So Tunbridge Wells March 2015 magazine by One Media

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

so THIS MONTH’S DIGITAL SO IS BROUGHT TO YOU IN ASSOCIATION WITH FENWICK

Spring home event 19th march - 12 april 2015

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Fenwick Fashion Brochure / Spring Edit 2015 is available in the

So Tunbridge Wells Magazine April Issue.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

so THIS MONTH’S DIGITAL SO IS BROUGHT TO YOU IN ASSOCIATION WITH FENWICK

Spring home event 19th march - 12 april 2015

Whether you are setting up home for the first time or feel it’s time for a change, the Fenwick Spring Home Event is the perfect opportunity to fill your home with beautiful accessories.

Plus, SAVE up to 50% on selected lines.

The Fenwick Lingerie Event Buy One Bra, Get The Second Half Price

6-22 March Are you wearing the right size bra? If in doubt, make the most of our fitting event.

Fenwick Fashion Brochure / Spring Edit 2015 is available in the

So Tunbridge Wells Magazine April Issue.

SO T W

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CONTENTS

HELLO HERE’S WHAT’S INSIDE YOUR MARCH ISSUE

THE TRAVEL Love is in the air in the magical Maldives

178 THE FOOD

We indulge in pudding perfection at Ashdown Park Hotel

THE CELEBRITY “Hamlet is not something to be completely daunted by”

187

THE FEATURE

THE SCHOOLS

Forget the house – it’s time to spring clean your life!

Make the right choice with our indispensable Education Guide

121

STRICTLY TUNBRIDGE WELLS...

THE HOMES

News – Check mates turn nasty

Why not splash out nearly £4million on an award winning Wealden house?

Views –Seeing red in TW streets

228 THE MOTORS

“The Audi S6 is not cheap, but it is very lovely”

Langton Green artist goes up the wall Calendar – A Fawlty food experience TW newspaper launch makes headlines Why The Pantiles are heaven for buskers MARCH 2015

SO TW_MARCH15_Contents.indd 9

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CHOPARD PROUDLY SUPPORTS PORSCHE MOTORSPORT

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~ . C!Colltn~ & ~o --------路路-------Br Appounmtnt 10 "'' Mqoty The Qo-. Jeoaf:Utr G Coltioo "Sono Limoo.d RoraJ~Wolu

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

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NEWS

Tunbridge Wells

NEWS...

OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT SOME OF THE LOCAL STORIES MAKING THE HEADLINES Facebook page “The smart way to travel around Royal Tonbridge Wells!” However, after locals spotted the error and began commenting on the social media page, the company decided to rectify their mistake by offering the winner a weekly bus pass instead.

TALK OF THE TOWN Residents of Tunbridge Wells will be asked for their opinions on a proposed major revamp of the

CHECK ENEMIES

town centre. A report presented to the borough

A pair of warring chess players will have to start playing nicely, after their seven year

council cabinet last month put forward plans for

dispute was thrown out of Tunbridge Wells County Court. In 2008, Geoffrey Bishop

significant potential changes, including the possible

and Russell Goodfellow travelled together to Gibraltar where they were taking part in

creation of a new square between Civic Way and

a chess tournament. However, when they returned, Mr Bishop asked Mr Goodfellow

Mount Pleasant. The ‘masterplan’ suggests at

for £160 to be repaid to him with interest, which he claims he had lent Mr Goodfellow

least 13 other locations that could benefit from

during the trip. When the case finally came to court, the judge told the sparring players,

improvement, though no funding has been secured

“I do not know if you are both thoroughly decent fellows or both rogues. This isn’t a

yet and it would take some time for any projects

court of morals and the court can’t tell people to be nice to each other.”

to be confirmed. Meanwhile, councillors voted in favour of the report, so a public consultation is due to begin this month.

HIGHWAY HOWLER Locals took to Twitter to express their amusement and disbelief, after a series of signs on the A21 informed drivers about closures in ‘Penbury’ rather than Pembury. The large notices, put in place by the Highways Agency to alert drivers to the roadworks and improvements taking place until 2016,

WELLS WIFI

all sported the typo, which was spotted by

If the Tunbridge Wells MP has his way,

many residents of the town. There were also

thousands of commuters could be better

concerns that those who were unfamiliar with

connected on their journeys to work. After

Mayfield rescue crews were called out for an

the roads could enter the misspelt name into

the Department of Transport’s recent

unusual reason, when a horse became trapped

their satnav systems and become lost.

announcement that £50million would be spent

WATER HORSE in a local pond. The animal, which had got stuck

on installing wi-fi on local networks, including

in the muddy waters on a farm in Five Ashes,

BUS BLUNDER

was unable to be reached by the animal rescue

When local bus company Arriva launched a

Wells be included in the plans. “Southeastern

unit due to the unsafe conditions. So a team of

competition to win a day ticket, it didn’t take

will be deciding which specific routes they will

firefighters wearing dry suits had to use bow

long for eagle-eyed passengers to spot a

be installing wi-fi services on,” he says. “I have

and battery powered saws to clear a path for

spelling gaffe. The giveaway, which tied in

been pressing them on this issue for some time

the horse to walk out of the water. Luckily, the

with the bus company promoting their new

and will continue to do so until I am certain that

animal was unharmed after its ordeal.

low-carbon buses, saw Arriva write on their

we are going to benefit from this.”

Southeastern, Greg Clark demanded Tunbridge

MARCH 2015

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LETTERS

...AND VIEWS

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

clarahiggsprosser. I’m running

TOPICAL TWITTER

for UK charity Wellchild, to help ill children and their families.

Adam Houlton @AdamHoulton

CLARA HIGGS-PROSSER,

n Went to another Salsa class

TUNBRIDGE WELLS Ed: Good luck! What a great challenge

last night, learning to dance! #Salsa #TunbridgeWells Nicola L @nicolaroy n Apologies to the people of Crowborough. I woke you all

UNION OPINION I do hope Dandara, the developers

up by setting off office alarm this morning. Oops. Day

who have bought Union House in

starting well.

the Pantiles, will listen to the public’s

JustJugs @Jodiejugs

views on what the space should be

n So...@SteveBackshall is

used for. I’d hate to see that ugly

bringing is his tour to Tunbridge

One of the things I adore about Tunbridge Wells is the beautiful

building stay one minute longer

Wells! I know where I’ll be on

red brick pavements, so it really disappoints me that the Council

than it needs to – in my opinion the

7th November

don’t feel the same way. Apparently, many are in favour of

eyesore needs to be flattened and

Jessica Sharville

downsizing the red brick areas due to cost, but I think this is

in its place some lovely greenery.

@jessesharville

a real shame. Red bricks may cost more but they last a lot

VALERIE SHAWE,

n Just thought to myself

longer and fit in better with the town’s heritage. Why spend out

PEMBURY

“Gosh Tunbridge wells is busy

replacing the pavements every year when you could invest more

Ed: What would you like to see

for a Thursday night” and then

initially, for a longer and more aesthetically pleasing return?

happen to the space?

realised its ONLY Monday.

SEEING RED

FRAZER HARRIS, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

Marie Jenkins

Ed: But would you rather see the money spent on pavements or

@SimplyJenkins

potholes? That’s the question!

n I am completely unashamed of my love for Taylor Swift.She’s making my journey from Tunbridge Wells into London much better.

visited Chartwell the next day. Thank

Luke Treseder

you for opening my eyes to a great

@The_Fruit_Bowl

man and a great piece of history.

n A scene of devastation on the

SAM PORTER, BY EMAIL Ed: We aim to please! Glad you enjoyed it.

A21 by Tunbridge Wells, as they

HOLA SO! After visiting family in Tunbridge

MARATHON MISSION

Wells last year, I fell in love with SO magazine. The trouble is, I live

Anyone who knows me will know

in Mexico so it’s not easy to come

that I hate running with a passion,

by! In fact, my family now send me

but this year I’ve decided to set

an issue every month so I can keep

I’m just writing to say how much

myself the ultimate challenge and

up to date with all the local goings-

I enjoyed your article on Winston

I’ve signed up to run the London

on. Here I am reading it outside the

Churchill (February). I must admit,

Marathon! The training is pretty

Bosques de las Lomas, located in

I knew very little about him before

gruelling, so think of me when

the Santa Fe area of Mexico City.

reading it but by the end I was

you’re cosied up inside with a glass

XIMENA FERNÁNDEZ CONDE,

fascinated. In fact, I became so

of wine in hand! If anyone is feeling

MEXICO VIA TUNBRIDGE WELLS

engrossed that I spent the rest of

generous, they can sponsor me at

Ed: Where’s the furthest you’ve

the day reading up on his life, then

www.virginmoneygiving.com/

taken SO? Send us your snaps!

WONDERFUL WINSTON

cut down every tree in sight. Minxy Boo @takethataregrea n Had a good hike around Rusthall today my village isn’t that bad...we have good places to see!!! Joanna @jojo_28 n @Waterstones The staff in your Tunbridge Wells branch are also really helpful and friendly, it’s a pleasure to shop there :) Why not tweet us yourself? We’ll print our favourites @SoMagazines

Email jconnolly@onemediauk.co.uk or write to us at SO TW, Longford House, 19 Mount Ephraim Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1EN Please be sure to include your full name and address. Letters may be edited for publication.

MARCH 2015

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01732 353637 www.harwoods. tonbridge.landrover.co.uk Official Fuel Consumption Figures for the New Discovery Sport range in mpg (1/1 OOkm): Urban 38.2 (7 .4) - 40.4 (7 .0), Extra Urban 49.6 (5.7)- 50.4 (5.6), Combined 44.8 (6.3)- 46.3 (6. 1). C02 emissions 166- 162 g/km. The fig ures provided are as a r<>Sult of official manufacturer's tests in accordance with EU legislation. A vehicle's actual fuel consumption may differ from that achieved in such tests and these figures are for comparative purposes only. Representative 6.9% APR available on new land Rover Discovery Sport models registered between 01st January and 31st March 2015 at participating retailars only. With Land Rover Freedom Personal Contract Purchase you have the option at the end of the agreement to: (1) Subject to the vehicle being in good condition, retllrn the vehicle and not pay the Final Payment (if the vehicle is in good condition and has not exceeded the allowed mileage you will have nothing further to pay. If the vehicle has exceeded the allowed mileage a ~harge for excess mileage will apply - in this example 14p per mile for any excess mileage up to 4,999 miles and 28p per mile for any excess mileage exceeding 4.999 miles) (2) pay the Final Payment to own the vehicle or (3) part exchange the vehicle subject to settlement of your existing finance agreement; new finance agreements are subject to status. Rer,resentative example is based upon an annual mileage of 1_0,000 miles. Finance is subject to status and only available to applicants aged 18 and over resident in Mainland UK and N. Ire and. Thi,finance offer is aveilable from Black Ho!' se Umited tteding as land Rover Financ;.lal Serviees, St Wllllam House, Tresiflian Tetreee, Cardiff CF10 SBH.

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81)

LAND ROVER LAUNCHES NEW DISCOVERY SPORT

ABOVE & BEYOND Land Rover has revealed the new Discovery Sport, the world's most versatile and capable premium compact SUV. The first member of the new Discovery family, Discovery Sport features 5+2 seating in a footprint no larger than existing 5-seat premium SUVs. Discovery Sport's progressive new design approach defines the new Discovery family with optimised volume, proportions and stance. Its design leadership combines with engineering integrity to result in a dynamic profile, the ultimate use of interior space and 5+2 seating configurability. "Our challenge has been to combine premium design with exceptional versatility; the two attributes must work in harmony," says Gerry McGovern, land Rover Design Director and Chief Creative Officer. "I'm proud to say we've achieved that; Discovery Sport's dynamic design will resonate on an emotional level with consumers, and this vehicle is more versatile than any other premium compact SUV on the market." This spirit of adventure is reflected in Discovery Sport's interior, which has been designed with customers at its core. it features high-quality materials and a strong vertical centre console graphic to reflect the premium design of the exterior, while the core Discovery value of versatility is ev1dent everywhere. Storage solutions are integrated Into the cabin and up to four 12V power points and six USB charging sockets can be specified for all three rows of seating, allowing multiple electronic devices to be charged simultaneously. A host of innovations have allowed Discovery Sport to introduce the versatility of 5+2 seating Into the premium compact SUV class for the first time. An all-new multi-link rear axle not only provides engaging driving dynamics but it also provides ample and flexible cabin space behind the second row.

Coupled with supple long-travel suspension, the Innovative rear axle also ensures the Discovery Sport is comfortable, refined and rewarding to drive on-road, while retaining the breadth of all-terrain capability for which Land Rover IS world-renowned. In fact, with approach, departure and breakover angles of 25, 31

"Our challenge has been to combine premium design with exceptional versatility; the two attributes must work in harmony," Gerry McGovern, Land Rover Design Director and Chief Creative Officer. and 21 degrees respectively, Terrain ResponseÂŽ technology, and the ability to wade to 600mm, Discovery Sport offers class-leading capability in all conditions. As with every new Land Rover, safety has been a key priority in the development of the new Discovery Sport, resulting in a first-in-class pedestrian airbag, autonomous emergency braking, and a state-of-the-art bodyshell featuring both ultra-high-strength steel and lightweight aluminium. This represents a fraction ofthe advanced equipment available in Discovery Sport, which also includes Head-Up Display, an all-new 8-inch touch screen infotainment system, and tilt-and-slide row-two seating for maximum interior configurability. At launch the Discovery Sport will be equipped with a range of

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four-cylinder turbocharged petrol and diesel engines. Both the all-alloy Si4 2.0-litre petrol engine and the 2.2-litre turbodiesel feature stop-start technology, highpressure direct injection, low-friction internal components and smart regenerative charging for outstanding performance and economy.

later in 2015, a highly efficient ED4 turbodiesel engine will join the range with C02 emissions of just 119g/kmâ&#x20AC;˘. Both 9-speed automatic and 6-speed manual transmissions are available, along with a choice of two or four-wheel-drive. "Not only does Discovery Sport mark the introduction of the first new member of our expanding Discovery family, lt also brings the versatility of 5+2 seating to the compact premium SUV market,'' says Phi I Popham, Jaguar Land Rover Group Marketing Director. "Discovery Sport's versatility is a key differentiator. ltls quite simply the most accomplished vehicle in its segment." Discovery Sport will be produced at Land Rover's award-winning manufacturing facility at Halewood, Liverpool. it goes on sale in early 2015 alongside the existing seven-seat Land Rover Discovery in over 170 markets worldwide.

Call Harwoods today or visit www.harwoods.uk.com for more information .

18/02/2015 16:52

INTERVIEW

“WHEN MY CHILDREN WERE LITTLE I BEGAN PAINTING THEIR WALLS AND NURSERIES AND IT’S GROWN GRADUALLY FROM THERE”

building up a portfolio. Then, as word got out about her work, she began taking bookings from other people looking for a different décor. “Sometimes people want a mural because they can’t find wallpaper they love,” Louise says. “The brilliant thing about them is there are fewer limitations – it can go over the ceiling or around the banister. It’s opening people’s minds and introducing them to the concept,

ART AMBITION

because not many people think ‘oh my gosh, I need a mural in my life’.”

When artist Louise Dean from Langton Green began painting pictures on walls, little did she know her mural art would spark the start of an exciting career…

Although her confidence has grown as her business, The Creative Decorator, has evolved, Louise admits she does still worry every time she’s booked for a job. “The first stage is really quick; I’ll draw something on the wall, usually in chalk and I’m

ALTHOUGH SHE’S BEEN settled in Kent

the travel industry before meeting her husband

really confident at that stage,” she says.

for years, Louise, 46, had a far from local

and moving to Langton Green 14 years ago,

“Then I put the paint on and every single thing

upbringing. Having started life on RAF bases

where she set about embracing family life.

needs three coats, so by that stage I start to

due to her father’s occupation as a Squadron

She trained as a swimming teacher and put

worry about whether they’re going to like it. I

Leader, when she was nine her parents

all creative visions to the back of her mind

go through an emotional journey, but so far so

decided they wanted an adventure, so they

while she raised her two children, Naomi, 12

good – I haven’t had to paint over anything!”

packed up their life and sailed to the Caribbean.

and Eddie, 10. It was only when she got her

“We were going to live on the Virgin Islands

paintbrushes out to decorate their rooms that

where she is now, but she says she’s happy

she started to see a business idea forming.

with the way things have panned out.

for a year,” explains Louise. “But we ended up

It may have taken her a long time to get to

“When my children were little I began

“With my last business I did it all by the book,

I was so lucky that my parents were

painting their walls and nurseries and it’s

but this time it’s grown organically and I think I’ll

adventurous!”

grown gradually from there,” she says. “I did a

be more successful,” she admits. “When I was

lot of things for friends who had children, so I

younger I used to think ‘why haven’t I

art was her real passion, so, after a few years

was painting animals on walls and things for

succeeded with my artwork?’ but I feel that at

of working in ski resorts in her late teens and

them and I began to realise my absolute

this time in my life it’s finally right. You always

early 20s, Louise returned to the UK and

passion is painting on walls.”

think it should happen in your 20s, but I probably

living there for seven years and it was amazing.

Despite her love of travel, she always knew

decided to set up her own craft business. However, it wasn’t to be, so she returned to

Over the next few years, Louise began painting murals for friends and family and

feel more ambitious now than I did then!” www.thecreativedecorator.co.uk

MARCH 2015

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18/02/2015 16:53

EVENTS

MARCH

CALENDAR 4TH MOUNTAIN MOVIE Now in its sixth edition, the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour comes to the Assembly Halls in Tunbridge Wells to showcase a diverse collection of the best and latest films from the global mountain sports community. Outdoor sport lovers will enjoy this exhilarating event, introducing the most talented adventure film makers around. Adrenaline junkies can meet other adventurers and there will be prizes to be won during the evening. The festival begins at 7pm and tickets cost from £11.

DAVID BARTHOLEMEW

www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

4TH HIGH FASHION

6TH TRIBUTE ACT

7TH FAWLTY FOOD

Spend a stylish afternoon socialising and spotting

Experience an evening of hit songs

For a dining experience like no other,

the latest trends at High Rocks’ Rock the Runway

and magnificent moves when A Night

head to the Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge

event in Tunbridge Wells. Between 11am and

of Dirty Dancing comes to the Assembly

Wells for their Dinner is Served evening.

