So Sevenoaks July 2015

SO SEVEN OAKS

VICTORIA BECKHAM

MEET THE UK’S TOP ENTREPRENEUR

boardroom

battles

THE BEST AND WORST BUSINESS DECISIONS

DORSET ARMS Winnie the Pooh helps boost their business P ROBAB LY TH E B EST LO CAL M AGAZIN E IN THE WO R LD

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tripping up on the internet PLEA TO THINK BEFORE YOU GRUMBLE ONLINE

CHERRY ON TOP SEVENOAKS BAKER’S RISE FROM FASHION TO FONDANT FANCIES

Is this US icon really worth the money?

pages of amazing homes to buy and let

- The Ford Mustang -

the beauty of biennials TIME TO START SOWING

BREAK A LEG CAUTIONARY TALES FOR THOSE TREADING THE BOARDS

suitcase style GRAB THESE BEACH HOLIDAY FASHION FINDS

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF SUMMER IN AND AROUND ISSUE 38 - JULY 201 5

SEVENOAKS

JULY 2015 £1.50 WWW.SOMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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In the lead role: John Travolta, movie legend and aviation aficionado. Guest star: the legendary North American X-15 that smashed all speed and altitude records and opened the gateway to space. Production: Breitling, the privileged partner of aviation thanks to its reliable, accurate and innovative instruments – such as the famous Chronomat, the ultimate chronograph. Welcome to a world of legends, feats and performance.

210 Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 2SS Tel: 01892 618 618

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WELCOME TO MY WORLD

CHRONOMAT 44

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Designers and makers of handmade kitchens

The difference is in the detail

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

www.rencraft.co.uk

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

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DESIGNEA

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KITCHEN& BATHROOM

AWARDS

2013

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@ WILDER._NESSE HOUSE SEVENOAKS

The row of towering chestnut trees on the Wildernesse estate was planted in 1509 to celebrate Henry VIII's marriage to Catherine of Aragon.

Also known as a Spanish chestnut, these trees were specifically chosen for the wedding day of the king and the Spanish princess.

Be part of the next chapter

PegasusLife Retirement living, but not as you know it

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Coming soon to the heart of this historic estate in Sevenoaks: a collection of apartments in the carefully restored listed building, together with a series of contemporary mews houses within the estate grounds.

W I LDERNESS EH OU SE.CO.UK

01732 510164

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CONTENTS

SO

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

66

106

“First time around I felt famous, but now I feel successful.”

Why tourists are going wild for the paradise of Mauritius

THE TRAVEL

THE CELEBRITY

190 THE FOOD

PHIL STAFFORD / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

How Winnie the Pooh helps this local eatery

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141

So the iconic Ford Mustang is finally here – would you buy one?

Wealden oast with pool and three lakes is yours for £1.5million

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STRICTLY SEVENOAKS...

Grab these trendy beach finds

News – why Tonbridge residents are too flashy

THE MOTOR

THE HOMES

114 THE GARDENS

Follow in the gentle footsteps of Sir Winston Churchill

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THE FEATURE The best and worst decisions in business history

THE FASHION

Letters – parking causes worries in Westerham Sevenoaks baker creates a fashion for fancies Calendar – catch festival fever at Hever Castle Beautiful border patrol at Penshurst Place Tree celebration at Riverhill Gardens J U LY 2 0 1 5

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SO

M A G A Z I N E

C O N TA C T S

16 Lonsdale Gardens Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU Tel: 01892 779 650 www.somagazine.co.uk Editor Richard Moore rmoore@onemediauk.co.uk Deputy Editor Charlie Bond cbond@onemediauk.co.uk Head of Design Rowena Cremer-Price rcremer-price@onemediauk.co.uk Publishing Design Manager Xela Ruy xruy@onemediauk.co.uk Junior Designer Ameila Giddings agiddings@onemediauk.co.uk Production Co-ordinators Lauren Howe lhowe2@onemediauk.co.uk Becky Wells bwells@onemediauk.co.uk Writer Frederick Latty flatty@onemediauk.co.uk Commercial & Digital Marketing Manager Laura Plane lplane@onemediauk.co.uk Head of Sales Joe De Kwant Stoner jstoner@onemediauk.co.uk COMMERCIAL TEAM Team Leader Gemma Hak ghak@onemediauk.co.uk Team Leader Patsy Kelly pkelly@onemediauk.co.uk Jake Short shortj@onemediauk.co.uk Clara Higgs-Prosser chprosser@onemediauk.co.uk Laura Welstead lwelstead@onemediauk.co.uk Robin Singer rsinger@markerstudy.com Distribution Co-ordinator Harry Lamb Contributors Jane Connolly • Valerie Thacker • Catherine de Crèvecoeur Daniel Gee • Craig Matthews • David Bartholomew Publishing Director Nick Moore nmoore@onemediauk.co.uk

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

one media Published by:

and creative uk ltd

SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE ONLINE All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial. The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit.

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ADVERTORIAL

DEPTH OF EXPERIENCE

Looking for legal advice from a firm that puts its clients first?

You’re in luck, as Warners Solicitors in Sevenoaks goes that extra mile to make your life as stress-free as possible. We catch up with Solicitor Ruth Pannell to hear about what makes the business unique

WHICH AREAS OF LAW DO YOU SPECIALISE IN? I am a private client lawyer specialising in wills, trusts, tax planning, probate and estate administration, powers of attorney and court of protection work. I also have an interest in charity law, having spent the early part of my career at a specialist London charity firm. I am a member of STEP (the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners) and the Charity Law Association.

WHAT GIVES YOU THE MOST SATISFACTION AT WORK? A lot of the time, individuals and families come to me when something has gone wrong; when a relative has died or become unable to manage their affairs, or when life generally seems to be getting unmanageable. My aim is to turn these difficult situations around so that the client can take back some control. I believe that a sense of control is closely linked to wellbeing and the best case scenario for me is when my input has helped to make my clients’ lives easier and happier.

WHY DID YOU JOIN WARNERS? I wanted to work at a firm that has a real depth of experience and also cares about its clients above anything else. Warners ticks both boxes! I am also part of an extremely friendly, knowledgeable

and supportive team and I always feel valued.

TELL US A LITTLE KNOWN SECRET ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS THAT CUSTOMERS WOULDN’T KNOW Warners is one of the first law firms to be accredited with the Law Society Wills and Inheritance Quality Scheme mark. We have worked really hard as a team to achieve this accreditation, which reflects our commitment to giving clients the best possible service, as well as first-class advice.

HOW ABOUT THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN SEVENOAKS? The shopping! Our offices are also opposite the bagel shop, which I probably go to more often than I should (but they are delicious!). We also have the Stag theatre on our doorstep with a lovely coffee shop and I enjoyed taking my family to see the pantomime there this year, which was great fun!

For more information, please contact Ruth by calling 01732 747 900, emailing r.pannell@warners-solicitors.co.uk or visiting www.warners-solicitors.co.uk Warners Solicitors 16 South Park, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1AN

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MODEL SHOWN KL38 - £27,971 * KRIEDER SHOWROOM - 3 Chapel Place, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN11YQ - 01892 619721 - info@krieder.co m - www.krieder.com •price shown includes delivery, cabinet furniture , appliances, worktops and VAT

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SO

NEWS

Sevenoaks

NEWS...

OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT SOME OF THE LOCAL STORIES MAKING THE HEADLINES ordered by the council to stop creating a sickly sweet smell and to install a regenerative thermal oxidiser – a machine that would remove the stench – both of which it has failed to do. The trial will take place in September at Sevenoaks Magistrates Court.

HIGH FRYERS

GOLD LEAF After spending more than 100 hours constructing a giant teapot, cake and chair out of flowers, four Hadlow College students became the first people in the UK to win a gold medal in floristry at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, when the new category was introduced this year. Their design, based on the Mad Hatter’s tea party, used freshly cut flowers and leaves to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. “What a wonderful result for our talented and motivated level five students,” says Hadlow College Director, Mark Lumsdon-Taylor.

The college was also awarded RHS Chelsea Floristry College of the Year 2015.

Despite Sevenoaks boasting many top-end eateries, it seems local residents could be looking for something a little simpler, if recent TripAdvisor results are anything to go by. In a list of 92 restaurants in and around Sevenoaks, the McDonald’s on Old Otford Road ranks surprisingly high – rated 34th in a ‘best of’ list.

Just below it in the rankings were a kebab house and a fish and chip shop.

STORE SAVER

NUDE NEIGHBOURS Tonbridge residents might want to think about making sure their curtains are closed, if they don’t want their neighbours to catch a glimpse of them in their birthday suits.

A recent ‘alternative census’ by Rightmove revealed that nearly one in four people living in Tonbridge have seen their neighbours naked, while 16.3% of locals declared they had seen a UFO – 7% above the national average. It seems spooky sightings are rare in the town though, with only 12% claiming to have seen a ghost.

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A Waitrose worker who saved a shopper’s life when he collapsed has had his efforts recognised by being shortlisted for an award.

Mark Barnes, who works in the Sevenoaks Waitrose branch, was nominated by the customer’s daughter Sarah Bettsworth and is now one of 40 people in the running for a St John Ambulance Local Heroes Award.

“I wanted to know that I could step in and save someone’s life if they needed help,” says Mark.

“I’ll be at the awards ceremony representing everyone who helped save Tony; but it’s important to remember that it was our first aid skills that kept him alive today and his family hasn’t lost a dad and grandfather.

That’s enough reward in itself.”

SWEET APPEAL A factory in Tonbridge plans to appeal two abatement notices despite receiving hundreds of complaints over a 20-year period. In 2014 the Drytec factory, which produces the fragrance used in deodorant and flavours for food, was

PEDAL PEEVE Cyclists in Westerham have been left bemused, after a sign appeared asking them not to put up any signs. The notice, which was posted on a telegraph pole on Westerham Hill, read ‘Cycling clubs, do not attach arrows in this area, they will be removed. Lycra louts are not welcome here! Blocking our roads and polluting our countryside with orange plastic signs.’ Many unhappy cyclists took to Twitter to share the image of the note and point out the irony of it.

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LETTERS

SO

...AND VIEWS

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

LETTER OF THE MONTH

MAKING SPACE

I often avoid visiting Westerham town centre at the weekends due to the lack of parking spaces, so I for one definitely welcome the proposal to extend the Darent Road car park. Whether adding only 66 spaces is enough is another matter – when there are football matches at the weekends, parking is a nightmare, so even with the extra spaces I can’t see this issue being resolved. Still, mustn’t grumble; anything is better than nothing!

KATE TOZER, WESTERHAM Ed: Or perhaps it’s time to dust off that bike and cycle in?

I’m sure I’m not the only one who was hugely relieved when the Cock Inn in Ide Hill finally got the go-ahead to finish its renovation work. The hostelry plays a central part in the community and the confusion over planning permission meant spirits were definitely dampened over recent weeks. I’m pleased to see it’s now back up and running and I hope the hindrance hasn’t cost them too many punters.

STEPHEN CATT, TOYS HILL Ed: Make ours a large glass of red!

NO NEW BUILD What an error it would be if Sevenoaks District Council agrees plans to build 300 new homes in Edenbridge. As all locals know, the land is at a high risk of flooding – I doubt new residents would be too pleased having to bail out buckets of rainwater every winter. Let’s hope the council sees sense and doesn’t approve this proposal.

SARAH KING, EDENBRIDGE Ed: What do you think of the proposed plans? Let us know.

JOLLY HOLIDAY After spending thousands on house refurbishments this year, I’d got myself very depressed over the fact that I couldn’t afford an exotic holiday this summer. But, as luck would have it, just when I was considering hibernating until Christmas, I came across your delightful Seaside Guide (June). I’m loathe to admit that I’m more of a St Tropez girl and haven’t visited any of the shores on your shortlist, but that’s all about to change. I’ve made it my personal mission to visit them all this summer, even if my tan has to come from a bottle!

FLEUR HILLMAN-DELANEY, BY EMAIL Ed: It would be rude not to have fish and chips at each destination too!

TOPICAL TWITTER Dan Clews @DanClews n @conn_iggulden slightly obsessed with your books.

Have even found a plaque about Jack Cade in my home town Sevenoaks.

Oliver Schneider @SevenoaksOliver n Very interesting talk by @eatnmesscakes at @bfastfriends event. Discussed need for a #Sevenoaks #farmersmarket on Sunday’s!

UnoLovelyDebi @UnoLovelyDebi n I do like the hanging baskets in Tonbridge High Street and Station Parade...Top Marks!

ShimmeringMoonPhoto @shimmeringmoon_ n Looking at the garden goodies in one of my favourite shops... The Vintage Home Company in Westerham. @KeepitinKent Philip @PhilipHGCC n Helped @7oaks_gardens with putting up his greenhouse this afternoon. As a thank you he gave me a book that he borrowed from me 2 yrs ago...

John Pemberton @InsideNature n We have added our first native species to @Hadlow_ College animal collection.

Eurasian water shrew

SO SUNNY SO made an excellent travelling partner when it accompanied me to sunny Florida recently.

Here we are at the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival at Walt Disney World.

LAURA PLANE, BY EMAIL Ed: It’s always handy to have an extra companion on theme park rides!

Rachel @nrkemoon n Beautiful #poodle & bluebells #shipbourne #tonbridge. Basil found squirrels & sticks, but only took one home luckily!

Why not tweet us yourself?

We’ll print our favourites @SoMagazines

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

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

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

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INTERVIEW

“I’VE HAD SOME DISASTERS, LIKE THE CAKES COLLAPSING IN HOT WEATHER OR THE GAZEBO BLOWING OVER, BUT THERE’S NO POINT BEING UPSET ABOUT IT!”

Now, Danielle is baking thousands of cakes a week. As well as novelty cakes for parties, which can take up to 10 hours to

TO MARKET, TO MARKET

complete, she also bakes up to 20 trays of

From fashion to fondant fancies, baker Danielle Rumbelow is mixing things up in Sevenoaks…

bakes, Danielle admits she’s quite

cakes a day and gets through almost 200 eggs a week. Despite the amount she restrained when it comes to indulging.

“I always try to go to the gym of a morning because I do like cake,” Danielle

ALTHOUGH BAKING IS something

“I did the personal shopping for about six

says. “I don’t eat that much of it, but my

that she’s always wanted to pursue, it took

months but I just had a feeling that it wasn’t

other half Matthew is the worst. I’ll hear

Danielle Rumbelow, 27, the best part of a

me,” she says. “That’s when I decided to go

him sneaking into my van at night or

decade to realise her dream. “At 16 I got a

for it with the cake business.”

eating things in the kitchen. I’ve had to

job at a café in Sevenoaks and I loved it,”

In March 2013, EatnMess was officially

hide everything in my larder!”

Luckily, Danielle won’t have to hide her

she says. “I just enjoyed being among

launched. Danielle bought a van and spent

customers and the whole experience.”

every day travelling to and from Greenwich

wares for much longer, because this

market, selling her wares, before

month she’s set to open her first shop in

to work in fashion, so instead of

eventually moving on to Broadway market

Sevenoaks town centre after receiving

continuing down the cake path she went

in Hackney on Saturdays, Chislehurst

thousands of pounds from well-wishers

to university to study fashion, then landed

market on Sundays and spending her

and cake lovers alike.

a job at women’s luxury retailer Reiss,

weeks in her kitchen at home creating

eventually working her way up to

bespoke cakes for customers.

However, Danielle also had ambitions

“I’d been looking around for a shop premises for about a year, then I heard

“The markets are hard,” she admits.

about Kickstarter, which is where people

“The weather is the worst thing – I’ve had

donate and in return they get rewards,”

it wasn’t what I wanted to do,” Danielle

some disasters like the cakes collapsing in

she says. “The response was massive – in

says. “I’d always wanted to go travelling, so

hot weather or the gazebo blowing over,

30 days I had over £12,000, some from

I thought while I was in limbo I’d go to

but there’s no point being upset about it!”

people I don’t even know.”

management level.

“I loved it, but I just had a gut feeling that

Australia. I used that as a chance to clear my head and decide what I wanted.”

During her year in Australia Danielle once again caught the baking bug, but when she returned to the UK in 2012, she

When she began, Danielle was baking

With her new venture on the horizon, will

regular cakes, but being gluten intolerant

Danielle be giving up the markets for good?

herself, she introduced a few new creations and suddenly they were flying off the stall.

“When I started I did a few gluten-free

“My regulars panicked when they heard about the shop,” she says with a laugh.

“But I’ll still be spending my weekends at

decided to use her fashion degree and

bits, but suddenly the demand grew,”

the markets. I don’t get many days off but

start up a personal shopping business.

says Danielle. “I pretty much changed my

when I do, I spend them going around

However, once again, she quickly realised

whole stall to gluten-free and introduced

foodie places in London. It’s research!”

that fashion wasn’t her passion after all.

some dairy-free and sugar-free cakes too.”

www.eatnmesscakes.co.uk

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HEVER__CA.SfLE

HISTORIC - PIC

• 2 MONTH REFUNDABLE TRIAL MEMBERSHIP OFFER Golfers seeking to try out membership before committing are invited to join either our

• Princes Course for £60 or our Championship Course for £149 which would give them 2 months unlimited golf.

If they subsequently join we would even refund this!

• Unique & Innovative 'Express' Course to attract new golfers Our Princes Course will be modified during open week to offer 'Express Golf' featuring a reduced playing length and oversize holes to give new players an easy introduction to golf or those 'time pressured' the opportunity to play 9 holes in under an hour!

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TURESQUE INSPIRING

• Discounted Green Fees during the week We are of course seeking to showcase our fabulous courses and visitors are invited to come and play at our 'guest' rate during the week

• FUN PAR 3 COMPETITION Visitors are invited to join our members in a fun Par 3 competition over our 'Express Course' on the evening of Friday 17th, featuring a shortened course and oversize cups even new golfers can play and will be made very welcome.

To book all activities & for more details please visit hever.co.uk/openweek or call the Pro-Shop on 01732 701 008 Hever Castle Golf Club, Hever Road, Hever, Edenbridge, Kent, TNS 7NP

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EVENTS

SO

JULY

CALENDAR 3RD » That’s Entertainment

LEWIS J BROCKWAY

This month, Tentertainment, one of Kent’s biggest free music festivals, returns to Tenterden’s recreation ground from Friday July 3 to Sunday July 5. As well as live entertainment from dozens of acts, including folk band Coco and the Butterfields and The Voice star Hannah Wildes, there will be food and drink stalls, shopping and even ‘toddlertainment’ for the little ones.

For the full line up, timings and directions visit www.tentertainment.co.uk

3RD » Summer Shows

4TH » Hidden Treasures

10TH » Tonbridge Talents

From opera and outdoor cinema to plays and stand-up comedy, there’s something for everyone at Hever’s Summer Festival.

Throughout July and August, the Festival Theatre in Hever Castle’s grounds will play host to a whole range of shows, beginning on Friday July 3 with a performance from comedian Marcus Brigstocke. Guests can enjoy a picnic before shows or book a pre-theatre dinner or cream tea in the Guthrie Pavilion.

For tickets, timings and more information call 01732 866 114 or visit www.heverfestival.co.uk

Empty out the attic and bring your goods to Hole Park in Rolvenden for their free valuation day. From 10am to 3pm, specialist valuers from the Canterbury Auction Galleries will be on hand to estimate what your art, antiques and collectables could be worth. There will also be free entry to the gardens and the Coach House will be serving light lunches and refreshments.

To find out more, visit www.holepark.com or call 01580 241 344

Celebrating all art forms and displaying an eclectic array of performances, the Tonbridge Arts Festival returns to the town from Friday July 10 to Sunday July 12. During the event, held at Tonbridge Castle, there will be entertainment from local talents, Morris dancing, 80s themed concerts and a performance from the Brompton Military Wives choir and military bands.

To see the full programme, or to book tickets (which start from £5) visit www.tonbridgeartsfestival.co.uk J U LY 2 0 1 5

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EVENTS

18TH » All’s Fair

NT/ HANNAH HOLOHAN

Join the community fun as Ightham Mote hosts the traditional village summer celebration. Between 10am and 5pm, there’ll be local stall holders, craft activities and fun and games for children. Ightham and District Gardeners’ Club are also holding their summer show, so check out the competition in veg, flower arrangements, photos and even a craft display, then decide whether you agree with the judges.

Entry to the event is free but normal admission prices apply. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ightham-mote

11TH » Fete Fun

12TH » Going Loco

18TH » Tent Event

It may seem a long way off, but residents of Rusthall, near Tunbridge Wells, are already fundraising for this year’s fireworks by holding a village fete. Held on the Southwood Road playing fields, the event will see fun for all the family, with food and drink stalls, children’s entertainment and live music. The fete, which costs £1 for adults, begins at noon and from 4pm there will be a foam party and music.

The day is run by volunteers, so if you’re interested in helping out, email lisatoes@yahoo.co.uk.

Whether you’re a model rail enthusiast or just looking for a fun family day out, you’ll find lots to see and do at the annual Sevenoaks Model Railway Exhibition. Open at Sevenoaks Primary School from 10am to 4pm, the event will showcase the very best rail models, while stalls selling new and pre-loved trains, tracks and accessories will fill the venue.

Real ales will be for sale, as well as many other food and drink options. There’ll also be a large scale model aircraft static display. www.modelrailwayexhibition.com

See Sissinghurst Castle Garden in a different light, by spending the night in the grounds. For one night only, visitors can pitch a tent in the orchards and camp out at the historic location as part of the National Trust’s Big Camp event. As well as bug hunts, stargazing and a lantern walk around the lake, there’ll be storytelling and marshmallow toasting by the campfire.

Tickets cost £25 per adult and £15 per child and a hot breakfast is included. Booking is essential on 0844 249 1895

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EVENTS

SO

30TH » Write Idea Every Thursday from July 30 to August 27, budding writers are invited to visit Knole and share their ideas about deer. Led by young poet Ella Frears from Spread the Word, ‘Deer Diary’ is a creative writing and multisensory storytelling event, where writers are encouraged to put pen to paper and tell a tale from the perspective of a deer at Knole.

The event is free to participate in and runs from 11am to 3pm. www.nationaltrust.org/knole

19TH » Best in Show

25TH » Olden Times

26TH » Gardener’s World

Enjoy a day out for the whole family, including your furry friends, at the Rare Breeds Centre when they hold their annual family dog show. From 10am, bring your pet along for some fun classes including ‘waggiest tail’ and ‘most like its owner’.

Classes cost £3 and rosettes will be awarded for the top 10 dogs in each category.

Winners will also receive a special prize.

For further information, or to register your dog for the event, call Nikki Sara on 01233 861 493 or email nikki@rarebreeds.org.uk

For those looking for unusual pieces, antiques and other hidden treasures, head down to the Pantiles Vintage and Collectables Weekend in Tunbridge Wells this month. The event, which runs on Saturday July 25 and Sunday July 26, will be filled with eclectic items for the home and garden, jewellery, books and many other retro collectables. Throughout the event, visitors can also enjoy food stalls and live entertainment.

Open daily from 10am. For more information, visit www.marketsquaregroup.co.uk

For one day only, the Sevenoaks Allotment Holders’ Association are opening their gates and inviting the public to see where they go and what they grow. From 10am, the site on Allotment Lane will be open, showcasing the 220 plots, which overlook the North Downs.

During the day, allotment holders will be on hand to offer growing advice, there will be fundraising for Hospice in the Weald, local stall holders, children’s activities, including a scarecrow competition and refreshments. www.sevenoaksallotments.com J U LY 2 0 1 5

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SISSINGHURST CASTLE • Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN17 2AB

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o844 249 1895 www.thepantaloons.co.uk

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J U LY

THIS MONTH

YOU SHOULD TREK… If you’re looking for a holiday where you can indulge in the best local food and still have the chance to walk it off, you’re in luck this summer. In the stunning Alta Badia region of the Italian Dolomite mountains, you can discover both the area’s gourmet offerings and its breathtaking scenery with the new ‘GourMete’ walking itineraries. Eight Michelin-starred chefs have created delicious dishes inspired by the mountain trails, which are served up at ‘refuges’ along the four GourMete routes – the UNESCO Tour, the Family Tour, the Tradition Tour and the Nature Tour. You’ll dine at between one and three refuges on each trail, which are up to five hours in duration and vary in difficulty.

Walks are free and dishes cost between £9 and £20. www.altabadia.org

READ…

LISTEN...

WATCH…

It’s fair to say that few second novels have been as eagerly anticipated as this month’s release from Harper Lee. The author has taken 55 years to produce a follow-up to her Pulitzer Prize winning classic, To Kill a Mockingbird and fans of her debut book will be keen to catch up with many of the original characters in the sequel. Set 20 years after the events of the first novel, Go Set a Watchman sees Scout return to her home town, where she must battle with personal and political issues, her father’s attitude to society and her own feelings about the place where she grew up. £9.49 at www.waterstones.com from July 14.

Five years have passed since their last studio album was released and now The Chemical Brothers, the masters of transcendent electronic music, return with Born in the Echoes. Renowned for their ability to set the pop charts alight as well as appealing to niche music fans, The Chemical Brothers have collaborated with a number of acclaimed artists for this album, including St Vincent, Cate Le Bon and Beck. The 11-track album is released on July 17 and will be available from www.rakuten.co.uk priced at £10.98 for the standard CD and £14.98 for the deluxe edition.

Julianne Moore stars in this moving drama about a happily married woman who is diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s. The accomplished professor has to face up to the devastating diagnosis and the effect it has on her husband and three grown-up children, while trying to hold onto her own sense of self. Moore won an Oscar, BAFTA and Golden Globe for her portrayal of the eponymous Alice, so witness her shattering performance for yourself when Still Alice is released on DVD on July 6.

Available at www.amazon.co.uk priced from £10.25.

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19/06/2015 16:35

THIS MONTH YOU SHOULD

SO

CARRY… They may have caused some controversy in the press recently over their views on IVF, but fashion designers Dolce & Gabbana still know how to create arm candy. When the weather is as unpredictable as ours, you can add a touch of summer to your wardrobe with this eye-catching box clutch bag. Created using white wood and leather, the flamboyant yet delicate bag is ideal for weddings, garden parties – anything that could use a little garden glamour.

Get yours via www.veryfirstto.com for a mere £7,008

APPLY… Caviar is among the world’s most exclusive delicacies, so it’s no surprise that the treat features in an exclusive anti-ageing treatment too. La Prairie’s White Caviar Illuminating Moisturising Cream claims to firm and moisturise the skin, while reducing the appearance of dark spots and helping to prevent new ones forming.

Hopefully there’s no fishy odour to this wonder product, but at £311 for 50ml, we can probably assume that La Prairie has neutralised the fragrance somewhat.

Available at www.harrods.com

FLUTTER… British summertime isn’t complete without a day out at the races and where better to experience the Sport of Kings than Glorious Goodwood? The Qatar Goodwood Festival runs from July 28 to August 1 and there’s plenty to enjoy, including glamorous Ladies’ Day on Thursday July 30. But if you’re all dressed up in your finery, standing by the track with the riff-raff just isn’t good enough – why not treat yourself to a private box? The March Boxes offer private balconies facing the winner’s post and for just £655 per person, plus VAT, you can enjoy a Champagne reception, three-course meal, afternoon tea and other perks. The boxes seat up to 15 people, so for just over £9,800, you could treat family and friends to an unforgettable day out… www.goodwood.com

CAMP… If the thought of roughing it on holiday this summer is making you dread your family break, don’t despair – there’s a thoroughly cultural solution in the form of The Opera.

Created by Dutch manufacturer YSIN, The Opera is a mobile trailer tent that resembles an elegant Sydney landmark on the outside and a luxury private suite on the inside. With electronically adjusted beds, a 40-litre fridge, heating, hot water and even a ceramic toilet, you can wave goodbye to all the common camping gripes and just enjoy life on the road.

Prices range from €49,580 (£36,000) to €58,740 (£43,000), plus admin fees, but what price a good night’s sleep? www.ysin.nl

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19/06/2015 16:43

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SO

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

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23/06/2015 09:38

RANT

SO

TRIPPING UP ON THE INTERNET

Here’s where we give readers the chance to express their opinions on a contentious local topic.

This month, a café owner from the Weald asks their customers to think before they speak out on the worldwide web

T

here are so many ways in which the internet revolution has indeed revolutionised the way we live. As a small business owner, I fully embrace the benefits that the web can bring, so I’m no anti-internet bore. However, there are certainly ways in which the internet can be abused and the instantaneous nature of it means that businesses can be damaged in moments, with very little recourse for the owner.

One of the key problem areas is feedback sites like TripAdvisor.

Generally, I would say these sites are very good things – essentially, it’s just a more modern form of good old word of mouth. But it seems that many people are now heading straight for their keyboard when they’ve a bad experience, instead of first taking their complaint to the business. You only have to browse through TripAdvisor to see plenty of examples of business owners responding to complaints, saying that they had no idea the customer was dissatisfied until they saw the negative review.

Failing to inform the owner of your concern at the time robs them not only of the chance to put things right on the spot, but also to retain good will and prevent a bad review – which could be seen by anyone in the world – that may have been caused by a mistake or misunderstanding, rather than a poor level of service.

TripAdvisor does give business people the chance to respond publicly to each review, but these appear at the bottom of each

comment and are not given anywhere near as much prominence as the review/complaint itself, which has a large glaring headline next to a star rating. Most prospective customers will simply browse through reviews and take a look at the average star rating, paying little attention to any response from the owners and this is sometimes unfair.

I’m very lucky in that I have a very loyal customer base, most of whom would speak to me directly if they were unhappy with anything. But a friend of mine owns a café in another part of the country and they had a terrible time after a flood in a neighbouring building caused damage to their premises. Despite their best efforts, they suffered electrical difficulties and other problems for weeks afterwards – and were dismayed to see several very poor online reviews that criticised their service very harshly. The complainers had apparently failed to see the signs my friend put up explaining the situation, but had the customers mentioned their worries in person, my friend would have been able to explain. She would also have given them the return discount she was offering to all customers who felt inconvenienced by the situation.

Nobody won in that instance, so my plea to the public is this – expect good customer service, by all means. But please only take to the internet once the business owner has been given a chance to make things right.

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

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22/06/2015 09:19

ALL THE NEWS THAT MATTERS, LOCAL, NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL

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GET WITH THE TIMES

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CONFIDENTIAL

BY TACITUS

NOTHING ESCAPES OUR ATTENTION WHO’S maybe just a bit too fond of their doggy?

That would be the chap spotted in a cafe garden sharing his ice cream with his four legged friend.

The man was sat in a chair happily enjoying a cone then reaching out and letting the dog have alternate licks.

What a flavour!

WHY

WHICH

WHO

WHY

are tongues wagging about this popular little restaurant?

Because, sadly, the married owners are having major marital problems. Word at the tables is that the lady is too close to the chef at another eatery in the town, husband has found out and its all boiled over.

pub has banned regulars from the bar?

The one, outside Tunbridge Wells, that has over the last few years turned itself into a restaurant. Those who have supped at the bar have been encouraged to order a meal and sit down or slake their thirsts elsewhere.

They have departed.

has a novel way of getting rid of unwanted staff?

The boss who hasn’t the heart to fire people so pays a head hunter to find them a job, then phone and lure them away to another employer.

Staff actually feel guilty when they hand him their notice.

Result!

did this man and a woman end up with red faces?

Because the couple were spotted coming out of the same office loo, adjusting their attire. The sighting was bad enough. The fact it was their boss who saw them made it even worse.

Bet they can’t wait for their annual reviews.

WHO

WHY

WHO

did this woman switch NHS dentists?

Because her regular chap introduced a new practice at his practice. As she sat down in the chair for a filling he reached over and started a timer.

She couldn’t believe it and nor could fellow dentists when they heard the story.

needs a lesson in public speaking?

Obviously it’s the group of teachers who gather in a certain pub to discuss the serious issues of the day, often in loud voices, the volume being connected to intake.

Top of their agenda recently was the burning issue of… genital piercing!

embarrassed a helpful guard at Cannon Street?

Simples: The tired and emotional Kent commuter who needed assistance boarding the train.

Ever grateful, the man insisted on stuffing a £20 note into the guard’s pocket. After several fruitless attempts to hand the cash back the guard shrugged and walked away defeated.

WHY were police called out to deal with this golfer?

Because he accidentally made a 999 call on his mobile that was in his pocket. The alert was triggered on the touch screen but then the battery died meaning police could not call back. They tried his company, then his home than traced him to the golf course.

How embarrassing!

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

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22/06/2015 10:29

bathrooms

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Untitled-13 1

www.ripples.ltd.uk

23/06/2015 16:24

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

Visit our showroom, or call to book a free home consultation, and we'll show you how easy it is to transform your kitchen with our granite, quartz, recycled glass and porcelain worktops.

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FIELD路 DENTAL

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PRACTICE

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23/06/2015 15:29

THE LOOK

SO

FASHION INSIDER

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

Y

our work wardrobe is one of your strongest tools for making the first right impression. It is also key to helping you

on your journey to a successful career. As I’ve said before, we all judge someone based on how they look within the first four seconds of

WORK IT THIS SUMMER

meeting them. As unfair as this may seem, this is simply in our nature as humans and by being aware of

Culottes or slouchy trousers, teamed with heels and a fitted top, are a great option for a comfortable, yet stylish work outfit. Add a statement necklace or bold coloured clutch to transition your outfit from office to evening.

this fact, you can start thinking about how you can make your work wardrobe work for you. A successful work wardrobe isn’t necessarily about power dressing, it’s about getting your message right.

