been renewed.That’ll teach you to check the policy first. Hubby, by the way, is still in hiding

WHO

WHY

WHO

needs to be more discrete in public places? That would be the high profile local politician standing by a lift at a charity event when a female member of his ‘staff’ walked by prompting him to declare that he fancied a ‘squeeze’ with her. Those who recognised him and heard him were taken aback.

did this gentleman end up blushing? Because when he took his car into the local garage for a service he accidentally left a packet of tablets on the passenger seat. They were Viagra. His discomfort was compounded when the mechanic winked at him when he collected the vehicle.

is this businessman the subject of much mirth? Because on a return trip to Essex he used the Dartford crossing where toll booths have been removed and motorists need to pay the £2.50 online. He thought it was now free – until being hit with fines of £140 for failing to pay his way. Office colleagues cannot stop chuckling.

attracts attention in her old jalopy? That would be the media madam who has a broom handle hanging out from under the bonnet. It’s attached to a piece of wire that in turn is attached to the release catch under the bonnet. She yanks the handle and up pops the bonnet. Genius.

WHO

WHY

WHO

WHAT

told a fib to cover up for a snappy puppy? The woman who left a new coat downstairs overnight in a carrier bag. Next morning she found the canine had chewed its edges. Undeterred she took the coat back to M&S, claimed it was faulty and received a refund. The nerve.

did this budding journalist fail to get his dream job? Because when he was invited by the Editor to attend the newspaper offices for an interview he turned up with his mother. She sat next to him during the chat chipping in throughout with comments about her ‘darling boy.’ Don’t hold the front page.

had probably the shortest job on record? Simples: The bar manager who turned up for her first shift much the worse for wear after celebrating a birthday. Within minutes she had upset regulars with her slurred speech, wobbly walk and unique approach to pulling pints. She was put in a cab and advised never to return.

happened when this mum got confused? She came out of the garage shop, having paid for petrol, and promptly climbed into the back seat of her car. It was only when she failed to find the steering wheel she realised her mistake. Daughter in front seat not amused.

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

DECEMBER 2015

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CELEBRITY

DECEMBER 2015

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CELEBRITY

THE RETURN OF THE GODDESS She’s back in our kitchens and in our hearts – it’s the return of Nigella, and this Christmas she’s bringing a slice of simplicity to the dinner table

s Nigella beams down the camera lens,

ever the campaigns against her, be they smear or

strolling jauntily through London she says

otherwise they were quickly quashed. The nation

these words to introduce her latest creation

found itself on ‘team Nigella’, rooting for her to

– Simply Nigella. Her BBC2 show, and accompa-

come through on top. Even Prime Minister David

nying book spell the return of one of the nation’s

Cameron jumped into the fray, when he admitted

sweethearts; the self-professed domestic goddess

in an interview that he was on “team Nigella,”

is back, and better than ever, as you can judge from

calling her a “very funny and warm person.”

these recent thoughts and comments. “I don’t believe it’s possible to live well without

Nigella’s funny and warm personality is certainly what’s won her a legion of fans. Since her first

eating well. Of course, this means different things

book How To Eat was published in 1998, the nation

on different days. But, whatever the day, I want

has fervently followed the making of Nigella

food that makes me feel good, not just when I’m

through her kitchen, books and TV shows. But,

eating but when I’m cooking it too. Simply Nigella

unlike other chefs, Nigella has never professed to

is about dishes that do just that; recipes that relax

be a professional. Or, a chef for that matter.

and restore, uplift and enrich. Food I’ve enjoyed

“I can’t stand a manicured plate, a thoughtfully

with family and friends as I’ve settled into my new

placed arrangement, form over content, concept

kitchen and where I am in my life right now.”

over taste. I want everything to tumble out in the

Where Nigella is in her life right now is a far cry

bowl and just be resplendent and welcoming as

from where she was back in 2013 when she last

it is. Perhaps messiness is not quite the right term

graced the cover of So. That year would be nothing

for my approach: ‘haphazard’ may sum it up more

short of tumultuous – her marriage to gallery own-

neatly.”

er Charles Saatchi publicly crumbled after he was

It’s hard to believe now that Nigella wasn’t always

pictured with his hands around her throat, and,

passionate about food. With 10 books on eating

after a quickie divorce in July 2013, their whole life

under her belt and international fame as a cook,

was raked through the courts that December when

it may come as a surprise that growing up, meals

their former cleaners were accused of stealing

weren’t something she relished.

from them. Allegations of drug use were thrown

“I had quite the wrong start for a future food-ob-

Nigella’s way, personal emails were scrutinised by

sessive: I absolutely loathed eating as a child. Or

the world and there were concerns that her career

perhaps more accurately, it was mealtimes I hated.

and name would be left in tatters.

And there weren’t, then, occasions for eating

For many stars, this would be the case, but not

outside mealtimes – or at least not in my home. My

for Nigella. After all, it’s hard to resist a woman

earliest memories of food are of sitting at the table,

who can make such delicious cakes. And so, what-

being told I had to eat everything on my plate.”

DECEMBER 2015

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mignight

25/11/2015 09:36

CELEBRITY

From the practically saintly gluten and dairy free date and marmalade Christmas cake, to the warming cider and five spice Bundt cake, it’s good to hear that despite looking after her body, she’s still partial to a slice of sponge While Nigella hasn’t been prolific in the media for

“I think of myself as someone who resists fads

the past couple of years, behind the scenes she’s

in food, but I have to admit that such protestations

been working hard on her return. 2013 saw her

might be looking a little puny. I have always been

head to America for The Taste which ran for two

an eclectic cook, mixing the comfort of the familiar

series, raking in 7million viewers in its prime. But,

with the exuberance of the new, and believing in

it was the announcement that she was returning to

balance. I don’t have the patience, skill or desire for

BBC2 for the first time in three years and releasing

complicated food, and I need what I cook to make

her first book since Nigellissima that marked the

me feel as happy when I cook it as when I eat it.

homecoming of the Domestic Goddess. From

The food I’m cooking now is simply the food I want

the release of her first book, Nigella has always

to eat. It doesn’t have a theme, but then life doesn’t

declared that her cooking reflects her life state at

have a theme.”

that time. “My books have always been snapshots of

Nigella has long been famed for her curves, but recent years have seen these somewhat diminish.

where I am at the time: through food I have charted

Whether this is due to private stresses or her nutri-

the stages and phases of my life; for me, the recipe

tious concoctions remains to be seen, but, refresh-

is a highly charged autobiographical form.”

ingly the 55-year-old doesn’t believe in dieting.

If How to Eat in 1998 was about Nigella accept-

“I have never been on a diet to try to lose weight.

ing her past and embracing motherhood, then

I feel like I haven’t lost weight, but I’m possibly

Simply Nigella is very much about appreciating

in better shape. I am doing a rather slow form of

the modest things in life. From recipes for avocado

yoga now called Iyengar. As you get on in life, you

on toast, to warm spiced cauliflower and chickpea

value feeling well as opposed to looking well. Yoga

salad with pomegranate seed, these dishes are,

certainly makes you feel great, and you want to

for the most part, (save the indulgent ‘dark and

carry on feeling great. I just do a bit in a very slow

sumptuous chocolate cake’) wholesome, and, dare

way. Sometimes, lying down!”

we say it, healthy. Unlike Nigella’s previous efforts,

With Christmas around the corner, and a TV

Simply sees the use of ingredients such as chia

special called Simply Nigella Christmas, due to air

seeds, flaxseed and matcha. So has she jumped on

over the festive season, surely Nigella will be in-

the current ‘clean eating’ bandwagon and ditched

dulging? Her new book contains a variety of festive

all of her former indulgent delights?

offerings, from the practically saintly gluten and

DECEMBER 2015

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CELEBRITY

dairy free date and marmalade Christmas cake, to

“I know this is not true for everyone, but I feel

the warming cider and five spice Bundt cake, so it’s

that cooking is a way of strengthening oneself: not

good to hear that despite looking after her body,

being able to feed oneself to me feels like a state

she’s still partial to a slice of sponge. “My body is a finely tuned

of victimhood; being able to sustain oneself is the skill of the survivor.

instrument, I can tell what I want

And I am no victim, but very much

to be eating. I think [people] eat

a survivor! Everyone should be, or

too much sugar because they are

make sure they become one.”

constantly trying to deny it, and

As we head into the festive

then go on a binge. But if you have

season, and beyond into 2016,

a perfectly normal, balanced diet

Nigella is embracing the here

nothing terrible is going to happen

and now. She’s back where she

to you if you had a slice of cake on

belongs – on our bookshelves, TV

Saturday night…I love kale and I’m

screens and in our kitchens, as we

an avocado obsessive. But life is

attempt to make our salads, cakes

about balance, it’s not about being

and even avocado on toast look

smug. You don’t eat things because you think they’re good for you.” Whether Nigella has been portrayed as the victim or the survivor over the past few years remains

half as good as hers does. And, if we could have a pinch of her attitude and a sprinkle of her vivacity, that would also do, too. “This is what Simply Nigella says, and it is an

undecided – perhaps it is the case that she is

aptly simple message: ‘here’s where I am; here is

both, although she doesn’t see it that way. The

my food: this is what my life tastes like right now.’

media may have been quick to define her as the

And it’s tasting pretty good to me.”

destroyed party, but in her eyes, that is, and was

never the case. Just as she believes her recipes

Simply Nigella Christmas airs this month on

reflect her life state, she also advocates that the

BBC2. Her book Simply Nigella is published by

ability to cook is a power in itself.

Chatto & Windus, RRP £26

DECEMBER 2015

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23/11/2015 12:36

endorsed by

the stars.

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23/11/2015 13:03

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25/11/2015 09:37

THE LOOK

FASHION INSIDER

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

or a good part of my life, power dressing for women involved shoulder pads, precise tailoring and towering

heels. It was these key features to a women’s outfit that gave her a chance to show she meant business and exert her authority. However this past season has seen a new movement towards a more relaxed, practical yet beautifully crafted

TRANSITIONAL FASHION A great piece to help transition your wardrobe into autumn is a waistcoat like this two-toned cashmere one by Linea

wardrobe. This latest shift in fashion has allowed women to communicate their own confidence through a more laid back, fuss-free style of clothing. Starting with shoes, heels are now becoming more of an occasion accessory whereas flats are becoming the ultimate must-have to a stylish outfit. This is particularly good news for those of you who struggle with heels – another good reason for me to recommend you embrace this trend, which I predict will stick around for a while. Make the most of it by investing in a pair of gorgeous brogues like these ones from the Best of British Brogue range at Marks and Spencer for £165. Another significant move in power dressing is the fluid femininity of garments combined with rich textures, cuts and colours. From

style

quality knits to leather bags, flowing trousers and silk tunics, you will find that you have an abundance of choice from designers to our favourite high street shops to create unique looks for your casual as well as work wardrobe needs. Another trend in power dressing which might appeal to you

“FASHION IS WHAT YOU BUY. STYLE IS WHAT YOU DO WITH IT” UNKNOWN

depending on where you see your own style

TIP Experiment with lip colour for this festive season. A bold lip changes the entire feel of an outfit.

fitting in amongst the main trends is the androgynous look. With buttoned up shirts, muted coloured jumpers and some masculine tailoring thrown into the mix, this can be another powerful yet relaxed way to make a style statement. So with fashion turning its attention to a vast array of different style personalities, where do you think your style best fits in: are you a minimalist, an eccentric, a debutant, a boho or a mixture of the above?

Catherine de Crèvecoeur

Splurge vs Steal A must have shoe this season, a good, sturdy boot to pair with jeans as well as a knitted jumper dress – these ones from Dorothee Schumacher are a brilliant addition to your winter wardrobe (£507, www.dorothee-schumacher. com). Or, invest in this pair from Dune for an equally edgy look (£99, www.dune.com).

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THE LOOK

THE FRONT ROW

WE BRING YOU THE LATEST HEADLINES FROM THE FASHION WORLD

A HELPING HAND If you’re hitting London’s West End to pick up some gifts, then don’t struggle around the city laden with bags. A new service called Dropit has been launched – a hands-free shopping experience which allows you to buy items in stores and have them delivered in one go to your home no matter where you live in the UK. Various retailers offer the service, which can be purchased via an app, and bags can even be delivered the same day. Sounds like the perfect excuse to squeeze in a few extra gifts for yourself, too…

BACKED BY BECKS Christopher Bailey, the chief creative and chief executive officer of Burberry, and Victoria Beckham have been appointed the first patrons to the annual fashion students’ showcase, Graduate fashion week. Graduate fashion week takes place in London in June and is now in its 25th year. Bailey himself is a GFW success story, having won the gold award when he showcased in 1991. “Graduate fashion week is an incredibly valuable platform because it provides graduates with vital recognition for their talent, and in so doing it can become the catalyst to start an exciting career path,” he says. “That was certainly my experience, and I have seen it do the same for many others since.”

✶ Future Fashion In exciting news for budding British designers, Boden and the British Fashion Council (BFC) have announced the launch of Future British, a new collaboration that will support British designers as they build their businesses in the fashion arena. Over 12 months, the designers selected to participate in Future British will benefit from Boden’s expertise. As well as financial support, they will receive mentoring in all areas key to building a global brand, including product development, brand identity, PR and marketing. “I’m thrilled to announce our collaboration with the BFC to support start-up designer brands in Britain.” says Johnnie Boden. “The aim of Future British is to give these individuals the opportunity to succeed as the next big clothing brand.”

DECEMBER 2015

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23/11/2015 12:25

Style me

Buy Less. Wear more. Always feel fabulous.

6Joglduw

Are you a serial dieter, trying lots of the well-known plans and yet staying the same shape? Are diet plans a waist of time for you?

The Wardrobe Diet'" puts you back in control. If your clothes tell you that they feel tight, "eat less cake'; if loose, you can "eat more cake". A personalised, simple, step by step system to relieve all that dressing stress. The Wardrobe Diet"' helps you buy less, wear more, and always feel fabulous. It will enable you to keep your weight stable, wear your favourite clothes over several years and build up a wardrobe of clothes that always flatter you.

The Wardrobe Diet"' will • Save you time when choosing clothes • Save you heartache and indecision when opening your wardrobe • Save you money by enabling you to buy and keep clothes you love These clothes will motivate you to stay the same size. The size that you are happy with. l'f'

PURE® COLLECTION

NEW COLLECTION now

store

At Pure Collection, you'll find effortless luxury to enjoy every day. We specialise in beautiful cashmere, expertly crafted into stunning, versatile styles, to team perfectly with our elegant wardrobe staples.

V ISIT US IN STORE AND ENJOY

10% OFF QUOTE OFFER CODE SOMAG

38 High Street Tunbridge Wells, TN11XF OPENING TIMES Monday - Friday: 09:30-17:30 Saturday: 09:00 -18:00 Sunday: 10:00 -16 :00 tel 01892 541102

WWW.PU RECOLLECTION .COM Shop our winter sale in store now. Offer valid until 20th January 201 6 on full priced items only. O ffer not valid on sale items, is non-transferable and cannot be used in conju nction with another offer. No adjustments may be made to prior purchases. O ffer ca nnot be used in Pure Collection department store concessions or on their websites. For full terms and condi tions visit ou r website

DECEMBER 2015

p50_SO TW_DECEMBER15_Advert.indd 2

25/11/2015 10:01

ADVERTORIAL

HAVE YOUR CHRISTMAS PUDDING AND EAT IT Gay Richardson, creator of The Wardrobe DietTM explains how you can still get into that LBD this Christmas… CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT

HOW DOES IT WORK?

• save money, because we show you how to

YOUR BACKGROUND, AND HOW

It works because you use your clothes

shop effectively, mix and match what you have

YOU GOT INTO STYLING?

instead of scales. If your clothes feel too

and upcycle to breathe new life into current

I have always understood how clothes can

tight apply the brakes.

items to get the most value out of them.

make you feel, and can vividly remember my

We show you how to build up a collection

The key is to decide on the ideal size for you,

Dad giving me and my twin sister, aged four

of clothes that flatter you, are comfortable

then stick to it using your clothes as a guide. It’s

and a half, a dress with a tiny brown and

and up to date and make you look and feel

about making yourself a priority, becoming

white checked skirt, with appliquéd

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vegetables on it and I loved it. Everyone in

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benefits are far reaching. You are happier,

our family either sewed or knitted and my

any outfit required for your lifestyle.

healthier and this positivity touches everyone

uncles were tailors in Savile Row. Having always wanted to have a career

So it’s your clothes that motivate you to

and everything in your life.

stay the same size, then they always fit and

that helped people, and unable to be a nurse

you can dress without stress, every day. The

DOES THE THEORY NEED TO BE

due to a fainting reaction to blood and

money you save can buy you organic cake

ADAPTED IN ANY WAY FOR THE

needles, it was only a matter of time, about

and sought-after clothes!

FESTIVE SEASON?

45 years to be precise, when I found my

My mission is to bring The Wardrobe DietTM

That’s a tough one, as the festive season is

niche in the fashion/ styling world as a

to as many women as possible and change

all about eating and drinking and being

personal style coach. I trained at The London

their relationship with their bodies and clothes

merry! However, if last year’s LBD doesn’t fit

College of Fashion then started Style Me

to help them buy less, wear more and always

and you haven’t time to search for another

Confident Ltd.

look and feel fabulous in whatever size they

one, then applying the principles of The

feel happy with.

Wardrobe DietTM, you can eat less cake a few weeks before!

SO WHAT IS THE WARDROBE DIET? The Wardrobe DietTM empowers

CAN IT APPLY TO EVERYBODY?

you to throw away your scales,

Yes – and they can be any age, any shape

Please email “Yes please” to gay@

and let your clothes guide you.

and any size. Everybody on The Wardrobe

stylemeconfident.co.uk to be the first to get

If they feel too tight, eat less cake,

DietTM will:

our FREE 3-part video series “The Wardrobe

and if a tad loose, then you can

• save time (you always have something

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eat more cake! You don’t need to

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Or contact Gay on 07801 869179.

waste any more time starving

• save heartache (no clothes with the label

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yourself, stressing about what to

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further information.

wear and feeling frumpy.

reminders) and

WIN A STYLING SESSION You could win the first two steps of The Wardrobe DietTM, worth over £170, which includes a full colour analysis session and body shape guidance at the Style Studio, in West Worthing. To enter, visit www.somagazine.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

SO TW_DEC15_TheLook_FashionDietInterview.indd 3

24/11/2015 15:39

Wednesday 9th December

11:00 - 16:00

AVAILABLE AT MARK ADAM

MARK

ADAM

68 High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN 1 1YB

01892 616617

I info@markadam.co.uk

I www.markadam.co.uk

Open Tues - Sat 10.00 - 5.30pm

DECEMBER 2015

p52_SO TW_DECEMBER15_Advert.indd 2

25/11/2015 15:27

THE LOOK

TIME TO SHINE

LET THE FESTIVITIES BEGIN WITH THESE GORGEOUS PARTY LOOKS

MONSOON

BRORA

SPORTSMAX CODE

Velvet tunic dress, £179 www.brora.co.uk

Quartz maxi dress, £399 www.monsoon.co.uk

Printed fold dress, £205 www.houseoffraser.co.uk

NO1 JENNY PACKHAM

Silver stargaze hand-embellished evening dress, £225 www.debenhams.com

CASHARA

Multiway wrap, £55 www.cashara.co.uk

MARKS AND SPENCER

PHASE EIGHT

Autograph embroidered maxi, £129 www.marksandspencer.com

Nasia sequin top, £79 and skirt £89 www.phase-eight.co.uk

JIGSAW

Mongolian scarf, £98 www.jigsaw.co.uk

NATALIYA COUTURE

Mia-Bella dress in red, £430 www.littleblackdress.co.uk

YUMI

70s dip dye fur coat, £140 www.yumidirect.co.uk

TED BAKER

Eana technicolour bloom dress, £299 www.tedbaker.com

DECEMBER 2015

SO TW_DEC15_TheLook_Trend.indd 3

23/11/2015 12:20

£69 Onienu £79 Onjenu Gilet £149 Jaylay

Top

Trousers

Ladies Designer Wear, Accessories and Shoes The festive season is here at Kitch visit us for your party wear and lots of great gi~ ideas with

b ~ new

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1 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TNl 1UL

01892 513 613 www.kitchclothing.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

p54_SO TW_DECEMBER15_Advert.indd 2

25/11/2015 10:04

MARK

ADAM

PURE UNADULTERATED LUXURY AT CHRISTMAS

AVAILABLE AT MARK ADAM 68 High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TNl 1YB 01892 616617

I info@markadam.co.uk

www.markadam.co.uk

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25/11/2015 12:59

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23/11/2015 13:19

THE LOOK

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

SOCIAL STRESS

Research published to coincide with last month’s National Stress Awareness Day, has shown that social media is the go-to place for people to vent. Fifty thousand tweets relating to stress are posted on Twitter every day – with people tweeting about stress every two seconds. Family is the single biggest cause of stress, prompting 160 tweets an hour and accounting for 13% of all stress-related Twitter activity. Romantic relationships are responsible for 8%, with friendships contributing 2% of stress on Twitter.

PARTY PREP

PET RESCUE Tried everything from brandy to vitamins to get rid of winter colds to no avail? Perhaps a new pet could be your miracle cure. According to a study from Wilkes university in the US, stroking a dog for 18 minutes can boost immunoglobulin A antibodies that fight infection. Other research has found that babies brought up with pets have fewer colds and ear infections too. Seems like the perfect excuse…

If you’re looking for a way to stave off that post-Christmas hangover, then forget a morning fry-up as a cure. Professor James Schaefer, a researcher in alcohol metabolism has revealed that in order to avoid the effects of a heavy night, we should be eating greasy food prior to drinking. He claims that fatty foods ‘grease’ the lining of the stomach and intestines, meaning alcohol is absorbed slower. He also recommends eating pizza and chorizo in a bid to ward off the ill-effects of drinking. DECEMBER 2015

SO TW_DEC15_TheLook_Beauty_News.indd 3

23/11/2015 12:41

GREAT hair dressing &beauty First floor Hoopers

HAVE YOU TRIED US YET? Come and visit our calm, modern treatment rooms & experience ever!:Jthing from the essentials, such as waxing & threading, right through to ESPA ~ luxur!:J ESPA anti ageing ESPA facials, salt and oil bod!:J scrubs & ~- - . .nc hand and ....... foot care.

---

...,uoonn

Soothing Body Oil/

â&#x20AC;˘OIVINftY AOOHAl

IU NOJOIOOTHI

IOO'IANPMrNO

GREAT HAIRDRESSING & BEAUTY First floor, Hoopers, Tunbridge Wells g @gr8hairdressing l) GREAT hairdressing www.greathairdressing.com 01892 542015

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25/11/2015 09:41

Feel Divine... Look Divine Organic beauty that nourishes the soul

Warm up in the candlelit spa bath and sauna

Cocooned in our cosy candlelit treatment rooms enjoy time just for you. Secluded in your own private space you can totally relax knowing that you will receive nurturing combined with expertise. Beautifully presented Christmas Giji Vouchers. Treat your loved ones and yourself! Merry Christmas from the Pamper Team X

I Gym I Spa Days I Yoga I Bootcamp Beauty & Holistic Treatments I Dedicated PT Team Membership Pilates

Heated Natural Spring Water Swimming pool To book please call the Knowle Grange Beauty Team on

01892 750055 Beat theJarniar 1 rnsh and Jorn Knmlle Grange rn Decembcr and \\e'll gne 1 011 an extra months membership free

(beauty appointments are available to members and non-members)

Wadhurst Road, Frant, Kent TN3 9EJ www.knowlegrange.co.uk

174 Tonbridge Road , Hildenborou Tonbridge, Kent TN11 9HP Tel: 01732 832 004 www.c ndyknightclinic.com

DECEMBER 2015

p59_SO TW_DECEMBER15_Advert.indd 3

25/11/2015 10:07

THEGIFTWITHAN

THA

ANDAN

LAST ...

From fabulous spa days to afternoon tea and dining; Alexander House Hotel & Utopia Spa has the perfect selection of Christmas Gift Vouchers.

OUR

CHRISTMAS GIFT VOUCHERS INCLUDE... r---------------------------

i I I

Show a loved one how much you care with a luxury spa day. These include full use of all the stunning facilities including pools, hot tubs, relaxation rooms, heat treatments, classes and gym plus a delicious two course lunch.

MONEY VOUCHERS

Our afternoon tea gift vouchers

Ranging from £25 to £1000

make a thoughtfully delicious

our money vouchers are

surprise. Treat someone to

a gift that guarantees

a gift of warm scones, dainty

a genuine 'thank you!'.

desserts and fresh fancies,

Vouchers can be redeemed

served in one of our stylish

against dining, spa days

afternoon tea lounges.

and overnight breaks.

FOR lv10RE GIFT IDEAS AND TO BUY ONLINE VISIT

ALEXANDERHOUSE.CO.UK OR CONTACT 01342 714914 Alexander House Hotel & Utopia Spa Turners Hill, East Grinstead, Sussex RH10 4QD

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ALEXANDER HOUSE HOTEL AND UTOPIA SPA

23/11/2015 13:05

THE LOOK

BEAUTY

bulletin Here are some of our favourite new hair and beauty discoveries this month

NAILS INC

PAINT CAN SPRAY ON NAIL POLISH, £10 This amazing new product from Nails inc is ideal for those who struggle to achieve the perfect manicure. The new technique applies polish evenly and efficiently in seconds, with only the additional application of a base coat. Users simply spray onto the finger tips where the polish adheres to the base coat, while excess polish can be removed quickly by washing away with water or facial wipes. At the moment it’s only available in silver and pink, but we’re sure there’ll soon be a whole range. www.nailsinc.com

WAITROSE

CLINIQUE

HERITAGE COLLECTION, FROM £1.99 They’re known for their superior supermarkets, but now Waitrose has branched out and released their own skincare range, with bath and beauty products on offer. The heritage collection blends floral scents inspired by Waitrose customers’ favourite flowers, with subtle fruit and woody undertones. The range includes a hand wash, hand and body lotion, hand cream, body wash, bath wash and body butter in each of these blends – Jasmine & Peony, Freesia & Pear and Orchid & Honeysuckle. www.waitrose.com

DHC

MINERAL MASK, £29 Cult Japanese brand DHC has introduced mineral mask a multi-tasking, porepurifying clay mask. This deep cleansing oil-absorbing mask draws out impurities from pores with mineral-rich and naturally clarifying kaolin and bentonite clays. The mask also features antioxidant-rich soy, nourishing chlorella, soothing aloe and brightening mulberry. The result is a refreshed, refined, more radiant complexion. www.dhcuk.co.uk

MENDITTOROSA

SWEET POTS SUGAR SCRUB + LIP BALM, £15 Perfect for prepping your lips for winter, these handy new Clinique pots not only look like macarons, they also have a sweet treat inside. Available in six tints, the duo pots include a sugary exfoliator on one side and a soothing balm on the other. Just massage the scrub in with fingertips, tissue off and apply the balm for long lasting colour and moisture. Available January 2016. www.clinique.co.uk

LE MAT EXTRAIT DE PARFUM 100ML, £138 Exclusive to Selfridges, this scent is a warm, spicy, aromatic, unisex fragrance that will be great for the eclectic individual that likes to go for something different with their choice in perfumes. With each cap individually moulded by Tuscan sculptor Alessandro Reggioli and every bottle adorned with a handmade terracotta charm, this fragrance is pure exotic indulgence. www.selfridges.com

PALETTE LONDON

CREATE YOUR OWN NAIL PAINT, £25 If you ever struggle to find your perfect nail colour, then Palette London’s mixology set could be the answer. Five base colours – black, white, red, yellow and blue – are accompanied by a selection of empty mixer bottles and pipettes, so you can create your own custom shades. A handy colour chart gives you guidance, but you can also get creative and see what concoctions you can develop. www.boots.com

EXUVIANCE

COVERBLEND SKIN CARING FOUNDATION, £35.50 Available in 11 new shades and containing sunscreen, the newly reformulated CoverBlend Skin Caring Foundation from Exuviance not only targets ageing, it’s also smudge resistant and provides all day coverage and protection from UVA and UVB rays. Great for concealing blemishes as well as giving you a healthy glow, this foundation should definitely be one for the Christmas list. www.exuviance.co.uk

001 SKINCARE

EXFOLIATING AND CONDITIONING CLEANSER, £30 Newly reformulated with exciting new ingredients, 001’s exfoliating and conditioning cleanser now includes a balance of natural lactic acid and salicylic acid (BHA) to gently exfoliate the skin’s surface, removing dead cells and excessive sebum while cleansing. Removing all traces of dirt and impurities, this product leaves the skin soft and prepped ready for moisturiser. www.001skincare.com

DECEMBER 2015

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23/11/2015 12:36

What are you . wearing to your Christmas party?