3.30pm, you’ll enjoy a three-course lunch with

Halls in Tunbridge Wells. Billed as ‘the

The Fawlty Towers themed night will see

wine, then sit back and watch as a selection of the

ultimate tribute show’, the production features

madness, mishaps and mischief ensue when

town’s best loved boutiques showcase their SS15

all the biggest songs from the classic 80s

Sybil the hamster goes missing, leading to

collections. A raffle will be held to raise money for

film, including Hungry Eyes, She’s Like

a string of comedic calamities. For £39,

the event’s chosen charity, the Pickering Cancer

the Wind and the Oscar-winning (I’ve Had)

enjoy a three-course meal while comedy

Drop-In Centre, and there will be stalls selling

The Time of My Life, presented by a

actors entertain you and you’ll become part

clothes, jewellery and accessories too. Tickets cost

glamorous cast. The show begins at

of the Fawlty experience. The event begins

£65 per person and are bookable by searching

7.30pm and tickets cost from £19.50.

at 7.30pm. For more information, or to book

‘Rock the Runway’ at www.bookitbee.com

www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

visit www.trinitytheatre.net MARCH 2015

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EVENTS

8TH MAKING WAVES Raise money for charity and help to break a world record by taking part in Swimarathon 2015. Over 30 countries and 6,000 swimmers compete in the global event, which raises funds for End Polio Now. Teams of between four and six swimmers are invited to make a splash by competing in a water relay at Tenterden Leisure Centre, with each team having 30 minutes to complete as many

NT/ ARNHEL DE SERRA

lengths as possible. If you’re interested in taking part, visit www.tenterdenrotary.co.uk for more information.

7TH SPRING SONG

13TH BIJOU BUYS

15TH MOTE MAKERS

For the past 75 years the Royal Tunbridge

Instead of spring cleaning your house, fill it

Make this Mother’s Day one to remember

Wells Orpheus Male Voice Choir has been

with unique finds instead, by visiting

by heading to Ightham Mote for their

providing top class choral entertainment and

Continental Flea in Tenterden. The market,

‘Make Mum’s Day’ event. Enjoy a stroll

they’re set to continue when they hold a

filled with vintage European homeware and

around the grounds before visiting the

spring concert in Wadhurst. The choir, which

fashions, takes place from 10.30am to 2.30pm

Mote Café for a meal. Everybody knows

comprises more than 50 male vocalists, will

in the Assembly Room at Tenterden Town

homemade presents are the best, so

perform a range of music, from hymns to

Hall. Emerging fashion talent Lily Collette will

children can take part in a making session

modern pop songs. The performance, which

be showcasing her new clothing collection on

in the Squire’s Room, where they’ll create

is being held in the St Peter and St Paul

the day, with all items made from vintage

a brooch to give as a gift. The sessions are

Church, begins at 7.30pm and tickets cost

fabrics. Entry is free. For more information,

free, but normal entry prices apply. To find

£10 in advance or £12 on the door. To book,

visit www.cherishthevintage.co.uk or call

out more, call 01732 810 378 or visit

call 01892 785 658.

Julia on 07885 610 912.

www.nationaltrust.org/ightham-mote

MARCH 2015

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EVENTS

21ST PROTECT PENSHURST Defend Penshurst Place from an impending invasion at their Great Armada weekend on Saturday March 21 and Sunday March 22. Join costumed actors to help fortify the walls and protect the historic house by warding off the Spanish troops. From 11am to 4pm each day children can join in with the activities as well as spending the day in the house and grounds. Normal admission prices apply. For more information visit www.penshurstplace.com

21ST KEY MUSIC

29TH PADDOCK RUN

29TH WONDERFUL WEDDINGS

For a weekend of music, food and

Voted as one of the best runs in the

If you’re in the process of planning your

fun, get yourself along to Springfest

UK, the Paddock Wood half marathon

big day then you’ll find everything you

at the Cross Keys pub in St John’s Road,

returns in 2015 for its 26th year.

need to organise the perfect wedding at

Tunbridge Wells on Saturday March 21

The 13.1-mile race sees over 2,000

Chiddingstone Castle’s wedding fair.

and Sunday March 22.From 3pm each

participants running through the Kentish

Meet specialist wedding suppliers, enjoy

day a number of local bands and talent

countryside, with every competitor receiving

live entertainment and sample delicious

from the Acoustic Reverb Collective

a goody bag at the finish line. Entry costs

treats. From 11am to 4pm the grounds will be

will be taking to the stage and

from £20 and the run begins at 9.30am.

filled with some of the best in the wedding

entertaining the crowds. The event,

This year, fundraising will be for Kent,

business. There is no charge for entry to the fair

which is raising money for the

Sussex and Surrey Air Ambulance.

and free parking is available. To find out more,

Kezi Silverstone Trust, To find out more,

For more information visit

visit www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk/weddings

visit www.crosskeystw.co.uk

www.paddockwoodhalfmarathon.co.uk

or call 01892 872 744. MARCH 2015

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SO ~

BROKI 11 11 1

Events 2015 At Broke Hill Golf Club

SATURDAY14 FEBRUARY

SUNDAY 15 '' MARCH

VALENTINE'S NIGHT WITH BUBLE

MOTHER'S DAY LUNCH

Avoid the restaurant rush and enjoy an evening with your loved one and friends. Enjoy a superb 2 course meal with entertainment by Georg Tormann who will be singing songs by Michael Buble. £25.00 Per Person

Dining with speaacular golf course views and a four course meal. E-mail sales@brokehlll.co.uk or call 01959 533225 (option 2) to make your booking.

The Swellegant & Elegant jack Valentine is here! A charismatic performer performing Frank Sinatra & The Rat Pack. Food Included. Members £15.00 Non Members £18.00

Make Easter Sunday a day to remember for all the family. )Oin us for a deliCIOus three course SUnday Lunch. InclUding coffee. Children's menu IS avallatlle with a FREE easw egg for every Cllild. E·mall soles@brokehill.co.uk or call 01959 533225 (option 2) to make your bOoking.

Enjoy a relaxed Mother's Day

01959 533225 (optton 2)

sales@brokehlll eo uk

MARCH 2015

p24 SO TW_MARCH_Ads.indd 2

19/02/2015 11:45

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MARCH

THIS MONTH

YOU SHOULD PACK... So, how did you do on Valentine’s Day? If you have a little making up to do, here’s a gift that will earn a lifetime of Brownie points. Whisk your sweetheart to 10 of the world’s most romantic destinations, comprising Venice, Paris, Santorini, The Maldives, Florence, Hawaii, Rome, Saint Lucia, Koh Samui in Thailand and St Moritz in Switzerland – all on business class flights, of course. During the month-long trip, you’ll stay in luxury hotels, where you’ll be welcomed by love songs, petal-filled baths and scented candles; you’ll also enjoy a candlelit dinner at each destination’s finest restaurant. All this indulgence will set you back £68,500 per couple, with £1,000 per trip being donated to The Prince’s Trust – but what price love? www.veryfirstto.com

WATCH...

LISTEN...

READ...

British Oscar nominee Benedict Cumberbatch

Since quitting Oasis in 2009 after numerous

Kazuo Ishiguro, author of the Booker Prize winning

stars as unsung war hero Alan Turing in the

disagreements with his brother Liam, Noel

The Remains of the Day, returns with his first new

acclaimed film, The Imitation Game. The

Gallagher appears to have not looked back. With

novel in a decade. Set in a declining Britain long after the departure of the Romans, The Buried Giant follows

movie itself was nominated for eight Academy

his new band, High Flying Birds – which he

Awards, in recognition of its gripping plot based

describes as “not anyone in particular... a loose

the progress of Axl and Beatrice as they set off across

on a true story. During the Second World War,

collective kind of thing” – he has scored a number

a troubled land to find their lost son. While they expect

mathematician Turing and his colleagues at

one album and six top five hits on the UK indie

many hazards, they cannot foresee the dark corners

Bletchley Park worked tirelessly to break the

chart. The band’s much-anticipated second album,

of their own love that will be illuminated by the journey.

German Enigma code, with the aim of gaining

Chasing Yesterday, is due for release on March 2

Exploring love, loss and war, this is an incredible new

crucial intelligence about German movements.

and fans will be looking forward to hearing what’s

story from the author hailed as ‘an original and

The film is released on DVD on March 9 and is

new from this modern music icon. Available at

remarkable genius’. Available at

available at www.amazon.co.uk for £10.

www.play.com priced from £10.99.

www.waterstones.com for £16 from March 3.

MARCH 2015

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THIS MONTH YOU SHOULD

BOOK... If you’re already making plans for the summer, here’s a diary date not to be missed. Platinum selling pop star Paloma Faith will be coming to Bedgebury Forest and Pinetum at Goudhurst on Saturday June 20, to perform her hit songs in this spectacular setting. The latest act to play the Forestry Commission’s acclaimed Forest Live tour, Paloma will be visiting

PRINT...

seven beautiful woodland locations across the country, singing songs from

Those of us who are already baffled by 3D printers will be even

her back catalogue and her third hit album, A Perfect Contradiction.

more bemused by the Foodini – yes, it’s a 3D food printer.

So, book your tickets and start planning the picnic...

Currently at prototype stage, the machine takes fresh, cooked

Tickets cost £38.50 and are available

ingredients and ‘prints’ them into the desired shape on the

from 0300 068 0400 and www.forestry.gov.uk/music

plate. The manufacturer, Natural Machines, says the device will take away the more time-consuming elements of home cooking – such as shaping burgers. The company has launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund a full production run and is halfway to its $100,000 target. Those who contribute $999 (£665) can reserve a Foodini, saving around 25% on the expected retail price. www.naturalmachines.com

LEARN... Our Education Guide profiles the very best local schools, but if you’d like to send your child further afield, you might consider Institut Le Rosey on Lake Geneva, Switzerland. Believed to be the most expensive boarding school in the world, the establishment charges around £80,000 per year, but the fee buys students extraordinary privilege. Pupils have the use of a 40ft yacht on the lake and a luxurious spa; school facilities also include a 1,000-seater concert theatre, a shooting range and an equestrian arena. Former students include Prince Edward and King Juan Carlos I of Spain, so your youngsters will be in royally good company. www.rosey.ch

BID... After you’ve watched The Imitation Game, you might feel inspired to find out more about the incredible mind that helped to end the war. Well, you can get an insight into Alan Turing’s world when his notebook dating from 1942 goes on sale at Bonhams New York next month. Containing notes on his early experiments into computer science, the book features Turing’s thoughts as well as his calculations. He willed the document to his close friend Robin Gandy, who later used the book as a dream diary. The auction takes place on April 15 but you’ll need to start saving now – the lot is expected to fetch

NPL / SCIENCE MUSEUM

$1million (£660,000). www.bonhams.com

MARCH 2015

SO TW_MARCH15_TMYS.indd 3

19/02/2015 11:57

DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND

10 WEEK COURSES START WEEK COMMENCING 16TH MARCH SIGN UP NOW

Untitled-4 2

19/02/2015 14:22

RANT

TALKING RUBBISH

Here’s where we give readers the chance to vent their opinions on a contentious local issue. This month, ‘Grumbler’ from Tunbridge Wells returns to express their anger at the litter louts

ur nation’s capacity to dump its detritus

that doesn’t seem to extend to picking up litter, let

widespread use of head-cameras (the sort cyclists

absolutely anywhere is litter-ally foul.

alone not dropping it. And as for unscooped dog

attach to their helmets), but some worthies might

You can’t go out (along a motorway even)

poo...

adopt them. After all, car dash-cams are

The remedy? I suggest children learn from

without seeing cast-off packaging, crisp packets,

increasingly popular – a Russian one went viral over

fish and chip boxes, beer cans and soft drink

parents and teachers that their homeland and its

that meteor strike – and could provide crucial

bottles – what’s the matter with people? Is there

future are theirs to protect, and that litter is a selfish

evidence. Concealed cameras already help local

no civic pride, no national sense of neatness?

indulgence that undermines personal worth; that

authorities detect and prosecute fly-tippers, who

Even rubbish bins have stuff festering beside them.

littering is lazy and places private convenience

are sometimes fool enough to be incriminated by

above the simple pleasures that enrich our

discarded names and addresses in their litter.

Smokers get a bad name for wantonly discarded cigarette packets, while non-degradable butts can

everyday lives – the undefiled street, the green

be seen anywhere inhalers congregate to indulge

countryside, the elegant road verge.

And talking of local authorities, are ours doing what they should to recycle our offloads? As directed by

We should increase social awareness with a

them, conscientious residents sort their refuse into

much better, the sticky residue clinging to the soles

National Litter Day – as do countries like Australia

separate containers (a variable recommendation) but

of the passing. And as for that mile-long fly tip at

– picking up and disposing of litter, in the hope this

it’s rumoured that back at the depot everything may

Cory’s Wharf in Essex... A million pounds it may

will become a conditioned reflex. To make every

be aggregated, making a farce of the householder’s

cost to clear up, and guess who pays? Nationally,

day a personal Litter Day is perhaps a dream too

efforts – or is that an urban myth?

we spend £1billion a year trying to Keep Britain Tidy.

far, but it’s no hardship to have a plastic bag handy

their health-hating habit. Gum-chewers are not

Perhaps it should be carrot, not stick: a deposit on

to collect litter as one strides out and about. I do,

bar-coded containers of all sorts, then a refund for

establishment’, an act of personal rebellion against

and it transforms my favourite Area of Outstanding

returning them, as with glass bottles in my childhood.

faceless Orwellian authoritarianism? Surely not

Natural Beauty.

That would be a nice little earner and for companies

Why do people drop litter? Is it to rubbish ‘the

A few well-publicised penalties, perhaps with a

too, as Belgian and German shops have found with

closer to that tolerant Cameronian ‘Big Society’,

photo to name and shame, might discourage the

their dedicated machines. And what do Scouts and

whose volunteers’ unpaid time is invaluable but

‘litterati’, many of whom seem unaware of, or

Guides get up to these days? How about a bob-a-

worth billions (1.5% of the GDP); Beveridge would

oblivious to, the impact of their actions (though a

bottle – that’s only 5p – instead of bob-a-job?

be proud. Most folk enjoy an endorphin delight, a

day of community service picking up other people’s

serotonin surge, from random acts of kindness, but

rubbish would soon fix that). I don’t advocate the

– we’re 30 years on from 1984 and progressively

Once that’s all sorted, there’s flotsam and jetsam to be tackled... Then the five oceanic gyres.

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

MARCH 2015

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CELEBRITY

MARCH 2015

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19/02/2015 13:01

INTERNATIONAL MAN OF MYSTERY

CELEBRITY

The British love him, the Americans love him, he’s brought a classic literary character to life with barely a hitch – it seems that Benedict Cumberbatch can do no wrong. A huge star on both the big and small screens, this charming Englishman truly is the Man of the Moment. But who is Benedict and can he really be that cool?

t the time of going to press, we don’t know whether Benedict Cumberbatch will have won the Best Actor Oscar for his

performance as Alan Turing in The Imitation Game. But regardless of whether or not he is victorious, this enigmatic actor’s journey to the top has been a rapid and convincing one. When he made his television debut with a guest part in undemanding 60s drama Heartbeat just 15 years ago, neither he nor the viewers could have had any idea that he would be the toast of the glittering Academy Awards ceremony in 2015. “Fame is a weird one. You need

to distance yourself from it. People see a value in you that you don’t see yourself.” Now, with an Oscar nomination (at the very least), a number of confirmed film hits and a safe-as-houses TV role under his belt – the chances of the BBC axing the BAFTA and Emmy award winning Sherlock are pretty much zero – Cumberbatch, 38, has the world at his feet. His crown almost slipped recently when, during a debate on US television about equality in acting, he argued in favour of employing more black actors but used the outdated term ‘coloured’, much to the disgust of many viewers. However, he immediately issued an apology, describing himself as “an idiot” and “devastated to have caused offence.” His evident remorse helped him to weather the social media storm

MARCH 2015

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E D U C AT I O N G U I D E

SCHOOL’S IN FOR STAMPEDE! STOCKING OVER 30 DIFFERENT BRANDS OF STYLISH FOOTWEAR, STAMPEDE! TUNBRIDGE WELLS HAS BECOME A GO-TO OPTION FOR SPECIALIST CHILDREN’S SHOE-FITTING. WE FIND OUT HOW THIS BOOMING BUSINESS GOT STARTED AND WHY IT’S PUTTING A SPRING IN KIDS’ STEPS ALL AROUND THE TOWN

ounded in 2005 by mother of three, Andrea

shoe-fitters, who are able to offer a whole new

Stampede!

Afrifa, Stampede! Fashion and Footwear for

mezzanine floor of fitted school shoes from

6b Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2PT

Kids has gone from strength to strength. After

brands such as Start-rite, Geox, Ricosta, Petasil

Open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 6pm

and Hush Puppies.

01892 511 651

winning the accolade of ‘Best Independent Kids

Andrea says she has dreamed of being in the town

www.stampedeshoes.co.uk

decided to take the plunge and move the business to

centre for years and is excited about enjoying passing

info@stampedeshoes.co.uk

Tunbridge Wells.

trade for the first time. She is confident that her

Footwear Retailer’ in the UK last year, Andrea

“We had a big unit in St John’s, but were becoming

database of over 5,000 regular customers will follow her,

more and more popular with customers travelling

and when asked, “Why should shoppers choose

from all over the South East and floor space was

Stampede! over the other nearby high street retailers?”,

becoming an issue, particularly on Saturdays.”

she laughs and quickly responds, “It’s easy – our shoes

The new bigger shop offers a range of children’s

and clothes speak for themselves and, moreover, I invest

shoes and clothes from birth to 15 years and deals in

most of my time training the team to ensure customers

most on-trend children’s brands such as Converse,

get a way above average service and come away smiling

Vans, Dr Martens, Skechers, Kickers and Geox, as

every time. Shopping at Stampede! should always be a

well as offering a full shoe-fitting service. Andrea is

pleasure, plus our loyalty scheme keeps customers

proud of her growing team of 11 qualified

coming back time and time again as well.”

ool shoes h c s d e t it nally f Professio to sizes up lf a h d n tings a 4 width fit 0/EUR 45 size UK 1 rucksacks , s k c o s , plimsoles Trainers, in nery now and statio

Stampede, 6b Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells TN1 2PT Tel: 01892 511 651

www.stampedeshoes.co.uk

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CELEBRITY

and to emerge looking even more humble and charming than before. Add the fact that he’s now expecting a baby with his new wife, theatre director Sophie Hunter, and you could say that Cumberbatch’s personal world is looking pretty fine too. “I’ve been broody since I was 12, but I can’t just get anyone pregnant. It has got to be the right person.” It could be argued that the future Sherlock Holmes didn’t have the hardest start in life – he was born into a London family that already boasted decorated submarine officers and consuls to Queen Victoria among its ancestors. Cumberbatch grew up in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, though from the age of eight he attended boarding schools

make sure the school bills were paid”

revival of the playwright’s work After the

Benedict Cumberbatch with

and spent some years in the Weald

– but it seems that even this privileged

Dance at the Royal National Theatre.