Whatever industry you work in, it is first of all essential that you establish what image you wish to portray. For example, if you are at a point in your career where you are involved in a number of networking events, knowing exactly what to wear can be a challenge; you may feel uncomfortable wearing your best ‘go to’ outfit or something too corporate, however, you may also feel underdressed in your more ‘relaxed’ clothes.

My advice here is to always feel comfortable with what you’re wearing, but make the effort to add some detail to your outfit that will inspire or say something about your level of professionalism.

This could mean replacing a cardigan with a fitted jacket, or tucking your shirt or blouse into your trousers rather than having it hang loosely. It could be a bold print on your dress

“IN ORDER TO BE IRREPLACEABLE ONE MUST ALWAYS BE DIFFERENT” COCO CHANEL

top

TIP Stick to a maximum of three main colours in any given outfit.

Use any more and the colours lose their impact.

or a simple jean and top combo, finished with a beautiful pair of shoes.

For the summer, I recommend you invest in at least two or three key outfits that will see you through your important meetings, presentations and networking opportunities.

Sometimes less is more in these cases, so investing in a beautifully fitted yet understated dress, like this waisted trench dress by Jaeger (£250, www.jaeger.co.uk), can be enough to say that you mean business.

Catherine de Crèvecoeur PERSONAL STYLIST www.stylepourmoi.com

Splurge Vs Steal An essential accessory to any work wardrobe, this white strapped Links watch with a hint of rose gold will finish your summer outfit perfectly (£695, www.linksoflondon.com). You can also roll up your sleeves and show off this one by Karen Millen for a fraction of the price (£95, www.karenmillen.com)

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19/06/2015 15:59

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23/06/2015 15:18

THE LOOK

SO

SUITCASE STYLE

GRAB THESE BEACH HOLIDAY FINDS AND HEAD FOR SUNNIER CLIMES

MICHAEL KORS

Jet set shoulder wallet, £155 www.selfridges.com

STELLA MCCARTNEY

Blossom print bikini, £180 www.harveynichols.com

SOPHIA WEBSTER

Luca Aztec sandals, £305 www.selfridges.com

LINDSEY BROWN

Orchid swimsuit, £125 www.lindseybrown.com

HOBBS

Madison check dress, £129 www.hobbs.co.uk

MONSOON

EAST

Sweetlime vintage embellishment leather shopper, £295 www.east.co.uk

Margot maxi dress, £99 www.monsoon.co.uk

MISSONI MARE

Sfumato striped fine knit kaftan, £510 www.harveynichols.com

MIU MIU

Rasior grey havanas, £171 www.sunglasses-shop.co.uk

EUGENIA KIM

DUNE

Linzi natural double strap espadrille, £99 www.dunelondon.com

Cream and blue Craig hat, £220 www.liberty.co.uk

EAST

Virgina silk palazzo pants, £149 www.east.co.uk

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19/06/2015 16:01

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THE LOOK

SO

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

MAKEOVER IN STORE

BEAUTIFUL BOOKINGS Customers looking for a pamper session can now book appointments at salons across London with a new online service.

Vaniday has been launched by Rocket Internet – the same company behind beauty subscription scheme Glossybox – and gives people the chance to search and book across the beauty and wellness industry.

Customers can make appointments with both salons and mobile therapists, while professionals can use the service to manage their schedules, bookings and payments.

The site only covers London businesses at the moment, but will be rolled out nationwide at a later date. www.vaniday.co.uk

Waxing lyrical

H&M launches a complete new beauty collection later this year to replace its current cosmetics offering.

Due to be released in the autumn, the new collection will feature more than 700 smartly packaged new products at launch and will be available at over 900 stores nationwide, as well as online at www.hm.com The focus will be on fashion and ever-evolving looks that change with the seasons.

“We are very excited to have ‘fashion for the face’ on offer at H&M. It’s an opportunity to be inventive, creative and to have fun with colours”, says Sara Wallander, Concept Designer at H&M Beauty.

New waxing salons will be coming to 15 towns across the UK over the next four years – will a Wealden location be among them?

Singapore based beauty group Spa Espirit has revealed plans to open more than a dozen new premises, under the specialist brands Ministry of Waxing and Browhaus. The group currently has three salons in London and some of the new locations will also be in the capital, but others will be nationwide.

“London is exciting for us because I think if you’re really good in Asia you need to be competing in London and New York,” says Managing Director, Cynthia Chua. “We started in London in 2009 but it was slow but now the operations are really solid and in Singapore, we can move here and grow things much more quickly.” www.spaespiritgroup.com

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19/06/2015 16:03

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THE LOOK

BREAST OF FRIENDS Temple Spa has introduced a new product that claims to improve skin firmness and elasticity around the breasts.

Award winning Bosom Pal is clinically proven to improve firmness by 57%, making it ideal for targeting the loss of volume and elasticity brought about by ageing, weight loss and breastfeeding.

Ingredients include key complex CellActive®-FORM which uses active plant ingredients such as quince and chlorella extract to help activate lipid accumulation.

The formula also includes pink grapefruit to tone, the anti-inflammatory of wild yam root extract and the antioxicants and antiageing properties of Vitamin C. The manufacturer recommends massaging Bosom Pal into the breast and décolleté twice a day. Bosom Pal is available at www.templespa.com, Harrods and Selfridges, priced at £39 for 50ml.

Chanel crossing If ever you needed a reason to pack your passport and hop on the Eurostar, this is surely it.

Chanel has announced that later this year, it will open its first beauty spa at the Ritz Paris. The iconic fashion brand is synonymous with style and luxury, so the new spa – to be known as Chanel au Ritz Paris – is sure to be the hottest destination in France once it flings open its elegant doors.

The Ritz Paris is an apt choice for the venture, as Mademoiselle Coco Chanel famously lived there for 34 years. The spa will be part of the hotel’s new look, which will be unveiled at the end of the year after a two-year renovation period. www.ritzparis.com

KALE AND HEARTY

ONLINE ORACLE Those hunting for beauty advice are in luck with new website Powder.Designed to offer both general beauty news and personalised tips on the best products for your skin, Powder is an addictive new service that could solve all your beauty dilemmas. Once you’ve created a simple free account, you can answer a series of simple questions about your skin type, priorities, desired look and budget, and the site will suggest the most suitable moisturisers, cleansers and serums for you. Then you buy them straightaway, taking all the hassle out of shopping.

You can save the recommendations in your Beauty Drawer for future reference and consult the Beauty Feed for news stories and latest tips and advice. www.thisispowder.co.uk

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Celebrity makeup artist Ashley Weatherfood has revealed some of the stars’ secrets – and kale is among his beauty heroes. With a starry array of clients that includes Beyonce, Rihanna and model Joan Smalls, Ashley should know what does the trick when it comes to achieving the perfect look.

He told a fashion website: “Kale is very high in vitamin K and it increases circulation and helps cell turnover. If you approach your makeup with a holistic approach to health, everything else seems a bit easier.”Ashley also revealed that he likes to use eye cream to moisturise the entire face, while slathering the whole body in face cream, for a more hydrated result.

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•

UPTO

0 0 OFF WOMEN'S FASHION, MENSWEAR ACCESSORIES AND HOMEWARES Sa le ends Sun day 26 July 2015

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DON'T BE BUGGED OUT BY YOUR HAIR

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

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23/06/2015 15:06

THE LOOK

SO

BEAUTY

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

GREEN PEOPLE

SCENT FREE SUN LOTION SPF30 200ML, £18.95 Ideal for those with sensitive skin is this new organic product, which offers UVA/UVB protection, antioxidants and skin vitamins A, C and E. The water-resistant formula is made with essential oils and helps to support the skin’s immune system and protect against skin damage.

Available from www.greenpeople.co.uk

DEBORAH LIPPMANN

PAINTED DESERT NAIL POLISHES, £16 The Sahara helps to inspire Deborah Lippmann’s new collection of luxe nail polishes and Shifting Sands is our favourite – the nude style shade will look great next to tanned skin. The new range features other earthy hues so you can give your manicure an exotic edge.

Available from www.lookfantastic.com

ALORÉE

TWO PHASE FACE MIST 100ML, £28 Keeping your cool in the heat isn’t easy, but this new hydrating mist replenishes the skin’s moisture using chlorophyll and antioxidants.

Chlorophyll also has anti-ageing properties, so you can rejuvenate your skin even as you cool it.

Available from www.aloree.co.uk

ESTÉE LAUDER

BRONZE GODDESS FACE & EYE PALETTE, £44 This limited edition Shimmering Nudes palette is a holiday must-have, boasting three great nude shades and three glittering metallics, to help you create real drama around the eyes.

You can also sculpt cheekbones and highlight, so it’s perfect for packing light.

Available from www.esteelauder.co.uk

ELEMIS

TOTAL GLOW BRONZING BODY LOTION 200ML, £34.50 Any fan of self tan knows that the products’ smell can often be a disappointing tell-tale sign – so it’s good news that Elemis’s streak-free body lotion has a much nicer scent.

Essential oils condition the skin so you can have hydration and a sun-kissed glow all year round.

Available from www.feelunique.com

URBAN DECAY

REVOLUTION HIGH COLOUR LIP GLOSS, £15 Available in 14 gorgeous shades, in both cream and sparkle finishes, these fantastic new lip glosses are long-lasting and high impact. The Pigment Infusion System gives the gloss its strong colour coverage, while Hilurlip hydrates the lips with each wear.

Available from www.urbandecay.co.uk

NEXXUS

ENCAPSULATE CAVIAR SÉRUM 60ML, £35 Don’t let the fishy reference put you off – this anti-frizz serum is simply enriched with caviar complex and concentrated elastin protein.

This is the first product to suspend conditioning oil as pearls in a water-based serum, to give you a smooth yet weightless result.

Available from www.selfridges.com

SKIN DESIGN LONDON

SLEEPING BEAUTY NIGHT CREAM, 50ML, £90 Claiming to do exactly what it says on the tin, this formula is a yeast-derived plant-based collagen mask that targets fine lines and wrinkles. Plant oils, antioxidants and vitamins rehydrate the skin, enhance elasticity and fight the signs of ageing while you doze.

Available from www.skindesignlondon.com

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19/06/2015 16:05

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Jacqui's Story Concept Facelift™, Neck Rejuvenation, & Upper Eyelid Surgery

Aged 70 from West Sussex

My beautician recommended a couple of cosmetic surgeons to me and that's how I came across Amir. I attended an open evening to find out more, and what encouraged me further was that I could have the procedures I was looking at under a local anaesthetic rather than needing a general.

I came to the evening with my husband and we were both impressed with what Amir had to say, the photos he showed us, and most importantly the way he answered everyone's questions with honesty and clarity. We didn't feel it was just a slick presentation so I decided to go ahead with a face lift, neck lift, and an upper eye lift.

' ' I was able to chat to the team and they chatted to me. I felt relaxed and

in good hands.

JJ

On the day of my procedure Amir took me through the pre-operative preparation carefully and unhurriedly. The operating theatre team were welcoming and friendly. The whole procedure took 3 hours, during which I was able to chat to the team and they chatted to me. I felt relaxed and in good hands.

I had a check-up with Amir a week later, and I am thrilled with the outcome. I look younger but without the "Oh gosh, what have you had done?''.

Amir continued to monitor me with checkups after surgery. Nothing is too much trouble for him and he's said several times "If you are worried about anything just contact me any time, including weekends': and he absolutely means it. He's the only surgeon I have used who has that approach.

Here are some other procedures and treatments available! ~

The Concept Facelift™ was pioneered by UI< trained surgeon Mr. Amir Nakhdjevani MBBS, MRCS, FRCS (Plast.)

Amir graduated from St. George's Hospital Medical School and undertook his plastic surgery training in a number of prestigious hospitals in England and overseas.

~

~

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THE LOOK

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BEAUTY

bulletin the procedure under local anesthetic is one of, “Will I feel any pain? Would I be able to see what is going on?” Our patients find the experience to be rewarding, pain-free and have gone on to recommend the ConceptTM Facelift to friends and family.

There is no better way than word of mouth recommendations. Often patients past and present arrange to meet and see for themselves the results of the procedure.

So, what is different about the ConceptTM Facelift?

Traditionally facelifts are carried out under general anaesthetic often with bandages, drains and staples on the scar that extends into the hair. This involves a hospital stay and weeks of bruising before recovery. The ConceptTM Facelift is a full

A NEW TECHNIQUE IN FACELIFTS

Amir Nakhdjevani, consultant plastic surgeon at Bella Vou Pantiles Clinic in Tunbridge Wells, gives us the lowdown on his ‘walk in, walk out’ facelift

facelift and is performed as a ‘walk in, walk out’ procedure carried out under local anesthetic, leaving a smaller scar and using no bandages, drains or staples.

The sutures are absorbable, therefore there is no need for suture removal.

Bruising is minimal if any, so the downtime is minimal. The ConceptTM

only been developed in the last 2 years?

Facelift creates a natural, youthful and

In today’s busy world of work and social

It is well documented that if the muscle

fresh appearance and lasts as long as

commitments, most people are looking

layer (SMAS) under the skin is tightened

traditional facelifts! As a result Concept

for what fits with their lifestyle. The

in a facelift, it can make the results last 5

has been trademarked and I am the only

ConceptTM Facelift was developed after

to 10 years. If a skin-only facelift is

surgeon in the country offering the

repeatedly hearing from patients “Why

performed, longevity will be reduced due

ConceptTM Facelift.

has facelift surgery not changed over the

to loss of skin elasticity. I tighten the

years?” and “Why can’t we get the results

SMAS as I would in a traditional facelift

had a facelift?” it implies that signs of

we want without the downtime of

and that is the key to the longevity

surgery are visible. A good facelift should

traditional surgery?” So I listened to

of the procedure.

be subtle and give a fresh appearance, it

How did the Concept

TM

Facelift come about?

patients and looked into ways of

On the whole, if people ask, “Have you

should not appear that the person has had

improving the technique. I combined

Are patients anxious about

surgery; they should just be looking

different existing methods with my own

undergoing a new procedure

natural and fresh. That is exactly what the

ideas to create a technique in keeping

and under local anesthetic?

ConceptTM Facelift produces – a fresh look

with today’s age.

Understandably, yes – the thought

without the signs of surgery.

of a new procedure is daunting, not to How can you be sure that this procedure

mention a facial one that you can’t hide if

For more information call 01892 257 357

lasts as long as a traditional facelift, if it’s

it goes wrong. Often the anxiety of having

or visit www.bellavou.co.uk

ConceptTM is a registered trade mark of Concept Plastic Surgery Limited.

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23/06/2015 15:46

SO

ADVERTORIAL

OPPORTUNITY FOR CHANGE Life can get on top of us sometimes, so it can be helpful to speak to a professional about any problems that may be affecting the way we behave and interact with others. We find out how Peter Marlow, registered counsellor and psychotherapist (MBACP) in Tunbridge Wells, can help get the process started

In our everyday lives, we usually cope

relationships, work problems or

with emotionally difficult situations and

my behaviour

sometimes for the first time to

life can return to normal. At other times,

 My problems make me feel powerless

someone about memories or feelings

however, we may feel our problems are

and helpless – when we feel just

they have had great difficulty in

overwhelming and it is difficult to

overwhelmed and numb, get panic

acknowledging before. Just being able

continue being ourselves.

attacks or use alcohol or self-harm

to share emotions safely with another

to cope

person can bring great relief. Therapy

In general there are three indicators that are useful in assessing whether counselling or psychotherapy can help:

Therapy allows people to speak

allows us to develop a deeper Counselling and psychotherapy allow us

understanding of what makes us feel

to explore disturbing or disruptive

and act the way we do, which offers

 The problem has been affecting me for

feelings more deeply. It is about

us the opportunity for real change.

a long time and I haven’t been able to

understanding our real feelings and how

resolve it – resulting in anxious thoughts

these can affect our perceptions and

To find out more, call 07707 994 269 or

persisting in the mind

everyday behaviour. It takes place in a

0800 881 5253. Alternatively, email

 The same sort of problems keep

quiet, supportive, non-judgemental and

peter@petermarlowtherapy.co.uk or visit

recurring in my life – maybe with

confidential setting.

www.petermarlowtherapy.co.uk

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23/06/2015 09:43

THE LOOK

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EXPERT OPINION

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE ON YOUR HEALTH, BEAUTY AND WELLBEING

is an itchy, flaky scalp and they tend to struggle to find the right products to combat it. Usually this is because the shampoo they are using is reacting badly with the scalp.

So we give clients a prescriptive shampoo to clear up the scalp issues, then a paraben and sulphate free shampoo to continue using afterwards.

Sun and heat can damage your hair too!

Most of us use at least one styling device every day and we don’t realise the stress we are putting our hair through. Hairdryers and straighteners can reach temperatures of around 180 to 230°C! Would you remove food from a hot oven with no protection?

So why straighten your hair without protecting it? This makes you realise the importance of using a heat protective spray.

Products that are applied to dry hair are not

NATURAL IS THE WAY FORWARD

Krissy Scotton, Salon Director at Revive Hairdressing in Tunbridge Wells, offers her tips for protecting your hair from the heat this summer

going to protect it from the hairdryer, so I would always advise you to use sprays on wet hair, then you will always be protected.

Staying on the topic of heat – if you’re heading off on holiday this year, remember that the sun and the pools can have a damaging effect on your hair. Think about how many times you’ve burned when you’ve

I BELIEVE THAT the way to achieve

beautiful looking hair is to be as natural as possible when it comes to the products

sensitive scalps! Ingredients such as carrot extract, vegetable Vaseline and vitamin C nourish and care for the hair and scalp.

missed a spot while putting on your sun cream. It has the same effect on your hair if you don’t protect it whilst out in the sun – you’ll end up with damaged, frizzy, unmanageable hair.

you use. Gone are the days

Remember, though, it’s

when colour used to be

always advisable

really bad for

to do a skin test before use,

leave this in your hair after swimming, it is

as reactions can happen up to

going to start to damage the hair from the

the hair and scalp.

Chlorine is basically like bleach so if you

In the last few years we have

48 hours after the treatment.

inside. There are a few things you can do to

been introduced to ammonia free

Did you realise that common

prevent this, such as applying a protective

hair products contain parabens and

conditioner or spray before you get in the

hair due to the reduced chemicals. It gives

sulphates? This is why we stock Davines,

pool. This will also help with hair that has

your hair an amazing amount of shine and

as the whole haircare range is 100%

the tendency to go green when in contact

the colour looks natural. Ammonia free

paraben and sulphate free, and contains

with chlorine. We stock a range of

colour can cover up to 100% of grey so it’s

natural ingredients such as tomato and

products that can help protect your

available for everyone; even blondes can use

rocket extract.

hair from these conditions.

colour, which is less damaging to the

our ammonia free bleach.

They also have a prescription range for

Our colour range by Davines is one of the

more specific problems such as hair loss,

For more information contact Revive

few brands that are ammonia and PPD free

oily scalp and sensitive scalp. A common

on 01892 539 004 or visit

– particularly good news for those with

concern that we hear about from our clients

www.revivehairdressing.co.uk

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THE LOOK

BEAUTY

bulletin “MINDFULNESS IS ABOUT REDUCING THE RISK OF RELAPSE INTO DEPRESSION, AND QUITE SIGNIFICANTLY AS WELL” behavioural problems, stress among teachers, sickness rates, self-esteem – the list could go on and on. These things will then have a positive snowball effect through years to come, including, ultimately, less strain on the NHS and welfare budgets.

For Mental Health Foundation, who’ve been advocating mindfulness since 2010 through their Be Mindful campaign (www.bemindful.co.uk), this is promising stuff, but Chief Executive Jenny Edwards is keen to ensure the benefits reach those

MIND THE GAP

who need them most.

Mindfulness is being adopted by people all over the world, but now the Government could be taking notice, as Abi Jackson explains

There are already worrying shortfalls in mental health services (“the average waiting time for access to community mental health services is 25 weeks,” notes Edwards) and focusing on mindfulness, of course, should

SOMETIMES, IN THE middle of a busy

The hope, in a nutshell, is for the

not distract from the importance of

working day, I close my eyes to meditate.

Government to recognise the importance of

Only briefly – but just taking five minutes to

wellbeing in society, the role mindfulness

slow down and connect with your breaths

could play, how this could follow through

mindfulness is a panacea for everything,

and centre your thoughts can work wonders

into policy and how those holding the

because that wouldn’t be right and nobody

for balancing stress levels.

budget-strings could give it some funding.

is particularly recommending it at present

Mindfulness meditation is all the rage and

For this to happen, as former Cabinet

addressing these issues.

“I think we have to be careful not to say

for people who are in the middle of serious

has been one of the biggest wellbeing

Secretary Gus O’Donnell points out, it all

mental illness; people will need more

buzzwords of the last few years. Thousands

boils down to strong, solid facts and figures.

intensive therapies for that – the main

of people from all walks of life have been

“The way I see it, it should be about

problem is, we’re not very good at providing

taking it up and discovering a more steady,

enhancing the wellbeing of the nation,” says

them on the right timescales,” Edwards

manageable and present way of being, even

O’Donnell, a key advocate of wellbeing

explains. “That has to change. But it makes

finding a life-changing way of coping with

economics. A pound spent on mental health,

it all the more important that we do identify

depression, anxiety and chronic pain.

he notes, is “at the margin, hugely more

things that can help, both in a preventative

productive than a pound spent on physical

sense and also help prevent people

significant happened with the launch of the

health”, and yet that isn’t reflected in the

relapsing, and the NICE guidance where it

Mindful Nation UK interim report. The

current system.

does mention mindfulness is about

But earlier this year, something very

Mindfulness All-Party Parliamentary Group

But the Treasury are going to want hefty,

spent the previous eight months looking at

carefully analysed trials and it could also

the benefits of mindfulness, evidence

mean a shift in what we measure.

backing up these benefits and how it might

For example, mindfulness in schools may

reducing the risk of relapse into depression, and quite significantly as well.

“So mindfulness is not the whole story, but it is a very important part of the story and it

be incorporated across a range of UK

or may not have a significant immediate

will reduce the pressure – at the moment, all

services and institutions, mainly education,

impact on exam results, but it could hugely

we’re being offered is to go to our GP and be

healthcare, work and criminal justice.

improve harmony in classrooms,

faced with this tremendous wait.”

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23/06/2015 09:51

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

SO

SUMMER

wishlist : Here are some of our favourite ideas for your wardrobe and home this season

MELEM

OLLIE & ROO

CLUTCH BAGS, FROM £29 If you need a colourful bag to brighten up your summer outfit, take a look at the bags and clutches from Melem. We have a beautiful range of leather bags from Europe plus our own designs made in the UK. The stunning clutches pictured are lined with pockets for credit cards and come in two sizes. www.melem.co.uk

MAKEUP BAGS, FROM £14 Our ever popular makeup bags are available in a variety of fabrics and make great gifts. Visit us to view our wide range of items for new baby, children, ladies and home. Lampshades made to order and ‘make your own’ courses also available. Items are handmade in our Tunbridge Wells studio. www.ollieandroo.co.uk

LOVE INC

V&A PICNIC PLATE, £5 The perfect addition to any summer picnic, Love Inc’s tin plates come from the V&A Museum’s collection of historical pottery. We have a set of 10 different plates, each one with the information about its date and history on the back. Voila – added class and style for your summer garden party! www.loveincltd.co.uk

BAKED BY THE SEA

GIFT BOXES, FROM £15 We deliver beautifully packaged gift boxes containing a range of freshly baked treats – traditional cream teas, sweet and savoury scones and cakes – to anywhere in the UK. A great gift for any occasion!

All gift boxes contain jam and cream, or butter, knives, napkins and a personalised message. www.bakedbythesea.co.uk

SERES GIFTS LIMITED

LARGE STERLING SILVER STARFISH PENDANT, £95 We don’t think you will find a better necklace for summer than this fabulous sterling silver starfish pendant from Seres Gifts. Various sizes available, as well as earrings and superb gentlemen’s cufflinks.

Prices range from £39 to £145. Quote SO2015 at checkout for 10% off your first purchase until September 1. www.seresgifts.com

DECORATIVE ANTIQUES UK

STUNNING PAIR MID CENTURY BRASS PINEAPPLE ICE BUCKETS, £320 Decorative Antiques UK specialise in unique 19th to 20th century French and Swedish Antiques. We are based in a beautiful Georgian shop in Hurst Green, Etchingham, East Sussex.

Call Minnie on 01580 860 317 to find out more. www.decorativeantiquesuk.com

SW19LONDON.com

CLOTHING AND SCARVES, FROM £19 We offer a stylish collection of ladies clothing and co-ordinating scarves showcasing British designers.

We can be found at various events throughout the south east and online. Prices are very easy on the pocket with scarves and sarongs from £19 and clothing from £29. The one-stop shop for your holiday wardrobe! www.sw19london.com

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23/06/2015 15:11

2a William Street, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 9RS Single Class: £15 I Block of 6 classes: £78 £60 £80 (Maximum of 4 women) Tunbridge Wells I Tonbridge I Sevenoaks I Orpington Please contact us for further details and availability.

Don't worry, classes ar..e suitable for all levels eks pregnant or over. (including beginners) who are 14 • • • Your body will go through many changes during your pregnan , the practice of yoga can ease you through the birthing process a d aid with postnatal recovery.

• Alleviate common pregnancy discomforts • Strengthen the body in preparation for labour • Create confidence and calmness in the body • Enjoy a deep and rejuvenating relaxation • Support post-natal recovery Classes combine a series of postures, breathing & ela on techniques designed to support you through your pregnancy, you can · h your baby. learn how to feel amazing and take time to conne We offer 60 minute private pregnancy se h me for you or a group of pregnant friends.

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22/06/2015 15:16

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• • • • •

Verruca treatment, children 's foot care Fungal foot and nail conditions Pre and post pregnancy foot care Persistent hard skin build-up Dry and cracked heels

e

HEALTHY FEET GO A LONG WAY DARREN MARTYN 07974 877 758

Contemporan,J Foot Care Componv

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11 www. face book. corn/Th eContempora ryFootCareCompany ~

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NEW TAI CHI QIGONG CLASSES RESTORE · RENEW · REVITALISE

Generally, after just l 2 weeks, the positive eff to your wellbeing, energy levels and o strength will have developed sl ni nt •. ~~~~

f -·

~- .....

Do please double check there are spaces available in your preferred class before joining and that the class is running during school holidays.

Further drop-in classes will be available soon in Tunbridge Wells and London.

Please contact Julie on 07872 517 l 09

BOOK NOW AT WWW.JULIECOURTNEY.CO.UK

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23/06/2015 09:46

BANG & OLUFSEN It takes 90 years to create movement this beautiful.

The new 55" BeoVision Avant.

An Ultra High-Definition, 4K Bang & Olufsen Smart TV with iconic sound . Experience it in store now. Recommended price ÂŁ6,895 * bang-olufsen.com beoshop.co.uk

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EVENT

SO

the SOCIAL scene These are the pages in the magazine where we focus on events and happenings across the area. If you would like your special occasion to be featured just let us know at info@onemediauk.co.uk DECORATION CELEBRATION The sun shone at Eridge Park near Tunbridge Wells as thousands of interiors enthusiasts headed to the annual Decorative Living Fair, held in its grounds.

Hundreds of stalls, selling everything from vintage and antique finds to garden furniture and flowers filled the marquees and gardens at the eventâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 10th anniversary fair. During the day guests were able to pick up one-off pieces and collectables as well as sit out on the lawns and enjoy views across the Weald.

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23/06/2015 10:01

www.bustersfarmproduce.co.uk

01580 882020 www.featherswildbirdcare.co.uk

01580 880803

Everything for your Garden Birds

Fun for all the family!

LDISPLA.Y BEER&BBQ Saturday 18th July IOam - Spm FREE ENTRY! Ample Parking

Why not join Allan, Joe and Roger for a day out to Parsonage Farm. "Owls About Town" will give you the opportunity to see and possibly handle these beautiful birds of the night. A super BBQ selection laid on by "Jolly Roger" all washed down with a cool glass of beer or a refreshing Pimm's. Tea, coffee, cake and ice cream, a bouncy castle for the little ones, with tombolas for the big and little ones. Hawke and Vanguard Optics, Rye Harbour Nature Reserve and the RSPB will also have stands ... Fun, food and frivolity.

A super day out for all the family!

Parsonage Farm, Salehurst, East Sussex, TN32 5PJ !

Hastings

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Find us next to Salehurst Church, just a minute from the Robertsbridge roundabout on the A21.

22/06/2015 15:17

EVENT

SO

SOCIAL BEAUTIFUL BORDERS After months of careful renovation work, Penshurst Place’s blue and yellow border was officially relaunched and reopened as part of their ‘glorious gardens’ week. The border, which was originally planted in just blue and yellow to reflect the Sidney family’s coat of arms have now been restored to their former glory by head gardener Cory Furness. Members of the public, the Sidney family and the Viscount de L’Isle and his wife were in attendance at the event, which was opened by BBC Radio Kent’s gardening expert Andy Garland.

Photos by Craig Matthews & Maryann Webster

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EVENT

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

�

PHOTOS: CRAIG MATTHEWS

An afternoon of chatting over tapas commenced when local businesses were invited to experience the new Lime Wharf cafe in Newenden.

Over 60 guests from local hotels, restaurants and tourism establishments gathered to network over a selection of menu favourites.

Luckily the sun shone, so guests were able to enjoy the outside terrace as well as learning more about the indoor space and its recent development. www.limewharfcafe.co.uk

CEDAR CELEBRATION

ROYAL RELAUNCH Over 150 guests including the new Tunbridge Wells mayor Cllr David Elliott attended the grand relaunch of the Royal Wells Hotel when it opened its doors for a special preview event. During the afternoon, guests were invited to view the new Brasserie restaurant and courtyard garden before Shepherd Neame Chief Executive Jonathan Neame made a speech and presented a cheque for £1,000 to the mayor’s chosen charity Ellnor.

PHOTOS: PIERS MORGAN

hair affair

56

New Tunbridge Wells hair salon Morgan Hodges officially opened its doors by throwing an exclusive style event in the town recently. As well as hair styling tips from one of the salon’s owners Greg Morgan, So’s own Catherine de Crevecoeur was on hand to give insider fashion advice on updating your wardrobe, improving personal style and learning how to accessorize. Guests enjoyed canapes and fizz and each left with a goody bag filled with luxury products.

To commemorate the death of Henry Buckley at the Battle of Waterloo and to celebrate the 200th birthday of the Riverhill Waterloo Cedar, which was planted in his honour, the managers of Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Edward and Sarah Rogers hosted a drinks party in the grounds. The event was attended by a lively mix of tree experts and enthusiasts, historians and horticulturalists, friends of Riverhill, as well as the Mayor of Sevenoaks Councillor Roderick Hogarth and the High Sheriff of Kent William Alexander.

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EVENT

SO

FRENCH FANCIES Those looking to add a little je nais se quoi to their homes, headed to Silcock’s Farm near Tenterden when a brocante sale was held in its grounds. The Three French Hens, three local women with a love of French finds displayed their wares in the farm’s aptly named Henhouse, which included vintage collectables for the home and garden.

“The day has been brilliant and so busy!” says one of the hen’s, Pippa Carter.

GRAND OPENING

SMOOTHIE SOUNDS

The children of Nash House, at Dulwich Prep School in Cranbrook welcomed special visitors when Viscount de L’Isle, MBE, His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Kent and his wife officially opened their new building recently. Invited guests, including alumni, current parents, governors and representatives from the contractors, Coleman and James joined the distinguished visitors to view an exhibition of archive photos, enjoy a country dancing display and tour of the new building, which houses four brand new nursery and reception classrooms.

For its first Unplugged festival, Innocent drinks pulled out all the stops when they brought a weekend of music, comedy and relaxation to Kemsing, near Sevenoaks. Guests were able to switch off all technology and enjoy live music from the likes of Norman Jay and performances from 90s fitness legend Mr Motivator, as well as indulge in outdoor spa experiences. The event, which was free, attracted 1,500 visitors and the location was only revealed days before the festival began.

Best in Show Foodies from across Kent and Sussex flocked to Chapel Down vineyard near Tenterden to sample local food and drink when they held their first Best of Kent Produce event.

The day, which took place in the marquee ahead of the vine lease weekend, saw suppliers displaying their wares, which included Kentish gin, cheese, chutneys and chocolate.

Alongside the food and drink, there were also handmade homewares and gifts available too.

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EMBARK ON AN SO ACRE MARITIME ADVENTURE!

JOIN HMS GANNET'S CREW AND LEARN SAILOR SKILLS

TAKE PART IN DOC. YARD'S SUMMER SCIENCE SESSIONS

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DOC. YARD'S 1 LIQUID SCIENCE' 1st - 31sr AUGUST

23/06/2015 09:47

CRICKET

SO

MATCH UPDATES runs. Put in to bat, we blew away the cobwebs with half centuries from stand in skipper Garry Smith, top order maestro Andy Wenman and potato farmer Matthew “Keeno” Cooke to amass a daunting 240 runs. Our bowlers were quickly into their stride and blew away the Wittersham top and middle order as they were dismissed for a paltry 90 runs within 20 overs, which made for a welcome early visit to the bar.

The summer is now officially in full swing and we should expect a full July

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

fixture list to come to fruition.

CAPEL One of our most popular fixtures is the

BELLS YEW GREEN

a couple of games lost to the weather.

