So Tunbridge Wells April 2016

OVERHEARD IN TUNBRIDGE WELLS

We’re always listening…

front row FASHIONS

APRIL 2016 WWW.SOMAGAZINE.CO.UK

DINE WITH

DAVINA

The Wadhurst star shares her healthy mealtime tips

the female BOSSES

ALL THE LATEST TRENDS FROM LONDON FASHION WEEK

GOING GREY

The interior shade that’s here to stay

HOW LOCAL WOMEN ARE MAKING THEIR BUSINESSES WORK

Taylor Swift

FROM COUNTRY SINGER TO THE WORLD’S BIGGEST SUPERSTAR

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210 Royal Victoria Place Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2SS 01892 523943

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MOM TO BLANC

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-I.

I Designers and makers of handmade kitchens

The difference is in the detail

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

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

~ Best of

• houzz

2016

!~

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DESIGNER KITCHEN& BATHROOM AWARDS

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2013

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_JLJST SAY THE WORD

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M A G A Z I N E

CONTENTS

SO

EDITOR’S LETTER

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

EDITOR Charlie Bond cbond@onemediauk.co.uk HEAD OF DESIGN Rowena Cremer-Price rcremer-price@onemediauk.co.uk

WELCOME TO YOUR APRIL ISSUE OF SO This time of year is one of my favourites. Aside from the inevitable April showers, the fact that the mornings and evenings are a little lighter means that even getting up for work or sitting in traffic are somehow more bearable. Our part of the world is so scenic, so it’s nice to see a bit of greenery and blossom emerging finally. I have a long list of places I’d like to

COMMERCIAL Gemma Hak ghak@onemediauk.co.uk

visit this season, so I’m just hoping those showers hold off long enough for me to get into

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Richard Moore rmoore@onemediauk.co.uk

Trust houses and gardens. This month we discover more about Smallhythe Place and its

PUBLISHED BY

the great outdoors and enjoy some of the Kentish countryside!

We have some fascinating historical properties locally, including some stunning National famous inhabitant on page 158, while the calendar section has an abundance of great places to get out and about in (pg 23).

Our exclusive spring fashion shoot in the March issue prompted a fantastic response – thanks for all your kind comments and thoughts. This month we have another beautiful shoot (pg 49), with some amazing pieces showcased. Again, they’re all available locally,

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.

so you’d better get cracking with that spring clean so you can make some room for them in your wardrobe!

Have a lovely April, come rain or shine!

EDITOR cbond@onemediauk.co.uk

CONTENTS 10 NEWS Popular festival returns

35 THE CELEBRITY

to Eridge

The extraordinary reign of Taylor Swift

11 LETTERS Wilko announcement

49 THE FASHION

causes a stir

Chic styling for the new season

14 THE INTERVIEW A day in the life of a

95 WOMEN AT WORK

Pilates queen

Why business is booming for local women

28 GROOMBRIDGE GREENERY

110 THE FOOD

Spring snowdrops at

Davina McCall’s

Groombridge Place

nutritious dishes

APRIL 2016

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

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NEWS

Tunbridge Wells

NEWS

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

PUBLISHING PRIZE A Tunbridge Wells based publisher has won Best Book Publisher 2016 in the prestigious Craft Business Awards, the industry’s highest accolade for book publishers. For over 40 years, Search Press, the biggest selling UK art and craft publisher, has served the art and craft community, and this is the third consecutive time they have scooped the top award. “We publish great books, value our customers hugely and aim always to be the best in our sector of the business” says Managing Director Martin de la Bédoyère.

The award is voted for by industry partners, associates and trade customers.

FIELD FESTIVITES Some of the biggest names in music will be taking to a local stage when they perform at this year’s Forgotten Fields festival in Eridge Park. After the phenomenal success of its inaugural year, the festival will return to East Sussex running from August 5 to 7 and will feature a host of music, arts, high quality food and drink, attractions and activities for all ages. Joining the extensive acts on stage will be R&B pop sensation Kelis, grime star Dizzee Rascal and alternative rock band Maximo Park. (Don’t forget to pack your wellies!) www.forgottenfields.co.uk

runners make their way round the course, they will be showered in coloured paint powder resulting in a mass of colourful and beaming supporters at the finish line.

“This promises to be a fantastic event and entrants can run, dance or even walk if they prefer,” says Tom. “So, get all your friends together and help make a difference to families facing terminal illness in Kent.” www.ellenor.org

REFERENDUM PREFERENCE

RUNNERS WANTED Tom Parker, member of boyband The Wanted and star of Channel 4’s The Jump, is set to blow the starting whistle at local charity ellenor’s first colour run on May 1. The fun run is heading to The Hop Farm in Paddock Wood with the 5km event open to the whole family. As

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According to data produced by Sky News, Tunbridge Wells is the most likely local authority to vote for staying in Europe.

Sky aggregated the results from surveys conducted between May 2015 and February 2016 and analysed them to find which demographic groups are most likely to vote leave the EU on June 23. The next most likely local authority to want to stay in Europe is Sevenoaks then Tonbridge and Malling following.

FORUM VICTORY Music lovers are celebrating after a Tunbridge Wells-led campaign won a battle to prevent the loss of live music venues. Launched by Forum co-owners Jason Dormon and Mark Davyd to protect live music, the group wanted an Agent of Change law to help venues. Although they did not secure this law – which means residential property develops would be responsible for paying for soundproofing if they build near any existing music venue – similar legislation has been created. As of this month, planning authorities must consider noise impacts on new residents from existing music venues. Jason Dormon said it was ‘fantastic news’.

APRIL 2016

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LETTERS

SO

... AND VIEWS

THIS IS WHERE YOU HAVE YOUR SAY ON WHAT’S HAPPENING IN AND AROUND TUNBRIDGE WELLS

LETTER OF THE MONTH

TOP PUB I was pleased to see the news of my local gastro pub being awarded for its success in your last issue. After its previous failures, the community are thrilled to now have a thriving pub on our doorstep.

The Kentish Hare serves delicious food and top quality service, they really do deserve every success.

CLAIRE WOOD, BIDBOROUGH Ed: A good pub on your doorstep means less washing up at home...

TIME TO TRAVEL It’s that exciting time of year when my husband and I start planning for our annual holiday and we have sought inspiration from your feature on Mallorca in the January issue. The vibrant art scene and stunning architecture sounds right up our street.

With the beach a stone’s throw away too, it really is the perfect destination and we cannot wait for it. Thanks for the heads up!

GEORGIA COX, MATFIELD Ed: Sounds lovely – don’t forget to take your copy of SO and send us a pic!

WILKO WHINE

BRILLIANT BURGERS

Unfortunately, the news of Wilko coming to Tunbridge Wells gives me mixed feelings.

Do we really need another chain store to further threaten the independent home and hardware shops that have closer links with the town? I am not entirely familiar with the brand, and I could be wrong and it may offer something different altogether. But let us not boycott the smaller stores just because a bigger and newer store arrives on our doorsteps. Also, I wonder where Wilko will be situated – perhaps on the old Morrisons site?

LOUISE-ANNE FOSTER, SOUTHBOROUGH Ed: Perhaps Wilko’s wares will surprise you!

I enjoyed your undercover eater review of Saint John’s Yard in the March issue and wanted to share that the burger deals on a Sunday entice my friends and I to visit often too. I have yet to try the vegetarian burger the reviewer ordered – I am guilty of always going for the chicken burger, which goes down well with a pint of Harvey’s ale. Of course, the pub wins points too by displaying copies of SO magazine for me to browse through!

NATHAN STONE, TUNBRIDGE WELLS Ed: There’s nothing better than a good burger and a good read.

CHAMPIONING COFFEE As a town, Tunbridge Wells boasts a wealth of appealing independent coffee shops.

Around the High Street alone there are a number of high quality cafes to relax with a cuppa. There doesn’t seem to be an attitude of rivalry either which is nice to see.

Obviously there is plenty of custom to go round and we just can’t get enough of our coffee and somewhere pleasant to drink it!

AMY LAMB, SPELDHURST Ed: We love anywhere we can get a creamy latte!

Email cbond@onemediauk.co.uk or write to us at SO TW, 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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MILLE MIGLI A GTS POWER CO NTROL (168566 -300 1). CHOPARD MOVEMENT, CALIBRE 0 1.08 -C

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MILLE MIGLIA

By Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen J eweller G Collins & Sons Limited

Royal Tunbridge Wells

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

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SO

INTERVIEW

A DAY IN THE LIFE Sandrine Gasnier, owner of Sandrine’s Pilates in Tunbridge Wells tell us what exercising every day for work is really like…

I

came to Pilates with a back and neck injury.

During my first pregnancy, I stayed in hospital for three months with severe back problems.

I have always been into sports; used to dance for TV shows, did karate, and my favourite was athletics, but as a competitive runner I always ended up with injuries. I decided to study physiotherapy at the Australian physiotherapy institute in Hong Kong 20 years ago. That is when I discovered Pilates on equipment.

 STRETCH START I wake up at 6:30am. I stretch my hamstrings while still in bed and my lumbar spine and then need my espresso!

For breakfast I start my day off with a nutribullet containing spinach, celery, pears, almonds and red berries, and I scramble eggs.  WORKOUT WARDROBE I get dressed into my workout clothes before work. I’m not telling you how many outfits I own though, that’s like asking me how many bags or pairs of shoes I own, and a lady never tells!  PILATES PREP Depending on what time I start, I will get to work 30 minutes before to prepare my classes, my props, equipment or my massage room. If I’m taking a class, I check who is in it and will design

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their class workout around their needs, and if I’m not teaching, I respond to emails, prepare the private room and the massage room.  TOP TEACHING Reformers and Chair classes are “la crème de la crème” but I am going to be biased and say that my favourite class is BarrePlus, as I created the method. It is such a functional workout as you work on your whole body.

It is a great one to see fast results.

My other favourite is our Foam Roller class.

Being a massage therapist, I have designed this class using trigger points and to work on challenging your core and body.  FRENCH FANCIES 12:30 is usually my lunch hour. Being French I do like to eat proper cooked food for lunch.

I do not do sandwiches and don’t do packed lunch either. I go home to have lunch or eat locally.  PERSONAL TRAINING The problem of being an instructor at the studio is you do not do the exercises when you teach, as you are correcting people at all time, so to exercise, I join classes at the studio.

I occasionally run too. I also do squats while brushing my teeth!

 COFFEE CATCH-UPS Most of our clients are regulars. I do go for coffee with my clients which I enjoy very much. It is very welcoming and friendly at the studio – it’s like a big family and people love meeting up afterwards.  HEADING HOME If I work in the evening with consultations, private sessions or massages I will normally finish around 9:30pm. Then, I eat, as I am tired by then and need food and have a chat with my partner and my kids about their day.  FAMILY TIME Time out with your family is very important in order to be happy and healthy, but it can be challenging at times to find the right balance with raising five children and having a successful business. You just need to be organised and having a good support at work and at home. My business partner is my partner in life so it helps to share the same passion for Pilates. My son Alec, who is 20, is also helping in the business with marketing and organising the everyday structure of the studio and home. He is great with his brothers and sisters... and the dogs! www.sandrinespilates.co.uk

APRIL 2016

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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.

Call 01892

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Local Showrooms at: Tunbridge Wells: Unit 5 Tunbridge Wells Trade Park, Longfield Rd,Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3QF Sevenoaks: Polhill Garden Centre, London Rd, Badgers Mount, Sevenoaks, KentTNl 4 7AD Sidcup: Ruxley Manor Garden Centre , Maidstone Road , Sidcup DA14 5BQ

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Some people are old at 18 and some are young at 90...

We all know Tigger types who bounce about at 90. With so many of us living so

long now we should all think about the boring (but important) bits of life so we can concentrate on having fun:

I. 2.

So rt out a Will - 7 out of 10 pe ople don't bother.

3.

Advance Directive - known as a 'living will' de aling with end of life treatment.

4.

Pensions - will you have enough to live on? Spe ak to a pensions spe ciali st as thi s is very complex with so many change s to provisions in the last few years.

5.

Talk - to yo ur spouse/family about what yo u want to happen if yo u're taken ill; don't wait for a cri sis.

6.

Find a friendly adviser you can get on with if yo u don't have f amily/friend s.

7. ll.

Spring clean yo ur finance s - make sure all is in good order.

Lasting Powers of Attorney - like insurance policie s - goo d to have in case of need.

Make an ass et log - details of acco unts, passwo rd s etc fo r referen ce.

!I.

Keep active, phys ic ally and mentally - apply metaphori cal WD40.

10.

Be alert - don't be taken in by fin ancial sc am s pro mising to save care fee s/inheritance tax; if things look too goo d to be true , they usually are.

For more information please contact Gail Hall at Warners Solicitors,

01732 770660

I

g.hall@warners-solicitors.co.uk

It's all about modern thinking trad1t1onal values enqumes@warners sol1c1tors co uk

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wARNERS _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

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KITCHENS, BATHROOMS & INTERIORS

SUPERIOR SURROUNDINGS

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Kiln Barn Road , East Malling, Maidstone, Kent , ME19 6BQ 01732 848444

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EVENTS

SO

APRIL

CALENDAR 8TH » Culinary Cruise

NT/PAUL HARRIS

Join Baldwins Travel group as they host an internationally inspired dining experience themed around world cruise itineraries, at the stunning Mecure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel. Travel the world through a three course tasting menu designed by local chef Neil Scott of renowned pop-up restaurant At the End of the Rainbow touching on South America, Asia and Northern Europe along the way.

From 7:30pm, tickets are £30pp and available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/btg or call 01622 762 141

4TH » Crafty Birds

Visit Knole Park in Sevenoaks during the Easter holiday for a range of themed arts and crafts activities, suitable for ages five to 12 years.

The little ones will have opportunities to make a parakeet collage of the birds that live in the park, listen to local birdsong, handle a nest or create their own clay bird with fantastic googly eyes. The event is free with normal admission charges to the park.

From 11am to 3pm, for more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole

6TH » Little Equestrians

On April 6 and 7, Riding Farm in Hildenborough will host riding lessons for children aged between four and 10. With a range of suitably small ponies to ride and groom, children will learn how to look after their pony in a fully supervised environment.

Activities will include a 30 minute group lead rein lesson and stable management sections focusing on topics such as grooming, leading, feeding and watering. £30 per child, to book call 01732 838 717 or email ridingfarmec@aol.com

9TH » Dine on Board

For something a bit different, on March 9 Kent & East Sussex Railway are offering a nostalgic experience with a delicious sixcourse meal on board their historic cars dating from the 1920s and 1930s. Departing from Tenterden Station, enjoy the sophistication of the past whilst travelling through the beautiful Rother Valley. Passengers are encouraged to dress according to the period in order to further add to the atmosphere and style of the elegant age.

Tickets are £97.50pp, to book call 01580 765 155 or visit www.kesr.org.uk

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EVENTS

16TH » Vintage Finds

RICHARD HANSON

Fancy losing yourself for the day in nostalgia and hidden treasures? Step into a world of vintage goods and artistic crafts by visiting the vintage and craft spring market at Rotherfield Village Hall. Craft demonstrations are shown throughout the day making it the perfect opportunity to pick up plenty of tips, plus you may even find inspiration to start a new hobby!

From 10am to 3pm, entry is £1 and children go free. For more information call 01892 852 888

17TH » Country Lunch

The Kent Velo Girls Sportive is back and giving us a good excuse to get our bikes out and raise money for Hospice in the Weald.

Beginning at Hilden Park in Hildenborough, the three routes will take you on a journey through the beautiful winding lanes of Kent and Surrey with plenty of glorious scenery along the way. Whilst all riders are very welcome to join, this is an event primarily organised for women by women.

Entry is from £10 and free for children.

For more information visit www.britishcycling.org.uk

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20TH » Gourmet Pairings

With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Master of cheese, William Cohen will be hosting an evening of delicious cheese, beer and cider matching at The Old Fire Station in Tonbridge. Joining him will be brewers and a cider maker talking through their local beverages chosen by William.

Boasting four speakers, five cheeses, five beers and five ciders, make sure you book a taxi!

From 7:30pm, tickets are £25pp. To book, email richard@firestationtn.com

21ST » Green Inspiration

Garden writer Jackie Bennett will conduct a writing workshop at Sissinghurst Castle near Cranbrook. For those of you who either want to write about gardens for pleasure or hope to get published, this one-day course will guide you through the basic skills of horticultural writing. Using the grounds for inspiration, expect exercises in finding your writing ‘voice’ and professional guidance on getting into print or starting a blog.

Tickets are £75, to book call 08442 491 895.

For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/sissinghurst-castle-garden

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EVENTS

SO

22ND » Bursting with Tulips

Now is the ideal time of spring to enjoy 30,000 tulips, from palest pink to nearly black, as they create dazzling mantles of colour in every flower bed, pot and border at Pashley Manor Gardens in Ticehurst. With over 100 varieties of tulip on show, representatives will be on site throughout the festival with a display of 2,000 cut tulips and to offer advice on growing your own.

Open 11am to 5pm until May 7. Visit www.pashleymanorgardens.com

22ND » A Personal Taster

For an inspirational life story over food, Burrswood Hospital are hosting a fundraising lunch at The Royal Wells Hotel in Tunbridge Wells with Susie Flashman Jarvis speaking on her journey to faith. Once a page three model and now happily married mother of four, Susie will talk about her life then and now, as a counsellor, therapist and popular author.

Tickets are £25 (including a two course lunch) and the event starts at 12:30pm.

To book, call 01892 865 985 or email fundraising@burrswood.org.uk

29TH » Tall Tales

In this exhibition at Tunbridge Wells Museum, a tall tale will unfold in a miniature world, presenting a new story from a small-scale realm, told through an installation of dolls’ house furniture. The curators at the museum are working with a talented writer and artist to reimagine the large treasure trove of tiny furniture in the museum store. An opportunity for all ages to marvel at the intricate details at such a miniscule scale.

Tall Tales, Tiny Tavern runs until September 3. www.tunbridgewellsmuseum.org

30TH » Medieval Merriment

Celebrate May Day this bank holiday weekend with traditional celebrations and activities for all the family at Hever Castle.

Join the Lord and Lady of the May on the castle forecourt and see the crowning of the May Queen then dance around the Maypole and take part in May Day dancing accompanied by 16th century music. Children can also enjoy a Green Man Trail through the castle to find out more about his origins.

Gardens open at 10.30am, castle opens at 12 noon. A family ticket costs £43.60 www.hevercastle.co.uk

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PLANT LOV(;:RS PARADIS(;: Not only are we at The Walled Nursery a bunch of self-confessed plantaholics, we also grow our plants within the walls of our idyllic walled garden so you are always sure to find something different, interesting and of tip lop quality.

In our potting shed, we have garden gifts galore, be it reconditioned vintage tools or terrariums bursting full of succulents. The cutting edge of gardening? Oh yes.. ..the best plant nursery surrounding Tunbridge Wells? r=or surel Go on, take a trip out to us today...you won't be disappointed.

Tues lo Saturday 9am lo 5pm .

Sundays 10am lo 4pm

THE WALLED OISBO 752 752

THe WALLeD NURSeRY ST. RON ANS SCHOOL, WATeR LA Ne, HAWKHURST TNIB sDH

www.lhe w al led nu rs er y.co m

NURSERY

BLUEBELL RAILWAY Monday 25th April - Thursday 28th April Tuesday 3rd May - Friday 6th May Travel in our 1913 Observation Carriage for full panoramic views of the Bluebells. Services will depart at 12.05pm and 2.35pm from Sheffield Park Station for the one hour and 40 minute return journey to East Grinstead.

Adults are priced at £17.00 and Children £8.50.

Business Show 2016 Friday 22nd April, 10am -2pm

Book tickets 8 days or more in advance and receive our bluebell bonus discount, Adults £14.50 and Children £7.25.

For more details visit info@bluebell-railway.co.uk

01825 720 800 The Bluebell Railway. Sheffield1Park Station.

East Sussex TN22 30L·

Email Bonnie Tarling on osl@sevenoakstown.gov.uk or call 01732 459953 for all enquiries.

Sevenoaks 26

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SOl\lHS

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Sevenoaks rown council

APRIL 2016

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Concerned about your home being sold to fund your future care fees?

The Issue You probably own your home as joint tenants if you are a couple and solely if you are single. For couples this means you own it wholly, jointly and severally. Ultimately therefore you do not own it 50:50 as you might have assumed. You actually own all of it together and when one partner dies the surviving partner owns it solely and absolutely.

It is sole and absolute ownership that enables a whole property to be taken into consideration as an asset by the local authority and puts the property in danger of needing to be sold to fund care.

The Reality Today The care Act 2014 introduced in April 2015 allows local authorities to assess your assets to determine if you need to pay for your own care under the new charges and assessment of resources regulations.

Currently if you have assets above £23,250, you are on your own and require care, you will probably have to pay for it all - currently averaging around £1,000 per week.

Savings, cash and income would be used first and then your property would need to be taken into consideration. You would be expected to pay for all of your care until such time as your assets were depleted to below the £23,250 threshold.

You would then pay for a proportion of your care until your assets were below £14,250 - at which point all your future care would be paid for after any relevant income was taken into account.

The Solution For couples, simply by changing the way you own your property well in advance of any care considerations i.e. from joint tenants to tenants in common and by setting up two property Trusts either immediately or within a properly structured Will at the same time will in most cases, protect the integrity of your home should you ever require care in the future, so long as avoiding care fees was not a primary motivating reason behind the implementation fo the strategy - i.e. you should be looking to protect your half of your property should your spouse remarry after your death, or you should be looking to ensure that your children would not lose 50% of their inheritance should they be made bankrupt or divorce or for example you should be looking to prevent a generational inheritance tax burden in the future. These are all sound reasons for implementing this strategy which in themselves are not deliberate deprivation of assets, but the implemantation of which protects the integrity of the property.

For sole owners the process is simply to set up a Trust now and convey your property into it which will produce the same result again this must be well in advance of any care considerations and the motivation must not solely be for the purpose of preventing your home being used to fund your care.

With our Whole of Life and Post Death Complete Property and Family Protection Package both halves of the property are conveyed into Trust IMMEDIATELY. This means the whole property is protected straight away and not just after the first party dies. The benefits of this package are that it then protects the property even if both parties go into care before the death of either. It also means that if the survivor goes into care the property does not have to be rented but if it is 100% of the income goes directly into the Trusts for the benefit of the survivor or any of the other Trust Beneficiaries and does not have to be given to the Local Authority. The most important benefit of this package though is the property can be sold at any time and the resulting proceeds be fully protected for the whole family within the Trusts and no negotiation with the Local Authority is required.

Sole owners and couples who have immediately conveyed their properties into Trust well in advance of any care consideration and not solely for the purpose of preventing their home being used to fund their care (deliberate deprivation of assets) secures the integrity of the property (so long as entry into care is not within 6 months of setting up the strategy) as the property is not absolutely owned by an individual anymore and it is not legal to force a Trustee to do something that is not in the ultimate best interest of the Trust Beneficiaries.

Call us now for a friendly chat about which package would be of best benefit to you and your family.

SEVENOAKS:

The Reasoning When you own your home as tenants in common you actually own half each. With our Post death Property Protection Package when the first partner dies, they leave their half into their Trust. The

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surviving partner is the Trustee of that Trust and also the Primary Beneficiary which means that as they own half and are Trustee of the other half they have complete control over the property and what happens to it. The children and/or whoever else is also nominated as ultimate Trust Beneficiaries will have access to that half of the property when the surviving partner dies. The first half of the property then is 100% securely in Trust for the beneficiaries and will not be at risk. As a result of this simple strategy and because it is not possible to sell just the survivor's half of the property, the integrity of the property is protected. While the "market value" of half a property is negligible, The Care Act 2014 guidelines do allow for this half to have a charge placed on it under a deferred payment arrangement for care fees which is why this package includes a Lasting Power of Attorney grant for Property and Financial affairs which will enable a pre-appointed Attorney to act on behalf of the survivor should they be unable to themselves and negotiate with the Local Authority for the property to be rented out and a percentage of the income given to the Local Authority instead of a charge being placed. The second half of the property would then ultimately go into the Trust for access by the nominated beneficiaries when the surviving partner eventually dies.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS:

www.thywill.co.uk

01732 605411 01892 278171

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SO

OUT AND ABOUT

 GROOMBRIDGE GREENERY

Spring snowdrops at Groombridge Place PICTURE BY CRAIG MATTHEWS

Have you got a local picture you’d like to see printed?

Email info@somagazines.co.uk

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS

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23/03/2016 10:30

Considering facial cosmetic surgery?

Free information evening and complimentary one-to-one advice sessions available for men and women.

Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital will be holding a free facial cosmetic information evening with one of our top Facial Plastic Surgeons (Maxillofacial Surgeon), Mr Darryl Coombes. The evening will consist of drinks and canapes on arrival, an introduction from the Surgeon, followed by a compl imentary l O minute consultation where you will have the opportunity to talk to Mr Coombes in private about all your cosmetic surgery questions. He will explain to you the procedures most suitable for you as well as the risks and benefits of surgery.

Come and find out more about the procedure you are considering.

These events are popular so please book your place.