Before

3 months post-liposuction Photos: Jason Erner, MD

VelaShape@ Non -Surgical Body Shaping

-- _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ The whole face approach

www.rtwskin.co.uk

01892 22 22 22 @rtwskin

rtwskin

support@rtwskin.co.uk

Royal Tunbri dge Well s Skin & Laser Cl inic, Co bden Ho use Med ical Centre. 25 Lo ndon Road. Tunbridge Wells. Kent TNl lDA

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23/11/2015 13:05

THE LOOK

A WEEK IN MAKEUP: FOUNDATION In the search for complexion perfection, Charlie Bond tests seven top foundations over a week… 1 MONDAY

4 THURSDAY

6 SATURDAY

CLINIQUE

ELIZABETH ARDEN

MAKEUP FOREVER

concealer, £25

makeup, £29

THEY SAY Created for the very latest high-

THEY SAY A foundation-and-concealer in

THEY SAY Offering the skin a medium to

definition technologies of the film and TV

one for a natural, beyond perfected look that

full coverage of colour-true make up that

industry, ULTRA HD advanced formulas look

lasts all day. Lightweight, moisturizing

will last for 24 hours. Boasting time release

invisible on 4K camera and to the naked eye.

makeup covers thoroughly without

technology, the foundation works to detect

WE SAY If you’re looking for the perfect

clogging pores.

the sebum levels in the skin and it helps to

foundation to wear to your Christmas party

WE SAY I’m always in a rush on a Monday

control the amount of excess oils produced

then this is the one. It’s easy to apply, lasts

morning, so this is perfect – as it’s a 2-in-1

by your skin throughout the day.

for ages and the handy stick formula means

you can save time by just applying the one

WE SAY I really liked this foundation as

you can reapply quickly. It looks great on

product rather than concealer too. The

a lighter option – it gives a natural finish

camera so is ideal for any big events.

wand applicator means you can apply to

and fresh glow, so it’s great for everyday

www.preciousaboutmakeup.com

specific areas, and it glides on smoothly,

wear. While I wouldn’t say it lasted 24

giving good coverage. It lasted well too, but

hours, it did stay put most of the day,

I found that where it adapted to my dry skin,

even withstanding a heavy

some areas had a little bit of a shine after a

lunchtime downpour.

few hours of wearing.

www.elizabetharden.co.uk

Beyond perfecting foundation +

www.clinique.co.uk

2 TUESDAY

BOBBI BROWN

Flawless finish perfectly satin 24hr

Ultra HD stick, £33.50

7 SUNDAY

YVES ST LAURENT

Fusion ink foundation, £31.50 THEY SAY YSL’s new foundation delivers

5 FRIDAY

flawless coverage that lasts up to 24 hours, while still feeling ultra-light on your skin.

MAC

WE SAY On Sundays I like to go for a more

Matchmaster SPF foundation, £29

natural makeup look, and this foundation

Skin foundation stick, £29.50

THEY SAY New foundation technology using

is perfect. It gives a lovely fresh glow, and

THEY SAY Its creamy yet weightless texture

translucent pigments to enable a fully

is so lightweight it barely feels like you’re

applies effortlessly and blends seamlessly so

personalised finish influenced by the subtleties

wearing anything, yet still gives great,

all you see is fresh, smooth, even skin.

of your own skin’s undertone.

long-lasting coverage.

WE SAY I’d heard nothing but good things

WE SAY I love Mac products but sometimes

www.yslbeauty.co.uk

about this foundation, so I was keen to try it for

find the foundation can be a little heavy for

myself. It’s easy to apply and gives great

everyday wear. The matchmaster could be a

coverage, but I found that after a few hours I

game changer though – it gives great, even

needed to touch up a bit. I’d recommend

coverage but is moisturising too. And, it lasts

setting with powder for a really flawless finish.

all day without the need for any touch-ups –

www.bobbibrown.co.uk

great for a Friday night!

3 WEDNESDAY

BAREMINERALS

www.maccosmetics.co.uk 1

Blemish remedy foundation, £26 THEY SAY Gentle yet effective, this nondrying, mineral-powered foundation conceals imperfections and helps reduce the appearance of imperfections for clearerlooking skin. WE SAY I’m usually sceptical about mineral foundations and their staying power, but this is a little pot of wonder. Not only did it last all day, any blemishes I did have quickly disappeared. It’s not heavy in its coverage, but it did give a really nice, even finish. www.bareminerals.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

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23/11/2015 12:44

PANTILES CLINIC - - - -

Reg's Story Concept™ Facelift

Aged 84 from East Sussex A facelift was something I often considered having, but was a little frightened about the long, drawn out procedure and recovery. The deciding factor with the revolutionary Concept™ Facelift at Bella Vou was the unique local anaesthetic method and the vastly quicker and relatively pain-free recovery.

The pre-surgical process was very smooth, from the very informative consultation to the actual planned arrangements for the surgery date. ' '

Grandad, you do look sooooo young! - Reg's Granddaughter

The surgical experience was a revelation, not just because of Amir, but the attending nurses were superb and although the duration of the procedure was longer, it was not a lot different than a trip to the dentist. I have made two post-surgical visits and again, absolutely faultless. From the courtesy of the receptionists, the wonderful, friendly welcome from the lovely Lisa, who always does everything in her power to make one feel special about oneself and of course once again Amir, and his lovely senior nurse Kathryn. I am so pleased with the outcome. I feel so good about myself and cannot believe how much better I seem to look. What an experience, one for which I will be eternally gratefull /)/;___

Surgeon's comments

Reg's age does not define him; he's young at heart. With visibly less deep wrinkles and greatly reduced loose skin to his face and neck, Reg now looks the way he feels inside. Reg's energy in life shows us that advancing years are no barrier to looking your best. - Amir Nakhdjevani MBBS. MRCS. FRCS (Plast.)

Lip Enhancement

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23/11/2015 13:06

THE LOOK

lavender mask encourage collagen production and my skin will be purified with vitality and tone improved and tension eased from micro muscles. I lie back and expect to feel products on my face, but this treatment actually begins with a relaxing foot scrub. Then, for the next 85 minutes, my face undergoes everything

ORGANIC UTOPIA

from nerve point therapy and lymphatic drainage to a mud mask and cleansing. This

From plankton to sea lettuce, Charlie Bond dives in to Ila’s new range of treatments at the Alexander House Utopia Spa...

is the longest facial offered at the spa, but the process is so thorough that the time passes quickly (although maybe I was so relaxed I fell asleep).

HERE AT SO we’ve long been fans of

introducing us to the products best suited to

Alexander House hotel’s Utopia Spa. Nestled in

our needs. I sneak a look at my guest. He’s

sumptuous afternoon tea, I’m warned that

the stunning Sussex countryside, the award-

merrily applying exfoliator.

because my skin has been so deeply

winning spa is the ultimate indulgence and the

Next, we’re led to our respective treatment

Before heading to the restaurant for a

cleansed and detoxified, I may experience a

perfect place to unwind. We hardly need an

rooms. He’s off for a neck, back and shoulder

slight outbreak over the coming days, but it’s

excuse to visit, but on hearing they’ve partnered

massage (£68), while I’m here to try the new Ila

a small price to pay for the radiance I’m

with luxury organic brand Ila, it seemed only

marine flora face therapy (£120). My therapist,

currently sporting.

right to take on the arduous task of experiencing

Jess, explains that the facial unites nutrient-

one of the new treatments on offer.

dense marine elements and nerve point therapy

helicopter, sorry, car and head home. “I think

to remove waste build up and encourage rapid

I might get massages more regularly…” my

repair of damaged or dehydrated skin.

fiancé pipes up as we wend our way back

Founded by Denise Leicester, a qualified nurse, aromatherapist, yoga teacher and yogic healer, Ila is a British spa brand offering

The entire Ila range is 100% chemical free

Indulgence over, we climb back in our

down the hotel’s grand driveway. It looks like

a luxury organic experience, combining pure

and every ingredient comes from a plant or

the spa convert by my side will be pushing

ingredients, ancient traditions and sustainable

mineral. So, when Jess tells me my face will

for a return trip to the Utopia spa very soon…

processes to create products that benefit you

soon be adorned in sea lettuce, sea lavender,

both inside and out.

bio-plasma seaweed and plankton, I’m

www.alexanderhotels.co.uk

concerned I’ve signed up for a deep sea

Alexander House Hotel & Utopia Spa

treatment menu on offer, Utopia has

dive. However, I’m reassured that the sea

Turners Hill, East Grinstead

introduced 18 new Ila experiences, including

lettuce detoxifies and boosts the lymphatic

West Sussex , RH10 4QD

being the first UK spa to offer the ‘gold cellular

system, the bio-plasma serum and sea

01342 714 914

In addition to the already extensive

age restore’ facial, and today I’m visiting to try out one of the new Ila treatments. When I break the news to my relaxation loathing fiancé, that we will be spending an afternoon donning fluffy robes and being pampered, he is sceptical at best. Although he is suitably impressed by the hotel and the helicopter that lands in its grounds as we arrive, he is adamant that he will not enjoy this experience. I however, believe otherwise. After a short stint letting our troubles float away in the jacuzzi, it’s time for a Temple Spa skincare class. Our therapist asks us to fill out a questionnaire about our skin types, before

DECEMBER 2015

SO TW_DEC15_TheLook_SpaReview.indd 3

23/11/2015 12:22

Reassurance in a heartbeat

The Wells Suite is able to offer a range of pregnancy ultrasound scans using state of the art ultrasound equipment. You might want to make sure that there is definitely a heartbeat at 6 weeks, check your baby's growth at 16 weeks, or want the reassurance of a detailed anomaly scan at 20 weeks. Whatever your reason we can offer expert advice and reassurance in a calm and relaxed environment.

What scans are available? • Early Pregnancy Scan/Viability Scan (6-8 weeks) • Growth and Well-being Scan (16 weeks to term) • Anomaly Scan (20-22 weeks)

Why choose The Wells Suite for your scan? • No referral letter required • Accredited midwife sonographers • Consultant advice available • Flexible appointment times, including evening and weekend appointments

To book a scan appointment, or for further information, please telephone 01892 635888.

The Wells Suite

The Wells Suite Your health in safe hands

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01892 635888

www.thewellssuite.co.uk

23/11/2015 13:06

RECEIVE A

FREE 15 MINUTE FITNESS AND LIFESTYLE CONSULTATION From our clinic in Tunbridge Wells we offer specialist treatment for a range of

musculoskeletal conditions including back pain, arthritic and joint problems and sports injuries. Right now we are offering free consultations to set you on the right path for treatment.

To arrange your free consultation with Herder Healthcare Tunbridge Wells CALL:

01892 529059 OR VISIT:

www.horderhea Ith ea re.co.u k

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23/11/2015 13:06

Listen to your heart SWIFT AFFORDABLE HOSPITAL TREATMENT THAT GETS YOU BACK TO THE LIFE YOU LOVE . You don't have to be an athlete to have your heart checked. Call today to get the personalised care you expect. · Echocardiogram - 24hr and 48hr monitoring · Echocardiogram · Exercise stress test · Instant check/ cardiac event recorder · 24hr blood pressure monitor · Cholesterol blood testing · Glucose blood testing

Telephone 01892 883638

Email tun.enq@nuffieldhealth.com

WHERE Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital Kingswood Road Tunbridge Wells TN2 4UL

Tunbridge Wells Hospital Kingswood Rood , Tunbridge Wells, TN2 4UL

; ; Nuffield Health FOR THE LOVE OF LIFE

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01892 552 932

www.nuffieldhealth.com

Hospitals + Health Checks + Physio + Gyms

23/11/2015 13:07

ADVERTORIAL

EXPERT OPINION

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE ON YOUR HEALTH, BEAUTY AND WELLBEING

SKI TO SAFETY

against thrombosis, pending your return

Before you take to the slopes, The Knee Clinic at Nuffield Health has this advice to help you avoid injury…

can do to reduce the risk of knee injury

home for further investigation, including MRI scanning, and treatment. There are a number of things that you whilst skiing. Firstly, before travelling, do what you can to improve your fitness, if

WITH THE SKIING season almost

increase the likelihood of injury and

necessary enrolling in a gymnasium or

upon us, many of you will be looking

failure of bindings to release is almost

undertaking exercise classes. Your

forward to a long anticipated holiday on

always associated with ligament sprains

physiotherapist will be able to give you

the slopes. Sadly, the onset of the ski season heralds a steady stream of skiers returning home with

and ruptures. Wipe outs occurring at speed will normally release bindings but can be associated

advice on postural exercise and the development of core musculature, and will also advise on agility and balance-

knee injuries, some of which

with very serious knee

related exercises which will improve your

will be significant.

injuries, including

postural control whilst skiing. When

dislocations and fractures.

skiing ensure that modern equipment is

Paul Gibb has treated hundreds of patients with skiing knee injuries during the past 20 years, many of whom are treated in The Knee Clinic

The hallmark of significant knee injury is a pop or tearing sensation associated with pain and the rapid subsequent

used and that bindings are properly adjusted. Ski well within your ability and avoid skiing when tired or fatigued. Always take particular care when

(www.kneesurgeryclinic.co.uk) that

development of swelling and stiffness,

alighting from chair or drag lifts and

he has developed in Tunbridge Wells,

with many injured skiers requiring

when pistes are very busy.

based at the Nuffield Hospital.

assistance to leave the piste. Most of these will have sprained or ruptured the

If you should be unfortunate enough to

knee ligament injuries occur whilst skiers

anterior cruciate ligament and this injury

injure your knee, seek medical advice

are travelling at relatively low speed, often

should always be suspected when a knee

early and try and organise MRI scanning

in the mêlée associated with alighting

swells soon after injury. Doctors working

if appropriate as soon as you return

from chair lifts, or on piste when skiers

in ski resorts are expert at diagnosing

home. The Knee Clinic can be contacted

turn awkwardly after traversing or

knee ligament injuries and will usually

at the Nuffield Hospital on 01892 546 111,

avoiding other skiers. Fatigue seems to

provide crutches, splints and protection

or email admin@kneesurgeryclinic.co.uk

You may be surprised to learn that many

DECEMBER 2015

SO TW_DEC15_TheLook_ExpertOpinion_Nuffield2.indd 3

23/11/2015 12:28

Spire

Tunbridge Wells Hospital

A new, minimally invasive procedure is now available to Spire Tunbridge Wells patients; The Urolift System with Consultant Urologist, Mr Alastair Henderson. Who is it for?

The benefits

The Urolift Device is a revolutionary treatment that offers fast relief to men who suffer with the following symptoms:

• General anaesthetic not required

• Frequent need to urinate during the day and night • Weak or slow urinary stream • A sense that you cannot completely empty your bladder • Difficulty or delay in starting urination • Urgent feeling of needing to urinate • A urinary stream that stops and starts

• Frequent lower urinary tract infections

• No overnight stay required • Preservation of sexual function • Patients can return to normal daily activities soon after treatment If you can relate to the above symptoms or have been told you would be suitable for alternative surgery, please contact us in confidence to find out more and whether you could be suitable for the Urolift System. Mr Henderson holds weekly clinics at the Spire Tunbridge Wells Hospital.

URC)ll FT~ BPH Relief. In Sight.,.

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23/11/2015 13:22

ADVERTORIAL

EXPERT OPINION

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE ON YOUR HEALTH, BEAUTY AND WELLBEING

GETTING TO GRIPS WITH CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME Tingling, aching hands, particularly at night, could be a sign of carpal tunnel syndrome. It can be a debilitating problem but Lisa Leonard, consultant hand surgeon with Horder Healthcare says there are a number of options for treatment.

arpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in

during their lifetime. Events such

which a nerve on the front of your wrist

as pregnancy and menopause

becomes compressed. The nerve is

can bring on the symptoms.

be of benefit are; wearing a wrist splint at night and steroid injections, which reduce

called the median nerve and provides

You are slightly more likely to

swelling in the area taking

sensation to your thumb, index finger, middle

get the problem if a close

pressure off the nerve. Steroids

finger and half of your ring finger. It also

family member suffers from it

supplies some of the small ‘fine tuning’

too. People with certain medical

muscles in your hand itself.

conditions such as diabetes,

injected like this do not have the worrying side effects of those taken by mouth which you may have

rheumatoid arthritis and an under active

read about.

SYMPTOMS

thyroid are also prone to it. Usually, however,

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome usually

there is no obvious cause for the condition.

Surgery is an option for people whose intrusive symptoms don’t respond to nonsurgical treatment or for those who start to

come on gradually over time but sometimes start very quickly and progress rapidly. They

DIAGNOSING CARPAL

develop signs of permanent nerve damage at

often include an intermittent feeling of ‘pins

TUNNEL SYNDROME

their fingertips.

and needles’ in some, or all the fingers

The diagnosis is made by listening to your

supplied by the nerve. This is often worse at

symptoms and examining you to see if there

95% of people. The procedure only takes

night but during the day it can be set off by

is any evidence of pressure on the nerve.

about 10 minutes and is nearly always carried

activities such as driving, reading a

There are other conditions that can give you

out under a local anaesthetic. You don’t need

newspaper or holding a phone to your ear.

tingling in your hands and these might need

to stay overnight in hospital and can usually

Some patients get pain on the front of their

to be excluded as a cause of your symptoms.

go back to work after a couple of weeks –

forearm which can at times be very

Other investigations might be useful if this is

depending on what you do. If you have tried

unpleasant. Later on the hand can feel weak

thought to be a possibility.

non-surgical treatments to no avail then

The operation reliably cures the problem in

surgery could be an option for you - ask your

and uncoordinated and some people find it

GP to refer you to a specialist.

difficult to perform fine tasks such as doing up

TREATING CARPAL

buttons. One or both hands can be affected

TUNNEL SYNDROME

but often one side is worse than the other.

Sometimes the symptoms will clear up by

Lisa Leonard is a specialist hand, wrist and

themselves – carpal tunnel syndrome during

elbow surgeon with Horder Healthcare,

WHO GETS IT?

pregnancy for example usually gets better

charity and independent healthcare

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common

within a few weeks of the baby being born.

organisation, offering treatments to NHS,

problem that affects women more frequently than men – as many as five in every 100 women may suffer from it

More persistent cases might be solved with

medical treatment. The two interventions that have been shown to

self pay and privately insured patients. Please call 01892 665 577 or visit www.horderhealthcare.co.uk for further information.

DECEMBER 2015

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23/11/2015 12:34

Diagnostic and Treatment Centre

Sevenoaks Medical Centre Beadle House

WE TAKE CARE OF YOUR CHILD'S HEALTH We understand it can be a worrying time when your child is unwell, that's why at Sevenoaks Medical Centre, children and teenagers receive precise, attentive and expert paediatric care. Our doctors and surgeons are experts in managing all general paediatric conditions such as headaches, tummy aches and anxiety.

For same or next day appointments, please call or visit

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01732 809 342

www.sevenoaksmedicalcentre.com

23/11/2015 13:07

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Harriet Rainbow is a profesional makeu p artist based in Tunbridge Wells covering Kent, London and the South East. With many years experience in the industry, Harrier's services include bespoke bridal and occasion makeup , editorial makeup and makeup lessons, always perfectly tailoring the look to each client.

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DECEMBER 2015

p74_SO TW_DECEMBER15_Advert.indd 2

25/11/2015 15:33

WEDDINGS

THE SECRET DIARY OF A BRIDE TO BE Sometimes, the best laid plans actually need to be laid, our secret bride discovers…

sually, I look forward to the festive season. Mince pies, Prosecco, a chocolate every morning throughout

December…’tis the season to be jolly and a bit round. Not this year though, because this Christmas, not only do I have to bear in mind that I’ve got a dress to fit in to, it has also dawned on me that once Christmas and New Year are over, I’m officially in the year of the wedding. By nature, I am a procrastinator, and also a ‘mind planner’. As in, I plan everything in my head, but rarely get around to actually completing tasks. So, planning a wedding and actually having to be organised goes against all my natural instincts (which are to sit down with a cup of tea and contemplate). With the nuptials rapidly approaching, bridal magazines, websites and even friends and colleagues are all regularly on hand to proffer their advice on what stage I should be in the planning process by now. “Have you decided how you’re going to lay your tables?” one friend asked me recently. I gave a vague answer about candles, while inwardly panicking. The truth is I haven’t even booked my tables yet, let alone considered how to adorn them. Some days, when I’ve fired off a couple of emails and googled colour schemes, I feel like I’m on top of everything. Then I forget to email people back, or change my mind on whether I want mint or blush and then I’m back to square one. My fiancé is much more organised than I am. If he wants to do something, he just does it, rather than dithering. Unfortunately,

suppliers, deciding on colour schemes or

toiletries sets at Christmas, I don’t think

when he doesn’t want to do something, he

working out which flowers and foliage to use

you can pull a wedding out of the bag in

pretends that thing doesn’t exist (ie, going

in the bouquets. In his mind, he’s done his

less than 24 hours.

food shopping), and, more recently, any kind

bit, and the next thing he has to worry about

of wedding planning. He was enthusiastic

is turning up on the day.

about making an excel spreadsheet, but less enthused when it came to contacting

Hoping to find some reassurance, I signed up to a wedding forum, only to find brides on there discussing the intimate details of their 2018 weddings. These women already know what colour their napkins are going to be; I don’t even have a caterer booked. Having always been a fan of a last minute rush (who doesn’t love leaving their

A friend of mine who got married recently loved planning her wedding so much, she’s looking to go professional. Expecting a withering look from her, I told her how the organisation was going. “You’re much more organised than I was at this stage.” She admitted, showing me a folder full of invoices and table plan sketches. Feeling relived, I headed off to buy a ringbinder. Surely with one of those, all of my problems will be solved?

Christmas shopping until Christmas Eve, after all?) I figure everything will come

Next month, find out why our bride is

together in the end, but unlike panic buying

already worrying about the weather…

DECEMBER 2015

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WHY NOT HAVE YOUR HAIR STYLED FOR A NIGHT OUT THIS FESTIVE SEASON visit our blow dry bar for just £20

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW ON 01892 544937 6A CAMDEN ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT TN 1 2TP TONBRIDGE

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•

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•

SEVENOAKS

23/11/2015 13:08

WEDDINGS

MARRY CHRISTMAS Think the summer is the perfect time to wed? Maybe you’ll change your mind after reading these reasons to tie the knot in winter…

you’ve bought and made for the wedding in your home afterwards. Plus, you’ll be able to have your first kiss under the mistletoe. How romantic!

THE ACCESSORIES A summer wedding can often be hot and

THE WEATHER

be able to get married on a weekend too.

humid, meaning that even the weight of a

Imagine how disappointed you’d be if you

You’ll also be able to get some great deals

wedding dress can be problematic, while

booked your wedding for the height of

on honeymoons for this season.

suit jackets and ties are discarded as soon

summer, planned a garden ceremony and

as the official pictures are done.

then the heavens opened. The bonus of

THE AVAILABILITY

having a winter wedding is you’re

The other problem peak wedding season

enjoy dressing up – fur stoles, wool suits

prepared for any eventuality. If you gear

throws up is availability. Because most

and sparkly shoes will all work perfectly

yourself up for a cold and rainy day, you’ll

people choose to get married in the

– more is definitely more.

be pleasantly surprised by anything better,

summer, everything gets booked up quickly,

and many autumn and winter days can

often years in advance. The beauty of going

THE GUESTS

actually be mild and sunny. Remember

for a winter wedding is you have more

With the best will in the world, you’ll never

that sunshine isn’t guaranteed at any time

flexibility – it’s less likely your dream venue,

be able to pick a date to suit everybody on

of year, even summer weddings can fall

wedding band or florist will already be

your guest list, but during the summer

foul of a shower or two!

booked up, so you’ll have a better chance of

months, when many people are away on

creating the exact day you want and hand-

holiday, it can be tricky to co-ordinate. By

picking the suppliers you want to work with.

choosing a winter wedding, away from the

THE COST Peak wedding season runs from May

With a winter wedding, you can really

constraints of the school holidays it’s likely

through September, and at this time,

THE DECORATIONS

venues can be much more costly, often

Adorning your home with Christmas

your big day. Also, the popularity of

charging several thousands more to hire

decorations is arguably one of the best

summer weddings inevitably means there

their facilities. As a result, many couples

things about the season, but the bonus of

will be date clashes, and some guests may

choose to get married on a weekday to cut

having a winter wedding is you get to do it

not be able to attend because they’ve

costs. However, outside of these months,

all twice. From twinkly lights to festive fur

already RSVP’d to somebody else, but

you’ll probably find you can save a

cones, you can create a winter wonderland

tying the knot in the winter will hopefully

significant amount on your chosen

for your wedding, and either use your own

mean more of your nearest and dearest

location, and there’s a good chance you’ll

decorations in your wedding, or use what

can make your special day.

many more people will be able to make

DECEMBER 2015

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23/11/2015 12:08

THE LOOK

LUXURY CHRISTMAS WISHLIST PLEASE? We’ve been really good this year… DRIVING DIAMONDS If you’ve put diamonds on your list this year, then perhaps it’s time to forget the ring and think a bit bigger. The Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita is a limited edition sports car featuring a diamond weave carbon fibre finish. The car is one of the world’s most expensive streetlegal supercars, with a price tag of $4,850,000 (around £3.2million). Who needs jewellery when you can actually drive your diamonds?

OUT OF THIS WORLD Join the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks and Angelina Jolie, and be one of the first to fly to space with Virgin Galactic. Just a mere £250,000 will get you a seat to space and membership of the Future Astronaut community. You’ll be able to train as an astronaut, fly in the WhiteKnightTwo and SpaceShipTwo spacecrafts and experience true, unencumbered weightlessness. You’ll definitely beat last year’s gift card with this one. www.virgingalactic.com

DECEMBER 2015

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THE LOOK

MICHELANGELO’S TUSCANY HOME

JETTING OFF

Once the villa of world-famous artist Michelangelo, if you’re

Got £200,000 and some time to spare in 2016? Then why not

looking for the ultimate Christmas family home, then this could

embark on four amazing trips around the world? Oh, and travel by

be it. Located on over six acres above the rolling hills, the 12,915

private jet of course. From the 26-day tour around Savannah and

square feet of living space is contained in three multi-story

the Amazon, to the art-lovers’ ‘following Caravaggio’ trip where

buildings, including an ancient tower, believed to date back to

you’ll receive private viewings at Galleria Borghese in Rome and at

the 11th century. Worth a cool €7.5million (around £5.3million),

Co-Cathedral Valetta, you’ll be able to experience some of the

the property has eight bedrooms, seven bathrooms and even

world’s greatest sights in the lap of luxury. The trouble will be

a vineyard and lemon orchard.

trying to disguise your disappointment if you only get socks.

www.toptenrealestatedeals.com

www.firstto.com

A NOVEL GIFT

SLEEP TIGHT

Stuck for what to buy the book lover in your life? For a

Getting the kids off to sleep on Christmas Eve when they’re

very exclusive and festive treat, you could purchase one

anticipating the arrival of you know who can be a tricky task, but

of only 200 copies of Philip van Doren Stern’s novel The

a local mum has developed a new bedding concept to keep the

Greatest Gift A Christmas Tale, which was later adapted

kids tucked in all night long. Tuck n’ Snug is a duvet cover and

into the film It’s a Wonderful Life. The books, which cost

pillow case that secures the duvet and pillow using fabric flaps

£16,500 from Peter Harrington are signed by the author,

that are tucked under the mattress. With no shouting for

and were privately printed in 1943 and distributed to his

mummy or daddy, you’ll be able to get on with wrapping those

close friends as a Christmas card. Yes, sending a card

presents and drinking your sherry without interruption. And,

would be cheaper, but who really needs another skiing

because they’re only £39, you can still have a stack of toys under

snowman on the mantelpiece?

the tree on Christmas Day too.

www.peterharrington.co.uk

www.tucknsnug.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

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02/12/2015 09:00

BRITI SH COCOA GROWER

Christmas 2015 All the flavours of the season gathered into our classic Christmas collections, perfect for giving or sharing.

i [.