20/20 evening match on Matfield’s

In one of our recent matches we played

We continue to progress with building

picturesque ground, but foul weather in

Spencer, a team from London. They won

kids’ cricket on Monday nights and on

the morning threw this year’s game into

the toss and put BYG in to bat on a very

June 28 we had our main fundraiser –

doubt. Happily rain clouds rolled away

green wicket in grey, drizzly weather.

the inaugural Hadlow Country Fair.

to allow Capel’s openers to paddle their way to a soggy wicket. Only Jake

The top order batsmen battled with an erratic wicket and a tight bowling

KEMSING

Cheesman (36), Rocky Grice (14) and

attack, but failed to push on beyond the

Kemsing Cricket Club’s league season

match captain (and wicket keeper) Jon

teens. Sarah Martins came in at five and

started with a game against local rivals

Stronell (12) made double figures and

smashed Spencer’s second change

(and good friends) Locksbottom CC,

Capel finished their allotted 20 overs

bowlers for a quick 46, partnered for the

who were runners up to Kemsing last

with 87 for eight.

most part by Shottie Hopkins. The lower

year. Our motto is ‘bat first’ and so we

order continued to push on and bat out

did, scoring a very handy 242-4 on a

Barrett, put 34 on the board, dampening

the 40 overs to make the score 124 for

slow, damp wicket. Grahame Wood hit

Capel’s optimism, as skies darkened

nine. Spencers’ batting attack started

an aggressive 139 and with support

Matfield’s innings were brought to an

tentatively, getting battered by an

from Derek Usher, put on 162 for the

end at 83 for 9 in 20 overs, giving Capel

increasingly erratic track. After an early

first wicket.

a victory by the narrow, but decisive,

wicket though, the game began to turn.

Locksbottom’s reply faltered

Matfield’s No.3 batsman, Jamie

margin of four runs. Like the Battle of

We contained the better batsmen and

immediately as Kemsing were

Waterloo almost exactly 200 years ago it

imposed ourselves upon the game. The

completely in control by the time the

was ‘a close run thing’, and given the

sheer desire to win and dogged

opening bowlers had finished their

wet conditions perhaps both teams

determination ultimately brought Bells

spells! The end result was Locksbottom

should have been wearing wellingtons!

Yew Green their first win of the season

CC 172 all out. Not a bad start!

after Spencer were all out for 96.

After four games we’ve got 80 points

STONE-IN-OXNEY

and still 13 points clear of 2nd place!

We had a great win in our first Kent

HADLOW

There is a long way to go, but a great

Village Division I game at newly

The season so far has been mixed – just

start to the season…

promoted Holborough Anchorians.

Captain Stuart Earle put Holborough in

like the weather we’ve blown hot and cold. The Saturday first X1 sit towards

NEWENDEN

to bat first on a green wicket and Stone

the bottom of Division 1 with one win

Following an agonising defeat to

bowled them out for 114. Top bowling

from four games, whilst the 2nd X1

Northiam, we were eager to redeem

from opener Jay Parker and Pat

secured a much needed win against

ourselves and hit back with the next

Watsham in particular with three

Shoreham on Saturday to move into mid

home game against Wittersham. Never

wickets each. Stone then knocked off

table of Division 7 of The Kent County

renowned as being one of the season’s

the runs in the 24th over with the loss

Village League. The Sunday team has

toughest fixtures, they suffered the

of four wickets with useful runs from

enjoyed more success but has also had

backlash from our previous defeat and

Luke Mangold and Angus Walker who

the worst of the early season rain, with

we wound up winning the game by 150

both made 30.

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SO

LIFE & STYLE

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

what about the kids What About The Kids is a new local company that provides hire of stylish and high quality toys, games and furniture specifically to keep kids entertained at weddings, birthdays and other parties, allowing the grown-up guests to relax and truly enjoy the event. Toys are ordered online, to include delivery and collection. The range includes tepees, dressing up, easels, scooters and much more. What About The Kids was founded by Ellie, based in Tunbridge Wells, whilst on maternity leave from her job in the City, to attempt to address her own work life balance and the needs of two small children.

For more information, visit www.whataboutthekids.co.uk

FORGOTTEN FIELDS FESTIVAL

From the minds behind the multi-award winning Kendal Calling, Forgotten Fields on August 7 to 9 is set to offer an eclectic range of music, performance and cuisine within the picturesque surroundings of the Eridge Deer Park. Boasting intimate performances from Super Furry Animals, De La Soul, Basement Jaxx, The Levellers and Public Service Broadcasting, festival-goers will be treated to a line-up incorporating renowned acts alongside the best in upcoming talent. Away from the stage, festival-goers will have their palates tickled by a diverse range of world food and real ales, while the Late Night Cinema will be screening classic films to enjoy under the night sky.

Eridge Park, Eridge Green, East Sussex TN3 9JT www.forgottenfields.co.uk

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

SO

FASHION CARPETS

Fashion Carpets is Royal Tunbridge Wells’ premier supplier of high quality floor covering. We are a long established family-run business and have built an unrivalled reputation for providing a truly personal service. At Fashion Carpets you will find one of the largest selections of quality carpets, quick step laminates, Amtico and structured wood from Woodpecker, all at lower prices during our sale period. We promise to help you make the right choice to suit your home and your budget, with professional fitting and advice. Please telephone for a free measure and estimate. Appointments for home selection are available.

42 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN11 1XF 01892 528 676 www.fashioncarpets.co.uk

50% OFF

flying fish properties A family-run independent estate agency driven by committed and capable professionals, this agency will offer clients a truly bespoke and friendly service. Flying Fish aims to deliver exceptional customer care and a service tailored to individual clients’ needs so that properties sell or let in record times and at the best possible price. SO readers get an introductory 50% reduction on selling fees for the month of July, subject to terms and conditions. If you need your property to fly, book a free, no obligation valuation.

55 London Road, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 0PB 01892 514 189 www.flyingfishproperties.co.uk

DESIGNER EYE OUTLET Designer EYE Outlet is a new optical boutique based in Ely Court at Royal Victoria Place Shopping Centre in Tunbridge Wells. Official stockist of many premium designer brands, not normally found on the high street, this unique store aims to give customers easy access to the very latest in optical fashion. Offering a full range of prescription services for both sunglasses and frames, and happy to help customers who would like to be more adventurous by undertaking bespoke works, alongside a full repairs service, this really is the one-stop-shop for all things optical! So, if you are wanting to update your look for summer, visit the store to view the new 2015 spring summer collections for Tom Ford, Chopard, Balenciaga, Emilio Pucci, Zegna Couture, Ermenegildo Zegna, Roberto Cavalli, Escada and many more – designer EYE outlet very much look forward to welcoming you to the store.

6 Ely Court, Royal Victoria Place Shopping Centre, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2SP 01892 580 030

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YOURS TO EXPLORE

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23/06/2015 10:34

Are you fed up with hiding your legs in the summer?

Are you suffering from painful or unsightly varicose veins?

The Spire Tunbridge Wells Hospital offers minimally invasive varicose vein treatment performed under

The Vein Clinic is open on Monday mornings led by

local anaesthetic with no scarring and same day return to normal activities and work.

Your initial consultation will include a Doplar

Treatments we offer:

• Endovenous ablation • Radiofrequency ablation (VNUS Closure) • Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) • Sclerothera py

Consultant Vascular Surgeon; Mr Waleed Edrees.

ultrasound scan if needed .

To find out more information or to book an appointment, please contact the Private Patient Adviser on

01892 741150 i nfo@spi retu n bridgewel ls.corn www.spiretu n bridgewel ls.corn

~

Spire Tunbridge Wells Hospital

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22/06/2015 15:17

Live life to the full

If gynaecological symptoms are disrupting the quality of your life, there's no need to suffer in silence. Consultants at The Wells Suite can provide diagnosis, advice and treatment for a wide range of conditions, including: Heavy or painful periods Prolonged or irregular periods Bleeding between periods Pelvic pain Urine leakage and frequency Menopause and PMS problems Pain during sexual intercourse Whether you choose to use medical insurance or pay yourself, it is reassuring to know expert help is close at hand. To discuss your symptoms in confidence with a specialist consultant, you can call us directly to arrange an appointment (evenings are available) or ask your GP to refer you to The Wells Suite at The Tunbridge Wells Hospital.

The Wells Suite

The Wells Suite Your health in safe hands

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01892 635888

www.thewellssuite.co.uk

22/06/2015 15:18

ADVERTORIAL

SO

WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY: THE WAY FORWARD? If you or someone you know is suffering from weight problems, it might be worth exploring a gastric sleeve procedure. Ahmed Hamouda, consultant bariatric and upper GI surgeon at Nuffield Health in Tunbridge Wells, explains the benefits of this increasingly popular weight loss treatment

Y

ou have probably heard about or know someone who has had

adjustments are required, which can sometimes delay weight loss with a

keyhole surgery through one single incision rather than the four to five incisions required

a gastric band or a bypass; but

gastric band. On the other hand,

for traditional keyhole surgery. This is possible

what is a gastric sleeve? It is

the nutritional defects of a gastric

if the incision is made larger, usually hidden in

considered by many to combine

bypass are avoided because food

the belly button, to accommodate a camera

the advantages of both band and

will travel in exactly the same way

and two special instruments, which are used

bypass procedures.

Weight loss surgery has become

as before, albeit in smaller quantities. A sleeve gastrectomy leads

to carry out the whole procedure.

There are likely to be further developments

the most effective weight loss intervention

to loss of 50 to 70% of the excess weight

in the near future, which will simplify the way

that is currently available to treat obesity.

carried by the individual and, in some cases,

we do surgery. If you are thinking of having

Over the past few years, two developments,

even more. The effect is sustained over a

weight loss surgery, it is very important to

namely keyhole surgery and a solid safety

period of time, however some slight stretch

discuss all aspects of the surgery and your

record, have made this surgery an appealing

of the sleeve is expected, but never to the

expectations with the team well in advance.

way to treat weight problems. One could

original volume.

There is never a need to rush anything and

The procedure was first performed

the best outcomes are achieved when your

was one of the earliest operations performed

through keyhole surgery in 2000 and has

medical history, lifestyle and needs are taken

for weight loss. The concept of an

gained popularity ever since due to its high

into consideration for a tailored approach.

implantable and adjustable ring (gastric band)

safety profile, quick recovery and good

to partition the stomach into an hourglass

outcomes. Although there is no fixed rule for

please visit www.nuffileldhealth.com/

came later.

the choice of surgery, sleeve has become

tunbridgewellshospital or

increasingly recognised as offering an

www.weightlosssurgerykent.co.uk

argue that gastric bypass in its many forms

The sleeve gastrectomy arrived much later.

The concept of the sleeve is simple: remove

alternative to gastric bypass surgery at high

a large portion of the stomach, sizing the

BMIs (40 or above), as well as an alternative

remaining part into a long sleeve that empties

to bands to avoid frequent adjustments in

naturally into the bowel as it should do.

individuals with busy lifestyles.

The advantages of this procedure are

A sleeve gastrectomy, similar to a gastric

If you require more information,

Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital Kingswood Road, Tunbridge Wells,

multiple, starting with the restrictive effect,

band, can be performed through single

Kent TN2 4UL

which is very much similar to the way a

incision keyhole surgery, which is a recent

01892 552 932

gastric band works; however, no band

and new development. It entails performing

tun.enq@nuffieldhealth.com

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CELEBRITY

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CELEBRITY

SO

POSH MEANS BUSINESS FORGET LORD SUGAR – FORMER POP STAR VICTORIA BECKHAM IS OFFICIALLY BRITAIN’S MOST SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEUR. FROM A CELEBRITY WANNABE TO A STYLE ICON WITH A MULTI MILLION POUND EMPIRE UNDER HER DESIGNER BELT – WE LOOK AT THE RISE AND RISE OF THE WORLD’S UNLIKELIEST BUSINESS BOMBSHELL

Rich, thin and married to one of the world’s hottest men – it’s perhaps no surprise that Victoria Beckham 41, inspires as much envy as she does admiration. Constantly accused of being miserable and averse to fun, the happily married mother of four has plenty to smile about, if she chooses to. Not least the £200million family fortune rumoured to be tucked away in the bank…

“I’m smiling on the inside. I feel I have a responsibility to the fashion community.”

Some critics believe that Victoria’s life so far has been one big fluke, a case of a very ordinary Essex girl who has always been in the right place at the right time – joining the UK’s first big girl group without any discernible singing talent, marrying a future football legend just as his career was taking off – and that luck has driven her extraordinary life, rather than any genuine merit. But if you want an example of a staggeringly successful business person in the 21st century, you’d have to go a long way to eclipse the brains behind Brand Beckham.

“I’m very realistic. I know my boundaries – I know what I’m good at and what I’m not good at.”

Victoria enjoyed a comfortable upbringing in Hertfordshire, thanks to the hard work of her parents who founded their own successful electronics wholesale business. Perhaps she inherited her confidence in life’s possibilities from her family – either way, when she saw the film Fame as a child, Victoria decided that a less than outstanding voice should be no barrier to a career in music.

“I want my kids to have a good work ethic. I believe you can achieve anything if you work hard enough to get it.”

After a few years at theatre school and a spell in a little known group called Persuasion, Victoria answered an advert in The Stage that called for extrovert girls who could sing. Some would argue that the advertiser was more concerned with the former quality than the latter – only one of the five Spice Girls, Melanie Chisholm, has managed to pursue a long-term singing career since the group split – but Victoria evidently met their criteria. In 1996, the

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CELEBRITY

Spice Girls were launched upon the world

name. No doubt aware that her marriage

With the Spice Girls behind her and one

with their debut single Wannabe and the

of the world’s highest paid footballers on

to David Beckham and their jet-setting

rest is pop history. To cut a not very long

her arm, Victoria could look forward to a

lifestyle gave her greater curiosity value than

story short, the Spice Girls became a

life of luxury without ever working another

her Spice Girl colleagues, Victoria invited

worldwide cultural phenomenon, selling

day. But here, the entrepreneurial spirit of

the first film crew into their home in early

85million records worldwide and turning

her parents came to the fore – the Spice

2000 for the documentary, Victoria’s Secrets.

the band members into multi millionaires.

Girls and her marriage might have been

Showing a canny understanding of public

Victoria’s springboard to fame and fortune,

relations, Victoria used the show to display

but it was her own real talents that would

the ‘real Posh’ – whom many viewers found

“When I was on stage with the Spice Girls, I thought people were there to see the other four and not me.”

While some might dispute the Spice Girls’ musical credentials, Victoria’s ability

now send her career

to be surprisingly level-headed and likeable

into orbit.

– but she also consolidated her status as a bona fide celebrity by interviewing showbiz

“I want to be as famous as Persil Automatic.”

friends, such as music royalty Sir Elton John.

“I’m not materialistic. I believe in presents from the heart, like a drawing that a child does.”

to become an enormous success in a field not obviously suited to her talents spoke

From her earliest

volumes for her determination. After the

days as a pop star,

group went on an ‘indefinite hiatus’ in

Victoria’s interest in fashion has been

2000, Victoria seemed to realise pretty

apparent. Promoting a more elegant

quickly that a solo singing career would

and ladylike look than her often rowdy

when Victoria was still trying to maintain

not be her route to further riches. Over

bandmates earned her the enduring

a solo music career, with another the

the next four years, she released just four

tabloid nickname ‘Posh Spice’, so it

following year when the Beckhams

singles and by the time the Spice Girls

was no great surprise when she made

relocated to Spain due to David joining

reunited for a comeback tour in the winter

her modelling debut for designer Maria

Real Madrid. Not long afterwards, Victoria

of 2007, she had apparently dropped all

Grachvogel at London Fashion Week in

faced the biggest scandal of her life when

ambition to re-launch her music career –

2000. Roles as UK ambassador for Dolce

Rebecca Loos, David’s PA in Madrid,

famously, she was the only one of the five

& Gabbana and the face of jeans brand

claimed to have had a four-month affair

not to give a solo performance during the

Rocawear followed, but Victoria would not

with the England star. Despite rumours of

shows, deciding to stage a catwalk style

design her first garments until 2004.

fierce private rows, Victoria stood by her

Another fly-on-the-wall came in 2002

segment instead.

“I was never going to give Mariah Carey any competition.”

man and put on a well-orchestrated public With a break from the Spice Girls on

show of togetherness over the claim,

the cards, the first thing Victoria did was

which David dismissed as ‘ludicrous’.

to focus on the asset that marked her out

Today, Victoria – who maintained a

from other faded pop stars and could

dignified silence throughout the furore – is

prevent a decline into obscurity – her

a multi award winning entrepreneur and style icon. By contrast, Loos is only known for undignified reality show appearances and still talking about the alleged affair, more than a decade later.

“You’ve got to trust people. And because I am a control freak, sometimes that’s difficult for me, because I want to micromanage absolutely everything.

I can’t hand over. But I’m trying to do that more.”

 68

With the Spice Girls, Victoria sold 85million records worldwide

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CELEBRITY

SO

Having survived the scandal, Victoria clearly recognised that Brand Beckham could go from strength to strength and the couple launched the first of their fragrance line, Intimately Beckham, which featured steamy campaign images of the pair together.

When David signed to LA Galaxy in 2007, Victoria faced the biggest opportunity of her career so far – to break America. Although she had made strides into her fashion career, having designed her own line of jeans for Rock & Republic, football was relatively low profile in the States and she couldn’t rely on David’s fame to make her a household name. A deal was made with US network NBC to film six episodes about their move to introduce her to the American public, although this was later reduced to a one-

“I love fashion and that’s how I express myself.”

off special, reportedly because there was not enough material to justify a series.

Last autumn, business magazine

Unfortunately, Victoria Beckham: Coming to

Management Today ranked her as the UK’s

America turned out to be a rare misfire; the

most successful entrepreneur of 2014, after

show was slated by TV critics across the pond.

she increased her workforce from three to

However, her charm offensive in Hollywood

100 and achieved an annual turnover of

did yield some results – Victoria chalked up a

£30million in just five years.

cameo in fashion drama Ugly Betty, acted as a guest judge on Project Runway and fostered high profile friendships with A-listers such as Tom Cruise, Katie Holmes and Eva Longoria.

“I’ve been to parties in LA that are mind-blowing. I mean, quite literally mind-blowing.

People get cell phones in the party bag, that sort of thing.

Fabulous, fabulous parties.”

“First time around I felt famous, but now I feel successful. I used to wear clothes which would make me stand out and now I don’t so much, because I don’t feel I have anything to prove.”

So, to those who still dispute whether women can both dress well and be taken seriously in business, we say this – take it up

Meanwhile, Victoria finally took the plunge

with Victoria Beckham…

and launched her own fashion label in 2008.

Any commentators who saw her as a talentless novelty would soon be eating their words – within four years, she was officially the most talked about designer on Twitter at New York Fashion Week. In 2011 she won Designer Brand of the Year at the British Fashion Awards, the crowning moment in one of popular culture’s most remarkable transformations. The opening of her first boutique in Mayfair last year established Victoria Beckham as a brand that’s really here to stay.

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-

anyone for some winter sun?

•• •

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Enjoy an overnight cruise followed by 4 weeks in the sun this autumn, winter or next spring from only £539 per person Here are just a few examples of our winter sun holiday collection available for stays of a couple of weeks, a month, or even longer - it's up to you . For our full choice and more information visit

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SO

EVENT

SOCIAL SUMMER SOCIALISING Exclusive networking group the JV welcomed successful and influential business people from Kent and London to Chilstone in Tunbridge Wells for their annual midsummer party. Guests celebrated and enjoyed the beautiful setting, while being treated to English sparkling wine from Squerryes Estate of Westerham, canapés from ‘the chef’s table’ courtesy of Rosemary Shrager’s Cookery School and delicious cakes from Purple Flour. The party was organised by co-chair of the JV group and local business owner Caroline Weiss-Jones of Berwick Devoil Healthcare, while Steve Clark of Chilstone hosted the prestigious event.

Photos by Craig Matthews & David Bartholemew

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ADVERTDRIAL

Rt••

THINKING OF MOVING HOME THIS SUMMER? You've made the decision to move, found your dream home and your offer has been accepted. Feelings of excitement and apprehension set in and all you want is the whole process to end with you safely ensconced in your new home. So what steps can you take to ensure that the process will run smoothly and costly mistakes are avoided? Well, skimping on surveys and conveyancing can cost you dearly in the long run. So here are some top tips to help your move go as smoothly as possible

BY DEBORAH MILLER

have been exchanged on or before 3 December 2014, and the transaction is

1

GET YOUR MORTGAGE AGREED FIRST

For a free copy of the Kent Guide to Buying and Selling Your Home or for further advice regarding your home buying/selling experience just complete and cut out this coupon and post to the address below. Alternatively call or email us today quoting reference MBRT0104

completed on 4 December or later, you can choose whether to use the old or

Although borrowing from banks

the new rules.

and building societies has improved

There is no doubt thatthe SOLT

recently, it is not a given. So to avoid

changes will be of benefit to many

disappointment, check you can get the

home buyers. For example, under

mortgage you need before starting

the old regime, Stamp Duty Land

the process. You can get a mortgage

Tax payable on a purchase price of

agreement in principle secured

£350,000 would be £10,500 and under

first, but remember that this is an

the new regime it would be £7,500 ·

indication and not a legal agreement.

representing a saving of £3,000.

2

4

DECIDE WHETHER YOU ARE HAPPY TO RELY ON

Telephone 01892 539 379 or Email times@maxbarford.co.uk Name Address

CHOOSE YOUR CONVEYANCING SOLICITORS WITH CARE

THE MORTGAGE LENDER'S

If you take the risk of buying without

VALUATION OR DO YOU

the support and guidance of an

Tel.No

REQUIRE A FULL SURVEY.

expertly trained legal conveyancer,

Email

A lender's valuation is an assessment

you run the risk of walking into

carried out by and for the benefit of

a financial booby trap which can

the lender in order to check that the

seriously hamper your progression

property presents adequate security

up the property ladder. You should

for its loan should you default and the

also make sure you know who you

property has to be sold. However, it

are instructing and that the firm is

Max Barford & Co 16 Mount Pleasant Road Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN11QU www.maxbarford.co.uk

does not report on actual faults in the

registered with a regulatory body

fully understand what is happening

property. For many, a Home Buyer's

such as the Solicitors Regulation

at each step of the move. If you are

buildings insurance cover in place

Report, which will expose problems

Authority. There are bogus law firms

not sure, ask! One further point to

from this date.

such as damp, dry rot and subsidence,

out there who will take your money

bear in mind is that your conveyancer

With this being said and the

will not visit the property themselves,

potential risks of buying a home

consequences. Make sure you have

is adequate but if you are buying

and then close up shop which means

an older house or unusual home a

you lose the money and your dream

so should there be something you

with hidden problems amounting

full structural survey will be a wise

home. That is why it is essential that

feel uncertain about bring it to their

to thousands of pounds in potential

investment.

you get the advice and guidance you

attention and they will provide you

outgoings, why would you cut corners for the sake of a few pounds when

need every step of the way from a

with the options available in order to

knowledge of a service history, so why

known reputable law firm. They are

try to resolve the issue.

the risks a re so large?

would you run this financial risk when

there to help you avoid the pitfalls of

buying a house?

what can be a murky area.

5

REMEMBER TO ARRANGE

For your free copy of the Kent

BUILDING INSURANCE FROM

Guide to Buying and Selling

You wouldn't buy a car without the

The cheapest option may not REMEMBER TO FACTOR IN

always prove to be the best.

THE DATE OF THE EXCHANGE

THE TRUE COST OF MOVING.

Remember, this may well be the

OF CONTRACTS.

regarding your home buying/selling

Mortgage arrangement fees, survey

biggest purchase you'll make and

From exchange of contract you will be

experience contact our office today

fees, legal costs and removal costs

you want to be sure that you know

legally responsible for the structure of

and speak to one of my property

are all substantial costs of moving.

what you are buying. You should be

the property. This is often overlooked

However, the often overlooked

able to contact your conveyancer and

and can potentially have serious

team on 01892 539 379 or emai I times@max.barford.co.uk

3

Your Home or for further advice

but most expensive cost is Stamp

n which varies

Duty Land Tax (SDL

dependent on the value of the property purchased. If you purchase a property above £125,000 SOLT becomes payable. Recent changes to SOLT have been introduced to try to make the tax fairer. Under the old regime the SOLT percentage rates increased at various thresholds. Under the old rules SDLTwas payable at a single rate on the whole transaction value. From 4 December 2014, SOLT is payable on a sliding scale depending on the portion of the purchase price that falls within each rate band. Where contracts Max Barford & Co. is a trading name of Parfitt Cresswell. Parfitt Cresswell is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. No. 71480

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SO

EVENT

SOCIAL MEDICAL MATTERS The monthly Sevenoaks Chamber of Commerce networking event was held at El Matador restaurant where members heard from guest speaker Gareth Walters of Stanhope Medical about the way insurers calculate risk. New members Roland Legg Property and Can Support Services were presented with their chamber certificates.

The next event is on Wednesday July 8 10.30am at Sevenoaks Primary School.

Non members welcome for ÂŁ10. www.sevenoakschamber.co.uk Photos by NSS Photography

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19/06/2015 16:23

ADVERTDRIAL

Rt••

WHY SEPARATION AND DIVORCE CAN BE ACIVILISED AFFAIR IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING THE ANXIETY AND LOSS OF ARELATIONSHIP ENDING AND SUFFERING SLEEPLESS NIGHTS WORRYING ABOUT THE FUTURE YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

BY MAX BARFORD ALMOST 50 % of all marriages end in divorce

can be proactive and take the lead and put a

best outcome possible for you to move on

stop to the fighting, anger and hurt.

with your life. Our service is confidential,

Divorce and separation is a life changing

discreet and bespoke to you.

and for many, it can be the most traumatic

event and mistakes can be costly both

time in their lives. Months and sometimes

emotionally and financially and you must be

number of potential clients an opportunity

years are spent deciding whether to separate

prepared to invest to secure your future. To

to meet with one of my family solicitors for a

and then, when the decision has been made,

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23/06/2015 09:49

BUSINESS

SO

DECISIONS, DECISIONS...

If you’re thinking about starting your own business, there’s lots to consider and every decision, no matter how small, could have unforeseen consequences. In the world of commerce, every day presents a new opportunity, but even the most successful business people have had days they’d rather forget. Throughout history, there have been some unrivalled commercial decisions that continue to inspire every new entrepreneur – along with some howlers that should serve as a warning to the unwary. Read on as we meet some of the winners and losers in the high stakes game of business…

FIVE OF THE BEST

JEFFREY WHITE STUDIOS, INC. [1] - TIME MAGAZINE)

Some of history’s riskiest business gambles that really hit the jackpot

1914 MOTOR MANUFACTURER HENRY FORD DOUBLES HIS WORKERS’ WAGES By 1914, Henry Ford had already revolutionised industry by introducing the moving assembly line. To a large degree, he had also started to change society with his popular Model T motor car. Previously considered a luxury only available to the wealthy, Ford’s cheap and efficient manufacturing process had suddenly made motoring accessible for lower earning Americans.

However, success brought with it new challenges. Although the moving assembly line had enabled Ford to double production without increasing his workforce, staff turnover was now incredibly high – at an annual rate of 370%, in fact – due to the low wages, physical demands and repetitive nature of the work.

To maintain the plant’s efficiency, Ford needed a happy and committed workforce.

Therefore, he took a decision that would make many modern day tycoons break out in a cold sweat.

He announced that he would more than double the basic daily rate of pay to $5; plus, he would cut the working day from nine hours to eight and introduce an extra shift, creating

many new jobs.

The move significantly improved the lives and morale of his staff, as they could now afford the very cars they were assembling. Men were now falling over themselves to work for Ford and, importantly, to stay.

It was no small gamble for the company, as the changes cost Ford an extra $10million dollars that year (equivalent to $240million, or £157million, today). But it certainly paid off – within 12 months, staff turnover had fallen to just 16% and productivity had risen from 40% to 70%.

By 1919, Ford had dropped the price of the Model T from around $800 to $350, making it even more affordable for working men. What at first appeared to be losses were in fact strokes of genius – Ford had created a brand new market for motor cars and in the process, made himself a billionaire.

"We believe in making 20,000 men prosperous and contented, rather than follow the plan of making a few slave drivers in our establishment millionaires."

– Henry Ford.

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SO

BUSINESS

1952 BOEING GAMBLES ITS FUTURE ON CIVILIAN JET AIR TRAVEL

During the Second World War, US company Boeing had proved its worth in the field of jet aircraft for the military with its iconic B-52 bomber, but it had not even dipped its toe into the world of commercial planes. With the conflict at an end, the American aviation industry turned its attention to civilian air travel, but few had as much faith in the fledgling market as Boeing CEO, Bill Allen.

For most of the industry, using jets for commercial planes was considered financially unviable and would lead to big losses. But, convinced that consumer air

travel was about to (excuse the pun) take off in a big way, Allen had a hunch that the speed and convenience of jet airliners would appeal to passengers and help send the travel industry into orbit.

In 1952, Allen talked the Board of Directors into investing £10.5million in developing the Boeing 707 passenger plane – with no advance orders placed and no guarantee of any future business. It was the first US transatlantic commercial jetliner and would put the States at the forefront of commercial jet manufacture. It even earned

1993 TATA STEEL DEALS WITH REDUNDANCIES IN A STAGGERINGLY GENEROUS MANNER – AND STILL SAVES MONEY Located in Jamshedpur, India, the sprawling plant run by Tata Steel was an institution of the Indian economy and a place where everyone wanted to work. Employees were guaranteed a job for life and after 25 years’ service, workers’ children were also promised a position there.

Ever since the company had been founded in 1868, life for Tata staff had been secure, predictable and reassuring.

So when, in 1993, Managing Director JJ Irani realised he had no choice but to make job cuts, he was devastated and determined to deal with the situation as humanely as possible. His solution rocked the business world and even prompted a fellow Indian industrialist to write to him, stating baldly: ‘You either have too much money or not enough brains.’

The deal was this: those who chose to take redundancy would

78

the Presidential seal of approval – every President of the United States, from Dwight D Eisenhower to George W Bush, flew in an Air Force One that was a modified version of the 707.

Over the next few years, Boeing invested a total of £120million in the 707, when in 1956 the company’s net worth had only been £97million. With Boeing now the world’s second largest defence contractor, with rockets and satellites added to its repertoire, it’s safe to say that Allen’s head wasn’t in the clouds.

continue to receive their full current salary for the rest of their working lives (with up to 50% extra for those aged over 40); if they died before the retirement age of 61, their families would continue to receive the payments until the time at which the former employee would have retired.

The business community was astounded – how could Tata make the required savings if it was still paying salaries to ex-workers? But the company had done its sums. Former employees would receive their full salary as it had been at the time of the redundancy, so it would not increase between their leaving the firm and turning 61, which could be decades; if they had remained employed, the amount would have risen with inflation, pay rises etc. Tata also no longer had to pay payroll tax or contribute to retirement plans for the former staff, so their outgoings dropped dramatically and over the next decade, the workforce plummeted from 78,000 to 47,000, without Irani having to wield the axe.

These reduced costs enabled Tata to improve its efficiency, while retaining high staff morale and the good will of the Jamshedpur community. Today, the Tata Group manages 100 operating companies across six continents and its annual revenue is around £67billion.

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BUSINESS

SO

1997

APPLE BRINGS BACK STEVE JOBS A dozen years after firing the company’s co-founder, Apple was facing a dire situation. In 1996, sales of £6.5billion had been tainted by a £335million loss and their personal computers were failing to inspire consumers. CEO Gil Amelio decided that they needed to buy a software company to revamp Apple’s operating system and he had his eye on a firm called NeXT – which had been founded by Steve Jobs after leaving Apple in 1985.

The Board of Directors was wary; after all, Jobs had been forced out due to clashes between himself (Chairman at the time) and the company’s President, John Sculley, over Apple’s direction and Jobs’ erratic management style.

After being stripped of his duties, Jobs had eventually resigned as Chairman, although in 1994 he had expressed an interest to Amelio about becoming CEO of Apple once again.

This ambition did not appear to worry

Amelio – after the acquisition of NeXT, Jobs became an informal advisor to Apple and began to regain something of his old, charismatic influence over staff. With the company still having to downsize and staff morale low, new board member Edgar Woolard was keen to see the back of Amelio. After taking advice from Jobs, Woolard persuaded the board to fire Amelio and Jobs stepped into the breach. His temporary role as CEO became permanent and in 1998, Apple’s reinvention as an iconic brand for the 21st century began with the launch of the first iMac. Jobs’ vision for creating simply designed, slick devices, combined with cutting edge technology, really took off with the release of the first iPod in 2001.

The rest, as they say, is history…

In September 2014, Apple announced quarterly net profits of $8.5billion (£5.5billion), an increase of $1billion on the same quarter in 2013.

2005

AN ARTIST CHOOSES STOCK OVER CASH AT A FLEDGLING SOCIAL MEDIA COMPANY Here’s a multimillion pound deal that was sealed not in a boardroom with hoards of lawyers present, but between two men in a start-up office – with neither one having any clue of how valuable their agreement would turn out to be.

A real-life fairy tale if ever there was one, the story of David Choe’s murals has entered into the annuals of business history.

In 2005, rising artist David Choe was hired by entrepreneur Sean Parker to paint the walls of his office in Silicon Valley, California. The premises were home to a new social media venture called Facebook, a company that did not inspire Choe with much confidence. He considered the firm’s business model to be “pointless” – so, when Parker

offered him a choice of either $60,000 (£40,000) or some company stock as payment for his work, why did he opt for the stock?