Procedures performed by Mr Coombes include: Rhinoplasty- nose reshaping . A large nose o r a bent nose ca n be su rgica lly corrected to give a more aesthetic and pleasing appearance.

Blepharoplasty & brow lift surgery- Age ca n give the fa ce a tired look and su rgi ca l tec hniques to the fo rehead and eyelids ca n in stantly rejuve nate the fa ce

WHEN:

giving a more you thful appearance.

Thursday 28th April

Otoplasty- su rge ry fo r prominent ears. Ears that sti ck out ca n be unsightly yet a simple procedure to "pin back" the ear ca n have a very positive effect and

TIME: l 9: 00 - 21 :00

improve confidence in stantly.

Removal of unsightly moles- A simple and effective procedure to improve

WHERE:

fa c ial appearance.

Facelift & neck lift surgery- Ageing ca n have various effects o n the fa ce suc h as sagg ing skin , jowls and w rinkles. This type of su rgery rejuvenates the fa ce and M r Coombes w ill suggest the best tec hnique according to individual need s.

Jaw reshaping surgery- The protruding c hin o r the underdeveloped c hin ca n be c hanged by reshaping the bone of the lowe r jaw.

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

Non-surgical facial rejuvenation procedures- In addition to anti-wrinkle treatments, M r Coombes also performs the "One Stitc h Fa ce Lift" o r " Lun c htime Fa ce Lift" these are minimally invas ive procedures that ca n be performed as a sho rt ou tpatient procedure w ith minimal "downtime" w ith in stant rejuve nating resu lts.

Call: 01892 882 870 Or visit nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/tunbridge-wells

; ; Nuffield Health FOR THE LOVE OF LIFE

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MY RANT

RINGING TRUE

Are our phones making us anti-social, asks Jody from Hawkhurst…

I AM WRITING about young people as a relatively ‘young’ person myself and am sharing my rant with So readers about our frightening dependence on our phones. I have to admit I am slightly guilty of this myself, but want to declare this protest as a mirror to society with the headline ‘we need to change’.

It seems to have become the norm for individuals in the street to be scrolling on their phones, perhaps due to the fear of being idle or simply that it is far more

interesting than their surroundings? We have accepted this, but our reliance on our phones when in company? Surely we should draw the line there. I spot it in bars and restaurants where a group of friends are mute with their eyes glued to their screens, completely infatuated with whatever is going on in their cyber world and not paying too much attention to each other.

I’d like to ask why does this happen? Do they think they look really popular if they are constantly checking their apps and

texting other friends? Are their friends around them not that interesting?

Because essentially, that is the impression they’re conveying.

Even with my own friends, I find it particularly rude when they prefer the entertainment of a stranger’s hipster breakfast or another trivial cat video than my own story of making vegetable soups using my new machine! Is it really that hard to give our friends the attention they so lovingly deserve, even if the stories are mediocre?

The problem continues when away from friends too; it has become all too easy to hide behind a phone to prevent confrontation. Too often my plans have been cancelled by a rather poor one line text message of ‘sorry I’m tired and won’t be coming out. Next time though’, despite already being on my way out!

How frustrating!

Of course, the counter argument is that social media, and our mobiles enhances our contact with one another. Don’t get me wrong, I have been thankful to instant messaging services that allow my friends and I to make spontaneous plans or to stay in contact with long-distance companions, however, I fear it may eventually replace the physical social contact we have.

Are we facing a downward spiral which could lead us to lose the art of conversation?

I really do hope not, because spoken conversation is far more enriching than restricted text language that is scattered among emojis of thumbs up and monkey’s faces. Technology is developing and expanding at a rapid pace, enabling phones to become more elaborate, which I fear will further affect our social interactions in the future.

I want to finish by challenging readers to think before you take out your phone in company by default and ask ‘should I really be doing this now? Can it wait?’ I’m sure the answer is, that it probably can.

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

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24/03/2016 12:31

SO

OVERHEARD

THIS MONTH TACITUS IS AWAY, SO INSTEAD HERE ARE SOME OF THE BEST COMMENTS WE’VE OVERHEARD LOCALLY…

OVERHEARD IN A TENTERDEN CAFE “I just feel as though the garden looks a little common without a pergola.”

OVERHEARD IN PETS AT HOME, TUNBRIDGE WELLS Woman: “I haven’t got any change for the car park…I could buy a hamster to get some?”

Man: “No, hamsters are a tenner. Let’s go to Halfords and buy an air freshener.”

OVERHEARD IN A TUNBRIDGE WELLS BAR “You look like my ex-girlfriend Caroline, only fatter.”

OVERHEARD IN AN OFFICE IN TUNBRIDGE WELLS Woman 1: “It can’t be long until you get married now, are you getting excited?”

Woman 2: “Yes, I can’t wait!”

Man: “It’s not the wedding that’s the problem, it’s the lifelong commitment afterwards.”

OVERHEARD ON THE TRAIN FROM SEVENOAKS TO LONDON Mum: “Now Phoebe, don’t forget to look out for the Houses of Parliament when we get to London.”

Phoebe: “Are they what daddy calls the houses of idiots?”

OVERHEARD IN MARKS AND SPENCER, SEVENOAKS “What I love about this hummus is the addition of olive oil. It just doesn’t taste right when you buy it elsewhere.”

Visit www.somagazine.co.uk every Wednesday for more overheard

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SO

CELEBRITY

TAYLOR’S TOTALS Earnings in 2015  £56million Instagram followers  69million Grammy awards  10 Guinness World Records  5 Worldwide record sales  37million

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CELEBRITY

S

SO

The Tale of Taylor

She’s the girl next door who earns more a year than Beyoncé, Elton John and The Rolling Stones. We take a look at Taylor Swift’s phenomenal rise to superstardom he’s the international superstar

involvement in entertainment, but I was obsessed

with, among other achievements,

with it and so they did their research and read up

10 Grammy awards, a place on the

about it to help me in every way they could.”

Forbes ‘100 most powerful women’

Taylor’s determination paid off – by 16 she was

list and a mere 37million album

signed to a record label and releasing her eponymous

sales worldwide (and counting).

debut album Taylor Swift, which was instantly met

And she’s only 26. No, you didn’t

with critical acclaim. Unlike most teen stars of the time,

read that wrong. It would be easy to

Taylor was producing country music for teenagers to

assume that this list of accolades and

listen to – and both the public and critics alike were

achievements belong to someone twice, or thrice, her

impressed with what they heard. Her album sold

age, but no, Taylor Alison Swift, born in 1989, is flying

39,000 copies in its first week, and to date has sold over

high as the world’s biggest popstar, and her global

5million worldwide.

domination shows no signs of waning.

Born in Pennsylvania, the first years of Taylor’s life

Swift’s success continued to mount, and when her second album, Fearless topped the Billboard 200 at

were fairly normal. She attended regular schools,

number one for 11 consecutive weeks, went seven

summered in New Jersey and had an interest in poetry.

times platinum and became the best-selling album of

Then, aged nine she developed a passion for music,

2009 in the US, it seemed she was a bona fide star.

enrolled in vocal lessons and began performing locally.

Despite being primarily a country musician, her

Aged 11, she watched a documentary on country

talent was making waves in the music industry, and at

singer Faith Hill and decided that was her destiny – she

the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), she was

needed to be in Nashville to make it as a country star.

nominated for, and subsequently won the Best Female

Luckily, her parents obliged, and when she was 14 they

Video award for You Belong with Me.

relocated to help Taylor realise her dreams.

“They knew nothing about the industry and had no

Although Taylor was the only country star ever to be awarded a VMA, her win wasn’t without controversy

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CELEBRITY

I just feel like it’s not like it’s a big secret that I write songs about my life. People know when they get involved with me that, if we have some sort of significant relationship, it’s going to find its way into being inspiration at some POINT or another – namely because rapper Kanye West stormed the stage during her acceptance speech and suggested that the accolade should have gone to Beyoncé. This interruption sparked a worldwide backlash, and resulted in a press frenzy surrounding Swift – those who hadn’t heard of the rising star before the awards ceremony were certainly aware of her afterwards.

“I just told myself I had to perform, and I tried to convince myself that maybe this wasn’t that big of a deal. But that was the most happenstance thing to ever happen in my career.”

As controversy goes, Taylor Swift has faced very little of it. For someone so young with a career spanning a decade, you would expect there to be stories of debauchery, partying, drink and drugs, but the star barely ends up on a ‘worst dressed’ list, let alone finding herself in the papers for all the wrong reasons. This could be, in part, that she isn’t the partying type, but it also seems that she possesses a self-awareness, and an understanding that her career is precious; something that she could lose quickly.

“I’m in the news every single day for multiple different reasons.

And it can feel, at times, if you let your anxiety get the better of you, like everybody’s waiting for you to really mess up – and then you’ll be done. If you do something that defines your character to be not what the public thought you were, that’s the biggest risk.”

T

Now settled with superstar DJ Calvin Harris, the furore surrounding Taylor’s love life is perhaps the closest she’s come to backlash from fans and the media. Her past relationships include some high profile names, including actor Jake Gyllenhaal, singer John Mayer and most notably One Direction’s Harry Styles. Her relationship with the latter, whom she dated for a few months in 2013 saw her private life propelled into the public eye in a way that it hadn’t been before.

“The only thing anyone wanted to write about me was about me and some guy. It was really damaging. You’re thinking, ‘everybody goes on dates when they’re 22. It’s fine, right?’

Nope. Not when you’re in this situation, and everything you do is blown out of proportion and expanded upon. And all of a sudden, there’s an overriding opinion that doesn’t accurately reflect how you actually live your life.”

As her music began to evolve into a poppier sound, Taylor’s songwriting became more personal. Suddenly, everybody wanted to know who these hits were referencing, and speculation moved on from Taylor’s relationships, to exactly who she was referring to in her various hits. To this date she’s never divulged who each song is about, although it’s widely believed much of her 2014 album 1989 is written about Styles, while hits like We We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together from her 2012 album Red Red is thought to reference her relationship and subsequent breakup with Gyllenhaal.

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EVENTS at ONE WARWICK PARK HOTEL

The Function Room is 14 2 square metres and benefits from its own exclusive bar area, cloak storage and with a neutral decor is the perfect backdrop to host your bespoke function or event for up to I80 people.

Contact us on: 01892 552 590 I info@onewarwickpark.co.uk www.onewarwickpark.co.uk

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30/03/2016 09:51

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CELEBRITY

s

“I just feel like it’s not like it’s a big secret that I

“A lot of the time I’ll reach out to people to tell them

write songs about my life. People know when they

they’re great and a friendship will come out of them.

get involved with me that, if we have some sort of

Friendship often comes from admiration and that feels

significant relationship, it’s going to find its way into

like a natural way to be friends with someone because

being inspiration at some point or another.”

you’ve established you respect what the person does.”

Post-Styles and pre-Harris, Taylor refrained from

With great power comes great responsibility, and

dating for fear of further speculation over her

there’s no denying that Taylor has power – over her

personal life. Instead, she spent these years building

carefully constructed image, over her music choices

her friendship circle. Suddenly, she was being

(her record label were against her releasing her first ‘full

pictured almost daily with a different celebrity female

pop’ album and wanted a country influence – she went

– lunching, exercising or shopping. For the girl who

against them and her 1989 album has currently sold

had often spoken about her unpopularity at school, it

almost 9million copies worldwide), and over a great

seemed as though the tables had definitely turned.

many things other stars wouldn’t have a say in at all.

Taylor’s ‘squad’ as they’re now known, has become

In 2014 she pulled her music from streaming service

one of the most coveted social circles in the celebrity

Spotify, due to the lack of royalties paid to artists, and

sphere – everyone from supermodels Karlie Kloss and

just a few months later in June 2015 she threatened

Cara Delevingne, to Girls star Lena Dunham and singer

to do the same with Apple music, as she highlighted

Ellie Goulding are part of the clan, and are regularly

the fact artists weren’t making money during the three

pictured with Swift, be it a girls’ night in plastered over

month free trial. Within 24 hours of her writing an open

Instagram or backstage at an awards party. Taylor even

letter to the music corporation and posting it online, the

enlisted the help of 16 of these friends when shooting

company agreed to change their policy and pay artists.

her Bad Blood video last year – and with an all celebrity

In business and in her personal life, Taylor seems

cast, it’s probably no surprise that it’s racked up almost

to have it sussed. Perhaps it’s because she’s been

900million YouTube views, won a Grammy and in its

a decade in the industry or perhaps it’s her unique

week of release pulled in more viewers in the US than

approach to life, but she certainly seems wise

network television shows.

beyond her 26 years.

I want to leave a trail of people behind me who had gotten better opportunities or felt better about themselves because of me or smiled because of me 38

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23/03/2016 10:26

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24/03/2016 12:32

SO

ADVERTORIAL

A SUPERLATIVE EXPERIENCE Opening its doors in The Pantiles area of Tunbridge Wells in June, One Warwick Park Hotel promises to embody ‘contemporary elegance’, combining the old and the new to create a truly reimagined luxury experience for guests. We find out more about what to expect this summer

O

ne Warwick Park, an elegant 39-room hotel, will open in Tunbridge Wells’ historic Pantiles district this June. The new property, designed by HMY architects in collaboration with interior architects KTB and interior designers Envy London, will offer stylish and contemporary interior design, as well as a carefully curated experience in each of its rooms, suites and entertainment spaces.

The hotel will inhabit a creatively reimagined brew house and schoolhouse, taking the previously unconnected structures and creating a harmonious and unified building, filled with light. A feature gallery space will link the two buildings and promises to surprise with a stylish, shifting canvas of showcases from local, national and international artists.

“Our biggest challenge is now our greatest achievement,” says Melanie

40

Ellis, director of Envy London. “Creating the gallery space has been a true feat of engineering, with builders BJBabb Ltd taking the building down to basement level, and then sub-basement level – no easy accomplishment in a busy town centre – creating a unique link connecting buildings old and new.

“The task of marrying the new with the period building and its features has been a wonderful success. We embraced the irregularities of the period architecture and made the most of features such as a listed staircase, which could have been so easily sealed away, to create a very special property, full of charm.”

Bedrooms and suites at One Warwick Park will focus on comfort, with no detail of the guest experience overlooked, from lighting and linen, to intuitive powerpoint positioning.

“We started with a list of everything

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INTERIORS

that irritated us about staying at a hotel, from poor lighting and badly designed bathrooms, to sockets in the wrong place and confusing directions,” continues Melanie. “We then analysed a guest’s practical requirements, ensuring we created a comfortable, functional and relaxing environment, where guests would feel calm and cosseted. It is this level of attention to detail that makes One Warwick Park different to the usual ‘identikit’ hotels.”

Each room will be individually styled to make the most of the space, ensuring intrigue in every area. A neutral palette of five different colour schemes and the use of beautiful, bespoke furnishings sourced from local ateliers adds to the distinctive and contemporary style.

A variety of room-types will appeal to the range of clientele, from business travellers to honeymooners and families. The Duplex Suite, overlooking the quaint Kent cobbles, pairs period features such as a listed staircase, with a fresh, elegant design, perfect for bridal parties or families.

The three Deluxe Balcony rooms offer a private landscaped terrace with views over Tunbridge Wells’ tapestry of assorted architecture. All bedrooms will feature a king or super king bed with locally, hand-finished furnishings, large flat screen TVs, luxurious Temple Spa toiletries, complimentary refreshments and Wi-Fi. Double Rooms will

be priced from £99 per night.

A double-height atrium will be at the heart of the hotel; a light, flexible space for entertainment and celebration.

There will be four additional locations to dine and have a drink throughout the day: a resident’s lounge, the 75-cover restaurant, The Terrace and a quieter snug for relaxation.

A private dining area and a range of meeting and licensed events spaces will offer flexibility for celebrations or company gatherings of up to 180 people.

The Old School House – the 140-sq m function room and archetype of beautiful simplicity – provides a contemporary white backdrop, while retaining the School House’s 19th-century timber vaults and

“There will be four additional locations to dine and have a drink throughout the day: a resident’s lounge, the 60-cover restaurant, The Terrace and a quieter snug for relaxation”

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15-ft arched windows, creating a unified space filled with light, energy and vitality.

This considered approach to design extends to One Warwick Park’s staff uniforms, which have been designed by French couture designer and stylist to the stars, Nicole Manier.

“The uniform complements the hotel’s contemporary interior, while being comfortable and stylish,” says Nicole.

“The slim-fit suits will be made from 100% superfine navy-blue Merino wool, paired with crisp, white cotton shirts with a classic herringbone weave and gold silk ties and scarves. The result is a cool, classic, elegant ensemble.”

Louise Clark, managing director of Markerstudy Leisure, owner-operators of One Warwick Park, says: “We’re incredibly excited about opening our doors in June. Every element of the hotel has been carefully crafted and curated to ensure our guests enjoy a superlative experience. We want it to feel like their home from home, where comfort, ease and beauty are priorities. Our staff will be handpicked, expertly trained and knowledgeable, to make certain our guests receive a well-presented and personalised welcome.”

One Warwick Park will welcome guests from June 2016.

One Warwick Park Hotel Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TA 01892 552 590 www.onewarwickpark.co.uk info@onewarwickpark.co.uk @onewarwickpark

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24/03/2016 12:32

THE LOOK

SO

FASHION INSIDER

WITH FASHION MONTH OVER, STYLIST CATHERINE DE CREVECOEUR FROM WWW.STYLEPOURMOI.COM LOOKS AT THE TRENDS TO EXPECT OVER THE AUTUMN/WINTER 16 SEASON

u

nlike last winter’s mood, which celebrated women through big, bright and bold collections, this season brought a new sense of soft femininity, dark romanticism and a touch of old Hollywood glamour to London’s

CHRISTOPHER KANE

fashion week catwalk shows. Established as well as upcoming designers were focused on creativity and craftsmanship which resulted in a fashion fusion of metallic details, shiny fabrics, delicate lace, faux fur, sheer layers, velvet, leather

HOLLY FOULTON

and silk to name a few. Black was by far the hero colour for the season whilst hints of muted pinks, oranges and blues were spread across the collections. Here are some of the trends you can expect to see trickling into our shops this September:..

AMANDA WAKELEY

Slip dress

bomber jacket

all that shimmers

One of the hottest trends for this Spring/Summer, slip dresses were seen teamed with tougher outerwear on the catwalk for next winter.

The outerwear trend of choice, the bomber jacket, in all shapes, textures, prints and styles, is here to stay.

Head-to-toe gowns in shimmering fabrics brought cocktail glamour dressing to a new level.

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THE LOOK

DAKS

CHRISTOPHER KANE

TOGA

Velvet

faux fur

supersized coat

A sea of velvet took over fashion week.

From black to midnight hues and bohemian greens, this fabric has certainly made a big comeback.

This is the trend that keeps on giving, from beautiful scarves to bold statement jackets, a must-have for Autumn/Winter.

From super-king duvet coats to oversized military jackets, the bigger, the better when it comes to coats next season.

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THE LOOK

THREE FLOOR

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PALMER HARDINGE

Gothic glamour

Sheer fabrics

Capes

A sense of dark romanticism was portrayed through lavish dresses with frilled bibs, sheer dresses, lace detailing and muted hues.

Barely-there metallic sheer fabrics brought a touch of femininity through structured outfits.

Seen in all shapes, from long ethereal evening capes to workwear ready ones, the cape was another outerwear trend that captured everyone’s eye.

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IISE JACOBSEN HORNB.fEK

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No 6. High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells TN1 1 UX I Tel: 01892 537 241 www.ilsejacobsen.com I II) ILSE JACOBSEN UK I CJ llseJacobsenUK

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THE LOOK

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r u o y p u c i Ch tyle S FROM LUXE LOOKS TO BOHO-INSPIRED OUTFITS, THIS MONTH’S FASHION SHOOT ENCAPSULATES FEMININITY WITH A MODERN TWIST. BOLD PATTERNS TAKE CENTRE STAGE, WHILE NEUTRAL SHADES PULL THE LOOKS TOGETHER, GIVING THEM A CHIC EDGE. FIND ALL OF THESE GORGEOUS ITEMS IN BOUTIQUES ON YOUR LOCAL HIGH STREETS NOW…

STYLIST: Catherine De Crevecoeur www.stylepourmoi.com STYLIST’S ASSISTANT: Helen Williams www.misshelenwilliams.com PHOTOGRAPHER: Nick Matthews www.nick-matthews.co.uk HAIR: Gary Russell, The Chapel www.thechapel.co.uk MAKEUP: David Hynes davidpatrickhynes@gmail.com MODEL: Chloe Davis

With thanks to The Chapel Hairdressing, Tunbridge Wells

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STRENSTROMS SHIRT £93 H ILSE JACOBSEN INTROPIA JACKET £260 H THE CLEVER DRESSER MAC DREAM SKINNY JEANS £99 H ILSE JACOBSEN VIMODA STAR CLUTCH £79 H KITCH PECKHAM RYE SILK SCARF £65 H THE BASEMENT PINK FACET FEATHER NECKLACE £35 H ILSE JACOBSEN TOM FORD SUNGLASSES £249 H KITCH

FW

Gilet fox, £599 Kitch

Pure Collection

Cashmere crew neck sweater, £99

Pure Collection Slim leg jean, £79

Michael Kors

Salmon pink tote, £260 Fenwick

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ALICE & OLIVIA DRESS £515 H THE CLEVER DRESSER INTROPIA WEDGE SHOES £209 H THE CLEVER DRESSER PORADA GUILDA ARMCHAIR £1,558 H LIME MODERN LIVING

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Ladies Designer Wear, Accessories and Shoes

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

01892 513 613 www.kitchdothing.co.uk

tJnswear

Contact details are: Tel: 01732 459351 4a Bank Street, Sevenoaks, Kent TN131UW

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SUNDAY MORNING OVERSIZED MAN SHIRT £219 H THE CLEVER DRESSER SUNDAY MORNING EMILIO SHORT £105 H THE CLEVER DRESSER NAVY GILET £70 H CASHARA B’CHARMD NECKLACE £65 H CASHARA INTROPIA WEDGE SHOES £209 H THE CLEVER DRESSER

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Ted baker

Sterling checked jacket, £305

Ted Baker

Sterling checked trousers, £125

Endurance

Slick Rick shirt, £60 All Fenwicks

MISS JUNE JACKET £249 H KITCH DES PETITS HAUTS JUMPSUIT £229 H ETOILE CARA TASSEL NECKLACE £49 H KITCH

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DENIM SHIRT £99 H KITCH YAYA WAISTCOAT £79 H KITCH CHLOBO PEACE PENDANT NECKLACE £129 H KITCH CHLOBO ANGEL WING NECKLACE £129 H KITCH CARA TASSEL NECKLACE £49 H KITCH

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MAN ON TREND

SPRING BRINGS A WEALTH OF INSPIRATION FOR MEN’S FASHION

T

his season sees a huge emphasis on layering of varying textures. Think a combination of

khaki on denim or suede on wool.

With the weather not yet warm enough to show off your arms, make a statement instead with an on-trend jacket. Denim and suede outerwear was draped over models on the catwalk during London Fashion Week and now can find their way in to your wardrobe too. Subtle styling tweaks can instantly update a look such as wearing the collar up, wearing a jacket open and rolled sleeves. Whilst skinny jeans are still permeating the high street, trousers are fashioning a more relaxed fit with a key style incorporating a straight or tapered cut.

HANCOCK JACKET, £495 THE BASEMENT

MAC JOG N’ JACKET H £140

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MAC LENNY JEANS H £89

PAMPEONO BELT H £65

ALL FROM THE BASEMENT

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Stockists

HERE’S WHERE YOU CAN BUY THE GORGEOUS ITEMS FROM THIS MONTH’S SHOOT

THE BASEMENT

6 High Street Tunbridge Wells TN1 1UX 01892 537 241 www.facebook.com/TheBasementTW

ILSE JACOBSEN

6 High Street Tunbridge Wells TN1 1UX 01892 537 241 www.ilsejacobsen.com

LIME MODERN LIVING

86 Calverley Road Tunbridge Wells TN1 2UN 01892 544 846 www.limemodernliving.co.uk

CASHARA

23 High Street Tenterden TN30 6BJ 01580 761 222 www.cashara.co.uk

ETOILE

4a Bank Street Sevenoaks TN13 1UW 01732 459 351

THE CLEVER DRESSER

6 Bank Street Sevenoaks TN13 1UW 01732 453 002 www.thecleverdresser.com

KITCH

1 High Street Tunbridge Wells TN1 1UL 01892 513 613 www.kitchclothing.co.uk

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SARAH GILLMORE PERSONAL

S T Y L

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Are you at a relationship-crossroad, or going through a big life change, and need a lift with style, elegance and allure?

Do you need advice on how to represent yourself authentically and stylishly for your business brand?

Or need advice on how to move out of a style-rut which is no longer true to the person you are?