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â&#x20AC;˘ Visit us ~our Tunbridge Wells boutique or snop online at hotelchocolat.com. Free Click and Collect available* *C li ck and Coll ect terms and cond iti ons app ly

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25/11/2015 09:41

CHRISTMAS

Christmas IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE

WE TAKE A LOOK AT THE BEST OF THE FESTIVE TRADITIONS, TRIVIA AND TURKEY TREATS…

THE ADVERTS

EACH YEAR WE EAGERLY ANTICIPATE SOME OF THE BIGGEST STORES RELEASING THEIR CHRISTMAS TV ADS, BUT WHERE DID THE TREND ORIGINATE FROM? Christmas TV adverts have long been a fixture on our screens, but it

hours. These figures show a significant development in

wasn’t until 1995 when Coca Cola released their Christmas truck advert

advertising – after the introduction of ‘on demand’ television

that these offerings became a signature part of the festive build up.

where we were suddenly presented with the option to fast forward

Until 2007, the Coca Cola advert, which was often debuted during a

the ad breaks, consumers are now choosing to sit at a computer

prime time television slot, such as The X Factor was the signature

and view adverts in their entirety.

advert to kickstarting the festive season, but John Lewis’ offering eight years ago put paid to Coca Cola’s reign as the festive advert frontrunners. These adverts were unlike anything else – they contained a narrative, a clever tagline and a popular song reworked and remastered by another artist. The figures spoke for themselves – when John Lewis launched their 2011 campaign The Long Wait, a two minute clip about a boy who couldn’t wait to give his parents their gifts, sales went up 9.3% year on year to £596million. Seeing the success the store had with campaigns featuring stories rather than product placements, other outlets followed suit, and now, from the beginning of December our screens are inundated with clever promotions. The online success of these adverts speaks volumes too – at the time of going to press, this year’s Man on the Moon John Lewis advert had already amassed over 13million views on YouTube, while Sainsbury’s offering racked up 2million views in less than 24

DECEMBER 2015

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CHRISTMAS

TOP OF THE POPS

WE ALL GROAN WHEN WE HEAR CHRISTMAS SONGS ON THE RADIO OR IN SHOPS FOR THE FIRST TIME, BUT THESE TUNES ARE INEVITABLY THE SOUNDTRACK TO OUR CHRISTMASES

WINTER WARMERS Stopping for a beverage after a busy day Christmas shopping has become more of an occasion than a necessity in recent years. Now, as well as shops getting festive by adorning their interiors with tinsel and trees, high street café chains have got in on the seasonal celebrations by offering festive ranges of drinks. The trend began with Starbucks, who, in 1984 created their Christmas blend coffee. Then, in 1997 they launched their red cups, which every year have seen a different design, from vintage ornaments and hand-drawn reindeer to modern vector-illustrated characters. Simple though changing a cup colour may seem, the marketing worked – last year, within the first 48 hours of their yearly release, a photo of a Starbucks holiday cup was shared on Instagram every 14 seconds. As well as the change in cup colour, Starbucks and many of the other coffee chains offer a variety of flavoured coffees for a limited time each year. But, as with many treats at this time of year, these drinks often contain high amounts of sugar and fat – sometimes

Whether it’s Mariah’s All I Want for

four in total. The first three, I Want To

more than an entire day’s allowance.

Christmas or Slade’s Merry Xmas Everybody, every year the old favourites fill the airwaves as we decorate our trees and tuck into our roast dinners. However, it’s not always the most festive records that dominate the charts during December. There are more singles sold in the run up to Christmas than any other typical chart week, and that coveted number one spot is the ultimate goal for many artists. Over the past decade, the X Factor winners have predominately dominated the Christmas number one spot, with the exception of 2009, when an anti-X Factor campaign group succeeded in getting Rise Against The Machine’s Killing in the Name to number one, pipping the singing contest winner Joe McElderry to the post. The Beatles have the most Christmas number ones under their belt, scoring

Hold Your Hand, I Feel Fine and Day Tripper/We Can Work It Out topped the Official Singles Chart consecutively from 1963 to 1965. Hello, Goodbye was the fourth in 1967. During their prime in the 90s, the Spice Girls also had a run of Christmas chart success, when between 1996 and 1998 they notched up three consecutive Christmas number ones with 2 Become 1, Too Much and Goodbye. Of course, sometimes a Christmas song does reach number one in time for December 25. Do They Know it’s Christmas? has been Christmas Number one three times: for Band Aid in 1984, Band Aid II in 1989, and finally for Band Aid 20 in 2004. The first version of Do They Know it’s Christmas? is the biggest selling Christmas Number 1 of all time, with over 3.7 million copies sold. While it’s never been number one, Silent Night is the most recorded Christmas song in history, with over 733 different versions copyrighted since 1978.

The Starbucks full fat honey and

almond hot chocolate with whipped cream contains more calories than a big mac burger, while costa’s massimosized black forest hot chocolate has 556 calories. The good news is that you can order skinny versions of all of the drinks, but, if it’s the whipped cream topping you’re craving then you may just have to indulge after all…

DECEMBER 2015

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CHRISTMAS

MOVIE MAGIC

CHRISTMAS FILMS HAVE LONG BEEN PART OF THE FESTIVE CELEBRATIONS, AND NO DOUBT YOU’LL HAVE YOUR OWN TAKE ON WHICH IS THE BEST. BUT WHICH HAVE MADE THE MOST MONEY? AND WHICH DO THE CRITICS RATE AS THE FESTIVE BEST?

HIGHEST GROSSING GLOBALLY

CRITICS CHOICE

(since Box Office Mojo records began in 1980)

(according to www.rottentomatoes.com)

5. THE POLAR EXPRESS (2004)

It may come as a surprise that the five most

the computer animated movie voiced by

highly acclaimed Christmas films are all

Tom Hanks took £202,079,398 globally.

golden oldies.

4. A CHRISTMAS CAROL (2009)

5. STALAG 17 (1953)

this animated adaption of Charles

4. HOLIDAY INN (1943)

Dickens’ classic took £213,758,274.

3. THE SHOP AROUND THE CORNER

3. HOW THE GRINCH STOLE

(1940)

CHRISTMAS (2000) Jim Carrey stars

2. MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET (1947)

in this adaption of Dr Seuss’ story,

1. IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (1946)

which took £226,865,220. 2. HOME ALONE 2: LOST IN NEW YORK (1992) the Home Alone sequel didn’t quite manage to make as much as the original, pulling in £235,971,242. 1. HOME ALONE (1990) the film about a boy being left behind at Christmas managed to make a huge £313,330,051 when it was released in 1990.

FESTIVE FEASTING

JUST AS CHRISTMAS COFFEES HAVE BECOME A BIG HIT, SO HAVE FESTIVE SANDWICHES, WITH MANY MAJOR RETAILERS LAUNCHING SEASONAL SNACKS AND LUNCH OPTIONS IN THE LEAD UP TO THE BIG DAY. AS IT’S THE SEASON OF GOODWILL, WE’VE SELFLESSLY TUCKED IN TO SOME OF THE SANDWICHES ON OFFER TO BRING YOU OUR PICK OF THE TOAST WITH THE MOST…

BEST FOR… SOMETHING WARMING

BEST FOR… TRADITIONALISTS

BEST FOR… AN ALL IN ONE

COSTA Pigs in blanket Panini Pigs in blankets are arguably the best

WAITROSE Turkey stuffing and bacon sandwich

MARKS AND SPENCER Turkey and pigs in blankets

thing about Christmas, so combining

This sandwich essentially contains all the

With this sandwich, pretty much all that’s

them in a toasted Panini with herb

flavours of Christmas between two slices

missing is the gravy. Containing

stuffing spinach and cranberry sauce is

of bread. Turkey, pork and chestnut

sausages, smoked bacon, butter basted

always going to be a winner in our

stuffing and bacon are smothered in a

turkey breast, cranberry chutney and

eyes. The fact that it’s warm is an

port and orange chutney, with a dash of

spiced mayonnaise, Marks and Spencer

added bonus.

mayonnaise and spinach for good

have really come up with the festive

measure. Forget serving leftovers on

goods this year.

BEST FOR… VEGETARIANS

Boxing Day and just stock up on these instead.

PRET A MANGER Veggie Christmas lunch Sometimes we feel that vegetarians get a raw deal at Christmas, but Pret

BEST FOR… MODERNISTS

have reset the balance with this

TESCO Turkey and stuffing wrap Can’t decide whether to have a fajita or

delicious offering. Containing roasted

settle for something Christmassy? Have

chunks of butternut squash, nutty

both with Tesco’s Christmas wrap. Bacon,

Christmas pesto and spicy rocket, we’d

turkey and sage and onion stuffing are all

be more than happy to tuck in to this

neatly wrapped up with some salad

on Christmas Day. As long as there

leaves. Eat quickly to avoid the cranberry

were roast potatoes too, of course…

sauce making a bid for freedom.

DECEMBER 2015

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CHRISTMAS

TOY TRENDS

AS ALL PARENTS WILL KNOW, EVERY YEAR THERE IS THAT ONE MUST-HAVE TOY ON EVERY CHILD’S CHRISTMAS LIST. AND, AS THE ADVERTS START COMING, THE SHELVES START EMPTYING OF SAID TOY. WE TAKE A LOOK AT THE MOST POPULAR TOYS FROM THE PAST 60 YEARS.

1955

CHRISTMAS FACTS EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW TO ACE THAT FESTIVE PUB QUIZ

• Four people broke their arms last year as a direct result of over-enthusiastic cracker pulling.

• Tinsel was invented in Germany and was originally made of real silver.

• Every year around 1,000 people in the UK are

After its introduction in the UK by Spears, Scrabble became this year’s big seller.

1965

The James Bond Aston Martin die-cast car is the big seller and becomes the first toy to win the ‘toy of the year’ accolade.

1975

This year’s most sought-after toy is the LEGO basic set.

seriously injured by their Christmas tree. The most common accidents occur when people try to hang decorations on higher branches.

• Christmas is abbreviated to Xmas because X is the Greek letter ‘chi’ an abbreviation for the word Christ in Greek.

1985

Children everywhere want the Transformers Optimus Prime.

• According to data from Facebook, two weeks before Christmas is one of the most popular times for couples to break up. However, Christmas Day is the least favourite day for breakups.

• Artificial Christmas trees have outsold real ones since 1991.

• Rudolph was actually conceived by a department store, Montgomery Ward, as a marketing gimmick to get children to buy Christmas colouring books.

• Rudolph was almost named Rollo or Reginald. • The Christmas gift wrap used in the UK every year would cover the island of Guernsey.

•

Japanese people traditionally eat at KFC for Christmas dinner. It’s so popular that customers must place their Christmas orders two months in advance.

1995

The POGS craze sweeps the nation, although Barbie, Power Rangers and Action Man do well.

2005

Released eight years after the first Tamagotchi, the Tamagotchi Connexion used infra-red technology to allow users to interact with each other and share their virtual pets.

2015

This year, the Toy Retailer’s Association have predicted that LEGO’s deep sea exploration vessel (RRP £80) will be the biggest seller, with a sing-a-long Elsa from Disney’s Frozen (RRP £39) coming a close second

DECEMBER 2015

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BROADVIEW

HAD LOW COLLEGE

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----pf1£$eNrS - - - -

WWW.DREAMLAND.CO.UK #DREAMLAND

DECEMBER 2015

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EVENT

SOCIAL A FINE TIME Clients of Goldsmiths jewellers, Tunbridge Wells gathered at the shop for an exclusive Rolex event. Promoting the new models from Basel, the event showcased the latest watches in the collection including the Yachmaster. In attendance was Paul Young, the head of Rolex, the mayor of Tunbridge Wells David Elliott and celebrities from the entertainment world. Guests enjoyed champagne and canapĂŠs as they networked and discovered more about the latest Rolex models. PHOTOS BY CRAIG MATTHEWS

DECEMBER 2015

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TD-lK

£329

TD-llKV

£999

TD-25KV

£1949

TD-30K-SE

£3499

TD-30KV

£5349

~ £529 RD-64

F-20

£449 Untitled-13 2

RP-401

£879

F-140

£719

RD-300NX

£869

FP-50

£939

FP-80

£1299

23/11/2015 13:08

EVENT

SOCIAL A COLOURFUL CELEBRATION Local charity ellenor – which supports families facing terminal illness – celebrated its 30th birthday in style by holding the Orange Ball, its first London ball. Attended by all of ellenor’s celebrity patrons: Charlotte Hawkins from Good Morning Britain, TV property expert Phil Spencer, Tom Parker from The Wanted and former EastEnders actress Cheryl Fergison, the star-studded evening included a balloon raffle, a silent auction and a live auction, where a Harley Davidson motorbike, donated by Councillor David Elliott, the Mayor of Tunbridge Wells was auctioned. The event raised a huge £62,000 for the charity. www.ellenor.org

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6/7 Bell Walk, Uckfiel , East SussexTN22 SDQ Tel: 01825 763380 I 01825 763280 Mob: 07718 808878 I fross@weddingcollecti'ons.co.uk www.frossweddingcollections.co.uk

Untitled-3 1

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EVENT

SOCIAL WELL STYLED Royal Victoria Place in Tunbridge Wells celebrated the latest fashion season in style with a three-day event aimed at showcasing the latest trends. With new ranges from more than 35 different brands, including Topshop, Timberland and French Connection, the event, Style It Live, helped draw in more than 105,000 shoppers to centre. Models, with hair styled by Rush and make-up courtesy of Fenwick, showed off a range of styles on the catwalk, while those hoping to follow in their footsteps had the chance to take part in a ‘fashion magazine cover shoot’, with free makeover, photographer, bright lights, music and glamour. There was also the chance for a lucky shopper to win a £250 gift card to spend in the centre. PHOTOS BY PHIL GLOVER

DECEMBER 2015

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ALL-IN-ONE MEMBERSHIP

FOR JUST £799

1 MONTH'S ALL-IN-ONE MEMBERSHIP

FOR JUST £44

Untitled-13 2

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EVENT

SOCIAL ART THAT NEEDS TO BE SEEN Over an evening of champagne, canapĂŠs, entertainment and exceptional art, the new SEEArt gallery in Tunbridge Wells was launched. Many acclaimed national and international artists were in attendance when the gallery opened for business in The Pantiles. As well as a human statue, there was surprise entertainment from Jon Christos, a tenor who has performed with the likes of Pavarotti, and West End performer Adam Lacey, who has appeared in shows such as Les Miserables. The gallery, on the Upper Pantiles is now open to the public and showcases sculptures, ceramics, paintings, prints and photography from renowned artists. www.seeartgallery.co.uk PHOTOS BY CRAIG MATTHEWS

DECEMBER 2015

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23/11/2015 12:49

COME AND SAY HELLO TO

OFFICIAL LAUNCH

'BING'

10:30am Saturday 5rH December Assembly Hall Tunbridge Wells TAKE A FREE RIDE ON THE SANTA EXPRESS Although ifs free to ride the Santa Express, we will be inviting people to make a donation to one of our favourite local charities The Pickering Cancer Drop-in Centre

the polar bear visiting from the North Pole The cast of THE PANTO CINDERELLA will be making a very special appearance

THE SANTA EXPRESS WILL RUN ON THE FOLLOWING DATES FROM 10am - 4pm: 5TH, 6rH, 12rH, 13rH December

FATHER CHRISTMAS will also be saying 'Hello' to all the good boys and girls

Every day from the 14TH - 2 4TH December

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DECEMBER 2015

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EVENT

SOCIAL ON THE GRAPEVINE To celebrate Tenterdenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new wine trail initiative, a group of specially invited guests attended the launch event when it was held at Chapel Down vineyard. The trail, which guides wine enthusiasts to some of the best vineyards in the area, including Gusbourne, Biddenden and Hush Heath, was officially launched in the Swan restaurant, with a variety of local wines on offer to sample. Guests were also invited to partake in a guided tour around Chapel Downâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winery. www.visitashfordandtenterden.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

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EVENT

SOCIAL SPARKLING EVENING Over 140 guests took time to shine when Hospices of Hope hosted a dinner/dance diamond inspired evening titled shine bright like a diamond at the Salomons Estate in Tunbridge Wells. Throughout the night, guests were entertained by expert magician Jimmy Sheridan as well as participating in a fundraising initiative the ‘tree of hope’ where guests were able to win raffle prizes kindly donated by local businesses. The shining event raised just over £5,000 which will continue to help support Hospices of Hope to provide much needed palliative care to terminally ill children and adults in south east Europe. www.hospicesofhope.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

BUSINESS

New awards for local businesses Companies across the borough are invited to put their names forward and be acknowledged as being among the best in the business Our sister publication the Times of Tunbridge Wells last month launched an exciting new awards initiative designed to ‘recognise excellence in local business’. It’s called the Royal Tunbridge Wells Business Awards 2016 and consists of 11 categories, from which selected entrants will be invited to attend a gala dinner in May, where the ultimate winners will be announced. The awards are open to any business operating within the borough of Tunbridge Wells.

THE CATEGORIES New Business of the Year

and comprehensive CSR programme that is

Entrepreneur of the Year

You’ve come into business in the last two

credible, results-driven and reinforces your

Entrepreneurs turn their ideas into business

years (start date after January 1 2014) with

commitment to operating in an

opportunities and may run one or more

a bang and are really getting noticed for

economically, socially and environmentally

companies. If you are innovative and have

what you do.

responsible manner, you’re eligible.

turned your big ideas into a successful

Green Company of the Year

Business Hero of the Year

Being green can embrace many aspects

Nominees for this award will have gone

Young Business Person of the Year

of sustainability, including being

the extra mile in their job to achieve

This is open to dynamic individuals aged 30

environmentally friendly in your business

something amazing, or overcome

or under, who are running a business and

approach, or changes that you have made

adversity in their professional life, and

able to demonstrate great success and drive

to become more sustainable.

continued to deliver an excellent service.

in growing that business.

venture, this is the category for you.

The person should be an ambassador for Creative Business of the Year

the borough of Tunbridge Wells and a role

Service Excellence Award

Is your business success based on

model to their colleagues.

The winner of this category will give outstanding assistance and advice to those

innovation and creative thinking in your strategy and everyday business? This

Best Family Business of the Year

who buy or use the business or organisation’s

award is for any business over two years

The business must have been trading for a

products or services. They will be able to

old in any sector.

minimum of 12 months before the closing

provide customer testimonials in support of

date of April 6 2016, and be able to identify

their entry.

Corporate Social Responsibility Award

the financial success of the business in

If your company has developed an effective

relation to growth in turnover and profit.

Outstanding Business of the Year This is the ultimate award of all the categories and will go to the business that can show outstanding initiative, boldness and imagination, as well as sound management practices. All entrants and finalists within the first nine categories will also be automatically entered into this category.

Times of Tunbridge Wells Readers’ Choice Award This one’s a little bit different. Readers of the newspaper will be invited to nominate any local business or business person who consistently delivers outstanding customer service.

For more information about the awards and how to enter, visit: www.tunbridgewellsbusinessawards.co.uk

business awards

THE ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS

business awards 2016

DECEMBER 2015

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BUSINESS

The Judges... DARREN AUSTIN IS… Partner/owner at Synergee in Tunbridge Wells, the chartered accountants and business advisers. He is himself a chartered accountant with more than 30 years’ experience, most of which has been gained working closely with owner managed businesses covering all industries, although there have been one or two multi-nationals along the way. His main focus is business development, which involves working with clients on defining and achieving their business goals.

JO JAMES IS… Chief executive of the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, the county’s only accredited chamber of commerce, which serves more than 1,300 members’ businesses across Kent. Jo James also serves on the South East Local Enterprise Partnership, the businessled, public/private body established to drive economic growth in the region. In recognition of her 25 year’s work at the chamber, she was recently voted a National Woman of the Year 2015.

DAVID JUKES IS… A successful businessman and leader of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. After completing an apprenticeship as an electrician he joined a national contracting company as a junior engineer, before going on to manage major international construction projects, including hotels and airports. In 1980 he started his own construction project management company and began his political career a few years later. Officially retired, he acts as a consultant for a number of organisations.

NIGEL HARPER IS… The CEO of Parfitt Cresswell Solicitors, which has seven offices across the southeast including Tunbridge Wells. He is also a partner in Holland Harper LLP, a Sussex firm of chartered accountants, has a wide range of commercial interests and has successfully built and sold a number of businesses, both in the UK and abroad. Nigel Harper specialises in providing management and business consultancy services to a number of professional and commercial clients.

BRIAN KEELEY-WHITING IS… Managing director of Whiting & Hammond, the independent, award-winning pub and restaurant group which he established12 years ago. Today, it has eight sites in the region. Its most recent accolade was the title of Best Small Group at the Employers in Hospitality Awards. Brian KeeleyWhiting started as a chef at the Savoy, then joined the Bruning & Price pub company as manager and left as a director.

RICHARD MOORE IS… Editorial director of One Media, publishers of the Times of Tunbridge Wells and So magazines. He is an award-winning journalist who has been news editor of the Sunday Mirror, a current affairs producer with BBC Radio Four and a financial journalist in Bermuda. He also ran a political lobbying company in London, worked on US presidential election campaigns and in 2008, helped launch So Tunbridge Wells magazine.

You can also read more about the awards in the Times of Tunbridge Wells which is published each Wednesday and is free.

THE ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS

business awards 2016

business awards

DECEMBER 2015

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EVENT

SOCIAL PARTNERING UP The partners at Warners Solicitors recently invited guests to join them for a gastronomic lunch at the historic Old Fire Station in Tonbridge. Invitees were treated to a 10 course tasting menu, prepared by MasterChef finalist and British Chef of the Year, Adam Handling. Adam delighted guests with dishes such as salmon, peas, wasabi, frozen blossoms and mackerel, cucumber, yuzu and caviar. www.warners-solicitors.co.uk

100

DECEMBER 2015

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DECEMBER 2015

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BUSINESS

VIEWS FROM THE TOP Locally, we have a huge array of exciting and innovative businesses on our doorsteps. From cosmetic surgery clinics to solicitor practices, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re spoiled for choice by the wealth of services available in our area. Clients travel here from across the southeast to benefit from the fantastic facilities on offer. But what makes the businesses so prolific and successful? Here, we speak to nine local business owners to discover how prosperous the past 12 months have been for them, and what they anticipate for the year aheadâ&#x20AC;Ś

102

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BUSINESS

AMANDA DICKER

Name of business: The Chapel hair salon Type of business: Hairdressers Position: Co-founder Chapel Place Tunbridge Wells TN1 1YQ 01892 549 900 www.thechapel.co.uk

How do you see 2016 unfolding in

interiors, possibly opening two new sister

because we model our structure more on

your company?

salons, and in September launching a new

that of a luxury hotel or spa than a salon.

2016 is going to herald a whole new chapter

fragrance based range of lifestyle products.

Another of our essential founding principles

for us, reinterpreting and refining our

It’s often too easy to say there’s a big year

has always been to offer each of our guests

identity, as we expand our brand and its

ahead, but in this instance I don’t think 2016

the right individual advice alongside the

values into other related sectors. Our

can be anything else.

appropriate tailored treatments. Our aim has always been to be totally collaborative

maxim has always been: ‘take care of your customers and take care of your team, then

What are likely to be the major changes

when it comes to helping each guest

everything else will take care of itself’. So

within your sector?

achieve their ideal look, and we also want to

we’re dedicated to continuously enhancing

We never believed the established dynamic of

help them understand the processes

the experience and skills of all our team.

products and services simply fulfilling their

involved, and how to easily recreate their

One of the forthcoming programs I’m

basic function was ever sufficient – especially

salon looks back home. Our refurbishment

excited about is on how to apply

not within industries such as ours. More

work is focused on creating spaces where

mindfulness in the workplace. In a

customers are now looking for a holistic

our guests can do this, and we believe this

customer-focused environment such as

experience that goes way beyond the core

kind of educational advice should be a

ours, improving these skills has to be of

service. Taking customers on a richer more

standard part of the salon experience.

benefit to everyone concerned.

beneficial journey is an experience that’s

As we evolve we’ll also be reconceptualising our existing salon

becoming expected. We founded The Chapel brand on this idea

What would you do to boost the economy? As a sensible long-term strategy for

nearly 15 years ago but it’s now becoming

improving both the economy and our

apparent that more luxury salons are

general quality of life I’d like to recommend

following similar templates to gain and retain

we try and be as decent, genuine and

an ever more conscious and selective

honourable as we possibly can within our

clientele. The biggest change we and the

business interactions. I’m still convinced

industry faces would appear to be

that is you treat people the way you’d

competitors beginning to understand and

like to be treated you’ll eventually reap

follow these principles. However, staying

the rewards. The same principle applies

ahead of an evolving industry is the challenge

to nurturing your employees. Creating a

that has always driven us, so we’ll continue

more loyal, secure, confident and

finding ways to improve our service and

competent workforce can only be better

experience, not for the sake of doing things

for both business owners, and the

differently, but because we’ve already

economy at large.

understood this is what our customers prefer. What five words best describe your What’s the top piece of advice you’re

thoughts for 2016?

giving clients?

Excitement, Growth, Principles, Peace and

We always refer to our clients as ‘guests’

Customer Experience. Oops! I cheated!

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BUSINESS

1713

ANDREW LINTON

Name of business: Buss Murton Type of business: Law firm Position: Managing Partner Wellington Gate, 7-9 Church Rd, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1HT 01892 510 222 www.bussmurton.co.uk

How do you see 2016 unfolding for

this year which will impact on our existing

business objectives and business culture as

your company?

client base of small owner-managed

well as one’s personal circumstances.

Back in October 2014 Buss Murton Law LLP

businesses as well as individuals. As with

A clear objective is key to its ultimate

acquired the practice of Elaine McGloin

all firms we must not only continue to keep

achievement. Clarity of objective also

thereby increasing our geographical reach

abreast of our own professional regulatory

provides a background against which we

into West Sussex and increasing our

and compliance changes but also ensure

are able to provide bespoke advice bringing

number of offices to four to include the

that they do not have an impact on the

our experience to bear and achieving the

head office in Tunbridge Wells as well as

quality or efficiency of the services we

best possible outcome for our clients. That

our other offices in Dartford and Cranbrook.

provide. We must continue to work with

clarity also provides us with the opportunity

2015 saw a period of integration and

our clients and our professional contacts to

to match our clients, whether business or

consolidation culminating in the retirement

ensure that their businesses or individual

personal, with our network of appropriate

of Alan Williams as this firm’s Senior

circumstances are not prejudiced as a result

minded professionals across a variety of

Partner in May 2015 and the subsequent

of any legislative changes that impact on

sectors where professional advice is

retirement of Elaine McGloin at the end of

their lives or businesses. In order to achieve

increasingly required.