Renowned for his unconventional approach to both his work and life, Choe has never really explained the thinking behind his decision to give up his fee, for a cut of what he considered to be an unpromising fad.

But considering his stock was valued at around $200million (£130million) when Facebook went public in 2012, does it really matter?

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22/06/2015 10:37

Define yourself in three letters.

GTS. One name that declares the concentrated essence of Porsche.

Cars with increased power, enhanced specification and an amplified link to our motorsports roots.

Cars driven by individuals who always desire more.

The new 911 Carrera GTS models.

All that matters.

Find out more at porsche.co.uk/911CarreraGTS

Porsche Centre Tonbridge Brook Farm Five Oak Green Road Tonbridge TNll OQN Tel: 01732 590 119 info@porschetonbridge.co. uk www.porschetonbridge.co.uk

Fuel consumption for the 911 Carrera GTS in 1/lOOkm (mpg): urban 13. 7-12.2 (20.6-23.2), extra urban 7.5-6. 7 (37. 7-42.2), combined 9.5-8. 7 (29. 7-32.5); C0 2 emissions: 223-202 g/km. The mpg and C0 2 figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results, are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience.

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BUSINESS

SO

WHAT WERE YOU THINKING? Five of the worst decisions ever made in a boardroom

1858

INVENTOR OF THE OIL DRILL DIGS HIMSELF INTO A HOLE sustained only by charity in his last days.

Retired railway man Drake was employed by the Senaca Oil Company to investigate oil reserves in Titusville, Pennsylvania, but progress was slow as the bore holes kept collapsing. Eventually, Senaca abandoned their employee to his efforts and he was forced to draw on friends’ generosity to continue his experiments. Drake’s persistence paid off when he hit on the idea of surrounding the drill with a pipe, which prevented collapses and allowed oil to be drawn off at the surface.

So began the industry that would make America a vastly wealthy country – but poor Drake had no head for business and he failed to patent his oil drill. It was freely copied by the other new oil companies springing up and, after losing all his savings in speculation in 1863, Drake was left destitute.

In gratitude for the work that founded an industry, the state of Pennsylvania granted Drake an annuity of $1,500 (the equivalent of £23,000 today) for the last eight years of his life.

OHIO DEPARTMENT FOR NATURAL RESOURCES

David and Charles Koch are among the richest men in America. Worth around £27billion each, they are staggeringly wealthy and they made their money in the oil industry.

However, spare a thought for Edwin Drake, without whom the Koch brothers – and many like them – would not be where they are today. For Drake invented the oil drill in 1858, making it possible to extract oil from the US’s huge reserves at last and helping to get a multi billion dollar industry off the ground. Yet he was to end up in poverty,

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BUSINESS

1876

WESTERN UNION HANGS UP ON THE TELEPHONE “Don’t call us, we’ll call you” – that was the response of US communications company Western Union when offered the patent for the telephone. At the time the firm’s President, William Orten, was very happy with Western Union’s thriving monopoly on the telegraph. He was unimpressed with Alexander Graham Bell’s new invention, so he responded with feeling when offered the chance to snap up the patent for $100,000 (the equivalent of around £1.3million today). ”After careful consideration of your invention, while it is a very interesting novelty, we have come to the conclusion that it has no commercial possibilities,” he told Bell. “What use could this company make of an electrical toy?”

Within a couple of years, Orten realised the magnitude of his folly and spent some time attempting to challenge Bell’s patents, on behalf of Elisha Gray who also claimed to have invented the telephone. The lawsuits were unsuccessful and as the new ‘toy’ eclipsed the telegraph, Western Union was forced to simply watch the telephone industry take off while they focused on money transfers instead.

1975

KODAK FAIL TO SEE THE ADVANTAGES OF GOING DIGITAL By 2020, the global market for digital camera sales is expected to be worth around £13billion.

Sadly, Kodak – the iconic brand that played a huge role in bringing photography to the masses – will see very little, if any, share of that vast market. What must make this even more galling is the fact that Kodak actually invented digital photography.

In 1975, one of the company’s engineers created a digital camera that took pictures with 10,000 pixels. Afraid that the new technology would destroy their dominant film-based brand, the firm shelved the device.

Kodak didn’t release its first digital camera until 20 years later and although this pre-empted most other companies’ offerings, Kodak was too slow to capitalise and was soon outpaced by other camera brands.

The mistakes didn’t stop

82

there, however. In 2001, Kodak was the first to explore the idea of photo-sharing, by launching the world’s first WiFi enabled camera. Again, though, it didn’t understand just how huge photo-sharing would become and when initial sales were poor, the company dropped the line – only to be left standing as photo-sharing apps went stellar over the next decade or so.

Finally, Kodak attempted to recoup lost business by investing its energies in home photo printers and digital frames. They soon learned that consumers were printing fewer pictures, rather than more and when efficient web-based companies started quickly turning around prints for pennies, interest in expensive and time-consuming home printing soon dropped off.

In 2012, Kodak went bankrupt and the picture has been pretty bleak ever since.

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BUSINESS

SO

1999

SEARCH ENGINE COMPANY DECIDES NOT TO GAMBLE ON GOOGLE

1977

FILM BOSSES UNDERESTIMATE THE APPEAL OF A NEW MOVIE FRANCHISE Who would want to buy T-shirts and pencil cases with pictures of weird aliens and gold robots on? This was the thinking of executives at entertainment company 20th Century Fox, when they took on a script by little-known writer and director, George Lucas. Nobody, they figured – so it was probably with no little satisfaction that they docked $350,000 from Lucas’ pay cheque in exchange for all future merchandising rights for his quirky sci fi film.

They probably became a little nervous when Star Wars surpassed the box office record set by Jaws just two years earlier, to become the world’s highest grossing film at the time with global takings of £510million. By the time the sixth film, Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith (the third of the prequels) was released in 2005, the series had attracted a total box office revenue of £2.9billion.

And the public’s enthusiasm for Lucas’ outer space creations didn’t stop at the cinemas…

By 2012, it was estimated that Lucas had pocketed a neat $3.3billion (£2.2billion) net from the Star Wars series, the majority of which was generated by merchandising. That same year, The Walt Disney Company bought Lucasfilm for a cool $4billion (£2.6billion). That’s an awful lot of pencil cases.

Sixteen years ago, the dot.com boom was still, well, booming and search engine company Excite was at the forefront of the internet revolution. Young upstarts Larry Page and Sergey Brin thought that the company might be interested in their search engine Google, which they had developed as part of their PhD course but was now taking up too much of their time.

Keen to return to their studies, they offered Google to Excite’s CEO George Bell for $1million (the equivalent of just over £1million today), but Bell declined. One of Excite’s venture capitalists evidently thought there was mileage in Google, as he negotiated Page and Brin down to $750,000, but Bell was reportedly so incensed by his colleague’s actions that he threw him out of the office.

Today, Page and Brin are probably quite grateful for Bell’s short-sightedness. Now believed to be the world’s most visited web page, Google is worth around £120billion.

In contrast, Excite was acquired by Ask Jeeves (now Ask.com) in 2004 and the new owner failed to make good on a promise to get excited about rejuvenating the Excite brand.

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22/06/2015 10:40

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23/06/2015 09:50

BUSINESS PROFILE

SO

HOW I MADE IT If you’ve been inspired by our stories of entrepreneurial endeavour, you’ll want some tips on how to make your own business take off. We speak to Lorenzo Colangelo, owner of The Gallery hair and beauty salon in Southborough, to find out more about his journey to success

Monk, who are both involved heavily in the day to day running of the salon.

These great people, mixed with a growing ambitious and loyal staff, are the magic of The Gallery.  What was the biggest lesson you learned?

To not be afraid of big decisions and to have a shared vision moving forward.

“Teach your team well enough that they can work anywhere, but treat them well enough that they never want to leave” is a great quote from Richard Branson.

 Tell us about your company.

The Gallery is a hair and beauty salon that was founded by Toni Colangelo in 1982 and taken over by me in 1995, when I re-branded and named it The Gallery.  Why did you decide to run your own business?

I took over the salon as I had a hunger and desire to offer customers something different – not just great hairdressing and beauty, but to provide the service in a family run environment that offered time and a more personal approach. Some of our customers have been coming to the salon since the start.  What, if any, support did you have in getting started at The Gallery?

When I did our first re-fit I used the bank to support me financially. It was a lot easier to borrow money then, as the bank manager was more of a friendly uncle who listened and had the power to make instant decisions, although the interest rates were considerably higher back then.

 What were the biggest challenges you faced?

The challenges have always been around cash and people – having the money to move forward and the right people to do it with. Trying to keep high standards in our products and service, while staying competitive in price, is a challenge for any business. I have found the key is to not over-extend financially and to build a team from scratch who have an overall shared vision moving forward.  Describe your most satisfying moment or achievement.

Without doubt, winning Salon of the Year in the National British Hairdressing Business Awards 2014. It was a huge team effort that focused on business, team and most importantly, customers.

Every person associated with The Gallery had a huge role to play and they all delivered fantastically. Key staff are Mario Failla, who takes control of education and is our Creative Director, Becki Partlett who is Front of House Manager, and Jo Ashdown and Richard

 If you could give aspiring entrepreneurs one piece of advice, what would it be?

Have the courage to see your vision realised, but have the humility to listen and take advice from those who may know better.  What could the Government or local authority do to help start-up businesses?

I would love to see them encouraging new businesses and budding entrepreneurs with workshops and potential financial backing, similar to the student loan model. Historically, Great Britain was made great by captains of industry and this is a huge strength that should be nurtured from conceptual stages. As a businessman and entrepreneur, I believe that being in control of your own destiny is such a gift and privilege. If there was an element of ‘hand holding’ from business mentors in the early stages especially, we would see some amazing things – not least, seeing Britain become Great again.

63-67 London Road, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 0PA 01892 514 900 www.thegalleryhairandbeauty.co.uk

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23/06/2015 11:52

BUSINESS PROFILE

SO

HOW I MADE IT Here we profile another local entrepreneur who has made their dream a reality – meet Shereen Powis, Proprietor of Dress Dreams in Sevenoaks What, if any, support did you have in getting it off the ground?

My husband, who is a lawyer and business consultant, assisted me with the set-up. I got a business start-up loan from HSBC Bank. Sevenoaks Chamber of Commerce have also been very supportive.

What were the biggest challenges you faced?

Securing the commercial property lease in a highly competitive market, negotiating and agreeing supplier rates and getting to grips with the differing rates of import duty and tax.

RICHARD REED PHOTOGRAPHY

Describe your most satisfying moment or achievement.

My first sale to a bride – it’s very rewarding to see the joy a perfect dress brings. Positive feedback from customers and celebrity clients too!

What does your company do?

At Dress Dreams our aim is to assist women in finding the dress of their dreams and to enjoy this experience in a relaxed and luxurious environment.

We sell beautiful wedding dresses, cocktail and ceremony gowns from celebrated international designers from all over the globe. We are an appointment business and each customer has a consultation with a stylist, who will give her undivided attention and honest opinion while the client enjoys a glass of Champagne or a cup of tea or coffee. We also sell bridal veils, accessories, jewellery and shoes.

Among our bridal collections we have Israeli Haute designer Riki Dalal, a brand that is exclusive to five stores in the UK. We have the Platinum collection by Demetrios, stocked by 10 of the best boutiques in the country. Our Pronovias cocktail gowns from Barcelona are exclusive to us in Kent. Our Gribha International ceremony gowns from

Paris are exclusive to us in the UK, while our Eleni Elias cocktail gowns from Milan are stocked by only three stores in the country. We look forward to welcoming three new bridal collections in October.

We also have designer weekends and trunk shows regularly throughout the year, showcasing stock from our designers that we would not normally have in store. Brides can enjoy discounts during these weekends, with incentives from local florists and photographers with whom we work closely.

Why did you decide to start your own business?

I was a self-employed dancer working all over the world for 14 years in theatre, film, TV and entertainment, but I grew up in the fashion and clothing manufacturing industry. I’ve always been surrounded by clothes and costumes, but I fell in love with the bridal industry when I was looking for my own wedding dress.

What was the biggest lesson you learned?

I never thought as an ex-professional dancer that I would learn how to use Polyfila, sand and paint walls. On the business front I have learned that keeping on top of the finances is of paramount importance.

If you could give aspiring entrepreneurs one piece of advice, what would it be?

Never give up. Strive to be the best in your field and offer something your competitors don’t. Care about your customers.

What could the Government or local authority do to help start-up businesses?

They could give small business rate relief before opening – while the shop was being renovated full rates had to be paid, which was costly.

12 Tubs Hill Parade, London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1DH 01732 667 377 www.dressdreams.co.uk

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23/06/2015 15:09

Untitled-13 1

23/06/2015 16:04

EVENT

SO

SOCIAL GROOMBRIDGE GATHERING West Kent Networking held its monthly meeting at Groombridge Place this month and were joined by the Mayor for Tunbridge Wells, Councillor David Elliott, and the Mayoress June Crowhurst.

Members were treated to canapés from Groombridge Place’s licensed café and restaurant before taking a tour of the stunning gardens. “I’ve had such an enjoyable evening meeting so many interesting people,” says the mayor. His wife enjoyed the meeting so much she has booked to attend August’s gathering.

Photos by Tina Chatfield

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19/06/2015 16:24

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www.bsrb.co.uk Untitled-1 2

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22/06/2015 15:20

BUSINESS

SO

BUSINESS NEWS OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE LOCAL BUSINESS WORLD

Loch Down

Times are changing for a Tunbridge Wells employment law firm. As part of the creation of the Loch Associates Group, the former Loch Associates Employment Lawyers has been rebranded to Loch Employment Law. The firm, founded in 2007 by Managing Director Pam Loch, will deliver the same level of employment law advice, but with a fresh identity and new website. Pam says: “We hope you will agree that our new name and new identity as part of the Loch Associates Group… demonstrates how we fit together to meet all our clients’ needs in employment law.” www.lochlaw.co.uk

litter victory Tunbridge Wells McDonald’s volunteers have joined forces with the Kent High Weald Partnership to tackle the town’s litter. Also teaming up with Keep Britain Tidy and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, McDonald’s Franchisee Mahbod Mohammadi and crew from the Tunbridge Wells restaurant set out to clean up Sherwood Lake, improve access and bring woodland under good management. The restaurant will continue to support the lake by supplying bins, which will be maintained on a twiceweekly basis. Former Mayor of TWBC, Julian Stanyer, says: “It’s great to see the McDonald’s team making such a big difference to the Sherwood Lakes area.”

NEW ARRIVALS

KENT VISIT

MANU PALOMEQUE

The great and the good from the UK’s tourism industry visited a Wealden business as part of the Tourism Symposium 2015. The Symposium, organised by the Tourism Society and hosted by Visit Kent at Ashford’s Eastwell Manor, attracted over 240 leading industry professionals, speakers and operators for two days of networking, debate and presentations. Speakers included local celebrity chef, Rosemary Shrager, while delegates embarked on afternoon tours to Chapel Down Winery in Tenterden. Sandra Matthews-Marsh MBE, Chairman of the Tourism Society and Chief Executive of Visit Kent, says: “We are delighted to have hosted such a lively and thought-provoking Symposium here in Kent.” www.visitkent.co.uk

A local law firm has expanded its Tunbridge Wells and Cranbrook teams. Buss Murton, which has offices on Church Road and Cranbrook High Street, promoted Alex Smith (top) to Practice Manager in Tunbridge Wells, while Therese Waterson (middle) has come aboard as Marketing Manager, overseeing the marketing activities for all of the firm’s branches. At the Cranbrook office, solicitor Julie Taylor (bottom) will now be offering family and employment law advice.

Partner Andrew Linton says: “Our mission has always been to provide a high level of expertise and develop personal relationships with our clients on a local level.” www.bussmurton.co.uk

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SUMMER

SURVIVING THE SUMMER

So, the kids will soon be breaking up from school and you’ll be spending lots of quality time together over the coming weeks – but how do you keep the family happy all summer long? Here are some great ideas for keeping boredom at bay this holiday, whatever your budget

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SUMMER

Hit the tourist trail Here in the Weald, we’re blessed with a rich and colourful history, many relics of which can still be visited today. From the beautiful stately homes of Penshurst Place and Ightham Mote, to the historic atmosphere of Hever Castle, you can bring the past to life for your children with a fun family visit.

Most heritage attractions now have child-friendly activities or other ways to help young visitors engage with the site’s story, so a day out at a National Trust, English Heritage or independently owned landmark can be both entertaining and educational for all the family.

Wild animal parks and theme parks are perfect for children and give you the chance to confront your fears – whether that’s rollercoasters or creepy crawlies. Keep your eyes open for family tickets and special deals, so you have more spare cash to spend on ice creams.

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way for everyone to keep in shape, while sibling rivalry might prompt your children to put in their best effort! Take your little monkeys to a climbing wall, challenge them to a round of golf (crazy or ‘sane’), hit the target at archery or take on the slopes at a ski centre and you might find that your child discovers a brand new talent.

Water sports are a great option in the summer and even a rainy day needn’t necessarily pull the plug on your outing.

The skill involved in windsurfing, kayaking, waterskiing or surfing is sure to keep your child engaged and determined to succeed – best of all, with facilities like Bewl Water in the Weald, you don’t have to travel all the way to the seaside to make a splash.

Discover a sport that your child loves and you could have solved your entertainment dilemma for the rest of the summer!

School’s in Go wild in the great outdoors Letting off steam is important for youngsters, so a trip to an adventure playground or wide open space can provide a brilliant day out. If the weather has been poor lately, make good use of a fine day by hiring bikes, clambering onto an aerial assault course or putting your aspiring Lewis Hamiltons behind the wheel of a go-cart – anything that burns off energy and sends thrills down their spine will make sure they sleep well that night!

A long walk in the stunning Wealden countryside, with a tasty picnic as a reward, is also a splendid way for families to enjoy each other’s company.

Sporting life Most schools offer a good selection of sports activities, but trying something new might spark a fresh passion in your child. Playing sport together as a family is a great

If your child already has a passion for a particular sport or activity, consider enrolling them in a summer school that will give them a chance to develop their talents.

Spending a week or more working intensively on their football skills, acting technique, singing ability or bushcraft survival knowledge will provide great memories for them, while giving parents a well-earned breather…

Fair enough No British summertime would be complete without a village fair and in our part of the world, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to picturesque greens. Most community fetes and festivals will feature children’s entertainment of some kind and provide a great chance for a more traditional day out. The Kent County Show at Detling (July 10 to 12) is essentially one big country fair, with so much to enjoy, from farmyard animals to local food and drink – visitors of all ages are sure to find something captivating on site.

Get crafty If you have some artistic youngsters in your family, consider encouraging their talents at an arts and crafts workshop. Many community facilities, such as schools, colleges, libraries and museums, hold such activities during the holidays, or you might find a local artisan business that is offering a taster day or short course.

Whether your child wants to paint ceramics, learn to draw, try their hand at pottery or have a go at knitting, there’s sure to be an outlet for their creative talents.

Garden of England When you’d like your child to develop a hobby that’s educational as well as fun, it’s hard to beat gardening.

Seeing plants grow into living, recognisable organisms, often in a short space of time, is a magical experience for children of all ages. If you can get them involved in planting vegetables, the sight of their own carefully tended produce on their dinner plate won’t only fill your child with pride – it might also persuade them to eat their greens!

Whatever you get up to this holiday, have a wonderful Wealden summer.

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HE VER CASTLE & GARDENS CHILDHOOD HOME OF ANNE BOLEYN

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SUMMER SURVIVAL GUIDE Need more inspiration for a great family holiday in the Weald?

Top local attractions tell us why they’re the place to be this summer

BUCKMORE PARK KART CIRCUIT There’ll be sizzling summer fun at Buckmore Park Kart Circuit between July 24 and September 2.

Both children and adults can discover their inner racing driver at Buckmore Park this summer. There is no need to pre-book, just turn up on selected days throughout the summer and enjoy a Turn Up ‘n’ Drive karting session to see if you have what it takes! Bank Holiday Monday (August 31) is a special Family Turn Up ‘n’ Drive Day when you can drive on the circuit where Formula 1 Champions Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton learned their trade. Or if you want to beat the queues, the Friday Family Fun Prebookable sessions on July 31 and August 7, 21 and 28 are just perfect.

To find out more please visit our website or give us a call.

BODIAM BOATING STATION

Maidstone Road,

Escape to our relaxing riverside retreat, where you can have fun messing about in kayaks and rowing boats, enjoying riverside walks or trying your hand at fishing. Relax, sit back and soak up the surroundings on a tranquil cruise to the National Trust’s Bodiam Castle.

Toast marshmallows in our small, family and dog friendly campsite, with breakfast delivery service! Or charter a boat for your special occasion or school trip. Why not take advantage of our special offer and enjoy £1 off a Sunset Cruise to Rye any Saturday night until August when you mention SO magazine.

Discover the brand new Lime Wharf Café – a funky oak framed café with indoor seating for 50 people. Indulge in a lazy breakfast, sample our authentic Spanish tapas and other lunchtime delights or treat yourself to a cream tea while watching the steam trains pass by in the distance.

Grab a treat from our ice-cream parlour and let the kids kick a ball in our secure play area, while you enjoy a glass of something chilled.

Riverside Cottage, Rye Road, Newenden, Kent TN18 5PP 01797 253 838 www.bodiamboatingstation.co.uk www.limewharfcafe.co.uk

Chatham, Kent ME5 9QG 01634 661 636 www.buckmore4kids.co.uk

Hever Castle There’s fun for all the family at Hever Castle and Gardens this summ with a packed programme of events and activities.

Jousting tournaments take place on the weekends of July 18 and 19, 25 and 26, and August 8 and 9, 15 and 16, 22 and 23, and 28 to 31, when the brave Knights of Royal England return to battle it out in the jousting arena.

Spectators will be treated to exciting displays of action, stunts, falls and fights as the brave knights compete for points.

Come along and try on a suit of armour at our Medieval Weekend on July 25 and 26.

Plus, you can experience what medieval life was like at Tudor Living on August 29 to 31.

For further information please visit the website or call us.

Hever, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG 01732 865 224 www.hevercastle.co.uk

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Chiddingstone Castle, Hill Hoath Road, Chiddingstone, Edenbridge, Kent, TN8 7AD Tel: 01892 870347 chiddingstonecastle.org.uk

MILLBROOK STAPLEHURST 12th -16th August

Book online or in store now: shop.millbrookgc.co.uk 96

Ml LLB ROOK GRAVESEND 19th - 31st August

Millbrook Staplehurst

Millbrook Gravesend

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

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

01622 832299

01474 331135

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DRUSILLAS PARK Make tracks to Drusillas Park this summer and enjoy all the exciting animals, attractions and events on offer at the award winning zoo in East Sussex. There are over 100 different animal species in naturalistic environments, plus animal lovers can see some new faces following the introduction of Bactrian camels during the summer.

There’s a fun-filled diary of events that runs through the holidays too, including appearances by Hello Kitty, Peppa Pig, and Leo and Raph from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Plus don’t miss the Thomas & Friends™ train ride and Hello Kitty Secret Garden.

Alfriston, East Sussex BN26 5QS 01323 874 100

www.drusillas.co.uk

PIED PIPER CAMPS If you are looking for someone to entertain your child or for a treat for them during the long summer holidays, Pied Piper camps are where children can have safe fun and parents peace of mind.

Dulwich Preparatory School is set in the wonderful countryside of Kent, easily accessible just outside Cranbrook. The school is on a beautiful campus of 50 acres with excellent indoor and outdoor facilities, including swimming pool, sports hall, activity hall, spacious playing fields, nature reserve, adventure play areas and lovely bright, modern classrooms.

The fun starts at 9.30am (or 8.30am if you require early drop off) and the fun packed sessions run right through to 4.30pm (or 5.45pm if on late pick up).

Activity sessions last 45 minutes to ensure that children enjoy a wide range of activities (sports, games, art and imaginative play) and that there is sufficient variety in the day for all weathers, come rain or shine.

Dulwich Preparatory School, Coursehorn, Golford Road, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3NP 01273 504 485 www.piedpiperactivities.co.uk

Chiddingstone Castle Nestled in unspoilt countryside, historic Chiddingstone Castle offers a memorable day out throughout the summer months. Originally dating from Tudor times, the former home of the late antiquarian Denys Eyre Bower now houses his fascinating Egyptian, Buddhist, Jacobean, Stuart and Japanese collections, including incredible Samurai armour and swords, and treasures from ancient Egypt. Discover Victorian ‘upstairs downstairs’ rooms and take a stroll in the 35 acres of beautiful grounds, complete with a lake, rose garden, woodland and remarkable Grade II listed orangery. The delightful, cosy tearoom, with its sheltered, sunny courtyard, serves scrumptious cream teas and light lunches on traditional vintage china.

Don’t miss our Summer Vintage Fair on Sunday August 2 and the Country Fair on Sunday September 13.

Chiddingstone Castle is open from 11am to 5pm, Sunday to Wednesday, until October. Admission: adults £9, children (aged five to 13) £4, underfives free, families £23.50.

Hill Hoath Road, Chiddingstone, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7AD 01892 870 347

www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk

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MARTIN HAVENS

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

MILLBROOK GARDEN CENTRES

KNOLE To celebrate Knole’s rich literary history, we will be hosting a summer season of exciting book-inspired events, from talks and concerts to bookbinding and poetry workshops.

Our ‘Deer Diary’ poetry workshops for children will use Knole’s beautiful medieval deer park as a setting, while young poet Ella Frears guides children to write stories from a deer’s point of view. ‘Sevenspoaks’ is led by the brilliant Canterbury Poet Laureate and poet educator Dan Simpson. Local young people are invited to join us at Knole for a week in the summer holidays (Monday July 27 to Friday July 31) to learn how to create written, spoken and performance poetry. For more information visit our website.

Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0RP 01732 462 100

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole

Riverhill Himalayan Gardens Plan a great family day out in the most imaginative garden to visit in Kent. Discover world class British sculpture and learn about Riverhill’s fascinating history, with its links to Darwin and the Great Plant Hunters. Build dens together, discover secret pathways and incredible views and perhaps even spot the elusive Yeti! Events for all ages will be running throughout July and August, including creating your own wild head crowns, junior first aiders, peg dollies and stick men, painting, scavenger hunts, library evenings and face painting – plus much more! For a full list of events over the summer, please visit our website.

Riverhill, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0RR 01732 459 777 www.riverhillgardens.co.uk

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Circus lovers in Kent will be pleased to hear that Paulos Circus will be performing at Millbrook Garden Centre, Staplehurst from August 12 to 16 and at Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend from August 19 to 31.

Tickets cost just £7 each and can be purchased from the Garden Centre or online at shop.millbrookgc.co.uk With the school holidays in full swing, August can be a tough time to keep the family entertained. The Paulos family have been touring with their unique style of family entertainment since 1816, making them one of the oldest circus families in the UK. Millbrook are also inviting children between the ages of four and 11 to create a picture showing their favourite circus act. A winner will be selected from the entries received from each garden centre and their winning design will be turned into a poster and put on display in the garden centre.

The two lucky winners will also win two circus tickets each. Entry forms for the poster competition can be downloaded from our website.

01622 832 299 www.millbrookgc.co.uk

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Tree of Hope

our mission is to transform the lives of sick children and empower families.

Tree of Hope offers hope to the families of sick and disabled children in the UK who need specialist medical surgery, treatment and therapy in order to free them from suffering, giving a better quality to their young lives.

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Summer holiday fun for 4-12 year olds Dulwich Prep School, Cranbrook

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CYCLING CAFE & SHOP

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C O M M E R C I A L F E AT U R E

WESTERHAM CYCLERY WESTERHAM DIRECTOR, MARK BREWER SAYS: “Westerham Cyclery came to life after a chat about what Westerham needed on a cycling trip in Italy last year. From that same conversation we had already created Westerham Cycling Club, a club that now has close to 50 members, its own club kit and four local sponsors, including Westerham Cyclery.

“Westerham had many excellent cafes, but the one thing it didn’t have was a cafe totally dedicated to the vast number of cyclists who frequent the town all through the week and at weekends – one Bank Holiday, I counted close to 50 bikes dotted around the green. When 21 The Green became available, we couldn’t believe our luck. It was perfect for our needs with room for a retail area, a bike showroom, a workshop, a café and a secure area for cyclists to park their bikes. It also had a small walled garden to the rear, which is lovely when the sun is shining. There are three partners: me, Nigel who owns the Gym and Michael who, along with me, runs Westerham Cycling Club.

“Since opening we’ve been visited by many clubs, including Eltham Velo, Big Foot, Sevenoaks Tri Club, Dulwhich Paragon and The Old Ports, to name just a few. We just offer coffee, cake, nutrition, a friendly place to relax and a pitstop, should you have any mechanical issues on your ride. Westerham Cyclery is run by cyclists for cyclists and we’re very proud of what we’ve achieved! You wouldn’t believe the number of customers who have said to me, ‘I was going to do this!’”

21 The Green, Westerham, Kent TN16 1AX 01959 561 747 www.westerhamcyclery.co.uk

GET ON YOUR BIKE Discover pedal power and enjoy the great outdoors from the saddle this summer

W

hen you live in such a stunning part of the world as the Weald, it shouldn’t take much encouragement to set you exploring our delightful area. Forget walking, though – the best way to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Kent and East Sussex is to jump on your bike and hit the highways and byways of the Wealden countryside.

Offering more flexibility than a car

CYCLE OPS TONBRIDGE OWNER, SIMON FLACK SAYS: “We offer a number of services for cyclists. Repair – this involves the replacement of worn and broken parts, due to wear or damage. This can be anything from brake pads to a whole drive chain. Sometimes it pays to upgrade rather than simply replacing with the same. We can inspect your bike and advise with no obligation – just phone or drop-in.

“Servicing – involves regular inspection of your bike to ensure it is safe and running well. Often this will involve fitting some parts, such as new brake pads and

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C O M M E R C I A L F E AT U R E

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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and greater distance potential than walking, cycling is a fantastic way to explore – while also getting you fit and healthy. Whether you want to take on hills and valleys, or simply enjoy a gentle pedal along a designated cycle route, getting on your bikes is also a wonderful activity for the family to do together. Those who don’t already own bikes can hire some for the day, giving you the chance to try it out before deciding to invest in your own.

As well as being a fun solo or family pursuit, there’s also a vibrant cycling community in Kent and East Sussex, along with plenty of local businesses that can help you to get the most out of the cycling lifestyle. From the friendly cafés aimed at cyclists, to the experts who will keep your bicycle on the road – we meet three local hotspots that should be on the ‘must visit’ list of any keen cyclist.

chains, to ensure you don’t wear other parts prematurely. Regular servicing can be cheaper than repair later. We can help you set up a suitable service schedule.

“Finally, maintenance – undertaken by yourself, regular maintenance can keep your bike in better condition, avoid costlier repair and ensure you’re safe on a day-to-day basis. We can help you with advice on cleaners and lubes, and offer one-to–one or group maintenance classes by arrangement.”

Bank Street, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1BL 01732 500 534 www.cycle-ops.co.uk

THE VELO HOUSE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS MANAGING DIRECTOR, OLLY STEVENS SAYS: “The Velo House is part of a new wave of cycling shops combining a large, award winning café, aimed at both cyclists and local people, with a road bike focused shop and workshop. We all love to ride bikes and our aim was to create a friendly, welcoming cycling hub for cyclists new and old. Along with a great range of road, city and cyclo cross bikes from £500, we offer a full workshop that can handle any type of bike and beyond, with a weekend drop-in service.

The cafe is open seven days a week serving homemade hot food, cakes and great coffee and is fully licensed.”

5 St. John’s Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 9TN 01892 554 500 www.thevelohouse.com

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ADVERTORIAL

Cycling Made Easy A new retail showroom in St John’s Road, central Tunbridge Wells, is on a mission to encourage people of all ages to discover the benefits of electric bikes

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pecialising in power-enhanced pedal bikes, they have opened a brand new

showroom full of a broad selection of e-bikes to suit all tastes. This follows the success of their flagship store in Coulsdon, Surrey, established for over four years. They have the full range of e-bikes, from folding electric bikes (from £850), to the highest specification electric mountain bikes (from £2,300). All these bikes are available for an accompanied demonstration from knowledgeable staff.

Cycling around here is tough, as the area is so hilly. However, there clearly is a need for people to cycle to overcome traffic, parking problems and escalating car costs. Having an electric bike to take

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GOING

IN PARADISE James Edgar discovers the conservation in action on a beautiful island off the coast of Mauritius

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s I clamber off the boat onto Ile aux Aigrettes, I am stepping back in time.

Surrounded by pristine turquoise water, this tiny coral island off the south east coast of Mauritius is home to some of the oldest species native to this remote paradise in the Indian Ocean.

The ill-fated dodo once roamed here, and now a team of dedicated conservationists is working hard to prevent more endangered flora and fauna from following in its footsteps. Rare giant tortoises, bats and rodents are now thriving on this perfectly round islet, just 27 hectares in size, which wallows in the warm waters of Mahebourg Bay. Shaded by resurgent ebony trees, oncethreatened creatures, including the pink pigeon and Telfair’s skink, are multiplying in numbers and tourists can now go to the island to catch a glimpse of them.

Most visitors to Mauritius are understandably drawn to its stunning beaches, luxurious accommodation and glorious weather, and many explore no further than the confines of their hotel. But this tropical utopia has so much to offer the more adventurous visitor.