For a warm, intuitive, positive Personal Styling experience which is really tailored to the person you are Contact Sarah via www.sarahgillmorestylist.com or sarah@sarahgi 11 morestyl ist.com

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SHOP TIPS

WITH THE SIGNS OF SPRING BLOOMING, BLUEWATER HAS TEAMED UP WITH JOHN LEWIS PERSONAL STYLIST NICKY DYE TO UNVEIL TOP TIPS ON HOW TO SPRING CLEAN YOUR WARDROBE AND UNVEIL THE SEASON’S SUMMER-READY TRENDS 1. Sometimes it’s great to have a proper

still right for you and if you’re ever

purge of your wardrobe but you don’t

likely to wear them again. It’s hard –

have to rush clearing. The sorting

clothes have sentimental value – but

process can be spread across a few

you’ve got to be brutal, especially

days, so if you need, give yourself

if you’re short on space.

the time to thoroughly look at each

4.Organise your new wardrobe and

item and make a definite and

invest in hangers and boxes. Sorting

thought-out decision.

your cupboard in a neater and more

2. Put all the contents of your wardrobe

functional way doesn’t just look great,

on the floor or bed, so that the items are

it helps you navigate your clothes and

visible. This will make it easier to

outfits better too – making it easier to

instinctively pick items that you can then

make quicker decisions in the morning!

divide into three piles – a yes pile, a no

5. Pick five irreplaceable garments for

pile and a maybe pile. Stock the yeses in

each season that you can’t live without.

the cupboard and throw out the no’s!

Whittle the selection to items that you

3. With items you’re unsure about, ask

can use in at least three different styles

yourself: have you worn them in the past

and place them in a distinct section of

year? If the answer is no, then you need

your wardrobe where they have a

to have a long, hard think about if they’re

prime position.

The personal stylists at John Lewis recommend the following picks for the new season

John Lewis

Navy Hepburn button crepe jacket £89

Hobbs

White Winifred shirt £79

Oasis

Tan suedette tab detail skirt £38

Mint Velvet

Patch pocket mini skirt £59

Kin

Blue and pink abstract print £75

Head to Bluewater to try on the latest fashion trends, and with over 300 stores, shoppers will find an unrivalled mix of fashion brands offering the latest trends and buys for every occasion.

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Georg Jensen Koppel Grande Date

BASELWORLD 2016

We profile some of the biggest brands and most breath-taking timepieces on display at this year’s most important marketplace and trendsetting platform for the world’s luxury watch and jewellery industry Each spring, the city of Basel in Switzerland

set the tone for the coming year.

Such was the case with 2016’s watch

plays host to Baselworld, far and away the most prestigious event on the international

displays, which boasted cutting-edge

watch and jewellery industry’s calendar.

timepieces from the likes of Patek Philippe,

At this sparkling showcase, around 2,100

Tudor, Chopard and Breitling. Together,

exhibitors from over 45 countries present

these industry leaders captivated audiences

some of their latest and greatest pieces to

and unveiled their most recent ranges,

over 94,000 visitors.

many of which featured contemporary

This year’s event was certainly no

twists on classic designs.

For a taste of which models were on

exception, celebrating the innovation and creativity that has gone into the most

display, we’ve rounded up a selection

remarkable collections on Earth over

of the market’s biggest players – along

the last 12 months. Over ‘eight days of

with some expert commentary from Her

brilliance’, the momentous occasion –

Majesty The Queen’s jeweller, G. Collins

inaugurated by Swiss Federal Councillor

& Sons – to find out more about the

Simonetta Sommaruga – introduced some

chronometers you won’t want to miss

trendsetting ranges that have well and truly

throughout 2016…

Patek Philippe World Time Chronograph Aficionados, collectors and connoisseurs of mechanical timepieces will be awed when they see the new Patek Philippe World Time Chronograph. It combines the Geneva manufacturer’s patented World Time mechanism with a proprietary self-winding chronograph movement, which comes in a round white-gold case and a dial with a blue, manually guillochéd centre. www.patek.com JEWELLER’S COMMENT, G. COLLINS & SONS: “A brand new model from Patek Philippe this year, combining the famous World Time complication and a chronograph in this 18ct white gold case.

The centre of the dial is hand-guillochéd, which catches the light beautifully.

Definitely one of our favourite pieces at the show.”

The Koppel Grande Date adds a new dimension to Henning Koppel’s design, incorporating content without disrupting the clarity of the original, as a result of the space offered by the 41mm. Featuring a large date between the central axis and the twelve o’clock position, the watch retains its classic Scandinavian elegance. www.georgjensen.com JEWELLER’S COMMENT, G. COLLINS & SONS: “The Koppel Grande Date small seconds displays perfect finesse. The watch has a sleek, minimalist face, mixed with the fluent lines of the case. Beneath this classic exterior lies a Swiss-made, automatic movement, giving this watch the perfect balance between style and precision.”

Chopard L.U.C Perpetual Chrono An authentic collector’s watch for modern gentlemen, our new L.U.C Perpetual Chrono combines a hand-wound chronograph and a finely crafted perpetual calendar within an unprecedented L.U.C movement.

The L.U.C Perpetual Chrono flaunts one of the most sophisticated styles and constructions in the world of haute horology. www.chopard.com JEWELLER’S COMMENT, G. COLLINS & SONS: “Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the LUC collection, this is a limited edition watch with only 250 pieces being made. With a handguillochéd dial and 18ct rose gold case, this watch oozes sophistication.”

Patek Philippe Annual Calendar The second debut is the Annual Calendar, which very tastefully recalls the 20th anniversary of the patented Annual Calendar (its successful career began in Basel in 1996, and was voted Watch of the Year a few months later). Since then, the Annual Calendar has been crafted in 21 versions. www.patek.com JEWELLER’S COMMENT, G. COLLINS & SONS: “1996 saw the release of the annual calendar mechanism for Patek Philippe, so to celebrate its 20th anniversary, this piece has been launched with two beautiful new dials: grey with white gold breguet numerals, and cream with rose gold breguet numerals.

Pure elegance.”

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Chopard L.U.C XPS 1860

Tudor Heritage Advisor Cognac

Our L.U.C XPS 1860 pays homage to the first watch in the L.U.C collection, the L.U.C 1860, launched 20 years ago. This model, with its hand-guillochĂŠd dial and ultra-thin case, is a contemporary interpretation of a great classic, combining discreet elegance and sobriety with our first Chopard Manufacture movement. www.chopard.com

The Heritage Advisor is a reinterpretation of the famous Tudor alarm watch from 1957. An up-to-date version of a classic, the watch retains the original shape and proportions of its case, lugs and glass, its dauphine hands and bevelled markers, as well as the design and colour of its red alarm hand. www.tudorwatch.com

Breitling Avenger Hurricane

Tudor Style Fluted Bezel

Its name sets the tone: with the Avenger Hurricane, Breitling is launching a new chronograph that pushes all existing boundaries in terms of instruments for professionals. Extreme power, with a 50mm XXL diameter, a sturdy construction equipped with lateral protective reinforcements and an all-black look, enhanced by tallow accents and aviation-inspired, stencil-type numerals. www.breitling.com

Tudor is adding a range of new aesthetic features to its Style line of classic watches with the introduction of a fluted bezel and coloured dials. The Style line provides a contemporary take on the classic and elegant wristwatch, a form of expression that Tudor has continued to tap into throughout its history. www.tudorwatch.com

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SWAROVSKI TUNBRIDGE WELLS 204 ROYAL VICTORIA PLACE , TUNBRIDGE WELLS , TN l 2SS.

Miranda Kerr

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TIMELESS VALUES We take a look at the 10 principles that make up the Patek Philippe Seal

Independence At the heart of the brand’s spirit is total creative freedom and independence. Movements are developed and manufactured in-house, according to the company’s very own quality criteria of excellence.

Rarity At Patek, over 200 models are in regular production, produced in small series of between 10 and several hundred watches, and fitted with a vast array of in-house movements.

Value In addition to commanding a high price, a Patek Philippe retains and often increases its value over the years, making it an investment for the present and the future.

Service The company makes it its duty to provide the highest standard of after-sales service, ensuring the watch continues to receive the care and attention it requires for continued reliability.

Quality & fine workmanship From movement and external elements to technical and aesthetic aspects, the development, manufacture and assembly of the finest timepieces in the world remains the company’s goal.

Tradition A unique heritage and a combination of experience, ingenuity and passion come together to tell the story of Patek Philippe’s role in safeguarding Geneva’s fine art of traditional watchmaking.

Aesthetics The mechanical perfection of any one of these watches is reflected in its beauty.

An understated, timeless style ensures they outlive passing fashions without losing their appeal and modernity.

Emotion Far from just a watch, a Patek is unique and personal to the owner, often steeped in memories and related to a personal event specific to who’s wearing it.

Heritage Each Patek is designed to last from one generation to the next, continuing a tradition, perpetuating a unique heritage and creating a bridge between the past and the future.

Innovation Patek’s pioneering role is seen in over 80 patents, 20 of which are of major importance to the history of horology. Technical progress advances functionality, long-term reliability and precision.

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Join us today & choose from 2 mini treats for £35 or 3 for £50

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The Banwell Clinic is a boutique destination for skin health, anti-ageing, and cosmetic procedures.

We offer the latest cutting edge technologies for body contouring and facial treatments.

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Skin Care I Skin Health Non-surgical body contouring Mole Checks I Mole Removal Breast surgery I Body contouring Mummy makeovers I Facial Rejuvenation The Banwell Clinic

01 342 330302 help@banwellclinic.com

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

● BURST

YOUR BUBBLE

As

■ KEEPING KOHL One of the top pieces of skincare advice is to always remove your makeup before bed, but A-List actress Drew Barrymore has revealed that she pays heed to the advice and actually applies cosmetics before bed. The star revealed that to get her signature smoky eye look, she does her night-time skincare routine before going to sleep, but then reapplies a kohl eyeliner, so that come morning she’s left with the perfect smudgy eye makeup.

We might just try Drew’s tip for ourselves…

Lovers of Prosecco, look away now because what you’re about to read may make you shed a tear into your Champagne flutes… dentists have revealed that drinking Prosecco can do serious damage to your teeth.

One of the sweeter sparkling wines, not only does it contain around one teaspoon of sugar per glass, the carbon dioxide bubbles are acidic and can cause enamel erosion. The damage caused by the drink is now becoming so common, dentists are dubbing the effects ‘Prosecco smile.’

➧ FACE FOOD While we’re encouraged to use anti-ageing creams from our early 20s to retain youthful skin, research has now revealed that in order to combat signs of ageing, we should be feeding our skin the right foods too. Recent studies have found that the higher our glycaemic index intake, which comes from foods such as white bread, sugar and pasta, the earlier we’ll start to show the signs of ageing. And, while it was once believed eating chocolate had no effect on spots, there is now evidence to suggest eating sweets and unrefined sugars can cause acne breakouts. Experts are suggesting adopting a low GI diet and avoiding sugary foods could be the way to better skin.

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11 ?!JMAW/fl/?!Jtinw Thermage is for when you want to tackle the effects of ageing on your skin.

~

Thermage is for when you want to look younger and you want real results - but don't want the downtime that comes with surgery.

therm age"

Thermage fits into any lifestyle and your current beauty regimen:

Eyes

Face

Body

· · · · ·

A single treatment that delivers results Non-invasive and clinically proven to be safe Minimal downtime. so it's easy to fit into your routine Real change you just can't get from lotions and creams Targeted. effective treatment that can help address the signs of ageing on many areas of the body

Enjoy 20% off your treatment if booked before 30 April 2016.

Call 01892 513535 or visit: www.chilstonclinic.co.uk The Chilston Clinic. 12 Rusthall Road. Tunbridge Wells. Kent. TN4 SRA

SaV1driV1e's® PILATES

Q

CareQua1ity Commission

ill"' SaV1driV1e's

~

massage clinic

Kent's Premier Pilates, Barre and TRX studio! with 60 classes a week, open every day!

"It is always brilliant! Sandrine works the athletes hard and it is fun too!"

DAME KELLY HOLMES, Double Olympic Champion

Our Classes: Mat Pilates • Reformer Pilates • Pregnancy Pilates • Mums and babies Pilates • Back rehabilitation • BarrePlus • TRX suspension training • Chair Pilates • Children & Teen Pilates • Foam roller I trigger points Our Massages: Holistic • Sports • Deep tissue • Trigger points • Hot stone • Pregnancy • Argan oil

www.sandrinespilates.co.uk I] sandrinespilates @sandrinepilates 1 st Floor, 12A London Rd, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1 DE • 01892 618493 • info@sandrinespilates.co.uk 70

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DON'T SUFFER FROM PAINFUL AND UNSIGHTLY LEGS Endovenous Laser Ablation is a revolutionary treatment that is minimally invasive and highly effective at treating varicose veins.

Treatment is less than one hour and you can go home the same day. You ea n return to norm aI activity the fol lowing day with little or no pain .

You can feel assured that our standards of care and facilities are of the highest quality.

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24/03/2016 12:35

Reassurance in a heartbeat

The Wells Suite is able to offer a range of pregnancy ultrasound scans using state of the art ultrasound equipment.

You might want to make sure that there is definitely a heartbeat at 6 weeks, check your baby's growth at 16 weeks, or want the reassurance of a detailed anomaly scan at 20 weeks. Whatever your reason we can offer expert advice and reassurance in a calm and relaxed environment.

What scans are available?

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

Why choose The Wells Suite for your scan?

• No referral letter required • Accredited midwife sonographers • Consultant advice available • Flexible appointment times, including evening and weekend appointments

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

The Wells Suite

The Wells Suite Your health in safe hands

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01892 635888

www.thewellssuite.co.uk

24/03/2016 12:35

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BEAUTY

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

 JANE IREDALE

GREATSHAPE EYEBROW KIT, £26 Sometimes getting your perfect eyebrow shade from a product can be tricky, but this handy new kit from Jane Iredale ensures that each user gets a personalised shade, by mixing the botanical brow wax and a pigmented brow powder. The result?

Natural looking, perfectly groomed brows. And sophisticated packaging too. We love. www.janeiredale.co.uk

 NATURAL DERMATOLOGY

ACNE EXFOLIATOR, £18 Developed by former acne sufferer Jordan Marc Sully, this product not only helps to banish blemishes, it’s also kind to skin and smells great! Containing coconut oil and frankincense, it gently de-clogs skin and banishes impurities without being harsh and abrasive like many exfoliators. And, with anti-inflammatory properties, it’s great for calming skin too. www.naturaldermatology.com

 HYLAMIDE

MASQUARA GAIN, £20 As well as giving you gorgeously long, defined and volumised lashes, due to the natural walnut extract in the formula, Illamasqua’s new mascara progressively dyes your eyelashes. After just two weeks of use they’ll be darker, even when you’re makeup-free. The perfect holiday-prep product. www.illamasqua.com

CORRECT & CONCEAL RED, £28 Many concealers work to hide under eye shadows or facial blemishes, but ReCover’s range has been specially developed to correct skin redness.

Yellow-based pigments neutralise red tones in the skin, while concealing. Now available in shade 0-Very Light, this is great for using on the go and for covering any unwanted redness. www.recovercosmetics.com

 BOBBI BROWN

HA BLUR, £18 Not only does this new product hydrate, plump, minimise pores and blur, it does it all without the help of silica, which can cause the skin to absorb hydration and oil. Just add a little of this finisher to skin after applying makeup for an instantly flawless look – like an Instagram filter for your skin! www.hylamide.com

 ILLAMASQUA

 RECOVER

NUDE FINISH TINTED MOISTURIZER SPF 15, £29.50 This gorgeous skin tint and protective moisturiser, delivers sheer coverage that makes redness and unevenness disappear, while hydrating and refreshing skin at the same time.

Great for when you want glowing skin without the hassle of foundation – just smooth on, glow and go! www.bobbibrown.co.uk

 ROUGE BUNNY ROUGE

RAW GARDEN ANTIGO EYE SHADOW PALETTE, ¤49 Enriched with argan oil, this eyeshadow sits beautifully on the skin and can be used wet or dry to create your desired look. The natural shades are great for everyday wear, and will flatter most skintones while enhancing your eye colour. We also how this palette is packaged – beautiful outside as well as in. www.rougebunnyrouge.com

 ELEMIS

BIOTEC SKIN ENERGISING NIGHT CREAM, £85 Part of the biggest launch from Elemis since their Pro-Collagen products were unveiled 13 years ago, this new Biotec night cream revitalises the skin while you sleep. Enriched with calcium PCA, this clever cream adapts to your skin’s needs and leaves you refreshed, hydrated and replenished. www.elemis.com

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Beautiful Eyebrows, Eyes and Lips.

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Massage • facials • manicure & pedicure lash extensions • waxing • spray tan

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Semi Permanent make up by Fiona at Elite Brows, Tunbridge Wells, (., ~ HUdenborough and throughout Kent.

Elite s~~ows ro "\IV'!

Call07956984109 or visit www.elite-brows.co.uk

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This is Sally's Concept1M Facelift story I work in sales with a major property developer in London. I certainly don't feel anywhere near my 62 years of age, but I'd certainly started to look it!

For quite a while I'd been concerned about how the ageing process had started to affect my face and that I'd acquired a constant 'tired' look due to saggy eyelids. Also, this sagginess seemed to have spread to my neck to the extent that I would worry about going out.

, , I was instantly drawn to the Conceptâ&#x201E;˘ Facelift as it offered the same long-lasting results that the traditional methods offer. but without the downsides of a long and uncomfortable recovery. This allowed me to be back at work within 7 days rather than JJ the usual 4-6 weeks.

After just 7 days, I'm thrilled with my new-look face! Looking in the mirror in the morning is no longer a scary experience and I'm constantly being told how well I look! I feel so

Recent patients after just 7 days

much more confident and love the 'natural' results; very subtle, not stretched.

Breakthrough medical procedure: The same results, Traditional Facelift ~ of the recovery (SMAS) Loose skin, deep lines, sagging to cheeks, jowls and jawline

Loose skin, deep lines, sagging to cheeks, jowls and jawline

General anaesthetic

Local anaesthetic

Length of procedure

4-6 hours

2-3 hours

Drains and bandages

Yes

No

~

Addresses

IDI

Anaesthetic

0 IDI

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4-6 weeks

1week

IDI

Bruising and swelling

4-6 weeks

Minimal

d\J. 0

Hospital stay

1-2 days

Walk-in/walk-out

Time needed off work

Traditional Method at Day 1

2-4 weeks

Traditional Method atWeek4

As featured on BBC One Scotland's 'Facelifts & Fillers' Watch it on iPlayer today

Drains & bandages Long scar & staples More invasive

0

Procedure Longevity

Extensive bruising & swelling Risk of hair loss (long scar) Prolonged recovery

Absorbable sutures & no staples Short scar (less invasive) Minimal downtime/bruising

7-10 years

To arrange a consultation today Call us on 01892 257 040 or text 'FACE' to 88802 for details Visit us online at www.bellavou.co.uk Copyright Š 2016. Before you consider any procedure you should consult with a physician to check your medical suitability. The above information

is only a brief overview and typical of most patients' experiences. Errors and omissions excepted.

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THE LOOK

SO

TREAT YOURSELF FOR SUMMER Dreading baring your bikini body? We take a look at some of the top treatments available to help you banish the body blues in time for the warmer weather…

A

s holiday time draws closer and bikini

plumping, smoothing and hydration for

results without you losing your

panic starts to set in, don’t stress.

sublime glowing skin without the makeup.

expression. Our face is meant for expression, it’s what makes us unique!

Whether it’s your body or face you’d

like to target, Amir Nakhdjevani,

SCULPT AWAY

Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Bella Vou

You’ve spent countless hours in the gym

NO SWEAT

in Tunbridge Wells, has some top tips so

and weeks counting calories, but still those

Feel super confident with dry, clean and

you’ll be sorted for summer in no time.

stubborn fat bits remain. Liposuction is

fresh underarms when you’re on your

Stop sweating it at the gym and opt for

one option, where excess fat is removed

summer break. Treatment of

some pamper time instead…

and problem areas are contoured.

hyperhidrosis or excessive underarm

It’s a well proven technique with

sweating is a simple and easy procedure

FRESH FACED

great results and is usually a one-off

using a botulinum toxin. Generally

Book a deluxe facial to pep the skin up,

treatment. CoolSculpting® is completely

patients say it’s like ‘having an on-off

reviving it for your trip away. Hydrating

non-invasive and freezes the fat cells,

button’, and life changes in the most

and brightening, it’s also great for a quick

which the body then breaks down and

spectacular way. Embarrassing sweat

pick me up after long haul flights, a work

removes. The treatment uses no needles

marks are banished and no more

trip, just being slammed at the office or

or incisions; it’s simply an applicator that

throwing away your favourite clothes.

busy at home. Schedule in a treatment

rests on the skin during the procedure.

before you fly out and when you get back

Most patients find the treatment

BANISH THE BAGS

from your travels. Take time out for a

practically pain-free. Repeat treatments

This treatment combines PRP (platelet

sumptuous facial to leave your skin

are required to achieve a good result, but

rich plasma) with hyaluronic acid to

feeling refreshed and revived.

this is a good alternative to liposuction if

deliver an immediate plumping effect in

you prefer a non-surgical option. The

the eye area to reduce dark circles and the

BRILLIANT BOOSTERS

results will make you look great from

appearance of eye bags, as well as adding

Skin Boosters or Mesotherapy is a gentle

every angle!

volume. Combining your own platelets and hyaluronic acid, a natural platform is

treatment using minute needles to inject hyaluronic acid, vitamins and other

FROWN FADER

created to support facial structures and

yummy properties, into the skin to

Dodge getting frown lines this summer by

tissues, which may have lost elasticity

stimulate rejuvenation, perfect for an

having a muscle relaxant treatment,

and volume from day to day living or

intensive boost of hyaluronic acid just

which creates a softer and more refreshed

accelerated ageing while future proofing.

below the skin, which ensures skin

look. It’s a specialtythatproduces natural

It’s safe, natural and more preventative.

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THE LOOK

SO

EXPERT OPINION

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE ON YOUR HEALTH, BEAUTY AND WELLBEING

How has the industry and the treatments you offer changed in the last year?

Treatments are always improving and changing, and all the consultants at The Horder Centre keep abreast of the latest developments in their specific fields. An example of this is the treatment of young patients with arthritis in a single area of the knee.

Historically, they would either have had to cope with the pain or consider a replacement, whereas now there is the option to offload this debarment by performing an osteotomy (realigning the limb) to offload the arthritic area and delay the knees for implant surgery. There are unlikely to be any major step changes regarding the treatment of arthritis in the next year or so, however, the ultimate goal would be able to provide a scaffold, for bone and articular

LETâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TALK ABOUT HEALTH

cartilage to be grown on, to create a new knee rather than have to replace it.

When it comes to your wellbeing, getting the best advice and service is of the utmost importance, as consultant orthopaedic surgeon Andrew Armitage from The Horder Centre in Tunbridge Wells explains

Number of years in the industry: I have been an orthopaedic consultant for the last 13 years, clinical lead in Eastbourne for six years and have been the medical advisory committee chairman at The Horder Centre

When treating patients privately

patients can be reassured they

for the last year.

for knee replacement surgery,

are going to be treated in a

Specialism: I have always had a sub-speciality

what sort of lead-in and

centre of excellence that has

interest in knee surgery and perform significant

recovery time are private

outstanding patient

numbers of partial, total and revision knee

patients looking at?

satisfaction and excellent

replacements, although also deal with sports

Most patients are able to be

reported outcomes. There is no

seen within a couple of weeks of

need to put life on hold; patients

private referral by the surgeon of

can choose their time of outpatient

their choice or sub speciality surgeon,

and inpatient treatment to fit in with other

medicine, including arthroscopy and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and multiple ligament reconstruction.

Hospitals I consult for: My base NHS hospital

and are likely to be able to have their surgery

life demands. Our patients are able to be seen

is Eastbourne, where I work for the

within two to four weeks of a decision to

at The Horder Centre both through private

East Sussex Hospitals Trust carrying out

proceed. This can obviously be altered to fit in

insurance and self-pay.

trauma services.

with the patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs. Patients will spend

You will be treated and looked after by a

Best piece of advice: For anyone considering

two to three nights in hospital and be walking

team of healthcare professionals who

going privately, it is important to discuss all

reasonably well, on average, 6-8 weeks after

specialise in providing care to patients with

options that are available for your condition,

the operation, with continual improvement

these conditions in outpatients, theatres and

including the pros and cons, and to come to a

over the year.

post operatively on the wards. Patients will be

combined agreement on the best form of

seen and treated by a consultant who is not

treatment for the patient and an appropriate

What are the benefits of choosing to go

only an orthopaedic specialist, but will have a

time frame to have it in.

privately through Horder Healthcare for your

sub-speciality interest related to the particular

treatment? Can patients self-pay?

orthopaedic problem. This ensures the best

Contact us on 01892 529 059

The Horder Centre, part of Horder Healthcare,

possible discussion and provision of options

Visit www.thehordercentre.co.uk

is a hospital that specialises in orthopaedic

for the treatment of any condition, and the

Horder Healthcare Tunbridge Wells,

surgery and the treatment of musculoskeletal

knowledge that the surgeon performing these

2 Mount Ephraim Road,

diseases. By choosing The Horder Centre

procedures does so regularly.

Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1EE

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s

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For Inch Loss, Skin Tightening, Stretch Marks, Cellulite Reduction, Skin Rejuvenation, & Pre/Post Liposuction Contouring* (*requires surgeon referral)

'

...