The Imitation Game co-stars

– he was sent to Brambletye School,

upbringing did not make the young

near East Grinstead, which currently

Cumberbatch entirely happy.

charges over £7,000 per term and

“Having your adolescence

After a gap year in which he volunteered as an English teacher at a Tibetan monastery in India, he

proudly claims Cumberbatch among

at an all-male boarding

began his studies at the London

its alumni.

school is just c**p.”

Academy of Music and Dramatic Art,

Next came Harrow School

He made it through his school

leaving with an MA in classical acting. “I love theatre, and you learn

(currently charging £35,000 per year)

days, however, already having

where he was an arts scholar. He

developed a love of performing arts.

too much as an actor and enjoy

says that his parents, actors Timothy

At the age of just 12, the teacher

too much of it not to want

Carlton and Wanda Ventham, had to

who directed him in a production of

to go back a lot.”

work very hard to provide such a

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

high standard of education – “Mum

described young Cumberbatch as the

did not have to earn his stripes in

did a lot of commercial theatre and

best schoolboy actor he had ever

theatre before getting a chance in

farces in the 1980s and 90s to

worked with. While at Harrow he

Unlike many actors, Cumberbatch

television. His stage and screen

was a member of the

careers have developed almost in

school’s dramatic arts

tandem with each other – even as he

club, The Rattigan

was landing major roles at some of

Society, named after

London’s most prestigious theatres,

former student Terence

he was appearing as Freddy in the

Rattigan – Cumberbatch

controversial BBC adaptation Tipping

would later star in a

Allen Leech and Keira Knightley

the Velvet in 2002. In 2005 he was nominated for an Olivier Award for his portrayal of George Tesman in Hedda Gabler and his theatre run

Left: Cumberbatch married

continues apace, alongside his

Sophie Hunter on Valentine’s Day

television and film successes. When it was announced that he would be playing Hamlet at the Barbican Theatre later this year, the tickets sold out in minutes, making it the fastest selling show in London theatre history. Despite these tremendous expectations, he is philosophical about the weight of the coveted role. “There’s a huge raft of roles that actors in our culture perform and you can see any one of about

Hawking

MARCH 2015

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CELEBRITY

three Hamlets in a year. It’s not something to be completely daunted by.” One of his most striking theatrical roles was in a dual part, shared with Jonny Lee Miller, in Frankenstein at the Royal National Theatre in 2011. The two actors swapped roles each night, one portraying the tortured doctor and the other his confused creation – the play was broadcast to cinemas all over the country as part of the NT Live programme, giving cinemagoers the chance to enjoy two household names without venturing into the West End. An early foray into television, playing Hugh Laurie’s son in the short-lived comedy-drama Fortysomething, led to a high profile and potentially hazardous role, as Dr Stephen Hawking in the 2004 TV

has portrayed troubled artist Vincent

behind Doctor Who – Sherlock was

drama, Hawking. The gamble paid

Van Gogh on television and when

an immediate hit. Alongside The

off, however, and he was BAFTA

Matt Smith announced he was

Office’s Martin Freeman as Dr

nominated for the role, as well as

leaving Doctor Who in 2013,

Watson, Cumberbatch became a

winning a Golden Nymph for Best

Cumberbatch was among the

hero to legions of viewers, bringing

Actor. Coincidentally, one of his rivals

bookies’ favourites for the part,

the unfathomable genius of the

for the Best Actor Oscar this year

although he has since declared he

original Holmes to contemporary

was fellow Brit Eddie Redmayne, for

will never appear in the hit sci-fi

London in real style. The character’s

his portrayal of Hawking in

show. But his next choice of role

‘death’ at the end of series two got

The Theory of Everything.

was still a surprising one for some,

the nation talking and the third series

until you considered his acting

became the most watched on UK

credentials.

television since 2001. Despite his

“Landing the role of Stephen Hawking was the most positively surprising thing that has happened to me.” Major film roles followed, with

“I realised quite early on that,

Cumberbatch clearly values the

career speciality of it, I was

opportunity Sherlock has given him.

Cumberbatch seemingly being in

playing slightly asexual,

demand for practically every notable

sociopathic intellectuals.”

British film; these included Atonement,

upwardly spiralling film career,

although I wasn’t trying to make a

Five years ago, 221b Baker Street

“I’ll always do Sherlock - it’s something I’m not going to give up on.” Will Sherlock always want him,

The Other Boleyn Girl, Tinker Tailor

was a crowded place to be. Guy

Soldier Spy and War Horse.

Ritchie had just released a hugely

however? If the reaction of the

successful movie rehash of Sherlock

fans and critics is anything by

spy, because it is the ultimate

Holmes, while American TV was

which to judge, that’s elementary,

Cumberbatch and co-star

acting exercise. You are never

starting work on a new series called

dear Watson.

Martin Freeman in Sherlock

what you seem.”

Elementary, which would feature

“I’ve always wanted to play a

It’s not just the classic upper class

Cumberbatch’s Frankenstein co-star,

Brits that he’s in demand for though,

Jonny Lee Miller, as a contemporary

having starred in the Hollywood

version of Conan Doyle’s great

blockbuster Star Trek: Into Darkness

detective. Yet the BBC felt there was

and provided the voice for Smaug

still new life to be found in one of

the Dragon and the Necromancer in

literature’s most popular characters

The Hobbit film series. However, it is

and they didn’t have to look far to find

a certain literary detective who has

a man who perfectly encapsulated

provided Cumberbatch with his

Holmes’ indefinable allure.

best-loved character and, perhaps,

“The world of Sherlock Holmes

his most enduring association in the

and the world that we live in now

minds of fans...

is big enough to take more than

Cumberbatch is renowned for his ability to capture the essence of eccentric, enigmatic characters – he

one interpretation.” Created by Mark Gatiss and Steven Moffat – interestingly, the producer

MARCH 2015

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"Pampetlicious " idea fot mothet 's ::bay With Real Salon and Spa & Thackeray's Two well-known, respected businesses in Tunbridge Wells have j oinedforces to offer the Ultimate Pamper Experience Voucher for busy Mums, or indeed anybody who deserves to be treated or those who simpZy wish to treat themselves to an afternoon of luxury.

Fine 11'rench dining restaurant, Thackeray 路~~ and the award winning Real Salon and Spa) are offering readers a set lunch and spa experience for the amazing price of拢55.00 Guests can enjoy a choice of th-ree delicious coursesfi"om Thackeray's 'Du jour' lunch menu. This is available every weekday. The current menu includes entrees such as Slow Poached Scottish Salmon with a Bois Boudran Dressing, Cream Cheese and Chives with Apple Syrup. Nlain courses include .fore Rib ofAged Beefin Red Wine served with Spinach, Watercre~~ Potato cooked in Duck Fat & Bearnaise Sauce. The desserts include the sublime 70% Chocolate Mousse with Honeycomb, Biscuit Crumble and Pistachio lee Cream.

And the J!.uxu'ly doesn 't stop the'le... After lunch, and less than 5 minutes walk away.from the restaurant, you will be immersed in the calm and serene environment ofReal Salon + Spa's brand new Therapy Ro01n to enjoy your choice ofeither an hou路r long Aveda Elemental Nature Massage or Elemental Nature Facial. Both treatments are personalised to each guest's ::.pec~fic needs using the aromatic power ofAveda 's Pure Flower Essences and pure, plant-based skincare range. This offer is available to purchase throughout March and April and there are no time restrictions for using the voucher, however please check on the web:sites for opening times.

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is precious, there is the option to enjoy both experiences on separate days. To take advantage of this fantastic offer simpzy call Thackeray's on 01892 511921 or Real on 01892 517297

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V. AVEDA.

aar

thl' 8rt and S<il'OC@

of pure flower and pta nt essences HEAl> + HEII!\T + BODY.+ SOU~

19/02/2015 09:39

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CONFIDENTIAL BY TACITUS

WHO

NOTHING ESCAPES OUR ATTENTION

turned penny pinching and nasty over a wedding? that would be the mother of the groom who fell out with the parents of the bride over where the marriage should take place. she wanted it near the family home in the midlands. the parents argued successfully for it to be in their local church in the weald. both had agreed to split the cost of the wedding. the woman though deducted travelling expenses and hotel accommodation from her share. happy families!

WHY

WHICH

WHO

WHY

does this business speaker

estate agent told

is trying to keep their

should these two shop assistants lower their voices?

need to watch his step?

a bit of a porky?

lottery win quiet?

Because after addressing a

The one who advised a client

That would be the man who

Because when they were

networking event, he handed

that a potential buyer was not

collected a bundle of money,

moaning about their jobs, one

out business cards showing

interested in the property

thought to be around £250,000,

was heard telling the other:

some impressive university

because they “hated the

but ticked the box about no

“The bosses want us to give

grades and an industry award.

garden”. The reality was the

publicity. Seems he doesn’t want

customers the service and

Background checks revealed he

agent forgot to turn up for the

the rest of his family to know

product knowledge of Waitrose

had not actually graduated and

viewing and the garden was the

about the windfall that he intends

but pay us the wages of Lidl

had not won the prestigious

only part of the property they

to spend mainly on himself and his

and give us the training of The

award – he was runner-up.

could see. Naughty.

girlfriend. That’ll delight his wife.

Pound Shop.” Who feels neglected then!

WHO

WHY

WHICH

WHO

had a fantastic

does this pub nicely

advertising boss had

won a round of drinks

Valentine’s Day?

sum up the place we live?

trouble gettIng back home?

with a party trick?

Simples: the commuter we told

Because of the following

The one who went on a lads’

The chap who bet a pub

you about in December who was

conversation: well-dressed

weekend to Amsterdam with three

landlord he could stand on one

slipped a mobile number by an

woman enters bar orders large

friends and drove a beat-up old

leg and tuck the other behind

attractive young woman. He rang

G&T and says: “Hell of a day.

banger for a laugh. When they

his head without falling over.

the number, arranged a dinner

Tried to book three different villas

arrived back in Dover, suspicious

Bet accepted, he took off his

date and it turns out, they have

in Dubai for our hols and would

customs officers (think enhancing

prosthetic carbon fibre leg

now both fallen deeply in love

you believe, they were all taken!

substances) detained and quizzed

and duly performed. A few

with each other. What a happy

Had to settle for another one, not

them before opening the boot and

years ago he was badly

ending – let’s hope it lasts!

as good, for £38,000.”

finding – tulips!

injured in a car crash.

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

MARCH 2015

SO TW_MARCH15_Confidential.indd 3

19/02/2015 13:08

SPRING INTO I

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18/02/2015 16:59

THE LOOK

FASHION INSIDER

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

STEAL HER STYLE Reese Witherspoon’s look gives the lace dress a modern approach with all-over floral embroidery, scalloped trims and a contrasting collar. Turn heads and add this beautiful statement piece by Self-Portrait to your own spring/summer wardrobe (£320 at www.self-portrait-studio.com)

f you haven’t already, it’s time to book out a couple of hours in your diary and get down to it: a thorough wardrobe detox. I’ve said this

before, but it’s a good reminder – if done regularly, in a ruthless manner, you’ll end up saving a lot of time and stress every morning while you get ready to start your day. It’s an important job, partly because every year, you may end up accumulating a whole collection of unworn, unused items that just sit there gathering dust unnecessarily. But it’s also vital because there may have been events that have changed or had an impact on your lifestyle, career, social networking etc and so it’s important that your wardrobe reflects those HELGA ESTEB

changes too. Whether you’ve had a child, changed jobs or started a business, there will be areas of your wardrobe that will need to work better for you than others. Items you used to cherish but no longer wear

“PEOPLE WILL STARE. MAKE IT WORTH THEIR WHILE.” HARRY WINSTON

top

TIP

For a feminine looking neckline, layer dainty necklaces over your spring tops and dresses. This will add an intricate element to your overall look.

should be cleared, to allow you to replace them with things you’ll enjoy wearing now. There’s a difference between holding onto key classic pieces, like a good quality wool coat, and an old blouse or pair of trousers that used to be great ‘back then’ but can easily be replaced with something suitable for you now. And a final word on your jewellery and accessories – if you happen to own a multitude of big, small, long, short, colourful, plastic beaded or stoned necklaces, and bangles and bracelets

Splurge Vs Steal Invest in the chunky heel trend this season with these Bella sandals (left, £129 at www.hobbs.com)) or make an equally stylish statement with this pair from Topshop (£30 at www.topshop.com) and simply team with tapered pants or midi skirt

of all shapes and colours, which you never wear, there’s no time like the present to clear your jewellery box of them. Unless it has sentimental value, of course, replace with just a few key pieces, something to suit your style. Start with some easy to wear, fine necklaces, like the one above from Boticca (£130 at www.boticca.com). It will make putting the final touches to your outfits so much easier.

Catherine de Crèvecoeur

PERSONAL STYLIST www.stylepourmoi.com

MARCH 2015

SO TW_MARCH15_TheLook_Fashion Insider.indd 3

19/02/2015 11:59

LAD IES FASH ION SS 2015 ON THE UPPER GROUND FLOOR

It's time to strip back those heavy autumn layers and replace with softer, light weight transitional pieces. Whilst we wait in anticipation for the warm sunshine and gentle breezes of spring, it's the perfect opportunity for the style savvy to start updating existing trends and have lots of fun investing in new. This spring there is so much choice, so what will the f ocus be at Fen wick Tunbridge Wells? Spring fashion will be fun and frivolous, with so much colour to play with. From a confection of sweet earthy pastel shades to the hot shades of Salsa, however, we will see that bright vivid colours have been toned down, delicately understated with a cooler, softer palette. The lightest of shades will merge with the brighter spectrum, whilst always looking natural rather than manufactured. White and neutral tones will b lend together for a cool, relaxed and contemporary twist. The softest hues of pink will b lur through to raspberry, peach to coral, arylide yellow through to banana essence, apple m int to aqua, pastel blue through to cornflower, azure and navy, chalky wh ites and bone through to stone, silver grey and dove grey right through to charcoal b lack. The season is going to be beautiful! Think p instripes, gingham checks, d itsy liberty floral or baroque prints. There's a lot going on and don't be shy - try mixing them up and wearing them clashing together. Flu id and oversized fits will be perfect for comfort and keeping you cool, and YES will keep you looking stylish and right on trend! Look out for the classic artisan shirt or oversized tunic, inspired by artists and craftsmen the world over. Boxy tops and T's in crisp cotton or washed linen are paired with slim capri pants and the baggy beach jumper, featuring a scoop neck, long sleeves with a roomy fit that hangs off the body perfectly. Soft washed fabrics with stitched detail creating quilted patterns, back pleats and curved hems will add drama and interest!

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In trousers you will see both fitted and baggy silhouettes, in plain or patterned fabrics. Denim, crisp cotton, washed linen and jersey will be worn with either a tapered o r wide hem seen in culottes, baggy loose fitting palazzo trousers and luxe sport track pants. And don't throw out your old jeans or hand-me-downs. Wear them torn at the knee or embellished with embroidery, patches or gemstones there are no rules for denim this season. The shirt dress will be worn in soft ethereal fabrics, gently belted at the waist, creating a soft blouson effect. Look out fo r military style, but with a much softer and more feminine aesthetic. For all you shoe-lovers, there will be lots of options to choose from. Footwear should be comfortable too, with pointy toe and ankle strap flats, sneakers, slipper flats, mules or loafers. All will compliment your outfits perfectly. We're sure that with a little spring sunshine, our summer trends will help restore a sense of well-being in the season ahead.

Fenwick Royal Victoria Place Tunbridge Wells Kent TN1 2SR Telephone: 01892 516716 www.fenwick.co.uk

19/02/2015 12:05

WEEKEND

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19/02/2015 12:06

LADIES FASHION SS 2015 ON THE UPPER GROUND FLOOR

OSKA SPRING 2015 THE INSPIRATION FOR "FRESCO" Faded colours, irregular plaster, sand warmed by the sun, cool blue shadows, pine trees .. . Fresco shades are blended in warm colour combinations with light and medium nuances of beige and grey, accentuated with muted highlight colours. New pigment dye techniques bring irregular "whitewashed" surface effects to linen and cotton, whilst random placed tucks pattern the delicate surface materials. A sporty denim look on linen is the central statement in tone-on-tone combinations with shaded checks and fil-a-fi1. Compact cotton-neoprene is the latest inspiration for coats and parkas. The sweatwear look in knitwear and jerseys adds a sporty emphasis. Collarless boxy coat and jacket shapes unite aspects of the kimono with wide sleeves and broad sleeve cuffs. Blousons of different lengths and volume advance to becoming eveningwear. Shortened slender trousers are turned up. The new volume of softly flowing trousers and sarouel-inspired divided skirts and jumpsuits update the OSKA look. Dresses remain strong, asymmetrically swinging hems stand out.

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAIL

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19/02/2015 12:06

LADIES FASHION SS 2015 ON T HE UPPER GROUND FLOOR

NO EXCUSES OUR VISION IS FOR AN INDUSTRY WHERE HUMAN RIGHTS AND SUSTAINABI LITY ARE NOT TH E EFFECT OF A PARTICULAR INITIATIVE, BUT THE CAUSE OF A BUSINESS WELL RUN. WHERE SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL INJUSTICES ARE NOT UNFORTUNATE OUTCOMES, BUT REASONS TO DO THINGS DIFFERENTLY. WHERE EXCUSES ARE IGNORED AND ACTION IS TAKEN . WE'RE WORKING TOWARD A WORLD IN WHICH THE CLOTHES YOU LOVE TO WEAR CREATE NOTHING BUT LOVE.

#EFVISION2020

EILEEN FISHER

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19/02/2015 12:07

LAD IES FASH ION SS 2015 ON THE UPPER GROUND FLOOR

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19/02/2015 12:08

LADIES FASHION SS 2015 ON THE UPPER GROUND FLOOR

. M AS A I ~~-o/~~ For the spring of 2015, MASAI has found inspiration in western cities- the pulsating nerve of London, the bohemian lifestyle of Paris, and the Mediterranean lightness of Milan. Eastern mystique always plays a featuring role, not only as an inspiration for patterns and colours, but also in the individual models. There are multiple combination possibilities in terms of prints and qualities as well as colours and silhouettes. Oversize silhouettes can be mixed with the more bodyhugging look. Layer-upon-layer is back, with a mix of different qualities. Print is more predominant than ever, and the customer can personalise the look through her very own interpretation of combinations and styling based on the diverse and inspiring collection. Qualities, silhouettes and the gorgeous mix of colours together add up to present MASAI's recognisable DNA.