Ile aux Aigrettes is a jewel in the crown of the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF), who are rightly proud of their achievements.

Since 1987, the non-governmental organisation has been concentrating on returning the island to the “natural museum” of endemic species of animals and plants that it was before humans disturbed the delicate ecosystem more than 400 years ago.

I take an eco-tour of the islet with a trained ranger, which lasts around two hours at a relaxed pace.

My guide takes time to explain to my group all about the species and what is being done to make sure they continue to prosper. The MWF released 20 Aldabra tortoises on Ile aux Aigrettes in 2000, as part of ongoing restoration work on the island. By 2004, they were allowed to roam completely free. The aim was that the tortoises would eat the ebony fruit and disperse the seeds around the island in their droppings, naturally encouraging growth of the rare trees.

My guide says the strategy has been a success, not just because ebony trees are being spread across the island, but also that they have been found to germinate more successfully, because they have passed through the tortoises’ droppings. The magnificent animals are also breeding on the island and tiny babies are regularly taken from Ile aux Aigrettes to the Gerald Durrell Endemic Wildlife Sanctuary

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View of Mauritius from Ile aux Aigrettes

PA PHOTO / JAMES EDGAR

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

To get a feel for the historic city and for one of the best views, it is well worth trekking up to the citadel. From there, you can see the famous racecourse of Port Louis – still one of the most popular activities for Mauritians – and the docks from which huge amounts of sugar and fish are shipped around the world each year.

During my trip to Mauritius, I find the island’s luxurious pursuits can be balanced perfectly with opportunities to explore its rich and diverse wildlife. With a small amount of adventurous spirit, you can encounter rare and stunning animals, learn about fascinating conservation projects and hike in pristine nature reserves – that is if you can peel yourself away from the beach.

PA PHOTO / THE RESIDENCE

FACTS

� James Edgar was a guest

of The Residence Mauritius (www.cenizaro.com/theresidence/ Mauritius) who offers rooms from £143 per night on a half-board basis.

� Air Mauritius flies up to four times a week direct from London Heathrow to Mauritius, prices start at £700 for a return economy class flight (www.airmauritius.com).

� Visit www.mauritian-wildlife.org and www.ile-aux-aigrettes.com for further information.

PA PHOTO / THE RESIDENCE

(GDEWS) in the south west region of Mauritius, where they are reared until their release back into the wild.

The MWF works closely with local and international partners – including Chester Zoo in the UK – with the long-term aim of recreating lost ecosystems by saving some of the rarest species from extinction and restoring the native forest. They also work hard to raise awareness about conservation issues through their education programme.

As well as working on Ile aux Aigrettes, the MWF have projects on Round Island to the north of Mauritius and Rodrigues, an island some 350 miles to the east. I find the experience to be both fascinating and exhilarating, and it’s comforting to know that by visiting the island, I am contributing towards this special project.

The hotel where I am staying, The Residence, has a partnership with the MWF in which guests are able to make donations to the charity. Regular tours are arranged and it takes just 45 minutes to reach the coralline limestone haven.

Once I return to The Residence, which is inspired by turn-of-the-century plantation houses, I can be as adventurous or as lazy as I please. From windsurfing to water skiing, the hotel has all kinds of complimentary water sports for when you want a change of scenery from its pristine secluded beach.

In just one minute’s speedboat ride from the shore, I arrive at the coral reef which stretches along this part of the east coast of Mauritius. The water may only be two or three metres deep, but the marine life is breathtaking. Other free activities organised by the hotel include canoeing, glass bottom boat trips, tennis and volleyball, while scuba diving, deep sea fishing, horse riding and catamaran cruises are available at an extra cost. For children, The Residence has The Planter’s Kids Club, where youngsters between three and 12 can be looked after from 9am to 10pm.

While the kids are being taken care of, the perfect escape for mums and dads is the Sanctuary Spa. With 11 treatment rooms – one of which is set in the hotel’s tropical gardens overlooking the sea – the spa offers all kinds of therapies, from anti-ageing treatments to massages.

While many visitors to Mauritius choose to stay away from the capital, Port Louis, I am keen to go on a day trip. I travel with one of The Residence’s drivers in a comfortable 4x4 across the island, through sleepy villages and field after field of sugar cane plantations – one of the main exports here.

After just 45 minutes, we arrive in a bustling melting pot of cultures.

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

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GARDENS

SO

Glorious Gardens This month Emma Davies, who runs the Walled Nursery in Hawkhurst with her husband Monty, sheds light on beautiful biennials Hesperis

A trick I learned from some of the grand

backdrop for your tulips and have the

for cutting and keep in a vase for at

gardens I have been lucky enough to

most delicious, honeyed scent. I plant

least 10 days, so they’re a really good

work in is that biennials are wonderful

mine in swathes, drifting through my

all-rounder.

plants, which provide you with the most

beds.

Lastly, a classic – Digitalis, aka

outstanding show starting as early as

There is a trick to planting Wallflowers

foxgloves. We all recognise the

March and usually lasting well into

that few seem to know – my husband

common Digitalis purpurea with its

June. But what is a biennial and why

and I look forlornly at floppy specimens

large flower spikes made up of bell like

are we talking about them now?

we see planted about! They are very

individual flowers with dotted throats,

A biennial is a flowering plant that takes

shallow rooted and combined with

but there are many other more unusual

two years to complete its

growing through the winter, this means

varieties to grow. My all-time favourite

that frosts can push them up and out

biological lifecycle,

of the ground, making them

meaning it puts on

is Digitalis parviflora; the first time I saw this plant I was hooked. A more

topple over. I was always taught

compact foxglove with slender leaves

in the first year,

to plant them really deep, so I

lacking the usual furry texture, this is a

flowers in the

usually bury at least three

good plant if you don’t have enough

second and then

inches of the stem and firm in

space to accommodate the larger

dies. July is the

well. It’s a simple trick but it

foxgloves. Flower spikes reach 60cm

time to sow your

works so well.

height and are a more genteel version

stems and leaves

My next favourite has to be

biennials; you

Sweet Rocket, aka Hesperis

then plant them

in rusty, orange-brown shades with purple-brown lips. It’s a subtle addition

into their final position

matronalis and matronalis alba,

to a garden, not a showy, in your face

in September, or more

part of the mustard family! Large plants

Foxglove, it is also happy in full sun or

reach approximately 90cm height and

part shade, whereas most Foxgloves

will start flowering the following spring.

45cm width and produce a mass of pale

tend to prefer shadier spot.

Here are my favourites, the biennials

lilac flowers (or white for the latter

that I really look forward to each year.

variety), which are scented too. The lilac

So, there’s a taster of biennials for you, why

Top of my list are Wallflowers, aka

flowers of matronalis are luminous and

not give it a go and get sowing this July.

Erysimum. From early spring until early

provide such a beautiful show. The bees

Happy gardening!

summer these multi coloured beauties

adore them too; much needed early

provide a riot of colour, offer the perfect

fodder for them. The flowers are great

Emma www.thewallednursery.com

usually October, and they

Foxgloves

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GARDENS

MAKING THE GREAT ESCAPE

ALTHOUGH IT HAS an interesting

history that dates back to the Tudors, Chartwell found its way into the nation’s consciousness when it was bought by Sir Winston Churchill in 1924. For more than 40 years, Chartwell was not just Churchill’s country retreat; it was also the place where he found sanctuary from the intense pressures of political life and reflected on the British landscape that he was determined to protect from the world’s darker forces.

For this reason, the relatively modest

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house is one of the most beloved in the National Trust’s collection and the beautiful garden plays no small part in that. Churchill loved to relax in the grounds when he was at home and enjoy stunning views of the Weald.

When he was in London, boxes of vegetables from Chartwell’s kitchen garden would be sent to No 10 so he could enjoy a taste of home.

Tim Parker is Gardens and Countryside Manager for the Chartwell Portfolio and of his 12 years in horticulture, 10 of those have been

PHOTOS COURTESY OF NTPL/CHRIS LACEY

Our series of visits to National Trust gardens continues with Chartwell, the famous Westerham home of that greatest of all Britons – Sir Winston Churchill

spent working for the National Trust.

Since joining Chartwell just over a year ago, he has quickly absorbed the ethos that enables the team to move forward while still honouring the Churchill legacy.

“We approach this garden with dedication and lots of love, care and attention,” Tim says. “We do work within a careful framework, consulting our curators and garden advisors, and historic records to ensure that Chartwell is kept authentically to how it would have been in the time of the

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GARDENS

Churchill residency. We are at an exciting time, whereby we will be having a conservation plan written for the gardens, which will be an extremely useful resource going forward. But we aim to preserve the important views and allow for open areas, while also retaining the romance and fluffy edges that are part of the charm here.”

The garden team is made up of six gardeners and over 40 volunteers, yet the demands of keeping Chartwell in top condition are still intense – “there just aren’t enough hours in the day” – and preparation for the summer season has to start the previous autumn. Over the last several months, overgrown vegetation has been cleared from the lake edges so visitors can enjoy the sense of space, while a fresh border leading from the visitor centre to the garden accentuates the breathtaking views across the Chartwell estate. In spring, Tim and his team anticipated the huge amounts of visitors they expect this year by aerating the lawns, to give them the best chance of recovering from the tread of thousands of feet.

Autumn is a good time to undertake project work and this year, a very special task is in their sights.

“We’re running a raffle at Chartwell to fund the restoration of the Golden Rose Walk,” Tim says. “This feature was presented to Lady Clementine and Sir Winston Churchill on their golden wedding anniversary and was a gift to them from their children. This autumn we are aiming to begin the restoration work on this key feature.”

For the Churchills, Chartwell was at the heart of family life and for many visitors, this intimacy is what gives the garden a unique appeal.

“One of my favourite elements is the feeling that it’s a friendly, family garden,” Tim says. “It’s the combination of something Clementine and Winston created, and this superb setting looking out over the farreaching views of the Weald of Kent.

Add to this the sights and sounds of water that follow you around the gardens and you realise that Chartwell is a magical garden. It combines elements of gardens in the south west with large structural gunneras, soft

“We approach this garden with dedication and lots of love, care and attention” ferns and everything else, to the English staple of the rose. The gardens are also a haven for a large number of wildlife, including bats, dragonflies, butterflies, moths, bees, wildfowl and greater crested newts, and this is by no means an accident. It’s hard to pin down a particular favourite area, but the kitchen garden is pretty special.”

Lady Clementine’s rose garden was close to her heart and now it’s one of the highlights of any visit to Chartwell.

“Last winter the team worked hard to replace several tired rose beds, so the roses will be on good form,” Tim says. “Ann, our gardener, has been receiving rave reviews from visitors and volunteers about how beautiful the bedding displays look on the pink

terrace, all grown onsite in peat free soil. Elsewhere Claire and Becky, the kitchen garden team, have been busy installing some new soft fruit supports and have planted a yellow raspberry which, through digging through some archives, we found had been ordered in Winston’s time.”

The work will continue in July, but what jobs are at the top of Tim’s list?

“July is a really busy time for us and tends to be focused on a regime of keeping the gardens looking crisp, which includes lots of mowing, edging, weeding, harvesting of fruit and vegetables and some watering,” he says. “By this time the glasshouses have usually calmed down and most of the stock has been planted out. The cut flower borders and dahlias will need staking to stop them toppling over.”

For those who would like to recreate a little of Chartwell’s charm in their own garden, Tim suggests following in Churchill’s gentle example and encouraging his much-loved nature.

“I think the Chartwell feel came Winston’s love of wildlife and his keenness to embrace it and support it within a garden. So, leaving a long patch of grass here and there that can support a wide range of insects such as butterflies, moths and bees would be following in the great man’s footsteps.”

Chartwell Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent TN16 1PS 01732 868 381 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell

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v-oud

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 in Tunbridge Wells. We look after over 100 properties throughout Kent and East Sussex.

IF YOU ARE PLANNING A NEW GARDEN FOR 2015 THEN CONTACT TIM SYKES ON 07725 173820, OR JUST GOOGLE GARDENPROUD

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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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INTERIORS

SO

Onda kitchen in Orchid, from Rational

COLOUR RECIPE “Colour’s great in a kitchen and massively on trend currently – green and deep cranberry pink are particularly popular. But remember that, although coloured fitted furniture injects fun, and vibrancy can make a statement in a key room, this could affect the saleability of a house,” says Amanda Watson, Head of Design at Betta Living.

“Painted doors in more neutral colours, like sage, chalk and grey, with maybe a Carradale kitchen; Selby ceiling pendant and Cecile bar chair, both from Croft collection at John Lewis

central island painted in a warmer stronger shade, delivers a modern yet timeless look, which might be more advisable for those hoping their kitchen will stand the test of time.”

Cooking up a stylish statement Kitchens are for eating, drinking and socialising, but the heart of the home also speaks volumes about our taste

TOP TIP: Colour in splashbacks, wallpaper

and fun paint effects could be the perfect ingredients. “Coloured walls and accessories look amazing against gloss white or wood effect doors, and mean you can fairly inexpensively update or pick up on new trends,” advises Watson.

COOK UP A REVAMP “Replacing doors and drawer fronts can transform even the most outdated

DURING THE General Election

PREMIER STYLE

campaign, cameras were allowed into

There’s a relaxed, informality about

even empty the cupboards – and

the kitchen at 10 Downing Street to

Samantha Cameron’s kitchen, with its

could be around half the cost of

reveal that the Camerons’ kitchen had a

neutral colour scheme and mix of wood,

completely replacing a kitchen,”

surprisingly homely, eclectic feel. It just

steel and marble finishes, which would

says Troy Tappenden, Managing Director

goes to show that the recipe for a

appeal to those who want to avoid a

of kitchen makeover

perfect kitchen is highly personal.

conventional contemporary approach.

company, Dream Doors.

There’s no one right ‘look’ – what

“The polar opposite of high gloss, in

“There are also simple substitutions

matters is that this space suits you and

2015 we’re getting touchy-feely in the

that can gain valuable extra space in an

the way you want to live.

kitchen, by introducing rich textures to

existing kitchen, such as corner pull-out

cabinets and worktops,” says Hayley

cupboards and extra deep pan drawers.

account when choosing a kitchen,”

Shaw, Head of Merchandising at Magnet.

Replacing a stained or damaged worktop

advises Craig Burgess-Allen, UK Manager

“Mixing vintage materials with modern

is another easy way to refresh an old

for Rational Kitchens. “Consider the style

finishes adds instant character and is

kitchen and one popular option is to fit a

of the rest of your home, especially if you

extremely indulgent for those seeking

new overlay over an old worktop. New

have an open-plan layout with spaces

cutting edge trends.”

handles and lighting will complete the

flowing into one another, as you want to

TOP TIP: This year will see the emergence

transformation.”

avoid choosing a style that jars with the

of multi-functional kitchens. Expect to

TOP TIP: Tiled splashbacks date a kitchen.

rest of your design scheme.”

see wall-mounted storage transforming

“Re-tile with classic white tiles and accent

A kitchen can make or break a property

into tables and cabinets into worktops,

with a coloured grout for an up-to-the-

deal and it’s estimated that it can add up

as designers develop innovative ways to

minute look,” advises Claire O’Brien,

to 7% to the value of a home

maximise space, predicts Shaw.

Trend Manager at British Ceramic Tile.

“There are several factors to take into

kitchen – there’s often no need to

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Summer sale now on Visit your nearest shop, call free on 0800 23 00 048 or visit us at www.sofaworkshop.com

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ADVERTORIAL

CONCEPT CELEBRATION After recently launching its new Concept Centre in East Grinstead, bespoke living space designers Hehku held an exclusive commercial networking launch, which was attended by industry leading architects, interior designers and developers. Catering was provided by MielĂŠ with celebrity chef Frederick Forster and a team from Houzz UK. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re interested in visiting the Hehku Concept Centre in East Grinstead, or to find out more about booking a place at the launch event, contact one of their team on 0800 542 4197.

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BESPOKE KITCHENS CRAFTED

BY HIGHLY SKILLED CRAFTSMEN The perfect combination - tradition al woodworking skills and modern technology. Fascinating, exciting processes are an everyday occurrence at Mounts Hill Woodcraft and the end results are stunning. Come and see for yourself!

Kitchens - Joinery - Furniture T: 01580 715911

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E: enquiries@mountshill.com

www.mountshill.com

22/06/2015 15:28

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

Five of the Best… Kitchens Your kitchen is the hub of the home, so why not make it into a culinary paradise?

Leading local companies reveal how they can help you cook up a storm this summer

KRIEDER Krieder is undoubtedly one of Europe’s most innovative kitchen companies. Their daring combination of materials certainly sets them apart from their competitors. This all-new kitchen range is just one of Krieder’s latest designs, using Micro Concrete for the doors on the island and their trademark high gloss lacquer units elsewhere. To find out more about Krieder’s innovative Micro Concrete finishes and other luxurious finishes, call their Tunbridge Wells showroom or view the website.

3 Chapel Place, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1YQ 01892 619 721 www.krieder.com

HEHKU Hehku Cucina is a select blend of the finest kitchens from Great Britain and Germany. Hehku are the pioneers of creating luxury kitchens within bespoke glazed home extensions and the popular brand has recently opened a new Concept Centre in the historic town of East Grinstead, West Sussex, just 15 minutes from junction six of the M25.

Home to a beautiful range of traditional, contemporary, modern and Germanic style kitchens, alongside timber and aluminium first floor orangeries, and premium grade aluminium doors, windows and roofs, the location is seen as one of the most eagerly awaited showrooms in the south east.

Imberhorne Lane, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 1RL 0800 542 4197 www.hehku.co.uk

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

SO

MOUNTSHILL WOODCRAFT & DESIGN This is a stunning Arts and Crafts house on the Kent coast – Mounts Hill Woodcraft excel at finding and highlighting the connections between old and new, and we worked closely with our clients to design a classic kitchen with features to tie in with the original details within the house. What a gorgeous space!

The over-mantle echoes the original arched doorways, hiding an ultra-efficient double extractor and fits beautifully over the sleek stainless steel Smeg range cooker. The cabinets are painted in Myland’s Chancery, a beautiful warm cream and hide a multitude of useful pull out storage systems. Curved edges to the corner cabinets and bold, tactile stainless steel handles finish this kitchen perfectly.

Oakhurst Farm, Turnden Road, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 2QL 01580 715 911 www.mountshill.com

GRANITE TRANSFORMATIONS Granite Transformations is a multiaward winning company celebrating its 13th year of business in Tunbridge Wells, with its unique offering of granite, quartz and glass worktops that fit directly over your existing kitchen surface. With our exclusive 6.5mmm engineered stone, fitting is achieved in just one day.

We also offer a complete kitchen door replacement service, stripping back to the bare carcass and changing doors, panels, cornice and pelmets to give you that truly new kitchen look, for a fraction of the cost of a new kitchen and without the mess and demolition. Visit our website to find out more.

Unit 5, Tunbridge Wells Trade Park, Longfield Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3QF www.granitetransformations.co.uk

FREELANDS TILES Since 1999, Freelands Tiles in Dunton Green, Sevenoaks, have built a reputation in the area for excellent customer service and a great choice of tiles and accessories, with competitive prices to both trade and retail customers. If you’re looking for wall tiles, floor tiles or mosaics for your new kitchen or bathroom, we have a wide range of tiles and accessories to suit all styles and budgets. For larger orders we offer free local delivery. Come and meet our friendly, knowledgeable staff at our showroom, call us or visit the website for more information. Open seven days a week.

124-126 London Road, Dunton Green, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2UT 01732 459 765 www.freelands-tiles.co.uk

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the best aluminium products Completely transform your home and bathe your living space in natural light with our stunning range of architectural aluminium. Hehku Aluminium is a beautiful blend of incredibly strong, yet lightweight, aluminium products that are meticulously designed to provide that extra special finishing touch to your home. Whilst sourcing aluminium products for our early llluma projects, we were unable to find a reputable supplier that was capable of satisfying our stringent requirements for the very highest quality material, impeccable service, lengthy guarantees and attentive fitting. Our solution was Hehku Aluminium, which truly raises the standard in aluminium architecture, design and installation.

www.hehku.co.uk 0800 542 0852 enquiries@Jhehku.co.uk

KITCHENS

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ORANGERIES

CONSERVATORIES

ALUMINIUM BI-FOLD DOORS I SLIDING DOORS I WINDOWS I ROOF LANTERNS

22/06/2015 15:29

ADVERTORIAL

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Designed for life If you’re looking to give your home a much needed makeover, Lulu and Sherbert can make your interior design dreams come true. With their complementary skills and experience, they can provide comprehensive services that are tailored to suit your taste, budget and requirements

FOR CREATIVE DUO, interior designers Lucy Rebello and Nicky Percival of Lulu and Sherbert,

range from Fired Earth, which blends the

interior design is all about creating a look

beauty of natural stone with the practicality

that’s bold, beautiful and reflects the

of porcelain, and the soft broken-edged

client’s character. This kitchen rework

finish of the tiles echoes the texture of the

showcases how they approach each

brickwork, which the client loves.’

project – with vision and an attention to

To blend with the adjoining dining room,

considered,’ explains Nicky.

The result is a modern interior that is rich

detail. No wonder they are swiftly

linen blinds adorned with birds in fresh

becoming the go-to team for smart,

greens and pomegranate reds were

in colour, texture and creativity. ‘The client

vibrant and individual living spaces.

chosen. The existing table and chairs were

absolutely loves it and we worked hard

spray-painted in a soothing shade of

to keep within the budget,’ says Lucy.

but hard-working kitchen, Lucy and

green, offset by brightly checked seat pads

However, one thing this duo never stint

Nicky took the couple’s pride and joy – a

that add comfort to this social hub.

on is their service. ‘It’s always personal,

When asked to redesign this comfortable

glossy black Aga as the starting point. Set

Finally, a gorgeous glass pendant in

inspirational and detailed,’ she adds.

into a rough textured brick chimney

gumdrop colours was commissioned

breast, they suggested adding a standout

from Curiousa & Curiousa - a favourite

gaining them a loyal and growing

splashback in the recess. ‘We wanted

of Lulu and Sherbert’s, who keep a close

clientele. Nicky sums up their ethos:

something bold to enhance the focal point

eye on cutting-edge designers. This adds

‘A home is all about your personality

of the kitchen, in a shade that links with

a contemporary design item that

– so it’s only natural that we offer a

the rest of the room,’ explains Nicky. The

dovetails beautifully with the timeless,

really personal, individual service.’

Empress Beatrice Malachite tiles have an

traditional elements and completes this

on-trend botanical theme.

cosy family space.

To allow this centrepiece to stand out,

‘We love to pioneer up-and-coming

Lulu and Sherbert’s expertise is

Lulu and Sherbert 0770 949 0258 / 0777 337 2158

classic cream kitchen cabinets were

designers and show clients new products,

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specified partnered with timeless black

so this kitchen was the perfect opportunity

nicky@luluandsherbert.co.uk

granite. For the floor, ‘We picked the Giotto

to bring in pieces the client might not have

lucy@luluandsherbert.co.uk

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Teasel Fabrics Ltd The Curtain and Blinds Specialist

BELLHOUSE FABRICS & INTERIORS

If you would like to discuss your project please call us on 01892 510070 to make an appointment at our new offices in The Pantiles.

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Why not visit "Flahaut", a huge outlet with a large range of high end furniture - some not yet available in the UK! We have a large range of home wear, as well as outdoor furniture for every weather.

Visit us now to take advantage of the strength of your Sterling Pound!

C.AUTIC:n

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We warmlLJ welcome our British customers, meeting LJOUr installation needs, and offering the benefit

of the current Euro values.

We Look forward to seeing ~ou!

Located in one huge store overlooking Boulogne, we have a delightful and wide range of choices, full of ideas!

www.rigail.fr RIGAIL mont Lambert Route Desvres 02280 Saint martin Boulogne A10 exit n 째 31 coming from Calais - Showroom 25oom 2 open mondOL..1 to Saturdal.l

Tel: oo 33 21 99 23 21

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Email: antoine@rigail.fr

22/06/2015 15:34

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OSBORNE & LITTLE

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Featured Designer

interior design by

sk1ri'riers

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS

Specialists in "hand made" curtains, blinds, upholstery and soft furnishings.

Whatever the scale of your project step in to our showroom for advice and browse through one of the largest collections of sample books in the south east.

MANUEL CANOVAS 6 Castle Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1XJ. Tel: 01892 532003 Email : sarah@skinnersoftunbridgewells.co.uk www.skinnersoftunbridgewells.co.uk

!.JZ,,.j

ZOFFANY

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MULBERRY

LIBERTY

Cole&Son路

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.

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INTERIORS

Marble bed linen, Ted Baker

Selection tiles, Refin Ceramics

Playing with marbles Marble may once have been the preserve of swanky houses, museums and, most notably, India’s Taj Mahal, but it’s now on the move and appearing in homes in all sorts of guises

W

hether it’s faux effects on wallpaper and fabrics or embellishing rooms in its natural state, marble adds a classic touch to any decor and designers have lost their hearts again to this gleaming stone with its subtle, unique patterns.

Marble has long been favoured in functional areas like halls, kitchens and bathrooms, where its handsome looks and practicality have always made it a savvy choice, but now it’s making its way into entertaining areas, like open-plan living rooms and bedrooms. Underfloor heating means that floors in this material need no

Tato tattoo marble pouffe, Chaplins

134

longer be cold to the toes.

“The marble revival has, literally, rather taken people by surprise, but I think it’s a sign that we’re in a more confident economic era and are embracing a combination of glitz and sleek modern sophistication in the home,” says celebrity interior designer, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen. “After all, we’ve all been closeted in our burrows for the last five years, indulging in rich, dark colours, woods and general over-indulgent, high fat decoration to make our homes cosseting sanctuaries from the harsh economic winds outside.

“But last year saw things start to shift to a lighter, altogether more streamlined look and that was coupled with a revival in gold, which is starting to replace white metals like nickel and chrome. Decor’s beginning to feel rather sophisticated and rather early 1960s, with a dash of James Bond and luxe nightclub style.”

Marble will feature in LlewelynBowen’s new home – a barn conversion in Gloucestershire – which he’s currently renovating.

“I’m a fan and am definitely using the stone in the kitchen, and may consider a marbled wallpaper for one room. In the past, I used marble design vinyl tiles on a wall, which added a brilliant air of grandeur at a fraction of the cost of the real thing,” he says.

So, follow the trend and play marbles with your decor...

MARBLE MAGIC Lose your heart to stone and transform walls with lookalike marble paper...

“A marble effect on both fabric and wallpaper is hard to achieve effectively, but when done well, it provides a powerful elemental effect, which conjures an interesting and visually inspiring look for modern interiors,” says Magdalen Jebb, Creative Director

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INTERIORS

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Makrana wallpaper, Harlequin

MARBLE MOOD

at Lewis & Wood. “Marble is making a welcome return, always manages to look fresh and new and works so well for those who want the beautiful effects of natural materials.”

Fabric and paper specialists Harlequin (www.harlequin.uk.com) are always quick to spot a trend and their Makrana wallpaper, £59 a roll, comes in a variety of colourways but is particularly striking in a rich green.

If you want the real thing, Original Style (www.originalstyle.com) has an impressive collection. The Salina Honed Bevel Marble design, from the Earthworks collection, is one of the stars of the range; it comes in tiles, bricks and mosaics and no two pieces are the same. Tiles cost from £109.95 per square metre.

TAKE TO THE FLOOR White or pale marble for floors can make small rooms look more open and airy...

“Marble appeals because it’s a brilliant way of bringing richness, detail and pattern into an interior but also, because it’s organic and theoretically non-repeating, it’s visually pleasing and gentle on the eye,” says Llewelyn-Bowen.

Marble will always create a grand entrance in a hall and is an ideal material for an open-plan kitchen/dining area. Selection tiles, from £94 a square metre at Refin Ceramics, are made from many different stones from different georgraphic areas for a totally individual ceramic tile.

Have a bit of fun and play with marbles throughout the home...

Even a few carefully chosen accessories here and there could give a space that magic marble touch. And while this is a material synonymous with luxury, it’s now being used for quirky effect too.

Dress a bed with Ted Baker’s new Marble Bedlinen Collection, which is simply stunning and features those fashionable shades of grey. The double duvet cover costs £85 and a pair of pillowcases costs £35 (available from July; visit www.ashleywildegroup. com for stockists).

Se, which has a London showroom, is a repository for beautiful pieces of design and its Bala Hi side table, by designer Jaime Hayon (from £800) is a beauty, with an Italian-made ceramic base and a top of Carrara marble (www.se-london.com). If that’s out of budget, John Lewis has an HND Brigitte Marble Bar Table, in Carrara marble, from £275.

A Tato Tattoo Carrara Marble Pouffe, £649 at Chaplins (www.chaplins.co.uk), would certainly be a talking point.

Bala Hi occasional table, Se

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www .tilematesgroup.com Untitled-1 2

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Lifestyle Kia are your local approved Kia dealer.

Based next to the Spa Hotel on Langton Road, Tunbridge Wells, Lifestyle has the entire range of new and used Kia cars available to test drive.

Lifestyle Kia has a whole host of facilities available at their new and used Kia dealership in Tunbridge Wells, Kent including full Kia Service and Accident Repair, the entire new Kia range on site and available to test drive. There is also a wide selection of late registration, low mileage used Kia cars and a fully trained team of staff on hand to assist with any questions or queries you may have.

GREAT VALUE MOTORING The new Kia range has something for every budget or requirement. For customers who are looking for high-level

equipment alongside impressive value, the new SR? range might just be the ideal car. The range starts with the small yet mighty Picanto, featuring 14-inch alloy wheels, reversing sensors and rear privacy glass. On the inside the Picanto SR? is comfortable and well equipped, with Bluetooth voice recognition & music streaming, as well as steering wheel mounted controls and USB ports. Also available in the SR? range are the Rio, Venga, cee'd and Carens.

SR7 RANGE PROVING TO BE POPULAR The SR7 range is proving to be a very

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popular addition to the range at Lifestyle Kia . "When customers see the standard equipment that comes with the various SR7 models they are always impressed," comments Philip Jackson, Lifestyle Kia sales manager. He continues, "When you combine this with an affordable price tag the SR7 models are among the most sought after in the range". Contact Lifestyle Kia for more information on the SR7 vehicles.

ALL-NEW SORENTO 7-SEAT SUV Also part of the range is the All-New Sorento SUV with sophisticated exterior styling and a stunning interior with high quality materials. The Sorento comes with 7 seats and Intelligent All Wheel Drive as standard making it the perfect family car that is also capable when the surface gets rough or slippery.

With 2.2-litre diesel engines available in manual or automatic transmission the

3 YEARS' 23/06/2015 10:07

Spa Hotel

with a seven year manufacturer warranty, giving peace of mind motoring no matter which model you might choose. In addition to this, Lifestyle Kia are delighted to announce that all new Kia cars purchased and registered by the end of July will come with three years servicing free of charge. For more information about this exclusive offer contact the Lifestyle Kia sales team LARGE SELECTION OF USED CARS At Lifestyle Kia there is also a full selection of used vehicles in stock, many of which are available with lengthy warranty terms still active. Lifestyle are able to offer affordable financing options on both new and used vehicles.** Sorento delivers up to 49.6 miles per gallon" (based on the manual version).

ALPINE SPECIAL EDITION The new, urban friendly, Kia Sportage 'Alpine Edition' is now at Lifestyle Kia. An ideal car for those who like to explore, the 'Alpine Edition' boasts a seven inch satellite navigation system with European mapping, detour function, motorway junction views as well as multi route planning . Heated front and rear seats keep you and your passengers comfortable wherever you're headed .

Available in four metallic colours, the 'Alpine Edition' is sleek and sophisticated in appearance, and fitted with Infinity Premium Sound System and Bluetooth capability; it's blessed with a stylish and luxurious interior too .

MOTABILITY OFFERS At Lifestyle Kia a Motability specialist is on hand to give any help or advice if you are eligible to enter into a Motability scheme agreement.

BOOK A TEST DRIVE: lifestylekia.co.uk mail@lifestyleeurope.co.uk

01892 739171

GET THREE YEARS' FREE SERVICING AT LIFESTYLE KIA. PRESENT THIS MAGAZINE OR THE ATTACHED WRAP TO A MEMBER OF STAFF WHEN YOU VISIT THE DEALERSHIP. ONLY AVAILABLE WITH THE PURCHASE OF A NEW CAR.* "Fuel consumption MPG (I/ 100km) for the Kia range: Urban 29. 1 (9 7) - 80.7 (3.5), Extra Urban 46.3 (6. 1) - 91. 1 (31 ), Combined 38.2 (7.4) - 85.6 (3.3), CO, emissions 189 - 86g/ km. MPG figures are official EU test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Terms and conditons: 'Three years' free servicing is available on new Kia vehicles ordered and registered by 31.07. 15.

Vehicles are subject to availabillity at Lifestyle Kia. Servicing must be carried out at Lifestyle Kia to manufacturer's schedule. "Finance is subject to status. Guarantees/ indemnities may be required. Over l 8's only. Lifestyle Kia reserves the right to amend or withdraw offers at any time and without notice. Contact Lifestyle Kia for full terms and conditions.