Using a mild low laser (cold laser) treatment to reduce your body's fat.

Areas that can be treated stomach, hips, thighs, lower back, arms, double chins, ankles and male breasts.

We also offer a wide variety of other treatments ...

Waxing • Facials • Threading • Manicures • Pedicures • Lash&Brow Tint Chemical Peels • Collagen Infusion Massage • Sports Massage • Aromatherapy Colon Massage • Indian Head Massage • Hot Stone Massage • Thai Foot Massage • Warm Bamboo Massage • Baby Massage • Hopi Ear Candles

~

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s

s

APRIL 2016

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

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

We still have dates available in 2016 - get in touch with us to discuss availability and prices, or visit our website for further information.

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WEDDINGS

SO

THE SECRET DIARY OF A BRIDE TO BE This month our bride finds out whether it’s normal to feel ‘dress regret’…

LAST NIGHT I had a nightmare – it’s one I’ve had quite a lot recently – and in it, I’m walking down the aisle in a dress that’s nothing like the one I chose, but it’s too late to do anything about it.

Sometimes with nightmares, when you wake in a cold sweat because you’ve dreamed a dinosaur’s living in your bathroom (a childhood nightmare that still scars me to this day), it’s easy to dismiss them and get on with your day.

But, with this one, I can’t seem to shake off the feeling that I’ve made a weddingdress-sized error.

My dress search started with such promise – a boutique in Tunbridge Wells where I fell in love with every dress I tried, including a huge princess dress covered head to toe in embellishments.

The trouble was, since long before I was engaged, I’d had it in mind that I wanted a vintage dress, ideally a 1950s style tea-length affair, so I continued my search.

And search I did, dragging my poor mum and bridesmaids to shop after shop, while they made all the right noises as I tried

on every style of frock imaginable. The trouble was, there weren’t many 50s style dresses about, and any that I did try made me feel more bridesmaid than bride.

Then, at a vintage wedding fair I discovered a beautiful, 1960s beaded gown, which originated from Harrods, and for a couple of weeks I obsessed about it, convinced it was ‘the one’. But, on a second visit I wasn’t so enamoured – I noticed how much work it needed, and realised that I was so caught up in wanting a vintage dress that I was sacrificing other elements I desired. So, I went on, found a full-length, non-vintage dress and thought that was the end of it.

Until the nightmares started, that is.

Suddenly, rather than being happy that I’d found a dress, I was in a daily panic about my decision, and people’s comments didn’t help. “But I thought you wanted vintage?” they’d say when I voiced my concerns. So then I had to reel off my reasons to them, while they looked at me sceptically. Had I made a huge mistake?

Browsing wedding forums reassured me somewhat – I found plenty of brides in a

blind panic about their dress choices. A fair few were already selling the gowns they’d bought on impulse, and many more were seeking assurance over whether they’d done the right thing. I felt both comforted and disturbed by my findings – wedding dresses aren’t cheap, so the fact that so many brides were feeling resentful of their choices was somewhat concerning. Perhaps it’s because you have to find one so far in advance, so you have a year or so to dwell on your decision, or perhaps there’s just too much pressure to find ‘the one’.

Either way, I’ve concluded that on the day, nobody (except for those longsuffering bridesmaids) will know about the other 20 dresses I tried, and they won’t care whether there was one with nicer detailing or a longer train. They’ll be focusing on other things, like the free Champagne…

Next month, find out why our bride is feeling hassled by hen do arrangements…

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SGI AND

1

A fabulous mix of decorative antiques & authentic brocante piecesl plus collectables of the futurel handcrafted by today s best designer-makers 1

1

HOMES & ANTIQUES

-

-

13 & 14 MAY 2016 ERIDGE PARK, ERIDGE GREEN, NEAR TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT TN3 9JT TICKETS £7.50-£11 DETAILS & TICKETS AT WWW. DECORATIVELIVINGFAIR.CO.UK f DECORATIVELIVINGFAIR "JI DECLIVINGFAIR

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

SO

LIFE & STYLE

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

BALDWINS TRAVEL Baldwins Travel Group is very proud to

Travel Group, they are listed as one of our

have two of its travel consultants shortlisted

preferred suppliers for our clients’ Canada

in the Top 5 Agents category at the 2016

enquiries. Let us use our knowledge to help

Canada Travel Awards. Mervyn Willard,

you choose your own package of highlights.

general manager at Baldwins Travel in

Call Mervyn on 01892 511 999 or visit him

Tunbridge Wells, and Steph Witchell,

at Baldwins Travel, 27 Grosvenor Road,

branch manager at Sevenoaks Travel, have

Tunbridge Wells. Alternatively, call Steph

both received Best Canada Specialist Travel

on 01732 458 255 or visit her at

Agents awards, which is a tremendous

Sevenoaks Travel,

achievement. They both work closely with

4/5 Dorset Street, Sevenoaks.

1st Class Holidays, an award-winning, independent operator specialising in holidays to Canada.

They have also recently been voted ‘Operator of the Year’ at the Canada Travel Awards for a record 14th time, and have a wealth of experience in planning trips to this incredible country. This is why, at Baldwins

CHILSTONE Chilstone is one of the main sponsors of the Meningitis Now Futures Show Garden. Inspired by the courage shown by meningitis sufferers, many of whom are children or teenagers, the garden aims to show the pathway into young adulthood. Two Cotswold dry stone walls divide the garden, with the right hand wall representing the disease. Unseen to the children approaching, one sculpture begins to pass through, reaching up for help.

The second begins to pass through, but doesn’t appear on the other side, showing the high mortality rate, something the charity really wanted to get over in the finished

mortal man. The second wall represents recovery, with the

design. Between the two walls is a tapered gravel path leading

fourth sculpture beckoning and encouraging the one before.

to a covered stone seating area, appearing like a small folly.

The last will be older and setting off to run, continuing with

Chilstone has handcrafted the columns and pediment and donated all the design and stonework to the charity.

The folly represents the strength of the charity, giving both a pause in the children’s lives and an area of refuge.

A bespoke oak seat will bear the Latin motto of the charity with a carved stone tableau above, depicting the gods helping

her life with the help of Meningitis Now. This project allows Chilstone to show the quality of their handcrafted architectural stonework on the world stage of this famous flower show. Chilstone will also be involved in two other projects at this show. They have garden ornaments on the Griffin Glass House and Solus Decor stands.

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

KENT ADULT EDUCATION

want to go after a promotion and need some

floristry and interior design, we can give you

extra skills to set you aside from the

the qualifications to back up your passion

competition, we have a range of courses that

and make your business stand out from the

START YOUR JOURNEY WITH US

can help you take the first step on your

rest. Starting your journey doesn’t have to

Have you ever wanted to gain a qualification

journey. Whether you want to improve your

be a struggle. Whether you are worried

or new skills and not known where to start?

IT skills with one of our ECDL courses, or you

about fitting it in to your normal routine,

Throughout life our plans change, and

want a change of career and want to embark

or worried about how to pay for an

sometimes to achieve our goals or to realise

on a counselling course, a teaching assistant

accreditation, we have options to help.

our ambitions, we need a little help to get

course or even an accounting course,

there. At Kent Adult Education, we help

we can help.

thousands of people every year reach their

It may even be that you want to start your

For more information, visit www.kentadulteducation.co.uk/

full potential. Whether you left school years

own business, but have no idea where to

accredited16, pop into your local centre,

ago without the GCSEs you needed, or you

start! From bookkeeping to courses in

or call 03000 41 22 22.

DALE HILL GOLF CLUB

image.” Speedgolf addresses pace of play

Olympic programme after a 112-year absence

head on, with this more athletic golf format; it

makes it the perfect time to combine golf and

attracts both golfers and runners, or those

running, but competitors will need to be

who seek a fresh fitness challenge. While it is

quick to challenge the current British Open

The British Open Speedgolf Championships

more physically demanding than the

Speedgolf Champion Rob Hogan, who, at the

will take place on August 14 2016, returning

traditional golf game, providing a good

2015 championship, shot a round of 77 in just

to Dale Hill Golf Club in East Sussex for a

workout, it is also a lot of fun.

34 minutes and four seconds, giving him a

second year. Dale Hill Hotel and Golf Club

Pam Painter, co-founder of British

Speedgolf Score of 111:04. Last year saw the

general manager Carl Rundgren says:

Speedgolf, explains: “The challenge in

introduction of a dedicated women’s

“Speedgolf is an exciting version of the great

Speedgolf is balancing your running pace

category, and British Speedgolf is keen to

game, and one that gets the heart racing,

with your capacity to swiftly and accurately

build on the women’s field at the 2016 event

blood pumping and takes the sport to new

play your shots to get the lowest combined

to ensure they get the same recognition

limits and away from its traditionally staid

score possible.” Golf’s return to Rio’s

as the men.

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KNIGHT FRANK Knight Frank Sevenoaks is proud to sponsor the Sevenoaks Triathlon again, one of the first of the season, which is taking place during the morning of Sunday April 17. Starting with an early morning 400-metre swim at the Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, the athletes then embark on a challenging bike ride extending 25km through the beautiful but hilly Kentish countryside, east of Sevenoaks. An 8.4km run through the stunning Knole Park completes the event. Last year, Thomas Wade, a Knight Frank employee, won the event in an excellent time of 1:17:44, which he is hoping to improve upon when he returns to defend his title.

He is to be accompanied by three other colleagues, Edward Rook, Tilly Wilson and Kate Horton, who are bravely competing in the race being organised by the Sevenoaks Tri-Club.

This ever-popular event, where the places sell out within hours of entries opening, has now been running for the last 30 years.

Martin Brown, race director, provided a bit of historical context: “On July 7 1985, 117 people gathered at the new Sevenoaks Leisure Centre to take part in the first Sevenoaks Triathlon.

Fast-forward to April 19 2015, when the 41st race took place with 385 competitors. There were three competitors that raced in 1985, who were also here again in 2015!” As well as attracting many first-time competitors, the Sevenoaks Triathlon has a special medal for those that complete 10 races: the so-called Evergreens, who come back year after. George Berry, the office head, will be in attendance to present the Knight Frank trophies to the fastest local male and female. We wish every competitor enjoyment and success.

ÉTOILE WOMENSWEAR BOUTIQUE Located in the heart of Bank Street, Étoile Womenswear Boutique radiates flair, elegance and the unique blend of a personal shopping experience with the absolute finest attention to detail, catered to every client. A warm welcome invites each customer with a smile, with rails draped with established brands such as Des Petit Hauts. Since our October opening in 2012, Étoile has provided style and comfort to all ages and sizes, with each brand carefully hand-picked to accommodate the various faces fashion may take. With new brands Javier Simorra of Spain and Ikks of France debuting last season, Étoile amalgamates international trends with the Cornish countryside of Seasalt and the chic London poise of Almost Famous to create a truly unique shopping experience. Transitional outfits cater to the busy working woman, while floor-length dresses contribute to what makes Étoile your true go-to for any shopping needs.

01732 459 351 4a Bank Street, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1UW

CATCHPOLE & RYE BATHROOMS Catchpole & Rye Limited was pleased to welcome The Hon. Damian Green MP for Ashford to the official opening of its new workshop facility on Friday February 19 2016. As a leading British bathroom manufacturer, the new premises will double the production capability at Pluckley, and provide huge opportunity for growth and employment in rural Kent. The dedicated building will house engineering and polishing workshops, alongside an enhanced product development facility. Allied to the imminent opening of its newest showroom in Tunbridge Wells, this represents another milestone in the company’s continued commitment to business development within Kent, and its future market development both at home and overseas.

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SO PREPARED

BY

I

JACK.SON GILMOU~ WIT H A GENEROUS SERV ING OF PASSION & IMAGINATION

•

Catering fo r

t~Wt Ct1'¥4'fl4v"'~

~

& a lu xu ry se r People who love food, love Jackson Gilmour.

For more info rmat ion contact: 020 8665 1855 info@jacksongilmour.com

Sissinghurst Castle Garden Inspired by bulbs ...

An evening with Anna Pavom Saturday 7 May 6pm-9.30pm £75 Gardening correspondent for The Independent and the author of a number of books on plants and gardening, Anna Pavord will give a talk celebrating bulbs before you enjoy dinner in the restaurant at 8pm.

An evening with Michael Marriott Saturday 18 June 6pm-9.30pm £75 Michael Marriott has been surrounded by roses for the past 25 years in his day job as technical manager at David Austin Roses. Explore the garden at your leisure and join Michael for a talk about old roses before dinner.

Inspired by meadows ...

An evening with Nigel Dunnett Saturday 2 July 6pm-9.30pm £75 Professor of Planting Design and Vegetation Technology, and the Director of The Green Roof Centre, University of Sheffield, Nigel will discuss his work on naturalistic and meadow planting.

After exploring the garden,join Nigel for his talk before enjoying dinner.

To book 0344 2491895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sissinghurst-castle-garden

88

"Yew Topiary"

Studio Open Days 2016 16th to 24th April Noon until 5pm each day Up the Garden Studio Boughton Monchelsea KentME17 4LF www.grahamclarke.co.uk 01622 743938 Studio open by appointment all year round

APRIL 2016

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ALL THE NEWS THAT MATTERS, LOCAL, NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL

e

/timesoftunbridgewells

@TimesofTW

U

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS

/@timesoftw

(m

~

/company/times-of-tunbridge-wells

....,_

.... www timesoftunbridgewells.co uk

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

GET WITH THE TIMES

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SO

EVENT

PHOTO SHOOT

COOKING UP A STORM

To launch the new phase of five bedroom homes at Royal Wells Park, Berkeley Homes invited VIP guests prospective buyers to an exclusive event. During the afternoon, local celebrity chef Rosemary Shrager showcased her culinary skills by giving an interactive cookery demonstration, to highlight the benefits of having an open plan kitchen/dining room. She was also on hand to offer cooking tips. www.royalwellspark.co.uk

COMMUNITY SHARING More than 70 people from 50 businesses shared ideas for supporting their community at the launch of Town & Country Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Corporate Business Partner initiative, which took place at the Trinity Gallery in Tunbridge Wells.

During the event, guests shared ideas of how they could work with Town & Country Foundation or other community groups, including mentoring, training and producing marketing materials, and tied them on to a decorative tree. www.tchg.org.uk

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EVENT

SO

WEDDED BLISS Those looking for a little wedding inspiration found plenty of ideas when they visited the Salomons Estate wedding showcase at the historic venue in Tunbridge Wells. Guests were able to meet suppliers and gather tips for their big days, as well as see the venue dressed up as it would be for wedding celebrations. www.salomons-estate.com

PURE PURCHASES Fashion lovers were in for a treat when they visited Pure Collection in Tunbridge Wells.

As part of a Mother’s Day celebration, those shopping were given special discounts, as well as being treated to fizz and canapés while they browsed the latest spring collections in store. www.purecollection.com

THE SOUNDS OF MUSIC Music lovers gathered at St Mary’s church in Lamberhurst for an evening of melodic entertainment. Harpsichordist Steven Devine gave an interesting talk on the history of the Bach Goldberg Variations, before performing, while soloist Kate Semmens sang a number of pieces from Bach’s Anna Magdalena Notebook. www.lamberhurstmusic.co.uk

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Tel: 01732 773553 E-mail: robert@divemachine.co.uk I Web: divemachine.co.uk Dive Machin_e, Unit f l , Orchard Business Centre, Sanderson Way, Tonbridge, Kent,TN9 !QF

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To enter a category please visit: www.rtwba.co.uk New Business of the Year Sponsored By: Ansacom Green Company of the Year Sponsored By: Global Office Creative Business of the Year Sponsored By: Fox Marketing Services Corporate Social Responsibility Sponsored By: McMillan Williams Solicitors Business Hero of the Year Sponsored By: Easistore Family Business of the Year Sponsored By: Thomson Snell & Passmore Entrepreneur of the Year Sponsored By: Infinity Group Young Business Person of the Year Sponsored By: Russell Fewin Commercial Facilities Solutions Service Excellence Award Sponsored By: Rent Locally Outstanding Business of the Year Sponsored By: Parfitt Cresswell Solicitors Times of Tunbridge Wells Readers' Choice Award Sponsored By: MJ Exhibitions

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To nominate a company for an award or buy tickets for the gala awards dinner please call: 01892 739 764 or email: info@RTWBA.co.uk

·---· •

Main Sponsors

RSI\A

w

Times 30/03/2016 09:27

BUSINESS

SO

THE FEMALE BOSSES

We take a look at why for women in this area, business is booming…

AT A TIME where the gender pay gap has rarely been out of the headlines and we’re constantly being informed that women are struggling when it comes to the world of business, it may come as a welcome surprise that in our area, not only is business thriving, but in some cases, women are actually earning more than men.

New figures released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reveal that women in Tunbridge Wells earn more than

anywhere else in the region and more than the national average, taking home £70 a week more than their counterparts in other areas of Kent.

Nationally, female entrepreneurs are faring well too – a report from Barclays Wealth and Investment Management shows female entrepreneurs now typically earn more than their male equivalents, taking home around 14% more annually.

In our area, not only are women earning more, they’re taking the plunge and

launching their own businesses too.

A quick stroll down Tunbridge Wells, Tenterden or Sevenoaks High Streets reveals an abundance of businesses, from fashion boutiques to fitness centres – many which have been created by and are run by women. And then there’s all the businesses run from homes and offices, ranging from law practices to technology firms.

But what is it driving these local women to realise their dreams and start their own businesses?

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BUSINESS

THE AREA Popular commuter and tourist towns such as Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, Tenterden and Cranbrook all boast a wealth of businesses run by women – and due to their locations, they’re seeing steady success.

Some businesses, such as those in the retail and tourism sectors benefit from the levels of tourists visiting these charming towns, while others see a boost in custom from the local community.

“West Kent is a great location with convenient travel links to London if that’s where your market is,” says Emma Cox, of Cox Consultancy who is Chair of networking group Women in Business West Kent. “There’s also a vibrant local economy with lots of small businesses and lots of local networking.”

Claire Witz, who runs networking group Tunbridge Wells Mums in Business and business school GrowthSteps agrees: “We have a thriving community of small businesses in the town – a huge amount of collaboration and support goes on between them, and as a result networking groups and businesses support services flourish in the area,” she says. “The multitude of independent small businesses play a key part in giving Tunbridge Wells the unique character that we all love.”

NETWORKING Many of the independent businesses belong to networking groups, and throughout the area there are numerous groups, all created to bring business owners of all ages and professions together. In Tunbridge Wells alone there are over 10 groups who meet regularly, and across the region there are hundreds of meets where business owners can liaise with likeminded entrepreneurs and share tips and advice.

“I believe that there is great

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support for any woman who runs her own business,” says Emma.

“These groups are an opportunity to meet other people who are in the same situation as you or who have already grown their business and are happy to help you on your journey.”

Taking the plunge to start up a business can be daunting, but the whole process can be made all the more easy by engaging with others who are in the same boat, or have previously started their own businesses. This is where

joining a networking group can prove vital – as well as being a great place to make new friends and acquaintances, the time spent within these groups can be crucial when it comes to getting advice and input on your ideas.

“Networking is essential,” says Sue Kimber, member of the Wealden Business Group and owner of Pastel Shades Bridalwear near Tenterden.

“It’s a fabulous way to spread the word, educate yourself and have fun.”

While there are many benefits to going it alone in business, the process can also be isolating at times, which is where networking can be a benefit as it gives individuals the chance to meet likeminded business associates, while using the meeting opportunities to discuss ideas.

“Running your own business can be quite a lonely experience,” explains Claire.

“A good networking group is like having the colleagues without the office politics.”

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BUSINESS

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MUMPRENEURS The term ‘mumpreneur’ is often bandied around in relation to women in business, and refers to mums who have created their own companies. It is a label that has been happily adopted by some mums in business, and widely criticised by others. But, whether you’re a fan of the term or not, there’s no denying that more and more mums are getting creative and launching their own ventures.

“I’ve been running TW Mums in Business for six years now and throughout that period I’ve seen women setting up businesses continuously,” says Claire. “I have mixed views about the term mumpreneur – on the one hand I do believe many mums have a slightly different experience of running a business around children, but on the other hand, ultimately we’re ambitious business owners who work extremely hard.”

There are many contributing factors in why many women with children are choosing to start their own businesses. For some, it may be that their children have recently flown the nest and it’s time for them to focus on their own ambitions, while for others it could be that flexible working suits them more than a nine to five would. One reason that definitely seems to affect the decision to go it alone is the cost of childcare.

Recent statistics revealed that in the South

TECHNOLOGY Of course, businesses aren’t limited to those you see on the High Street – plenty of women are choosing to run online-only companies, and as technology evolves it only becomes easier to build

East, the cost of sending a child under the age of two to nursery full time is £243.87 a week, while a 2014 survey by Direct Line for Business showed that 49% of mums believed they would be better off financially if they started a business from home.

“The cost of living in the South East means

it is often essential that both partners bring in a wage,” explains Sue. “With the high cost of childcare, this presents a dilemma for parents with young children or indeed with children at school. Being your own boss and being able to work from home is the obvious solution.”

a brand without the need for a physical presence.

Plus, a business run from home can easily become internationally recognised, without all the overheads that come with the need for a shop or office building to run your business from.

“It’s definitely easier for a woman who wants to start up her own business now,” says Emma. “Websites are readily accessible and a reasonable price to set up, and social media helps with attracting and creating a ‘tribe’ of people who not only buy your products but recommend them to others. Clients can be local, or the internet gives access to a global network.”

Some women, rather than leaving a career to set up a business, are choosing to run a company alongside their day job, and in these instances, web-based businesses are ideal as it’s something they can manage beside their existing profession.

“The rise of technology and social media has led to the emergence of a new type of business,” explains Claire. “Local small businesses are also finding it’s viable to work with clients much further away who were not previously accessible through using facilities such as Skype.”

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BUSINESS

With the future looking bright for women in business, perhaps it could be time to finally put those ideas into action. Claire, Emma and Sue have these pieces of advice for anyone considering taking the plunge…

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SUE

CLAIRE

EMMA

My advice to someone thinking of starting up their own business is to do plenty of research into what might work in your area, identify your customer, calculate all costs - start-up and running costs ie have a business plan, decide if you have enough hours in the day to run the business, forge contacts with those who could help you and who you could help in return, take a deep breath and hopefully you will enjoy the fruits of your labour and maintain a healthy status quo at home too.

• Take small steps and adapt quickly • Think “is this scalable” from the outset • Find your difference • Ask and really listen to feedback • Make sure there is not just need for your products or services, but actual demand – are people actually willing to pay for what you offer?

• Understand what you don’t know and get advice or learn from someone who does – business schools like GrowthSteps are invaluable in this • Start networking with other local businesses as early as you can – don’t feel you need to wait until you can offer a fully formed “slick” business before you start as there’s a huge amount of support there and it can help you avoid re-inventing the wheel.

Do it! If you have a job at the moment, look to set up a business part time until you know you can make a go of it financially. Take some time to check you have a valid business idea and that people will buy from you. Go out networking to test ideas and get feedback.

We all have something to contribute and once you’ve found out what it is there’s no stopping a woman who knows where she wants to go

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01892 514514 Linden House, Linden Close, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8HH

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BSR BESPOKE CHARTERED

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LEADING FROM THE FRONT Now more than ever, women are making their mark in the business world, be it as founders of limited companies, or by heading up established operations. To find out what makes them tick, we hear from a selection of local high-flyers, who offer some handy tips from the top on how to get ahead

SARAH BELLAMY, INTERIOR DESIGN DIRECTOR, SKINNERS OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS My one piece of business advice is...

The starting point for a business to be successful is to have a passion for what you do or what you want to do; a self belief and determination that you can make a success of your business, which will in turn enable you to put in the hard work required to achieve your goals. In an age of internet shopping, providing the very best customer service is essential in order to make your business stand out. At Skinners of Tunbridge Wells, our aim is to provide a service that cannot be found on the internet i.e. totally personal and individual.

ELEANOR HOSKIN, MANAGER, BEAUTELLIES My one piece of business advice is...

I became the manager of Beautellies when I was 22 and I was ready for the challenge.

Beauty has always been my passion from when I was little and I couldn’t see myself doing anything else. Business is always changing and I think it is a must to constantly adapt to new ways, new treatments and new ideas by ongoing training. You have to keep evolving to be great. “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent. It is the one that is most adaptable to change.” – Charles Darwin

SARAH GILLMORE, PERSONAL STYLIST My one piece of business advice is...

To give something for nothing! At least to start with, while you are getting yourself and your business known. It need not be something big or use a lot of your time, but something that may be of value or inspiration to someone. It seems to be true that if you give, you can expect to receive somewhere down the line. It is a feel-good practice to do occasionally anyway, which can generate business and attract goodwill. The other side to that is that when you do charge, keep in mind the value you are adding. People value more what they have to pay for. Remember that what you have to give is valuable.

CATHERINE GALLAGHER, FOUNDING DIRECTOR, THE BEYOND TRAVEL COMPANY My one piece of business advice is...

Do what you love and love what you do. When you’re running your own business, you need to know why you’re doing what you’re doing – this will give you ‘laser focus’ and create a strong enough desire to keep you going through ‘thick and thin’.