September 2015. 2016 provides an exciting

this we will continue to invest in the training

opportunity for the firm to move ahead with

and development of our staff so that they in

What would you do to boost the economy?

a change in management structure and a

turn can pass on the benefit of that

Despite the financial constraints of recent

greater emphasis on supporting and

knowledge and experience to impact

years, the economy, particularly locally,

developing our staff to deliver the best

positively on the lives of our personal and

has seen a rise in the number of small to

possible advice to our clients in the future.

business clients and their future success.

medium owner-managed businesses.

What are likely to be the major changes in

What’s the top piece of advice you’re

from not only their professional advisers

your sector?

giving clients?

who need to be understanding of their

There will be further legislation which will

To be proactive in the seeking of

particular requirements, principally

come into effect throughout the course of

professional advice. To speak openly about

around the time of setup, but they also

These businesses need help and support

need to be supported by their banks in order to grow and develop. Auto-enrolment is a key legislative change this year which is placing considerable time pressures on owner-managers so it is therefore crucial for banks to take an understanding and supportive approach during this period. What five words best describe your thoughts for 2016? A challenging and exciting opportunity.

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BUSINESS

JOHN & NINA SHEFFIELD Name of business: rtwskin Type of business: Skin care clinic Position: Directors Cobden House Medical Centre 25 London Road Tunbridge Wells TN1 1DA 01892 222 222 www.rtwskin.co.uk

How do you see 2016 unfolding for

What are likely to be the major changes in

patients real results. In the run up to

your company?

your sector?

Christmas it’s the ideal time to book that

rtwskin is celebrating the start of its 10th year

Rather than changes in the sector we see the

course of treatment.

in Tunbridge Wells in 2016. We are excited

continued growth of non-surgical

about this and we want to share some of our

treatments. This has boomed over the last

success with our patients. This year we will

few years and has been led mainly by

giving clients?

offer everyone who buys Christmas gift

developments in technology that can now

Check out non-surgical options before opting

vouchers for friends or family an additional

give even better results than surgery in

for surgery – this the best advice we can

25% added to the value of the voucher. We

some cases.

give. Have a completely free consultation

What’s the top piece of advice you’re

We have added a number of 21st century

with one of our doctors or nurses, without

go a bit further.

devices to equipment this year and the last

any obligation just to learn what may work

We see 2016 as an exciting opportunity to

will arrive this month. It is the long awaited

for you and be within your budget. Many

continue to grow our business and to not

Velashape III. Velashape has been around

patients have completely the wrong idea

only build on our success with new aesthetic

for 10 years but now Velashape III is three

about what will work for them and the cost.

treatments and devices but to expand our

times more powerful than Velashape II and

new dermatology clinic and continue to

the very last word in development of the RF

What would you do to boost the economy?

build our travel vaccination clinic.

platform for cellulite treatments and body

So far we feel this government is at least

contouring.

trying to help with increases in minimum

hope this will make that Christmas budget

2015 saw us become an approved supplier to the NHS as well as many of the milestones we had targeted being achieved.

We are very excited by this new device and have decided to invest in it to give our

wage and the target of the national living wage. To get the best staff you have to pay the going rate and our staff, some who have been with us almost since we opened, enjoy seeing their hard work recognised. What five words best describe your thoughts for 2016? More of the same for 2016, business and economies are not built overnight. It takes long sustained hard work, good practice and patient focus to build a successful practice. My five words are Training, Care, Focus, Listen and Action. Use these words all the time and patients will return and tell their friends and families about good, cost effective services.We have found if we concentrate on that five star service the financial rewards always follow.

DECEMBER 2015

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BUSINESS

LORENZO COLANGELO

Name of business: The Gallery Type of business: Hair salon Position: Salon Director 67 London Rd, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 9AP 01892 514 900 www.thegalleryhairandbeauty.co.uk

How do you see 2016 unfolding for

enjoy their visit with us all the more.

less people. Personally, I see this as a positive move and as an opportunity to raise

your company? Over the last two years we have consolidated

What are likely to be the major changes in

standards and service using the increase in

our business and grown it as much as we

your sector?

minimum wage as incentive to create a

can within our current size of premises. In

The expansion has made us look very

more appealing job opportunity.

these two years we have also set out and

closely at the services that we offer and after

won three major industry awards which

analysing the most requested services and

What’s the top piece of advice you’re

have been judged on our business results.

most profitable services we have rationalised

giving clients?

our beauty offering. We have found that

Quality is worth paying for! We understand

area of our building to increase from 13

more and more clients are looking for

that we are not the cheapest salon in the

styling stations to 21 styling stations. This

‘grooming’ services, rather than pampering

area, but we do believe that our team

expansion will require additional staff who

style spa services. So practical beauty

deliver first class services backed up by

will need to be employed prior to the

services such as manicures, eyebrow and

constant education and training to ensure

expansion to ensure they have their initial

eyelash tinting, waxing and spray tanning

we always know the latest techniques,

internal training before they ‘go live’ after the

are all on the up, whereas the top end

trends and tricks of the trade to ensure that

expansion. It will also offer our existing staff

services of skin care and body care are not

your hair stays in top condition and looking

promotional opportunities that inevitably

nearly as popular at the present time.The

at its very best. Always use your

come as the team grows.

National Living wage may well have an

consultation time to explore the opportunity

effect in the hairdressing sector. We employ

of change. Your stylist should be giving

most amazing and loyal clients who come

a great deal of young people as an industry

style advice based on skin tone, lifestyle and

back to us time and time and we hope that

and for a lot of salons the increased hourly

face shape these elements mixed with

by expanding and refurbishing that they will

rate might mean they employ one or two

current trend knowledge should give you

So 2016 is set to see us expand the salon

We are very lucky and we have some of the

the perfect style. What would you do to boost the economy? More support for small businesses and enterprise from the government, more support for employers who recognise the importance of investment, in education, in people of all ages. What five words best describe your thoughts for 2016? SNIP - Smile, nourish, inspire and perform - these are words that we apply every day to enrich our own lives and also those of our team and our clients.

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BUSINESS

ANT SCRAGG

Name of business: The Spa Hotel Type of business: Hotel Position: Director Mount Ephraim, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8XJ 01892 520331 www.spahotel.co.uk

How do you see 2016 unfolding for

dominate the hotel booking process, and as

recent years there has been a shift in

your company?

we are unable to upsell ad-ons via these

popularity with many alternative options

2016 is going to be pretty exciting year for

third party sites, the challenge is both to try

for a venue. However we are seeing that

us. We’ve seen a lot of changes and

and predict what the guest will want, and

excellent attention to detail from booking

improvements in 2015, and these are set to

also to incentivise our staff to upsell at

through to delivery maintains The Spa as a

continue next year. We are going to be

every opportunity.

popular choice. We are already ahead for

doing a few different things this year too,

With regard to weddings this continues to

next year when compared to this point

raising the profile of the hotel as a venue.

be an important sector of our revenue, in

last year.

Watch this space! What’s the top piece of advice you’re giving What are likely to be the major changes in

clients?

your sector?

I’d advise clients be honest about their

We’ve seen massive changes in recent

requirements and expectations. We try to

times, certainly from an accommodation

be as flexible as possible and will often ask

booking perspective. The ever increasing

what the client wants rather than telling

popularity of price comparison sites has

them what we offer. Also to think outside

meant that a lot of our bookings now come

the box, The Spa appeals to a wider

through on a room only basis, whereas

audience than you might think.

before guests would often book an inclusive stay. We envisage these sites continuing to

What would you do to boost the economy? I would say, give more purchasing power to people, and don’t penalise those who work hard. Tunbridge Wells is an affluent town with close links to the city, so I’d like to see more independent businesses rather than standard chains, which would encourage those living in the area to stay, and entice those from further afield. Also to work together as an industry; I feel hotels / restaurants in the town could work closer together to help boost trade rather than battle each other. What five words best describe your thoughts for 2016? Challenging. Exciting. Changes. Onwards. Upwards!

DECEMBER 2015

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BUSINESS

TED SHAW

Name of business: EJ Financial Limited Type of business: Independent Financial Advisor Position: Director 2nd Floor, Johnsons Building, The Broadway, Crowborough, East Sussex, TN6 1DE 01892 655 973 www.ejfinancial.co.uk

How do you see 2016 unfolding for

too numerous to mention here. Care is

significant changes to the tax regime to put

your company?

needed to ensure that the dreaded tax man

more money where it belongs; in the pockets

We are anticipating another successful year

does not get rich on the back of your

of the people earning it. Increase the

of trading and are looking forward to

decisions regarding pensions, investments

personal allowance to £15,000, increase the

working again with our previous clients and

and from April 6 2016, dividends.

new dividend allowance from £5,000 to £20,000, (entrepreneurs ought to be allowed

also with our new clients. We are excited about our entering into the new world of

What is the top piece of advice you’re giving

to have tax free benefits for the risks they

communication with our social media ‘guru’

Clients?

have taken in setting up their own business),

Helen Spencer and featuring on Facebook,

The top piece of advice is to take

increase the high rate tax threshold to

Twitter and blogging on our website.

professional advice to ensure that you

£50,000 and the higher rate threshold to

make the correct decisions when it comes to

£300,000. Invest in housing that was only

What are likely to be the major changes in

all matters financial; powers of attorney,

available to the offspring of families that had

your sector?

wills, probate, pensions, IHT, CGT, income

lived in an area for at least 20 years so that

The new Pension Freedom (pension

tax and ISA’s versus pension contributions.

children could live in the same area as their

nightmare?) rules are a game changer for

Exceeding the pension lifetime allowance

parents and wider family.

many people, especially those with Private

incurs a 55% tax charge.

Company Defined Benefit (final salary)

What five words best describe your

pension schemes. The options in terms of

What would you do to boost the economy?

thoughts for 2016?

income, death benefits and tax planning are

To boost the economy, I would make

No jargon and plain words.

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BUSINESS

MARK GARDINER

Name of business: Croft Glass Type of business: Windows, doors and conservatories Position: Managing Director Contact: 0800 801 336 www.croft-glass.com

How do you see 2016 unfolding for

ensure that every home we improve upon

fashion honesty and reliability has resulted

your company?

is making a difference.

in a continued flow of work and is the basis of our good business reputation.

I am both excited and optimistic about 2016 – times are changing. ‘Newer and better’

What’s the top piece of advice you’re giving

used to be the key to a new product launch

clients?

What would you do to boost the economy?

but now its older styles, more traditional

Check, check and double check – “if only

If I were the Chancellor of the Exchequer,

and better manufacturing that’s key. The 80s

we’d come to you first” I hear people say

I would not continue borrowing money for

boom was rife with the plastic industry,

– we stand proud of our reputation and

the country, getting us further into debt. I do

replacing the old timber windows with new

have worked hard to earn it over many

believe that we have to address areas that

PVCu, and the early profiles were big and

years in the home improvement industry.

will increase work and employment. We

bulky, a lot of plastic and not enough glass.

If you don’t know the name Croft Glass, we

have a shortage of homes throughout the

Now, the profile of a plastic window is

are registered with FENSA, a local authority,

UK, a demand for new developments and

almost identical to a profile of a wooden

industry and government body. You can

steady employment will help get this

window. The character, the design, the

find us on consumer websites (ie www.

country back on track. We have to accept

finish are giving our customers so much

checkatrade.com) as a recommended and

change as the way forward and welcome

more choice when it comes to replacing

trusted tradesmen.

new opportunities that present themselves.

their old windows and doors or adding a

Don’t be pressured into signing up on the

new porch/conservatory.

first visit from a salesmen. Don’t be fooled

What five words best describe your

Our values at Croft Glass are about adding

by the incredible discounts on offer that

thoughts for 2016?

value to our products. We know the

must meet the deadline by midnight

CHOICE is key to the future. VALUE for

workmanship that has gone into making the

tonight. A credible Company, like Croft

money.

windows, doors etc and nothing is left to

Glass, quotations will stand for 30 days or

Customer SATISFACTION is important for

chance.

more. Now in our 31st year of trading, at

our REPUTATION to flourish in order to

We listen to what our customers want and

Croft Glass we can say that good old

SUCCEED.

our products speak for themselves. What are likely to be the major changes in your sector? ‘Energy efficient’ – this phrase is used in nearly everything we buy and it’s not to be ignored – we have to make these changes now. It’s no longer something we can put off until tomorrow – whether it’s the glass, U values, the material (PVCU/timber/ aluminium), every product we manufacture will incorporate the latest in technology to make our windows energy efficient to

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BUSINESS

MARTYN FILBY

Name of business: Post and Packing UK Type of business: Independent retail post office Position: Co-owner 23 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1NT 01892 739 799 www.postandpackinguk.com

What makes Post and Packing different?

What is the range of services that Post and

opportunities around Kent that lends itself

Post and Packing is an independent walk-in

Packing offer and can anyone use

to our business model, and as such we

retailer servicing the local residents and

these services?

intend to increase our portfolio to 20 retail

local businesses. At Post and Packing we

At Post and Packing we aim to fulfil all of

outlets in 2016. In addition to this, we have

pride ourselves on delivering a reliable,

your postal needs, and this is why we offer

invited a number of select franchisees to

trustworthy and professional service. Whilst

such a wide range of services. We go that

come on board with us to represent the

we are innovative with modern ideas, we

step further to ensure that the general public

Post and Packing brand throughout the UK.

ensure that we do not forget our core

and business customers alike are able to

We will also be looking to increase the head

values of customer service. We are bringing

save their precious time – reducing the

office team during the first and second

a new and exciting postal experience to our

hassle and the stress of shipping their

quarter of 2016 as well as recruiting more

retail and business customers alike.

important packages and of course more

shop staff to join our dedicated team.

At Post and Packing, we make sure that

importantly, saving money in the process.

your items are dispatched and delivered on

Whether it is a birthday card or a business

front of house team are extremely

time, intact and without any fuss or bother.

contract, we recognise that they are equally

important to the success of the business

We are here for your peace of mind and

important. Not only do we offer the full

with their friendly, ‘nothing’s too much

ease of access, as well as to help businesses

range of front end products such as first and

trouble’ approach. These attributes are

grow. We also run monthly offers

second class stamps, national and

some of the many reasons why customer

throughout the year, so be sure to look

international shipping and special shipment

service has been the key to our success in

out for the Christmas offer currently

including pre-9am and 1pm, we also offer

2015. We also have a fantastic professional

running in our shops!

the full complement of packaging materials,

business sales team that look after both the

At Post and Packing we recognise that our

boxes, envelopes etc. We also

Post and Packing company shops and also

offer a number of services

the Post and Packing franchise shops. All in

behind the scenes which

all, the prospect for 2016 is highly

again, are available to both

encouraging!

the general public as well as business customers.

What is your ultimate goal? The ultimate goal for Post and Packing is

What do you think 2016 will

very simple – we want to offer a modern

bring for Post and Packing?

all-round service experience that brings back

The year 2016 will

the old style high street friendly approach,

undoubtedly be an exciting

with reasonable pricing and a customer

time for Post and Packing.

service that we can be proud of.

We intend to continue with

110

our plan to grow the

What five words best describe Post

business and to build further

and Packing?

on 2015’s success. We are

Independent, individual, unique, friendly,

continuously looking at new

customer service led.

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BUSINESS

recruits

NEIL SIMMONS

Name of business: TN Recruits Ltd Type of business: Recruitment Position: Managing Director 1 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1NU 01892 571 105 www.tnrecruits.com

How do you see 2016 unfolding for

unemployment rate is at its lowest since

What’s the top piece of advice you’re

your company?

2008 and the number of employed is at its

giving clients?

Full of opportunity! Having just celebrated

highest since records began in 1971.

If you are recruiting staff, be open minded

our first birthday, we are in a very strong

Unemployment rates have dropped month

in terms of candidates with transferable

position having built our database of

on month throughout 2015 and I can’t see

skills and potential. All too often

candidates which means we can offer our

that trend changing.

companies will spend lots of time and

clients faster results and more options which

With fewer candidates available and a

money on attracting highly experienced

will save them time when recruiting staff.

growing number of vacancies, there are a

candidates, when a little time and effort in

number of potential implications in my

training a person who is a good cultural fit

services we offer our clients; we already

opinion;

and has bags of enthusiasm, could be a

recruit a considerable amount of permanent

• Companies will look more to recruitment

better option in the long term.

office based staff for a number of clients

agencies to attract their staff to save them

across West Kent and East Sussex, one of

business hours and advertising costs

are some golden tips;

our goals for 2016 is to increase the number

• Salaries will increase as companies try to

• Move quickly. Candidates may have lots

of temporary staff we supply.

attract or retain the best people

of choices and the longer the interview

• Commitment to training and development

process, the more chance of that

Recruits firmly on the map and become first

may increase as companies look to upskill

candidate getting snapped up elsewhere.

choice for more companies within the ‘TN’

existing staff if they are unable to find

You may also need to consider seeing

postcode. We will do this by continuing to

experienced candidates

candidates out of hours to be more

We will also be looking to increase the

Another aim for us will be to get TN

Also, if you are looking to interview here

work in an honest yet determined way whilst

competitive

exceeding our clients’ expectations with the

• Sell your opportunity to them. Tell them

level of service they receive whilst offering

about your company’s unique selling

the personal touch for their personnel.

points, why people enjoy working there,

We will also be looking to grow the team

what the long term prospects are. It might

and will be keen to meet anyone who

be worth introducing them to a positive

shares our philosophy of working hard and

member of staff you believe will be the

being 100% committed to delivering first

type of person they feel naturally aligned

class service.

to- it may just tip the balance

From a candidate perspective, we hope to

• Review your salary and benefits

be able to offer more opportunities as our

regularly. Are you being competitive with

client base grows and we continue to form

what you are offering? Are there other

strong relationships with leading employers

benefits that you can offer which won’t

in and around the ‘TN’ postcode.

have cost implications? A number of our clients offer childcare vouchers which can

What are likely to be the major changes in

save a member of staff lots of money and

your sector?

there are companies out there who can

According to some reports, the

assist you with this at no cost.

DECEMBER 2015

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24/11/2015 17:04

We build our mortgages around you All homes are different. The same applies to the need for home financing. Therefore we offer individual and flexible solutions for all your mortgage needs and requirements. We can find a financial solution to suit your needs whether buying a new home or remortgaging. Nigel Baldwin - Individual Banking Manager Tel: 01892 547756 email: niba02@handelsbanken.co.uk

Ray Keatley - Individual Banking Manager Tel: 01892 547475 email: rake01@handelsbanken.co.uk Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

www.handelsbanken.co. uk/tunbridgewells

Handelsbanken

Handelsbanken is the trading name of Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ). Registered in England & Wales No. BR000589. Incorporated in Sweden with limited liability. Registered in Sweden No. 502007-7862. Head office in Stockholm. Authorised by the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority (Finansinspektionen) and the Prudential Regulation Authority and subject to limited regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Details about the extent of our authorisation and regulation by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority are available from us on request.

J.RILEY & SO SECURE DEPOSIT FACILITY

J. Riley & Sons offers l, l 00 secure boxes in a variety of sizes at the new state of the art safety deposit facility in the centre of Tunbridge Wells. Using two grade eight vaults and fingerprin technology, the facility offers total privacy and se for personal and business secure item storage With deposit boxes starting from ÂŁ200, we accommodate all storage requirements. For more information or to book an appointment, please visit our website.

New security facility opens in Tunbridge Wells jrileyandsons.com

01892 529 741

info@jrileyandsons.com

73 Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN 1 2UY

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As an innovative firm of solicitors in Uckfield, Dawson Hart serves individuals and businesses on matters ranging from employment law and equine disputes to matrimonial and mediation. Nick Stockley

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FOOD

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

FAMOUS FACES!

REFURB

cooking up a storm

Fuelling the Fire For the past few months there has been a buzz surrounding the Old Fire Station in Tonbridge, as it has become a foodie haven, regularly holding pop up restaurant events hosted by some of the county’s finest eateries. However, this month there will be some famous faces plating up the dishes, as this year’s Great British Bake Off star Matt Riley and Professional MasterChef 2013 winner Steven Edwards each hold a restaurant event. The venue has already seen the likes of Fuggles and Sankeys from Tunbridge Wells delighting customers, as well as former Professional MasterChef contestant, Adam Handling creating a 10 course menu for guests.

NUTRITION NOTES A Tunbridge Wells based nutritional therapist has

It was one of the first Cook shops

teamed up with a fellow

in the country, when it opened

expert to publish a book on

back in 1997, and now, after extensive renovations, the store

sustenance for those fitted

in Tunbridge Wells has become the biggest in the UK. Relaunched just a few doors

with gastric bands. Claudia

down from the original shop on Monson Road, the popular catering outlet was officially opened by founders Edward Perry and Dale Penfold. “Cook Tunbridge

Williams, who runs her clinic

Wells was one of the first shops we opened back in 1997 and just happens to be my

in the town has worked with

local, so we’re delighted to be opening this new concept store,” Mr Perry says.

Nicola Pearson to create

“The business has evolved enormously

Nutrition for Gastric Band

over the years and

Wearers: A Practical

we have reached a size and scale now

Handbook, which explores

where we can really

how gastric band wearers can

start giving

boost their iron, Vitamin C and

something back. We want this shop to be

folate levels. Over 45 recipes

a celebration of our

are also included to support

remarkable food and

long-term weight goals

a real force for good within the local

and health.

community”.

www.on-gastricband.com DECEMBER 2015

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23/11/2015 12:49

Ml ROYAL WELLS HOTEL TUNBRIDGE WELLS

Join us for Fine Dining on New Year's Eve 2015 ÂŁ59.95 per person

Starters Vegetable, Chicken & Dumpling Broth

Mains

Desserts

Pan Fried Fillet Steak

Warm Passion Fruit & Vanilla Souffie

potato fonda nt, ba by leeks, bacon & mushroomjus

shortbread biscuits

parmesan crisp & basil dressing

Fillet of Turbot

white chocolate sorbet, tuille biscuits

Seared Scallops

crushed potatoes, Swiss chard, white wine & mussel broth

Strawberry & Champagne Layered Terrine

Saffron, Rocket & Sauteed Wild Mushroom Risotto

Dark Chocolate Mousse

cauliflower puree, crispy bacon with a mint dressing

raspberry compote, creme anglaise

Confit of Duck Leg roasted duck breast, potato gratin, baby carrots & red wine jus

Baileys, Mint & O range Tartlet

King Prawn Tempura

Twice Baked Roquefort Souffie

Selection of English Cheese

vegetable stir fry, chilli & mint dressing

wilted spinach, tarragon & w ild mushroom broth, ba by vegeta bles & turned pota toes

biscuits, grapes & walnuts

Pan Fried Quail Breast frisse salad, poached quails eggs, honey dressing

orange jelly, Chantilly cream

Pink Champagne Sorbet

Coffee & Chocolates

Followed by live music with Wayne Bridle www.waynebridlemusic.com Or alternatively, come and welcome the New Year in with us! With FREE entry and bar open till lam ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tel: 01892 511 188

Email: royalwells<l'ishepherd-neame.co.uk

Website: www.royalwells.co.uk

The Royal Wells Hotel, 59, l\lount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8BE

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FOOD

The geese enjoy the freedom of the fields all day, then come inside to feed and some warm straw. It’s a lifestyle that sounds almost pet-like, one that complements their character, according to Tony. “Unlike turkeys, geese are very friendly,” he says. “They will follow you around wherever you go. Once they get to know you, you can almost take them for a walk.” Tony advises his customers to cook the goose on a griddle, which allows the large amounts of fat to run off, and start with the breast side down. He says the bird should never be covered with foil, and advises pouring the fat out intermittently while cooking. After an hour, he suggests, it should be turned over and cooked it the ‘right’ way up, then the fat can be used to roast potatoes. While more and more people are turning to goose as hunger for tradition grows, Tony advises anyone wanting to try that it’s not a like-for-like replacement.

Give a goose a gander Adam Wells discovers why a goose could be a worthy contender for your Christmas dinner…

“I have to point out that the meat to bone ratio on a goose is nowhere near as good as on a turkey,” he explains. “If people tell me they have eight people to feed, I say they need a small turkey as well as a goose, in the same way you might have a ham and a turkey. “With a turkey, you can have a range of around 4kg up to almost any size you want.

o accustomed are families in Britain

This trend is one reflected by the evolving

to having turkey for Christmas,

operation at Woolpack Corner Farm in

serving a goose in its place may

Biddenden, where Kent Turkeys Ltd

seem to fly in the face of tradition. But eating goose at this time of year is a

relocated earlier this year. While the business has, as the name

Goose is much more limited, from about 4kg to 7kg.” As long as Tony’s gaggle keeps growing though, there might be enough to go round. Kent Turkeys will be at Penshurst farmers’

tradition almost as old as the pagan festival

suggests, historically revolved around

market on December 5, with a goose

adopted by the early church.

turkeys, customer demand has led to the

ready to cook, turning heads, and

recent addition of free-range geese.

possibly tastes, towards a more traditional

Turkeys only arrived in England as a 16th century import and, until about 100 years

“We only rear about 150 to 180 a year at

ago, would have been the less usual and

present, compared to 1,300 turkeys, but it’s

more expensive choice, with geese the

getting more popular, and lots of customers

For more information,

go-to bird.

are saying they want a more traditional

visit www.kentturkeys.co.uk

But the bigger bird is now far and away the most common centrepiece for a Christmas day table. About 10million are reared a year for this purpose, compared to nearly 250,000 geese,

Christmas dinner.

Christmas dinner,” says owner Tony Fleck. “We have a few left, but will have completely sold out by Christmas, so I can see us expanding that going forward. “ One reason geese have always been eaten

but the old favourite is making a comeback,

in winter is that their nesting season is mid-

with that figure the highest it has been since

March to May so, unfortunately for them, are

Dickens wrote A Christmas Carol, and rising

born at just the right time to have grown to

every year.

the perfect edible size by December 25.

DECEMBER 2015

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FOOD

UNDERCOVER EATER Our monthly look at what’s happening on the local culinary scene

most part of our meal there only appears be one member of staff in the establishment, and while he’s friendly, he’s clearly swamped by the six or so tables he’s waiting on. Despite pre-ordering our meals, we’re asked to confirm them more than once, and although we’re continually told we’re a ‘priority’ it takes over 90 minutes for our lunch to come. The Prosecco we order comes unopened, the bread and olives don’t turn up, and even the tap water gets forgotten in the madness.

The only thing is… Where do I start? While I appreciate we’re a large group venturing in to the restaurant in a busy period, we have pre-ordered for

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 visits Strada in Tunbridge Wells

exactly this reason, yet it takes almost two hours for anything to materialise. By this point, we’re so hungry we barely register what we’re eating, so even if the food had

Intro

lights, plus mirrors to create the illusion of a

been exceptional, I doubt we would have

Celebrating a colleague’s birthday is always

vaster space.

noticed. Members of the group have to take it in turns to ‘chase’ the food, and each time

tricky – you need somewhere quick (preferably so you can be in and out within

we’re advised it’ll be just a few minutes

an hour, but slightly fancier than

There are the classics – spaghetti, pizza and

more, but as minutes turn to hours, this

McDonald’s), a menu to suit all tastes,

pasta, plus fish dishes, salads, burgers and

clearly isn’t the case.

budgets and dietary requirements and

meat. Between us, we’ve pre-ordered a

When it comes to settling the bill, originally

somewhere within walking distance of the

good range of dishes, with some of the

we’re offered our drinks for free and a

office. Bearing all this in mind, we settle on

group opting for creamy carbonara’s and

discount on the food, but then the manager

Strada, who, with an extensive Italian

others choosing seafood. I opt for the

comes over and tells us that the whole meal

inspired menu appeals to all 10 of us who

salmon and lentils (£12.95) which is well

is on the house. It’s a welcome gesture, but

are dining.

cooked but perhaps a little bland (that’ll

we’re all in agreement that we’d rather have

teach me for trying to be healthy).

an enjoyable meal for full price than a free

Location

lunch with the added side of stress we’ve

Situated on the hill of Mount Pleasant Road,

Price

Strada is right in the heart of the town.