INDUSTRY LEADING 7-YEAR WARRANTY All new Kia models come as standard

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BARRIERS & BOLLARDS

INTRUDER ALARMS

Security LONDON

•

The Gate House 93 - 97 Homesdale Road Bromley Kent BR2 9LE 020 8290 5050

-II

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Security KENT

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Ace House 28 London Road South borough Tunbridge Wells KentTN4 OQB 01732 600 600 01 892 280 280

•

Sia GOLD

Modular Scheme

SP203·Par11

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HOME FRONT

This month the schools break up for the summer holidays and

those looking to make a move. If the property comes with extra

although many families will be escaping abroad for a week or

facilities to make those summer days go with a swing, that’s an

two, there will still be a lot of entertaining to do at home. From

added bonus.

keeping the children happy to enjoying alfresco gatherings with

You’re in luck with this month’s selection of beautiful Wealden

family and friends, a home that provides plenty of leisure options

homes, because we’ve found some fantastic properties that will

is sure to be top of the class.

provide an idyllic setting for summer activities. From heated

Naturally, a great garden is at the top of many homeseekers’

outdoor pools and purpose-built barbecue areas, to the detached

wish lists – space for the children to play in safety and for keen

teenagers’ den in the grounds, read on to discover the new home

gardeners to indulge their hobby tends to be a big priority for

that you’ll be loving this summer.

STONEGATE

ROTHERFIELD

SOUTHBOROUGH

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

BIDDENDEN

Outdoor pool and barbecue

Former railway station

Teenagers’ den in

Colonial style house

Grade II listed wing

will heat things up

makes a charming home

grounds of 1930s house

in private park

of Tudor property

Price: £1.5million

Price: £900,000-£925,000

Price: £750,000-£775,000

Price: £997,500

Price: £1,050,000

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ENJOY THE COUNTRY LIFE Wonderful views are among the charms of an oast conversion in Stonegate LOCATED JUST A mile and a half

From the drawing room, double doors

from Stonegate’s mainline railway

open to the terrace, while a log burning

station, Storrers Oast is a charming

stove will keep the room cosy in winter.

family home in a country lane, while

There is also a dining room and a

still being convenient for commuters.

family room, along with a study in the

Set in generous and attractive grounds,

roundel.

this barn and oast conversion offers

On the first floor you’ll find a family

well-proportioned family

bathroom and five bedrooms, two of

accommodation with plenty of appeal.

which have en suite bath or shower

At the heart of the home is the kitchen, which features an island, electric Aga with Calor Gas hob,

rooms. The two remaining bedrooms are on the second floor.

This property enjoys the benefits of

integral dishwasher and oven; plus,

being located off a country lane and is

there’s the added bonus of a walk-in

accessed initially by a shared drive,

pantry, laundry cupboard and

followed by a private drive with parking

cloakroom on the ground floor.

for several vehicles.

For full details contact: Batcheller Monkhouse • 01892 512 020 • www.batchellermonkhouse.com 142

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PROPERTY: Storrers Oast, barn and oast conversion LOCATION: Lymden Lane, Stonegate, Wadhurst, East Sussex PRICE: £1.5million BEDROOMS: 7 BATHROOMS: 2 plus shower room & WC LAND: About 2.3 acres EXTRAS: Roundel, off-road parking, triple car port with office above, heated swimming pool, terrace, covered barbecue area, sheds, greenhouse, three stocked lakes BEST BITS: Spring-fed lakes add a great deal of charm to the delightful grounds at Storrers Oast – views of which can be enjoyed from the house. The heated outdoor pool, terrace and barbecue area also make this property ideal for alfresco entertaining.

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SOUTHBOROUGH, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

I GUIDE ÂŁ1.75

MILLION

Substantial detached Victorian villa offering light and spacious accommodation with a large extension to the rear providing versatile space for a variety of uses including potential for an annexe, home office and entertaining Drawing Room. Dining Room. Library. Study. TV Room. Family Room. Kitchen/ Breakfast Room. Office. Games Room. Playroom. Garden Room. 7 Bedrooms. 4 Bathrooms. Attractive Mature Gardens and Terrace. Passenger Lift. EPC D. APPLY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS OFFICE

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@batchellermonkhouse corn

mayfa1r@batchellermonkhouse corn

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FIND PEACE AT THE PRIORY Period features are among the charms of this converted property in Fordcombe SOUTH HOUSE, ONE of just five converted residences within the former

with access to the garden.

A lovely oak door on the half landing leads

Ashcombe Priory, is a Grade II listed gem

to the sunny, south-facing, low maintenance

tucked away in a tranquil and private

garden with an expansive rural aspect.

location, while being within a 10-minute

Beyond the beautiful stained glass window on the staircase, South House

drive of Tunbridge Wells.

The most striking room in the house is

boasts a principal and second bedroom that

the 23ft double aspect drawing room,

both have vaulted ceilings, honey coloured

which has an impressive high beamed

beams and plenty of storage. The master

ceiling, a lovely open fireplace and access

bedroom benefits from an en suite

to the front and rear gardens. At the

bathroom and three further bedrooms

opposite end of the house is a very

share a good sized family bathroom.

unusual split level, interlinked kitchen/

Outside there is an allocated single

dining room and down a small flight of

garage, a car port and a workshop. The

stairs, you’ll find a surprisingly light study

property is approached by an impressive

or small sitting room, plus a utility room

private drive.

PROPERTY: South House, Grade II listed house LOCATION: Ashcombe Priory, Chafford Lane, Fordcombe, Kent PRICE: £715,000 BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 2 plus WCs EXTRAS: Garage and carport, workshop with electricity, patio, ornamental pond, visitor parking, no forward chain BEST BITS: The gardens are a stunning feature of South House – to the front of the property is an attractive flagstone path with mature borders. You can enjoy a fantastic outlook from the south-facing rear garden, which has a sheltered patio area, raised beds and an ornamental pond.

For full details contact: Sumner Pridham • 01892 516 615 • www.sumnerpridham.co.uk J U LY 2 0 1 5

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PAST MEETS PRESENT A modern extension enhances a 17th century country house in Blackham DATING FROM THE 1600s, Pilbeams is a

the five bedrooms, which are arranged across

magnificent Grade II listed country house where

the first and second floors. Above the kitchen is

the best of contemporary living blends

the west-facing master bedroom with en suite

seamlessly with the charm of the past. Not only

bathroom and there are two other bedroom

has the property undergone a complete

suites on the first floor. The remaining two

refurbishment by the current owners, but a

bedrooms and a shower room are located on

substantial steel and glass extension has been

the second floor.

added to create further accommodation, to

The property has beautifully landscaped grounds, where a heated swimming pool has

stunning effect.

On the ground floor, there’s a dining room,

been installed in a pleasant walled area, with an

drawing room, family room and, in the extension,

adjacent pool house boasting a kitchen, changing

a striking modern kitchen. Below this, on the lower

room and shower room. This property even has

ground floor, fitness fans will love the air

its own putting green!

conditioned gym with shower room. There’s also a wine cellar to keep your collection cool.

A fabulous contemporary staircase leads up to

Ideal for family members or staff, there’s a detached cottage in the grounds with a kitchen, sitting room, bedroom and shower room.

For full details contact: Knight Frank • 01892 515 035 • www.knightfrank.com 146

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PROPERTY: Pilbeams, Grade II listed country house LOCATION: Blackham, Kent GUIDE PRICE: £2.95million BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 2 plus 3 shower rooms & WC LAND: About 10 acres EXTRAS: Gym, wine cellar, multi room integrated entertainment system, some air conditioning, new oak windows, walled garden, heated swimming pool, pool house, outdoor pizza oven, detached double garage, outbuildings, patio, brick playhouse, putting green, one-bedroom cottage, two paddocks BEST BITS: Set within the modern extension, the contemporary bespoke kitchen by Siematics is a stunning space.

Floor to ceiling windows and the bi-fold doors, which open to the stone patio, flood the room with light and there’s a range of integral appliances, along with a Subzero fridge and an AGA.

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Tunbridge Wells

ÂŁ1, 195,000

A substantial character detached family house in a delightful and peaceful country-like setting with superb far reaching views, in sought-after Culverden Down within walking distance of the schools and town centre. Master suite with balcony, 5 further bedrooms and two bath/shower rooms.

Impressive drawing room, open plan kitchen/dining room/sitting room, family room, study, utility room and 2 cloakrooms. Long drive approach with extensive informal gardens to both the back and front of the property. EPC C

Langton Green

ÂŁ1,495,000

A 4,445 sq ft contemporary detached family house featuring large balconies with beautiful views over the 1.45 acres of landscaped gardens, swimming pool, woodland and adjoining countryside. Quietly located in an excellent residential street close to Holmewood House Prep. School.

Light and spacious drawing room with access out to a delightful terrace with views, sitting/family room, kitchen and breakfast room, study, cloakroom, 5 double bedrooms, 2 en-suite shower rooms and family bathroom, 68' attic room, workshop and garage. EPC C

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TOWN LIVING IN COLONIAL STYLE Here’s your chance to own an elegant home in one of Tunbridge Wells’ most sought-after areas HUNGERSHALL PARK IS among the most

through the dining room/library to an inner

prestigious addresses in Tunbridge Wells, so

hallway that leads to the kitchen/breakfast

homeseekers should not miss the chance to

room. The drawing room opens onto a large

view this extended detached house. Eleven

balcony and there’s an adjacent conservatory

Plus is a colonial style property with

from which to enjoy the garden. A study,

weatherboard elevations and gothic style

bedroom and shower room complete the

windows, tucked away in a quiet spot on the

ground floor accommodation.

PROPERTY: Eleven Plus, detached house LOCATION: Hungershall Park, Tunbridge Wells, Kent PRICE: £997,500 BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 1 plus 2 shower rooms EXTRAS: Balcony, conservatory, off-road parking, terrace, outside cellar

Three further bedrooms are arranged on the

edge of the private park.

There is off-road parking for three or four

first floor, one with an en suite shower room

vehicles on the driveway and the gardens are

and a family bathroom serves the others.

delightful, featuring lawns, terracing and

There’s also plenty of useful eaves storage.

mature plants and shrubs.

Outside, there’s a cellar area that houses the

From the reception hall you can walk

boiler and hot water cylinder.

BEST BITS: Residents of this house benefit from pleasant views over nearby farmland, while living just one mile Tunbridge Wells High Street and The Pantiles.

For full details contact: Brooks Peacock • 01892 531 199 • www.brookspeacock.com J U LY 2 0 1 5

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ESTATE AGENTS

''

COME AND VISIT US AT THE LANGTON GREEN VILLAGE FETE

McAuley Miller Estate Agents provided the best service in the buying selling and letting process.

I will certainly use them again the next time I need an estate agent for any of these services.

They are a knowledgeable, friendly, approachable team who I would absolutely recommend to anyone I know - EXCELLENT customer service! RESIDENTIAL CLIENT ) )

MEET OUR TEAM Residential Sales I Residential Lettings I Property Management

.al!. 25 - 27 Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 BAE .JI"' 01892 614777 sales@mcauleymiller.com lettings@mcauleymiller.com

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23/06/2015 10:09

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FULL STEAM AHEAD FOR A NEW HOME Own a slice of local history with this unusual conversion property in Rotherfield

PROPERTY: Rotherfield Station, converted railway station

COMING ONTO THE market for the

and also has access to a shared en

first time in 40 years is this charming

suite. A guest bedroom/pool room

conversion of the former Rotherfield

with en suite shower room is accessed

railway station, a detached Victorian

separately from the outside.

building with a single storey extension

The gardens here are full of character

LOCATION: Spout Hill, Town Row, Rotherfield, East Sussex PRICE: £900,000 to £925,000 for main lot BEDROOMS: 5

to the south end. The building formed

– between the former platforms at the

part of the line known as the Cuckoo

rear there is a sunken garden and an

BATHROOMS: 3 plus 2 shower rooms & WC

Line, which linked Polegate and Eridge

ornamental fish pond, which used to

EXTRAS: Garden room, attached en suite studio/

from 1880 to 1968. There are two lots

be a swimming pool and is surrounded

guest room, in/out driveway, integral double

available, comprising the main house

by a paved terrace. Other delightful

and grounds, and a lower garden area.

features include a gravelled walk

garage, sunken garden, ornamental fish pond,

The single storey accommodation is

leading to a pretty sitting area to the

made up of a dining room, sitting

south, where a random stone wall

room, kitchen, separate breakfast room

crosses the line of the original track.

and garden room. There are also four

At the front of the property, an

cellar, sheds, outdoor WC, lower garden with garage available by separate negotiation BEST BITS: Also available is the lower garden

bedrooms – three of which have en

in/out driveway provides off-road

area with a separate garage, which can be

suite bathrooms – and a study, which

parking and there is an integral

added to the main lot or be purchased by

could serve as an additional bedroom

double garage.

separate negotiation.

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

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THE COACHWORKS,

Quality of life.

Hard to define, easy to recognise.

If you're looking to make the most of your retirement, then take a closer look at the Coachworks.

If you'd like to know more about how the Coachworks could fit your plans, or to arrange a visit, just give us a call on 01580 200 557 I 07975 783 593 or visit coachworksticehurst .co.uk

Our approach to assisted living works like a great waiter, always there when needed, but never intrusive. This gives you the freedom and support to make the most of any day; and there's a lot to make the most of.

We're right in the middle of friendly Ticehurst, a thriving village with both useful and unusual shops, great pubs, and excellent links to Tunbridge Wells or London , all wrapped in a warm community spirit.

The Coachworks High Street, Ticehurst East Sussex TN5 7EX enquiries@courtroyal.com

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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TUDOR SPLENDOUR FOR MODERN AGE Bring the past to life with a beautifully refurbished Grade II listed house in Biddenden ORIGINALLY A WING of a Tudor property,

floor and an electric Aga. There’s also a door to

Birchley House East now offers a high standard

the pretty, south west-facing courtyard and a

of contemporary accommodation arranged

cloakroom. Downstairs in the cellar, you’ll find a

over three floors, while retaining delightful

useful utility room and boiler room.

period features. Approached via shared access

The first floor comprises a sitting room,

that leads to a private driveway, the house

cloakroom, separate bathroom and the double

welcomes you with polished oak parquet

aspect master bedroom. A further three

flooring in the reception hall, which extends into

bedrooms, a bathroom and two shower rooms

the impressive drawing room. This light room

– one of which is en suite – are located on the

features a fireplace with oak surround, painted

second floor.

panelling to two walls and views of the south-

Outside, the mature south-facing grounds have a number of attractive features, including a

facing garden.

Also on the ground floor is the kitchen/

natural pond and steps leading to a paved area.

breakfast room, which has been completely

You can enjoy views of surrounding fields from

refurbished and boasts a number of built-in

Birchley House East, which is situated about a

appliances, along with a polished limestone

mile and a half from Biddenden village.

PROPERTY: Birchley House East, Grade II listed attached house LOCATION: Fosten Lane, Biddenden, Kent GUIDE PRICE: £1,050,000 BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 2 plus 2 shower rooms & WCs EXTRAS: Cellar, some under floor heating, garage comprising storage area and utility room, off-road parking for several vehicles, natural pond, courtyard, with Cranbrook School catchment area BEST BITS: Although it has been refurbished, this property retains many charming period features – these include fireplaces, decorative cornicing and rails, mullion and leaded light windows, original panelled doors and more.

For full details contact: Savills • 01580 720 161 • www.savills.co.uk J U LY 2 0 1 5

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SO

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SECURITY

PERIOD HOME IS A REAL HAVEN Original features give this 1930s family home in Southborough an added appeal SET WITHIN THE village of

which offers stunning views over the

Southborough is Havens View, a well-

garden and farmland beyond. A utility

presented detached house with a superb

room, double aspect reception room and

garden. Prospective buyers will be

downstairs cloakroom complete the

charmed by the original stained glass in

ground floor accommodation.

the bow window in the main reception

Four bedrooms and a family bathroom

room, along with the original fireplace.

are arranged on the first floor. The dual

Two arched leaded light windows look out

aspect master bedroom benefits from an

to the side and double doors open to the

en suite bathroom, a walk-in wardrobe,

adjacent dining room, where you’ll find

original leaded light windows and

underfloor heating and another pair of

delightful views.

At the bottom of the rear garden, there’s

original leaded light windows to

a timber games room that provides an

the kitchen.

There’s a slot for a Range cooker in the

excellent den for teenagers. In front of the

spacious kitchen/breakfast room and

house there’s plenty of off-road parking

French doors open onto the decking,

and a detached brick built garage.

PROPERTY: Havens View, detached 1930s house LOCATION: London Road, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells, Kent Price: £750,000 - £775,000 BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 2 plus WC LAND: About 0.4 acre EXTRAS: Patio, games room, original features, detached garage, off-road parking for about eight vehicles BEST BITS: The large rear garden adjoins the fields used by Honnington Equestrian Centre, where keen riders will livery services and indoor and outdoor floodlit schools. There’s also a decked patio right outside the kitchen, perfect for dining in the fresh air.

For full details contact: Bracketts • 01892 533 733 • www.bracketts.co.uk 154

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19/06/2015 15:55

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.

But did you know it also offers great value for money, with three and four bedroom family homes from ÂŁ450,000 to ÂŁ545,000.

Knights Wood. The perfect place to put down roots.

Untitled-1 2

22/06/2015 15:33

Q

fITl

lL[J WOOD & PILCHER

Tunbridge Wells

ÂŁ795,000

A beautifully presented five bedroom detached home situated in a quiet location within the desirable southern part of Royal Tunbridge Wells, approximately one mile from the Pantiles, old High Street and main line station. Reception hall, downstairs cloakroom, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, breakfast utility room . On the first floor there is a master bedroom with en suite bathroom, four further bedrooms and family bathroom . Gas central heating via radiators, double glazing . Integral double garage and double width driveway.

Well stocked mature gardens to both front and rear.

Fordcombe

ÂŁ720,000

Set in an extremely desirable lane within the heart of the popular village of Fordcombe is this 3/4 bedroom detached home, surrounded by mature gardens of 0.28 of an acre and enjoying forward views across open farmland . Entrance hall, downstairs cloakroom 22' sitting room, dining room/bedroom 4, study, breakfast room, kitchen, utility room, three further bedrooms and first floor bathroom . Rear garden with an additional area of 0 .65 of an acre garden available if required, extensive off road parking, gas central heating, part double glazing .

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

Association of Res idential letting Agen ts

National Association of

<i)nTheMarketcom

Estate Agents

woodandpilcher. co. uk Untitled-1 2

22/06/2015 15:34

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SO

HOME FIT FOR A KING Located next to the Scotney Castle estate is this wonderful cottage near Lamberhurst ENJOYING A TRULY privileged position is

attractive kitchen and there’s space for more

Woodland Cottage, which used to belong to the

appliances in the adjacent utility room. You’ll

National Trust and is among a selection of

also find a cloakroom and study on the

cottages found adjacent to Scotney Castle. This

ground floor.

idyllic setting is on the outskirts of Lamberhurst

Two bedrooms with exposed floorboards

PROPERTY: Woodland Cottage, semidetached house LOCATION: Hastings Road, Lamberhurst, Kent GUIDE PRICE: £525,000 to £550,000 BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 1 plus WC

village and provides a charming backdrop for

and a pleasant period style bathroom make up

EXTRAS: Detached timber chalet, extensive

anyone looking to enjoy the country life.

the first floor accommodation, while the other

off-road parking, woodland, patio, built-in

two bedrooms are found on the second floor.

swing, potential to extent subject to the

With accommodation arranged over three floors, Woodland Cottage is a beautifully

Out in the gardens, there’s a detached chalet

necessary planning consents

refurbished home that is surrounded on three

style summerhouse with power and double

sides by its mature gardens. An attractive

glazing, making it ideal for use as a home

fireplace and exposed brick chimney breast

office, gym or children’s play room. The

are among the features of the sitting room and

largely lawned gardens also feature a patio

there’s a cast iron log burner keeping the

adjoining the dining room and kitchen, along

adjoins the stunning 770-acre estate of

dining/family room cosy. A stable door and

with an area of woodland in which you’ll find

Scotney Castle, giving this home a truly

double butler style sink add charm to the

a chicken run and storage shed.

atmospheric setting.

BEST BITS: Woodland Cottage is located along a private road through woodland and

For full details contact: Wood & Pilcher • 01892 511 211 • www.woodandpilcher.co.uk J U LY 2 0 1 5

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19/06/2015 15:56

SUBSTANTIAL PROPERTY WITH WONDERFUL VIEWS LEEDS, KENT Occupying a rural setting with outstanding views to the north downs + 3 reception rooms + 5 bedrooms + indoor swimming pool + detached 3 bedroom chalet bungalow + lovely gardens and grounds + cobnut orchard + about 6 acres + EPC=F

Savills Cranbrook Patrick Baily pbaily@savills.com

01580 720161 Guide £2.65 million Freehold

STYLISHLY REFURBISHED FAMILY HOUSE SANDHURST, KENT On the outskirts of Sandhurst + 4 reception rooms+ 6 bedroom suites+ 44ft open plan kitchen/dining room + gardens + orchard + planning permission for garaging + Cranbrook School catchment (2015) + about 2 acres+ EPC=F

Savills Cranbrook Sarah Simmonds ssimmonds@savills.com

01580 720161 Guide £1.75 million Freehold

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SUPERB GRADE II LISTED COUNTRY HOUSE CRANBROOK,KENT Occupying a stunning position + 5/6 bedrooms + 4 reception rooms + grand hall + attached 1 bedroom cottage + beautiful gardens + tennis court + heated swimming pool + pool house+ garaging + about 2.3 acres+ Cranbrook School catchment (2015)

Savills Cranbrook Patrick Baily pbaily@savills.com

01580 7201 61 Guide £2.95 million Freehold

IMPRESSIVE AND SUBSTANTIAL EDWARDIAN HOUSE GOUDHURST, KENT With a refurbished detached coach house cottage + far-reaching countryside views + 7 bedrooms + 3 bathrooms + 3 reception rooms + attractive gardens + tennis court + about 2.4 acres+ Cranbrook School catchment (2015) + EPC=D

Savills Cranbrook Sarah Simmonds ssimmonds@savills.com

01580 7201 61 Guide £1.765 million Freehold

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22/06/2015 15:36

Great Bounds Drive, Tunbridge Wells A detached family home in a desirable location Reception hall, cloakroom, family room, utility room, kitchen, dining room, sitting room.

Master bedroom with en suite shower room, 3 further bedrooms, family bathroom. Attached garage. Rear garden. Planning approval for a substantial extension to create a strikingly contemporary home. EPC rating D.

A spectacular property with delightful wooded gardens Impressive open-plan living room and dining area, vaulted oak sitting room with magnificent views over the garden, open-plan kitchen I breakfast room, bedroom 5 I study, cloakroom I wet room shower, utility, boot room. Master bedroom suite, guest bedroom suite, 2 I 3 further bedrooms, family bathroom, open-plan library, study area and hobby room. Garaging. Garden studio I office. Stunning gardens and grounds.

Terrace. EPC rating C. In all about 1.1 acres.

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22/06/2015 15:37

. . Knight . . Frank

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22/06/2015 15:37

In a highly-sought after private road 0.6 mile from Sevenoaks station offering well-presented and versatile family accommodation. 5 reception rooms, 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Integral garage, car port, established gardens. EPC rating D. In all about 0.27 acre.

A superb, detached house built by Wealden Homes in 2005 on the south side of Sevenoaks. 5 reception rooms, 5 bedrooms , 3 bathrooms, 1 shower room. Integral double garage, driveway, attractive front and rear gardens.

EPC rating C. In all about 0.25 acre.

An exceptional detached house set in a private position within this sought-after and convenient cul-de-sac. 3 reception rooms, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Detached double garage, driveway, delightful gardens and grounds.

EPC rating D. In all about 0.25 acre.

A charmimg and cleverly extended former lodge house on one of Sevenoaks' most sought-after roads. 3 reception rooms, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (2 en-suite).

Detached double garage, delightful landscaped gardens.

EPC rating D. In all about 0.38 acre.

Clenches Farm Lane, Sevenoaks

Woodland Rise, Sevenoaks

A new property due for completion Summer 2015 extending to over 6,000 sq ft offering one of the last opportunities for a substantial new house on a much sought-after private road. 4 reception rooms, 6 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms.

Triple garage, landscaped gardens. In all about 0.46 acre.

An attractive family house of over 4,500 st.ft. on the exclusive Wildernesse Estate.

3 reception rooms, 3 bedroom suites, 2 further bedrooms, family bathroom.

Integral double garage (currently a gym/games room). Delightful south facing gardens. EPC rating C. In all about 1.01 acres.

Untitled-1 2

22/06/2015 15:38

Y -~AMPTONS 11

Beyond your expectations

--

www.hamptons.co.uk

INTERNATIONAL

TIIESIJNDAYlntES

TIIE . . . .TIMES

Central Sevenoaks,

Asking Price ÂŁ1,495,000 Freehold

An imposing detached Victorian family home built in the Queen Anne Style with 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, pretty garden and double garage. Excellent Sevenoaks schools and station are accessible along with the town centre.

EPC:F

Sevenoaks Office

Sales. 01732 423 102 I sevenoaks@hamptons-int.com

Untitled-1 2

DC 22/06/2015 15:38

Beyond your expectations .-.

www.hamptons.co.uk

THllSU:,rjll,\Yfl.\tES

TIIE . . . .TIMl::S

Friars Gate, Crowborough ÂŁ1, 775,000

Situated on the beautiful Ashdown Forest a fine period country house believed to date from the 17th Century enjoying attractive views and providing excellent family accommodation, set in outstanding park-like gardens and grounds of approximately 4.5 acres. EPC:E

Mayfield Guide Price ÂŁ2,500,000

On the edge of the village and with very pleasant views across its own land and beyond, a handsome and substantial, recently renovated Victorian country house, set within in excess of nine acres together with excellent equestrian facilities and staff accommodation. EPC:D Joint sole agents Jackson Stops and Staff

Tunbridge Wells Office

Sales. 01892 597607 I tunbridgewells@hamptons-int.com

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22/06/2015 15:39

Etchingham, East Sussex £1,999,500 Set back along a private access lane, this Grade II Listed farmhouse sits in a tranquil position amidst beautiful, rolling East Sussex countryside, dating back several centuries and displaying typical architectural features such as exposed timber work, multi pane windows and original fireplaces.

· 6bedrooms · 4Receptionrooms · Equestrian · Outbuildings · Swimmingpool · sacres

DC Untitled-1 3

22/06/2015 15:39

Beyond your expectations .-.

www.hamptons.co.uk

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Woldingham, Surrey - Guide Price 拢1,900,000 In a prime position within the Conservation Area of the highly sought after village of Woldingham and set amidst lovely part walled gardens of approaching an acre, an unlisted period property of great character with many original features. EPC F

<路1sth ce11turyu11listedvillage house *Five bedrooms *Three bath/shower rooms *Pretty mature garde11s of approachi11g mz acre *Detached barn with garagi11g

Caterham Office

Sales 01883 345255 I caterham@hamptons-int.com

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Woldingham, Surrey- Guide Price ÂŁ2,995,000 Situated on one of the area's most sought after private roads, a handsome detached house in the Queen Anne style constructed in 2on to an exacting standard, presented in a sophisticated, contemporary fashion and set within landscaped gardens in excess of r.3 acres. EPC C

*U11derfloor heati11g throughout *Home e11terta i11ime11t system *Rai11water harvesting/or garde11 irrigatio11 ,.6 beds s bath/shower rooms *4 receptio11 rooms *Ope11 pla11 kitche11/di11i11g/familyroom

DC Untitled-1 3

22/06/2015 15:40

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£2,000,000

One of the fi nest properties in Royal Tunbridge Wells with 4 725 square feet of accommodation arranged over four floors, with in an easy walk of Tunbridge Wells Station.

PENSHURST

£1,6.50,000

Honeyfield House is an attractive country property surrounded by its own gardens and grounds of approximately 3.5 acres all set with in an area of outstanding natural beauty.

TICEHURST

£89.5,000

Bingleys is a handsome detached fam ily house with substantial and we ll appointed accommodation arranged over two floors . A viewing is high ly recommended to appreciate th is fantastic fam ily home.

Untitled-1 2

22/06/2015 15:40

01892 525522

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£2.SOO PCM

A beautifully presented four bedroom semi detached house retaining many period features and located in the popular St Johns area of Tunbridge Wells.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£2000 PCM

A spacious five bedroom detached house located in the popular St Johns area ofTunbridge Wells, with in walking d istance of the town centre, main li ne station and a number of schools.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£17.SO PCM

An outstanding two bedroom ground floor apartment in th is imposing Victorian bu ilding on Mount Ephraim, with in walking distance of the town centre and main li ne station .

Untitled-1 3

22/06/2015 15:41

ANDREWS

Landlords wanted in Tunbridge Wells

Instruct Andrews and get: Listing on Rightmove, Zoopla and Primelocation Award-winning website to manage your let 24/7 Local branches available 8 'til 8 Monday to Friday and at weekends*

We have tenants in your area looking for a property now.

Book your free valuation1 today

D

/andrewsonline

El

@andrewsonline

andrewsonl ine .co. uk

*8 'til 8 weekdays, 8.30am to 5.30pm on Saturdays and 10am to 4pm on Sundays. ' Free valuation does not apply to valuations conducted for insurance or mortgage purposes.

Untitled-1 2

22/06/2015 15:41

_..:.\

Hopwood Gardens, TN4

£435,000

Hargate Close, TN2

£550,000

Semi detached family home sitting on a corner plot in the popular and desirable St. Johns area. Entrance hall, living room with period features, kitchen with breakfast bar, dining room with access to the rear garden, three bedrooms (two doubles) and upstairs bathroom.

Call now to view!

Detached and beautifully presented chalet bungalow in a quiet cul-de-sac backing onto woodlands. With entrance porch, hall, living room, open plan kitchen/dining room, 3 bedrooms, downstairs bathroom and upstairs shower room. Outside there are gardens to front and rear, driveway and garage.

Energy Efficiency Rating : E

Energy Efficiency Rating: C

Queens Road, TN4

Guide price £385,000

Stunning Victorian semi-detached house in the popular St. Johns area. This well presented property comprises entrance hall, living room with log burner, bespoke kitchen, dining room, we, upstairs bathroom and three bedrooms. Garden to front and landscaped garden to rear.

Energy Efficiency Rating : E

Untitled-1 3

Mount Ephraim, TN4

Guide price £350,000

Spectacular views over Tunbridge Wells - this two bedroom apartment has to be seen - the views are incredible! The bedrooms are double size with high ceilings and sash windows.

The living room has the wow factor with a curved bay window and cast iron fireplace.

Parking and no chain.

Energy Efficiency Rating : D

22/06/2015 15:41

Sandhurst Road, Tunbridge Wells

Guide price £450,000 - £475,000

A four bedroom detached property that could suit all your family's needs and within one mile of a train station. The property has a lovely garden for your children to play and for adults to entertain with the added benefit of a good mix of living space in a popular residential area . The lounge has doors on to the patio, a kitchen/ dining area, utility room and the Master bedroom has the added benefit of an ensuite. Combined with a garage and dri veway this property could make the ideal family home.

Pennine Walk, Tunbridge Wells

Martins Gardens, Crowborough

Guide Price £450,000-£475,000

Guide Price £300,000-£325,000

This three bedroom detached house is situated in the popular St James area of Tunbridge Wells, which is convenient for the Tunbridge Wells town centre and the local train station. The property offers a downstairs w.c, open plan lounge/ diner, a modern kitchen , a dining/ living area and upstairs bathroom. Outside there is a lawned garden and a garage en bloc. No Chain.

This modern three bedroom end of terrace offers a downstairs cloakroom , two receptions , a modern kitchen , upstairs family bathroom and an ensuite to the master bedroom. There are gardens to the front and rear plus off road parking and garage.

Additional visitors parking.

Untitled-1 2

Pennine Walk, Tunbridge Wells Guide Price £300,000-£325,000 A mid terraced three bedroom property situated in the favoured St James area of Tunbridge Wells. The property has a lounge, dining room , modern kitchen with integrated appliances and upstairs bathroom. Outside there is a garage en bloc and a patio garden. If you are looking for a home in a convenient residential area then this could be perfect for those looking to get on the next step of the property ladder.

22/06/2015 15:42

Connells

Edison Court

£1250pcm

Stunning Penthouse Apartment. Convenient for the town centre and mainline station . The property comprises of hallway, spacious open plan living room , superb fitted kitchen with appliances, master bedroom with en suite shower room , further double bedroom and family bathroom . The apartment also benefits from entry phone system , lift and secure underground parking.

Grove hill House

£1275pcm

Sought after 2 Double Bedroom Apartment. Situated moments away from Tunbridge wells main line station and popular Pantiles area. Also benefiting from off Road parking.

This beautiful property is spacious throughout benefits from 2 double bedrooms master with En-suite, modern fitted kitchen with dining area and spacious lounge. Also benefiting from private balcony and allocated parking space for one car.

Untitled-1 3

Railway house

£950pcm

Attractive two double bedroom top floor apartment with private balcony. This beautifully decorated property can be offered furnished or unfurnished to suite your needs.

And benefits from modern fitted kitchen, Light and airy living room with patio doors to private balcony, Two double bedrooms - master with en-suite, and modern family bathroom with shower over bath. located perfectly only a short stroll away from Royal Victoria shopping centre and main line station. Property also comes with a parking permit for the block. Available July 2015.

Exchange Mews

£1000pcm

This perfectly located property comprises of large entrance hallway with built in storage, light and airy open plan living space with a generous lounge area, there is space for a full dining table that leads to the modern fitted kitchen with integrated appliances. There are two bedrooms the master boasts built in wardrobes and En-suit shower room, as well as having a modern family bathroom. Secure Allocated parking.