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BUSINESS

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

● WORTHY CAUSE An intrepid team of six from Tunbridge Wells law firm CooperBurnett is set to tackle the Three Peaks Challenge this June in aid of charity ellenor, which offers home support and care to families facing terminal illness. The group will be climbing Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in England and Snowdon in Wales in 24 hours, having embarked on a 16-week training programme. Trainee solicitor Katie Hilsdon says: “We are hoping that our mission will raise a significant contribution towards our overall goal to donate £10,000 to ellenor this year.” To support the CooperBurnett team, visit www.justgiving.com/CB3Peaks

Baby boom Tunbridge Wells-based luxury baby changing bag brand Jem + Bea has scooped a Small Business Award from Nick Brown, the business expert from BBC Radio 2’s Jeremy Vine Show.

Jem + Bea was founded in September 2015 by ex-lawyer Dominique Hughes and accessories designer Rebecca Da Silva Lima, when they saw a gap in the market. Dominique and Rebecca say: “We are so honoured to win this award only six months after launching our brand to market. It is a real accolade to be selected by such a well-regarded business expert at this stage in our journey.” www.jemandbea.com

 FAMILY BUSINESS

A new emporium showcasing local artists and craftspeople has opened in Tunbridge Wells. Zaven’s, on Mount Ephraim, is owned and run by Christina Gudenian, with the support of her two daughters.

The shop sells gifts, cards, collectibles, artworks, locally handmade jewellery and candles.

A floristry service is also available, offering readymade bouquets, arrangements and plants. Christina says: “Having spent 30 years working in offices, Zaven’s is a culmination of everything that is ‘me’.” Zaven’s is open from 9am until 6pm, Tuesday to Saturday and some Sundays.

For more information, call 01892 457 205 or 07906 017 753.

TRAILBLAZING TIPPLES Tenterden-based Chapel Down is the first wine producer to be recognised in the London Stock Exchange’s ‘1,000 Companies to Inspire Britain’ report, which recognises the UK’s most dynamic small and mediumsized businesses. The estate’s 2014 crowdfund was quoted as having ‘blazed a trail in England’s winemaking and craft beer market’, and the winery was recognised for welcoming over 50,000 annual visitors to Tenterden. CEO Frazer Thompson says: “Being recognised by the London Stock Exchange as one of Britain’s most inspiring companies is a great honour, and it is humbling to be the first wine producer to feature.” www.chapeldown.com

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

● TIME FOR TEA Foie gras, cucumber jelly and bacon jam might not be foods you’d expect to see on an afternoon tea menu, but Alexander House Hotel in Turners Hill have decided to shake up the traditional scone and sandwich scene by offering a range of eclectic foods as part of their new premium seven course afternoon tea experiences. With items such as foie gras and rhubarb macaroons and sandwiches containing truffle mustard available, the hotel will be offering this new taste sensation on April 16 and 30. www.alexanderhotels.co.uk

FITTING THE BILL If all goes to plan, the longawaited opening of Bill’s in Sevenoaks should take place this month. The eatery, which is situated on London Road, had been rumoured to be coming to the area for a while, and this was confirmed when an eight week building project began in February. It is now believed the restaurant will begin trading from early April, providing the necessary works are

➤ TOP TASTES A number of local food and drink businesses are celebrating after scooping prestigious Taste of Kent awards. The awards, which recognise the best producers from across the county, saw accolades given to Chapel Down in Tenterden for their Bacchus wine, and Hush Heath in Staplehurst and Hollin Root farm in Cranbrook for the Kent Countryside award. Benenden-based Hinxden Dairy were named winners in the dairy class for the Kent Food Product award, while Anno Distillers from Marden were winners of the specialist drinks category for their 602 gin.

completed on time.

Bill’s, which originated in East Sussex already has establishments in Tunbridge Wells and Bluewater, and is set to open a further 25 premises this year.

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COME DINE WITH DAVINA Local star and health food aficionado Davina McCall talks serving up nutritious treats…

PA PHOTO/ ANDREW HAYES WATKINS

A

fter 15 years of marriage, Davina McCall surprised her husband Matthew by arranging to renew

their vows in Las Vegas last spring.

Romantic as it sounds, the TV presenter and fitness fanatic insists it was quite the opposite.

In fact, the whole day was a family affair, with their three children – Holly, 14, Tilly, 12 and nine-year-old Chester – secretly writing the vows on the plane, and two “really great friends” who couldn’t come to their wedding

like, ‘right that is it – you are going to cook

in 2000 joining in on the surprise.

for me a bit more!’ He’s very good at

“I said to Matthew, ‘we’re going to renew our vows’, and his face sort of fell,” McCall,

cooking, Matthew.”

McCall – who recently hosted Channel

48, recalls with a laugh. “He said, ‘Oh my

4’s winter sports show The Jump – is

God, that’s so cheesy. No!’”

also a dab hand in the kitchen of course,

“I said, ‘darling, we’re just going in our clothes, you don’t have to change into anything, we’re going to have a real laugh,

After this long together, the couple have a good rhythm at home – but McCall notes that there’s always room for improvement...

“It’s funny because recently, when I’ve worked a couple of nights, Matthew’s cooked for friends or cooked for the kids, and I think, ‘hang on a minute, how come you never cook when I’m there?!’

“He’s actually quite a good cook, so I was

110

“It’s interesting, you think, ‘oh well, the got more adventurous with the new stuff I

Written out of frustration at the confusing

Smart Carbs seeks to simplify the issue.

“I’ve always been telling everybody about eating a balanced, healthy diet [one that includes carbs], and then I suddenly thought, ‘have I been telling people the wrong thing?’

Then a nutritionist told me that there are good carbs and bad carbs, and we came up with this idea of smart carbs.

“It makes total sense; there are smart carbs, ones that are good for us – and there are some very simple changes we can make.”

These changes include swapping white bread, rice and pasta for brown varieties (“That’s a no-brainer”) and using sweet

“It was brilliant because it was very casual,

parmesan topping – but actually they loved it.

cookbook to her repertoire.

‘actually, that’s quite cute’, and we all piled

we didn’t make it into a great big thing.”

crumble with a cauliflower, quinoa and

kids aren’t going to like it’, but the kids have

advice surrounding carbohydrates, Davina’s

our way through our wedding vows.

McCall recalls how she thought her kids would “baulk” when she first made a chicken

recently adding another healthy-eating

the kids have written the vows’, and he went, down to the Little White Chapel and laughed

potato in place of regular spuds.

give them. They’re into trying new things.”

She acknowledges mealtimes can be a battleground, however.

“I’ve got three kids and quite often, two of them like something and one of them doesn’t. I don’t make them something different – I just say, ‘have some of the veg and have a bit more of this if you don’t like that’.

“I always try and get them to try it,” McCall adds. “The more somebody tries something, the more likely they are to like it in the end.”

Fancy trying one of McCall’s recipes yourself? Here’s a tasty recipe from

Davina’s Smart Carbs...

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FOOD

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LAMB AND AUBERGINE CASSEROLE (SERVES 4)

• 2 aubergines, cut into 2.5cm cubes • Olive oil spray • 1tbsp olive oil • 1 large onion, finely sliced • 600g lean lamb leg or shoulder, trimmed of fat and diced • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 1/2tsp ground allspice • 1/2tsp ground cumin • 1/2tsp ground coriander • 1/2tsp cayenne or hot chilli powder • 1/4tsp ground cinnamon • 400g can of chopped tomatoes • 200ml chicken stock or water • 1tbsp pomegranate molasses • 1tbsp lemon juice • Small bunch of parsley, leaves only, to serve • Salt and black pepper

 Preheat the oven to 220°c/200°c Fan/Gas

 Add the tomatoes and the stock or water.

7. Put the aubergines in a bowl and spritz

Bring to the boil, then turn down the heat,

them with olive oil spray, then turn them

put a lid on the casserole dish and simmer

over and repeat. Spread the aubergines on

for an hour until the lamb is becoming

a baking tray and roast them in the oven for

tender. Add the aubergines and the

about 20 minutes, until they’re starting to

pomegranate molasses, cover again and

brown.

cook for another 30 minutes.

 Heat the olive oil in a large flameproof

 Remove the lid from the casserole. If the

casserole dish. Add the sliced onion and

sauce is very liquid, simmer until it has

cook it slowly over a gentle heat for about

reduced slightly, then add the lemon juice.

10 minutes, until it’s soft and translucent,

Serve sprinkled with parsley.

then turn up the heat and add the lamb.

Cook until the lamb is well browned, stirring regularly, then reduce the heat and

Davina’s Smart Carbs by Davina McCall is

add the garlic and spices. Season with salt

published by Orion Books, priced £16.99.

and pepper.

Available now

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UNDERCOVER EATER You never know where our foodie spy will be headed next...

opt to share the sake nigri (£5.80 for four pieces) which is seasoned sushi rice with salmon, the tekka avocado maki (£4.40 for six pieces) which consists of raw tuna and avocado in a seaweed roll and duck springs rolls (£5.40) on a bed of shredded cabbage and carrots served with sweet hoi sin sauce.

In addition we order the asparagus nigiri (£2.60 for two pieces), which is slightly bland and my personal favourite fuji maki (£6 for eight pieces) consisting of prawn, crabstick, cucumber, omelette, avocado and oshinko.

The flavours and textures merge perfectly in this dish and it satisfactorily hits the spot.

➢ PRICE

Our bill comes to £26.70, which we both feel is great value for money and an affordable price for two people dining.

If picking and choosing sushi dishes doesn’t take your fancy/appeal, set menus are available and range from £10.40 to £31.30.

➢ STAFF

Our waitresses are attentive, but perhaps

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 Kitsu in Tunbridge Wells

a little too much before we order when we want to catch up for five minutes. Overall though, we were happy with the service provided and had the staff’s attention when we needed it.

➢ INTRO

eatery is near capacity on a Monday

A catch up with a friend who is fairly

evening. On top of this, people regularly

new to Tunbridge Wells was planned for

pop in to collect their takeaway orders.

a quiet Monday evening. I suggest

Kitsu is a particularly tiny venue, so

options that are strikingly similar as a

independent eatery Kitsu, for its

much so that we have to disrupt the

mix and match of only a handful of

renowned authentic sushi and the only

diners next to us in order to gain a clear

ingredients. However, I believe that once

restaurant in town that exclusively

pathway to the exit when we leave.

you work out which dishes you enjoy

serves the popular Japanese dish.

➢ LOCATION

➢ MENU

➢ THE ONLY THING IS…

I find the extensive sushi menu offers

and complement one another, Kitsu can certainly satisfy your sushi needs. If the

To begin with we order a green tea each

sound of raw fish doesn’t appeal to you,

Tucked away opposite the Royal Victoria

(90p), and our cups are generously

don’t be put off as there are a plethora of

Place car park entrance, this sushi and

refilled throughout the duration of our

options for cooked fish sushi.

noodle bar can easily be missed. Despite

meal. My friend’s dietary requirements

being situated centrally in town, the

are dairy free and she also has a sesame

curry dishes and yaki noodles are

restaurant feels on the fringe and is not

allergy, so we’re pleased to learn that

also on offer.

in a particularly desirable location.

the restaurant can easily cater for us.

➢ DÉCOR

I’m reliably informed that the decor is

Alternatively, a range of soup noodles,

Staff eliminate sesame from the appropriate dishes and we intentionally order sushi without cream cheese.

82a Victoria Road

similar to the aesthetics of a typical

Even with this reducing our choices,

Japanese restaurant, however, it is

an overwhelming extensive sushi menu

TN1 2PW

reminiscent of a school canteen. This

still baffles us for a while.

01892 515 510

doesn’t put off punters though, as the

As we want to eat a variety of fish, we

Tunbridge Wells

www.kitsu.co.uk

APRIL 2016

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FOOD

SO

THOUGHT FOR FOOD This month, our celebrity chef Rosemary Shrager is making a splash about wild salmon

I

would like to talk about wild salmon this month. At Easter we always have salmon gravlax – it seems to have

become a family tradition.

When I was working on the Isle of Harris at the castle, I would look out of the kitchen and watch the salmon getting ready to jump – it was like watching hundreds of mini sharks! You would get the odd one jumping high into the air, and I could sit on the rock watching for hours. I always regretted not taking a photo. To me, it was one of our natural wonders.

They could not jump until the water was the exact height; it was normally after a rainfall and with the high tide in tow so they could swim up against the current on to each ledge containing a pool of water. What surprised me was how little water they needed.

The wild salmon have a longer body, and not as many spots on the body as on the farmed salmon.

When they are filleted, the wild salmon have very little or no fat lines; this is a much

“When they are filleted, the wild salmon have very little or no fat lines; this is a much drier fish so more care has to be taken when cooking it”

drier fish so more care has to be taken when mostly die; this is an arduous task – they

about 5cm to 8cm, and when they’re around

don’t always make it because of

a year old they become known as Parr.

– it has big fat lines and is oilier. It also

exhaustion. Once in the river they will then

The salmon can stay in the river from two to

doesn’t taste nearly as nice, but because of

wait until the spawning occurs. The female

five years, and during this time they go

the fat content it is easier to cook. You can

selects her spawning site away from

through a huge transformation. Eventually,

buy good farmed salmon but it’s always

predators. They find some loose gravel

they become known as Smolts, and prepare

worth finding out where it comes from as

with the water flowing steadily; this is

themselves ready for the big wide ocean

the farms do differ. However, if you want a

important for the oxygen.

with the salt water. The spots on their

cooking it. It’s also more expensive.

The farmed salmon is a cheaper product

treat then I would go for the wild.

The life cycle of a wild salmon is

The salmon do not feed the whole time they are in the fresh water. They are extremely fit

gills start to disappear, whereas farmed salmon spots stay.

The wild salmon now heads out with the

fascinating. As I mentioned, the wild salmon

and fat from the ocean life when they first

find their way upstream to the river of their

arrive; this is a must to survive the journey.

water, remembering as its goes how to

birth to spawn and then

The colour on their bodies starts to change too

come back. When it’s ready to spawn it will

– the male salmon become quite red and the

make the journey upstream. In the

females dark brown.

meanwhile, it will feed on eels, herring and

To spawn the female digs a 10cm to 30cm

crustaceans which determines the colour of

deep nest deposited in the gravel with her

the flesh. I have had a white salmon, so it

tail, and she may lay up to 1,500 pea-sized

obviously didn’t eat any prawns! The wild

eggs. As they develop these are called Alevin – they feed off their sac,

salmon will swim thousands of miles ready for its return to spawn.

then emerge four to six weeks after hatching.

They’re now about 2cm in length, have eight fins and are called Fry. The Fry eat microscopic life in the water, they get to

www.rosemaryshrager.com

APRIL 2016

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22/03/2016 17:25

Start your

journey with us Ever wanted to gain further qualifications or new skills?

KAE have a range of Accredited courses to help you achieve your goal, or realise an ambition.

KAE offer GCSEs in English and maths, or Accredited courses in accounting and counselling.* Your first step is to take a look at the range of courses available; there are even courses in the evenings and at weekends.

For more information visit kentadulteducation.co.uk/Accredited16 one of our local Kent Adult Education Centres or call 03000 41 22 22

Kent

County Council kent.gov.uk

Kent Adult Education is part of Community Learning and Skills

Bringing learning to life

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*Advanced Learner Loans are available for enrolment on courses that are Level 3 or above, subject to status.

Please see the website for more details.

24/03/2016 12:39

SCHOOLS

SO

EDUCATION NEWS

GOOD FORM

Bethany School in Goudhurst is celebrating the opening of a new extension to its dedicated Sixth Form Centre, The Orchard. The project, which has been several years from planning to completion, offers Sixth Form pupils at Bethany modern facilities in which to socialise and study, including a brand new kitchen, common room

and six new dedicated study rooms.

“This new Sixth Form Centre is far superior to what even most universities can offer, and I am proud of the standards we have set at Bethany,” says headmaster Francie Healy. “I look forward to it becoming the new place of camaraderie and friendship that so epitomises the character of Bethany.”

HOME VISITS Rose Hill School in Tunbridge Wells has developed a connection with Mount Ephraim House, a local residential care home. Children from year 4 have been volunteering to go and

➧ WINNING WORDS

spend time with residents each

A Tunbridge Wells school has taken second prize in the second World Book Day Award,

Tuesday after school, as part of

winning £5,000 of new books. Judges, headed by internationally bestselling author James

their PSHE (personal social health

Patterson, awarded Wells Free School £5,000 to spend on new books for its school library after they were impressed by

and education). The pupils spend time talking to and playing games

the school’s video submission entitled ‘I

with the residents during their

Open a Book and I Am.’ Prize conditions

visits, and some have brought in

state the award must be spent in a local

photos to share.

bookshop, and Wells Free School has chosen Mr Books of Tonbridge.

“We are thrilled to win this wonderful

“Our residents enjoy seeing children and visitors from the

prize, especially so soon in our school’s

local community,” says Karen

history,” says Ani Lawrence, headteacher

Cooper, home manager at Mount

at Wells Free School. “Reading is key to learning, and new books are always vitally needed. Our pupils will be so excited when

Ephraim House. “They have really loved the visits from Rose

they see the wonderful new books that

Hill and seeing the children each

their efforts have earned them.”

week brightens up their day.”

APRIL 2016

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SCHOOLS

SO

SCHOOLS OF THOUGHT Choosing the right school for your child can be one of the biggest decisions you’re likely to make as a parent. And with some top institutions on our doorstep, you couldn’t be better placed to give your son or daughter the best start in life. Here are some outstanding academic options to consider

SKIPPERS HILL MANOR PREPARATORY SCHOOL Skippers Hill Manor Preparatory School is a non-selective, co-educational independent day school in Five Ashes, Mayfield, for children aged two to thirteen.

Above all, we aim to provide a happy, busy, stimulating and structured environment, where our children feel valued and secure, and where they

thrive and achieve to the best of their ability. We pride ourselves on the warm and harmonious family atmosphere at our school, where strong and lifelong friendships are formed.

What makes Skippers so special?

•We cherish individuality •We have an outstanding team of teachers •We are set in 22 acres of idyllic countryside To gain a true insight into school life at Skippers Hill, interested families are encouraged to visit us, sample the atmosphere and, most of all, meet our staff and pupils.

Contact the school office on 01825 830 234 to arrange a personalised tour with our headmaster, Mr Hammond. We look forward to welcoming you.

THE ICT REVOLUTION AT RUSSELL HOUSE It is said the only constant in life is change. So it has been at Russell House, where development in recent years has included a major regeneration of ICT teaching.

These improvements have sparked something of an ICT revolution at the school. The upgrade of hardware included over 70 new machines, and a collaborative learning zone, library and story-telling zone called The Hub. New interactive whiteboards, video recording equipment and mobile laptops have transformed how the school delivers computing.

Essentially, the use of computers, laptops, tablets, visualisers and smartboards in the classroom occurs in two ways: either to teach

or to learn, and ideally lots of both.

The spirit of adventure has certainly arrived; a reflection of the changing times around the world and the wealth of digital resources at our teachers’ fingertips.

Now, ICT covers a much broader range of skills, with a heavy emphasis on coding. ‘Digital tasks’ are included in all subjects.

This might include writing blogs from the perspective of a fictitious character from the class novel, or movies created to depict an interview between a doctor and victim of the plague, scripted, played and edited by the pupils.

The result for the children? Vastly increased engagement, creativity and self-confidence.

APRIL 2016

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W H AT ’ S O N

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

14TH » Marcarbe Portayal

The Birthday Party, a cryptic thriller directed by Harold Pinter is showing at Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells. Set in a shabby boarding house in a small English seaside town, an elderly couple see the arrival of two guests offering a distraction from their mundane existence. But when an impromptu, seemingly innocent birthday party abruptly turns into a deadly game of cat and mouse, there are horrifying repercussions.

Start at 8pm and tickets are £17, to book visit www.trinitytheatre.net

7TH » Barrel of Laughs

The next installment of comedy shows at The Bell in Ticehurst will be a hilarious evening on Thursday April 7 boasting three acts. All London based, comedians Mo Gilligan and George Lewis will be performing highly amusing stand up with cult cabaret comedy favourite Fake Bush as MC. There will certainly be something for everyone and dinner is included in the £30 ticket price.

Show starts 8pm. To book, call 01580 200 234 or email culture@thebellinticehurst.com 120

7TH » Thrill on Film

Experience an evening of extraordinary short films from the world’s most prestigious Mountain Film Festival bringing its international tour to The Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells. Ignite your passion for adventure, action and travel through an exhilarating collection of the latest films from the most talented adventure film makers of today, whose expeditions have taken them across the far flung corners of the globe.

Showings begin at 7pm and tickets are £12.50. For more information and to book, visit www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

10TH » Shall we Dance?

Don your finest vintage dress and head down to the Stag Plaza in Sevenoaks on April 10 for a fun afternoon tea dance.

The Jean Bentley Dance Orchestra will be playing popular classics spanning from the 20s to 40s, and you won’t be able to resist moving your feet! Through the afternoon, Ballroom and Latin dance tutorials will take place leading to social dances and a short cabaret.

Doors open 2pm and tickets start from £6. To book visit www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk

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W H AT ’ S O N

SO

18TH » Folk Festivity

As part of the Tonbridge Folk club, popular duo Vicki Swan and Jonny Dyer will be performing in the upstairs function room of the Foresters Arms in Tonbridge.

In addition to their effortless blend of traditional material with contemporary sounds, Vicki and Jonny will showcase original self-penned toe tapping tunes with a variety of instruments. Expect a light hearted evening with this fresh take on the folk tradition.

Shows starts at 8pm.

For more information visit www.tonbridgefolkclub.org

20TH » Spoken Words

For literary types, Javabean Cafe in Tunbridge Wells will be hosting a wonderful evening of live poetry and prose readings penned by local writers. Read Your Words is an open mic night with the opportunity to share your own short stories on the night or simply sit back and relax with drinks and nibbles to enjoy the readings in the audience.

Doors open at 7pm and entry is free.

For more information visit www.javabean-cafe.co.uk

22ND » Piano Perfection

Known as ‘the doyen of Classic FM’, Ji Liu will be performing in the Lamberhust Music Festival’s programme at St Mary’s Church in Lamberhurst on Friday April 22.

A permanent fixture on Classic FM, Ji Liu’s debut Piano Reflections was released by the radio show to critical acclaim and immediately went on to become No.1 in the classical charts. This extremely talented pianist is not one to miss!

Starts at 7:30pm, tickets are £20. To book, visit www.lamberhurstmusic.co.uk

26TH » Choral Composition

An ensemble of Sevenoaks School’s classical choirs will perform and be led by the Sevenoaks School Choral Society on Tuesday April 26. Set in the atmospheric Pamoja Hall of The Space in Sevenoaks, the Sennocke Consort will perform Mendelssohn’s much loved classic anthem Hear My Prayer with its famous solo O, for the Wings of a Dove.

This Alan Adler memorial concert is a must-hear for lovers of choral and orchestral music and starts at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £7. For more information visit www.thespacesevenoaks.co.uk APRIL 2016

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C U LT U R E

SO

INSIDE VIEW This month, Paul Dunton gives us an insight into the life and times of local musician and photographer CJ from Code: Marla

C

hris Thorpe aka ‘CJ’ is a popular and

enjoyed very positive reviews and the sound

renowned musician based in Tunbridge

evolved considerably during this period.

wells. CJ started performing live 15 years

CJ called upon several local musicians to

CJ cuts his trade as a professional photographer and co-runs Sandgoose Photography with his friend and colleague

ago with his emo/indie rock influenced band

be involved in the Code: Marla project

Chelle Lane. The duo work throughout the

Dysuria. The band gigged locally, mainly at

including Fraser Hall on guitar, Millie Davis

Kent and Sussex region, specialising in

The Tunbridge Wells Forum and a few other

on vocals, Frances Yonge piano/vocals,

product photography, portraits and

venues across the county.

Mystery Clarke (guitar) and`Richard Smyth

composites. CJ studied photography

adding further samples and synth ideas.

and media at college, graduating in 2005,

began to change direction and he took a

The sound had a Massive Attack/Portishead

and has since worked as a product

large interest in various forms of Electronica

feel at times, and when watching

photographer and graphic artist for

music and in 2005 he formed a new project

Code: Marla live you’re in for a unique

several different companies before

Code: Marla, inspired by a new influence

soundscape experience.

establishing Sandgoose.

Over the next few years, CJ’s music tastes

named Red Snapper, who in the early 2000s

Watching them for the very first time,

Sandgoose are also keen supporters of the

were making serous waves in the UK as a

I felt completely absorbed within the sound;

local music scene and are working closely

live drum and bass outfit. There appeared to

the music almost has a hypnotic effect,

with many musicians offering their services

be elements of dub step, trip hop and

drawing the listener in effortlessly. Since the

for album artwork and design, band profile

ministry of sound ‘chill out’ vibes within CJ’s

band’s beginnings in 2005 they have gigged

shoots and live gig photography.

songwriting style and the Code: Marla live

extensively across Kent and Sussex at a

sound was rich in heavy bass lines and full of

range of venues. CJ has been a strong

music by candlelight series at the Grey Lady

ghostly, atmospheric samples.

supporter of the local music scene for many

music lounge on The Pantiles.