Prices here are fairly reasonable, and

had today.

comparable with other eateries in the town with

Strada

Décor

similar menus. Starters are from £4.50, mains

74 - 76 Mount Pleasant Rd

The interiors of Strada are modern with an

begin at £7.95 and desserts begin at £3.95.

Tunbridge Wells

Italian twist – there are touches of red, green

TN1 1RJ

and white along with grey suede panels on

Staff

01892 520 007

the walls, dark wood seating and bright

Here’s where things start to unravel – for the

www.strada.co.uk

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FOOD

PRICES AT A GLANCE Starters from £4.95 Mains from £10.50 Desserts from £4.95

FIT FOR A ROYAL Charlie Bond heads to the Queen’s Inn, Hawkhurst to sample their autumnal delights

he last time I set foot in the Queen’s Inn

almost be in Italy. And, just like an authentic

but we’ve done enough sharing, so we order

was a few years ago, when meeting friends

Italian antipasti, despite a good effort to finish

one each. As the gooey warm chocolate sauce

for drinks. We sat on uncomfortable squeaky

off the board, there is always something left

oozes out, we don’t regret our decisions for

white sofas in a near-empty room with Kylie

for fear of ruining your main course.

one second. And, in what seems like a few

Minogue blasting through the speakers. Since then, the bar and restaurant has found

Our waitress Clare comments “good choice,” when I select the lemon cured halibut

seconds the fondant, along with its tangy orange ice cream counterpart, is gone. By the time we leave, the restaurant is full,

two new owners in the form of Sharon

fillet (£17.50) for my main, so I have high

Retmanski and Sally-Anne Day, who bought the

hopes, but this dish exceeds all of my

guests are booking in to stay the night in one of

pub freehold in July 2013. They renovated and

expectations. Laid out on a bed of sauce

the luxury rooms, and there is a function on in full

reopened that winter, before completing the

vierge, basil orzo, black olive tapenade and

swing upstairs. Clearly the days of the white sofas

accommodation facilities the following summer.

tender stem broccoli, every mouthful of this

are over – this wonderful slice of fine dining and

dish is a taste sensation. I loathe bland food,

cosy country interiors has left a lasting

former hostelry – I enter to a bar filled with

but this dish has an abundance of flavour – the

impression, and I’m keen to return to sample

people chatting and drinking, and a cosy

tapenade with its salty zest complements the

more of their delights…is tomorrow too soon?

restaurant sympathetically in keeping with the

citrus flavours of the fish perfectly, and the

building’s 16th century heritage, but with

orzo with basil is fresh, light and a wonderful

contemporary décor.

alternative to a potato dish.

The end result is worlds away from the

We’re welcomed by Michael, who shows us

I’m reluctant to share even a morsel, but my

to a table by the wood burning stove and

guest, who is heartily tucking in to his

provides us with a drinks menu. I order a glass

Moroccan spiced lamb rump (£17.50) served

of the Chateau de Moulin de Mallet (£5.80) and

with a warm bean salad, pomegranate

my guest opts for a pint of Chapel Down’s

couscous and lamb bon bon, is keen for us to

Curious Brew. The wine is a Bordeaux blend

try each other’s meals. Usually I’m not a fan

and has a delicious bouquet of red fruits.

of lamb, but his dish could be a game

Selecting a starter proves difficult, but in the end we decide to share the antipasti board (£14.95) which arrives piled high with fresh

changer – the meat is beautifully tender and the spices give it that extra kick. You would think that we would have no

breads, sundried tomatoes, artichokes, olives,

room for dessert, but again, Clare lures us in,

The Queens Inn, Rye Road,

breadsticks, mozerella and a variety of cured

this time by saying “the chocolate fondant is

Hawkhurst, Kent TN18 4EY

meats. Despite the autumnal crispness

to die for.” Yes, we could share a chocolate

01580 754 233

outside, as we tuck in I feel as though we could

orange fondant with orange ice cream (£6.50),

thequeensinnhawkhurst.co.uk

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ROSEMARY SHRAGER'._S COOKERY

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 Day & Two Day Weekend Cookery Courses with Rosemary Shrager & Iain More Children & Family Courses • Private Celebrations Telephone: 01892 528700 Email: school@rosemaryshrager .corn

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11 RSCookerySchool

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www.rosemaryshrager .corn

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FOOD

THOUGHT FOR FOOD This month, our celebrity chef Rosemary Shrager reveals all about her new series

t last we have finished filming my

that keeps for a month after baking, so you

after a few years. The pudding is done for the

new series in the Cookery School –

can start early.

traditional stirring from east to west in honour

it’s called the The Chopping Block for

Recently, I went to open the Cards for Good

of the three wise men. I used to love taking my children to meet

ITV1, it’s 20 parts and is to be transmitted next

Causes pop up shop. It’s in the united

April. John Waite is my co-host – he won The

reformed church in Tunbridge Wells, and well

Father Christmas – my favourite time is

Great British Bake Off three years ago.

worth going to buy your Christmas cards from

Christmas Eve with all that wonderful

– they have cards from local and other

anticipation. As a child I used to rattle the

charities to choose from.

presents and almost break them in the process!

complete within a certain amount of time,

Have you ever wondered how some of our

chef Mark Mouzon is coming up with so many

then there’s a winner after each challenge, a

Christmas traditions started?

wonderful ideas. Don’t forget the very popular

winner at the end of the day and then an

Presents were exchanged on Boxing Day – it

Christmas puddings for sale in the patisserie,

overall winner at the end of the week. It

was the Victorians who brought the presents

also other little treats can be found.

becomes extremely intense! The winner

to be given on Christmas day itself. They also

receives £1,000 so there is a lot to cook for!

made turkey our traditional choice of food.

The Chopping Block is a competition with four couples against each other. Each day they

The Patisserie is going really well; our French

are given three challenges which they have to

Christmas is nearly upon us. As some of you

Crackers were invented by Tom Smith. He

already know, I’m not overly keen on buying

discovered the bonbon wrapped in paper,

presents when I’m made to just because it’s

then in 1847 he started putting trinkets in, then

Christmas – I like to buy a present when I see

he added a bang and by 1900 he was selling

something that I think that person would like. I

13million crackers!

do think it’s a lovely opportunity to make

pudding although it contained no plums. It did

chutneys, homemade chocolates and biscotti

start with beef but that was soon dropped

MAKES 32 BISCUITS APPROXIMATELY

Happy New Year!

Christmas pudding used to be called plum

presents at Christmas – I love receiving

BISCOTTI DI PRATO

I wish you all a very merry Christmas and a

www.rosemaryshrager.com

 Pour the flour into a mound on a work surface. Make a well in the centre and put the sugar, eggs and egg yolk, baking powder and salt into it. Add the melted butter and gradually work the flour into the ingredients in the well. Mix it with your hands until smooth. If your hands are too sticky flour them, you need to touch the dough with a light hand.

• 250g flour • 150g sugar • 2 medium egg • 50g butter, melted • 50g whole almonds

Lightly knead the almonds and orange peel into the dough for about one minute, sprinkling with additional flour if needed. Do not work it too much!  Butter and flour two baking sheets that are at least 37cm long. Divide the dough into two. Roll each piece of the

• pinch of salt

dough on a floured surface into a

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

5cm-6cm wide flat log and place the

• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest

logs at least 5cm apart on the baking sheet. Beat the egg yolk and brush over the dough logs.  Bake for in a preheated oven at 180°C for 15 minutes, reduce the temperature to 160°C and cook for a further 20 minutes. Remove from the oven. Cut the logs diagonally into 1cm slices and lay them on the sheets. Return to the oven for another five minutes and then cool them on racks.

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EVENT

SOCIAL SOCIAL NETWORKING Bethany School in Goudhurst played host to one of its largest ever events, for the launch of The Bethany Network, an exciting new direction for the school. The launch began with the Sixth Form careers afternoon, during which pupils met and ‘speed-careered’ with a whole host of businesses. The Bethany Network launch event followed in the evening with representatives from businesses in the Weald and beyond invited to celebrate and network over some sparkling drinks and delicious canapés in the school’s function suite. The Bethany Network aims to maintain friendships across the community between pupils, parents, friends and businesses in the area.

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Vinehall Rated Outstanding Nursery in Kent & East Sussex Vinehall Nursery School for children from 2 years old is situated in a purposebuilt department and set within beautiful countryside. Vinehall is easily located on the A21, just south of Robertsbridge, near Battle and close to the border between Kent and East Sussex. As part ofVinehall, an independent prep school, the Nursery offers quality care, an excellent education and a wide range of opportunities for all children. There are small classes with a generous ratio of adults to children, who care for and foster the children's learning and confidence in al I areas. The facilities are outstanding; classrooms are well resourced, light and spacious with ready access to the outdoors. In the Nursery, an airy space for creative activities opens on to the outdoor play area which has recently been developed to include additional investigation and imaginary play areas as well as woodland learning facilities for the children to explore. The Nursery has been described by ISI Inspectors as an 'outstanding example of education for this age'. An enthusiasm for learning is encouraged through stimulating and creative experiences. A wide variety of sport, music and drama is on offer, but there is much more besides. Highlights of a typical year include nature rambles and picnics, concerts and plays, charity events, an Arts Festival, visiting performers and a traditional Sports Day.

Vinehall Nursery is recognised as providing a nurturing family environment which promotes a happy and caring atmosphere. Many children attend our playground, Little Vines, which helps to imbed a positive start to a child's time at Vinehall. The children settle quickly, they are enthusiastic and very happy. Strong partnerships are encouraged with parents with daily communication and interaction through initiatives such as our 'Puzzle it Out' traditional games sessions every week. The Nursery is attached to Vinehall Prep School (up to 13 years). The children take the next steps in their stride; our Reception Classes are just across the corridor from the Nursery which ensures the children are very familiar with 'big school' and move on confidently. Teaching staff have high expectations for the children's behaviour and encourage each individual child to be the best that they can be. Head of Pre-Prep, Mrs Tessa Richardson says. 'We work really hard to provide the best possible care and education for our young children. Everything we do we try to make in to a learning adventure, believing children who engage in a topic will benefit hugely. The children make

Vinehall

a great start with us - do come and see what makes our school so special!' Early morning care is provided through our Breakfast Club. We also have a wide variety of enrichment activities such as gymnastics, football, Spanish and Drama. After School care is also available which includes a cooked meal for those children with working parents. To make life even easier a comprehensive mini bus service is available both to and from school. The buses cover an extensive area over Kent and Sussex and children from the age of 2 are able to make use of this service. Children attend from a wide area including; Heathfield, Tunbridge Wells, Ticehurst, Wadhurst and surrounding villages as well as Tenterden, Hawkhurst, Cranbrook, Rye and Camber. Nursery and Kindergarten operates a session by session system making it simple for parents to book what works best. Additionally funding is offered for Early Years children. We are currently registering places for Nursery in January and Reception in September and offer 'taster sessions' for the children in readiness for September. Ifyou would like to visit our school, please ring Karen on 01580 883090 for further details or visit www.vinehallschool.com

ROBERTSBRIDGE, EAST SUSSEX

Enrolling Now: January 2016 - Nursery & Kindergarten (Early Years Funding Scheme available) September 2016 - Reception, Year 1 & Year 2 For further information and to come and meet us for a taster session please call Karen Cooper on

01580 883090 or admissions@vinehallschool.com

www.vinehallschool.com

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6 teaching Specialist support staff for schools

The leading SEN recruitment agency for teaching assistant jobs across Kent We are currently recruiting teaching assistants for several mainstream and SEN schools across Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks.

The Teaching Support team are proud to be education recruitment specialists with knowledge in recruiting for the following educational establishments:

We have both temporary and permanent roles with immediate start dates as well as vacancies due to start over the coming months.

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Take a peek inside our Christmas Room at www.francis-iles.com

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W H AT S O N

DECEMBER ENCORE HERE’S A LIST OF KEY EVENTS TAKING CENTRE STAGE THIS MONTH

2ND » Christmas Calamity

The Westerham Amateur Dramatics Society (WADS) December show this year is a hilarious Christmas comedy by England’s favourite playwright – Alan Ayckbourn’s Seasons Greetings. Set in 1975, the play follows nine suburban – and uniquely dysfunctional – adults over the three days of an unforgettable Christmas. From December 2 to 5, the thespians will be taking to the stage in Westerham Hall to recreate this hilarious play. Doors open at 7.30pm and tickets cost from £6.50. For more info, or to book, visit www.wads-web.net

6TH » Night Song

Feel the festive cheer when you head to Penshurst Church on December 6 for the Penshurst Choral Society’s Carols by Candlelight concert. A Celebration of carols old and new, the programme includes Morten Lauridsen’s O Magnum Mysterium and a selection of Bob Chilcott carols. Anthony Zerpa Falcon conducts. Tickets cost £7.50 at the door which includes a donation to St John the Baptist Church. www.penshurstchoralsociety.co.uk 134

10TH » Consider Yourself

Based on Charles Dickens’ classic novel, Oliver! is one of the most successful musicals of all time and has a sensational score that includes such classics as Food Glorious Food, You’ve Got to Pick-a-Pocket or Two, Where Is Love? As Long As He Needs Me and I’d Do Anything. Brought to the stage in a new production by the same team that brought you last years’ A Christmas Carol, Oliver! will be taking centre stage at the Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells from December 10 to January 3. Tickets from £15.50. For timings and to book, visit www.trinitytheatre.net

11TH » Festival Finale

In a year that has featured some of the world’s best musicians, including Alessandro Taverna, Craig Ogden, John Etheridge, and Emma Johnson, Frant’s International Festival of Music 2015 rounds off a spectacular season with a return visit by one of the UK’s finest choirs, Kent Chorus. This year’s concert features highlights from Handel’s Messiah, and Vaughan William’s beautiful Fantasia on Christmas Carols. The concert takes place at Frant church and begins at 8pm. Tickets cost £12 and can be purchased at www.wegottickets.com or by calling Paul Barber on 01892 750 665

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W H AT S O N

11TH » Horse Play

With a star-studded cast, a spectacular set complete with stunning costumes, two live Shetland ponies, Tunbridge Wells’ annual pantomime has something for all the family. Cinderella comes to the Assembly Hall from December 11 to January 3 and playing the lead role is CBBC actress Dani Harmer, who is best known for her role as tearaway teen Tracy Beaker. Appearing alongside her is Jamie Rickers from CITV and Nickelodeon as Buttons and Doctor Who actress Louise Jameson as the Fairy Godmother. Tickets from £17. Book online at www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk or call the box office on 01892 530 613

11TH » Winter Willows

Forget traditional pantomimes and get lost in a rendition of a classic, when The Wind in the Willows comes to the Oast Theatre in Tonbridge. Alan Bennett’s adaptation of the classic Kenneth Grahame tale is brought to life for the Oast stage by their youth, hoppers and adult players. Join Badger, Mole, Ratty and Toad on a glorious adventure that takes us to the River, Toad Hall, the Wild Wood and into battle from Friday December 11 to Saturday December 19. Tickets from £7.50. For more information, timings and to book, visit www.oasttheatre.com

27TH » Royal Ballet

If you couldn’t make Kino’s screening of the Royal Ballet’s The Nutcracker earlier this month, then catch the post-Christmas encore on December 27. Starring Lauren Cuthbertson, Matthew Golding, Gary Avis, Francesca Hayward and Alexander Campbell, this captivating performance tells the story of Clara and her family and progresses through a sequence of dreams and enchantments that take Clara on her magical journey to the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of the Sweets. Timings TBC. For info and to book, visit www.kinodigital.co.uk

29TH » Off To See The Wizard

Follow the yellow brick road to Tenterden Leisure Centre, because from December 29 to January 3, they are putting on their first festive pantomime – The Wizard of Oz. Taking to the stage will be an all star cast, including ITV soap star Chris Simmons as the Scarecrow, CBBC star Lucinda Rhodes as Glinda the Good Fairy, and musical theatre actress Rebecca Cummins as Dorothy. The production will also include children from local dance schools as the Munchkins. Tickets cost from £9 per person and can be booked online at www.tenterdenpanto.co.uk, in person at Tenterden Leisure Centre or by calling 01580 765 987 DECEMBER 2015

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C U LT U R E

If you haven’t any plans for New Year’s Eve, why not venture out on to The Pantiles where you can experience the wonderful Hug Many

QUESTION TIME

INSIDE VIEW Paul Dunton offer his advice on where to go for an alternative Christmas night out

hat to do at Christmas? It’s not

Christmas Party takes place on the 20th with

always that easy to plan something

a host of local groups including Son of Kirk,

a bit different. Going to your local pub or

The Naming of Things and Joey Fat. The

restaurant is of course always a safe bet

Grey Lady Music Lounge will be continuing

but there are some alternative ideas out

with its thrice weekly candlelit showcases all

there, particularly if you fancy the idea of

the way through December on Tuesday,

comedy, ice skating, live music or even

Wednesday and Sunday evenings, but for

that family favourite…panto!

something a bit more party-esque the yearly

Let’s start with some comedy; The

with up to five superb local bands

Cafe on December 3 featuring a range of

performing on the same bill. It’s a great way

excellent renowned comics and a meal

to shake off any post-Christmas blues/

option. Salomons Estate is offering a feast

hangovers and dance the night away!

of Christmas party nights until December

If you haven’t any plans for New Year’s

23 and especially for children and families,

Eve, why not venture out on to The Pantiles

you can visit Santa who will be making a

where you can experience the wonderful

special appearance between Monday

Hug Many raising money for The Pickering

December 21 and Thursday December 24.

Cancer Drop-in Centre

I don’t know how he finds the time!

and ellenor. Details and tickets at

www.salomons-estate.com

www.hug-many.co.uk. Another option

What does the local music scene have

î PAUL’S LOCAL DISC PICKS

Boxing Day Bonanza is always great fun,

Trinity Theatre offers its popular Comedy

is the Local & Live Hootenanny at The

to offer? Local duo Slaves who are

Forum, featuring the likes of Sarah Tonin,

enjoying plenty of national and

David Migden & The Twisted Roots,

international success are appearing at the

Mystery Clarke Band, plus more to be

Assembly Hall on December 18 and The

announced. Tickets are only £25 available

Forum has an array of excellent events

from www.twforum.co.uk. The music

during the festive season with highlights

will be fantastic and there will be

including Space on December 11,

standing or should I say dancing

Dreadzone on December 12 and Keane’s

room for 250, It promises to be a

Tom Chaplin on December 17. The Forum

New Year’s Eve to remember!

n New House the new album from Tom Williams available at www.pledgemusic.com and www.amazon.co.uk

n The new album from local duo Ant & Fie will be official launched on December 6 at the The Grey Lady or visit www.facebook.com/antandfie

n Local & Live 2015 Festival 4 Disc compilation CD available to buy from www.localandlive.org

n The Standard Lamps Granary Session Limited Edition - deluxe 10” vinyl EP available from www.thestandardlamps.bandcamp.com

DECEMBER 2015

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Gorringes Tunbridge Wells LLP, 85 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1PX

Bespoke Picture Framing Fine Art Dealers You are not too late for your Christmas framing. We will be taking orders up to the eleventh hour.

Free Car Park Opposite Next To Waitrose

www.jkgallery.co.uk 138

33 Croft Road Crowborough

01892 610770

Studio Open Days Saturdays 5th, 12th and 19th December Noon until 5pm each day Etchings, watercolours, posters, books and cards Up The Garden Studio, Green Lane, Boughton Monchelsea, ME 17 4LF We are open by appointment throughout the year

please call 01622 743938 www.grahamclarke.co.uk

info@grahamclarke.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

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ADVERTORIAL

SOCIAL ARTIST SHOWCASE Tunbridge Wells art collectors were out in force at Chapel Place Galleryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recent private view of work by artist Henrietta Dubrey, who travelled from Cornwall to open the show. The exhibition runs until late December and features large oil paintings and a number of affordable and collectible drawings and collages. Founded by mother and son team Gill Ib and Nicholas Ib, Chapel Place Gallery represents work by modern and contemporary artists in a range of media. www.chapelplacegallery.co.uk PHOTOS BY CRAIG MATTHEWS

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ADVERTORIAL

For our 20th Christmas Exhibition the Fairfax will be alive with over 100 paintings and sculpture over both floors. As always for our Christmas Exhibition if buying an artwork as a gift, we offer the recipient the opportunity to change to an alternative item during January, if they are less than delighted. We hope you have an opportunity to visit the exhibition which includes work by artists new to the Fairfax. The exhibition runs until 18th January.

ON THIS PAGE Adam Hargreaves ‘Blossom at Sunrise’ Oil on Canvas 100 x 100cm Beckie Reed ‘Autumn Falls’ Acrylic on Canvas 80 x 100cm Beverley Rouwen ‘Cobweb Blowing’ Oil on Canvas 70 x 70cm Jack Frame’Little Pink Blossom’ Oil & Gold on Panel 80 x 80 cm

Open seven days a week • 23 The Pantiles (Lower Walk), Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TD

AM RY 1 4 0F E B DR EU CE B E2R0 1240 1 5

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ADVERTORIAL

The Fairfax Gallery was founded in 1995 on the elegant Lower Walk of the Pantiles. Whilst the Fairfax Gallery gallery has another gallery in Burnham Market as well as regularly exhibiting in London, New York, Singapore & Hong Kong, the original Pantiles gallery always ensures it has the latest and strongest examples on display in its spacious gallery set over 2 floors with an increasing stock in the run up to Christmas..The gallery offers services for private clients, interior designers including a home trail service to view art works in your own home or office to ensure the perfect piece.

ON THIS PAGE Mary Jane Ansell ‘Aurelia’ Oil on Panel 62 x 80cm Alsion Pullen ‘Fullam Palace’ Mixed Media 100 x 86cm David Eichenberg ‘Venice’ Oil on Aluminium 33 x 26cm Antonio López Reche ‘Riding Hare’ Bronze, 40 x 25 x 12 cm

Tel: 01892 525 525

www.fairfaxgallery.com

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DECEMBER 2015

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ICE RINK & PANTO DAVID BARTHOLOMEW

T H E AT R E

ENCORE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS LOVES CHRISTMAS

Productions returns with another of their

From the Assembly Hall panto to ice skating, there’s something for everyone this season…

the traditional tale of the beautiful

Leading Pantomime producer, UK winning shows Cinderella which follows Cinderella who dreams of escaping a life of housework to attend a royal ball. With

the help of her best friend Buttons and t’s not long until Christmas now!

two dedicated sessions for under 4s and

her magical Fairy Godmother she might

Tunbridge Wells is bursting at the

their parents, with main skating

just get there! CBBC Tracy Beaker

seams with an exciting array of

following every hour from 11am.

actress and Strictly Come Dancing

special Christmas events to raise the

Bathed in twinkling festive lights,

finalist Dani Harmer plays Cinderella,

spirits and put you in the festive mood.

wooden chalets will be selling Christmas

Jamie Rickers (CITV and Nickelodeon) is

Whether you are looking for something

gifts and festive produce. There will be

Cinders’ hilarious but totally charming

fun to do or a good traditional

lots of good food to choose from – Basil

best friend Buttons and local actor

pantomime you are sure to find it in

on Ice with locally sourced delicious

Louise Jameson (EastEnders, Doctor

Tunbridge Wells.

food, cafe style, freshly made pizzas

Who) is the delightful Fairy Godmother.

What better way to start the festive

stone baked in a wood fired oven from

The ice rink will be open until Sunday

season than with some magical ice

Pizza Cucina and mouth watering

3 January 2016. Tickets can be

skating on an open air ice rink? Wrap up

gourmet sirloin steak burgers, pulled

purchased in person at Assembly Hall

warm and take the whole family to join

pork in a hickory barbecue sauce and

Theatre Box Office, online at www.

in the festive season, or skate at night, lit

homemade waffles from Apple & Cor!

tunbridgewellsatchristmas.com and by

by the twinkling Christmas lights for a

Not forgetting the Fuggles pop up bar

calling 01892 554 645. Advanced

romantic evening. Set in the beautiful

selling real ale, some Belgian classics

booking is recommended at peak times

splendour of Calverley Grounds’

and other seasonal drinks.

– Thursday and Friday evenings, school

amphitheatre, the ice rink offers

And for lovers of pantomime, it’s that

holidays and all day Saturday and

something for everyone, from general

time of year again where it just wouldn’t

Sunday. Motorised and non-motorised

skating, mother and toddler sessions to

be Christmas without a good old

wheelchair users are welcome to enjoy

meeting Father Christmas himself in his

fashioned pantomime. Oh no, it

the rink in their own wheelchair but

cosy, warm log cabin!

wouldn’t! Children and adults alike love

must be accompanied by a competent

the excitement of live theatre, so make

skater. The cost of one hour’s skating

and a loyalty skating card. Parent and

Christmas even more magical with a trip

including hire of boots will be from £7

toddler sessions are every morning with

to the Assembly Hall Theatre.

for children and £9.50 for adults.

There are family tickets, concessions

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L U X U R Y T R AV E L

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

owering two and a half metres

at risk of becoming overcrowded – quite

Sons, Salford, was still in use up until three

above me, the giant sloth

ironic when you consider how much space

years ago. Thanks to government

emerging from the shadows

Patagonia has to offer.

subsidies, the estancia has its own school,

Determined to get even further off the

gymnasium and bus shelter, even though

would be terrifying if it wasn’t carved

beaten track, I’m here to explore the area’s

there are only 20 residents living on site.

from stone.

forgotten trails, hidden caves and rarely

of a cave below the Cerro Benitez

Many are gauchos: stern-faced, sullen

used glacial waterways, hoping to

men wearing flat, felt hats strung with

ago, the mylodon might have been a real

experience the real pull of Patagonia: quiet

pom-poms, who seem happiest when

threat, but now, this life-size statue is

isolation and the opportunity for adventure.

galloping on horseback across the plains,

Had I been standing here 14,000 years

simply a reminder of the enormous

Standing outside the park at sunrise, in

or sat around a campfire drinking mate from a gourd.

creatures that once roamed Patagonia’s

the grounds of the Estancia Cerro Guido,

fittingly large-scale landscapes.