22/06/2015 15:43

•••

Barnes Kingsnorth

NORTH TONBRIDGE £765,000 PERFECT FAMILY LOCATION near open cow1tryside yet convenient for town, schools and MIS Attractive and substantial detached house with 5 I 6 bedrooms, 2 spacious receptions, fabulous kitchen/ breakfast room, utility, cloakroom and 3 shower / bathrooms. Delightful garden and integral double garage offering scope for home office/ annexe. EPC: D

HILDENBOROUGH £550,000 ENVIABLE VILLAGE LOCATION with parkland opposite and shops & primary school nearby. Individual, detached family home with versatile and spacious accommodation.

Sitting room opening to dining room, fitted kitd1en, utility, conservatory, study, 3 bedrooms, bathroom & en-suite. Integral garage and swmy garden. EPC: D

Apply Tonbridge

Apply Tonbridge

£450,000 SOUTH TONBRIDGE EXTRA LMNG SPACE at this linked d etached family home in super location within walking distance of town and MLS. Well presented with 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 receptions, stunning kitchen / diner, utility, cloakroom and additional insulated studio.

Attractive garden and parking. EPC: C Apply Tonbridge

NORTH TONBRIDGE £725,000 SUPER LARGE & LEVEL GARDEN a t this extended detached home in sought after Ridgeway area. Extended accommoda tion with kitchen / breakfast room, study, TV /family room, spacious 'L' shaped living/dining room and 2 bath/shower rooms.

Larger than average garage and plen ty of driveway parking. EPC: C

PEMBURY SALE AGREED SIMILAR PROPERTIES URGENTLY REQUIRED FOR WAITING BUYERS SOUGHT AFTER LOCATION 3 bedroom semi-detached house with 3 receptions, modern kitchen with utility, modern ba throom and gr0tmd floor cloakroom. Fabulous 212ft south facing garden, driveway parking and a ttached garage. Please call us to book your free market appraisal.

CALL US NOW FOR YOUR FREE MARKET APPRAISAL

SOUTHBOROUGH OIEO £385,000 WOODLAND VIEWS WITH TOWN CONVENIENCE De tached mod ern family ho me se t in sou ght after cul-de-sac with rear garden overlooking woodland .

Kitchen, utility /shower room, sitting roo m w ith full h eight w indows and galleried d ining room, 4 bedrooms and family ba throom. Scop e for further improvement.

Garage en-bloc. EPC: D Apply Pembury

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

Apply Tonbridge

Tonbridge Ol 732 771616 e.tonbridge@bkea.co.uk

Residential Sales & Lettings Untitled-1 2

Letting s 01732 771616 e. lettings@bkea.co.uk

www.bkestateagents.com 22/06/2015 15:43

PLAXTOL £850,000 · GRADE II LISTED This stunning grade II listed cottage was built circa 1750 and converted early this century to the highest standard. With natural ragstone walls throughout and an abundance of character this property oozes charm, versatility and central village location.

Accommodation comprises three receptions, farmhouse kitchen, utility and cloakroom, master bedroom with en-suite and dressing room, two further bedrooms and family bathroom. Beautiful gardens to the rear and 20'4 x 16'7 detached double garage.

This property must be viewed!

..;.,

PADDOCK WOOD

NO CHAIN - Impressive 2,694sq ft Oast/barn set in semi rural location with approximately 2.5 acres of garden and paddock, two stables and tack room, detached office suite. Rosewell Oast is refurbished to impeccable standard -5 bedrooms, 3 receptions. Viewing essential EPC E

Untitled-1 2

£885,000 In our opinion a beautifully located property in the favoured village of Matfield offering rural aspect to front and rear standing in grounds just in excess of two acres which could lend itself to equine facilities.

Accommodation comprising three receptions, four bedrooms to include master bedroom with ensuite, attached triple garage which has potential subject to planning to convert to 'annex or workshop' EPC: F

22/06/2015 15:44

c c:.

HELEN BREEZE THE LETIINGS & MANAGEMENT SPECIALISTS

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

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

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

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

12 London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN 13 1AJ T: 01732 740789 F: 01732 740742 W: www.helenbreeze.co.uk

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22/06/2015 15:46

A DELIGHTFUL TWO BEDROOM APARTMENT ARRANGED OVER TWO FLOORS WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE OF TENTERDEN HIGH STREET. The apartment is part of a charming period house which has retained many original features and is offered to the market with a lease in excess of 900 years. EPC: C

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Untitled-13 2

PENSIONS

INVESTMENTS

Agent of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited.

23/06/2015 15:48

subject to terms & availability

For reassurance that you are properly insured, our experts, Quastel Associates, will visit you and value your personal belongings. If the contents of your home are worth £100,000 or more, ask me about a free valuation and an NFU Mutual Bespoke home insurance quote.

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Untitled-13 2

PENSIONS

INVESTMENTS

NFU Mutual is The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited

23/06/2015 15:48

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

SO

LETTING GO The Weald is a highly desirable place to live and we all know that the local property market is on the up, with our attractive mix of vibrant towns, picturesque villages and rich cultural life attracting buyers from all over the country.

However, what if you’re looking not to sell your property, but to let it? Perhaps you’ve inherited a property and would like to earn a long term rental income, rather than simply selling it; maybe you’ve been offered the chance to work abroad, so you see letting as a good option to keep your home occupied and cover the mortgage payments while you’re away.

More and more people are seeing property investment as a way to save for their retirement, with many taking out buy-to-let mortgages in order to become landlords. However, you will doubtless have questions about life as a landlord – what is the local lettings market like these days? Can you achieve a good return on your investment and how can you make your property appealing to tenants this summer?

Read on to find the answers to all these questions and more, as leading local agents give their expert view on the current state of the market and reveal how they could help you make the most of your investment.

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£650,000 GOUDHURST A beautiful 4 bedroom detached family house situated in the delightful village of Goudhurst and within the Cranbrook School Catchment area. There property also benefits from ample off road parking and an outbuilding to the side. There is no onward chain.

WADHURST GUIDE PRICE £375,000 - £395,000 A wonderful Grade II period cottage situated in the heart of the village with views at the rear over the church. The property has 3 bedrooms and 2 reception rooms and has potential.

No Onward Chain.

"B' Tunbridge Wells 01892 278085

"B' Tunbridge Wells 01892 278085

WADHURST £775,000 A 4 bedroom detached family home with stunning panoramic views.

Beautiful gardens wrap around the property and there is a double detached garage with ample off road parking.

A viewing is highly recommended.

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

A viewing is strongly recommended.

ff Tunbridge Wells 01892 278085

"B' Tunbridge Wells 01892 278085

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22/06/2015 15:46

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

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CONNELLS RESIDENTIAL LETTINGS Tunbridge Wells Louise Mcallen - Lettings Manager Tunbridge Wells has become a favourite

that fences and sheds are freshly painted.

commuter hotspot over the last few

We also suggest that interiors are kept as

years. This increase in demand has also

light and airy as possible by touching up

led to a rise in rents, so the lettings

paint work and swapping darker colours

market is extremely buoyant.

for neutral tones.

� SUMMER IS HERE – HOW DOES

WHAT SORT OF RETURN CAN YOU

THAT TEND TO AFFECT THE MARKET?

GET FROM LETTING A PROPERTY?

Summer is notoriously busy in the rental

With rental values on the up and location

market because many industries have quiet

popularity growing, the buy-to-let market

periods then. This makes it the perfect

in Tunbridge Wells is now booming.

� HOW IMPORTANT ARE LETTINGS

opportunity for potential tenants to

Landlords in the area can expect to

TO YOUR AGENCY THESE DAYS?

dedicate more time to search for properties.

achieve yields in the region of 4% to

Louise Mcallen, right, with Lettings Negotiator Lara Ovenden

5.5%. As there is now better availability

Lettings are extremely important to us, not only in our Tunbridge Wells branch, but to

� HOW CAN LANDLORDS

on buy-to-let mortgages and they have

the company as a whole. Our lettings

INCREASE THEIR PROPERTY’S

lower interest rates, it’s becoming more

department brings in a lot of revenue and has

APPEAL IN SUMMER?

and more attractive to potential buyers.

grown considerably over the last three years.

Landlords should make sure that any outdoor space or entry area is looking its

5 Vale Road, Tunbridge Wells,

� HAVE YOU SEEN A CHANGE IN THE

best for viewings. This means washing

Kent TN1 1BS

LOCAL LETTINGS MARKET RECENTLY?

down decking and patios, keeping lawns

01892 546 441

With its mixture of great links into

and flowerbeds tidy and attractive,

tunbridgewellslet@connells.co.uk

London and beautiful outdoor spaces,

making sure that furniture isn’t tatty and

www.connells.co.uk

BATCHELLER MONKHOUSE Tunbridge Wells Zoe Strickland MARLA - Lettings Manager � HOW

MARKET RECENTLY?

APPEALING TO TENANTS

IMPORTANT

We have noticed over at least the past

IN SUMMER?

ARE

year a change in the type of landlord.

Ensure that the property is presented

LETTINGS

Prior to this, the majority of our

in neutral tones, the carpets are clean,

TO YOUR

landlords were investment landlords

windows are gleaming and any outside

AGENCY

and to a large extent they still are. We

space is well tended with flowerbeds

THESE

are receiving instructions more and

well stocked.

DAYS?

more from “accidental” landlords who,

In order to

instead of selling their home, are in fact

� WHAT KIND OF RETURN

offer the best

utilising their main residence for the

CAN YOU EXPECT?

possible service,

income it can produce.

There is more demand in the summer

we realised the

months and, with a quality property in a

need to be able to advise and act for our

� HOW DOES SUMMER AFFECT

favoured part of town or nearby village,

clients in all aspects of the property market.

THE LETTINGS MARKET?

then you can average a 4% to 5% yield.

We offer a high quality and bespoke

Spring and summer are, historically, the

Having said that, we recently let a

lettings’ service to investment landlords,

most buoyant months for us letting

property in Tunbridge Wells where the

property investors and landlords alike. SO!

agents, with those applicants with

landlord’s yield will be 8.16%, which

with four successful lettings departments

children keen to secure a suitable property

is a staggering return.

covering Kent and Sussex, what we are

in the most desirable location and in close

trying to say is “Yes, very important”.

proximity to the best schools.

� HAVE YOU SEEN A CHANGE

� HOW CAN PEOPLE MAKE THEIR

01892 512 020

IN THE LOCAL LETTINGS

RENTAL PROPERTY MOST

www.batchellermonkhouse.com

1 London Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1DH

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

WOOD & PILCHER Tunbridge Wells Jackie Morris - Director � WHAT’S CHANGED OVER THE

the summer period the garden, or any

LAST TWO OR THREE YEARS?

outdoor space, can become more influential

Demand for rental properties continues to

in the decision to rent a property. Areas that

grow, which has led to rents increasing on a

are easy to manage would be more

national, as well as a local level. With a

attractive, as tenants are unlikely to

strong sales market at the present time, a

want high maintenance gardens.

number of “accidental” landlords from four to five years ago are now contemplating

� WHAT SORT OF RETURN CAN YOU

selling their properties, which is contributing

GET FROM LETTING A PROPERTY?

to the lack of stock and increase in rents.

The property market continues to be a very good mid to long term investment. Investors

� ARE LETTINGS A SIGNIFICANT ELEMENT OF YOUR BUSINESS?

� DO THE SUMMER MONTHS AFFECT THE MARKET?

should take into account any potential capital growth, as well as the achievable rent, when

Our Letting and Management Department

Whilst the seasons used to influence the

deciding to explore any investment

has been a very important part of our

lettings market, this trend has changed and

opportunity. At the present time, a high yield

overall business for many years and this

people are prepared to move at any time of

may be difficult to achieve on a new property

continues to be the case, with the shortage

the year. Individual circumstances tend to be

as the sales prices increase, however, we are

of housing stock for both properties to

the driving force behind a home move.

seeing yields remaining around 5%.

purchase and to rent. A stronger relationship has been built between our

� WHAT CAN LANDLORDS DO TO MAKE

23 High Street, Tunbridge Wells,

Sales and Lettings Teams, where potential

A PROPERTY LOOK GOOD IN SUMMER?

Kent TN1 1UT

investors are requesting advice early in the

A well-kept house and garden is always

01892 528 888

buying process.

more appealing to tenants, however, during

www.woodandpilcher.co.uk

� HOW

pension legislation, coupled with an

Set the stage – people need some help

IMPORTANT

increase in individuals seeking higher

imagining themselves living in a

ARE LETTINGS

returns on cash holdings. Our ability to

property. If at all possible, pictures of a

TO YOUR

offer an all-round service to potential

property with furniture in are always

BUSINESS?

landlords is becoming more vital.

going to look better than images of

YOUR MOVE sevenoaks Dan Teare - Branch Manager

empty rooms with white walls.

Lettings has been viewed as a

� SUMMER IS HERE – HOW DOES

separate part of an

THAT TEND TO AFFECT THE

� WHAT SORT OF RETURN

estate agent’s

MARKET?

CAN YOU GET FROM LETTING

business model for some time now and

When the sun comes out, so do the

A PROPERTY?

this is something I could not disagree

tenants. The summer months are always

In this part of the world, this is not as

with more. It has become an integral

busier, but this can be something of a

straightforward as looking at a yield.

part of all aspects of the business. Our

double edged sword – there are more

Capital growth forms a major part of the

ability to offer a complete property

properties available in line with an

available returns. This is where having

service to our customers and grow

increase in demand from tenants, so the

an integrated lettings and sales team

every aspect of our business – while

‘I’ll take it’ attitude is seen less often

can help you to make the right decisions

being genuinely helpful to our sellers,

than in the months when supply is

initially, depending on your long and

landlords and tenants – is key.

limited. Ultimately, the right time to

short term goals.

make your property available is the time

� HAVE YOU SEEN A CHANGE IN

that suits you best.

THE LOCAL LETTINGS MARKET?

53-55 High Street, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1JF

The obvious variance in the market has

� HOW CAN LANDLORDS ENHANCE

01732 456 203

been as a result of alterations to the

THEIR PROPERTY’S APPEAL?

www.your-move.co.uk

184

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HELEN BREEZE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LLP sevenoaks Hilary Breeze - Partner

Hilary Breeze, right, with fellow Partner Diane Hopkins

� HAVE YOU SEEN A CHANGE IN

� HOW CAN LANDLORDS MAKE

THE LOCAL LETTINGS

THEIR PROPERTY MOST

MARKET RECENTLY?

APPEALING TO TENANTS?

There are definitely more individual investor

They should ensure rooms are clean and

landlords now. Many people are choosing

clutter free, that the property is neutrally

to invest in property rather than in a pension

decorated and has a well-maintained

fund, which has meant that demand has

garden. Ensure your property stands out

remained relatively consistent over the last

from the crowd with professional

couple of years.

photography and a floor plan.

The market is particularly strong for one or two bedroom properties as this gives young

� WHAT SORT OF RETURN CAN YOU

� TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS.

professionals flexibility and makes them

GET FROM LETTING A PROPERTY?

Our sole focus is on lettings. We are

good solid investments. We have also seen

In Sevenoaks, the rule of thumb for rental

specialists in the Sevenoaks area and help

the corporate market grow this year.

return on houses is around 4%, with it being slightly higher for apartments or flats.

clients to find suitable properties for buy-to-let and investment, plus we look

� SUMMER IS HERE – HOW DOES

Landlords generally hope to increase this return

after the management side of any rentals.

THAT TEND TO AFFECT

when they sell their investment property as

This can include finding tenants, checking

THE MARKET?

the capital gain has historically been very good.

all legal aspects, looking after rent

Generally speaking it is a time when families

collection and repairs and maintenance to

look to move. Proximity to good schooling is

12 London Road, Sevenoaks,

the property. We offer a bespoke service

always a real selling point and many families

Kent TN13 1AJ

tailored to our clients’ needs so what we

want to get school places confirmed prior to

01732 740 789

do depends on what is required.

the start of the autumn term.

www.helenbreeze.co.uk

ALEXANDRE BOYES Tunbridge Wells Kate Boyes FARLA MRICS - Partner � HOW

� WHAT’S CHANGED OVER THE

IMPORTANT ARE

LAST TWO OR THREE YEARS?

THEIR RENTAL PROPERTY

LETTINGS TO

The biggest changes are industry related,

MOST APPEALING?

YOUR AGENCY

including increased regulation for agents

There is a correlation between the number

THESE DAYS?

and further legal requirements for

of photographs used in your online

I’ve been selected to

landlords, such as changes in deposit

marketing and the click through rate of your

sit on the Board of

legislation, Legionnaires’ risk assessments

property on the portals, so make sure your

the Association of

and compulsory carbon monoxide

agent maximises exposure with

Residential Letting Agents to represent

detectors. There are more to come this

professional photography.

Kent, Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk and

year, including changes to Section 21

Cambridgeshire. This highlights the

notices and minimum requirements for

� WHAT RETURN SHOULD I EXPECT

importance of lettings to Alexandre Boyes

Energy Performance Certificates.

FROM LETTING A PROPERTY?

property industry and this growth is only set

� DOES THE MARKET CHANGE

let in Tunbridge Wells is currently around

to continue. We’re investing in expansion to

AT ALL IN SUMMER?

5% to 7%, which has increased from last

cope with continued rental demand,

Traditionally the summer months

year. Most landlords try to achieve gross

including a new office in Sevenoaks from

are a busy time for residential lettings,

rents between 130% and 150% of their

September. This is having a direct impact

particularly for the family house market.

monthly mortgage payment.

on all our departments; existing landlords

We are already agreeing tenancies

are approaching our sales team to increase

for August and registrations for

48 Mount Ephraim,

their portfolio and we have introduced our

September, reflecting the rush to

Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8AU

in-house maintenance team to assist with

find the perfect family house before

01892 525 522

our increasing management portfolio.

the new school year.

www.alexandre-boyes.co.uk

but also, lettings now account for 19% of the

� HOW CAN LANDLORDS MAKE

The average yield achieved on a buy to

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22/06/2015 15:47

FOOD

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

DAY OUT!

Book your plaice Fish and chips are a summer DAVID BARTHOLOMEW

staple for us Brits, but that doesn’t mean the experience of eating it should be commonplace. Kent and East Sussex Railway’s fish and chip suppers give you the chance to tuck into the national dish while enjoying wonderful views of the Rother Valley. Climb aboard the diesel-hauled train at Tenterden from 6pm and enjoy the ride through beautiful countryside to Bodiam, during which you can indulge in a glass of wine or a pint of local beer. Your fish supper will be served during the return journey and there’s choice of dishes. Tickets cost £25 for adults and £19.50 for children.

Fish and chip suppers are available on July 8 and 22, CHARITY

August 19 and September 2.

top tea rooms

Booking is essential, so call

A social enterprise eatery in Brenchley reached the finals of the national Business Charity Awards.

Grays Tea Rooms was founded by Sue Gray to provide training for people with learning difficulties, while also offering a valuable community resource. With a £5,000 grant from Town & Country Foundation, Sue transformed a rundown sports bar into a vibrant venue where locals can enjoy arts and crafts, entertainment and children’s parties, as well as delicious refreshments – plus, the loft space is now a base for creative businesses.

Sue aimed to help people with learning difficulties who might have no access to training or work placements, which would limit their employment prospects.

“Although we didn’t win, it was a real achievement to get this far,” Sue says.

“It’s fantastic that, after only a year in business, we have won Ethical Business of the Year in 2014 and been highly recognised in another.”

www.kesr.org.uk

01580 765 155 or visit

TASTY MOVE Mexican restaurant Zapatas is appealing to customers to help it find new premises in Tunbridge Wells.

Currently celebrating its 20th year in Union House on The Pantiles, the eatery is facing an uncertain future since the building was bought by property developers Dandara. Owner Richard Harvey is offering a free meal for four to anyone who can successfully help him track down a tasty new site – which needs to seat at least 60 diners, have space for a cocktail bar and preferably an outdoor area.

“The introduction of fresh Mexican cuisine to Tunbridge Wells some 20 years ago was an exciting adventure and it’s been an incredible two decades for us,” Richard says. “We have had fabulous staff work with us to help us make the restaurant a success, not least our current Mexican chef, Daniel Gallegos, who comes all the way from Tabasco, and have built up great friendships with our regular customers.

“We know what’s already available through the estate agents, but we’re looking for a great tip off that leads to us finding a new premise that isn’t currently on the market – the kind of fantastic tip that means our new home never even gets advertised on the open market.”

Suggestions should be emailed to richard@zapatas.co.uk and conditions apply – see the website for details. www.zapatas.co.uk

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THE

CINNAMON ~

zAUtilities Limited

BEST INDIAN RESTAURANT IN THE SOUTH EAST REGION KENT AWARDED BY THE BCA 2014 The Cinnamon Square Co-Owner Habib Siddiq said: "We were surprised yet elated and felt very honoured to have won the award. To be appreciated in just over two years has given us an immense feeling of satisfaction for the hard work and effort we have put into The Cinnamon Square . Furthermore , it has motivated us to go the extra mile to bring great and unparalleled food and service to our patrons.

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

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

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

RINGS HILL I HILDENBOROUGH I KENT I TNll 8LX I 01732 832944 (Take away service available 10% Discount)

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22/06/2015 15:47

FOOD

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

Menu As well as the ‘build your own breakfast’ which my guest and I have chosen, during the day the café has hundreds of options to choose from, including lunches, snacks, afternoon tea and an extensive list of fabulous and mostly gluten free cakes. The owners describe the menu as “no fuss” and “homely,” and most items on it are home-made.

With the demand for gluten free food on the rise it’s good to see even many of the breakfast options, including the sausages and hash browns boast the GF tag.

Price With breakfast you can choose as many or as few items as you wish. Sausages STUART KIRK TENTERDEN PHOTOGRAPHY

are 85p, two eggs cost 70p, beans are 60p as are two hash browns. You can also opt for mushrooms, tomatoes, black pudding, toast and bacon, each item less than £1. Hot drinks start from £1.70. For both of our meals it was under £15 and that was with ample sausages and drink refills.

Staff There’s a real family feel and the staff are friendly and attentive. Despite it

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 the Hunnybeez café in Tenterden

Location

being early and the café being packed,

Set back from the road and tucked

nothing is too much trouble and they’re

away on Tenterden High Street, right

quick to bring food, top up drinks and

next to the Gateway library and Post

even have time to chat to the customers

Office. What was once upon a time a

while they serve. It’s definitely service

party supplies shop, since its opening

with a smile here.

in 2013 Hunnybeez has been, if you’ll

Intro

excuse the pun, buzzing. During the

The only thing is...

How do you while away the morning

summer months there’s outside dining

There isn’t enough time for a slice of

while your car’s in for an MOT? Either

and the café is popular with dog

cake before the garage rings me to tell

go to the gym, or, as I prefer to do, find

owners as it welcomes pets.

me my car’s ready. I’ve been eagerly eyeing up the decadent desserts for a

somewhere serving breakfast and pass the time with hash browns for company

Décor

while and even though I should be full

instead. This particular morning I’ve

A country cottage feel, with wooden

from my breakfast, I’m adamant I

managed to rope in a fellow gym avoider

cream tables and chairs, comfy sofas and

could’ve squeezed a brownie in too.

to sample the ‘build your own breakfast’

chalkboards on the walls listing the food

Oh well, I’ll just have to go back…

menu at Hunnybeez café with me. I’ve

and drink options – of which there are

enjoyed a lunch in the eatery before and

many. The café is light and bright inside,

Hunnybeez Café

have heard great things about their

while outside a handful of tables and

1 Manor Row, 100 High Street

Queen Bee High Tea, but this time we’re

chairs provide locals with somewhere

Tenterden, Kent, TN30 6HP

paying them an early morning visit.

to watch the world go by.

01580 761 933

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FOOD

TASTE OF SUSSEX With the opening of a new dining area and some exciting additions to its seasonal menus, the 16th century charm of The Dorset Arms in Hartfield continues to attract hungry customers and keen ramblers. We find out what the pub has coming up and what makes its sausages so special

Tell us about the pub’s background

The whole lemon sole with brown shrimps,

heaters, so people can still dine outside on

The Dorset Arms public house in

samphire and frites is a real favourite,

those chilly nights. It is also available for

Withyham was built in the 16th century,

along with the grilled flat iron chicken with

private hire. To date, this area has proved

although it didn’t become an alehouse until

rocket salad and frites. For those with a

very popular, especially when the sun is

the 18th century. It’s part of the historic

sweet tooth, the chocolate and hazelnut

shining – it’s a great sun trap. Don’t forget

Buckhurst Estate and is situated in the

brownie with hot fudge and vanilla ice

our garden, which is now open.

outstandingly beautiful Sussex Weald. The

cream is definitely one to try if you

pub is named after the Earls and Dukes of

haven’t already.

Does being situated in the heart of the Sussex Weald benefit the pub?

What can customers expect from your summer menu?

Being in the heart of the countryside and

ownership now headed by their descendant, William Sackville, the 11th Earl

We always like to have seasonal produce

or ‘The Hundred Acre Wood’ (the home of

De La Warr. The family records reveal that

and have recently had locally sourced

Winnie the Pooh) is actually a big plus point

The Dorset Arms was built in 1595 and

asparagus on the menu served with a

for our business. Withyham is a beautiful

became a public house in 1735. It was

hollandaise sauce. We like to change our

village with much history and a great place

called The Ale House until 1820 when it

specials to fit in with what is in season for

to go for long picturesque walks.

became The Dorset Arms.

that month.

How about some of your bestselling dishes?

One of our most popular dishes is the

Has the recent opening of your garden room enhanced your patrons’ dining experiences?

Scotch egg served with mustard

The new garden room has a retractable

Buckhurst Estate, such as the pedigree

mayonnaise; it’s a dish we keep on the

roof and during the summer it can seat up

organic Sussex cattle and Buckhurst pigs.

menu as so many of our diners enjoy it.

to 30 outside. We have included patio

During the season, our gamekeeper

Dorset, one time heads of the Sackville family, and shares a heritage of family

190

located on the edge of the Ashdown Forest,

In what way does being based in the Buckhurst Estate contribute to the pub’s appeal?

Almost all of our meat comes from the

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FOOD

supplies us with venison, as well as rabbit,

Some 30 years ago, Lord De La Warr began

pigeon, pheasant, partridge and duck.

his search of the sausage recipe that he

SO

remembered so fondly from childhood.

Do you offer any competitions or incentives for your customers?

With the recipe having been lost along the

We give away dining experiences to local

in the kitchen, experimenting endlessly

charities, schools and churches for raffle or

until he finally created his ‘perfect’ sausage.

auction prizes. We also offer our customers

The sausages are 100% British and are

the chance to win a dinner for two simply

made by local Sussex sausage

by entering their details on the Dorset

manufacturer, Speldhurst.

way, Lord De La Warr locked himself away

Arms website.

Is there a particular vision for the pub?

Are there any plans or developments for the pub’s future?

We have some exciting plans for our

We are keen to maintain the atmosphere

pub, but all details will be revealed

of a village pub, while creating a reputation

later in the year.

for good food and service that not only attracts new customers from outside the immediate area, but also our regular and loyal customers can enjoy and benefit from too.

The Dorset Arms Buckhurst Park, Withyham, Hartfield, East Sussex TN7 4BD 01892 770 278 www.dorset-arms.co.uk

Explain what makes the Buckhurst park sausage so special

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A TRULy

ITALIAN EXPERIENCE IN THE HEART Of KENT

Wzta atTheGeorge&Dragon

All our dishes 4re freshly prep4red 4nd cooked to order using good qu41ity ingredients. often loc411y sourced 4nd from the current se4son·s produce.

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LUNCH SPECIAL OFFER Lunch menu changes every week 2 COURSE LUNCH FOR £15 EVERYDAY HOUSE WINES RED/ WHITE FOR £10.95 Monday Closed Accomodation Available

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Telephone 01892 890277 Visit www.14do1cevit4.uk.com Untitled-7 1

23/06/2015 14:32

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- AMAZING WINES - SPIRITS AND COCKTAILS - TASTY CHARCUTERIE BOARDS - INDIVIDUAL TAPAS DISHES - UNIQUE GARDEN - PRIVATE ROOMS FOR BUSINESS OR SPECIAL EVENTS -

PRE-BOOK YOUR DISCOUNTED TICKETS HERE 01622 633060 www.kentshow.co.uk ~ kentcountyshow 11 kentcountyshow ~ kentcountyshow

63 CALV ER LEY ROAD , T UNBRIDGE WELL S

01892 526515 WWW,TOWNHOUS E TWE LLS . COM

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

FREE GLASS OF HOUSE WINE FOR EVERY DINER WITH THIS ADVERT UNTIL AUGUST 31ST 2015** *Subject to availability * * 17 Sml efhouse Red/ VVhite/

Rose limited to one per visit not to be used in conjunction with any other promotion or

?Jfer

01959 562837 The White Horse Inn: 105 Main Road, Sundridge, Kent TN14 6EQ www.whitehorsesundridge.com inthebar@whitehorsesundridge.com J U LY 2 0 1 5

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FOOD

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Customers can expect top quality food served in a relaxed atmosphere, although demand means that bookings are essential at weekends, especially on Sundays when

TOP QUALITY FOOD IN A RELAXED ATMOSPHERE

a traditional Sunday roast is offered from 12pm to 6pm. There are many lovely beauty spots near The White Horse, perfect for building up your appetite, walking off lunch (and the dessert you shouldn’t have had) or exercising the dog.

Fancy a delicious meal in the heart of Kent, followed by a leisurely afternoon walk in beautiful surroundings?

The White Horse in Sundridge offers all this and more, where a range of seafood dishes and pub classics can be found on the menu. Read on to find out why it’s a must for any foodie

I

We are easy to find, just off the A25 in the delightful village of Sundridge, between Sevenoaks and Westerham, only five minutes’ drive from Junction 5 of the M25 and a minute or two from lovely spots like Toys Hill and Ide Hill. If you are planning a day out, we are only a short drive from

an Fenn acquired The White Horse in

moules, fresh cod and prawns. For the

March 2013. He came from running a

carnivore they offer some special meat

gastro pub restaurant in Rye for five

Chartwell, Knole and Hever Castle.

dishes, plus salads and the pub classics,

The White Horse Inn

years, taking it from a run-down pub to a

including homemade burgers and fish

105 Main Road, Sundridge,

highly successful venture. The White

and chips. All the food is cooked from

Kent TN14 6EQ

Horse was on the verge of closing and was

fresh ingredients by a team of three

01959 562 837

doing very little business, however, two

experienced chefs.

www.whitehorsesundridge.com

years on it is now a bustling, busy gastro pub that still has its local trade, but has combined a thriving local business with a cosy restaurant serving fresh, home cooked food, specialising in seafood.

Rye and Hastings fresh south coast fish is delivered regularly and the seafood specials board changes in line with availability. Offers usually include sea bass, bream, Rye Bay scallops, plaice,

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23/06/2015 14:57

ROSEMARY SHR__AGER_S c 0

0

K E

JULY COURSES 11th

12th 1Sth 19th 25th

R

y

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0

0

L

The Corn Exchange, The Pantiles, Royal Tunbridge Wells, KentTN2 5TE www.rosemaryshrager.com Telephone: 01892 528 700 Enquiries: school@rosemaryshrager.com

2015

Canapes 10am - 1.oopm Half Day Course Sunday Brunch nam - 2.oopm Day Course Baking Mad 10am - 3.oopm Day Course Keep it Healthy 10am - 3.oopm Day Course Absolutely Foolproof British Dishes with Rosemary Shrager Two Day Weekend Course

H

Summer Special 15% off of all our day courses in July & August if you quote SO-Summer2015 on booking (*discount only available for new bookings and does not include our Junior Gourmet Courses)

Chef's Table Dining Experience Our new addition

Friday & Saturday 7.30 - npm

'The Dining Room' is available for Corporate and Private Events throughout the week.

Junior Gourmet Courses 10am - 1.oopm 29th 9 - 12years 13 - 16years 3oth

A dining experience with a difference: sit back, relax and watch as our Michelin trained chefs prepare a wonderful tasting menu in front of your eyes.

Our tasting menu changes every week and with the season.

SHRAGER'S PATISSERIE -TERRACE IS OPEN

Should you wish to book or request a brochure, please contact martin@rosemaryshrager.com

GIFf VOUCHERS Gift Vouchers are available for purchase either for a specific course or for your preferred monetary value.

They can be delivered by post in an attractive gift pack including our Course Calendar or via e-mail.

Our Gift Vouchers are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.

Minimum voucher value is

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To order a Gift Voucher, please visit www.rosemaryshrager.com First class post and email delivery are complimentary.

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FOOD

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THOUGHT FOR FOOD This month our own celebrity chef, Rosemary Shrager, has a fantastic summer barbecue recipe

T

he summer is here at last! I do hope

and I get a huge thrill when I see the

hanging. This is always a little bit

we enjoy some more good weather

immaculately turned out cattle, sheep, and

controversial because I like my roasting

this season, because I’ve found the

pigs. There are a lot of wonderful breeds to

cuts to hang for five weeks, although the

perfect barbecue. It’s called The Big Green

choose from in this country, which brings

average is four weeks. Yet I do not like my

Egg – it’s got great heat control with the

me onto the subject of our butchers. At the

venison hung any longer than four or five

charcoal, can burn for hours and its

cookery school we use Fullers in Tunbridge

days; some people like it when it’s high,

versatility is outstanding, so the website

Wells; we’ve been using them since we

but not me.

www.biggreenegg.com is well worth a

arrived in Kent and their meat is fantastic.