In 2011 the first Code: Marla album was

years and can be often found cheering on

They are also proud sponsors of the local

To find out more about Sandgoose visit

successfully self-released and two ep’s

other local groups and musicians at their gigs

their website www.sandgoose.com and

followed in 2013 and 2014 on independent

and also performs with fellow musician

check in with all the latest goings on with

label Bit Normal records. All three releases

Mystery Clarke in his band.

CJ’s band at www.codemarla.com

APRIL 2016

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T H E AT R E

ENCORE

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Shout! Lulu, the singer-songwriter from the 60s still has plenty to shout about.

The Grammy-nominated singer will be performing hits from her 50 year career, such as To Sir With Love, The Man Who

Sold The World, Relight My Fire and, of

This season’s top theatre picks

course, Shout. As well as performing

T

songs from some of her musical heroes, heatre, music, comedy, spoken

such as soul legends, Ray Charles and

word, entertainment…you name it,

Otis Redding, she will also be taking us

The Assembly Hall Theatre has it!

on a musical journey recalling personal

Whether you’re a music fan, theatre

anecdotes, song writing experiences, and

fiend or comedy fanatic, the Assembly Hall Theatre has something to offer you.

other entertaining stories.

Renowned elephant conservationist

Following a £1.5million refurbishment, the

and wildlife television presenter, Saba

theatre stands as the cultural and

Douglas-Hamilton, will be talking wildlife.

economic hub of Tunbridge Wells, proudly

Known to millions of television viewers

hosting world-class performers from

for This Wild Life and Big Cat Diaries,

thrilling and diverse backgrounds.

Saba will entertain audiences with

“2015 has been an exceptional

exciting animal stories and intimate behind the scenes tales of life in Kenya

year for me, in a 50-year

with her young family. Born in the Great

career. From performing at

of conservation charities and has

Glastonbury, releasing my first self-penned album and

Rift Valley, she has worked for a variety appeared in wildlife documentaries and

Magicians Pete Firman, Kiwi compere Jarred Christmas and unbeaten legend, Never Mind The Buzzcocks team captain and one of Channel 4’s ‘100 Greatest Stand-Ups in the World’ Sean Hughes.

Antony Costa best known for being one of the members of the group Blue stars in a new UK tour of rock ‘n’ roll musical Save the Last Dance for Me, sweeping audiences back to the 1960s. From the same team that brought audiences Dreamboats and Petticoats comes Save The Last Dance for Me, a show that brings the swinging 60s back to life – including some of the biggest hits of the decade. The new UK tour is an opportunity for audiences to get nostalgic, as they follow the journey of two teenage sisters through the summer of 1963 and features the classic hits of Pomus & Shuman including A Teenager in Love; Sweets for my Sweet; Here I go Again, Can’t Get Used to Losing You to name but a few.

A great night, guaranteed!

is currently a director of Elephant Watch Camp in Kenya’s Samburu National

LULU: Mon April 18

Reserve. A Life with Elephants includes a

ALL STAR STAND UP: Sun April 17

fabulous band for the first

Q&A session.

SABA DOUGLAS-HAMILTON: Wed April 20

time in 10 years. I had so

The All-Star Stand Up tour presents

OTIS REDDING JNR: Wed May 11

four heavyweight comics in the biggest

SAVE THE LAST DANCE FOR ME:

much fun, I’ve decided to get

comedy tour of the year. Featuring

Mon 4 to Sat 9 July

touring the UK, solo with my

back out there to do it again, and I can’t wait!” - LULU

double Sony Award winner and star of

Mock The Week Gary Delaney, top comedy trickster and star of BBC 1’s The

www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk Box office 01892 530 613

APRIL 2016

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ADVERTORIAL

The Fairfax Gallery will be starting the Spring with an exhibition to brighten up the season. Further images of the original paintings from the artists featured and many more can be viewed on our website www.fairfaxgallery.com The gallery offers services for private clients, interior designers including a home trail service to view art works in your own home or office to ensure the perfect piece.

ON THIS PAGE Adam Hargreaves Wild Garlic Flowers Oil on Canvas 150 x 108 cm David Atkins Late Evening on the Ashdown Oil on Canvas 122 x 135 cm Gemma Harwood Tunbridge Wells in Gold OS Map with Gold Leaf on Panel 110 x 120 cm Jenny Pockley Steel Grey London Oil on Panel 31 x 41 cm

Open seven days a week â&#x20AC;˘ 23 The Pantiles (Lower Walk), Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TD

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ADVERTORIAL

The Fairfax Gallery will be holding a solo exhibition of paintings by Shaun Ferguson between 19th - 23rd April at 8 Duke Street St James’s London.

A graduate from the Royal Academy Schools and previous outright winner of the Discerning Eye, ‘New Discovery Award’ (at the time the largest financial award bestowed on any artists in an open competition in the UK) Shaun’s work has been praised by critics and is held in major private and public collections around the world. Further information regarding the exhibition can be viewed on our website.

ON THIS PAGE Shaun Ferguson Books Acrylic on Canvas 66 x 61 cm Shaun Ferguson Headdress Acrylic on Canvas 76 x 76 cm Shaun Ferguson Sheet Acrylic on Canvas 66 x 61 cm Shaun Ferguson Boxer Oil on Canvas 65 x 60 cm

Tel: 01892 525 525

www.fairfaxgallery.com

3

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Sardinian Paradise an Island of Unique Beauty

11 days from £1,499* *Departs 10 Oct 2016. Other departure dates available.

The Best of the Canary Islands Island hopping to Tenerife and Gran Canaria

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Europe&UK Compendium

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24/03/2016 15:37

L U X U R Y T R AV E L

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SO

EXPLORING EUROPE You don’t have to travel to the other side of the world to discover some stunning destinations

T

aking an escorted land tour is a

architectural treasures beyond compare,

GERMANY

perfect way to discover Europe.

along with a cultural and culinary

River boat tours are one popular way to

Relax in supreme comfort and allow

heritage that is the envy of the world.

explore Germany, with options including

yourself to be guided along on expertly-

From Norway’s glacier-carved northern

voyages along the Rhine or Elbe. With

planned itineraries. River cruising gives

coast within the Arctic Circle, down to

European breaks like this, you’ll get the

an alternative perspective to the

the compelling variety of scenery across

chance to learn about the history of the

continent’s myriad delights and, with

Turkey to the south, from majestic

places you pass through, as well as

multiple destinations visited in a single

Russia in the east, the geological marvel

getting to see some of the most

trip, the sense of value is unmatched.

of Iceland to the west and everything in

spectacular settings from an entirely

Both allow you to literally watch the

between, Europe offers a complex blend

new perspective. From the Black Forest

world go by and enjoy an evolving

of culture, cuisine, countryside and

to the busy streets of Berlin, medieval

backdrop of awesome scenery whatever

creativity virtually at our front door.

villages, and fairytale-like castles sitting

the weather.

They say that home is where the heart

Here are some of our favourite destination ideas:

high atop steep cliffs, there are a vast array of sights to enjoy on a river cruise through Germany.

is, and when you consider the characterful collection of islands that we

FRANCE

have the privilege of calling our home, it

There’s no doubt that France lives

SCANDINAVIA

is no surprise that for some, the perfect

up to its reputation as a romantic

With scenic landscapes and regions that

holiday means exploring the many

country with a unique, serene beauty

seem completely untouched by humans, a

charms that surround us in the UK. Be

and plenty of history, in addition to fine

tour of Scandinavia is a popular choice for

inspired by the spectacular beaches of

foods and many of the world’s most

those who enjoy spending time in the

the Cornish coast or the captivating and

renowned wines. Whether you are

great outdoors. You’ll also get to experience

intricate wealth of history to be found in

intrigued by fashion, history, architecture

many of the metropolitan areas of

our great cities. Opt for a short break to

or simply the Parisian way of life, a

Denmark, Norway and Sweden. Or why

have a little something to look forward

trip to Paris won’t disappoint – and a

not opt for a Baltic cruise that sails from

to, perfectly highlighting the wonders

cruise along the Seine is a fantastic way

Dover to St Petersburg, with stops in

within our own geographical back yard

to see landmarks like Notre Dame, the

Copenhagen, Stockholm and Helsinki?

and generate travel memories that

Hotel de Ville and the Eiffel Tower.

redefine ‘domestic bliss’.

Alternatively, you could get away from

 Wherever you want to go, escorted

the hustle and bustle to see what else

European tours from Titan are a great

choices at home and across the globe, it

the country has to offer. Normandy,

way to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

is easy to overlook the pleasures to be

Burgundy and the Rhone Valley are

For more information please contact

enjoyed in our own extraordinary

three excellent destinations, while those

Baldwins Travel Group

continent. Yet the countries of Europe

looking for some sand and sunshine

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present scenic splendour and artistic and

could head to Nice and the Riviera.

#HolidayInspirations

With virtually unlimited holiday

Panoramic image of Dresden, Germany during sunset with Elbe River in the foreground.

APRIL 2016

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22/03/2016 17:40

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L U X U R Y T R AV E L

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SO

SPOTLIGHT ON ITALY When it comes to booking an Italian escape, not all roads lead to Rome…

A

captivating and stunning country,

from boutique to boutique, people-

LAKE MAGGIORE

Italy boasts some of the most

watching over a coffeem and

AND LAKE COMO

spectacular landscapes in Europe. The

sitting on the beach at the edge

The Italian lakes are magnificent.

soaring mountains and glittering lakes

of the sparkling sea.

Lake Maggiore, stretching for

of the north give way to pretty

40 miles and straddling the border

vineyards set amidst rolling

CAPRI

between Italy and Switzerland,

countryside and glorious beaches

Off the coast of Positano you’ll find the

is a natural phenomenon that has

lapped by sparkling turquoise

island of Capri. Take a trip to Villa

drawn visitors for years. Many

waters. Packed full of unforgettable

Jovis, the best preserved Roman villa in

people’s first stop is Isola Bella –

highlights, a holiday to Italy might

Italy, to discover its charms for

‘Beautiful Island’ – with its sumptuous

take you to world-famous cities and

yourself. You can also wander around

palace and breathtaking gardens.

traditional hilltop villages. Along

the gardens of Caesar and then take a

A few miles east of Maggiore is Lake

the way, ancient historical wonders

chair lift to the highest point on the

Como. Shaped like an inverted Y, it

await you at every turn and the

island for dazzling views of the

boasts incredible scenery and two

delicious regional cuisine can be

mainland.

notable towns, Como and Bellagio.

SAN GIMIGNANO

LE MARCHE

Heading north from the Amalfi coast

For an authentic Italian experience look

POMPEII

and past the beautiful city of Siena

no further than Le Marche, which is

The ancient city of Pompeii was frozen

you’ll soon come across the unique

just as beautiful but offers a slower

in time on August 24 79AD when it

hilltop village of San Gimignano.

pace of life and has fewer visitors than

was smothered in volcanic debris,

Studded with 14 medieval towers – the

the country’s hot spots. Enjoy this

killing the inhabitants and casting

result of a feud between two warring

stunning coastline and head inland to

their forms in great ash dunes. As you

families – its silhouette is striking to

discover an unspoilt region with

explore this vast area, boasting well-

say the least. The narrow streets are an

beautiful vistas, lush vineyards and

preserved buildings still displaying

inspiring setting and play host to

intriguing historic sites.

colourful frescoes, you get a palpable

amazing coffee shops and gelateria.

enjoyed with a glass of exquisite local wine.

sense of life in Roman times.

 Wherever you choose to explore, FLORENCE

join Travelsphere on a tour of this

POSITANO

With world-renowned galleries

romantic land and we’ll help you fall

‘Picturesque’ is the go-to word

and exquisite architecture at every

in love with Italy’s enchanting

when describing Italian towns

turn, each winding street leads to

atmosphere and breathtaking beauty.

but when talking about Positano

another jaw-dropping sight in Florence.

Contact your local Baldwins Travel

it doesn’t come near to capturing

If the bustle of this fine city – home to

Group branch for a brochure or to

its beauty. It’s a popular spot that

some of the greatest art in the world

discuss any Italian itinerary.

clings to the cliff’s edge, where

– gets too much, the peace of the

www.baldwinstravel.co.uk

the best activities are popping

Tuscan hills is within easy reach.

#HolidayInspirations

Tuscany hills and meadow

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L U X U R Y T R AV E L

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

A VAST ADVENTURE With so much to see and experience in Canada, you might just have to book a return trip to fit it all in…

C

anada is the perfect place to

Newfoundland, which is actually

explore with family and friends.

closer to us than to Vancouver on

As the second largest country in the

the West coast! One of the great

world, this hugely diverse

train journeys of the world is ‘The

destination has something for

Canadian’ which travels from

everyone and will certainly provide

Toronto to Vancouver and takes an

memories to last a lifetime. A visit to

incredible five days!

Canada also guarantees great value

132

The seasons in Canada are the same

for money and a warm welcome,

as ours, although the difference

with most visitors quickly planning

between seasons is much more

a return trip to this huge land.

pronounced. They have warm, sun

The main tip when planning a

filled summers and ice cold winters

holiday to Canada is to realise just

(with exceptions), so make sure you

how big the country is and try not to

plan to go at the correct time,

include too much in one trip. The

depending on the type of experience

closest point to the UK is

you are looking for.

APRIL 2016

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L U X U R Y T R AV E L

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SO

Beautiful Moraine Lake in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada

from Calgary, Banff or Jasper to

rated as one of the best places in the

spectacular area to visit is the mighty

Vancouver on the west coast and

world to live and has a vibrant feel with

Canadian Rockies. Striding the border

provides a ‘once in a lifetime’

a stunning backdrop. Canada’s largest

between Alberta and British Columbia

experience. There is also a new route

city, Toronto, is found in the east and is

these snow capped peaks provide some

that travels along the Fraser River from

a perfect place for a shopping break. It

of the most incredible views on earth.

Jasper to Whistler and offers the same

offers a huge selection of museums,

The resort towns of Banff and Jasper are

impeccable service with a different type

theatres, restaurants and galleries and

the perfect place from which to explore,

of stunning scenery.

is only two hours from one of the

The most popular and perhaps

with a visit to Lake Louise and its world

If you are looking to get off the beaten

wonders of the world, Niagara Falls.

The French influenced Montreal and

famous hotel a must. Keep your camera

track or experience some close up

ready for grizzly and black bear, moose,

wildlife viewing then activities such as

Quebec City are perfect places to

elk and much more when exploring this

heli-hiking or a visit to see the Grizzly

discover some of Canada’s rich history

area, and find time to set foot on the

bears of Knight Inlet are a must. For

while enjoying some wonderful cuisine.

Athabasca Glacier.

something a little different, board one

There are excellent rail links from here

of the Alaskan Cruises to explore some

to Toronto, Niagara Falls and the

breathtaking surroundings is to take a

of the most spectacular and unspoilt

capital city, Ottawa. Travelling in

trip on the two day Rocky Mountaineer

scenery on earth. Choose from a

Canada couldn’t be easier.

train journey. Described as the most

selection of state of the art ships with a

spectacular train trip in the world, it

wealth of facilities and offering great

 1st Class Holidays operate

offers a daylight only service with a

value for money.

through Baldwins Travel

A wonderful way to experience these

choice between comfortable Silverleaf or luxurious Goldleaf service. It travels

Canada also offers some wonderful city experiences. Vancouver is often

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22/03/2016 17:43

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JOIN US FOR • Coffee & Bacon rolling on a rolling basis• 18 Holes Championship Course• 2 Course meal with presentation of prizes • Competitions: Hole in 1 • Beat the Pro • Hickory Challenge.

Excellent opportunity to bring your colleagues for the day or invite guests.

Package costs £260 incl VAT for a team of4 Limited Spaces xlO teams now booked on. www.hever.co. uk/sobusinessgolf

PLACES ARE LIMITED, PLEASE CALL CLAIRE ON 01732 701003 TO RESERVE YOUR TEAM OR EMAIL GOLFDAYS@HEVER.CO. UK CLOSING DATE: 30 APRIL 2016

*T&C'S APPLY - For Hole in One Competitions only.

HEVER CASTLE GOLF CLUB, HEVER ROAD, HEVER, ED ENBRIDGE, KENT. TNS 7NP Untitled-7 2

24/03/2016 15:38

SO

ADVERTORIAL

A GOOD WALK SPOILED For seasoned players and first-time beginners alike, golf is a terrific way to spend an afternoon, developing or learning a new skill and meeting likeminded people along the way. We find out about some local courses that are offering new and exciting initiatives to get you into the swing of things LULLINGSTONE PARK MORE THAN JUST A GOLF COURSE Lullingstone Park might be one of the best established and – according to some – one of the most exciting golf courses in the South East, but it’s also a great destination for anyone looking to spend time in beautiful Kent countryside. With the 18-hole castle course and its nine-hole valley course companion, Lullingstone Park is an ideal spot for both the serious golfer and families, as Mark Watt, head professional, explains.

“Over the past few years, we’ve invested heavily in our grounds maintenance programme, and our dedicated green-keeping team have worked hard to

136

improve playing conditions and enhance the golfing experience.

“Our wonderful setting also makes us an ideal spot for families to enjoy the outdoors, and maybe have a game of pitch and putt, while The Lodge provides a setting in which to enjoy a coffee, some lunch or an afternoon drink with friends.”

Participation in golf is often restricted by the time involved, especially in a world in which many of us lead increasingly full and busy lives. That’s no reason not to enjoy the game at Lullingstone, says Mark.

“Our nine-hole is a big hitters’ course that many find challenging and rewarding. A round can be completed in two to three hours, making it ideal for the longer spring and summer evenings.”

For further details on activities and events at Lullingstone Park Golf Course, call 01959 533 793 or visit www.lullingstonegolfcourse.co.uk

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ADVERTORIAL

SO

HEVER CASTLE GOLF CLUB HEVER CASTLE GOLF CLUB is proud to be the flagship venue for Golf Like a Girl events. Golf Like a Girl was set up with the aim of encouraging and inspiring more women to enjoy golf. The events at Hever have been very well attended since spring 2015 and continue to grow throughout 2016.

Founder of Golf Like a Girl, Tanya Wright, identified Hever Castle Golf Club as a perfect venue for women, from complete beginners onwards. It can be daunting coming along for the first time, so the warm welcome that all the women receive aims to puts everyone at ease.

Events start off in the clubhouse over coffee and a chance to meet the rest of the group, many of whom have never played golf before.

The Castle Golf School professionals then teach 90 minutes of coaching in a relaxed, ‘no pressure’ way. Covering all the

friendly group is key to what we do.

The numbers of women returning after the first, often nerve-wracking session speak for themselves, as there is now a thriving community of women at Hever, both on and off the course.

For more details about our upcoming events, please go to www.golflikeagirluk. com or call Hever Castle Golf Club Professional Shop on 01732 700 771.

main golf shots, everyone can have a try without worrying about how they do, as everyone is in the same boat. Women can progress on to ‘Game On’ sessions, which are two-hour lessons played entirely on The Princes nine-hole course. All events end with a delicious lunch in Hever Castle Clubhouse.

Learning to play golf in a sociable,

Join us for a Golf Like A Girl event at Hever Castle Golf Club, Kent

For more information please visit www.golflikeagirluk.com Contact Tanya, Peter or Marisa at Hever Castle Golf Club on proshop@hever.co.uk / 01732 700771

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ONE WARWICK PARK HOTEL

Grand

OPENING JUNE 2016 For advanced room or event reservations contact us on: 01892 507 691 I info@onewarwickpark.co.uk To keep up with the latest hotel developments go to www.onewarwickpark.co.uk

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Model shown is the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider at OTR £63,600 which includes Alfa Red pastel paint at £600, Carbon fibre halo at £1,800, 18-19" Multi-spoke alloy wheels with dark finish at £1,350, Red brake callipers at £350. Range of official fuel consumption figures for the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider: Urban 28.0 (10.11/100km); Extra Urban 55.4 (5.11/100km); Combined 40.9 (6.91/lOOkm). C0 2 emissions 161 g/km. Fuel consumption and co, figures are obtained for comparative purposes in accordance with EC directives/regulations and may not be representative of real-life driving conditions.

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PA PHOTO/ JAMES LIPMAN

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MAKE MINE A BENTLEY Matt Kimberley takes this super new SUV for a spin…

T

he Bentley Bentayga –

SPACE AND PRACTICALITY

pronounced with a capital ‘A’

A big boot and useful cabin storage

sound in the middle – is the

combine to make good on the

newest, fastest and most luxurious

Bentayga’s promise of space. The boot

SUV you can buy. It’s packed with

lip is high, but you can customise it

exquisite detailing that lifts it above

with a practical fold-down ledge for

the rest of the SUV crowd, plus

sitting on. Beyond that is a capacious

technology that helps it drive

boot, three rear seats with loads of

shockingly well.

legroom and the back half of four-zone

It’s more than 5.1 metres long, two metres wide, even excluding the

climate control. Just be careful with the beautifully soft leather, won’t you?

mirrors, and weighs 2.5 tonnes with a driver on board. Under the bonnet is

BEHIND THE WHEEL

an all-new 6.0-litre W12 engine that

The 12 cylinders deliver near-instant,

shares not a single nut, bolt or screw

crushing, relentless torque that’s

with its predecessor. Two banks of six

seamlessly delivered to the road via

cylinders diagonally interlaced provide

four independently electrically-

600bhp and a creamy 664lb/ft of

controlled wheels of up to 22 inches

torque courtesy of two twin-scroll

across. It’s breathtakingly quick. You

turbochargers.

can’t completely escape 2.5 tonnes, but the Bentayga stays implausibly flat

THIS CAR SUMMED UP IN A SINGLE WORD:

LOOKS AND IMAGE

through corners thanks to a 48-volt

Here’s the divisive bit. The back is a

electrical system that tweaks the

little bland and could belong to a few

ever-plush suspension while you drive.

other brands if you squint, but small

Carrying indecent speed through

tweaks to the front since the concept

corners without body roll is the big

stage have improved it no end. It’s

Bentley’s party piece, but the rest of

colour-sensitive, though, and you’ll

the package is sublime. The multi-way

want to pitch for one of the beautiful

adjustable seats are all-day comfy, the

reds, greens or blues. Bentayga brown

driving position is perfect behind the

is a choice you might come to regret.

slightly-too-chunky steering wheel and

clouds rubbing together. It doesn’t

Either way, the lustrous paint finishes

the obviously Volkswagen Group-

sound as good under power as the

are utterly gorgeous.

sourced satnav interface is a dream to

Mulsanne and the brakes should be

use. There’s even a good sense of feel

stronger, but otherwise, it’s

and feedback at the wheel.

exceptional.

There are no image worries here. It’s a Bentley in every way; true to what the modern brand stands for and true to the

MIGHTY

It’s also so quiet that you’ll think

direction the company’s founder W.O.

you’ve gone deaf. In traffic, you’d think

VALUE FOR MONEY

Bentley would have wanted for it. If you

it was electric, and even at 70mph and

For a starting price more than double

like the idea of a luxury SUV, there’s

1,500rpm in the eighth of the buttery-

that of the Range Rover, it depends

nothing more appealing in the world.

smooth gearbox’s ratios, it’s like two

how much you want that exclusivity,

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FACTS

SO

BENTLEY BENTAYGA, FROM £160,200 Engine: Turbocharged W12 petrol producing 600bhp and 664lb/ft Transmission: Eight-speed automatic driving all four wheels Performance: Top speed 187mph, 0-62mph in 4.1 seconds Economy: 21.6mpg Emissions: 296g/km

that badge and the mind-boggling

a Range Rover seems a bit budget by

to reach adequate profitability –

attention to detail on offer here.

comparison.

they’ll easily shift all 5,000 they can build every 12 months. People with

But £1,400 to have a craftsman pick up a different colour of thread with

WHO WOULD BUY ONE?

the means will buy the Bentayga

which to stitch the dashboard does

SUVs are so popular the world over,

simply because it’s the best.

seem a bit unreasonable – and that’s

that when you think about it, it’s

just one of up to £70,000 worth of

surprising it’s taken car makers like

options on the press launch cars.

Bentley so long to build a hyper-

If this car was a... hotel it would have

luxury one. The company has already

five stars, a peerless interior and

raised its target of 3,600 units a year

tangible heritage in its workmanship.

Price issues aside, nothing can touch its combination of qualities and

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SBI Verandas & Awnings

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so

AND

EVENTS

SIMPLY SMALLHYTHE

SO

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Why this National Trust property is a must-see

PAGES OF HOMES, INTERIORS & GARDENS

PAGE 158

THYME TO PLANT

How herbs can enhance your cooking PAGE 199

GREY’S ANATOMY

The essential new shade for your home PAGE 148

BEAUTIFUL WEALDEN HOMES…OUTDOOR SEATING…GARDEN ARTWORK…CONTEMPORARY LIGHTING… F E B R UA RY 2 0 1 5

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Untitled-19 2

NEPTUNE

24/03/2016 12:46

SO

INTERIORS

557 SHADES OF GREY

Why experts are dubbing grey the ‘new magnolia’…

O

nce upon a time, magnolia ruled in homes. The warm peachy shade was for years apparently the only choice for walls – until out of the shadows came grey.