I watch the pink-tipped granite towers

I barely exchange a word with my horse-

of the Paine massif emerge fleetingly

riding guide as we tackle the rugged trail up

from the clouds.

to Sierra Baguales, where the blocky

Vast grass plains, inhospitable ice fields and magnificent mountain ranges

mountain ridge resembles a lower set of

characterize this region, which straddles

A metal sign clatters urgently as wind

Chile and Argentina, and slopes towards

rages across the endless, empty plains,

molars. Any small talk would nevertheless

the end of the earth. It’s also home to one

where I imagine several hundred mylodons

be lost in the wind.

of South America’s most popular tourist

could comfortably have roamed. Now only

attractions, the Torres del Paine National

skunks, foxes and rheas skulk through the

buttercups and mounds of prickly hard

Park, where thousands of people come

rippling fronds of lilac and russet grass.

grass, affectionately known as ‘mother-in-

each year, from October to March, to

I wander through a warehouse, built by

Beneath us, yellow lady’s slipper orchids,

law cushions’, carpet the landscape.

complete the five-day W trek. But, with no

early pioneers in 1927, where an antique

Impaled on a barbed wire fence is the

limit on visitor numbers, the popular trail is

industrial press made by John Shaw &

carcass of a guanaco, licked clean by a

SCALING NEW HEIGHTS

144

Sarah Marshall heads off the beaten track in Chile to experience the real Patagonia

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L U X U R Y T R AV E L

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

news of a possible puma sighting close to the Hotel Las Torres. Most trekkers are more fixed on reaching their campsite for the night, but I’m determined to lay eyes on the elusive mountain lion while there’s still a glimmer of daylight. Resting in the scrub, close to Nordenskjold Lake, the muscular tawny cat is remarkably close to the trail. Raising alarm, two enormous tucuquere owls, the size of baboons, puff out their feathers and screech insistently from the branches of nearby trees. Sensing our approach, the puma shifts slowly uphill, hunching his shoulders as he stalks and successfully pounces on a hare, then disappears into the bushes. On our way back to the campsite, we step over the mangled silver husks of dead trees, strewn across the ground like soldiers on a windswept battlefield. A flock of birds become ghostly apparitions in the heavy mist, fading in and out of view, and as snow begins to fall, we prepare for another night in the wilderness. Putting my hiking boots to one side, I decide to leave the park by a different means. As summer comes, glacial meltwater creates a network of temporary channels, allowing access to new areas. I stop at the Salto Grande waterfall, and am reminded of Tennyson’s The Charge of the Light Brigade as a cavalry of watery, white horses crashes over the rocks. Wearing a heavy dry suit, I set off in a sea kayak along the Serrano River towards the neighbouring Bernardo O’Higgins Park. We paddle past sand dunes sculpted by the wind, and I enjoy a moment of calm looking back at the Paine massif behind me. But as strong gusts create spindrifts on the water and the current becomes overpowering, I’m forced to ask my guide, Will, a 23 year old Scot who spent three months kayaking around the coast of Scotland, for help. Exhausted and bedraggled, I make it to our wild camping spot for the night, and stumble up a hill for a view of the Tyndall Glacier. Will tells me the nearest person is 40km away, a

hermit gaucho who lives in the park. After a cold and rainy night, my spirits are lifted as we kayak towards the Serrano Glacier, weaving through an obstacle course of ice floes. A passenger ferry carries us and the kayaks for the remaining journey back to the town of Puerto Natales, and Will tells me of his plan to one day jump off the boat in a dry suit, swim ashore and trek across the mountains, sleeping in snow holes. Tracing the route line with his index finger, he’s already imagining the possibilities for adventure. Looking at the same snow-covered, jagged ridgeline, all I can see is difficulty, discomfort and potential danger. But I do also recognise its beauty. That’s one view every visitor to Patagonia – no matter where they might be standing – can share.

FACTS

puma, condors and caracara birds. Although pumas are widespread in Patagonia, they are often difficult to track in summer months. When I reach the campsite at Laguna Azul, even closer to the magical towers, I’m excited to hear there have been sightings in the area. Only two tents are pitched at the quiet site, where strong gusts cause water from the lagoon to lap the shore like ocean waves. It’s a very different story when I enter the park, and pitch my tent at the busy Torres campsite, where the majority of people are planning to set off on the W trek. As a train of backpackers with walking poles snakes towards the towers, now barely visible in the clouds, my guide, Nico, and I take a different path, through calafate bushes and lenga forest, to the top of neighbouring Cerro Paine Chico. We don’t encounter a single person along the way. An avid alpine mountaineer, Nico has lost one of his fingers – not to mention several of his friends – in climbing accidents. Yet his life revolves around the mountains. “Over time, your fear threshold grows,” he tells me. It’s obvious he can read the rocks around us in a way I’ll never understand. “There’s a new route I’ve been thinking about for some time,” he says, pointing to a faint thread etched along one of the towers. “It’s every climber’s dream to find a new line.” I admire Nico’s adventurous spirit, but as the loose shale gives way beneath me on our descent, I accept my fear threshold will probably never expand. My pace quickens, though, when we hear

Sarah Marshall was a guest of Swoop Patagonia who offers a 12 day wildlife and adventure trip to Torres del Paine, Patagonia, including private guide and transport, two nights (full board) at Estancia Cerro Guido, five nights supported camping in and around the park, a two day kayak trip with overnight camping and two nights in Puerto Natales, from £2,950 per person. Flights extra.

For more great holiday ideas contact Sunways Leisure Travel 5, Station Road, Longfield, Kent DA3 7QD 01474 704 186 enquiries@suways.co.uk www.sunwaysholidays.co.uk

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23/11/2015 12:18

SUNWAYS LEISURE

TRAVEL

SINCE 1973

HORIZONS. CLOSER. On a holiday you're looking for fun, excitement and adventure, as w relaxation. At Sunways we've been arranging holidays since 1973, and we we are talking about. We have an exciting selection of exclusive, bespoke adventures, and because we will only work with the very best tour operators, and price check every holiday, you can explore the globe safe in the knowledge that you have received the finest service in the travel business.

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23/11/2015 15:35

The Fish Room has a capacity of 16 and offers intimacy and an enchanting nautical atmosphere that will linger in the minds of all attendees.

The Africa Room can hold 20 comfortably and offers understated elegance, mystery and charm with African masks and decorations adorning the walls.

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25/11/2015 13:34

ADVERTORIAL

What’s the history of the ship?

SETTING SAIL

The Jean de la Lune (JDL) was built in 1957 in Brittany as a Staysail Schooner. She was initially designed as one of the last French wooden sailing fishing vessels in Lorient and worked out of Douarnenez. She is constructed of oak and her graceful fine lines reflect those of a traditional French sailing vessel. JDL was originally designed for sail but was fitted with an engine when motors came into fashion for commercial fishing. When her career as a fishing vessel ended in the 1970s, she was sold and her new owners spent eight years converting her back into a sailing vessel with accommodation for four crew and 12 guests. In 1983 JDL started work as a charter vessel, primarily taking scuba divers around the Scottish Western Isles. The winter of 1985 saw her depart for the Caribbean and the following year undertake a three month spell with Operation Raleigh. The ship has been extensively refurbished – what was involved in the renovation process, and what new features can be found? We have changed almost everything on the ship - we’ve got all new lightweight sails, there is a completely new comfortable interior, central heating, full height showers and lots of other home comforts that you would usually find in a modern hotel . New features include Wi-Fi on the entire ship (usually these are only in the marina), satellite telephone, presentation projector and good music sound system. We are still adding new things so more features will be coming soon, such an air compressor for divers and a powerful dinghy for playing with the many inflatables which we carry .

The Jean de la Lune is a traditional French sailing vessel – sleek, quick and manoeuvrable; the exact style of ship preferred by pirates for speed and a quick escape! The tall ship has been lovingly restored by owner and skipper of EIP Travel Joanna Whittaker.

What happens during a Jean De La Lune holiday? Every year during the winter months from October to March, Jean de la Lune sails on the warm waters in Tenerife which boasts an abundance of marine wildlife including whales and dolphins which feed in the nearby waters. Where can you travel to on the ship? The ship is fitted for category 0 waters – this means that she can sail anywhere in the world. However, we would not want to do this at present and next year’s schedule takes us from the warm waters of Canary

TO ENQUIRE CONTACT JOANNA Email: jdl@sailjdl.co.uk | Call: 0208 144 1253 148

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ADVERTORIAL

Islands in March, sailing up north along the

of parties and functions, from private

African Coast to Gibraltar and later up to

receptions for anniversaries, birthdays and

Lisbon, Porto, La Coruna before coming to

weddings to corporate product launches on

England in May.

our deck. We also have three amazing huge

JDL will be doing day trips and sunset

sails which can become advertising

cruises in Southampton, London and

billboards with the use of our projector

Liverpool before sailing to Dublin. In July

for video pictures in port and while sailing

JDL will also take a brief break to join the Tall

or still projection.

Ships Race from Lisbon to Cadiz and then

We are currently looking for a patron for

we will return back to Southampton for the

2016 whose logo we can fly proudly during

September boat show. After this JDL will be

the many events that we will be attending

returning to Tenerife for another winter of

next year. There’s also plenty of space for

sunny sailing with the whales and dolphins.

logos on the crew t-shirts and sailing gear, which is worn daily, seen by our guests who

Tell us what you can offer with regards to

come from all over the world from the UK,

team building events?

Canada to Australia.

JDL presents a unique venue for team building events because the ship is still

Do you need any sailing experience to

operating in a traditional fashion, where in

travel? And will you learn anything onboard?

order to set and trim the sails for sailing,

You don’t need any sailing experience – JDL

all ropes have to be pulled by hand.

is registered as a Sail Training Vessel and our

This of course creates amazing teamwork

professional crew are specially trained to

opportunities, from perfecting the

show you all you need to know. If you want

art of effective communication to

to join in daily sailing activities you will be

developing vital skills for each

shown all activities from actually steering

organisation or business.

(helming) the entire ship to climbing aloft –

JDL is registered as a Sail Training Ship

not only to take amazing photos but we can

by the MCA (UK Marine Coastal Agency)

also show you how to work with the sails;

and the Sail Training International who

you can try it all! At the end of the voyage

provide training programmes and

participants will receive a sail training

resources including special coaching and

certificate, which will open the doors for

training. We encourage our guests to take

them to do further training. Children and

part in all aspects of sailing from

teenagers are specifically encouraged to join

navigating, steering, trimming sails to

in the sailing routines and we have specific

climbing the yards for the brave ones.

programmes for each age group.

What can you do if you want to host a

if you choose to sit back and just enjoy

party onboad?

your time – you can and we will take care

JDL offers a unique events venue for all kinds

for the sailing.

Of course, everything is voluntary and

Facebook: SailJDL | Twitter: @SailJDL | www.sailjdl.co.uk

OUR WEEKLY SCHEDULE INCLUDES SUNDAY arrival MONDAY all day sailing towards La Gomera, whale and dolphin spotting all day, evening arrival to the marina TUESDAY wake up in the picturesque marina on the sister island of La Gomera – visit to the rainforest WEDNESDAY sailing to Los Gigantes – on the way we will pass the world famous permanent and temporary feeding places for over 28 species of whales and dolphins, stay overnight at an anchor in Los Gigantes bay, stargazing in the light unpolluted bay and dinner by candlelight THURSDAY wake up for a swim in warm waters of the bay if we lucky we may be accompanied by dolphins who often visit the warm waters FRIDAY day sailing and late return to San Miguel Marina SATURDAY an option for a sightseeing trip and a final swim in the ocean before returning home to UK Individual bookings from £599pp including flights and full board. Group rates are negotiable with bespoke itineraries available to suit group interests.

DECEMBER 2015

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Defined by the statement, "It's yachting, not cruising," SeaDream Yacht Club offers guests the ultimate yachting experience - the epitome of casual elegance. More akin to a private luxury yacht, with a maximum of 112 guests and an award-winning crew of 95, the crew to guest ratio ensure that the service aboard each of SeaDream's twin mega-yachts is comfortably attentive. In 2016 SeaDream Yacht Club will spend the winter months in the Caribbean and the summer months in the Mediterranean with sailing itineraries that include extended stays in picturesque small ports, breath-taking bays and secluded islands that are impossible to navigate by the larger cruise liners and in line with a yachting experience. explore the r-P""""':!l'I Caribbean's most secluded destinations from the private coves and inlets of St Lucia and grottos of Virgin Corda to the lesser known ports ~ if:!t,~ of Charlestown, Nevis, the cluster of five uninhabited islands of the Tobago Cays and the treasured retreat of St Barts. In the Mediterranean, SeaDream yachts are small enough to squeeze through tight spots such as the transit of the famous Corinth Canal. Those 'new to cruise' enjoy the freedom of exploration that comes with travelling on water, whilst avoiding the overwhelming . .______________ __________.. size of traditional cruise ships. Highly trained chefs prepare meals using ingredients sourced from local ports of call, creating menus that change daily alongside an award-winning wine list. SeaDream Yacht Club also offers innovative dining from a traditional Japanese menu to an optional Raw Food menu.

______..

With adventure activities available as part of the inclusive SeaDream Yacht Club voyage, guests have access to a host of water sports including wave runners, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, all of which can be launched directly from the yachts' Marina. pampering, the SeaDream Spa is the only Thai-certified spa at sea offering forty different therapies and treatments, many of which may be enjoyed outdoors, on deck in the private, open-air massage area.

For more information and to book your SeaDream Yacht Club voyage please contact your local Baldwins Travel Group branch for more details: Baldwins Baldwins Baldwins Baldwins

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Travel Travel Travel Travel

Tunbridge Wells Tonbridge Maidstone Uckfield

01892 01732 01622 01825

511999 351223 762141 760488

Grace Travel of Cranbrook Travelux ofTenterden Sevenoaks Travel www.baldwinstravel.co.uk

01580 714411 01580 764344 01732 458255 #Holidaylnspirations

23/11/2015 15:35

ADVERTORIAL

NO MORE POWER CUTS? THE FACTS As the exclusive distributors for HGI generators in Kent, Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire, Generating Interest in Wadhurst is dedicated to ensuring the right equipment is installed and maintained correctly in your home. We find out why, with their help, you’ll never be left in the dark

n October 2014, the National Grid stated that there was a 4.1% surplus of peak supply over peak demand. Since that figure was published, the power station called Didcot B was destroyed by a fire in October 2014; on May 21 2015, Didcot C was closed, not because it wasn’t working, but in order to comply with regulations relating to emissions. Didcot C’s closure reduced the Grid’s capacity by 7%. Further, by March 2016, four more power stations will have been shut down for the same reason. They are all smaller than Didcot C, but the overall effect is that the grid simply will not be able to generate the electricity that is required, and by a substantial margin. Dungeness was due to be decommissioned in 2015, but has been reprieved until 2020, with a possible extension to 2024.

On a local level, the project of cutting back trees to prevent power cuts from falling branches ceased approximately four years ago in most areas in order to save money! What power cuts will cost the country is anyone’s guess, but it seems inevitable that it will be far greater than the cost of tree surgery. So, what is to be done? Renewable energy sources are nowhere near able to bridge the gap. Wind and wave power are able to contribute only a minute amount. Solar power can do well on a perfect summer’s day, but really doesn’t figure on a cold, overcast winter’s day. Nuclear is not able to rescue us either. The EDF plant at Hinkley Point in Somerset is running years behind. Drax, the country’s largest power station (10%) is in some turmoil following the withdrawal of subsidies for carbon capture. All the forecasts are that consumer and general industrial demand will continue to increase, and some major new projects such as the electrification of fast rail networks will consume huge amounts, so the gap will only increase further. What, therefore, can we expect? Reduced voltage, certainly. Most electrical equipment will run on 210 volts, just perhaps not as well as with 230 volts, but some will not cope with it without suffering damage. And it seems inevitable that there will be

power cuts at peak times, particularly in vulnerable areas, until a better managed power supply is put in place…and that will not happen for many years. Everything that has been set out above is in the public domain, and nothing has been exaggerated – indeed, the writer has carefully avoided any overstatement or alarmism. But he must own up to a vested interest: he is a director of Generating Interest Ltd, a company that supplies and installs generators of all kinds, and specialises in those which cut in automatically when there is a power cut, and cut out again when mains power returns. While there are a number of ways of coping with power cuts, at present a backup generator is by far the cheapest and most reliable solution. Generating Interest Limited The Clock House, High Street, Wadhurst, East Sussex TN5 6AA 01892 599 696 www.generatinginterest.co.uk nigel@generatinginterest.co.uk

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Make a calculated decision this winter. Porsche winter wheels and tyres. Below ?°C the rubber compound in summer tyres hardens causing a drop in performance and an increase in braking distances by up to 12%*. Porsche Approved N-rated winter tyres are specifically designed for your Porsche and provide increased performance and greater safety in cold, wet and snowy conditions.

Whilst your summer wheels and tyres are off the road, they can be securely stored for you by

Porsche Centre Tonbridge.

For more details call 01732 386 531 .

• [!]

Scan to see winter tyre performance in action

·summer tyre s versus winter tyre s. Braking with AB S on wet road surfa ce, 50 to O mph at +3°C

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Porsche Centre Tonbridge Brook Farm, Five Oak Green Road, Tonbridge TNll OQN info@po rscheto nb ridge. co. uk www.porschetonbridge.co.uk

23/11/2015 15:39

MOTORING MATTERS

OUR ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM THE MOTORING SCENE

DRIVING UP SALES

PA/FEATURE FILE

CAR AND DRIVING.COM

As the nation flocks to see Daniel Craig as 007 in Spectre, the Aston Martin DB5 has been revealed as the most soughtafter Bond car of them all. According to researchers at online marketplace eBay, a piece of DB5-related memorabilia sells every 30 minutes during daylight hours. At 37 sales or more per day, the DB5’s iconic styling seems to strike as close to the heart as it always has. Posters, model cars, full-size car parts and even complete vehicles make up the numbers and give the DB5, which featured first in Goldfinger, a clear lead over the next-most popular Bond car.

TYWIN’S TYRES Game Of Thrones actor Charles Dance’s 1967 Ford Mustang Convertible is being sold at auction, and could reach £30,000. The bright red soft-top has been owned by Dance since 2002, was his daily car up until 2013, and has since been the subject of a complete restoration. As well as refurbishing the car to its original condition, the restoration included fitting new floor and wing panels, new brakes and a completely rebuilt 4.7-litre V8 engine.“This is the ideal car not just for Mustang fans but for Game of Thrones obsessives around the world,” says Classic Car Auction’s general manager Guy Lees-Milne. “Just imagine driving the car once owned by Tywin Lannister!”

BRILLIANT BENTLEY

BEST IN SHOW

SUPERSTAR CAR

Bentley’s EXP 10 Speed 6 concept car has been awarded Gold in the Transportation category of the German Design Awards – one of the most highly respected design competitions in the world. The German Design Council selects a panel of international design experts to judge the entries. They selected the EXP 10 Speed 6 for the Gold award as a result of its timeless, iconic Bentley design, clever use of new materials and aesthetic dynamism. The EXP 10 Speed 6 is a British interpretation of a highperformance two-seater sportscar. It showcases the future direction of luxury and performance using the finest materials and advanced hybrid technology – a powerful, exquisite and individual concept.

The Jaguar E-Type has been named the best British car by visitors to a classic car show, after Classic & Sports Car magazine ran a competition to find the nation’s favourite. Thousands of visitors from all over the world who attended its London Show at Alexandra Palace were invited to cast their votes. The nominees included the original Mini, McLaren F1, Bentley Speed Six and original Range Rover, but it was the famous Jaguar that emerged victorious. John Edwards, managing director of Jaguar Land Rover Special Operations, was delighted by the result, describing it as a “fantastic accolade” for one of Jaguar’s most recognisable models ever built.

Hot on the heels of the Honda HR-V taking the 2015 What Car? Reader Award crown, the NSX supercar is in the running to continue Honda’s success for a second year in a row. Compiled by What Car? experts and voted for by readers, the shortlist for the 2016 Reader Award features the most eagerly anticipated new models coming to the UK market in the next twelve months. Arriving in the UK next year, the NSX has been specially created to bring a “new sports experience” to the supercar sector. DECEMBER 2015

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WHAT’S NEW? You’ll need your strongest magnifying glass to see the tiny nips and tucks at the front and rear, but the financially savvy will notice the improvements that have been made to the fuel economy and

UPDATING A

CLASSIC Matt Kimberley takes the new BMW 3 Series for a spin to see what changes have been made… 154

emissions of various models. There’s now a version that dips to 99g/km, earning free road tax – although to get it you’ll need to add the £1,550 automatic gearbox. You’ll have to do the maths on that one. LOOKS AND IMAGE The front bumper is a little less sculpted than before, with a greater emphasis on horizontal lines. That’s to cater for the tastes of larger markets than ours. The 3 Series is still an image-focused car, though, proudly displaying the correct badge for business types and feeling very much the part on the inside, too. You could argue that when it comes to premium cars, the domination of the

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FACTS

BMW 320D, FROM £29,785 Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol producing 188bhp and 295lb/ft Transmission: Eight-speed automatic driving the rear wheels Performance: Top speed 146mph, 0-62mph in 7.3 seconds Economy: 67.3mpg combined Emissions: 111g/km of CO2

What you get is super-stable handling and oodles of grip on the M Sport versions, and well-controlled floatiness on the Efficient Dynamics model three-box saloon is not as strong as it

hefty price tag. The test car only had

absurd figure you should run away

once was, but there’s still a strong

around 500 miles on it so the engine

from. A standard but very well equipped

following for what has been a hugely

was almost certainly still at its tightest,

335d, with all its lovely torque, is less

popular and influential model in Britain.

but it’s fair to say that it felt nowhere

than £41,000. Many of BMW’s options

If you’ve got a new 3 Series, you’re

near as brisk as its on-paper 188bhp and

are simply replacing existing systems

doing alright.

295lb/ft suggest.

with better versions rather than adding

What you do get is super-stable

crucial new tech, so stick as close to

SPACE AND PRACTICALITY

handling and oodles of grip on the

standard spec as you can. In Sport trim

There’s a big boot behind the three rear

larger wheels of M Sport versions, and

and with the automatic added, the 320d

seats, with recessed bins at the sides and

well-controlled floatiness on the

is arguably cheaper to own than rivals

a large aperture that lets you

Efficient Dynamics (ED Plus) model and

from Mercedes, Audi and Jaguar.

nonchalantly slot larger cases straight

its tiny-looking but efficiency-boosting

in. In the front there are useful door

16-inch alloys. Avoid the inconsistent

WHO WOULD BUY ONE?

bins, and while you won’t fit much into

Servotronic steering, though, which

This is a car with a long-standing trail

the glove box, the cabin is very spacious

completely ruins the standard setup’s

of success in this country, but its days as

for passengers.

linearity and directness.

the default upgrade from a Mondeo or

Legroom in the back is ample, and

There’s good visibility in all directions,

Passat have been ended by the splurge of

more accommodating than it looks

which is handy because you don’t sit too

crossovers and compact SUVs, most of

because the 3 Series has longer rear seat

high. Using the iDrive is a joy these

which are waving the ‘premium’ flag as

squabs than many non-premium cars

days, and if you upgrade the standard

hard as they can. The BMW might be

that use shorter squabs to increase the

BMW Business navigation to the

becoming the understated choice, but it

appearance of space. Leather-covered

Professional grade you’re rewarded with

still drives and handles better than any

surfaces are potentially vulnerable to

a wider, sharper screen with more

of its high-riding rivals.

the rigours of family life, but that’s

functionality. It’s not a cheap step up,

pretty much a given in this part of

though. My pick of the options is the

THIS CAR SUMMED UP IN A SINGLE

the market.

superb head-up display. Again, it’s

WORD: Classic

pricey, but once you’ve had it you’ll BEHIND THE WHEEL

wonder how you ever managed without.

IF THIS CAR WAS A...: kitchen table it would be from the mainstay range at an

The 320d is likely to be the biggest seller. The efficiency numbers are

VALUE FOR MONEY

oak furniture shop. It’s robust, looks

impressive and that optional eight-speed

With options the 320d xDrive I drove

smart and feels solid, carrying with it a

automatic gearbox is superb, despite the

totalled £46,000. That’s a terrifying,

style that will never go out of fashion.

DECEMBER 2015

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Cooper Tunbridge Wells

Untitled-4 2

The Ultimate Driving Machine

23/11/2015 15:39

BMWX5 xDRIVE30d M SPORT. SINCE ITS LAUNCH THE BMW X5 HAS BEEN SETTING MILESTONES IN ITS CLASS - A CLASS OF WHICH IT WAS THE FOUNDING MEMBER.

BMW Select representative finance example: BMW X5 xDrive30d M Sport with optional metallic paint. Terms of agreement 4 7 monthly payments of On the road cash price* Customer deposit Dealer deposit contribution

48 months

Amount of credit

£39,748.40

£559.00

Option to purchase fee**

£1.00

£49,365.00

Optional final payment**

£20,889.28

Total amount payable

£56,779.88

Rate of interest

6.2% Fixed

£7,649.00 £967.60

BMW FS Deposit Contribution

£1 ,000.00

Total deposit

£9,616.60

Representative 6.2% APR

The third generation X5 has again surpassed its own benchmarks - as a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) that delivers outstanding luxury and unparalleled comfort in every regard and never fails to exceed expectations.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, OR TO ARRANGE A TEST DRIVE'\ CONTACTYOURNEARESTCOOPERCENTRETODA~ Cooper Tunbridge Wells Longfield Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3UE 01892 629 503 www.coopertunbridgewellsbmw.co.uk

BMW EFFICIENTDYNAMICS. LESS EMISSIONS. MORE DRMNG PLEASURE.

Fuel economy figures for the BMW X5: Extra Urban 36.2 - 54. 3 mpg. Urban 21. 7 - 43.5 mpg. Combined 29.1 - 50.4 mpg. CQ 2 emissions 226- 149g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions. Cooper Tunbridge Wells is a credit broker and not a lender. Finance example is for a BMW Select agreement for a BMW X5 xDrive30d M Sport with optional metallic paint, with a contract mileage of 40,000 miles and excess mileage charge of 10.57p per mile. Applies to new vehicles ordered between 1 October and 31 December 2015 and registered by 30 March 2016 (subject to availability). Retail customers only. *On the road cash price is based on manufacturer's recommended retail price and includes 3 year BMW Retailer Warranty, BMW Emergency Service, 12 months' road fund licence, vehicle first registration fee, delivery, number plates and VAT. **Optional final payment and option to purchase fee not payable if you opt to return the vehicle at the end of the agreement (vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges may be payable). Finance available subject to credit acceptance to UK residents aged 18 or over. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Terms and conditions apply. Offer may be varied, withdrawn or extended at any time. 'BMW Select' is a form of hire-purchase agreement provided by BMW Financial Services (GB) Limited, Summit ON E, Summit Avenue, Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 OFB. You will have a 14 day statutory right to withdraw from the agreement. Inchcape Retail trading as Cooper Tunbridge Wells common ly introduce customers to BMW Financial Services, for which we may receive payment if you enter into an agreement with them . T his introduction does not amount to independent financial advice. "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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23/11/2015 15:39

LIFE & STYLE

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

COOK

FESTIVE FOOD ALL WRAPPED UP! COOK on Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells has unveiled its full Christmas range to help take the stress and strain out of entertaining. Whether you need help with dinner party canapés, family suppers or Christmas Day itself, COOK can do the hard work for you. COOK’s gourmet Christmas Lunch for eight (£12.50 a head) includes all your classic Christmas recipes and is ready in less than three hours. Other seasonal dishes include Scottish Salmon triple terrine, poacher’s pie, beef wellington and wild venison casserole. And for an alternative to Christmas pud, try a chocolate and salted caramel vacherin or a white chocolate and winter berry choux ring! Don’t get stuck in the kitchen at your own Christmas party – use COOK canapés instead which are prepared by hand and cook from frozen in 20 minutes. Try tikka prawns with mango chutney, Asian-style crayfish cups, sausage and mash and duck and hoisin puffs. To view COOK’s full Christmas range pop down to the new bigger, better shop at 12 Monson Road (01892 523 840). Customers can also shop online at www.cookfood.net and pick up their shopping from the shop through the Click and Collect service.

MICALLEF Claudia Bradby pearl jewellery combines hand selected pearls with sterling silver and semiprecious stones, crafted to help you build a wardrobe of contemporary jewellery to enhance every occasion. Claudia Bradby is must have pearl jewellery loved and worn by Helen Mirren and Katie Derham. You too can purchase pearl designs that embody the trend for sophisticated luxury at Micallef Jewellers. Bracelet shown is the Lucia Couture bracelet at £162. Jewellery prices start from £34. Micallef Jewellers 11 Blacks Yard, Bligh’s Meadow, Sevenoaks 01732 464 648

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P R O M O T I O N A L F E AT U R E

THE BELL INN, TICEHURST Frost Fair

Frost Fair At The Bell Sunday 6th December 11am to 3pm Free Entry

Frost Fairs appeared in London between the 15th and 18th century when the Thames froze over and everyone came out to share and sell their produce in a collective effort to help each other out. In the spirit of helping excellent local artisans, The Bell in Ticehurst will be hosting its own Frost Fair where only the best local produce and crafts will be sold. Inside and out, stalls will be laden with everything you need for the perfect Christmas. Come and join us when the sweet sound of carol singers and general goodwill will emanate from the pub. Entry is free and seasonal refreshments will be available. Sunday lunch will be served in the restaurant (booking essential).