For their lamb, Fullers use a Texel cross

look. I’ve included a great pork recipe below

They’ve been going a long time and they

Suffolk, while their pork is a Berkshire cross

that you should try on The Big Green Egg.

never let us down!

large white from Petworth. The reason for

Recently I filmed for my friend James

For their cattle, Fullers use a pedigree

using the cross breed is because there is

Martin’s new BBC cookery programme, The

Sussex breed from a farm in Mayfield. They

less fat; I find the pure breed can have too

Box. It’s going to be a great watch. It’s a bit

are grass fed, which makes them quite

much fat under the skin. Try it with this

of fun, but more importantly you learn as

slow-growing; the animals weigh in at

delicious recipe – serve it with some salad

you go along, getting tips and ideas.

around 600kg at 28 months old.

or just new potatoes, with lots of parsley

The agricultural shows have started now

ROAST LOIN OF PORK WITH APRICOT SERVES 4

The next stage of the process is the

and fresh mint. Speak next month, enjoy!

 Preheat oven to 160°C.  Mix the garlic and herbs in a processor with the olive oil, then rub the pork all over and tie up with string. (If you can, leave overnight to marinade.)  In a frying pan gently brown the pork on all sides. Remove to a roasting tin and deglaze the frying pan with the wine. Now pour into the roasting tin with the pork, cover with the reserved skin. Put into the oven for about 50 minutes.

• 1 kg loin of pork, ribs, spine and skin removed (keep the skin for cooking) • 1 handful each of fresh sage and parsley • 2 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped • 2 tbsp olive oil • 200ml white wine • Salt and pepper • 200ml double cream (optional)

The pork needs to be 65°C inside, check with a temperature probe.  Once removed from the oven, allow to rest for 20 minutes.  Optional extra – pour the cream into the juices form the pork, bring to a simmer, then strain into a small saucepan and continue simmering for a couple of minutes. Season to taste.

APRICOT CHILLI JAM • 200g fresh or dried apricots, stoned and chopped • 1/2 red chillis, seeded and chopped • 2 tbsp honey • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar • 1 3cm piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated • 1 cloves of garlic, finely chopped • 2 tbsp olive oil • If dried, water to cover the apricots  Mix all the ingredients in a heavy based saucepan and stir over a high heat until reduced to a thick, jammy texture.

Serve with the pork.

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-~

Taste the dillerem:e with fresh local produce, perfect for your summer BBQ. Free Ranee Chicken and Pork.. local lamb and Scotch beef.

Boe Roasts and outdoor events catered Lor by our hospitality company McKews catering OPENING TIMES Monday to Friday 6:30A.M.-5:00P.M. Saturday 6:30A.M.-1:00P.M. 60a London_Road, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 OPR

southboroughbutchers.com

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MEATY ISSUE In this age of internet ordering and supermarkets on just about every corner, it’s more important than ever to support local businesses. When it comes to butchers in particular, there are plenty of meaty reasons to keep it local

4. Customer service – in many cases, the staff manning the meat counters in supermarkets are not fully trained butchers and may not have the skills or knowledge required to meet your needs. An independent butcher will be able to provide

RECENTLY THERE’S BEEN a real

meat is sought out by chefs all over the

exactly the right cut or extra service that

push in the food media to support your

UK. So why look any further? Local

you’re looking for, as well as offering advice

local producers and buy seasonal produce.

butchers will have fostered good

on the best way to cook your meat.

Celebrity chefs are seen visiting their local

relationships with farmers in the area,

butcher on their television shows, to

meaning they can often track down the

5. Supporting the local economy – as

receive advice on the best cut of meat for

very best cuts for their customers.

well as directly helping to keep an

the dish they’re about to demonstrate to

independent business going, spending

their viewers. Restaurants are keen to flag

2. Low carbon footprint – when your meat

at your local butcher will also benefit

up the regional provenance of their

has travelled hundreds of miles to reach

the wider community. Research in 2013

ingredients and supermarkets have

your plate, that journey won’t have done

showed that for every £1 spent in small

realised that offering locally produced

the environment any favours. Buying from

businesses, 63p will remain in the local

goods will increase their credibility in the

a butcher who only sources meat from

economy, as opposed to 40p in

eyes of discerning shoppers.

within their own region cuts down on fuel

supermarkets. Studies have also shown

emissions, thereby helping to reduce

that a thriving high street with lots of

pollution. Plus, locally sourced animals will

independent businesses can boost local

have been slaughtered close to their farm,

house prices.

But why does buying local leave such a good taste in everyone’s mouths?

resulting in less stress for the animal – and better tasting meat for you.

6. You might find something unusual – unlike supermarkets, independent

1. Quality of produce – here in the Weald, and across the region at large, we

3. Provenance – knowing where your meat

butchers are free to stock quirky local

have some of the country’s best meat

has come from means you can find out

produce or create their own

right on our doorsteps. From spring lamb

more about the farmer and have

complementary products, such as

to rare breed pork, there are dedicated

confidence that the animal has been

preserves. So you may find another tasty

farmers in Kent and East Sussex whose

ethically treated.

local flavour to add to your dinner tonight!

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you’re eating lots of sugar, don’t give it up straightaway, just eat one biscuit instead of two. We’re not telling anyone to do anything we don’t do. I like a glass of wine in the evenings, but I know that most of the time, my food is spot on. I exercise, I try and get as much sleep as I can – you’ve got to try and find a balance and it’s different for everybody.”

Simpson is all about the balance, too.

“I eat butter on toast for breakfast, I have a really filling lunch and a healthy dinner and then I probably have a glass of wine

EAT YOURSELF WELL Summer is well and truly here, but are you feeling like having fun in the sun? If your system needs a boost, Lily Simpson and Rob Hobson could help, as Kate Whiting discovers

L

ily Simpson and Rob Hobson are the best advert for their new cookbook,

and a chocolate, so it’s kind of that balance,” she explains. “We hate the word ‘diet’ – I’ve never been on a diet in my life. I tried to do a juice one once, where you have juice all day and by about 10pm I was like, ‘I need something to chew’. I’m not into all that strange stuff.”

Simpson, who set up the London-based

again with what they’re eating.”

The book is split roughly in two parts, with

meal delivery service Detox Kitchen (www.detoxkitchen.co.uk) with Hobson

delicious, healthy recipes from Simpson

three years ago and whose fans include

our interview fresh-faced and sparkly eyed.

making up the first half, which all come with

Elle McPherson and Sophie Dahl, knows

But they’re not meeting me to preach about

a list of the health conditions they can be

from her own experience just how much

going wheat, dairy and sugar-free; they’re

useful for, and the second part is nutrition

what she eats impacts on how she feels

hoping to share the message that cutting

advice from Hobson, with suggested detox

– and looks.

down on those foods just 80% of the time

plans designed to help your heart, bones,

will give you more energy – and help you to

digestive system, mind, weight and

live healthily without the need for crash diets.

immunity, among other things.

The Detox Kitchen Bible, arriving for

“Our detox is not as you’d imagine; it’s

Nutritionist Hobson says the

“Some of the unhealthiest people I’ve seen are walking around ‘health food’ shops,” she says. “They follow really strict diets, they’ve

not a strict regime, it’s a lifestyle change,”

best approach is to embrace

eradicated everything, they’re

says Lily. “We’re saying, ‘If you eat really

healthy eating as a whole

living on supplements, they

well 80% of the time, then 20% of the

lifestyle, rather than a diet, and

look so tired – they’ve just got

time, you can go out and have some

go slowly.

it wrong.”

drinks, indulge and have whatever you

“The way that people end up

want’. Once you understand that and

not doing anything is they just

listen to your body, you don’t need to

try and do it all at once,” he says

The Detox Kitchen Bible by

worry, because you know what to cook

“Take small steps. Take one

Lily Simpson and Rob

that makes you feel good. It’s really

recipe a night and start with

Hobson is published by

important that people become connected

cooking something fresh. If

Bloomsbury, RRP £25.

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EDUCATION NEWS ARTISTIC APPROACH Art students at West Kent College in Hadlow finished off their degrees with an impressive exhibition of their work.

Held at Nucleus Gallery in Chatham, the week-long exhibition was entitled Encountering Otherness and

PRIMARY SCHOOLS

marked the end of their

WELLY WANDERINGS

Foundation Degree in Fine Art. Most will be moving on to the college’s BA (Hons) Fine Art and it looks like they’re pursuing the right careers, given the success

Pupils at Broad Oak Primary School

of the showcase. Professional

have been putting their best feet

artist Peter Reeds, who has a

forward to create a new Welly Walk.

studio at Nucleus, praised the

The school near Heathfield

students, saying: “It’s fantastic

became the latest to work with the

to see such well thought out and

High Weald Partnership’s Education

visually exciting art on display.”

Officer to plan a country walk route.

Starting and ending at the school gate, the 3.2-mile walk explores the stunning High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and will help the children connect with

The exhibition was organised

TOASTING SUCCESS 

the nature and wildlife that surrounds their school.

and funded by the students and on the first night, several sold work to impressed collectors.

West Kent College Programme Leader, Samuel Herbert, says: “This exhibition was a great way

A longstanding household

for the students to finish their

problem might have been solved

degree. The college has given

part in indoor workshops and tested

by enterprising students at a

them an excellent showcase for

walk options through the medieval

Paddock Wood Schoool.

their work and the vital

Children from years 4 and 5 took

landscape, which includes small

Fat, oil and grease currently

fields, gills and ancient woodland.

causes 75% of sewer blockages

“We are thankful for being given

in the UK, but a group of pupils

the opportunity to get out into the

at Mascalls School have come

countryside and develop our Welly

up with ingenious kitchen

Walk,” says Year 5/6 teacher,

utensil to tackle the problem.

Michael Tooze. “We’re looking

They created the FOG toasty – a

forward to using the walk with all

bread-shaped device which can

our children as this is a great

be fitted over outlets to catch the

resource for Broad Oak Primary

fat, then be hung outside so

School and the local community.”

birds can feed from it. Their

The High Weald Partnership has

invention won first prize at

created 52 Welly Walks with

Southern Water’s Aqua

primary schools across Kent,

Innovation Competition, where

Sussex and Surrey. Broad Oak’s

The Gadget Show’s Jason

walk leaflet can be downloaded at

Bradbury said “It’s one of the

www.highweald.org

best ideas I have ever seen.”

experience of selling it.”

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From the racetrack to the road.

Porsche has always been synonymous with motorsport - over 28,000 race victories speak for themselves, most recently our l ?th overall victory at the 83'd edition of the Le Mans 24 Hours.

Every Porsche model is tested on track at some of the most demanding race circuits in the world. It is this testing environment that underpins the precise performance at the heart of every Porsche.

To find out for yourself how it feels to drive a Porsche, arrange a demonstration drive by calling 01732 590 119 or visiting www.porschetonbridge.co.uk.

Porsche Centre Tonbridge Brook Farm, Five Oak Green Road Tonbridge KentTNl 1 OQN info@porschetonbridge.co. uk

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MOTORING MATTERS

OUR ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM THE MOTORING SCENE

SUBTLE SPIDER Order books for the new Alfa Romeo 4C Spider have officially opened. Like its Coupe sibling, the new Alfa Romeo 4C Spider is built around an ultra-lightweight carbon fibre monocoque with minimal structural enhancements required in the transition from Coupe to Spider. The main developments include a new aluminium rollover structure, which is nestled underneath a black “halo”; a specially-developed carbon fibre windscreen frame and an engine compartment cross-member made from high-strength steel. The Coupe’s fastback rear end is replaced by classic and distinctive Spider buttresses and a new engine cover with three heat extractors and a subtle rear spoiler.

NEW DAWN

DUCATI DEBUT

FANTASTIC FLEET

MAGNIFICENT MINI

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has announced the name of its forthcoming new car. The new model, an exciting and sensuous drophead, will be known as Rolls-Royce Dawn. The car is the next step in the renaissance of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, which began in 2003 with the launch of Phantom and subsequent introductions of Ghost and Wraith. It justifies the continuing investment of the BMW Group into the world’s pinnacle super-luxury brand. It will revive another famous and rare Rolls-Royce name first used in 1949, but only ever applied to 28 very special drophead bodies between 1950 and 1954.

Following its successful unveiling at last year’s EICMA trade show held in Milan in November, production of the Diavel Titanium, a limited 500-bike edition, is now under way. The first bikes are already arriving at UK Ducati Stores, inevitably causing a buzz among those with a passion for the special versions created by Ducati. Built using only the finest components and featuring plenty of exclusive details, the Diavel Titanium, in addition to inheriting the undisputed dynamic performance common to all the other models in the Diavel family, embodies a style that merges design, performance and technology.

Mercedes-Benz has been recognised as the best in the fleet industry by winning the prestigious Fleet Manufacturer of the Year 2015 Award at the Fleet World Honours 2015. The Fleet World Honours – divided into a series of categories representing car and fleet management – recognise innovation, quality and sustainability and the judges look for evidence of these characteristics when evaluating submissions. The new S-Class gained the ‘Best Luxury Car’ prize while the C-Class won the award for ‘Best Executive Compact Car’ in the Fleet Manufacturer of the Year 2015 Awards.

The new MINI John Cooper Works, based on the latest MINI 3-door Hatch, has become the hottest new car on the streets of Britain. Drawing on the muchloved brand’s 55 years of proud motorsport heritage, it’s the most powerful production MINI ever. Its 2.0-litre MINI TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder engine delivers 231 hp and 320 Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0-62 mph takes just 6.3 seconds with the six-speed manual transmission – an improvement of 0.2 seconds, or 3%, over the previous model – and an even more rapid 6.1 seconds with the optional six-speed Steptronic sports automatic gearbox, which includes Launch Control.

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WILD HORSES

For the first time, the legendary Ford Mustang is on sale in the UK and petrolheads have already snapped up this year’s allocation. But is the American icon really worth the investment?

Matt Joy gets into the saddle to find out

A

The Mustang has one of the strongest

new Mustang is news in itself,

convertible from the outset, and the

as it is one of the most iconic

whole car attempts to mix classic

images of any performance car and is

sports cars ever made and

Mustang cues with modern

still seen by many as the original

has a loyal following on both

sophistication.

low-cost, high-fun piece of escapism.

sides of the pond. But this

The manner in which the 2015

The latest version ticks all the right boxes to keep fans happy.

sixth-generation model is something

Mustang manages to evoke memories

more than that, because it has been

of the 1965 original, but without

designed to work in Europe – and

slavishly copying it, is impressive. It

the focus on looks and performance,

even the UK – too.

has great stance and impact on the

inevitably practicality takes a back seat.

road; whether it’s parked or driving

Up front, the space on offer is decent

is more sophisticated than before, while

past, it’s hard not to turn and look. The

and fine for taller drivers; the standard

there’s a choice of a 5.0-litre V8 as well

same goes for the inside, where the

sports seats are excellent. In the back,

as a more 21st century option in the

classic twin-cowl dashboard and toggle

it’s more compromised, and only short

shape of a 2.3-litre four-cylinder turbo

switches are present, although happily

adults and children will be able to get

offering. There’s a choice of coupe and

the retro theme isn’t overdone.

comfortable as headroom is limited. The

The platform is new and the whole car

206

This is a relatively big car but with

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boot, however, is good, with 408 litres

to know about this car and how it is the

competitive pricing, it’s hard not to be

of space on offer.

complete opposite of ultra-techy

enticed. Clearly lots of other people

German rivals.

think so, as the 2015 UK allocation is

The original Mustang was fast, cheap and relatively simple and while things

already sold out and if you want one

Value for money is where the Mustang scores particularly well. As

you’re looking at April 2016. You never

version isn’t a million miles away.

well as an excellent standard

know, it might even make a decent

Anyone buying one looking for the last

specification, it is the bare bones that

investment...

word in Nurburgring-honed handling

really drive the point home. A 2+2

This car summed up in a single word:

might be disappointed, but if it’s fun

coupe with a V8 engine and a 0 to

Genuine

you’re after then it’s spot-on. The

62mph time of five seconds or less

If this car was a drink… It would

5.0-litre V8 is responsive, pushing it

doesn’t come cheap; there isn’t a rival

be a Kentucky Bourbon – naturally

along with real purpose and venom

under £50,000.

when pressed and the noise is good too.

Three different steering modes are

There are rivals that are close on price and specification, but they can’t

available, as well as driving modes and

compete with the Mustang’s

with everything at its sharpest, the

personality.

Mustang will happily play the

You could use the Mustang every day

hooligan. In fact, it even has a Line-

if you can handle the fuel bills, but

Lock mode, borrowed directly from the

really it is a car to be enjoyed by

dragstrip, where the front brakes can

everyone. Young or old, man or woman,

be locked on so you can smoke the rear

the Mustang ethos is something that

tyres. It sums up everything you need

anyone can buy into and with such

FACTS

have certainly moved on, the 2015

FORD MUSTANG 5.0 V8 GT, £33,005 Engine: 5.0-litre petrol unit producing 412bhp and 387lb/ft of torque Transmission: Six-speed manual gearbox driving the rear wheels Performance: Top speed 155mph, 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds Economy: 20.9mpg combined Emissions: 299g/km of CO2

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Cooper Tunbridge Wells

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The Ultimate Driving Machine

22/06/2015 15:51

THE NEW BMW 2 SERIES CONVERTIBLE. LESS LIMIT. MORE SKY. With its elegant and sporty design, the new BMW 2 Series Convertible is a breath of fresh air.

A well-insulated soft-top adds to the convertible luxury; without dampening the thrill of the drive. See it drop in a fleeting 19 seconds, even at speeds of up to 31 mph.

The new 2 Series Convertible offers a laid-back look and compact proportions, assertive design language with short overhangs, powerful contours and a muscular rear reflect a powerful confidence.

Agile handling and exceptional driving dynamics set the pulse racing. While a choice of BMW TwinPower Turbo engines combine impressive acceleration and low fuel consumption.

Experience the driving dynamics of the new BMW 2 Series Convertible.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, AND TO ARRANGE A TEST DRIVE*, PLEASE CONTACT COOPER TUNBRIDGE WELLS TODAY.

Cooper Tunbridge Wells Longfield Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3UE 01892 629 503 www.coopertunbridgewellsbmw.co.uk

BMW EFFICIENTDYNAMICS. LESS EMISSIONS. MORE DRMNG PLEASURE.

Official fuel economy figures for the new BMW 2 Series Convertible range: Urban 24.6-54.3mpg (11.5-5.21/1 OOkm). Extra Urban 4 7.1-70.6mpg (6.8-4.01/1 OOkm). Combined 33.2-64.2mpg (8.5-4.41/1 OOkm). C0 2 emissions 199-116g/km.

Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions. *Test drive subject to applicant status and availability. BMW EfficientDynamics reduces BMW emissions without compromising performance developments and is standard across the model range.

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CULTUREVULTURE OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE AREA

ENTERTAINMENT

OPERA ON THE BIG SCREEN RICHARD HUBERT SMITH

Those who long to witness a spectacular Glyndebourne production can now sit back and enjoy a perfomance at their local cinema

E

ight decades ago, Glyndebourne staged

the sound of Turkish marching bands in this

its seminal production of Mozart’s

production, much to his audience’s delight.

Serail. This month, cinema goers across the

aus dem Serail features the Orchestra of

Weald will be able to see a new production

the Age of Enlightenment, which will be

by the world famous opera company, as the

conducted by Music Director, Robin Ticciati.

show is beamed to silver screens as part of

Soprano Sally Matthews stars at Konstanze,

the Glyndebourne Festival.

alongside Edgaras Montvidas. There will be

RICHARD HUBERT SMITH

masterful opera, Die Entführung aus dem

Enlightenment philosophy meets

Directed by David McVicar, Die Entführung

Glyndebourne debut performances by

Viennese comedy in this entertaining tale,

German bass Tobias Kehrer, Norwegian

which Mozart wrote at the age of 26 and

soprano Mari Eriksmoen and American

which premiered in Vienna in 1782. During

tenor Brenden Gunnell, who play Osmin,

the 18th century, ‘the Orient’ was generally

Blonde and Pedrillo respectively.

viewed in Europe as being a strange and darkly exotic place, and this attitude is reflected in Mozart’s work. But he also made the characters very human and offered a surprisingly open-minded resolution for the time. After the Ottoman

Die Entführung aus dem Serail will be screened at 5pm on Sunday July 19 and can be seen at the following cinemas.

Ticket prices vary.

Empire’s failed siege of Vienna in 1683, there was a fashion for all things oriental and so Die Entführung aus dem Serail was inspired by the trend.

Kino Digital, Hawkhurst 01580 754 321 www.kinodigital.co.uk

Spanish nobleman Belmonte resolves to rescue his sweetheart Konstanze from the Pasha Selim in Turkey, along with their servants who have also been captured. But

Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells 01892 678 678 www.trinitytheatre.net

the mission will be incredibly dangerous, as Belmonte and his friends are sure to face execution if caught by the Pasha.

This story features some of Mozart’s most

The Stag, Sevenoaks 01732 450 175 www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk

spectacular vocal music. He wrote the part of Konstanze for Austrian soprano Caterina Cavalieri, writing ‘I have sacrificed Konstanze’s aria a little to the flexible throat

The Picture House, Uckfield 01825 764 909 www.picturehouseuckfield.com

of Mlle Cavalieri’. He also brilliantly evoked

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SO

Gig OF THE MONTH

STAGE

Welsh post-hardcore band Funeral For a Friend made a big noise in 2003 when their debut album achieved gold status in the UK. The record also spawned three top 20 hits – Juneau, She Drove Me to Daytime Television and Escape Artists Never Die. Fans have a chance to see them in action in the relatively intimate setting of The Forum in Tunbridge Wells on Thursday July 23, so book up now for a great night of live music.

Tickets cost £14 (over-16s only) and you can book online at www.twforum.co.uk

laugh it up Everyone’s favourite Jack the Lad, Lee Nelson, is the latest household name to step on stage for Outside the Box Comedy Club. Appearing at the Stag in Sevenoaks on Thursday July 2, this TV big hitter will be offering some big laughs, along with support acts (unannounced at time of writing). The show starts at 8pm and tickets cost £16.50. Call 01732 450 175 or visit www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk to book.

FRENCH FANCY Farce comes to Farndale Avenue as the ladies of the Townswomen’s Guild Dramatic Society attempt to stage a show with a French flavour. To celebrate their town’s twinning with a place on the Riviera, the woman put on an unfathomable play about multiple love triangles – and then press manfully on, despite the disasters that inevitably befall their production. Prepare to chuckle when Chase Me Up Farndale Avenue, s’il vous plait! comes to the Oast Theatre in Tonbridge from Saturday July 25 to Saturday August 1.

Visit www.oasttheatre.com or call 01732 363 849 to book.

A REAL TREASURE Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale of derring-do is given a hilarious overhaul in Phil Willmott’s delightfully silly adaptation of Treasure Island. Trinity Theatre Club bring Jim Hawkins, Long John Silver and Lady Trelawney to life in an amateur show that will tickle and entertain anyone and is suitable for ages eight and above. The show runs at Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells from Tuesday July 14 to Sunday July 19, with matinees on Wednesday and Saturday. Book online

FEEL THE RHYTHM

at www.trinitytheatre.net or call 01892 678 678.

Audiences’ taste for Irish dance knows no bounds and there’s a spectacular show heading for Tunbridge Wells on Wednesday July 22.

Rhythm of the Dance is a thrilling production from The National Dance Company of Ireland, in which 30 dancers celebrate the rich history of Irish dance. The Young Irish Tenors also star in this rousing production, which regularly sells out theatres. The show starts at the Assembly Hall at 7.30pm and tickets cost £24/£22. Book online at www. assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk or call the box office on 01892 530 613.

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NEW LOOK

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“In some ways, the blog is a form of diary, but essentially it is like having your own virtual column”

QUESTION TIME

INSIDE VIEW This month our music columnist, Paul Dunton, muses on the rise of the internet blogger

B

logging has become an internet sensation. There

explore new places, meet new people and realise undiscovered potential.

was a time when the good

You can find out more about at

old fashioned diary was a

www.alexhibbit.wordpress.com

very popular way express ones thoughts and musings, unless you became a published journalist or book writer. In most cases, the diary

With an early interest in music that stemmed originally from her father’s love of classical music, The Beatles and Michael Jackson, it was attending a Bryan Adams concert when

provided a private platform to express

she was just 15 that really sparked her

feelings and record daily events and

interest and passion for music, and ignited

thoughts. Therapy for the soul perhaps, but

her quest to discover more. During her

also a time capsule; a record of events that

search for Shangri-La, Alex attended various

otherwise would be easily lost or forgotten.

gigs and interviewed aspiring musicians,

So in some ways, the blog is a form of

including a band called Narrow Plains which

diary, but essentially it is like having your

she really enjoyed. This led to her

own virtual column. If you can blog regularly

developing a hunger to uncover talented

and on topics and themes that are

artists who she believed should be heard

accessible, you can build a following that

and so a music-orientated blog called The

can grow and grow, from tens and

Bassment was born.

hundreds, to thousands and eventually

Alex likes to keep things moving, covering

millions! An example of a locally based

a wide range of topics while exploring and

blogger who is steadily building a sizable

developing her writing style and interview

and flourishing following is 23-year-old Alex

technique, attending different events and

Hibbit, who started out in 2014 with her

keeping a close eye on what people are

blog entitled My Search For Shangri-La – a

responding to. From a local standpoint Alex

catchy and interesting title which simply

has covered the candlelit music showcases

translates to ‘the search for utopia’. Alex

at The Grey Lady, Mrs Yarrington’s Music

aims to encourage others to learn from

Club in Hastings, The Forum, the Local &

positive experiences she has had,

Live Sessions at Trinity Theatre and features on local artists such as Sean de Burca and Roberto Picazo. She has also covered a wide range of excellent acts from across the UK including Coves & Caves, City of Lights, Narrow Plains, Boardwalk Isabella and singer-songwriter Carl Anscombe.

Alex’s longer term goals include becoming a music journalist and her Bassment blog may just prove to be the springboard to achieving this dream, given the quality and detail of her writing. If you share a passion for live music and are open to the idea of learning more about fresh new music, I definitely recommend visiting her website and following her at www.themusicbassment.wordpress.com She has plenty to offer and a true talent

www.paulduntonandguests.com

MARCO MAAS

for conveying interesting thoughts and facts. I am also pleased to announce that Alex will be blogging on behalf of this year’s Local & Live Music Festival, so watch this space and hers!

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-,r

grierson publi cati ons

COMPOSITION

FIRE

Grierson Publications is delighted to announce NB's first UK exhibition! From July 4 to July 29 at

Below 65 Gallery

I Gilbert &

Clark Frame & Print

I 65

High Street

I Maidstone I Kent

ME14 1 JF

Gallery open 9.30am-4.30pm Mon- Sat. Please do come along and see what this amazing artist can do!

Grierson Publications is incredibly proud to support and showcase the exquisite work of Nepalese artist NB Gurung, especially in the aftermath of the terrible earthquakes to hit this incredible country.

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

Predominantly a watercolourist NB has had his art showcased around the world. However he also works with acrylic and is a hugely talented Abstract painter.

All originals (framed and unframed) and Giclee prints are available for sale and to view Grierson Publication's Giclee prints of NB's originals are of a quality second to none.

Please do visit our lovely space in Cran brook to view all the originals and prints or for more information visit

www.nbgurungart.com

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T H E AT R E

SO

ENCORE

BREAK A LEG There’s no business like show business – but there can be disasters as well as triumphs. Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells offers up some cautionary tales for those determined to tread the boards

T

heatre remains an exceedingly

venue’s ceiling collapsed onto the stage

director) with a problem. He said a

popular industry to break into. Stroll

so close to one of the performers that it

pigeon had flown into the auditorium

around the right places and you’ll

completely threw her off – and everyone

while they were bringing in technical

find hoards of people desperate to

around her. The lesson being – always

equipment and had settled itself very

have a bad dress rehearsal.”

comfortably in the rafters. The hour

act, direct, produce or just be involved in theatre in any way possible. From the

“It was the opening night of our huge

before the show wasn’t spent warming

outside it seems like a near-perfect industry

production of Arthur Miller’s The

up, perfecting makeup or going over the

in which to work, but behind the scenes a

Crucible. The first act was perfect and

lines, but throwing small objects at the

whole number of problems can arise that

everyone was giving the best

rafters to try and scare the pigeon into

form the dramatic highs and lows of working

performance I’d seen them do. It wasn’t

leaving. It finally left after our producer

in theatre. This month, we ask some of those

until the second half that everything

chased it out with a broom – only five

who are involved in stage performance to

began to go wrong. The actor playing

minutes before the audience came in.”

reveal the disasters they have experienced

Reverend Hale was an understudy as the

during their time in theatre. Here are their

previous actor had broken his leg in a

theatre? One of my actors got dumped

first-hand tales of woe…

horse-riding incident. The actor was

by his girlfriend and, after the first three

doing remarkably well until, during one

scenes, decided he couldn’t go on stage

people were attending and the dress

of Hale’s lines, he accidently skipped

anymore. I was in the audience watching

rehearsal had gone remarkably smoothly.

several pages of dialogue. Although all

the show with my producer, so imagine

This was one of the biggest shows we

the actors tried to bring him back to the

my shock when our young stagehand

had ever done and no one was optimistic

right line, it was too late and despite

came on instead in a pivotal scene,

about the performance. As everyone

everyone’s professionalism, one of the

anxiously clasping a script. Luckily it

knows, if a dress rehearsal goes well, it

key passages had been missed, leaving

was a small show and the audience saw

almost always spells disaster for the

the audience confused and Arthur Miller

the funny side.”

actual night. It seemed like there was no

probably spinning in his grave.”

Want to be involved in theatre? Visit

“It was a huge show for us. Over 500

curse, though, as the show was going well. That was, until a small chunk of the

“An hour before our sold-out Christmas show, a technician came to me (the

“The worst experience I’ve had in the

www.trinitytheatre.net/support/ Become-a-volunteer

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FROM THE ARCHIVES

reportedly referred to the men fondly as his “dear fighter boys” and his “chicks”.

In the lead-up to the Second World War, Dowding showed a shrewd and intelligent foresight, by introducing the modern Spitfire and Hurricane aircraft.

He also developed the integrated ‘Dowding system’ of air defence, which included a combination of radar, human observers, raid plotting and radio control of aircraft. During the Battle of France, Dowding refused Churchill’s repeated requests to send aircraft and pilots to aid the Allies there. Afraid of leaving Britain under-defended, Dowding held back, later helping to organise air cover during the evacuation of Dunkirk. His smart decisions and

SECRET

LEADER OF THE FEW We look into the story behind a low key memorial in Tunbridge Wells that honours a true British hero

I

thorough air defence system led Dowding to be generally credited with n a quiet spot in Tunbridge Wells’ Calverley Grounds, there stands a

Dowding was forced to relinquish his

modest stone memorial to a ‘Hugh

command in November 1940 due to

Caswell Tremenheere Dowding,

clashes with senior figures, having

Air Chief Marshal 1st Baron of Bentley

already put off his retirement for over a

Priory’. Of the few brief lines on the

year in order to protect his country. He

stone, only one really hints at the

finally retired from the RAF in July

magnitude of this man’s achievements –

1942 and was subsequently elevated to

‘Our freedom, his memorial’.

the peerage as 1st Baron Dowding of

A rather grander monument stands outside St Clement Danes church on

Bentley Priory.

Although the RAF had defined much

The Strand in London. Here, a statue of

of Dowding’s life, it was not his only

Dowding is complemented by a long

interest or talent. He was President of

inscription, which concludes with these

the Ski Club of Great Britain during the

words: ‘To him, the people of Britain

1920s and was the winner of the first

and of the Free World owe largely the

National Slalom Championship. After

way of life and the liberties they enjoy

his retirement he became interested in

today.’ For Dowding was Air Officer

spiritualism and fairies, writing a

Commanding RAF Fighter Command

number of books on esoteric subjects

during the battle that determined

and joining the Theosophical Society.

whether Britain stood or fell against

He was also a vegetarian and advocate

the Nazi threat.

of animal rights – in 1973 the National

The son of a teacher, Hugh Dowding

Anti-Vivisection Society founded the

was born in Dumfriesshire in April

Lord Dowding Fund for Humane

1882. In 1914 he earned his wings and

Research in his honour.

began the distinguished aviation career

In 1969 Dowding was immortalised on

that would see him earn a multitude of

film when he was played by Sir Laurence

honours, including Companion of the

Olivier in Battle of Britain. He died in

Order of St Michael and St George,

Tunbridge Wells in 1970 and over 40

Companion of the Order of the Bath and

years later, a commemorative plaque was

Knight Grand Cross of the Royal

placed outside his former home in

Victorian Order.

Darnley Drive, Southborough – this and

He soon earned a reputation for being

the Calverley Grounds stone are the only

a little reserved and aloof, but also for

local memorials to Dowding, as his

displaying genuine care and concern

ashes were laid to rest under the Battle

for his men. After the Battle of the

of Britain Memorial Window in the RAF

Somme, he insisted that pilots should

Chapel at Westminster Abbey.

receive adequate rest, bringing him

216

the success of the Battle of Britain.

But his true legacy lives on every

into conflict with RFC Commander,

day – in the form of Britain’s freedom

General Hugh Trenchard; he also

from tyranny.

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