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19/02/2015 12:08

LAD IES FASHION SS 2015 ON THE UPPER GROUND FLOOR

. ....

~ella .Jo~es

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19/02/2015 12:08

THE LOOK

SPRING FLING

FROM FLORAL FROCKS TO SWEET SKIRTS, PUT A SPRING IN YOUR STEP WITH THESE PRETTY PICK-ME-UPS

PHASE EIGHT

BODEN

Bergamot dress, £130 www.phase-eight.com

Sylvia dress, £119 www.boden.co.uk

UNTOLD

Pink jacquard full skirt, £120 www.houseoffraser.co.uk

20TH CENTURY FOXY

1950s swing dress, £120 www.20thcenturyfoxy.com

LITTLE WHITE LIES

Josie dress, £105 www.littlewhitelieslondon.co.uk

J BY JASPER CONRAN Spotty dress, £95 www.debenhams.com

KALIKO

Lemon embroidery detail dress, £149 www.kaliko.co.uk

CATH KIDSTON

Paradise bunch crepe jumpsuit, £95 www.cathkidston.com

FADENMEISTER BERLIN Pink dress, £315 www.peterhahn.co.uk

PHASE EIGHT

Kensington fit & flare dress, £110 www.phase-eight.co.uk

HOBBS

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

MONSOON

Sophia prom dress (available April), £119 www.monsoon.co.uk

MARCH 2015

SO TW_MARCH15_TheLook_Spring Fling_2.indd 3

19/02/2015 11:58

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18/02/2015 16:59

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Introducing Dermatology Tun bridge \Nells rtwskln are d e lighted t o announce t h e launch o f De rm ato lo g y T unbridg e W ells Dr Nicola Meschino with over 20 years experience in practical and cosmetic dermatology, will lead the department assisted by Dr Fatima Ahmed.

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18/02/2015 17:00

IlSE JACOBSEN HOR.NBA:K

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19/02/2015 12:54

THE LOOK

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

welcome retreat

hose who love to be

in the Waterleaf Restaurant,

pampered are in luck

led by Mark Sargeant, who was

as a new £8million

formerly Head Chef at Gordon

luxury health spa and gym

Ramsay’s Michelin starred eatery

opens in Borough Green.Set in

at Claridge’s. The complex has

16 acres of parkland at Basted

been created by local former

House, The Reynolds Retreat

ballet dancer Emma Reynolds and

boasts over 25,000 sq ft of the

her husband Jason; the couple

latest in high end fitness, thermal

have run health clubs, spas and

spa and treatment facilities. The

dance academies in Kent for 20

restored house offers a state-of-

years.“We feel we have created

the-art gymnasium, where you

a club that has broad appeal,

can take a number of classes,

whether we receive a member

while the spa features a chlorine-

who wants to gain more vitality,

free infinity pool with views over

kick-start a healthy weight loss

the grounds, an invigorating

programme or simply relax, or

Scandinavian style ice fountain, a

those who have an ultimate

warm hydrotherapy pool and an

endurance and fitness goal, such

aroma and wet salt steam bath.

as completing a triathalon,” Emma

Post-treatment treats are available

says. www.reynoldsgroup.co.uk

LAND OF AUS Goodies from Down Under are now available here with the launch of Sasy and Savy in the UK. Marketed as an authentic Australian brand, the range of award winning, organic skincare and wellbeing products are made using only Australian plants, herbs and flower extracts. Suitable for vegans, the products are free from any harmful chemicals, colours and synthetic ingredients, and are not tested on animals.Four key ingredients form the base for each product: Kakadu Plum extract, which is the world’s highest source of vitamin C; the antioxidant Bearberry Leaf, which helps to repair damaged skin; the natural protein and nutrient-packed Wild Rosella Flower Extract and Australian Essential Oil. The range includes the Pure Crème Rose

BEAUTIFUL ASPIRATIONS

Geranium Cleanser, the Spearmint and Lavender Seasalt Foaming

Nearly a third of young women

ambitions expressed were not

Cleanser (both £21.80 for 100ml) and the Vitamin Enriched Facial

dream of a career in the

yet reflected in reality, with only

Recovery Masque (100ml, £30), plus the wellbeing range features

beauty industry, according to a

21% of participants already

three scented massage oils and floral sprays (from £19 for 125ml).

recent survey. A study by the

working in their chosen area.

Prices range from £17.50 to £92.50. You can view the full range and

British Association of Beauty

“It’s very positive to see the

buy at www.sasynsavy.co.uk

Therapists and Cosmetology

beauty industry come so high in

(Babtac) polled more than 2,100

the career aspirations of young

women aged between 18 and

women,” says Colin Webster,

25, of which 29% aspired to

General Manager of Babtac.

be beauty therapists. Only two

“There is an awful lot that

other fields scored higher, both

careers in the industry can offer

of which were related to image –

people, though some aspiring

36% of those surveyed hankered

beauty therapists may be

after a career in hairdressing,

disappointed to find that there’s

while 31% wanted to work in

a lot more to the job than the

fashion.However, most of the

stereotypes in the media.” MARCH 2015

SO TW_MARCH15_TheLook_Beauty News.indd 3

19/02/2015 12:01

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19/02/2015 09:44

ADVERTORIAL

At Present, previously Wells Hot Yoga, you will find a calm and intimate environment; a place where you can unwind from the stresses of the day and bring your focus inward, giving yourself time to take notice of how you really feel, notice who you really are, connect with yourself and nurture yourself. We teach a variety of Hatha and Vinyasa Flow Yoga classes in a studio heated to approximately 38°C. The heat instantly helps to relax the body and mind, allowing you to become more physically and mentally open. This is an effective and simple way of maintaining a healthy body and mind; relieving tension and stress, managing injuries and alleviating stiffness, aches and pains. In addition to classes, we offer private 1:1 and 2:1 sessions, as well as yoga and meditation workshops. Will hot yoga benefit me? Whether you are looking to combat stress, rehabilitate after an injury, wanting to improve sporting performance or just looking for a way to wind down after a long day at work, we truly believe hot yoga will make a difference to your life. Suitable for both beginners and advanced students, every class follows a sequence of poses and breathing techniques, allowing you to continually improve your practice and work to your own ability. Location and facilities Situated in the St John’s area of Tunbridge Wells, the studio comfortably accommodates nine students in each class. We use radiant heat to warm the room, ensuring a comfortable and

FINDING PRESENCE

safe environment to practise yoga. Facilities are available for changing and a shower is available

Looking to increase your flexibility and be at one with yourself in the moment? Then hot yoga could be the answer. At Present in Tunbridge Wells, you’ll learn how to make the most of now through a series of classes that will show you how to relax and reconnect with who you are

if you should require the use of one after class.

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Pop into either our Hawkhurst or Hastings shop for more information on these tours

Untitled-13 2

19/02/2015 14:11

ADVERTORIAL

THIRST FOR ADVENTURE Looking for an alternative trip with a difference? Meet the Tunbridge Wells family who experienced the challenge of a lifetime with Clipper Ventures

unbridge Wells family the Fitzsimmons were

about the race from prominent businessman and

looking for the ultimate adventure. Last year,

family friend, Sir Keith Mills, who took part in 1998.

Lizzy Fitzsimmons, a 28-year-old

Following and supporting Wendy on her adventure,

Environmental Consultant and her father, David, a

Lizzy and David were inspired to take on the

59-year-old businessman from Penshurst, took part

challenge themselves last year.

in the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest ocean race. Lizzy, now based in London, attended

An endurance test like no other, the Clipper Race is 40,000 nautical miles long, taking almost a year to

Holmewood House School and was a member of

complete, and is the only global race of its kind for

the local Brownies group at King Charles Hall.

everyday people. Divided into eight legs that include

Father David lives in Tunbridge Wells with wife

a series of individually scored races, crew can

Wendy, who took part in the biennial Clipper Round

choose to complete the full circumnavigation of one

the World Yacht Race in 2011. Wife and mother

or more of the legs, which are around five to seven

Wendy, a 60-year-old former Barrister, first heard

weeks long each if you have limited time or funds.

MARCH 2015

SO TW_MARCH15_Advertorial_ClipperVentures.indd 2

19/02/2015 12:49

ADVERTORIAL

Wendy Fitzsimmons

Lizzy Fitzsimmons

David Fitzsimmons

Southern, Pacific and North Atlantic oceans,

definitely a sense of ‘bring it!’ among the crew

visiting ports around the world, including Rio de

– we were ready. We managed to be the first

Janeiro, Cape Town, Sydney and the iconic

boat to hoist our kite across the start line and

Rolex Sydney Hobart Race, Qingdao in China

had an amazing start; a huge spectator boat

and New York, to name a few. David took part in

cheered us on with the iconic Table Mountain

three legs, crossing more than 12,000 nautical

in the background. It was an epic start to what

miles and spending three months at sea.

turned out to be an immense journey.

As we count down to the 2015-16 edition of

I still find it hard to believe that only a few

the Clipper Race this summer, we speak to

months ago, I was battling waves the size of

daughter Lizzy about her amazing adventure.

houses, extreme cold storms, sweltering heat and becalmed waters. I also enjoyed the

HOW DID YOU PREPARE FOR

breath-taking scenery and wildlife – my boat

THE RACE?

was even bitten by a shark!

Lizzy: I completed the compulsory four levels of training in the UK, but you can also train in

WHAT WAS YOUR MOST UNIQUE

Sydney, Australia. Training was a lot of laughs,

MOMENT FROM THE RACE?

incredibly hard work and really fun. It was a

Lizzy: Celebrating Canada Day. I was on a

challenge as my only real sailing experience has

Scottish partnered boat, we had a Dutch

been very easy cruising! However, it’s amazing

skipper, listening to the Canadian national

how quickly you can become used to boat life

anthem being sung by a Brit, while peeling

and the challenges it presents. You bond so

potatoes. We sang the national anthem, played

quickly with your fellow crew, mostly over bad

Canadian charades and ate ‘Canada cake’. It

porridge, midnight sail changes and the hundreds

just goes to show the international influence of

of other things that just make you think, “Why

the race. It was definitely one of those

am I doing this?” when you’re doing them, but

moments where you sit back and think, “What

that you always laugh about later.

is going on here – this is great!”

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BEST

to become part of a very special club of

ACHIEVEMENTS AT SEA

people who share a thirst for adventure and

Lizzy: We didn’t have a great start to the race

challenge. More than 3,000 people have taken

leaving New York to race across the North

part in the Clipper Race since the first edition

Atlantic and decided to take down our

in 1996. Since the inaugural event, nine

spinnaker, as there was ice being spotted in the

residents from Tunbridge Wells have taken

water. If we hit ice, it would be devastating to

part in the challenge and there are 12

the boat, so we opted for a slower, but safer

residents from Kent taking part in the next

take on the challenge, as full training is provided

tactic. This left us in last place, about 500

edition of the race this summer.

and organisers supply a fleet of 12 identical

nautical miles behind the leader. However,

racing yachts, each with a fully qualified skipper

instead of giving up, the team pulled itself

to safely guide their non-professional crew. All

around and we came into Derry-Londonderry,

that is asked of participants is a good level of

Northern Ireland in third place after fighting

fitness, an age over 18 – and a thirst for

hard for two weeks to get those miles back.

adventure into the unknown.

Getting on the podium after all of that work

To become a Clipper Race crew member is

No previous sailing experience is necessary to

Want to represent your town while tackling the world’s oceans in the ultimate adventure? Find out more here:

was a huge achievement for the whole team.

WEB: www.clipperround

over the world, including everyone from taxi

ANY PARTICULAR HIGHLIGHTS?

FACEBOOK: www.facebook.

drivers to chief executives, students to doctors

Lizzy: One of them for me was leaving Cape

and many more.

Town; we had a fantastic stopover with friends

Up to 40% of crew members have never sailed before they sign up and come from all

Racing against her father, Lizzy took part in six

and family flying over to visit and we knew we

legs of the eight-leg series, crossing more than

had a very tough challenge ahead of us in the

27,000 nautical miles of ocean and spending

Southern Ocean. After an emotional farewell,

eight months at sea. Lizzy took on the mighty

we all got our racing heads on and there was

theworld.com com/clipperroundtheworld TWITTER: www.twitter.com/ clipperrace YOUTUBE: www.youtube. com/user/ClipperRTW

MARCH 2015

SO TW_MARCH15_Advertorial_ClipperVentures.indd 3

19/02/2015 12:49

any better way to take off to Spain? If you're looking for a break away with stress-free travel and the freedom to take your car, then why not start your holiday with an overnight cruise to northern Spain from Portsmouth? Within a 2 hour drive- but far less hassle t han the airport - you'll enjoy a mini cruise experience with fine dining, stylish bars and lounges, tax free shopping, movie lounge and entertainment - not to mention comfortable en suite cabins. When you arrive, you'll quickly realise the magnificent landscapes and coastline of this lesser known region offer a truly authentic Spanish experience, with delicious food and wine, and chic shopping. Explore it for yourself this spring with our choice of hotel breaks.

5-Star Santander 4 nights from ÂŁ234pp

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INTERVIEW

STEP INTO SPRING

This time of year is a delight for gardeners, as their outdoor space springs back into life. Whether you’re green-fingered or simply long for a stunning alfresco retreat, here are some fantastic ideas for making the most of your garden throughout the coming months

TREE SURVIVE Tree Survive are a tree management company, offering a friendly and complete Arboricultural service from tree planting and tree pruning, to crown thinning and crown reductions, tree felling and stump grinding. All tree work is carried out by qualified arborists adhering to the British Standard BS3998 Arboriculture. Tree Survive are specialists in the latest climbing and rigging techniques, making their work safe and efficient. The health of the tree and the environment it lives in are of upmost importance to the team at Tree Survive, thus ensuring the correct method of pruning is always implemented. If you want your trees cared for properly, please don’t hesitate to call us or email us for free

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LEAF MATTERS Spring is just around the corner. Bulbs are beginning to poke their heads out of the ground, while trees are slowly coming out of their winter slumber, their sap rising up and outwards to provide energy to budding new leaves. Now’s the perfect time to cut back any shrubs and trees to bring more light into your garden and if you are looking to prune or plant new trees, then best to do that no later than the end of March. Contact Leafmatters, professional tree surgeons, for expert advice on all aspects of tree work. 01732 451 351

www.leafmatters.co.uk

SMALL LOADS As seen on TV, Gabion cages are the new vogue for gardeners and designers who like to be different. Gabion cages are so versatile; from retaining walls, raised beds, planters, pond edging and furniture to creating your own natural environment – the insects love them. What will you fill yours with? More pictures and prices can be found on the Small Loads website. Forstal House, Maidstone Road, Paddock Wood, Kent TN12 6PY 01892 833 325 www.smallloads.co.uk

GARDEN PROUD Gardenproud will help you transform an area, or your complete garden, with our design and landscaping teams. Then we can help you care for your garden through Gardenproud’s regular maintenance service. See more about Gardenproud on our website and read about our latest news on our blog www.reallygardenproud.com/blog The Red House, Camden Park, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 4TN 07725 173 820

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From removing an oversized tree to pruning ashrub. At Leafmatters, we provide a comprehensive and reliable service for all aspects of tree work, however big or small the job. And because we are fully qualified and insured, you can be certain that the work we do is completed to the highest standard. For more information visit us at leafmatters.co.uk or call now for a free quote on 01732 451351

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

Adam Sutton BSc (Hons) Environmental Science Tim Playfoot BA (Hons) Garden Design Te1:01892 722699 Adam:07979 362241 Tim:07990 751353 www.p1ayfootgardendesign.co.uk

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GARDENS

GLORIOUS GARDENS

Emma Davies, who runs The Walled Nursery in Hawkhurst with her husband Monty, tells us how to spring clean your garden THE DAYS ARE getting longer, the sun is getting higher, gardeners’ fingers are getting ever itchier – it’s time to get ready for spring! In early March, our beds may still be a bit too soggy to get much work done in them – do remember that trying to work with claggy, moisture logged soil will do more harm than good. It’s much better to wait until it dries out a bit, as walking on the soil will break down the structure, pushing all the air out and making sludge instead. There are plenty of other jobs you can be getting on with in order to get ahead. tennuissima will benefit from a few sharp tugs

once you have managed to have a weed through,

scaffold boards to walk on so that you don’t

at the tatty, strap leaves around the edges.

give your beds a good, thick layer of mulch from

compact the soil. If you haven’t already done

They’ll come away easily and will immediately

your well rotted compost heap. It will help to get

so, pull up last year’s annuals. They will have

smarten up the plant. Pennisetums can be a

you a good crumbly soil. No need to dig it in, let

seeded by now, so their job is done and it’s

little fragile; I’d advise you to leave them to chop

the worms do that for you. Mulching will help

time for the compost heap. Remove last year’s

later once risk of frost has passed, which for us

keep weeds at bay too but do remember, don’t

growth from herbaceous perennials; it’ll please

is usually around the end of May.

compost pernicious weeds such as Mare’s Tail,

If you do need to carry out work in beds, use

you to see that new growth is emerging but do

You really should have pruned your roses and

ground elder or nettles or they will end up being spread around your garden.

be careful not to cut into it! If you still have

wisteria by now, but if not, quick – get a move

leaves lying around, sweep them up to expose

on! All roses should have damaged or crossing

any bulbs that may be popping up already.

wood removed. Roses need a good prune to

don’t despair. Use a bin with a lid, drop the

encourage them to put on lots of new flowering

weeds into it and leave them there to

Ornamental grasses that were left for

If you do have a pernicious weed problem,

growth. Remember, a rose gets woodier

decompose completely – you’ll end up with a

be cut. Leave around four inches, new

as it gets older and the more hard bark

foul smelling soup! Pour this liquid onto your

growth will start once they’re ready. Not

that forms, the fewer flowering buds

compost pile; this helps to increase the rate of

architectural interest over the winter can now

all ornamental grasses need to be cut – Carex’s and Stipas

you’ll have, so chop, get new growth

decomposition and keeps rats away, as they

going and enjoy more flowers.

hate wet environments. Avoid putting too much

There is plenty of information on

woody material on your compost as this will

the internet about different methods of pruning depending on the type of rose you have, just make sure you do it! Start a new compost pile or bay. It’s best to start afresh each year if you have the space.

take a lot longer to rot down. Create a woody compost area or start a bonfire pile. Spring cleaning your garden now paves the way for the fun bit of planting, rejigging and enjoying your garden later on.