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

PETER JENNER

Peter Jenner’s (43 The Pantiles) offer their advice for jewellery buying this Christmas You can tell so much by looking at the jewellery the lady or gentleman in question currently wears. Ask yourself, for example, does she prefer stud or drop earrings? Does he prefer chain-link cufflinks or solid fittings? Is the general style delicate and fine or big and bold, classic or contemporary? What colour metal does she wear and what necklace length? Would she like a piece set with a coloured gemstone and, if so, what are her colours? Pearls or mother-of-pearl could offer a solution. Spoil a loved one with a special piece that has individuality and craftsmanship. Choose one-off pieces, exclusive designs, handmade on site or from a great selection from small-scale award-winning British designers, all available at our established shop. Our experience and personal service will help you pick the perfect present! Happy Christmas!

ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA On Sunday December 6 at The Assembly Hall Theatre, the Royal Tunbridge Wells Symphony Orchestra welcomes Xuefei Yang to perform with them the well-known guitar concertos by Rodrigo and Vivaldi. Xuefei is acclaimed as one of the world’s finest classical guitarists. Hailed as a musical pioneer - her fascinating journey began after the Cultural Revolution, a period where Western musical instruments & music were banned. Xuefei was the first-ever guitarist in China to enter a music school, & became the first internationally recognised Chinese guitarist on the world stage. To find out more about this concert visit www.rtwso.org

www.peterjenner.com

A HAPPY HADLOW CHRISTMAS! It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas, and Santa has been

All Garden Centre purchases and bookings for lunch will be

very busy stocking our farm shop with delicious local

entered into a prize draw to win a £50 voucher to spend in

produce (including turkeys) and Broadview Garden Centre

the Garden Centre. Winners will be notified in January.

with a fantastic range of gifts, Christmas trees and

Christmas is a time for giving and you’ll also be supporting

decorations. With gifts priced to suit every pocket, and

our students as, at Hadlow College, our 360-degree approach

spectacular floral arrangements designed by our award-

means that students are actively involved in helping to

winning florist, you’re sure to find that special something for

maintain Broadview Gardens, assisting in Broadview Garden

your special someone.

Centre and gaining practical work experience in our

Or, treat yourself and friends to a delicious festive lunch from

commercial nursery. All profits made are re-invested into the

£18.50 for two courses. Our quality, locally sourced Christmas

work of the college.

menu is available at Broadview Tearoom from 1 to 23 December.

www.broadviewgardens.co.uk/tea-rooms or call 01732 853 286

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LOCAL LUXURIES

julia louise pilates fully equipped pilates home studio with reformers, V frame and chair

BeN cLaRKsoN gaRDeN seRvIces Botanically Trained 19 years’ experience

ALSO RESTORATION OF HARDWOOD GARDEN FURNITURE langton green 07779 328087 juliapilates@hotmail.co.uk www.julialouisepilates.co.uk

55b St Johns Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 9TP Tel: 01892 618661 Mobile: 07840 357833 Email: ben.clarkson.gardening@gmail.com

Handcrafted, custom-made storage solutions for kitchens & interiors Qualified, insured & accredited by the Institute of Carpenters

• 07725 812356 • www.ftacarpentry.co.uk Under New Management

TVR (Wadhurst) Ltd

FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS ...good, friendly advice, you could only find on your high street! Domestic Electrical Sales

Installation & Repairs

Aerial & Satellite Installers

VST Jewellery & Watch Repairs We can expertly repair delicate jewellery that may have been deemed impossible to repair. We perform all repair services at our workbenches - faster, less expensive and better.

Audio & Radio

34 Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2PT

5 Central Parade, Wadhurst TN5 6AL 01892 783 042

www.vstjewellery.co.uk

01892 526119

info@jewellery.co.uk

LOCAL LOCKSMITH NO CALL-OUT FEE!

24HR SERVICES

uPVC / DOUBLE GLAZING / PATIO DOORS & WINDOW LOCK REPAIRS. JUST MOVED IN? WHO HAS A KEY? COMPLETE LOCK CHANGE SERVICE. LOCK-OUTS / LOST KEYS / BROKEN LOCKS. EMERGENCY LOCK & DOOR OPENING. DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL WORK. ALL TYPES OF LOCKS / HARDWARE SUPPLIED & FITTED.

Call Paul on:

07506 451405 or 01892 440067

160

Independent Postal Service for retail and business DO YOU Need to outsource your postal requirements? Need a company to take care of your eBay orders? Need a post box with private mailing address? Have items requiring packaging and shipment?

Call 01892 739799 or 0845 498 9622 www.postandpackinguk.com 23 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1NT

DECEMBER 2015

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LOCAL LUXURIES

Essentially

Unique

House Portraits by a local water colour Artist Prices start from £285 in watercolour

Contact Paul H Crawford Confidentiality assured

Email: p.crawford77@yahoo.com Tel: 07505 237 949 Website: www.paulhcrawford-artist.com

GARDEN DESIGN

LANDSCAPING

Taylor’s All round HANDYMAN • Painting & Decorating • Tilling, flat pack furniture, fence repairs ect • Fully Insured Please contact Brain Taylor Mobile Phone: 07768 907111 Email: brian-taylor@live.co.uk

A Williams

Bathroom Design & Installations • Design • Over 10 yrs Experience • Install

01797 260451 07831 868848 GARDENEYE.CO.UK

Give Ashley a call - 07727 049241

• Supply • Fully insured • No Job Too Small

a.williams951@btinternet.com

LAWNCULTURE PLUMBER -YOU NEVER KNOW WHEN YOU MIGHT NEED ONE! All general plumbing, with no call out fees!! • Blocked toilet, drains, ect

• No job too big or small

• Heating problems

• All work guarenteed

t: 01892 672299 m: 07818 461067 e: chris@ansellplumbing.com www.ansellplumbing.com

SPECIALIST MOWING AND LAWN RENOVATION Associated Lawn Treatments Top Dressing • Aerating • Scarifying PROFESSIONAL SERVICE FOR OVER 35 YEARS T 01732 359049 M 07710 327012 E lawnculture@hotmail.co.uk W www.lawnculture.com

Bartlett Tree Experts Exceptional Trees Deserve Exceptional Care Tree & Shrub Pruning • Planting • Tree Stock Surveys • Woodland Management • Health & Safety Reports • Disease & Insect Control • Pest & Disease Research • Diagnostic Servcices

PLEASE CALL BOB NOAKES FOR A FREE QUOTATION 01959 525821 sevenoaks@bartlettuk.com www.bartlett.com DECEMBER 2015

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DANCING AND PRANCING DEER - £17.50 EA(

TENTER DEN Untitled-5 1

BATTLE

ONLINE 25/11/2015 16:09

PAGES OF HOMES, INTERIORS & GARDENS

AND

DECK THE MOTE

Preparing for Christmas at Ightham Mote PAGE 180

GARDENERS' GIFTS What to buy lovers of the great outdoors PAGE 215

FINE DINING

How to eat in style PAGE 166

CHRISTMAS INTERIORS….BEAUTIFUL WEALDEN PROPERTIES….WINTER GARDENING TIPS F E B R UA RY 2 0 1 5

SO TW_DEC15_Interiors_SectionOpenerCover.indd 3

23/11/2015 13:17

Get Read)) for Christmas with

" . , l(jr,,( ICosi-

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Dress your table with our festive tablecloths, place mats, table runners & matching napkins in our

folkloric Reindeer print. Add a frilly retro apron and a cushion or two plus our Christmas bunting to deck out your home all in a 100% cotton. www.raggedrose.com sales@raggedrose. corn 01622 812897

interiors by

sk1ri'riers

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS

Specialists in "hand made" curtains, blinds, upholstery and soft furnishings. These gorgeous soft fur cushions and throws will certainly keep you warm this winter Choose from a selection of 12 different colours, available in stock and to order at our showroom MANUEL CANOVAS 6 Castle Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, KentTN11XJ. Tel: 01892 532003 Email: sarah@skinnersoftunbridgewells.co.uk www.skinnersoftunbridgewells.co.uk 164

ZOFFA~Y

Sl ml

MULBERRY

LIB€RTY

Cole&Son·

DECEMBER 2015

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POTTS LTD

KITCHENS , BATHROOMS & INTERIORS

SUPERIOR SURROUNDINGS

Designer: Ada Jludson@Potts.ltd.uk

Kiln Barn Road , East Malling , Maidstone , Kent , ME19 680 Untitled-9 1

01732 848444

www.potts.ltd.uk 25/11/2015 14:49

INTERIORS

COME DINE WITH ME Our dining dreams are getting grander, and a ‘proper’ dining room is increasingly featuring on home wishlists, as we rediscover an appetite for lingering over meals and savouring the opportunity to connect and socialise with loved ones. Almost 60% of us prefer a dining area to be a separate room, according to a survey by Anglian Home Improvements, and hankering for more formality appears to be in tune with a general change in attitude to mealtimes. TV dinners on the couch are falling out of favour, recent research by Waitrose revealed (apparently about a third of people are cutting back on that habit), while 50% of parents are making a ‘conscious effort’ to gather the family together for at least one meal a week. “Separate dining rooms fell out of favour at the turn of the 1990s, with hugely popular TV renovation shows such as Changing Rooms focusing on open-plan multi-functional rooms, but as with all trends, it looks as though the modern British household could be set for a separate dining room revival,” says Julie Yarwood, interior designer at Manchester-based furniture store Housing Units. “With increasingly busy lifestyles, the dining experience can be a welcome break from everyday stress and a chance to reconnect with family members and friends. Not only this, a separate room allows us to temporarily remove ourselves from the post-meal

BY GABRIELLE FAGAN

clean-up, which often looms over diners in open-plan kitchen and dining areas.” Post-recession Britain has also become more budget-conscious, she believes, and as a result, the ‘big night in’ trend is stronger than ever. “It’s inspired a dinner party revival and those often work best in a separate dining room environment,” she

says. “We all wish to make more of dining, and a beautifully furnished space where we can fully enjoy the moment, is becoming an essential.” If your dining area’s looking a bit dull, or your dining room is rarely used, it’s time to revamp the space. No matter what’s on the menu, this should be a space to suit every occasion...

DOWNTON DINING

166

Separate dining rooms are spaces where you can truly play with decor and conjure stately home grandeur (butler optional). “We’re noticing an enormous change in the approach to dining areas,” says Mark Kelly, marketing manager at Furniture123, which recently found that 69% of people now regard the dining room as their favourite place in the home, while 89% spent more on furnishing it than on any other room. “This is no longer a room used only for special occasions,” Mark says. “It’s the main gathering point for the family and 2 where people lavish a lot of care and attention getting the decor and furnishing right. They want dressers, a console table, wine racks, decorative lighting and accessories such as mirrors. It’s all about creating a stylish sanctuary which combines a cosseting, comfortable atmosphere – essential so you can enjoy a meal – with practicality and good storage.” TIP: Round tables generally suit smaller groups better, allowing for intimate gatherings. Avoid large vases and flower arrangements or tall ornaments in the middle of a table, as they can form a barrier and discourage interaction. GOOD BUY: Padstow extending

round dining table (seats four to six), £599, Marks & Spencer. (1) DÉCOR MENU: French-style painted furniture is the right ingredient for an elegant sophisticated setting. Sweetpea & Willow’s Manon dining table, £850, and Yasmina dining chairs, reduced to £112.50 each from £225, could be perfect. (2) Alternatively, a French-style Anjou extending table (seats eight), £645, would be well complemented by a pair of Orsay French chairs, £360, Within Home. (3)

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INTERIORS

MODERN TASTE 8

The essential ingredients for this recipe are streamlined tables and chairs and a pared-back approach, so clutter is minimal or hidden in extensive storage. “Dining spaces are one of the hardest-working zones in the home and have huge potential when it comes to style. You can opt for sophisticated glamour; think generous tables and overhanging pendant lighting in a combined kitchen/dining area which will make the eating area a stunning focal point,” says Kate Tansley, creative director at Multiyork.

“Bench seating has come a long way from the schoolroom. It can take up less space than individual chairs and looks more modern. Just add cushions for essential comfort!” TIP: Lighting is key – ensure it’s sufficiently bright for everyday meals (or tasks like homework) but have dimmers to create atmosphere when required. Over-thetable pendant lights are brilliant for creating an instant wow factor, but don’t overlook floor lamps and table lamps around the room too, to create a more intimate feel. GOOD BUY: Alphabeta pendant light, from £223.53, Hem.com (4) DÉCOR MENU: Out There Interiors has a highly desirable selection of tables, including a metal and recycled elm dining table (seats eight), £725 (5) If you’re a Skandi fan, Hem (the word means ‘home’ in Swedish) is a new kid on the online furniture block offering high design at affordable prices. One of its beauties, a Bento six-seat dinner table, is reduced to £587 from £734.56, made by

From Us with Love, and a touchwood chair, £146.32 (6) Marble’s having a moment, and Housing Unit’s Catalina white marble dining collection includes a fashionconscious table and six chairs, reduced to £1,699 from £2,693 (7) Marks & Spencer’s glass-topped Colby rectangular dining table, £499, wouldn’t dominate a space, (8) while Multiyork’s Copenhagen extending dining table and Ely chairs, reduced to £1,709 from £2,323, make a handsome set. (9)

RUSTIC RETREAT Natural materials, especially wood, are ultrafashionable and suit an informal setting. “While we haven’t seen a huge push for one specific style, one thing which has become clear is that large dining spaces are back and here to stay. Eight to 12-seater tables are proving extremely popular, as people focus on creating a central hub for family and friends to gather,” says Jenny Hurren, founder of Out There Interiors. “This needs to be a multi-functional space – for food, for games, for homework, for catching up over coffee and cake. There really is no one formula for

creating the perfect dining space; it has to work for you and your individual home, and you should feel free to experiment. “Bold, rich colours can make a separate dining area or room feel snug and cosy, while open-plan areas can look stunning decorated in light, neutral tones, which blur the boundary between the indoors and outdoors, if they look out onto a garden.” TIP: Establish which size table you need – it’s the main focus of the room and must be large enough to seat the required number of people, but too large and it will swamp a room. If space is an issue, opt for an extendable option for versatility. GOOD BUY: Burchill rectangular extending dining table, £599, Marks & Spencer. (10) DÉCOR MENU: A plank dining table, in sandstone waxed finish and made from reclaimed pine, £525, is one of the stars at The Orchard, and would be complemented by its button back upholstered chairs, £182 each. (11) For farmhouse style, you couldn’t do better than a parquet extending dining table, reduced to £549 from £699, with matching parquet chairs, currently reduced to £119 from £149, and a parquet bench, down to £159 from £219, Furniture Village. (12) Neptune’s just the destination for this look too, and a honey-coloured rustic oak Arundel dining table, from £1,350, and oak bench, from £550, is a stunner. (13)

12 13

DECEMBER

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,a U •

F,·rHetasRegiesteredlnstallers

4Stoves ~ Fire Places

•

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ch1mneys •

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DECEMBER 2015

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M\ITY

Design Service from Amity Call now to find out about our exclusive design service. Our team has over 40 years experience in creating stunning interiors, from traditional to modern contemporary Our hands on approach means we are with you every step of the way, from initial consultation through to finished product. To book an appointment call Carly Jackson (BA Hons) on 01689878418, or visit:

www.amity.uk.com Untitled-4 2

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THE

LOVE

AFFAIR

COLLECTION

We a r e ce l e bra tin g 90 yea r s o f exce ll e n ce w ith thi s exc lu s ive co ll ec ti o n co nt a inin g s i x o f o ur m os t c urre nt a nd i co ni c d es ig n s . Th e 90 - yea r s p ec ia l e diti o n s co m e w ith a R ose go ld e n a luminium a nd wa lnut woo d. Th e m aj es ti c 85" ve r s io n o f B eoV is io n Ava nt d e li ve r s ex qui sit e im age r y a nd so und w ith fl ex ibilit y a nd free d o m o f m ove m e nt.

BANG & OLUFSEN Bang & Olufsen of Bexleyheath

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INTERIORS

GETTING PERSONAL

Christmas crate tree, £198 www.gettingpersonal.co.uk

EMMA BRIDGEWATER

Christmas joy robin cake plate, £49.95 www.daisypark.co.uk

ARTISANI

Metal winter branch in antique silver, £106 www.artisani.com

THE MAGIC TOUCH Add a touch of sparkle to your home with these festive additions

LUXDECO

Set of four encrusted baubles, £35 www.LuxDeco.com

CLARE LOVES

Wooden Christmas wreath, £37.50 www.clareloves.co.uk

DL&CO

L’Homme collection candle - Scotch whisky, £37.50 www.amara.com

CLOUDBERRY LIVING

String candle holder by Ferm Living, £92 www.cloudberryliving.co.uk

BETSY BENN DESIGNS

Vinyl record Christmas wreath, £27 www.betsybenn.co.uk DECEMBER 2015

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STYLE HOUSE SHUTT :: RS We fit the highest quality, bespoke, hand-crafted plantation shutters. Offering you ultimate style, choice and quality in your home. Contact us for your free survey.

t 01732521287 m 07717133736 e hello@stylehouseshutters.co.uk www.stylehouseshutters.co.uk

Full interior and exterior coatings Resin coatings to garage floors All aspects of wallpapering from wide vinyl to hand-printed silk Hand finished specialist effec Spray painting

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west one

at rooms t LON DON

A N N U A L S A L E S T A R T S 1 4th D E C E M B E R

79 Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2UY t.01892 548 111 +44 (0) 333 011 3333

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At Home Design Service available

westonebathrooms.com

23/11/2015 15:45

ADVERTORIAL

SOCIAL

ART AND RETAIL THERAPY Fans of Lester Magoogan, globally acclaimed artist from Hastings, gathered at Respire Living Home Interiors in the Old Town, Hastings, for a special meet the artist and shopping event. Lester is an artist with a unique perspective, famed for his humorous work, and is currently exhibiting his Limited Edition collection at Respire Living, having previously been in the Oxo and Tate Modern Galleries. Guests had the opportunity to meet Lester, view his work and enter a free prize draw to win a one-off piece, all whilst enjoying a drink and nibbles in the beautiful surroundings. There was even a chance to do a spot of late night shopping at Respire; a perfect blend of talent and retail therapy. “We’re delighted to be showcasing such a local talent in our space,” say Julie and Rich, the owners of Respire Living.

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DECEMBER 2015

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INTERIORS

A MERRY MANOR Discover how the team at Ightham Mote prepares for the festive season

ynne Antwis, House Steward at Ightham Mote has worked at the property for 17 years. Here, she talks to us about the work that goes into giving the manor house a bit of added sparkle each Christmas.

Christmas, less elaborately but authentically. The library, once used by the last owner Mr Robinson, who was American, is decorated as an American 1950s house, very similar to how a British home was decorated but more lavish. It creates a definite air of nostalgia for the visitors.

How have you been preparing for Christmas at Ightham? Preparation for Christmas usually starts as early as June with the planning for the events and dressing the house for Christmas. Rehearsals are scheduled for our Shades of Ightham Mote plays – where characters from Ightham Mote’s past are brought back to life by our thespian volunteers. We check all the decorations are still in good condition and then plan the schedule for putting them up, ensuring we keep our diaries clear for this, pretty early too.

which means closing rooms down to give them a rest – especially from the effects of the light.

What tasks will you be undertaking around the house this month? Day by day a room is readied for the festivities from the past and revealed to visitors. This is whilst our core conservation work must continue so at the same time we shall also be ‘putting the house to bed’ upstairs,

What is Christmas like at Ightham? Christmas here is calm, peaceful and quite beautiful. The Great Hall is decorated in the Victorian tradition ready for a grand Christmas meal, with the table set, and soft music playing in the background. The servants’ rooms are also dressed for

How long does it take to decorate the house and get it all ready for the festive season? It takes a full week to get it all done as we only have the early morning to do it in. How many people work in the team? Is this more at Christmas? In the housekeeping team there are five staff and at least ten very good volunteers. We usually call on extra staff help to put our 22ft tree up in the Great Hall and then dress it. What is your approach to the house, in terms of both preserving its heritage and moving forward? It is a constant balancing act to both conserve what we have and to present it for the enjoyment and education of all, but with thoughtful arrangement of the rooms this is we hope achieved. What is the biggest challenge at Ightham? The biggest challenge is the size of some of the rooms: it is a small domestic house that can sometimes struggle with the volume of people going through on busy days. What’s your favourite area or element of the house? My favourite elements are some of the very old hand-wrought wooden beams and door frames. The workers’ tool marks are quite visible and very tactile. Is there anything in particular that

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INTERIORS

own quality and it’s impossible to have a favourite room. When the sun is shining and shimmering on the library ceiling, then that’s my favourite, when it is gloomy and atmospheric then the cosy Housekeeper’s room is my favourite, but then how could I ever pass through the New Chapel without saying it’s my favourite! Anyone who visits will surely understand my dilemma! Ightham Mote is open daily for Christmas until January 5, including Boxing Day (closed Christmas Eve and Christmas day) from 10am to 3.30pm. www.nationaltrust.org/ightham-mote visitors should look out for this Christmas? The DVD in the Squire’s Room has some beautiful photographs of Ightham Mote in the snow, which visitors rarely get to see. What is the most commonly asked question from visitors? “How does one pronounce Ightham”? What are your day to day tasks? The conservation cleaning of each room and its contents, and opening up the house for the visitors each morning. It may sound simple but believe me it is more complicated and more in depth than most people can imagine. Are there any original features, or anything in keeping with the heritage? Plenty! Ightham Mote is in itself an original feature. A beautifully conserved medieval manor house, with so many original features, too numerous to mention. We base how we present the house at Christmas on what we have learned from the buildings’ owners and its history. From medieval times The Hall was always the place for the great feasts – and we picked the Victorian era as we know the family then – the Colyer-Fergussons, used to entertain their guests in the Hall. Do you have a favourite room? That’s like asking if I have a favourite child! Each room has its

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

SECURITY

HOME FRONT

e might be in the midst of winter, but as you light the

inside and out. So whether you’re looking for a property with

fire or de-ice your car, the good news is that spring is

a pool so you can enjoy summer garden parties or somewhere

just around the corner. And, what could be better to see

where you can appreciate the views for miles around while you

in the new season than a new home? This month we have an

watch the seasons change, these beautiful Wealden properties

abundance of beautiful properties that are both stunning from the

offer something for everyone.

CROWBOROUGH

HEATHFIELD

MARDEN

BIDDENDEN

SALEHURST

Impressive modernised

Rustic family home

Grade II listed

Charming period

Family house with

property with magnificent

with character

farmhouse in

conversion with

immaculately

gardens

features

countryside setting

equestrian potential

presented gardens

Price: £850,000

Price: £1,190,000

Price: £950,000

Price: £1,295,000

Price: £1,695,000

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SECURITY

A STARRY VIEW A modernised period property in Crowborough PRESENTED IN AN immaculate condition and down a highly desirable private drive, Observatory West is a

oak panelling above the mantelpiece. Moving to the first floor are three double bedrooms,

beautiful period property full of character. It has been

including two with en suite. The back bedroom also features

extensively modernised by the present owners and now

triple sash windows, with a bathroom including a built in

offers a superb contemporary family home, whilst retaining

shower and a freestanding, roll-topped bath.

many of the features expected in this style of house, such as high ceilings, cornicing and large sliding sash windows. Upon entering the property, you are greeted by a long

The second floor features a further double bedroom and the grand master suite. This incredibly large and light room includes an original fireplace, and views over the gardens.

entrance hall that leads on to a bright and modern kitchen,

An en suite bathroom includes a freestanding bath, with his

finished with white surfaces and inbuilt units. There is also

and hers sinks included. The modern updates added by the

dining space, with French doors that lead onto the large

current owner act as a perfect juxtaposition to the beautiful

back garden.

old style of the house.

An impressive drawing room sits at the back of the

The magnificent south facing garden is just under half an

property, looking out over the surrounding views, with triple

acre, and has a large terrace ideal for entertaining. One

sash windows and wood panelling. Taking centre stage is a

particular feature is the original fruit wall with pear, fig and

stunning original fireplace, finished with engraved ornate

apple trees, as well as its own large grape vine.

For more details contact: Alexandre Boyes â&#x20AC;˘ 01892 525 522 â&#x20AC;˘ www.alexandre-boyes.co.uk 188

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

PROPERTY: Observatory West LOCATION: Church Road, Crowborough GUIDE PRICE: ÂŁ850,000 BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 3 plus WC EXTRAS: Utility room, off road parking, ample eaves storage BEST BITS: This property has been expertly modernised, maintaining all the charm of the original building with a light and practical living space.

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rITl

lL[J WOOD & PILCHER

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

CROWBOROUGH

23 High Street, Tunbridge Wells Kent TN11UT Sales 01892 511211 tunbridgewells@woodandpilcher.co.uk Letting & Management 01892 528888 lettings@woodandpilcher.com

The Cross, Crowborough East Sussex TN6 1AL Sales 01892 665666 crowbcrough@woodandpilcher.co.uk Letting & Management 01892 664666 lettings@woodandpilcher.com

SOUTHBOROUGH

HEATH FIELD

TONBRIDGE

124 London Road, Southborough Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 OPL Tel: 01892 511311 southborough@woodandpilcher.co.uk

27 High Street, Heathfield East Sussex TN21 8JR Tel: 01435 862211 heathfield@woodandpilcher.co.uk

38 High Street, Tonbridge, Kent TN91EJ Tel: 01732 351135 tonbridge@woodandpilcher.co.uk

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

RUSTIC OAK Charming and spacious family home in Heathfield OAKHURST, constructed on the former Oak

style cooker within the chimney breast. An

Hall Estate, is a beautiful, rustic property with

additional utility room, with matching fitted

ample space and in a truly picturesque

units, offers further storage cupboards, a utility

location. This property boasts many benefits

sink and space for a laundry appliance.

of a cottage style house, such as wooden

Most impressively, the ground floor features

beams and character features, but with the

a stunning oak-framed garden room with

added benefit of modern fittings, including

vaulted ceiling, limestone flooring and

underfloor heating, and generous

expansive views over the gardens. Upstairs offers three double bedrooms plus

ceiling heights. The ground floor opens to a hallway and

with both a fitted bath and walk-in shower.

doors opening to the expansive gardens.

French doors open to a Juliet balcony,

To the west, a spacious lounge area boasts

further enhancing the views to the

quadruple aspect views of the surrounding

surrounding countryside. Additional external space offers a single

stove, while further French doors create a light

garage and studio, with connected power and

and airy space.

water, and a large store room above. A South-

The kitchen and breakfast room includes

LOCATION: Broad Oak, Heathfield GUIDE PRICE: £1,190,000

the master suite, which includes a bathroom

wooden arched dining room, with French

land, and stone fireplace with wood burning

PROPERTY: Oakhurst

facing flagstone terrace spans across the back

BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 2 plus WC EXTRAS: Downstairs study, beam features, lovingly-tended plot BEST BITS: An excellent rustic property

hand-painted units under granite worktops,

of the house, offering a wonderful vantage

and comes complete with Belfast sink, an

point and providing a lovely environment for

that combines cosy cottage living with

integrated dishwasher and space for a range-

outdoor living and entertaining.

a spacious modern home

For full details contact: Savills Tunbridge Wells • 01892 507 000 • www.savills.co.uk DECEMBER 2015

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

FAMILY FIRST Clean and modern family living in Tonbridge THIS DELIGHTFUL AND traditional

gardens. A useful utility room also

family home enjoys many features and is

offers space for laundry appliances and

set within a private drive that leads to

further storage.