“It’s an interior designer’s murder mystery – did grey kill magnolia?” teases Kate Watson-Smyth, whose new book, Shades of Grey, focuses on the power of a grey palette and explains in crystal clear fashion, spiced with a liberal dash of humour, how to use it stylishly.

“Nowadays poor old magnolia’s a byword for all that is bland, blah and boring in interiors, even though in its heyday it was lauded as being practical because it didn’t show the dirt, and its soft colour instantly suggested homeliness. “Unfortunately, new lighting in the nineties, not grey, was the real culprit, which gradually brought about its demise. The harsher, cooler, clearer

148

light of halogen, LED and fluorescent lamps, which replaced incandescent bulbs, simply made magnolia look terrible and left the field clear for grey, which now rules the roost. Our love of all things Nordic and the popularity of grey in fashion has also played a part in our passion for this palette.”

Fresh, modern and easy to match to other colours, it’s perhaps hardly surprising that elegant, sophisticated grey is currently regarded as the perfect neutral. There’s only one snag – deciding which shade to choose. As if the names for shades weren’t baffling enough – take these, ‘Elephant’s Breath’ is actually mid-grey, ‘Blackened’ is actually pale blue, bestselling ‘Down Pipe’ is dark grey while ‘Clooney’ (named after George, natch) is a bluey grey – the number on offer can induce paint chart paralysis.

Fifty shades? Forget it – Dulux recently expanded its range and now offers a

mind-boggling 557 greys. “Grey’s one of the hardest colours to get right when it comes to decorating your home. Get it wrong and the effect can be cold and energysapping, but if it’s right it will look ultra-chic and modern, so although it takes a bit of mastering, it’s well worth it,” says WatsonSmyth. “To find the best shade, you need to consider a few key things, including which direction your room faces, what time of day you’ll be in there, the prevailing weather and, last of all, the actual shade you like!

“Hopefully, by understanding grey, you’ll be spared from buying a zillion expensive sample pots, having walls daubed with confusing splashes of paint, or painting a whole room in the wrong shade and finding it resembles a prison cell! I’ve done it myself in my kitchen and had to repaint it.

Just be warned, once you’ve gone grey, you’ll be hooked.”

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INTERIORS

SO

{ SEE THE LIGHT {

Grey’s enduring popularity over the last decade is partly down to the cold, clear northern light we enjoy in this country – put simply, grey just looks good here – but always evaluate how much natural light a room gets and the direction it comes from.“For a small and dark north-facing room, don’t fight the space by painting it a pale colour,” says Watson-Smyth. “Instead, embrace its cosiness. Pick a strong shade of grey – as near to black as you dare – and use on every wall. The warm light of a south-facing room allows you more freedom of choice – pale greys can work as well as dark ones. East and west-facing rooms can be tricky, as the light will change from warm to cold as the sun moves across the sky. The secret is to look for a shade which will warm the cool and tone down the warm. For east-facing rooms, try greys with a blue or green base.” A shade to consider, she suggests, is Little Greene’s French Grey, a warm pale grey which won’t dominate or darken a space. Absolute matt emulsion, £19.25 for 1L (www.littlegreene.com).

EXPERT VIEW: “I started by painting one alcove in my house grey – it’s a good way to experiment with a shade - and then fell in love with the colour and painted the whole house in dark grey. It’s the best interiors move I ever made,” enthuses interior designer Abigail Ahern. To be safe, buy a sample pot and apply a generous amount in various places in a room, to see how the colour alters at different times of the day.

{GREY MATTERS{

PA FEATURE/RYLAND PETERS & SMALL

Always consider the effect that your existing furniture, textiles and flooring may have on a paint shade – no grey is ever seen in isolation. “Grey goes with all the other colours on the wheel, so you could throw in some pink until you feel like a change, and then maybe swap it for orange or yellow. It’s probably more affordable to swap the accessories than the wall colour,” suggests Watson-Smyth. “Be aware, though, that light will bounce off a bright pink sofa and turn walls slightly violet. Modern LEDs often throw out light with a blueish tinge, which will add to the pink purple effect. If you’re concerned a room may look too plain painted all grey, use a textured wallpaper as a base to add interest. Skirting boards and radiators painted the same grey as walls will open up and enhance a space and painting a ceiling a paler shade of the wall colour, rather than white, can also be effective.”

EXPERT VIEW: “Grey has a mercurial personality. It can be masculine or feminine, strong or subtle, depending on how it’s used and the overall design palette,” says American designer Kelly Wearstler. “I love playing shades of grey off metallic, marble or handpainted silk wall coverings in a room. A monochrome palette of grey and white allows geometric forms, patterns and textures to have a stronger voice.”

{ MAKING GREY WORK {

How you use a room has a bearing on the intensity of grey you should use. “If you’re in a room mainly in the evening, or always have the lights on, you can afford to opt for a dark shade,” advises Watson-Smyth. “Rooms in use all day long and beyond, such as a kitchen where you also eat in the evening, require a grey which works with natural or electric light. For daylight hours, dark grey will work particularly well if you have a reasonably light room to start with. Dark walls in a kitchen work well with a light floor and cabinets – choose warm greys for north-facing rooms and cool greys for south-facing rooms. Dining rooms, which often suffer from lack of light, can be painted in dark greys which will conjure an intimate, cosy atmosphere but if this room’s also used in the day, opt for a lighter grey.”

EXPERT VIEW: “Grey paint is like the chocolate on a biscuit.

Just as that will bring out the flavour of the biscuit, so grey brings out the depth of the other colours it sits with,” says Marianne Shillingford, creative director of Dulux.

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INTERIORS

SO

BLOOMINGVILLE

White flower pendant ceiling light, £300 www.amara.com

DESIGN MY WORLD LTD Jeeves pendant light, £195 www.designmyworld.net

BRIGHT START

KENSINGTON DESIGN

Virginia Casa luminarie baroque tureen lamp, £258 www.kensingtondesign.com

A selection of quirky lighting accessories to brighten your home

MADE WITH LOVE

Glass bell jar cloche lamp, £99.95 www.madewithlovedesigns.co.uk

RUME

Large construction lamp, £3,001 www.rume.co.uk

NEXT

Wooden star feature light, £40 www.next.co.uk

DESIGN 55 INTERIORS

Customisable cinematic lightbox, £34.99 www.design55online.co.uk

DOWSING AND REYNOLDS

Giant illuminated heart, £299 www.dowsingandreynolds.com

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NT/JOHN MILLER

INTERIORS

THE PLACE TO BE Susannah Mayor is the House Steward at Smallhythe Place near Tenterden. Here, she explains what’s involved in maintaining the National Trust property, which belonged to actress Dame Ellen Terry…

How have you been preparing for the season ahead?

We spend the winter checking and cleaning every object in our collection – over 9,000 items. It is also the time that we plan events and create new exhibitions.

What tasks will you be undertaking around the house this April?

Every Saturday I will do a tour of our costume stores to reveal more about the fantastic theatrical costumes in our collection and the stories behind them. This has to be booked as there are limited places but it is a chance to share some of the collection which is not normally seen.

What is your approach to the property, both in terms of preserving its heritage and moving forward?

We have a particularly special collection at

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Smallhythe which belonged to Dame Ellen Terry – it is indigenous and irreplaceable.

This governs certain aspects of how we do things – for example many N.T properties with sacrificial elements to their collection now encourage visitors to sit on the chairs, play the piano etc. We can’t do this without damaging what we have, but we don’t have ropes and we do try to make everything as accessible as possible and to preserve the very special atmosphere of the house.

Which original features still remain in the property?

The house is very well preserved and looks at the front as it would have done in 1515 when it was built. The wooden slides on the upstairs windows survive from a time when there were shutters but no glass, the old inglenook remains and the majority of the structure of the

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house and its layout is original.

The charming 17th century barn in the grounds which houses the theatre is a good example of a Wealden barn which once accommodated livestock, crops and animal feed. The theatre was created in 1929 and is a wonderful intimate space with a remarkable history; Sir John Gielgud performed here many times and was the patron from 1947 until his death.

NT/JOHN HAMMOND

What is the biggest challenge at Smallhythe?

The biggest challenge is looking after the 250 Victorian theatre costumes. Wood, metal, paper etc is comparatively straight forward but textiles are more complicated.

They are susceptible to insect damage, mould and deterioration due to age. We keep them in a specially designed store where the temperature and humidity are carefully monitored. The conservation of the costumes can be very expensive if they need specialist attention. The Beetle wing dress which is on display is one of the most famous pieces of theatre costume in

NT/J WHITAKER

NT/JOHN MILLER

INTERIORS

England and cost tens of thousands of pounds to be conserved five years ago.

The money was raised with many kind contributions from supporters and from the theatrical world.

What’s your favourite area or element of the property?

I love the calm of this house; there is a particular quality to the garden too, a very real sense of wellbeing. My favourite element is possibly the collection of scripts in the library; they belonged to Ellen Terry and are heavily annotated in her lovely handwriting. They give a great insight into her thoughts when approaching a part, she also treated them as scrap books so they contain much of interest.

Is there anything in particular that visitors should look out for this season?

In June Dame Eileen Atkins is coming to perform here in the Barn Theatre – Ellen Terry with Eileen Atkins which she recently performed at the Globe. With this in mind we have put on display E.T’s original lectures which were adapted for this production; they accompanied her to America and Australia and again are covered in extra notes and comments.

We have a very busy events programme featuring lots of Shakespeare to commemorate 400 years since his death as well as family entertainment and activities for children.

How can visitors recreate something of the Smallhythe feel in their own homes?

Ellen Terry had very good taste and furnished this house in country oak furniture to suit its simplicity, she loved cut flowers from the garden to be in the house and even had daffodils sent up from Smallhythe to her house in Chelsea when she wasn’t here .

What’s the most popular time for visitors at Smallhythe Place?

The roses are beautiful in June and this is a popular time but we are always busiest in the summer when our visitors can enjoy the garden, a picnic or an outside production as well as visit the house.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/smallhythe-place

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IMPERIAL KOtl.ER.

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

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HOME FRONT

I

t may seem as though we’re only seeing the first shoots of spring, but keep that sunshine at the forefront of your mind, because now is the perfect time to think about buying a new home in time for summer, where you can enjoy beautiful interiors as well as embrace the outdoors. Our selection of properties this month are filled with opportunities to do so with

glorious gardens, terraces ideal for alfresco dining and space for recreational activities with enticing swimming pools and tennis courts. Let us be on hand to assist in your search for your perfect new Wealden home, with properties that are bound to tempt you and your family. From historic architecture to country houses, we’re sure there’s something for everyone.

GRAND DESIGN

RUSTIC RETREAT

CREATIVE COUNTRY HOME

WOODLAND RETREAT

GOTHIC GRANDEUR

Handsome 19th century

Striking Grade II Listed

An attractive 1930s

A contemporary family

A Victorian country house

Regency style mansion

farmhouse and annex

Arts and Crafts style

house situated in the

in a wonderful elevated

in Cranbrook

in Hawkhurst

house in Oxted

glorious Ashdown Forest

setting in Kilndown

Price: £2,999,995

Price: £1,295,000

Price: £2,750,000

Price: £1,750,000

Price: £2,950,000

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Phillip McKnight

INTERIOR

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We will provide you with a free detailed quotation and our work will be carried out to the highest standard and fully guaranteed.

Call 01892 525 487 or 07939 299 629 for a free quote info@tunbridgewellspropertyservices.org I www.tunbridgewellspropertyservices.org

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

GRAND DESIGN Handsome 19th century Regency style mansion in Cranbrook A CLASSIC COUNTRY mansion nestled in the Kentish Weald area, Ellerslie House has undergone a recent renovation that compliments the period detailing and grandeur of its original features with sophisticated interiors and modern technology.

The property boasts high ceilings with decorative cornicing, tall sash windows, mahogany internal doors and marble fire surrounds that sit alongside the limestone masonry on the ground floor. The elegant reception rooms are of gracious proportions, including the sitting room which doubles as a cinema with a projector and surround sound system. The kitchen is fitted with handcrafted cabinetry and opens to the elegant orangery.

Double bedrooms are spread over the first and second floors

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of the house with the principal suite connecting to en suite and fitted dressing room with a luxurious pedestal mounted bath.

Bedrooms have access to contemporary bathrooms with underfloor heating. On the second floor is a kitchen, tank room and eaves storage.

Ellerslie House benefits from a self-contained cottage which is attached to the main building via the utility room. The accommodation is spread over two floors and includes a sitting room, kitchen, two bedrooms and a bathroom.

Among the 10 acres of land there are landscaped gardens predominately south facing, a particular part walled croquet lawn, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play area and tennis court. A highlight is the series of tiered ponds which flow in to the small lake.

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PROPERTY: Ellerslie House LOCATION: Gills Green, Cranbrook GUIDE PRICE: £2,999,995 BEDROOMS: 9 (including cottage) BATHROOMS: 8 (including cottage) BEST BITS: One of the many secluded spots can be found in the pool pavilion which comprises a stunning mosaic tile outdoor swimming pool and sunbathing area. n n n n n n n n n n n n n n

Orangery Cottage Sonos sound system Gymnasium block Wine cellar Pool pavilion Tennis court Children’s play area Electric gates Landscaped gardens Croquet lawn Rose garden Cranbrook school catchment area Around 10 acres of land

For full details contact: Hamptons • 01892 516 611 • www.hamptons.co.uk

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Q

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lL[J WOOD & PILCHER

Heathfield

Guide Prices £260,000 - £280,000

Available now. 2 Contemporary homes having been completely refurbishec and extended to provide beautifully appointee accommodation throughout over 3 floors.

3 BEDROOMS (2 double), KITCHEN/ BREAKFAST ROOMS, SIDING ROOMS , GROUND FLOOR WC'S, COURTYARD GARDENS, 2 ALLOCATED OFF ROAD PARKING SPACES. UNIT 1: ENJOYS 1 BATHROOM AND A CELLAR PROVIDING STORAGE. UNIT 2: ENJOYS 1 BATHROOM AND 1 EN-SUITE SHOWER ROOM. VIEWING ESSENTIAL. Heathfield is a traditional market town lying in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and in a convenient position south of Tunbridge Wells and north of the South Coast. Nearby train stations at Buxted and Stonegate give access to London.

Heathfield Office I 01435 862211 heathfield @woodandpilcher.co.uk

NAEA

" nlhcMarke:t

Other offices in Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge, Southborough, Crowborough & associated London Branch

woodandpilcher. co. uk

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

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PROPERTY: 36 Glenmore Park LOCATION: Tunbridge Wells GUIDE PRICE: £895,000

Perfect family home in a desirable location of Tunbridge Wells

BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 4 BEST BITS: The detached converted loft space has ample opportunities as either a studio, gym or office and conveniently includes a kitchen sink as well as a bathroom.

THIS STUNNING EXECUTIVE family home sits within the prestigious Glenmore Park on the desirable south side of Tunbridge Wells. Enviable views across the town are provided as the property is situated in an elevated position.

Stylishly decorated throughout, this home comprises a generous entrance hall and an open plan kitchen/dining area with wooden worktops, a ceramic sink and built-in dishwasher. The cosy separate sitting room hosts rustic details such as the feature brick inglenook fireplace and exposed ceiling beams.

Situated on the first floor are the four bedrooms, with the master benefitting from extensive built-in wardrobes and an en suite with double shower enclosure and heated towel rail. The further three bedrooms share a contemporary family bathroom fitted with a tiled panel bath.

Of particular note is the attractive tiered rear garden with several patio areas including a covered barbecue and bar space, ideal for entertaining whatever the British weather brings. This is all amongst delightful greenery, which decorates both the front and rear of the property.

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PARK HEIGHTS

Elevated position Entrance porch Cloakroom Wooden flooring Inglenook fireplace Open plan kitchen/dining room Wine cooler Master bedroom with en suite Detached studio/office Double garage Tiered garden Several patios Covered bar area Desirable location

For full details contact: Wood & Pilcher • 01892 511 211 • www.woodandpilcher.co.uk

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jackson-stops.co.uk Jackson-Stops &: Staff

Nutley, East Sussex An exciting character house extended and refurbished and creating a contemporary styled family house in a spectacular location in the Ashdown Forest with wonderful views

People Property Places Untitled-1 1

About 3,932 sq ft • Open Plan Kitchen/Dining/Living Room • Utility Room • Library • Drawing Room • Conservatory • Master Bedroom Suite • Two Guest Bedroom Suites • Two further Double Bedrooms • Single Bedroom • Family Bathroom • Detached Heritage Style Garage • Gardens Swimming Pool with Pool House and Changing Room • Two Gatehouse Rooms

Guide price: fl,750,000

Tunbridge Wells 01892

521 700

tunwells@jackson-stops.co.uk

Local &: National reach through a network of London&: Regional offices

30/03/2016 11:51

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

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PROPERTY: Little Gassons LOCATION: Nutley, East Sussex GUIDE PRICE: £1,750,000 BEDROOMS: 6 BATHROOMS: 6 BEST BITS: The drawing room enjoys wonderful

ASHDOWN FOREST RETREAT A contemporary family house situated in the glorious Ashdown Forest LITTLE GASSONS IS a wonderful detached house brimming with character and based in the spectacular location of the Ashdown Forest allowing excellent panoramic views and picturesque walks. The impressive property is built of brick and features weather boarded elevations under the tiled roof. Restored and modernised with honey coloured oak joinery, powder coated aluminium leaded light double glazed windows. The heart of the home is the large openplan contemporary styled kitchen, dining and living area and features exposed beam ceilings and travertine tiled flooring. A beautiful oak staircase leads up to the first floor which hosts five bedrooms, two with en suite and a family bathroom. The master bedroom suite situates the second floor with walk-in wardrobe and tiled shower room.

On top of being in the desirable location of the Ashdown Forest, Little Gassons boasts thriving gardens and an outdoor swimming pool, a paved seating area and a detached pool house with changing and shower room. The privacy of the property is enabled by the boundary hedging and is approached over a forest driveway.

views over the surrounding areas and benefit from a statement recessed fireplace with a large Dovre log burning stove. n Forest views n Entrance hall n Library n Open plan kitchen/dining/living area n Corian worksurfaces n Travertine tiled flooring n Master bedroom suite n Conservatory n Outdoor swimming pool n Pool house n Two gatehouse rooms n Electric oak gates n Open garage n Tranquil location

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

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30/03/2016 11:50

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The Better Letting People

24/03/2016 13:13

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council have identified the need to increase the amount of housing planned for its administrative area as commissioned in a recent report.

Sites exercise. Sites will be assessed for their suitability under a process known as Strategic Housing and Economic Land Availability Assessment (SHELAA).

The requirement for 12,960 houses (648 per year) has been identified by The Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) in Tunbridge Wells between 2013-2033.

If you own land within the Borough and would be interested in having it promoted for potential development, please contact us. The deadline for submissions is 1 August 2016.

As a result of this housing need, Tunbridge Wells are now inviting submissions to identify sites within the Borough as part of a Call for

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24/03/2016 13:14

CONNELLS.CO.UK

TUNBRIDGE WELLS High Street, Lamberhurst

SOLD 2016

Waiting Buyersâ&#x20AC;Ś.

We have waiting applicants looking for property in the village area and the St Johns, St James and St Peters area of Tunbridge Wells. If you are contemplating a move this year, and would like an appraisal of the present value of your property then we would be delighted to come and discuss the various marketing packages we have available including our Home Finder Service.

Call 01892 547966 today.

Apartments and cottages required for waiting applicants looking for this sought after village location.

Albany Hill, Tunbridge Wells

SOLD 2016

Newcomen Road, Tunbridge Wells

SOLD 2016

More 3 and 4 bedroom town houses with off road parking urgently required in the St James area.

We have couples and families looking to buy two-four bedroom houses in the St Johns area.

Ravenswood Avenue, Tunbridge Wells

Warwick Park, Tunbridge Wells

SOLD 2016

Semi-detached family homes urgently required in this area for waiting buyers.

SOLD 2016

Apartments and houses required in the village area of Tunbridge Wells.

01892 547 966 tunbridgewells@connells.co.uk 5 Vale Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1BS

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

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PROPERTY: Dorking Road

TEMPTING TOWN HOUSE A semi-detached period property in a desirable location in Tunbridge Wells SITUATED IN THE sought after St. James area of Tunbridge Wells, this house spans three floors and comprises six bedrooms and plenty of living space for the whole family. The house is within a close proximity to St. Barnabas C of E primary school and an easy walk of local amenities and shops.

Inside, wood flooring lines the entrance hall leading into the bright and spacious kitchen with island breakfast bar overlooking and providing easy access to the rear garden. Two receptions rooms consist of the living room with open fireplace and feature bay window at the front of the property and adaptable dining/TV room.

Situated on the first floor is the master bedroom which benefits from a bay window, two further bedrooms and a contemporary family bathroom with bath and a seamless walk-in shower unit.

Upstairs on the second floor are three additional, well-proportioned bedrooms or alternatively, the property can be adapted into a five bedroom home by converting one of the rooms into a study.

Outside there is a rear garden which is fully enclosed complete with patio area, lawn and a raised gravel area at the back, ideal for alfresco dining.

LOCATION: Tunbridge Wells GUIDE PRICE: £595,000 BEDROOMS: 6 BATHROOMS: 3 BEST BITS: Neutrally decorated throughout, this family home proves the perfect blank canvas for home buyers. n Two reception rooms n Three floors n Bay windows n Open fireplace n Cloakroom n Kitchen with island breakfast bar n Spacious bedrooms n En suite shower room n Patio n Enclosed rear garden n St. James area n Tunbridge Wells school catchment area

For full details contact: Andrews • 01892 515 144 • www.andrewsonline.co.uk

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j ackson -stops. co. uk Jackson-Stops &: Staff

Leeds

Offers in Excess of £1,100,000

Biddenden

Guide Price £1,050,000

An exquisite Grade II * country house of immense atmosphere in a semi rural setting affording wonderful views to the front

An extended Grade II listed country house amid beautiful landscaped gardens and grounds

* 3 Receptions * Kitchen/ Breakfast Room * 5 Bedrooms * 3 Bathrooms * Detached Home Office * Generous Garaging * Outbuilding * Gardens and Grounds inc 2 Paddocks of 1.8 acres

* CSCA *No Onward Chain*3 Reception Rooms * Conservatory * Kitchen/ Breakfast Room * 6 Bedroom s* 2 Bathrooms * Garage * Tenni s Court * Outbuildings * Ponds * Gardens and Grounds including Paddock of 3.6 acres in all

Benenden

Offers in Excess of £1 ,000,000

Quietly situated, a delightful Grade II listed country house of immense charm overlooking it s own land and beyond * CSCA * 2 Reception Rooms * Kitchen/ Breakfast Room * Study * 5 Bedrooms (1 En Suite) * Family Bathroom * Triple Garage * Period Outbuildings * Summer House * Pond * Landscaped Gardens and Grounds * Paddocks * About 9 acres in all

Broad Oak

Guide Price £895,000

An individual contemporary family home providing spacious accommodation in a peaceful rural location with stunning southerly views

Hawkhurst

Guide Price £575,000

The west wing of a picturesque Grade II listed village house steeped in history and benefiting from planning permission to extend amid pretty cottage gardens * CSCA * No Onward Chain * 2 Reception Rooms * Kitchen * 4 Bedrooms * 3 Bathrooms * Landscaped Gardens * Off road parking * EPC:D

Bethersden

Guide Price £995,000

An individual equestrian property providing about 4,000 sq ft of well presented accommodation and excellent equine facilities in a convenient rural location

* No Onward Chain * 4 Reception Rooms * Kitchen/ Dining Room * 4 Bedrooms * 3 Bath/ Shower Rooms * Double Garage * Gardens and Grounds * 3 Reception Rooms * Conservatory * Kitchen * 5 Bedrooms * 2 Bathrooms * Study * Garage * Workshop * Music Studio * Pond with fountain * including Ponds and Fountain * Approximately 0.7 acres in all * EPC: D Swimming Pool * Stables * Hay Barn * In all about 16 acres * EPC D

Cranbrook 01580 720000 cranbrook@jackson-stops.co.uk Local &: National reach through a network of London &: Regional offices

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People Property Places 24/03/2016 15:45

Coll Carol@ Firefiy Properties 01892 838363 for details carol@fireflyproperties.co.uk Untitled-1 2

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

RUSTIC RETREAT Striking Grade II Listed farmhouse and annexe in Hawkhurst DUVALS FARMHOUSE IS a fine Grade II Listed property

dating from the 16th century or earlier and was built at the peak of Cranbrook’s great broadcloth industry for farmer and clothier John Duval. The timber framed farmhouse hosts ample space with lofty ceilings, leaded light casement and mullion windows creating a bright and airy atmosphere. Duvals Farmhouse retains period features including oak beams and timbers, latch doors and several stunning inglenook fireplaces.

Situated over three floors, the house benefits from a large dining room, kitchen/breakfast room with oil fired Aga and drawing room with brick fireplace housing an electric ‘wood-burner’ style

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stove. Upstairs, there are three spacious first floor bedrooms all with fitted wardrobes. The part vaulted attic rooms consist of two bedrooms and family bathroom, while next door is the selfcontained annexe with open plan sitting room and kitchenette, plus a bedroom with en suite shower room.