Leave last year’s compost to decompose so that you can use it the following year to mulch your

Happy gardening!

garden. If you are tight on space, pallets make

Emma

great smaller bays in a row. During the spring,

www.thewallednursery.com

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EVERYTHING’S ROSY IN THE GARDEN

With spring in the air, thoughts turn to our reviving gardens and what better place to find inspiration than one of the world’s most important gardens? In the first of an occasional series, we pay a visit to one of Kent’s finest National Trust properties – Sissinghurst Castle Garden – to discover more about the heritage and future of this most influential of outdoor retreats Photos courtesy of National Trust

ANYONE WHO VISITS Sissinghurst Castle

Garden in Wales and that was really amazing,”

Garden, near Cranbrook, cannot help but be

he says. “That was 130 acres and Sissinghurst

captivated by this stunning celebration of nature

is just six acres, so the contrast was stark. But

and nurture. Not only a beautiful attraction in its

having worked here before, I knew the garden

own right, the garden has also been a major

really well and, more than plants themselves,

trendsetter in the horticultural world and continues

I’m interested in how you use plants in a

to provide a source of inspiration for the green-

specific environment. Lots of gardens drift away

fingered, more than 80 years after it was first

from that, but design is important and

established by a very famous former owner.

Sissinghurst does that really well within the

For Head Gardener of two years, Troy

framework of the hedging. Planting is all-

Smith, Sissinghurst really is the pinnacle of

important and using my experience, I felt that I

gardening expertise.

could do something good here.”

“This is one of the finest gardens in the

It’s not surprising that the garden exudes

world,” he says with pride. “People say that

character, having been founded by two

enjoyed a conventional marriage – both parties

lightly about places, but Sissinghurst has been

significant horticultural and literary figures who

were renowned for their extra-marital adventures

really influential in gardening and has been

certainly lived colourful lives. Flamboyant writer

– together Vita and Harold created a garden that

copied all over the world. It really is very

Vita Sackville-West was passionately interested

celebrated their shared love of romance and the

beautiful – it has a great sense of character.”

in planting and after being barred from inheriting

great English garden.

Troy is in a good position to judge – after

her ancestral home, Knole in Sevenoaks,

By creating a series of ‘rooms’ within the

initially working at Sissinghurst for five years in

because she was a woman, Vita set about

garden, they set a distinct and enduring new

the 1990s, he acted as Head Gardener at two

making her mark at Sissinghurst Castle. And

trend. They were also responsible for making

other National Trust properties before returning

along with her diplomat husband, Harold

popular the idea of using colour themes.

to Kent to take up the lead post.

Nicolson, she achieved just that.

Designed to be viewed best by moonlight, Vita’s

“Before coming back here I was at Bodnant

Although the couple may not always have

White Garden was an astonishing new concept in the 1930s and visitors continue to be enchanted by the scheme today.

White Garden

With such a heavy weight of history and expectation upon their shoulders, it would not be surprising if the Head Gardener felt a little constricted. However, Troy views the garden’s fame as something to be worked with and respected, by both moving forward and tipping its hat to the past. “You can’t help but feel that somebody is looking over your shoulder – not just Vita, but subsequent gardeners too,” he says. “The gardeners employed by Vita stayed here for 30 years. They left an air of history here and now it’s my turn to look after it. “The nature of gardens is that they’re

Rose Garden

104

constantly changing; a garden is a living thing. It’s not like a painting, which is hung on a wall

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GARDENS

Vita and Harold. Their garden was as much about romance and intimacy as about horticulture.” So, if visitors are inspired by their experience, how can they take a little of the essence of Sissinghurst Castle home to their own gardens? “It’s important to grow plants that you really love,” Troy advises. “Vita and Harold travelled to the Alps and all over, bringing home plants and seeds from the places they loved to go. Vita also used lots of plants with literary connections to the books she liked to read. A plant should either work really hard and contribute something, or it should be a plant you really love. What’s the point of having a plant if it has no connection to the space around it?” This month Troy and his team will spend most of their time finishing off the ‘heavy’ winter jobs, such as pruning, clearing away old growth, forking through the soil and planting new spring flowers. But there will still be time to enjoy the garden,

“YOU CAN’T HELP BUT FEEL THAT SOMEBODY IS LOOKING OVER YOUR SHOULDER – NOT JUST VITA, BUT SUBSEQUENT GARDENERS TOO”

although Troy struggles to name his favourite part. “Every ‘room’ has its peak, but if I was really pushed, I’d have to say the rose garden is my favourite. It’s a really good design, it feels romantic and when you open the big wooden door in the morning, the scent is lovely and strong. It’s a beautiful space.”

SISSINGHURST CASTLE GARDEN Biddenden Road, near Cranbrook, Kent TN17 2AB For opening times, call 01580 710 700 and it’s finished. Plants die and are reborn, and

been altered, we have to question those changes

or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/

change is part of a garden, so you shouldn’t be

and think whether there is a good reason to put

sissinghurst-castle-garden

afraid of that and it’s something I enjoy.”

something back in Vita and Harold’s style.

Rather than striving to move away from Vita

“For example, there used to be some lovely

Would you like to view Vita’s White

and Harold’s influence, Troy is looking to

almond trees in the White Garden, but in the

Garden by moonlight? You can enjoy a

incorporate their ideas as the garden moves on

1970s they died and the decision was made not

unique private experience by staying

into the 21st century.

to replace them. But we might put them back

overnight at the Priest’s House holiday

now because they’re important to the character

cottage at Sissinghurst Castle Garden

of Vita and Harold, as the garden’s creators,

of the garden. There may be fewer white flowers

– for more information visit

first,” he says. “We have to reference the layers

afterwards because we’ll need more shade-

www.nationaltrustcottages.co.uk

that came after they were here, but if things have

loving plants, but that was the planting vision of

“My vision is, where possible, to put the vision

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INTERIORS

Pimlico bed linen, www.thewhitecompany.com

Master the bedroom With spring on the horizon and designers launching their latest bed linen collections, there couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be a better time to give your bedroom a little bit of love and attention

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INTERIORS

A beautiful white bedroom, layered with elegant neutrals, is always a trend statement

thread count linen range is by far the bestseller within the current collection and we’ll be focusing on expanding our highest quality ranges for 2015.” The height of luxury and Rolls-Royce of bed linen sets, 1,000-thread count is the highest quality yarn and will sustain more wear and tear than lower, say between 200 and 600 threads. As Paul Deckland, Decorative Bed Linens Buyer at John Lewis, points out: “Thread count Rose and Bee bed linen, www.emmabridgewater.co.uk

is the number of yarns packed into every square inch of fabric. The higher the thread count, the softer the bed linen – think crisp and sumptuous

hotel sheets. High quality Egyptian cotton emember that the bedroom is the

give the bedroom personality, while layering the

bedding is an ideal option. It’s supremely soft

most intimate room in the house,

bed will create the complete effect.”

and also exceptionally hard-wearing, thanks to

where we go to unwind and relax –

Indeed, scattering softly-coloured decorative

the longer threads of the Egyptian cotton plant,

and, if we’re lucky enough, where we

cushions and a beautiful throw at the bottom of

which are stronger and more durable than other

spend a third of our lives sleeping.

the bed for a neutral but textured look, adds

cottons, so your sheeting will last for years to

interest without overwhelming the scheme. And

come, wash after wash.”

A haven of tranquility with plenty of scope for

Other designers, such as Dorma, have also

personal touches, simple pleasures such as soft

if you can’t resist decorative details for a more

cotton sheets, a boudoir cushion and a throw

luxurious feel, delicate lace borders, embroidery,

introduced a higher quality thread count to their

can evoke a feeling of wellbeing, enhance your

seersucker or a subtle floral pattern in a muted

luxury bedding collections to help meet

space and be an open invitation to come to bed.

colour palette are right on trend for 2015.

customer demand.

“The most important thing about your

“This season, we have gone one step

bedrooms, white or Champagne tones are

bedroom is that it reflects your personal style

further with our most luxurious bed linen to

timeless, romantic and naturally calming,

and taste; it has to be a place that you want to

date, a true 100-thread count, which

making the perfect antidote to a busy day,” says

be. Whether you share or have the room all to

complements our indulgent Pyrenean goose

Julie Hall, Head of Design at Bedeck. “As in

yourself, make it your favourite place to relax,”

down duvet and pillows, and our goose feather

fashion, the addition of stylish accessories can

advises Molly Freshwater, Founder of Secret

and down topper, for the most extravagant

Linen Store.

night’s sleep,” says Sarah Williamson, Dorma’s

“For a fresh, elegant look for spring

Classic, timeless designs, combined with the highest attention to detail, seem to be the ideal

“A beautiful white bedroom, layered with

way to create a tranquil feel for your sleeping

elegant neutrals, is always a trend statement,”

space and work the ‘boutique hotel’ look without

adds Williamson. “In addition, we are seeing

feeling like a guest under your own roof.

more soft greys and gorgeous large scale florals

And in keeping with the mode for a subtle palette, bestsellers are still white, cream and pale grey - but, according to Liam Butler, Brand

emerging, with flashes of hot pink as a spring/ summer 2015 trend.” If you can’t commit to colour and prefer a

Director at Achica, there’s a definite trend for

more homely, pared-back scheme before

colour. As a result, Achica’s buying team have

getting some shut-eye, personalising your bed

developed a range – which will be available in the

linen with monogrammed initials will instantly

late spring – featuring hot pinks and cobalt blues

create a luxe feel and dress up the bed without

that can be layered into white and pale grey.

going overboard.

“Coloured bed linen is an easy way to update Finlay throws and Emilie duvet cover, www.thewhitecompany.com

Design and Brand Development Manager.

Alternatively, decorative props, such as a

a neutral scheme and add personality,” says

vintage trunk or suitcase, will give the room a

Butler. “Our customers are also more savvy

stylish designer look – and double up as a linen

when it comes to quality. The Achica 1,000-

cupboard/extra storage space.

MARCH 2015

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ADVERTORIAL

OUTDOOR LIVING LUXURY

If you’re looking for beautifully made garden furniture, look no further than Westminster Outdoor Living. Director Neil Richardson talks about the company and what’s in store at their new showroom in Tunbridge Wells

TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE COMPANY Westminster was incorporated in 1990 by the current MD, Robert Houlton. We started from humble beginnings, operating through a handful of retailers that became two handfuls the following year. Now, 25 years later, we operate through a countrywide network of stockists and interior design studios. The new shop in Tunbridge Wells, opening in March, is a big step forward in bringing the Westminster brand to the high street. We will be displaying our complete range of outdoor furniture, with the addition of Weber barbecues and cane furniture for the conservatory. HOW DOES YOUR FURNITURE HAVE AN EDGE OVER OTHER BRANDS? It’s the whole package, from design, quality materials and manufacture, right through to the after sales care. We make clients aware that we use the best materials available and that cushions adhere to all the fire standards. Another relevant point is that seasonal goods need to be available in the season, so we hold very high stocks in order to make this possible. WHAT’S YOUR MOST POPULAR LINE? An interesting question, with no real answer! Trends change year on year in relation to materials. A decade ago our sales would have been predominately teak; five years ago, it was synthetic weave; last year it was aluminium, synthetic weave, moulded resin and stainless steel! It’s an interesting time - outdoor lounge sets are definitely becoming more popular as people replicate their living room outside. ANY PREDICTIONS FOR WHAT’S GOING TO BE BIG IN 2015? Crystal ball, please! We believe that the products we are showcasing will appeal to a good cross-section of potential clients, due to the wide variety of materials and prices to suit tastes and pockets alike. Westminster Outdoor Living 12-16 London Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1DE 01892 524 337 www.westminsterfurniture.co.uk MARCH 2015

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

HKS A bedroom should be the ultimate place to relax and recharge. Comfortable and restful, simple or opulent, a bedroom is the ultimate expression of your personality within your home. That is why Daval bedrooms are all bespoke. Manufactured individually and made to measure, a Daval bedroom fits perfectly into your home and your life. HKS Interiors have been successfully selling Daval bedrooms for over 30 years. “Working with Daval is a designer’s dream,” explains HKS Managing Director, Tim Burgess. “We’re able to offer our clients wardrobes of any height, width and depth in a wide variety of colours and finishes. This gives our customers a truly bespoke bedroom at an extremely affordable price’. Showrooms in Heathfield, Haywards Heath, Eastbourne and St Leonards on Sea 01435 866 166 www.hks-uk.com

FIVE OF THE BEST... BEDROOMS

All year round, your bedroom should be a tranquil and stylish sanctuary in which to relax at the end of a busy day. Here, five leading local companies give their tips for turning your bedroom into a blissfully restful retreat

FLOORZ Floorz have been established in Tunbridge Wells since 2000 and we specialise in offering a unique range of bespoke solid and engineered hardwood floors. Our floors are manufactured in Holland, France and the Czech Republic and imported directly by Floorz. Clients can decide on each element of their new floor, from grade, thickness and width to surface texture, colour, finish etc, allowing our clients to create their own truly unique floors. 77 Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2UY 01892 516 638 www.floorz.co.uk

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

NEPTUNE TONBRIDGE We have always thought that a proper bed and a good pair of shoes are worth investing in – because if you’re not in one, then you’re in the other. When we started designing our bedroom ranges we wanted to create something beautiful and strong, yet fine and elegant. Whether it’s a stunning Larsson king size bed or original wardrobe, or a Chichester grand chest of drawers or Open bedside table, we have a piece to fill any place or suit any activity. For a closer look and an opportunity to see the full Neptune bedroom, kitchen and furniture range, visit our new 6,000 sq ft showroom in Tonbridge. Unit 1-2, Tanner Road Industrial Estate, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1RF 01732 351 866 www.neptunetonbridge.com

JOSEPH MCCARTHY FINE FRAMES Joseph McCarthy have been designing and making bespoke mirrors, frames and overmantels, in both traditional and contemporary styles, for over 25 years. We create mirrors that sit in perfect harmony with the surroundings, bringing a sense of space, light and animation to a room whilst also creating a beautiful focal point and a piece to treasure forever. Please browse our website for inspiration. 68 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TN 01892 527 528 www.josephmccarthy.co.uk

BLUEFIELD WARDROBES Whether your home is new or old, big or small, we have the solution to all your storage needs. Our aim is to design beautiful, state-of-the-art doors, changing the way people design and decorate their homes. With a wide range of sliding and hinge doors, plus matching furniture, we can give your home the style and look you require, at an affordable price. A small, south east based company, with over 20 years’ combined experience, we offer a complete ‘made to measure’, customised service from initial design through to installation. 0800 610 2020 sales@bluefieldwardrobes.co.uk www.bluefieldwardrobes.co.uk

MARCH 2015

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~ BARRIERS

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~ INTRUDER ALARMS

Security LONDON

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

Constructionline Untitled-9 2

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& BOLLARDS

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

1 -=-~ 1 19/02/2015 11:10

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

SECURITY

HOME FRONT

Spring is in the air and there’s a pervasive feeling of new life everywhere

perhaps, so you can enjoy an even prettier show of spring flowers

we turn. But as the garden comes to life and the birds return to the trees,

next year? Or are you looking for more leisure facilities with which

do you look forward to another year in your current home or is it time

to entertain family and friends – a high tech cinema room, a tennis

for pastures new? If you long to capture the essence of spring by making

court to start getting in shape for summer or maybe a wine cellar

a fresh start, you’ll find plenty of inspiration in the pages that follow.

for that burgeoning collection?

The Weald is a beautiful place to be at any time of year, but this season

We’ve got all that and more in this month’s selection of beautiful

is one of the best – a perfect time to look forward ahead and decide

Wealden homes, so read on and you’re sure to find something to

where you’d like to be next spring. Are you seeking a bigger garden,

put a spring in your step.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

ETCHINGHAM

CROUCH

ROTHERFIELD

HEATHFIELD

One of the town’s most

Award winning house is a

Grade II listed country

Versatile lodge house has

Sauna in the garden at

coveted Regency addresses

real grand design

pile with quaint folly

paddock and stables

modern family home

Price: £2.85million

Price: £3.95million

Price: £2.65million

Price: £1.75million

Price: OIRO £699,950

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

COUNTRY HOME HAS WINNING FORMULA

Award winning house in Etchingham has been extensively refurbished to create a home that is bursting with modern technology and stunning features

TAMARIND WAS THE regional winner and finalist in the national LABC Best

games room and access to the garage. On the first floor, the private sitting

Extension or Alteration category at the

room in the magnificent master bedroom

Building Excellence Awards, and one

suite also makes best use of the views

look inside the front door reveals why.

and opens onto an oak-decked balcony.

Combining the latest technology with

Three further bedrooms, another

top quality, natural materials and

bathroom and a shower room share this

delightful finishing touches, this is a

level; on the second floor you’ll find the

breathtaking property that boasts a

other two bedrooms, a bathroom,

seemingly endless list of sumptuous

shower room, sitting room and

extra features.

tank room.

The reception hall, kitchen/breakfast

Tamarind is set in the centre of its plot,

room, dining room and drawing room are

with landscaped gardens to the front and

arranged to make the most of the

mostly lawn at the rear, with some light

wonderful panorama at the rear of the

woodland and wide terracing. There’s

house. Also on the ground floor are a

also a floodlit tennis court if you’re

study, conservatory, utility room, cinema,

feeling active.

For full details contact: Hamptons International • 01892 516 611 • www.hamptons.co.uk 122

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

SECURITY

Property: Tamarind, detached country house Location: Sheepstreet Lane, Etchingham, East Sussex Price: £3.95million Bedrooms: 6 Bathrooms: 4 plus 2 shower rooms & WC Land: About 2.03 acres Extras: Conservatory, cinema room, games room, balcony, landscaped gardens, attached double garage, electric gates, pond, terracing, greenhouse, floodlit tennis court, gardener’s store Best bits: Movie fans will love the 12-seater cinema, where you can relax in leather reclining seats and enjoy the latest blockbusters on a 110” wide, high definition screen with a JVC 3D HD projector, Blu Ray player and a 7.2 surround sound system – all iPad controlled.

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CÂť HEL

BREEZE

THE LffiiNGS & MANAGEMENT SPECIALISTS

ARE YOU THINKING OF LETTING YOUR PROPERTY THIS SPRING? We have been assisting landlords in the Sevenoaks area for the last 25 years. We can help you through the letting process, giving you clear guidance on how best to prepare your property. Contact our lettings team for more information! To search for our properties online, please visit our website:

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

12 London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN 13 1Aj T: 01732 740789 F: 01732 740742 W: www.helenbreeze.co.uk

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

SECURITY

Property: Wanshurst, Grade II listed former farmhouse Location: Battle Lane, Marden, Kent Guide price: £1,295,000 Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2 plus WC Land: About 2 acres Extras: Wine store, walk-in pantry, attic room, detached two-bedroom annexe, period detached barn, double garage, orchard, paddock, pond Best bits: A recent sympathetic extension has created a stunning kitchen/breakfast room, which boasts a four-oven Aga and plenty of work surfaces. Walking through into the dining area, the space opens up with a vaulted ceiling and three sets of French doors opening to the garden.