PROPERTY: 87B Hadlow Road

Upstairs, the first floor landing leads to the

LOCATION: Tonbridge

entrance welcomes you into a light and airy

master bedroom with en suite shower room,

GUIDE PRICE: £635,000

hall with cloakroom and storage, and

finished with a modern and stylish feel. A

ceramic tiled flooring. Leading off is a

second double bedroom also offers an en

spacious sitting room with feature fireplace

suite, while three further bedrooms also

and views over the surrounding gardens.

occupy the top floor, one currently being

BATHROOMS: 3 plus WC

Heading through an archway takes you to

used as a study. The house is finished with a

EXTRAS: Walking distance to town

the stylish kitchen with inclusive breakfast

family bathroom, including inbuilt bath tub.

and station, attached single garage,

bar, which is comprehensively fitted with

Outside, there is a single garage and side

parking for up to three cars. The front

BEDROOMS: 5

modern features

white units, plenty of worktop space and

gate access to the rear. The garden offers

integrated appliances such as an oven,

seclusion and is fully enclosed, landscaped to

microwave and dishwasher. The room also

maximise the space and providing a generous

offers plenty of space for a dining table in

paved terrace area, making a perfect outdoor

home that offers plenty of living

front of French doors that open onto the

entertaining space.

space and versatile living

BEST BITS: A conventional family

For more details contact Barnes Kingsnorth • 01732 771 616 • www.bkestateagents.com DECEMBER 2015

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McAufey

Miffer Estate Agents

'Makina 'Moves"

rrer: 01s92 614111 (ettinBs@mcau(eymiffer.com Untitled-2 2

www.mcau(eymi((er.com

safes@mcau(eymi(fer.com 23/11/2015 16:55

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

COTTAGE WITH CHARACTER A cosy conversion with feature fireplaces and exposed beams in Marden TURKEY FARM IS a fine Grade II listed

hers wash basins, a bath and a shower, and a

country farmhouse benefiting from an

pretty feature fireplace.

attached barn, all set in around 2.5 acres and

A staircase leads to the second floor

surrounded by open countryside. The

conversion, which offers two further

property has an abundance of character and

bedrooms, both showcasing vaulted ceilings

charm with a wealth of exposed timbers and

and include wash basins. A further WC and

LOCATION: Marden, Kent

beams with two large inglenook fireplaces.

another bathroom, which is currently seeking

GUIDE PRICE: £950,000

The front door opens to an entrance hall,

further conversion, also occupy the top floor.

leading to the dining room, which has a front

The house leads on to the attached barn

aspect and an inglenook fireplace. An

space, which additionally offers three further

archway opens to the kitchen and breakfast

store rooms, with oak doors leading into

room, fitted with wooden units and

the courtyard.

integrated appliances including a built in

PROPERTY: Turkey Farm

BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 2 (one under construction) + WC

The grounds to the house are mainly laid to

oven. On the north side of the property is a

lawn and are screened by mature hedging,

EXTRAS: Exposed beams and wooden

sitting room with feature fireplace, and

with a rear terrace offering an excellent

drawing room with views over the

entertaining space. To the front is a duck

flooring throughout, additional ground

surrounding gardens.

pond with a decorative bridge, and even

The first floor includes three double

features its own flagpole. To the end of the

floor study and shower room BEST BITS: Expansive external buildings

bedrooms, one with inbuilt storage, and a

front lawn is a scattering of fruit trees with

perfect for car and bike storage, or for

family bathroom that benefits from his and

further available land opposite.

home studio space.

For full details contact Lambert & Foster • 01892 832 325 • www.lambertandfoster.co.uk DECEMBER 2015

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SECURITY

AMPLE ACREAGE Expansive residential farm in Biddenden

PROPERTY: Summerhill Oast Farm LOCATION: Biddenden

SITUATED TWO MILES south of the pretty

the property. A dual aspect sitting room

village of Biddenden and surrounded by 35

occupies the east side of the house, with a

acres of farmland, Summerhill Oast Farm is

light outlook and period features such as

BEDROOMS: 3 in main house, 4 in

a charming period conversion together with

exposed beams. Upstairs, a master bedroom

bungalow

excellent ancillary accommodation and

with inbuilt cupboards offers ample living

BATHROOMS: 2 in main (plus 2

various farm buildings with a hard standing

space, as do two further double bedrooms,

yard offering potential for equestrian facilities.

including en suite, and a further family

WC), 1 in bungalow

The surrounding fields are all down to grazing

bathroom.

and hedge or fence enclosed, several with

Westerley, the detached bungalow at Summerhill Oast Farm also offers expansive

water facilities connected. Inside the main property, a kitchen leads off

living space with three double bedrooms,

from the entrance, offering a breakfast bar

a further single bedroom, and family

and dining space, plus a dining room, with

bathroom fitted with both a bath and

views over the gardens. The downstairs offers

standalone shower. A sitting room extends

plenty of cupboards and storage space, as

the length of the property, with an additional

well as a WC and utility space at the back of

family room that opens out onto the gardens.

GUIDE PRICE: £1,295,000

EXTRAS: B1 planning consent, four bay concrete farm barn with workshop, ten further fields BEST BITS: 35 ACRES and ample outside storage offer expansive equestrian potential

For full details contact: Savills Cranbrook • 01580 720 161 • www.savills.co.uk 196

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

11stl EI

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

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NEVILL PARK, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

I GUIDE PRICE ÂŁ2.75 MILLION

Spacious family home in one of the finest positions in Tunbridge Wells, enjoying far reaching views over green belt protected land. It is set in 3.8 acres and yet within close proximity of the town 4 Reception Rooms. Study/Office. Wine Cellar. Kitchen/Breakfast Room. 6 Bedrooms. 4 Bathrooms (3 En Suite), Large Loft with potential. Colourful Gardens. Heated Outdoor Pool. Hard Tennis Court. Orchard . Field/ Paddock of 1.5 acres. Stable. Garaging for 3 Cars. About 3.8 Acres in all. EPC D APPLY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS OFFICE

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Battle 01424 775577

Haywards Heath 01444 453181

Pulborough 01798 872081

Tunbridge Wells 01892 512020

London Mayfair Office

battle@batchellermonkhouse corn

hh@batchellermonkhouse com

pulb@batchellermonkhouse corn

twells@batc hellermonkhouse corn

mayfa1r@batchellermonkhouse corn

23/11/2015 16:55

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

GARDEN PARTY Well-loved family property with plenty of scope in Tunbridge Wells THIS DETACHED FAMILY home has

surface space. A Neff double oven and

been thoughtfully extended and improved

provisions for a dishwasher and washing

by the current owners, over their many

machine are also provided.

years of ownership. Set back from the road

Moving through, there is a modern dining

PROPERTY: 21 Lake Road

with a wide driveway in the highly desired

space, finished with oak flooring that opens

Culverden area, there is ample off road

to a pretty glass conservatory and leads out

LOCATION: Tunbridge Wells

parking, with attached double garage. The

onto the rear decking. There is a downstairs

rear garden has been arranged to include a

shower room, finished in white with a

GUIDE PRICE: £845,000

wide area of decking, leading down

recessed shower cubicle, while a large

through lawn and to a large heated

further sitting room with double aspect

BEDROOMS: 4

swimming pool. A rockery, greenhouse

finishes the downstairs accommodation.

BATHROOMS: 2

and shed help turn the outside space into

Upstairs are four bedrooms, including the

the perfect entertaining space, for children

master room, fitted with a range of

and family members alike.

wooden furniture, including a five door

Entering the property, you are greeted by

modern conservatory

wardrobe and dressing table. The family

an entrance hall with short staircase to the

bathroom is finished with ceramic tiles,

ground floor rooms. The bright kitchen/

with a white and chrome suite, and

breakfast room features attractively fitted

Aqualisa shower mixer.

Shaker-style units, with generous work

EXTRAS: Inbuilt storage,

BEST BITS: The landscaped and upgraded gardens offer entertaining space for all – and a swimming pool!

For full details contact Bracketts • 01892 533 733 • www.bracketts.co.uk DECEMBER 2015

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SECURITY

PERIOD ELEGANCE Stunning property overlooking the town’s common in Tunbridge Wells QUITE SIMPLY ONE

from four spacious

of the finest properties in

reception rooms and an

the centre of Tunbridge

outstanding kitchen/

Wells, Summerhill House

breakfast room. The master suite

is an outstanding

● Spectacular detached period home

● Superb master suite with bedroom,

● Convenient town centre location

dressing room and bathroom ● Balcony ● Five further bedrooms

detached period family

features a dressing room,

home with generous

en-suite bathroom and

opposite Tunbridge Wells common

and adaptable

bedroom overlooking

● Extensively refurbished

accommodation. The

Tunbridge Wells

● Entrance hall

present owners have

Common. There are five

● Cloakroom

extensively renovated

further bedrooms, five

the house, creating

further bathrooms and

● Four ground floor reception rooms

a fabulous modern

a study, as well as a

property while

cinema room with games

retaining many of the

room and laundry room.

The accommodation, on four floors, benefits

breakfast room

● Annex: kitchen, sitting room, cloakroom, two bedrooms, bathroom, shower room

● Pantry

● Sweeping gravel drive with

● Lower ground floor: cinema room,

off-road parking

a separate two-bedroom

games room, shower room and

● Walled rear garden

annex.

laundry

PRICE: £2,700,000

The house also has

original features.

● Stunning kitchen and

● Five further bath/shower rooms

For full details contact Alexandre Boyes • 01892 525 522 • www.alexandre-boyes.co.uk 200

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STYLE, SPACE AND CONVENIENCE. KNIGHTS WOOD HAS IT ALL ...

Knights Wood, Royal Tunbridge Wells offers all of the convenience of an easy commute, with green, open spaces, local shops and a new school on your doorstep.

STYLISH FOUR BEDROOM HOMES PRICES FROM ÂŁ570,000 Visit the Marketing and Show Suite to see first hand the quality, specification and stunning location of these award winning family homes.

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01892 800 580 knightswood.co.uk Knights Wood, Tunbridge Wells

Knights Wood. The perfect place to put down roots.

dandara new homes Untitled-2 2

TN2 3UW

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23/11/2015 16:57

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

LAKE AND LANDSCAPE Expertly modernised countryside property in Salehurst BOARSNEY, SITUATED IN Salehurst,

standard, with white wooden units,

Robertsbridge, is a Grade II Listed family

granite work surfaces and includes a four

house with wonderful views over the

oven Aga.

surrounding countryside. Set in

Upstairs features the master suite,

PROPERTY: Boarsney

immaculately presented gardens, the

including an expansive bathroom with

grounds are a particular feature and

fitted bath tub, as well as three further

LOCATION: Salehurst, East Sussex

comprise lawned areas with a multitude

double bedrooms, one featuring an en

GUIDE PRICE: £1,695,000

of mature trees as well as a paved

suite, and one with large additional storage

terrace, croquet lawn, and large lake with

space. The second floor has also been

two islands.

converted by the current owners to create

BEDROOMS: 6

further accommodation, with two further

BATHROOMS: 5, including 4 en suite

property, which is of timber frame

en suite bedrooms both benefiting from

construction, dating back to the late 16th

exposed beams and beautiful sloped roofs.

EXTRAS: Double garage and wine store,

A large reception hall greets you into the

century. Leading off is a rustic dining

An additional external barn has been

glass conservatory, three acres of land

room, with exposed beams and original

converted for use, currently functioning

wooden flooring. Three further reception

as a gym room with stone floor. Also in

rooms, including period drawing room,

the grounds is an impressive swimming

with feature fireplace, and a modern fitted

pool with paved surround, and two old

library. The kitchen and breakfast room

oak doors leading onto a walled

the modernisation with the original

has been modernised to an impeccable

vegetable garden.

features

BEST BITS: A stunning property both inside and out that perfectly juxtaposes

For full details contact Knight Frank • 01892 515 035 • www.knightfrank.co.uk DECEMBER 2015

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LANDLORDS WANTED inTunbridgeWells

Are you a Landlord looking to rent out your property? Or perhaps you already have tenants but want a professional and pro-active Letting Agent to look after the management of the tenancy? Andrews Letting 8: Management of Tunbridge Wei Is have an in-house property management team to look after your interests as a Landlord including: Annual Rent reviews • Rent Collection services • Loyalty discounts for multi-listing landlords Rent 8: Legal protection services • Access to a FREE Legal help line

For a FREE Rental Valuation or further details contact the Lettings Team on 01892 525551 or Tunbridgewells.lets@andrewsonline.co.uk

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ANDREWS

Halls Hole Road, TN2

Guide £750,000

Mount Ephraim, TN4

Guide £350,000-£365,000

Semi-rural four bedroom character cottage with wonderful plot set on the prestigious Dunorlan Farm, Tunbridge Wells. Entrance hall, living room, extended family/dining area, bespoke kitchen with courtyard, utility room, cloakroom. Upstairs there are 4 bedrooms, an en-suite and a family bathroom.

Spectacular views over Tunbridge Wells - this two double bedroom apartment with fitted kitchen, bathroom and utility room has to be seen to be believed! It really does have the 'wow' factor, with features including a cast iron fireplace, sash windows, wooden shutters, high ceilings, parking at the front, a garage and no chain.

Energy Efficiency Rating : D

St. James Park TN1

Guide £425,000-£450,000

Well presented Victorian semi-detached home in a popular road in the St. James area and set in an elevated position from the main road, with steps leading to the front door. Accommodation comprises entrance hall, living room, dining room, kitchen, lean-to with access to the garden, and upstairs there are three bedrooms and a family bathroom . Energy Efficiency Rating : E

Prospect Road, TN4

Guide £600,000-£650,000

Stunning double fronted detached period villa with period features, including fireplaces sash windows, wood floors and a galleried landing, 4 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms and a driveway for 2 cars. With a stylishly fitted 'Howden' kitchen, utility room, downstairs cloakroom and an enclosed 40'0 x 35'0 established garden, this could be your ultimate family home! Energy Efficiency Rating : D

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An attractive Victorian family house with ancillary accommodation Entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, study, orangery, kitchen I breakfast room , utility room, larder, boot room, cloakroom, cellar. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, 4 further bedrooms, family bathroom. Detached cottage comprising: Kitchen I breakfast room, sitting room, shower room and bedroom. Gardens and grounds. Paddock. Swimming pool with terrace. Pool house. Vegetable garden. Greenhouse. Planning Permission to extend. EPC rating F. In all about 2.6 acres.

A unique and substantial modern country house Entrance hall, 3 reception rooms, study, kitchen I breakfast room, utility room. Master bedroom with dressing area, nursery I study and en suite bath I shower room, 6 further bedrooms with en suite facilities. Detached triple garage with large storage loft above. EPC rating D. In all about 5.6 acres.

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Stonegate A detached family house 5 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms, 2 bathrooms. Potential to use as two dwellings or one. EPC ratings D & F. In all about 0.21 of an acre.

An attractive, well located period property 4 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms , 2 bathrooms. EPC rating E. In all about 2 acres.

Goudhurst A well-arranged family house in a quiet location 5 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms, 3 bathrooms. EPC rating B. In all about 0.17 acre.

A substantial attached period oast with outstanding views 6 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, 3 bathrooms. EPC rating E. In all about 0.82 of an acre.

A substantial detached family house on the edge of this popular village Entrance hall, cloakroom, kitchen, breakfast room, utility room, drawing room, sitting room, conservatory. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, 3 further bedrooms (all with en suite bath I shower rooms). Detached triple garage. Detached studio with cloakroom. Gardens and grounds. EPC rating E. In all about 0.83 of an acre. Shared use of a field of about 2 acres.

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A substantial converted barn on the edge of a popular village Kitchen I dining room, utility room, cloakroom, drawing room, sitting room, family room, office, cloakroom. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, bedroom 2 with en suite bathroom, 3 further bedrooms, family bathroom. Detached triple garage (two open bays and one closed). Gardens and grounds. Paddock. EPC rating C. In all about 6.8 acres.

23/11/2015 16:58

we open doors for you ...

Barnes Kingsnorth

Live Life in Luxury Modernised period house perfect for a big family in Tonbridge Dating back in part to the 18th century, this

The master bedroom on the first floor is

• PROPERTY: Tailgate House • LOCATION: Had low Road, Tonbridge

unique, impressive family home, with a

accompanied by a dressing room and en suite

• GUIDE PRICE: £1,225,000

sympathetic extension and contemporary

bathroom. Five other bedrooms, one of which

• BEDROOMS: 6

improvements throughout, has retained its

has a further en suite shower room, and a family

character and stunning periodic features.

bathroom are settled over this floor as well.

• BATHROOMS: 3 (2 en suite) • EXTRAS: Detached double garage,

The front door opens into the entrance hall

Outside is a large double garage with a

leading to the drawing room; a magnificent space

completely independent apartment above. This

independent apartment, TV room with double

with an open fireplace and French style doors.

area is perfect for a teenage den or for visiting

aspect doors, period feature fireplace, cellar

There is also a study and sitting room with plenty

relatives. There is also space on the drive for

of space for relaxing and a separate TV room with

additional parking. You'll also find a fully

double aspect doors overlooking the garden. On

enclosed, screened garden with !awned area

this floor you'll also find the comprehensively

and trees and shrubs where you can create your

fitted kitchen, a shower cloakroom, a good-sized

own little haven.

• BEST BITS: Located just off Tonbridge High Street this home has a great location. The historic town offers the 13th century castle, shopping and recreational facilities and has a wealth of excellent schools - state, grammar and independent - just a short walk away.

utility and door to the cellar.

'B) Primel ocatior t hightmove,... 11,.v."...-...,.,...,..., ..i,,·,.

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Residential Sales & Lettings

Pembury: 01892 822880 e. pemburyrabkea.ca uk

Tonbridge: 01732 771616 e. tanbr,d 9erabkea.ca uk

Lettings: 01732 771616 e. lettings rabkea co uk

www.bkestateagents.com

23/11/2015 16:58

•. -

\, • -.,

Iii ~"~t··

Letting properties for over 100 years in the Weald of Kent COUNTRY

•

TOWN

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With our extensive experience in residential lettings it places us in the perfect position to find a suitable tenant quickly and effectively. We offer a full professional service for landlords and tenants helping you find the best package to suit your needs. Paddock Wood 01892 831 606

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Cranbrook 01580 712 234

Mayfield 01435 873 999

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

-St ARIA

(~ RICS

23/11/2015 15:55

DON'T WAIT UNTIL AFTER CHRISTMAS ... NOW IS THE TIME TO SELL. WE HAVE HAD A VERY SUCCESSFUL YEAR AND HAVE SOLD STCC PROPERTIES IN BOTH TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND THE SURROUNDING VILLAGES. Call us today to discuss your needs and how we can help with your sale and also just as importantly helping you to find your next home.

Newcomen Road, Tunbridge Wells Price Range £395,000-£435,000 Sought after St John's quarter a most attractive semi detached two bedroom Period property with off road parking. Accommodation - Lounge, Cloakroom, Kitchen/Diner, Conservatory & Bathroom. Gardens to front and rear.

. Local Knowledge . Home Finder Service- to help you find your dream home . Premium Marketing Services . Professional Photos and Floor plans . Right Move and Zoopla portals . Local Advertising

Cypress Grove, Tunbridge Wells Price Range £350,000-£360,000

St James Road, Tunbridge Wells Price Range £375,000- £400,000

A charming two bedroom link detached property situated just over a mile from the sought after Hawkenbury area. Accommodation includes Lounge, Kitchen/Diner and Bathroom. Outside- Off road parking, Gardens to front and Rear.

A well presented three bedroom semi detached Period property, offering character features. Accommodation includes entrance hall, cloakroom, Kitchen/Diner with patio doors on to the garden, Lounge, Bathroom, Ensuite.

High Brooms Road, Tunbridge Wells

Albany Hill, Tunbridge Wells Price Range £725,000 -£750,000

£350,0000

This beautifully presented three bedroom semi detached property is sure to impress. Cloakroom, Lounge, Dining Room, Modern Kitchen , Utility, Upstairs Bathroom. Garden with lawn.

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A detached house set in the desirable St James area being convenient for the local schools and town centre. The main residence offers 4 bedrooms, 2 receptions, kitchen , bathroom and en-suite.

23/11/2015 16:59

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Santa's coming to Millbrook!

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DECEMBER 2015

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GARDENS

Glorious Gardens This month Emma Davies who runs the Walled Nursery in Hawkhurst with her husband Monty is getting the little jobs done…

ecember is upon us and the

dormant and dropped their leaves, are

the new buds emerging below. Leave any

garden is still and quiet, but there’s

ready for cuttings to be taken. Snip a

tidy ups until the chances of frost have

a few little jobs you can still get

section of stem just below a bud, place the

passed in late spring. Fruit trees and grape

done. Plant up a container near your door

stems half buried into a pot filled with a

vines should be pruned in the winter, you

to give you some winter cheer, Cyclamen

loam based compost and leave outdoors.

want an open, balanced structure and to

(make sure you buy the hardy varieties not

With a bit of luck, the cutting will have

remove any diseased or damaged wood.

the indoor varieties), give you plenty of

rooted in time for the next spring.

Remember, large calculated cuts, not lots

colour. Add an evergreen centrepiece such

If you haven’t got around to planting

of little cuts all over! Stone fruits such as

as a Heuchera, Carex grasses or Ferns.

your bulbs, there is still just time. Get them

plums and cherries are best pruned in the

There are some gorgeous winter flowering

in quick! As with most garden rules, they

summer as winter pruning can make them

shrubs which are happy in containers,

can all be broken; the Tulips will still flower

susceptible to fungal infections.

Skimmias, Daphnes or Sarcococcas

at the same time, they always catch up.

If you’ve not already done so, get your

provide you with pretty flowers and

Another important job to do is check the

greenhouses ship shape and clean them

heavenly scents, you can snip a sprig and

supports for your climbing plants.

out. Remember, snow is heavy; if it builds

place in a vase in the house to keep the

Clematis are particularly susceptible to the

up, you need to brush it off, even more so

scent going in as well as out.

stems snapping in sharp winds, make sure

with a polytunnel as the frames can bend

you replace old string and keep secure

easily. Put away your hoses and insulate

before storms arrive.

any outdoor taps that need it. If it is snowy

If you fancy trying your hand at taking some hard wood cuttings, now is the time. Roses, trees or shrubs, once they’ve gone

Roses, Wisteria, trees and shrubs can

or frosty, avoid walking on your lawn as

now be pruned. If you are stuck as to

the grass can be damaged underneath.

where to start, the RHS has many good

Once you’ve done all of this, now you can

pruning guides available online. On the

sit down and relax, with a cup of tea and

whole, think about making large,

your seed catalogues and start dreaming

calculated cuts out of trees and shrubs

up what you’ll achieve in your garden next

rather than making lots of little cuts, or an

year. That’s the beauty of gardening,

all over trim. You want to keep the shape

there’s always something to do,

of your shrub as natural as possible, so

something new to try and the odd curve

vary the height of the cuts, and avoid

ball along the way to make you change

straight lines which will look very

direction. Dreaming up new ideas is the

contrived in a garden.

best bit!

Don’t be hasty to cut off spent Hydrangea heads – yes, I know they look tatty now,

Happy Gardening,

but they’re doing a great job of protecting

Emma

DECEMBER 2015 213

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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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GARDENS

GREEN FINGERED GIFTS Hannah Stephenson rounds up the perfect presents for outdoor lovers

s shops are already adorned with

Jo Malone

The Bath & Body Collection, £48 www.jomalone.co.uk

For the gardener who likes all-in-one gizmos,

from silver-plated vintage vegetable serving

baubles, tinsel, fairy lights and

a really useful MultiTool Garden from Wilkinson

spoons with a quirky engraving on the spoon.

mistletoe in preparation for the

Sword may be just the job. Made from black

£27.99, www.ijustloveit.co.uk Alternatively, create your own hamper of

Christmas rush, come in from the garden for

anodised aluminium and stainless steel, it

a few minutes to consider what your

boasts 14 different functions, including pruner,

gardening goodies, including unusual plant

gardening friends and family might like under

a knife, spanners, screwdriver, a saw, can

labels and seeds, decorative seed tins (I like

the tree this festive season.

opener, bottle opener and a file. Not only does

The Perfect for Pollinators Flower Collection

it have a solution for all outdoor situations, it is

and Award Winning Vegetable Collection

somewhere to put his secateurs and other

also small enough to fit in your pocket. £17.99,

comprising 10 packets of Johnsons seeds in a

small tools while he’s working should check out

www.wilkinsonsword-tools.co.uk

high quality reusable tin, £14.99, www.

So, what’s new? The gardener who needs

Burgon & Ball’s new Poc-kit utility belt, a

johnsons-seeds.com), colourful gardening

comfortable belt with waterproof neoprene

twine and pretty notebooks. Add some

pockets, which will house small tools such as a

pampering items and you’re on to a

pocket knife and plant labels, and has its own

winner for her. If your pal likes to languish in a hot bath at

twine dispensing eyelet. Available in a range of

the end of a long day’s gardening, the ultimate

colours, £14.95, www.burgonandball.com

in luxury is Jo Malone and this year’s

Those who want to house larger tools, such as forks and trowels, may prefer a full-size gardening

Christmas range is wrapped in mistletoe

apron. Bag a bargain with the Esschert Design

green. The Bath & Body Collection, of Orange

short textile Garden Apron, which is full of pockets

Blossom Body Creme, Blackberry & Bay Bath

and pouches for your tools. Currently priced at

Soap and Lime, Basil & Mandarin Shower Oil

£7.20, www.amazon.co.uk

will keep the scent of the garden wafting long

Esschert Design

short textile Garden Apron, £7.20 www. amazon. co.uk

MultiTool Garden

Wilkinson Sword, £17.99 www.wilkinsonsword-tools.co.uk

after the sun has gone down. £48, for stockists visit www.jomalone.co.uk Providing a good Christmas for gardeners could prove an easier job than you thought.

There are so many bird boxes on the market, but if you want a stylish version for your loved one, the Posh Bird Box is beautifully handcrafted with eye catching scalloped edges. Handmade from high-quality redwood timber, the cedar shingle roofs are removable and easy to clean. The boxes are available in a range of colours - standard colours £35, or bespoke colours for £50 inc p&p, www.theposhshedcompany.co.uk Personalised items often go down well with gardeners, from flora and fauna calendars to aprons, shed signs and mugs. Personalised wooden boxes to house gardening bits and pieces are available (from £24.99) from www.gettingpersonal.com, while Christmas dinner and home-grown veg could be served

Perfect for Pollinators

Flower and Award Vegetable Collection, £14.99 www.johnsons-seeds.com

DECEMBER 2015

SO TW_DEC15_Gardens_Products.indd 3

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23/11/2015 13:06

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Traditional or contemporary, large or small, the designers at Gardenproud can help you create a garden you ' ll be proud of. Our project managers will take you through design, approvals, hard landscaping and planting. Gardenproud was established in 2007 and is based near Tunbridge Wells. We look after over 100 properties throughout Kent and East Sussex. IF YOU ARE PLANNING A NEW GARDEN FOR 2016 THEN CONTACT TIM SYKES ON 07725 173820, OR .JUST GOOGLE GARDENPROUD

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DECEMBER 2015

p216_SO TW_DECEMBER15_Advert.indd 2

25/11/2015 14:09

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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PROJECTS

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

web: sjd-projects.com â&#x20AC;˘ email: steve@sjd-projects.com

23/11/2015 17:00

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