Surrounding the property are 18 acres of beautiful grounds and gardens landscaped over the years to provide colourful displays throughout the seasons. The terrace at the rear of the house provides a delightful outlook of the grounds. A striking feature is the natural pond and stream, providing lovely focal points and encouraging wildlife visitors.

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

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PROPERTY: Duvals Farmhouse LOCATION: Whites Lane, Hawkhurst GUIDE PRICE: £1,295,000 BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 5 BEST BITS: Situated down a peaceful country lane, Duvals Farmhouse offers a high level of privacy and tranquillity. n n n n n n n n n n n n n

Period features Wood burning stove Utility room Cloakroom Annexe Cellar Detached office Triple garage Natural pond Terrace Cranbrook school catchment area Tranquil location Around 18 acres of land

For full details contact: Jackson-Stops • 01580 720 000 • www.jackson-stops.co.uk

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BEAUTIFUL LISTED HOUSE WITH DETACHED OAST SMARDEN,KENT Smarden 1.5 miles; Headcorn 2.5 miles; Ashford International 11.7 miles + 4 reception rooms + 6 bedrooms + 5 bathrooms + kitchen/ breakfast room + 2 bedroom oast house + outdoor swimming pool + recreational barn + unconverted listed thatched barn+ about 9.3 acres+ 521 sq m (5,612 sq ft)

Savills Cranbrook James Lloyd jlloyd@savills.com

01580 720161

Guide £1 .85 million Freehold

CHARMING LISTED OAST HOUSE BENENDEN,KENT Benenden 1.6 miles; Cranbrook 5.3 miles; Tunbridge Wells 17 miles + 4 reception rooms + kitchen/ breakfast room + master bedroom & en suite + 4 further double bedrooms + 2 bath/ shower rooms + attractive garden & paddock + triple garage + approx 15,000 sq ft outbuilding + about 5 acres+ 350 sq m (3,763 sq ft)

Savills Cranbrook James Lloyd jlloyd@savills.com

01580 720161

Guide £1 .395 million Freehold

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24/03/2016 13:16

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

GOTHIC GRANDEUR A Victorian country house in an wonderful elevated setting in Kilndown BUILT ORIGINALLY AS the vicarage to Kilndown church in 1849 to 1855, Kilndown House is an impressive Victorian Grade II Listed property brimming with gothic revival style, such as its Ashlar sandstone elevations enhanced with climbing roses, hydrangeas and mature wisteria. The house enjoys a raised yet private position with wonderful far reaching views toward the historic village of Goudhurst. Elegant reception rooms lead off the long reception hall, including a beautiful drawing room, formal dining room, southerly facing morning room and study with bespoke cupboards and book shelving. All provide suitable areas for entertaining whilst enjoying views over the grounds.

A principal stone staircase overlooked by a superb leaded light window and featuring a part carved wood and carved stone handrail, leads to the first floor where there are six attractive bedrooms, and three bathrooms, two being en suite.

The gardens and grounds are a delightful feature of the property providing an outstanding setting. Highlights include a heated swimming pool, multiple terraces and an orchard planted with varieties of apple, pear and cherry trees.

To the west of the main house lies a charming listed former coach house and stable courtyard, benefitting from separate access, a garage, two reception rooms, two bedrooms and a private garden.

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PROPERTY: Kilndown House LOCATION: Kilndown GUIDE PRICE: £2,950,000 BEDROOMS: 8 (including coach house) BATHROOMS: 8 (including coach house) BEST BITS: Kilndown House hosts high ceilings with ornate cornicing and ceiling roses, in addition to beautiful mullioned trefoil windows and moulded arched inner doors throughout. n n n n n n n n n n n n n n

Elevated views Historic note Picturesque drive Detached coach house Five reception rooms Laundry room Stone staircase Cellarage Park-like grounds York stone terraces Triple garage Heated swimming pool Orchard Rose Garden

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

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22/03/2016 18:19

Tunbridge Wells

All Saints Road, TN4

£475,000

3 bedroom re-modelled and modernised detached house with 2 bathrooms, gardens and garage.

Energy Efficiency Rating: D

Forge Road, TN4 £299,500

I '

Brand new end terraced home in village setting, in a one-way street just off the High Street. Hallway, downstairs cloakroom, living room, fitted kitchen, landing, 2 double bedrooms, family bathroom, enclosed garden to rear.

Energy Efficiency Rating: B

£295,000

2 bedroom 1st floor apartment with open plan living space and 2 bathrooms.

Energy Efficiency Rating: B

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Richardson Road, TN4

Jackwood Court Guide £215,000-£225,000

Two bedroom end of terrace house in the popular St Johns area with extended living room, kitchen/dining room, upstairs bathroom and gardens to front and rear. The house is set to the end of a pathway tucked away from the main road.

Energy Efficiency Rating: D

Burdett Road, TN4

Guide £220,000

2 bedroom terraced cottage. Living room with open fire, dining room, kitchen, shower room, attic space.

Energy Efficiency Rating: E

Claremont Court, TN2 Guide £160,000 - £170,000

2nd floor apartment with double bedroom, 16'x 10' living dining room and under croft parking.

Energy Efficiency Rating: C

Tunbridge Wells Sales 01892 515 144 Tunbridge Wells Lettings 01892 525 551

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Andrews >

£1,200 Upper Grosvenor Road, TN1 A split level maisonette only 200 yards from the Royal Victoria Place with allocated off road parking space.

Energy Efficiency Rating: E

£975 Victorian mid terrace two bedroom cottage tucked away in the heart of StJohns.

Energy Efficiency Rating: C Richardson Road, TN4

North Farm Road, TN2 £500 Ground floor studio apartment located within 0.1 mile walk of High Brooms train station.

Energy Efficiency Rating: E

£895 Two double bedroom property located near Greggs Wood School with two parking spaces.

Energy Efficiency Rating: E Sherwood Road, TN2

£1,150 Two bedroom top floor apartment set in the favoured area to the west side of Mount Ephraim.

Energy Efficiency Rating: C Bo\:jne Park, TN4

£1,400 A three bedroom house set in a private cul-de-sac in the town centre benefitting from private parking.

Energy Efficiency Rating: D Lansdowne Square, TN1

To view more properties available from all 85 of our offices, visit andrewsonline.co.uk

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS

I REGION ÂŁ1.75 MILLION

A substantial and much improved late Victorian detached property with a wealth of period original features situated a short walk from The Pantiles and mainline station with a large mature garden.

Drawing Room. Sitting Room. Kitchen/ Breakfast Room. Dining Room. Utility Room . Master Bedroom with En Suite Shower Room and Dressing Room.

Guest Bedroom with En Suite Shower Room. 4 further Bedrooms. Family Bathroom . Study. Cellar. Ample Off Road Parking. Grounds in all 0 .3 acres.

EPC E APPLY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS OFFICE

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Battle 01424 775577

Haywards Heath 01444 453181

Pulborough 01798 872081

Tunbridge Wells 01892 512020

London Mayfair Office

battle@batchellermonkhouse corn

hh@batchellermonkhouse com

pulb@batchellermonkhouse corn

twells@batchellermonkhouse corn

mayfa1r@batchellermonkhouse corn

24/03/2016 15:43

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

CREATIVE COUNTRY HOME An attractive 1930s Arts and Crafts style house in Oxted WITH EXCEPTIONAL VIEWS across the Weald, Crabbett Wood is situated in an enviable elevated position on the outskirts of Oxted in Surrey. The property dates back to the 1930s and retains charming period features of the Arts and Crafts style. A wealth of wood panelling and exposed timber beams can be found throughout the receptions rooms and study on the ground floor. The bright and contemporary kitchen is fitted with white units, black granite worktops and electric Aga. Leading off of this room is the conservatory, providing ample space for a dining table and access to the garden. The carved wood panelled staircase leads to a spacious landing, with three double bedrooms, a family shower room and master bedroom. The master suite is generously proportioned with a large stylish en suite bathroom and dressing room. Both the master bedroom and adjacent double bedroom have access to a terrace, which enjoy superb views. Additional accommodation can be found on the second floor, providing a guest bedroom with en suite bathroom and double bedroom.

The formal gardens have been beautifully landscaped offering a variety of established plants, shrubs and trees and areas of paddock. There is a delightful ornamental stream and pond, with a meandering path leading towards the enclosed swimming pool and tennis court.

SO

PROPERTY: Crabbett Wood LOCATION: Itchingwood Common Road, Oxted GUIDE PRICE: £2,750,000 BEDROOMS: 6 BATHROOMS: 5 BEST BITS: Crabbett Wood benefits from a summer house providing an excellent pool room and sauna. n n n n n n n n n n n n n n

Entrance hall Double glazed heritage windows and doors Study Brick fireplaces Conservatory Two cloakrooms First floor terrace Summer house with sauna Outdoor swimming pool Tennis court Vegetable garden Landscaped gardens Stunning views About 12.8 acres of land

For full details contact: Strutt & Parker • 01732 459 900 • www.struttandparker.com

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••Knight ~Frank

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Earls Road, Tunbridge Wells

A large and attractive period townhouse in a prime location Entrance hall, drawing room, family room, dining room, breakfast room, kitchen, cloakroom. Master bedroom with dressing room, 2 further bedrooms, family shower room, family bathroom. On the 2nd Floor - 2 further bedrooms, bedroom 6 I office, further bathroom. Established rear garden. Cellar. EPC rating F.

Langton Green

An attractive and spacious family home occupying a large plot in a prime residential area Entrance hall, sitting room, family room, study, garden room, dining room, kitchen, utility room, cloakroom. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, 4 further bedrooms, family bathroom, shower room, separate WC. Impressive rear garden. Integral garage. EPC rating D. In all about 0.95 acres.

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

HARMONIOUS HABITAT Attractive and spacious detached family home in Langton Green THIS FIVE BEDROOM house is situated along a quiet tree-lined road in the popular village of Langton Green, just west of Tunbridge Wells. The property is set well back from the road offering privacy and providing a large gravel driveway for a number of vehicles.

Inside, the ground floor boasts four reception rooms including a large sitting room, homely family room, drawing room with French doors opening up to the garden and garden room providing tranquil views of the lawn. At the rear of the property is the spacious kitchen featuring units with oak worktops. The garage is built within the property and can be accessed via the utility room, which is situated off from the kitchen.

On the first floor are five bedrooms with fitted wardrobes and family bathroom, additional shower room and separate WC. The principal bedroom has built-in wardrobes and an en suite with a luxurious corner bath and separate shower unit.

Outside, the beautiful garden has an array of colourful trees and plants – in total it extends to just under an acre of land. There is ample space for whatever your needs, whether that’s a tranquil zone to relax in, or an area for children to play.

PROPERTY: 14 Dornden Drive LOCATION: Langton Green GUIDE PRICE: £1,195,000 BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 4 BEST BITS: In spring, a delightful carpet of bluebells appear in the charming wooded dell at the far end of the garden. n n n n n n n n n n n n n

Desirable location Set back from road Large driveway Integral garage Entrance hall Four reception rooms Open fireplace French doors Study Utility room Master bedroom Corner bath Spacious garden

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

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Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk llU: St.l~

lUIES

THE .....TIM ES

Tunbridge Wells - £1,495,000 Substantial and beautifully presented 6 bedroom Edwardian house situated on the popular southern side of Tunbridge Wells with spacious accommodation and many fine period features . EPC: E

Dormans Park- £1,325,000 Delightful 5 bedroom house situated within this exclusive private park with a self-contained one bedroom annexe. The property enjoys outlooks over the garden and grounds, approx. 5.5 acres. EPC:E

Hartfield - £885,000 Situated in an elevated position, off a no-through lane atthe heart of this idyllic Sussex village, this detached former British Legion hall is now a light and spacious 4 bedroom family home with a stunning interior. EPC: D

Crowborough - £995,000 A highly individual 5 bedroom detached family house with a beautifully presented light and spacious interior approached through electric double gates at the end of a short private road . EPC: C

East Grinstead - £895,000 Beautifully designed 4 bedroom contemporary home built to an exacting standard with energy efficiency in mind. The accommodation is set out over one floor creating versatility with well-proportioned rooms. EPC: C

Tunbridge Wells - £695,000 Situated in a sought after road in the popular St. James' area, this deceptively spacious 4 bedroom Victorian house offers superb accommodation, off street parking and an 85ft rear garden. EPC: D

Tunbridge Wells Office

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

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Mayfield - ÂŁ985,000

This 5 bedroom fine, former Vicarage is a substantial family house probably dating from the late Edwardian period around 1910. The property is towards the west side of this highly regarded and sought after village. EPC: F

Tunbridge Wells - ÂŁ1,895,000

A substantial 6/7 bedroom Edwardian family home situated within a quiet cul-de-sac in a prime central location offering both spacious and versatile accommodation throughout with many fine period features and superb mature gardens of just over quarter of an acre. EPC: F

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we open doors for you ...

Barnes Kingsnorth

CENTRAL TONBRIDGE £1,175,000 UNIQUE 18TH CENTURY FAMILY HOUSE in tucked away location just a stroll from the High Street and mainline station. The property has undergone complete transformation in recent years with sympathetic extension and contemporary improvements throughout yet retaining the original character of the stunning period features. 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 4/5 receptions including magnificent drawing room and stylish kitchen opening into a fabulous family I dining room. Mature & private garden, ample parking, garage and self-contained apartment ideal for au-pair, teenager or visiting relative. EPC: C Apply Tonbridge

NORTH TONBRIDGE £950,000 SUBSTANTIAL FAMILY HOME WITH ANNEXE Situated in a favoured road on the Northern side of town with wonderful countryside walks nearby this detached property offers exceptionally generous and versatile accommodation with 5 bedrooms, 2 bathroom, sitting room & dining room both of which open to garden, a kitchen with breakfast area and a further family room/ office. In addition there is a separate ground floor annexe with 1 bedroom, bathroom and kitchen opening into living room. Large front garden with plenty of parking, double garage and wide, secluded rear garden. EPC: C Apply Tonbridge

NORTH TONBRIDGE £575,000 SUPERB LARGE GARDEN at this detached 'chalet style' bungalow. Ticking a ll the boxes with space, potential, convenience and countryside on the doorstep, the property enjoys farmland views opposite, yet is within easy access of the town, local shops and favoured Primary School. Spacious sitting/ dining room with feature fireplace, double aspect and doors to a courtyard terrace, large kitchen/breakfast room, 3 ground floor bedrooms, family bathroom and further bedroom and shower room to the first floor. Lots of scope to adapt or extend and create your ideal h ome (subject to necessary pp). EPC: D Apply Tonbridge

'B) Primel ocatior

Residential

t hightmove,... Sales & Lettings 11,.v."...-...,.,...,..., ..i,,·,.

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Pembury: 01892 822880

Tonbridge: 01732 771616

Lettings: 01732 771616

e.pembury@bkea.ca uk

e.tanbr,d 9 e@bkea.ca uk

e. lettings @bkea co uk

www.bkestateagents.com

24/03/2016 15:45

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lL[J WOOD & PILCHER

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

SOUTHBOROUGH • 124 London Road, Southborough KentTN4 OPL Sales 01892 511311 Lettings: 01892 528888 southborotfh@woodandp~cher.co.uk

HEATHFIELD

TONBRIDGE

CROWBOROUGH

27 High Sfreet, Heathfield East Sussex, TN21 8JR Sales: 01435 862211 Lettings 01435 868899 heathfield@woodandpilcher.co.uk

38 High Street, Tonbridge KentTN91EJ Sales 01732 351135 Lettings 01732 351135 tonbridge@woodandpilcher.co.uk

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

Associated Park Lane London Office

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Cottage Door From £495 Fitted

External front and back doors supplied and fitted from £295 Price includes Door, Glass, Letter Plate, Hinges, Lock & Fitting. Staining and Painting Service Available 1. Security hinges 2. 3 way multi -point locking system 3. Vectis locking system 4. Stormguard trimline 5. Weather bar I rain deflector 6. Optional letter plate

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Freelands Tiles 124-126 London Road, Dunton Green, Sevenoaks Tel: 01732 459 765

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A tn1ly magnificent country residence situated on the outskirts of Lingfield backing onto the Racecourse and surrounding countryside. The property is believed to originate circa 1300 as a hunting lodge with additions in the 1500s and 1800s. This family home has been completely renovated by the current vendors to provide spacious, versatile and beautifully presented accommodation over four floors.

The accommodation comprises utility/store , wine store , large family room, cinema room, study, reception hall , dining room, drawing room, study, cloakroom, kitchen/ breakfast/family room , five bedroom suites all with en.suite bathrooms and three with dressing rooms , two further bedrooms and bathroom.

Outside the property will benefit from electric gates, circular driveway with restored Victorian gardens, detached triple barn style garage and large fonnal gardens to rear.

Asking Price ÂŁ2,400,000

A unique opportunity to acquire an attractive country residence in an idyllic semi-niral setting surrounded by beautiful countryside and within the grounds of Chartham Park Golf Course & Country Club.

The property comprises entrance hall , living/family room, study, dining room, re-fitted kitchen open plan to breakfast room, utility room, cloakroom, five bedrooms and two bathrooms.

The property sits on grounds of approximately 2 .5 acres that include double garage , outbuilding formal lawns, kitchen garden; fruit tree orchard and paddock with barn.

Asking Price ÂŁ1,200,000

T: 01342 324616 E: sales@colesestateagents.com W: colesestateagents.com

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GARDENS

SO

THE HERBACEOUS BORDER AT HAMPTON COURT

RAVELLO, RUSTHALL, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

Glorious Gardens This month, Tim Sykes from Gardenproud is considering something different for the garden…

particular interest to me as we are lucky enough to help maintain this beautiful parkland setting. Unfortunately the stunning herbaceous border along the lower rear terrace is no more, although this painting has already inspired the residents. So watch this space, it could be our next project!

H

ave you ever thought of having your garden painted? Well, for the

well-heeled Victorians of Tunbridge Wells this was a must-have!

So, if you live in or around the area and you’ve got a rather nice watercolour hanging on your wall as

Arthur Rowe had many important paintings, but importantly a story

admirers at the time, including royalty.

about his life and work around

In fact, Queen Mary is known to have

Tunbridge Wells and through

purchased at least 15 of his paintings.

his travels across Europe.

Ernest Arthur Rowe, known as Arthur, was born on August 21 1862 at Forest Lane, Stratford, Essex. He was one of a small group of Victorian artists who

More recently Queen Elizabeth II held an exhibition in 1989 at Sandringham entitled The Royal Gardens of England at which four of Arthur’s paintings were displayed.

Thankfully, the concept of using painting to help record the splendor and beauty of

a memento of your garden, the chances

specialised in painting the great gardens of

gardens has not vanished. I was recently

are it was painted by Ernest Arthur Rowe.

England, Scotland and Ireland. While the

very pleased to see the works of Peter

owners of these gardens strove for

Brown in a gallery in Tunbridge Wells.

perfection in the design, Rowe represented

Peter had developed a captivating and

their vision with his unique employment of

almost surreal way of depicting his

light and shade in his watercolours.

garden landscapes.

I came across Rowe’s work recently by chance and it is seriously good.

One of my church friends moved house and invited me round to help with a planting scheme. I turned up at the house

In 1907, having achieved some success,

to take the brief and noticed the plaque on

he commissioned an architect to design a

For more information about

the wall. ‘Ernest Arthur Rowe 1862-1922,

new home. Arthur moved into the Arts and

Arthur Rowe’s work visit

Garden Artist and lithographer, built this

Crafts inspired house in Rusthall, Tunbridge

www.ernestarthurrowe.com

house and lived here.’

Wells. The house was named after Ravello,

For more information about

one of his favourite places in Italy. Arthur’s

Peter Brown’s work, visit

friend fortunately had some history of the

trips abroad took him to places like

www.storestreetgallery.com

house and a book published in 2009, by the

Switzerland, Spain and Italy. He spent

With great thanks to Derrick Rowe

artist’s grandson, Derrick Rowe.

much time in Italy where he made many

and Peter Brown.

It was enough to gain my interest. My

I got in touch with Derrick straight away

paintings, including of course Ravello,

and bought a copy of the book, titled Ernest Arthur Rowe – The Life and Work of a Victorian Garden Painter.

This is a beautiful hardback book with many large printed copies of Rowe’s

Naples, Amalfi, Sicily, and Lake Como.

His local paintings include commissions

Tim Sykes is a director of Gardenproud, a Tunbridge Wells based company that

at Blackhurst Park, Penshurst Place, Old

helps design, construct and maintain

Place Lindfield and Hever Castle.

gardens situated in the area.

The picture of Blackhurst Park is of

www.reallygardenproud.com

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Large range of machinery on display • Competitively priced - pop in and talk to us • Full support available from our expertly trained service team •

There's so much more

in your local country store...

We're online too: ernestdoeshop.com

Hurst Green The Foundry, Hurst Green, East Sussex THl 9 7QP

t-) ernest100E power

Tel: 01580 860495

I

v-oud

OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE

Traditional or contemporary, large or small, the designers at Gardenproud can help you create a garden you'll be proud of. Our project managers will take you through design, approvals, hard landscaping and planting.

Gardenproud was established in 2007 and is based near Tunbridge Wells. We look after over 100 properties throughout Kent and East Sussex.

LANDSCAPING 8c BUILDING SUPPLIES

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IF YOU ARE PLANNING A NEW GARDEN FOR 2016 THEN CONTACT TIM SYKES ON 07725 173820, OR .JUST GOOGLE GARDENPROUD

APRIL 2016

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GARDENS

SO

Cotinus coggygria ‘Lilla’

Thyme to get herby Kris and Angela from Arthurs restaurant at Coolings tell us how you can add some hints of herbs to your dishes…

I

t’s becoming increasingly popular to

slightly floral edge to the sponge, like a

introduce more herbs, vegetables and

taste of summer. Also, thyme infused into

edible flowers into menus these days. As

the double cream of a crème brulee adds a

bakers here at Arthurs, we are often looking

new dimension. Why not try adding some

for and experimenting with new ways of

fresh raspberries to the brulee for

bringing the outdoors and nature into our

something really special?

cakes, pastries, desserts and tray bakes.

Growing your herbs close to your kitchen

BASIL

will encourage you to use them more often.

Basil grown indoors not only makes your

CHIVES

Using more fresh herbs in your cooking can

kitchen smell lovely in summer, but its oils

Chives are packed with the antioxidants

add flavour, without adding more salt,

are also believed to have anti-

vitamins A and C. They have a light onion

butter or cheese to your dish. Adding a little

inflammatory effects. Why not add a

flavour and can be added to many dishes.

green to your meals not only makes it look

handful of whole basil leaves to your

You can use them in salads, soups,

prettier, but it can give you awesome health

salads to give them an extra zing. Always

coleslaws, sauces and risottos.

benefits too. While dried herbs are

use basil whole, or tear the leaves, to stop

convenient, vitamins and antioxidants are

the leaves from bruising.

lost in the drying process. So buying fresh

If you have a lot of basil, why not try

plants or growing your own has other

making homemade pesto? Pesto tastes

benefits than just looking good.

amazing added to pasta, salads or homemade pizzas.

THYME Thyme is a traditional herb usually used

ROSEMARY

in savoury dishes, but it is now being used

Rosemary is a very versatile herb. It can be

in sweet dishes too. You can use thyme in

used in mashed potatoes, added to your

cakes such as lemon and thyme loaf cake.

roast potatoes and even infused in oils.

The addition of thyme gives you a

Try adding some to your Sunday roast.

www.coolings.co.uk

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p Four Steps to Spring 8 I

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Select a Prepared Pot of Bulbs •

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Earlv Season Favourites

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Fruit Trees/Bushes - Veg Plants Plus all the essential I~redients ~7~7~~7~7

Summer Flowering Bulbs - Alpines Hedging - Heathers - Conifers Roses - Trees - Climbers

p Fu1IRawue~rGart1~DiSS8ndals Tools -Fertilisers -Weed & Pest Controls I Compost - Pots and Containers etc TASTE BUDS a

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where you can enjoy a hot beverage - light lunch afternoon tea and a choice of homemade cakes E'e ~f?

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We are situated on the A265 between Heathfield and Burwash Monday· Saturday 9am-5.30pm, Sunday -10.30am-4.30pm

www.petalsforplants.co.uk

S Burwash Road, Broad Oak, East Sussex TN21 SXG ~

200

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GARDENS

SO

ARE YOU SITTING COMFORTABLY? Sit and watch the world go by with these sweet outdoor suites

MADE.COM

RIVERSIDE OUTDOOR LIVING

Copa outdoor dining chairs, £150 www.made.com

Alexander rose ocean wave outdoor hut, £2,025 www.riversidegardencentre.co.uk

MARKS AND SPENCER Capri chair, £199 www.marksandspencer.com

MIAFLEUR Heart garden chair, £94 www.miafleur.com

indian ocean

Palma chair and footstool, £820 www.indian-ocean.co.uk

INDIAN OCEAN

Palma chair and foostall, £820 www.indian-ocean.co.uk

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