VERSATILE CHARACTER HOME With ancillary accommodation and two acres of grounds, this 17th century house in Marden has plenty to offer

BELIEVED TO DATE from about 1650,

to relax in the television room and study.

Wanshurst is a period home that offers

You can entertain your guests in the

both character and versatility. The two-

separate dining room or in the magnificent

bedroom annexe cottage was converted

kitchen/breakfast room.

to a high standard in 1998, while the listed barn provides further potential. The property backs onto farmland, with

Two staircases lead to the first floor, where you’ll find the four bedrooms. The master bedroom suite benefits from

level gardens that are both extensive and

the added capacity of a dressing room,

easy to maintain; an orchard and paddock

a hall with fitted cupboards and a bathroom

area lie beyond. Two entrances give access

with a roll top bath and separate

from Battle Lane to the driveway and

shower. A second bathroom serves

there’s parking in the open fronted byre

the other bedrooms.

style garage.

On the second floor there is a substantial,

Inside, the drawing room has a splendid

unconverted attic room that has partial

inglenook fireplace and there’s more room

flooring and offers yet more versatility.

For full details contact: Savills • 01580 720 161 • www.savills.co.uk MARCH 2015

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

FABULOUS PARK VIEWS

HAVING BEEN GRADE II listed for

On the ground floor there’s a sitting room,

its historical and architectural interest,

dining room and drawing room, from which

23 Calverley Park is an important part of

you can step onto the terrace. Through a

Tunbridge Wells’ heritage and is in one of the

butler’s pantry you’ll find the stunning kitchen/

town’s most prestigious addresses. While

breakfast room, with access to the garden, a

retaining its elegant Regency features, the

separate pantry and a study beyond. A

property has been significantly updated to

magnificent cinema room is found on the

offer the perfect blend of past and present.

lower ground floor, along with a games room,

After approaching the house via an arched entrance into Calverley Park, you’ll arrive at a parking area and a detached garage with a

wine cellar, bike store, utility room and cloakroom. The master bedroom on the first floor has an

stacking system, allowing two cars to be parked

en suite bathroom; plus, there are two further

vertically. Once inside, you’ll discover spacious

bedrooms, a shower room and a separate

rooms with real historical charm, where you’ll

WC. The last two bedrooms and a second

love entertaining friends and family.

bathroom are arranged on the second floor.

For full details contact: Knight Frank • 01892 515 035 • www.knightfrank.co.uk 126

MARCH 2015

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

SECURITY

Property: Grade II listed detached house Location: 23 Calverley Park, Tunbridge Wells, Kent Price: ÂŁ2.85million Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 2 plus shower room & WCs Extras: Cinema room, games room, wine cellar, detached garage with car stacking system, extensive parking, double entrance from either Calverley Park or Prospect Road, listed building consent to remodel first floor en suite facilities Best bits: While being located within walking distance of the High Street and mainline railway station, this property has beautiful grounds with lots of attractive features and views towards the mature trees of Calverley Park. Highlights include a secluded seating area with a water feature, a large raised terrace and a walkway with period railings linking the rear and front gardens.

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PLANNING DECISION NOTICE

Description: Good use of underdeveloped land Type:

Any size and number of units

Location:

Anywhere in the South East

If you have been refused planning permission for what on the face of it would seem a reasonable application, SJD Projects may be able to assist. Through our network of developers and investors, we have been instrumental in achieving planning on sites that otherwise have not achieved their full potential. For a no obligation assessment please contact our offices on our freephone number 0845 456 8969.

Mobile: 0773 951 4350 Website: sjd-projects.com

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lAND Ill DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANTS

Freephone: 0845 456 8969 Email: steve@sjd-projects.com

19/02/2015 11:12

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

SECURITY

Property: St Denys Lodge, detached Victorian house Location: Eridge Lane, Rotherfield, East Sussex Guide price: £1.75million Bedrooms: 6 Bathrooms: 2 plus shower room & WC Land: About 17.5 acres Extras: Attic rooms, detached four-car garage, stable block, grass tennis lawn, paddock, fields, vegetable plot Best bits: Those who dream of owning their own horses are in luck with this property – in the extensive grounds there is a stable block, tack room and paddock with its own access to the road, with three further fields beyond.

LODGE IN THE COUNTRY

Beautiful rural views are among the many assets of this late Victorian property on the outskirts of Rotherfield

SET IN AN ENVIABLE location with

Those who dream of a generous farmhouse

delightful gardens and outlooks across the

kitchen will love the hub of this property – the

surrounding countryside, St Denys Lodge is a

kitchen/breakfast room boasts an oil fired Aga

substantial property with plenty to offer. The

and built-in dresser units, with steps leading

versatile accommodation has potential to

down to the handy utility room, cloakroom and

create an annexe, which would be useful for

boiler room. A garden room and shower room

creating privacy for staff or family members,

complete the ground floor layout.

plus the house retains many period features such as open fireplaces and sash windows. There’s a wood burning stove in the sitting

Upstairs, the occupants of the master bedroom can enjoy fantastic views over the gardens and countryside, while the en suite bathroom

room, while a marble fireplace is a focal point

overlooks the rear of the property. Also on the

of the double aspect drawing room. In the

first floor there are three more double bedrooms,

dining room, which is also double aspect,

a box room and a bathroom, plus two further

there’s a large bay window overlooking the

bedrooms that are accessed by a half-landing and

tennis lawn.

another set of stairs to the kitchen.

For full details contact: Batcheller Monkhouse • 01892 512 020 • www.batchellermonkhouse.com MARCH 2015

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

SECURITY

Property: Hawksden Forge, Grade II listed house Location: Witherenden Road, Mayfield, East Sussex Guide price: £835,000 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 1 plus shower room Land: About 0.92 acre Extras: Double garage, barn incorporating workshop and stores, terrace, vegetable garden, pond Best bits: Hawksden Forge retains its period charm with a wealth of attractive features – these include inglenook fireplaces, exposed oak beams, oak framed leaded light windows, wide oak floorboards, drop latch doors and vaulted ceilings in the bedrooms.

SPLENDID HAWK’S EYE VIEWS

Enjoy picturesque rural vistas at this Grade II listed house near Mayfield

COMBINING ITS 17TH CENTURY

garden in the breakfast room, while the

heritage with a stunning rural setting just

adjacent kitchen benefits from a two-

a couple of miles from the village of

oven electric Aga.

Mayfield, Hawksden Forge is a

Upstairs, one of the double bedrooms

quintessential English country house.

has exposed floorboards and a

Some of the rooms are double aspect,

woodburner in the inglenook fireplace.

giving you views of its own secluded

The master bedroom enjoys the use of

grounds and the surrounding countryside.

an en suite shower room and has an

A shared driveway wends its way

interconnecting opening to the second

through woodland towards the house,

bedroom, currently disused. A single

where an oak front door welcomes you.

bedroom overlooking woodland and a

An inglenook fireplace with bressumer

family bathroom with a roll top bath

beam is a real feature of the double

complete the first floor.

aspect drawing room and from the sitting

Outside, the terrace is a delightful place

room, you can step directly onto the

from which to enjoy the pretty gardens

terrace. There’s also a handy door to the

and country views beyond.

For full details contact: Savills • 01892 507 000 • www.savills.com MARCH 2015

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bathrooms by

Ripples

12 Union Square The Pantiles Tunbridge Wells TN4 8~E Tel 01892 617462 Brighton 01273 841228 Reigate 01737 226450 Award winning showrooms nationwide

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www.ripples.ltd.uk

19/02/2015 11:14

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

SECURITY

Property: Winfield House, Grade II listed Regency house Location: Crouch, near Sevenoaks, Kent Price: £2.65million Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 5 plus WCs Land: About 1.33 acres Extras: Orangery, cellar with wine store, store rooms, coach house with cinema, garage and storage, folly, tennis court, electric gates, carriage driveway, extensive veranda Best bits: The beautifully landscaped gardens are a real feature of Winfield House, with extensive lawns, a charming sandstone and brick folly and a tennis court. Stunning southerly views of the Bourne Valley can be enjoyed as you stroll around the grounds.

PERIOD LIVING IN REGENCY STYLE

Step back in time to a more graceful age at this Grade II listed country house in Crouch

BELIEVED TO DATE from the mid-19th century, Winfield House is a beautifully

doors opening to the veranda. The bespoke kitchen/breakfast room has

presented property that offers all the most

an Aga, while the newly added orangery

elegant features of the classical Regency

provides a wonderful space to entertain

style. Highlights include period features

and enjoy views of the garden. A wood

such as spacious rooms, high ceilings, sash

burner makes the nearby family room feel

windows with shutters, cornice and ceiling

really cosy and it’s easy to pop down the

roses, and the original farm bell and plaque

stairs to select a tipple from the cellar wine

dated 1841.

store.

With its limestone tiled floor, the

Upstairs, all five bedrooms have en suite

attractive entrance hall welcomes you into

bathrooms; the master suite also benefits

this light and airy home. A superb Wallace/

from a dressing room.

Webster patterned cast iron fireplace with

Out in the well-tended grounds, you’ll

clean air system is a feature of the double

find a coach house that comprises a

aspect drawing room. Both this room and

garage, a well-appointed cinema room and

the double aspect dining room have French

stairs to a storage room above.

For full details contact: Knight Frank • 01732 744 477 • www.knightfrank.co.uk MARCH 2015

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

Property: The Stacks, detached 1920s house Location: Catts Hill, Crowborough, East Sussex Guide price: £770,000 Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 1 plus shower room & WC Extras: Detached double garage, conservatory, utility room, shed, pergola, patio Best bits: From the dining room, which has a built-in shelved cupboard, bi-fold doors open to the wood framed, double glazed conservatory – making this a superb space for entertaining guests, whatever the weather.

STACKS OF CHARACTER

A gorgeous setting and charming features make this home in Crowborough a real find

SITUATED IN A PRIVATE close with

Here you’ll find the grounds mostly laid to

just five other properties, The Stacks

lawn, with a patio, pergola and small

enjoys a fantastic position within the High

timber Wendy house that children will

Weald Area of Outstanding Natural

love to play in.

Beauty. The house was built in the late

From the entrance hall you can step

1920s in Sussex farmhouse style and has

into the fantastic double aspect living

a number of charming features, such as

room, with its brick fireplace and beamed

leaded light casement windows. Later

ceiling, along with the dining room and

additions have helped to create a

conservatory. The useful utility room has

generous and characterful family home

a sink and space for a washing machine

with delightful gardens.

and tumble dryer, which means you can

The property is approached via a shared drive, leading to a detached double garage with electrically operated doors.

simply enjoy cooking in the spacious kitchen/breakfast room. Upstairs there are four bedrooms – two

Visitors will love the pretty lych gate that

of which are double aspect and have

gives entrance to the front garden, while

fitted wardrobes – served by a bathroom

the rear garden enjoys a southerly aspect.

and a shower room.

For full details contact: Bracketts • 01892 533 733 • www.bracketts.co.uk 134

MARCH 2015

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01892 838363 carol@fireflyproperties.co.uk www.fireflyproperties.co.uk

new home with Firefly this Spring!

£559.995 Character Home 4 Bedrooms . 2 receptions Cranbrook School Catchment EPC E

MATFIELD £695,000 4 Bedroom detached character home EPCD

YALDING (upper ground) £649,995 Fabulous Grade lllisted home Must be viewed to fully appreciate!

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4 bedrooms. 3 receptions Many character features

19/02/2015 10:43

Foresters .{ Ulll

HEATH FIELD

HEATHFIELD

11 spacious contempornry family home on a private brick paved cui de sac JuSt a moment's stroll from open countryside ond shops & amemlles of the town centre Kitchen breakfast room openong up onto new conservatory 4 bathrooms & 7 bedrooms. one currently used as a conema room £1ectrocally eperated gates gove access to a brick paved wrth parkong for several vehocles & double garage The rear garden os professoonalty landscaped and oncludes a sun trap patoo. formal lower !<own lower area woth open log cabon houSing sauna & hot-tub No onward Chaon £699.950

A hoghly ondMdual and unusual4 bednoom detached property datong back to 17th Century, believed lo have been a former coachmg Inn Provate garden woth garage and off road parkmg Beautolutly presented renovated accommodatoon woth character features to onctude a brock vaulled cellar and sun balcony Recently re-fitted Kitchen. donong room and 2 further receptoon rooms. Four double bedrooms. en suote bathroom. separate Shower room Pnvate gardens to the sode woth garage and off road parkong Pnce Guode (410.000- (630.000

VINES CROSS

A Vtetonan 3 bedroom cottage. forme<ly the headmaSier's home. Situated on the centre of thos popularlllllagedose to UoevoUagewothVJeWS to the oear """'open countryside In need of some updatong, the accommodatiOn composes entrance hall lounge woth sash bay "'ndow to the front and open fire. separate domng room and lotchen woth larder Staors lead•ng to 3 bedrooms & bathroom Walled gardens to the rearwolh lovely views over open countrysde. Outbuoldongs onclude a summerloouse. greenhoose & pottong shed. Parking & garage lo the sode. Cl79.950

WINDMILL HILL A beautofutly presented 2 bednoom looked-detached

bungalow m a sem1-rurallocatton overlookmg rollmg Sussex countrysode. Features onclude coved ce.lmgs and oak ftoorong Spacoous lounge/doner woth wood burnong stove. openong onto conservatory Modern kotchen and shower room Mature gardens. ontegral garage woth parkong for several vehocles. Modern elect roe wet system central healing. Walkmg dostance to the votlage woth ots post office and general stores. doctors. publoc house and garage £279.950

BROAD OAK

A spacoous extended 4 bedroom semo-detached famoly home sotuated on the centre of Broad Oak wothon easy walkong dostance of all voUage amenotoes The accommodallon compnses entrance hall. lounge. separate donong room. ground floor bedroom Mreceptoon noom. htted kttchen woth gas fored Rayburn. uhloty & cloakroom Spacoous first floor landmg leadong to 2 further bedrooms and a spacious famoly bathroom. 2nd ltoor master bedroom woth range of buolHn wardrobes Double glazong and gas fired heatong. (295,0000

CHIDDINGLY A Charmong detached, former farmworker's cottage Situated on an odylhc rurallocatoon. a short dostance from the pretty votlage of Choddongty woth ots stores and popula•· onn rhe accommodatoon comproses 3 bedrooms & bathroom. lounge. kotchen and cellar Set on gardens and orchard of approx I acne lunmeasured) at £599.950 or woth the optoon for a total ol 3 acres of land for offers (650.000

RUSHLAKE GREEN A Grade 11 Losted semo detached cottage believed to date back to the 15th century. sotuated on a onoque posohon overlookong the green on thos sought after VIllage Front reception room goving access to sitting room at the near W>th kotchcn and shower room The first floor compnses two bedrooms. currently open plan. With cloakroom and access to loft anea at the rear whoch woe understand from our clients is not tosted and thenefone. ideal for extcnsoon subJect to PP Pretty South facong rear garden woth far reachong voews £295.000

HERSTMONCEUX

11 most attractove & spacoous grade lllosted Georgoan 5 Bedroom property s•luated on the heart of thos popular votlage Brommong with character woth solid oak floors. exposed beams, origonal fireplaces etc The property has the added bonus of a large double fronted shop achievong a good rental oncome The gardens ane toered and extend to some 150ft at the rear woth small orchard area. w9rkshop & garage together woth off street parkong Offers •n the regoon of (599.000

Tel 01435 865477 17 High St, Heathfield, E.Sussex, TN21 8LU info!aforestersxl.com

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19/02/2015 10:44

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

SECURITY

Property: Cedar Lodge, detached house Location: Thorntree Close, Heathfield, East Sussex Price: Offers in region of £699,950 Bedrooms: 7 Bathrooms: 2 plus 2 shower rooms & WC Extras: Conservatory, double garage, parking for several vehicles, electric gates, landscaped gardens, patio, sauna, hot tub, children’s play area Best bits: Ideal for entertaining on warm summer days, the rear garden is a real delight – there’s a formal garden, a large decked area, a children’s wooden play area and an illuminated walkway. In the log cabin you’ll find a hot tub and sauna, plus you can step directly through double doors from the kitchen to the terrace and barbecue area.

MODERN HOME WITH FORMAL GARDEN

SET IN A PRIVATE, brick paved cul-desac close to both the town’s amenities

You can enjoy the garden whatever

and open countryside, Cedar Lodge is a

the weather, thanks to the gas effect

contemporary family home with plenty of

wood burner in the new oak-floored

generous living space.

conservatory.

From the impressive entrance hall you

This contemporary house in Heathfield comes with a sauna and hot tub in the attractive grounds

disturbed by the appliances.

From the spacious first floor landing you

can access the dining room, study,

can step into four bedrooms – two of

cloakroom and double aspect drawing

which have en suite facilities – and a

room, which has French doors to the

family bathroom. The master bedroom

terrace and a gas effect fire with a

also has the use of a useful dressing

dressed stone surround. There’s plenty of

room with double built-in wardrobes.

worktop space in the attractive kitchen,

Three bedrooms and a shower room

plus in the breakfast area, there are

make up the second floor; one of the

double doors opening to the garden.

rooms is currently used as a cinema

With the fitted washing machine and

and has bespoke fitted cabinet

tumble dryer located in the utility room,

housing for a drop-down projector

you can relax in the kitchen without being

screen and speakers.

For full details contact: Foresters XL • 01435 865 477 • www.forestersxl.com MARCH 2015

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19/02/2015 12:18

Ancroft is a handsome detached family house with sweeping gravel drive located in one of the finest privale roads in lhe Tunbridge Wells area.

An attractive detached family house located in this highly convenient road close to the village centre with the benefrt of a beautiful mature garden.

A well presented four bedroom mid-terraced house set over three storeys, superbly located within easy walking distance to Tunbridge Wells centre and train station.

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19/02/2015 10:45

01892 525522

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A tastefully appointed spacious ground noor apartment located close to Tunbridge Wells town centre, and within walking distance of the station. The property benefits from its own garden and parking.

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A spacious five bedroom detached family house located on the outskirts of East Peckham with beautiful views over the local countryside.

Mulberry House is an attractive Grade I! listed property located in the heart of this quintessential English village surrounded by orchards and farmland.

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andrewsonline.co.uk lj /andrewsonline ~ @andrewsonline

OlllSTON ROAD,

TNli

£1,000 PCM

This top floor conversion apartment, offering over 1300 square feet of accommodation, is within two thirds of a mile of the mainline station. The apartment has gas central heating and replacement double glazing, three double bedrooms and a generous entra nce hall. The fitted kitchen is complimented by a utility/store room and t he main living room extends to 20'. There are well tended communa l gardens and residents' off road parking. With views over Tun bridge Wells, this apartment must be viewed to appreciate its individuality. Ene•.n. ~cie 1c~ Ra'ing E

ROCiiDALE ROAD, TNl

£995PCM

LET ON THE 1ST VIEWING- SIMILAR REQUIRED Three double bedroom, mid terrace house located 0.7 miles from High Brooms tra in station and 1 mile from the town centre. The property offers flexible accommodation over three floors and comprises entrance hall, double bedroom or second reception room and bathroom w it h electric shower over the bath to the entrance level. The first floor offers two double bedrooms, w hile to the lower ground floor there is the kitchen/diner; utility room and lounge w ith door leading to the rear courtyard garden. En •ry Eificten< 1 Rat 11g. E

ASI- EN DEN WJ<LK TN2

£995 ?C'I'l

Three bedroom semi-detached house less t han t hree quarters of a mile from High Brooms station and offering access to A21. The accommodation comprises lounge, through dining room and kitchen with appliances while upstairs there are two double bedrooms and a further single bedroom. The bathroom features a showe r over the bath. Other features include gas central heating, double glazed windows, drive and garage. The property is offered furnished or unfurnished, for a 6 month tenancy. En~>rg'J Efflctf' 1 -:y R?ti ·r

MAVFJElO POAD, T 4

£1,200 PCI\II

Newly refurbished penthouse apartment in a Victorian conversion less t han 3/4 of a mile f rom t he station. The second floor accommodation comprises entrance hall with tiled floor, newly fitted kitchen with integrated appliances, master bedroom with a deep walk-in cupboard, a second double bedroom, newly fitted bathroom with shower over the bath and a living room wit h feature fireplace. There is also an allocated off-road parking space to t he front. Early viewing is genuinely recomme nded to fully app reciate what is on offer. Enu~ EftJcte<1cy R, 11 ~· D

Tunbridge Wells 01892 525551 tunbridgewells.lets@andrewsonline.co.uk

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19/02/2015 10:46

ANDREWS

Well presented detached family home, tucked away in a cui-de-sac located between Bidborough and South borough. Gravel driveway, entrance hall, living room, dining room, kitchen, study, playroom, downstairs cloakroom & utility room lawned rear garden. Upstairs, there are S bedrooms and a family bathroom.

lovely detached family home in South borough with deep porch, reception hallway, 3 reception rooms with double sided log burner between, kitchen/breakfast room, rear hall, utility room & downstairs w/c, main bathroom and 4 bedrooms. Outside there is an enclosed rear garden, attached garage garden and driveway t o front. Call now to view.

Top floor purpose built apartment in gated private development with balcony overlooking park and lake. 2 doubl e bedrooms, bathroom and en-suite shower room and open plan living room with distinct kitchen area. For sale as a Buy-to-let (Renta l ÂŁ895 pcm). View soon! I

Detached family home situated in a cui-de-sac location to the north of Tonbridge. Comprising porch, en trance hall, 5 bedrooms, 3 receptions, kitchen, conservatory, u til ity room, garage and enclosed rear garden.

Tunbridge Wells 01892 515144 tunbridgewells@andrewsonline.co.uk

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19/02/2015 10:46

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Untitled-4 2

19/02/2015 10:47

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19/02/2015 10:48

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19/02/2015 10:48

Criers Lane, Five Ashes

Price: ÂŁ499,950 Free hold

A detached single roundel Oast house sttuated away from the main road in this pretty Sussex village offering spacious accommodation and an abundance o f character features including wood burning stoves and beams coupled with more modern conveniences to include modern kitchen and bathroom frtments. The property offers flexible accommodation with a beautiful reception room in the main roundel alongside a master bedroom with en-suite shower, 314 bedrooms, bright sitting room, family bathroom and cloakroom. There is a courtyard low maintenance garden to the rear and off road parking for three vehicles to the front. Viewing recommended. Energy Efficiency Rating: F.

rightmove........

Heathfield Office 1 01435 862211 heathfield@woodandpilcher.co.uk

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woodandpilcher.co.uk Untitled-4 2

19/02/2015 10:49

Jonas Drive, Wadhurst

Guide Price £410,000

Situated in a sought after vil lage location, this detached Two double bedroom Bungalow which is set in an elevated area is sure to appeal. Features include oak f looring, a wood burning stove, modern kitchen and shower room plus a landscaped garden to the rear and garage.

Montgomery Rd Tunbridge Wells Guide Price £235,000 - £250,000

High St Pembury Guide Price £450,000 - £500,000

A three bedroom terraced property located within 0 .7 mile radius of High Brooms main line station and 0.2 miles to the well regarded St Johns Primary school

Enjoy landscaped gardens this detached family home has to offer, situated in a village location under three miles from Royal Tunbridge Wells. Accommodation includes three bedrooms, lounge, dining room, conservatory with views over the garden, gated driveway and garage.

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19/02/2015 10:49

Connells

Albert Court

£850pcm

Stunning One Bedroom Spacious Apartment In sought after building. This property is done to a high standard throughout with modern fitted kitchen w ith space for table and chairs. nice size lounge with Juliet balcony overlooking wooded communal gardens .white suite bathroom and good size double bedroom with built in wardrobes. Wood effect laminate flooring throughout. Also benefiting from allocated parking This sought after apartment block is situated within easy access to Tun bridge wells town centre and all it has to offer.

Grantley Court

£1150pcm

Beautifully Presented Spacious Garden Flat. This fantastic Apartment is spacious throughout and benefits from a large bright lounge with patio doors to private garden, Two good sized double bedrooms, modern fitted kitchen with room for table and chairs and modern bathroom. The property is situated moments away from Tunbridge Wells main line station, making it a commuters dream

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Addison Road

£900pcm

Two Double Bedroom Modern Top Floor Apartment. Situated in the ever popular Connaught park development within a short stroll to High brooms main line station and local amenities in your door step. Property benefits from modern f itted kitchen and bathroom, two double bedrooms and allocated parking bay.

Cromwell Road

£850pcm

Newly decorated two double bedroom house. The property has been re decorated throughout and already benefits from modern fitted kitchen and modern bathroom. Downstairs you will find living room w ith feature fire place, separate d ining room. modern fitted kitchen w ith back door to garden and fami ly bathroom. Upstairs you will find two good size double bedrooms with built in wardrobes.

19/02/2015 10:49

Connells

Dunnings Road, East Grinstead

ÂŁ750,000

Situated in a sem i rura l setting close to amen it ies, Streat field Place not on ly provides the opportunity for a new lifesty le it also combines an ideal location for a perfect home. Th is exquisitely finished 5 bedroom 4 bathroom detached home inc ludes carpets, f looring, garage and parking, with the focus on high specification and attention to deta il. This stunning home is ready for immed iate occupation.

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19/02/2015 10:50

Beyond y our expectations w...,.w,hamptol"s <;Q.I..

T-~AMPTONS

INTERNATIONAL

Had low, Tonbridge, Kent- ÂŁ1,250,000 Freehold

Believed to date back to the 1840's is this five bedroom twin roundel oast house set within 1.7 acres. Located close the popular village ofHadlow and town of Tonbridge. EPC E

Westerham, Kent- ÂŁ1,100,000Freehold

Amodem link detached four bedroom family home, located on the outskirts of the sought-after Westerham, within a gated development overlooking S acres of parkland andWesterham Golf Club. EPCC

Sevenoaks Office

Sales. 01732 423 102

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sevenoaks@hamptons-int.com

19/02/2015 10:51

T-~AMPTONS

Beyond y our e>tpectations www.hamptol't co.uk

INTERNATIONAL

Tunbridge Wells £795,000

Tunbridge Wells £675,000

Deceptively spacious 4 bedroom derached family house si tua ted less than a mile from the famous Pantiles and with far reaching views across the town. EPC: D

An exceptionallyspacious 2 bedroom apartment on the ground floor of this fine Victorian house and has the great benefit of its own large garden and garage. EPC: E

!SALE AGREED .... . ~

Tunbridge Wells£650,000

Frant £745,000

Set in a very sought after part oft he town a rrulydelightful4 bedroom Vicrorian semi detached house wil h excellent fami ly accommodal ion.

A unique and individual detached 3 bedroom former lodge house situated in a sought after private park within Franl with walled gardens. EPC: D

EPC:E

Tunbnd_ge W~lsO ffice Sales. 01892 597607

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tunbridgewells@hamptons-int.com

19/02/2015 10:54

._ rightmove

Zoopla.co.uk @ Primelocation.com Smarter property search

maatOnline

THE SUNDAY TIMES

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Homes& Property COUNTRY LIFE

We will market your property with the strongest online exposure. Not all agents market properties in the same way. We work with all the leading property websites including Rightmove, Zoopla and PrimeLocation to ensure your property secures the most exposure and as a result, the best possible price. With 93% of customers beginning their property search online*, can you afford not to work with an agent that advertises on all the most popular websites? Contact us today on 020 7265 6595.

BARClAYS

Aol. "'Zoopla/PrimeLoca tion Figures 20I4

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TalkTalk Group

Y AMPTONS 11 1:'\TERI\ATIO~AI. www.hamptons.co.uk

19/02/2015 10:54

LISTED PROPERTY AND BARN WITH PlANNING BENENDEN, KENT Benenden and Cranbrook 2 miles; Staplehurst station 6.8 miles; Tunbridge Wells 16.3 miles • charming Grade 11 listed home in secluded gardens • 3 reception rooms • 5 bedrooms (2 attic) • 3 bath/shower rooms • 1 bedroom annexe • Cranbrook School Catchment (2015) • about 5.9 acres • 259 sq m (2,786 sq ft) • Annexe EPC=F

Savills Cranbrook Patrick Baily pbaily@savills.com

01580 720161

Guide £1.55 million Freehold

RURALLY SITUATED GRADE II LISTED FARMHOUSE BIDDENDEN, KENT Headcorn station 6 miles; Cranbrook 6 miles; Ashford International 12.2 miles • sought after rural location with south westerly views • 5 bedrooms • 4 reception rooms • 2 bathrooms • tennis court • Cranbrook School Catchment (2015) • gardens and paddocks • about 2 acres • 388 sq m (4, 180 sq ft)

Savills Cranbrook James Uoyd jlloyd@savills.com

01580 720161

Guide £1.25 million Freehold

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19/02/2015 10:55

GEORGIAN LISTED COUNTRY HOUSE WITH VIEWS PLAYDEN, EAST SUSSEX Rye 1.5 miles; Tenterden 10 miles; Ashford International 17 miles; London 62 miles + 3 reception rooms • 4 bedroom suites + heated indoor swimming pool + billiards room + office + garaging • attractive gardens + albout 35 acres + 435 sq m (4,680 sq ft)

Savills Cranbrook Patrick Baily pbaily@savills.com

01580 720161 Guide £1.95 million Freehold

CHARMING GRADE II LISTED FAMILY HOME MARDEN, KENT Marden and Staplehurst stations 2.6 miles; Maidstone 5.8 miles; Cranbrook 8.4 miles + located at the end of a country lane + 3 reception rooms + 6 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms + landscaped gardens with ponds • paddock and bluebell wood + garaging and stabling • about 5.5 acres • 368 sq m (3,956 sq ft)

Savills Cranbrook Sarah Simmonds ssimmonds@savills.com

01580 720161

Guide £1.295 million Freehold

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19/02/2015 10:55

SEVENOAKS, KENT

SHOREHAM, KENT

1st floor apartment + 0.3mls to High St + 0.8mls to station + 2 beds + about 1,806 sq ft + spacious reception room + attractive communal gardens + garage & store + EPC = C Guide £895,000

Semi-detached Victorian house + sought after village + 0.9mls- Shoreham station + detached 1 bed coach house + attractive gardens + 4 beds, 2 baths + parking + EPC =F Guide £850,000

Savills Sevenoaks dgrbrown@savills.com 01732 789700

Savills Sevenoaks djohnston@savills.com 01732 789700

SEVENOAKS, KENT

KEMSING, KENT

5 beds, 3 recaps + 1.6 miles to Otford station + accommodation of about 2,492 sq ft + swimming pool and sauna + total plot approx 0.3 acres + EPC = 0 Guide £875,000

Generous reception rooms + approx 2,231 sq ft of accommodation + 2.1 miles to Otford station + 4 beds, 2 baths + delightful secluded gardens + EPC = 0 Guide £795,000

Savills Sevenoaks dgrbrown@savills.com 01732 789700

Savills Sevenoaks ohodges@savills.com 01732 789700

TONBRIDGE,

K ENT 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms + 1.5 miles to Tonbridge station + landscaped garden + 2, 198 sq ft + summer house with hot tub + total plot approx 0.25 acres + EPC =D Guide £795,000

BRASTED ,

Savills Sevenoaks ohodges@savills.com 01732 789700

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KENT 2nd floor apartment within Grade II listed Georgian Mansion + delightful southerly views + 3 beds, 2 baths + about 1,566 sq ft + attractive communal gardens of approx 6.6 acres Guide £650,000

19/02/2015 10:56

EAST PECKHAM, KEN T

TONBRIDGE,

Superbly presented Grade llllsted barn - about 4,204 sq ft + separate detached Lodge + separate detached 3 bed cottage + pool complex + garage block + plot about 1.25 acres Guide £2.35 million

KENT Exceptional period family home with annexe + well located for schools, road and rail links + established gardens of about 1.4 acres + accommodation of about 8,000 sq ft + EPC = 0 Offers in excess of £2.25 million

Savills Sevenoaks rsmlth@savills.com 01732 789700

Savills Sevenoaks rsmith@savills.com 01732 789700

CHIDDINGSTONE, KENT Countryside views + popular village location + 4 beds, 3 receps + beautiful gardens + approx 2,431 sq ft of accommodation + total plot of approx 0.5 acres + EPC = E Guide £1.175 million

CROCKHAM HILL, KENT Grade lllisted period home + 5 beds, 4 receps + detached 2 bed annexe + heated swimming pool • secluded gardens + garaging & outbuildings + total plot about 3.2 acres Guide £1.695 million

Savills Sevenoaks dgrbrown@savills.com 01732 789700

Savills Sevenoaks rsmith@savills.com 01732 789700

DORMANSLAND,

Superb countryside views + 1.4mls to Ungfield MLS • 6 beds, 4 receps + accommodation of 4,500 plus sq ft + established south facing gardens + total plot of 2.14 acres + EPC = C Guide £1.65 million

CHIDDINGSTONE, KENT Popular rural location + 7.5 miles to Hildenborough station + rural views + excellent equestrian facilities + 6 beds, 3 receps + total area - 5.27 acres + EPC = E Guide £1.55 million

Savills Sevenoaks rsmlth@savills.com 01732 789700

Savills Sevenoaks rsmith@savills.com 01732 789700

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SURREY

19/02/2015 10:56

WELL PLACED FOR SCHOO LS AND STATIO NS T UNBRID GE WELLS, KENT Impressive family house + 4 reception rooms + kitchen/breakfast room + 6 bedrooms + under 1 mile to grammar schools + mature garden + 2,908 sq ft + detached garage block of 449 sq ft + about 0.5 acres + EPC=E

Savills Tunbridge Wells Uz DevaJI ldevaJI@savills.com

01892 507060 Guide ÂŁ1.2 million

Untitled-4 2

19/02/2015 10:57

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT Second floor apartment + open plan sitting room and dining area + 2 bedrooms with one en suite shower room + further bathroom

+ allocated parking space + EPC rating = B

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT Detached house • 4 bedrooms + kitchen/breakfast room + 2 reception rooms + conservatory • double garage • gardens + EPC rating =D

£1,500 pcm + £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply*

£2,400 pcm + £276 inc VAT one-off admln fee and other charges may apply*

Savills Tunbridge Wells kolander@savills.com 01892 507050

Savllls Tunbridge Wells bcard@savills.com 01892 507055

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT Victorian townhouse + 5 bedrooms + kitchen/breakfast room

T UNBRIDGE WELLS , KENT

• cellar • courtyard garden • EPC rating =F

5 bedrooms • open plan kitchen/breakfast room • 2 bathrooms and cloakroom + double garage • access to communal private park + EPC rating = E

£2,950 pcm + £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply*

£3,500 pcm + £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may appty•

Savills Tunbridge Wells kolander@savills.com 01892 507050

Savllls Tun bridge Wells kolander@savills.com 01892 507050

'£:36 inc VAT for each additional tenanVoccupanVguarantor reference where required.lnventory check out fee - charged at the end of or early tennination of the tenancy and the amount is dependent on the property size and whether furnished/unfurnished. For more details, visit www.savills.co.uklfees.

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19/02/2015 10:57

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19/02/2015 11:00

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19/02/2015 11:00

Sevenoaks A substantial and impressive palladian style house set in secluded gardens Set on the exclusive Wildernesse Estate. 4 reception rooms, 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms. Triple garage, heated swimming pool and pool house, landscaped gardens. EPC rating D. In a ll about 1.8 acres. Guide price: ÂŁ3,000,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/sevenoaks sevenoaks@knightfrank.com 01732 744477 (SEV140287}

Nr Plaxtol An excellent and attractive fa mily house with superb far- reaching views Built by renowed house builders Millwood Homes. 4 reception rooms, 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Detached triple garage, established gardens and grounds. EPC rating D. In all about 0.76 acre. Guide price: ÂŁ1,675,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/sevenoaks sevenoaks@knightfrank.com 01732 744477 (SEV140289)

Ci)nTheMarket Untitled-4 2

com

19/02/2015 11:01

Barnes Kingsnorth

NORIHTONBRIDGE £695,000 PEMBURY £470,000 LOCATED lN ffiGHLY SOUGHT AFTER ROAD, this substantial detached family hom~ SOUGHT AFTER CUL-DE-SAC. A 5 bedroom detached family home, dose to the offers generous & flexible accommodation with 4/5 bedrooms, 2/3 reception rooms, popular primary sd1ool, with tandem garage and driveway parking. Sitting room_ kitchen/breakfast room, study, bathroom & 2 en-suites. Double garage, parking & large sttuming kitchen/dining/family room with bi-fold doors to the garden, playroom_ utility ga.-dens. NO CHAIN EPC:C room, cloakroom, master bedroom with shower, 3 further double bedrooms, bedroom Apply Tonbridge 5/study and bathroom. EPC: D Apply Pembury

EAST PECKHAM £S79,9&J STYLISH BARN CONVERSION on village outskirts offering flexible & generously siZed rooms. Dining/reception hall.. living room w ith feature me7•.zanine level, contempora.-y styled kitch('n, 4 bedrooms and super bathrooms. Enclosed courtyard garden and parking. EPC:C Apply Tonbridge

SOurn TONBRIDGE £625,000 JMMACULATELY PRESENTED modem family home with spacious & well plannt'<l accommodation. StunniJ1g 'Zl' kitd1en/d ining room, sitting room, stt1dy, tv/family room and utility. Four double bedrooms, en-suite shower and family bathroom. Double g=ge & landscaped garden. EPC: D Apply Tonbridge

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

1'UNBRIDCE WELLS

CENTRAL LOCAIION WITH PAll.KINC. Conveniently located for the town centre and main line station, this super 3 storey town house has 4 double bedrooms and views to the front. Apply Pembury

Tonbridge01732 771616 e. tonbridge@bkea.co.uk

Residential Sales & Lettings Untitled-4 2

SALE AGREED

SIMILAR PROPERTIES URGENTIYREQUIRED FOR WAITING BUYERS

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

www. bkestateagents.com 19/02/2015 11:01

(~ RICS TON BRIDGE OFFIC TUNBRIOGEWELL

Tel: 0 1732 770588 --- -.- Tei: OI 892 5 15670

Guide Price £750,000 - £795,000 PEMBURY A substantial detached character house which has been considerably improved and extended by the current owners to provide a light and spacious family home with detached garage. EPC: D Tunbridge W ells 0 I 892 5 I 5670

Guide Price £450,000 - £475,000 ROTHERFIELD A charming Grade I! listed cottage situated in the heart of popular RotherfieldVillage w ith a wealth of period features including an lnglenook Fireplace and exposed ceiling ti mbers. Tunbrldge W ells 01892 515670

I I offices in Kent, Surrey, Sussex & London

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howardcundey.com 19/02/2015 11:02

GROOMBRIDGE I REGION £1.15

MILLION

Lovely substantial Victorian attached property with light and spacious rooms and attractive period features Drawing Room. Dining Room. Sitting Room. Study. Kitchen Breakfast Room. Master Bedroom. Dressing/Study Area. Guest Bedroom with En Suite Shower Room. 2 Further Bedrooms. 2 Family Bathrooms. 3 Attic Rooms. Driveway providing parking. Detached Garage. 0.34 acre plot. EPC APPLY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS OFFICE

Battle

Haywards Heath

Pulborough

Tunbridge Wells

London

01424 775577

01444 453181

01798 872081

01892 512020

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SALES & LETTINGS

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

Tunbridge Well s

Guide Price £1,15o.ooo Tunbridge Wells Guide Price £825,000 A substantial and fully refurbished Victorian townhouse in a central location A modern family house of over 2,000 sq ft within easy access of the town with annexe potential, walled garden and 6 parking spaces. centre with the great advantage of a private park

More properties like these required for a buoyant town market

Brenchley Offers in the region of £1,750,000 An enchanting Grade 11" listed country house with detached cottage situated within exquisite formal gardens and grounds. • 5 Receptions • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Cellar • 6 Double Bedrooms • 4 Bath/Shower Rooms· Large Attic • 2 Bedroom Cottage · Triple Open Cart Barn • Heated Swimming Pool with Pool House • Stable Block • Garden Outbuildings • In all about 3.32 acres • Further approx. 5.4 acres available

People Property Places Untitled-4 2

Tun bridge Wells

Guide Price £950,000- £970.000 A substantial 5 bedroom family house in a quiet location on the south side of Tunbridge Wells. • Spacious Entrance Hall • 3 Receptions • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Utility Room· 5 Bedrooms (2 En-Suite) • Family Bathroom • Integral Double Garage • Parking for several cars • Sloping Rear Garden • Far Reaching Views to the rear • EPC: D

Tunbridge Wells 01892 521700 tunwells@jackson-stops.co. uk

(i)nTheMarket corn

Lo<.:al &: Nauonal reach through a network of London&: Regional office

19/02/2015 11:03

EST 1900

n auction ring, Successfully selling, I plan 1ng & surveying for over 100 years

Lambert & Foster PART OF THE LOCAL LANDSCAPE

A professional service for all your property needs.

Because we know everyone shome is their castle. RIGS REGISTERED VALUERS. PROFESSIONALS IN PROBATE, TAXATION AND EXPERT WITNESS VALUATIONS.

Untitled-4 2

19/02/2015 11:04

"Makin8 Moves" Residential Sales I Residential Lettings I Property Management

&I!. 25 -

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27 Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 SAE

01892

614n7 sales@mcauleymiller.com lettings@mcauleymiller.com

19/02/2015 11:14

~ KNIGHTS WOOD ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS

NEW PHASE THE LANES - COMING SOON

The Lanes, the next phase of contemporary homes at Knights Wood, shortly to be released for sale. This exclusive collection of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes are set amongst tree-lined avenues, enveloped in over 205 acres of established woodland. Each home features the high level of specification and attention to detail that is fast becoming synonymous with this landmark development.

CALLNOWTO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST knightswood .co.uk

01892 800 580

Register your interest now to avoid disappointment! Prices from 拢295,000. Legal f ees paid on selected homes, ask for details.

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19/02/2015 11:13

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FOOD

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

LAST SUPPER A new dining experience has been launched in Tunbridge Wells, thanks to Last Word Suppers. Run by husband and wife team Hanna Sorrell and Mike Roberts, the new supper club offers exclusive

FLYING HIGH

local menus, individually crafted to suit each venue at which the meals are held. The first supper was hosted by coffee house Perk & Pearl in Grove Hill

Michelin starred restaurant

Road; last month’s event took place at The Velo

The Curlew has been named t

House, a café cum bike workshop in St Johns Road,

he Best Eating Experience in

where diners enjoyed local, seasonal produce that was sourced from within a 67-mile circular bicycle route of Tunbridge Wells. Paying £36 per person for five courses, guests were welcomed with a ‘Kentish Kir’ cocktail, served with canapés. The dinner began with a charcuterie plate, followed by a main course of slow-roasted lamb. Dessert was a celebration of apple flavours and the meal was rounded off with a selection of cheeses fro Burwash and Stonegate. Every course featured locally sourced ingredients from across the Weald. If you’d like to join in the fun, keep an eye on the Last Word Suppers website for details of their next event. www.lastwordsuppers.tumblr.com

Sussex by happy customers. The acclaimed eatery in Bodiam received the accolade at the Sussex Food and Drink Awards, seeing off competition from the Coach and Horses in Danehill and Zari’s Restaurant and Lounge in Crawley. Owners Mark and Sara Colley paid tribute to the hard work of their team, including Head Chef Michael Mealey and Manager Beata Winiarskaa. “What makes this award so special is that a central part of The Curlew’s philosophy has always been the use of local, seasonal produce,” Mark says. “Sussex is home to incredible producers who are, figuratively and literally, experts in their field. These producers work with, care for and nurture produce that compares to anywhere in the world. For anyone interested in food, Sussex is an

FREE FLAVOURS

incredibly exciting place to be at the moment. The award is made even more special to us because it was voted for

Clear your Saturday mornings for the rest of

purely by the public.”

the year – Biddenden Vineyards are now

www.thecurlewrestaurant.co.uk

offering free tours to get your weekend started in style. The guided experiences start at 10am, though the vineyards will be open from 9.45am for those who would like to buy tea or coffee in aid of their chosen charity, the RABI, which supports farming families. After you’ve looked around the 23-acre estate, you’ll be treated to tastings of all the vineyards’ wines, ciders and juices in the shop, where you can also browse their other tempting produce. www.biddendenvineyards.com MARCH 2015

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19/02/2015 12:32

A complementary glass of Fizz for all mothers who dine with us.

To Start Salmon ,_ Home cured, London Gin, Heritage Beetroot, Horseradish Chicken - Pressed, Wild Mushrooms, Grain Mustard Mayonnaise, Sourdough Onion - Soup, Kentish Ale, Blue Cheese Rarebit Cheese - Baked, Pomegranate, Rye Bread, Black Garlic, Bunched Thyme To Follow Beef "' Roast, Duck Fat Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables, Red Wine Gravy Cod - Poached, Olive Oil Mash, Baby Onions, Salsa Verde Sole "' Grilled, New Potatoes, Seaweed Butter, Preserved Lemons Pork ,_. Roast Belly, Potato Terrine, Spring Greens, Morel and Madeira Sauce To Finish Strawberry ,. . . Soup, Basil , Meringue, 8 year old balsamic Chocolate ,_. Delice, Pistachio, Crumble, Chocolate sorbet Apple "'Tart, Set Custard, Apple Sorbet, Mint Salad Cheese - British artisan cheese, crackers, chutney. Vegetarian menu available on request

£35 per person 5 - 14 Years £14.50 per person • Under 5's share free 12.5% discretionary service will be added to all bills, thank you .

Reservations 01892 530 501 At The Thnbridge WeUs Hotel we are proud to source the ingredients locally, supporting local businesses and small farmers. Our suppliers: A. FuJler Butchers, Sankey's Fishmongers

58 The Pantiles, Thnbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 STD

www .thetunbridgewellshotel.com Untitled-4 2

19/02/2015 11:16

THE LEICESTER ARMS HOTEL

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19/02/2015 11:17

PIZZA IS FIREZZA 11 FIREZZA PIZZA FOR LIFE

63 CALVERLEY ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

0 1892 !562!5 1 !5 WWW. TOWNHOUSETWELLS . COM

172

MARCH 2015

p172 SO TW_MARCH_Ads.indd 2

19/02/2015 12:50

ADVERTORIAL

THE SPA HOTEL

NO SOONER HAD 2015 begun, so too did

Spa overlooking the fabulous lakes. The

RECEPTION AND LOUNGE TRANSFORMED!

the renovations. January saw the total

gazebo can be viewed in all its glory at The

transformation of The Spa’s traditional and,

Spa’s Wedding Fayre on Sunday 1st March.

There’s lots going on at The Spa Hotel in Tunbridge Wells this year. With some beautiful makeovers and fabulous new spaces, the four-star luxury site is set to look even more stunning in the coming months. We find out how these changes have helped breathe new life into the venue

dare we say, tired Lounge area into a sleek, modern and totally delightful space. The

COMING SOON… THE SPA SUITE

design and layout was created by Georgie

While the design remains shrouded in

Scragg, Interior Designer for The Spa and

secrecy, we’ve been assured this suite will

Shareholder. Leaving the day-to-day running of

take hotel accommodation to another level.

the business to her brother Ant, Georgie is

Amazing views, luxurious fittings and a hot

making a name for herself as a designer and

tub… watch this space!

has caught the attention of industry professionals with this latest project.

The Spa Hotel Mount Ephraim,

OUTDOOR WEDDING VENUE

Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8XJ

The improvements don’t stop there, with the

01892 520 331

creation of a new gazebo licensed for civil

www.spahotel.co.uk

ceremonies, enabling couples to marry at The

reservations@spahotel.co.uk

MARCH 2015

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19/02/2015 12:46

SUNDAY 5TH & MONDAY 6TH APRIL 2015

THREE-COURSE CARVERY £22.50 per person, £11.25 for children under 12

(children under two free of charge)

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18/02/2015 16:57

FOOD

THE UNDERCOVER EATER 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 CAU in Tunbridge Wells

“We leave feeling both underwhelmed and uncomfortable about the whole experience”

A YEAR SINCE our first visit, shortly after it

and a brioche bun. It’s cooked medium rare

minutes to get the right drink brought over.

opened in the town, we’ve heard murmurings

and contains peppers, jalapenos and avocado.

The food takes about 25 to 30 minutes, so

that the CAU experience leaves a lot to be

To drink, I order a virgin mojito (£2.50) – which

for just one course and a drink we’re in the

desired, so, before heading to a gig in town,

is mistakenly brought with alcohol in so I have

restaurant for almost 90 minutes. Not the

Undercover Eater and obliging boyfriend head for

to send it back – and my partner tries one of

‘quick bite’ we’d hoped for.

a quick bite to eat to see whether the

the Argentinian lagers (£3.95). Everything is

restaurant’s reputation really is at stake (or steak).

nice, but not overwhelming.

LOCATION

PRICE

choose not to pay it by only putting down

The eatery has a prime spot on Mount

The price of the burger with a side is probably

enough cash to cover the cost of the meal

Pleasant Road; it’s right in the town centre

comparable with other restaurants in the

and are quickly accosted by a member of

and is close to the bars, shops and theatres.

town. However, things get a little more costly

staff, who comes over to the table to find

if you choose one of the ‘big plates’, which

out what the problems are. We’re told that

DÉCOR

are all between £11.95 and £15.25 and

the ‘gratuity charge’ isn’t really for service;

CAU describes its restaurants as ‘vibrant,

require you to order a side separately.

it’s for the ‘experience’ because CAU is one

THE ONLY THING IS... The gratuity charge, which isn’t optional. We

of only two open kitchen restaurants in

edgy and full of energy.’ The ultra-modern interior is a mix of clinical and industrial chic

STAFF

Tunbridge Wells, the other being

– the ceilings are lined with exposed pipes

When we first enter, we’re greeted by the

Thackeray’s. I think we’re expected to pay

and the chairs and booths are a bright white

manager who takes our coats and is more

the gratuity at this point, but we still refuse

plastic. It’s fairly spacious, although we’re

than helpful. However, the rest of the staff

and leave feeling both underwhelmed and

unfortunately seated on a small table right by

leave a lot to be desired. After being

uncomfortable about the whole experience.

the bar, where lots of people walk past but

pounced on as soon as we sit down and

nobody stops.

asking for a couple of minutes to make our

CAU

drinks choices, we then don’t see our

99-101 Mount Pleasant Road,

waitress again. It isn’t until the manager

Tunbridge Wells

As we’re due elsewhere, we just have one

comes over to see if we’ve had our drinks

TN1 1QG

course; both opting for the Latin Burger

order taken that we’re served and even then,

01892 528 456

(£11.95), which comes with a choice of side

the order is wrong and it takes another 10

www.cau-restaurants.com

MARCH 2015

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175

19/02/2015 12:29

n a previous life The Curlew Restaurant was a coaching inn where travellers rested their weary, mustachioed heads & warmed their spirits while on a ra in-sodden route from Hastings to London.

These days we are a modern British restaurant built on fom cornerstones: quality, locality, responsibility & seasonability. Alongside our a la carte menu, The Curlew's ' Short Menu' is available Tues-Fri ltmchtime & Tues-Thurs evenings. ÂŁ20 for Two Courses ÂŁ25 for Three Courses Open Tuesday to Sunday for Lunch & Dinner

WINNER OF "Sussex Eating Experience of the lear" in the Sussex Food & Drink Awards 2015

Awarded a Michelin Star in 2011 Junction Road, Bodiam, East Sussex, TN32 5UY

Untitled-4 2

19/02/2015 11:18

CITRUS CURED SAlMON

heritage beetroot, horseradish, vanilla

RESTAURANT

lngredieJlls

1llethod

SerYcs 6

Salmon Cure I. Trim the salmon, removing all the scales and belly (brown meat). 2. Pat dry with kitchen roll and place into a deep tray. 3. Mix all the dry curing ingredients together. 4. Juice and zest the lemon and orange, add to the curing mix. 5. Cover the salmon with the curing mix and place the covered tray in the fridge for 24 hours.

Salmon Cure 500g of salmon l lemon l orange lOg fennel seeds l bay leaf 3 juniper berries 3 black pepper corns 50g chervi l and dill stalks lOOg sugar I OOg table salt Salmon Rub lOg English mustard lOOg chopped chen il IOOg chopped dill Horseradish Cream 50g Creamed horseradish Zest and juice of I 2 lime 125g Double cream Salt and pepper Pickled Hcrita ~e Beetroot SOg Candied beetroot

IOOg Pickling liquor (50 150 watcr1rice wine' incgar. warmed" ith 25g sugar. spices) Vanilla Mayonnaise 3 egg yolks 200m l Rapeseed oil 50 m! White\\ ine vinegar l Vanilla pod seeds Salt and pepper Halfa lemon

Salmon Rub 1. Remove the salmon from tl1e tray and wipe otT Ute curing mix , then rinse under cold water. Pat dry with kitchen rolL 2. Sl ice the salmon lengthways down the centre so you have two rectangle shaped pieces. 3. Bmsh each piece with the Eng lish mustard and roll in the ~.:hopped herbs until the salmon is covered. Ro ll tigh tly in c ling film and place in the fridge. Pickled Heritage Beetroot 1. Cook the beetroot slowly in a pan of simmering water for two hours. 2. Allow to cool, then peel Utc beetroot, sl ice thutly and cut out rounds using a culler. 3. Cover wiili the pickling liquor and place in the fridge. Beetroot Crisps l. Using more of the thin rounds of beetroot, cover in rapesecd oil and Maldon sea salt. 2. Place the beetroot on a tray covered with parchment paper, leaving 1/2 inch space between each piece. 3. Bake at 11 Oc for 40 m ins, remove and cl aside to cool. Horseradish Cream I. Whisk the cream until you have soft peaks. 2. Add ilie horseradish, lime and seasoning. 3. Whisk further until it slightly thickens. 4. Place in the fridge. Vanilla Mayonnaise l. Whisk the eggs and vinegar in a bowl over boiling water until cooked. 2. Slowly whisk in the oil and vanilla seeds. 3. Add the lemon juice and season. Plating Cut two U1ick slices of the salmon and arrange on a plate wiili the pickled beetroot, crisps, a quenelle (approximately one teaspoon) of the horseradish cream and half a dozen small dots of the mayonnaise. Enjoy with a glass of white wine that isn' t too sharp -like an ltalian Verdicchio.

.ltichael ,\1ealey, Head Cbef Tbe Curlew, Bodiam.

Baby leaf salad to garn ish

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19/02/2015 11:18

FROM SUITE TO SWEET

light, perhaps too light - because the small

When Ashdown Park Hotel in Sussex announced their new pudding club evenings, we were pretty quick to take them up on their invite to sample their sweet supper. Charlie Bond had the arduous task of spending an evening eating, drinking and sleeping at the sumptuous country club…

overnight bag we’ve shared is not really worth

WHEN IT COMES to puddings, it’s safe to

At 375 square feet, it contains a four-poster

him carrying. Instead, he leads us up to our suite, called ‘Monkey Puzzle’ because of its view of the tree in the sprawling gardens outside. After explaining how the heating and facilities work, he leaves us to explore our room. I say ‘explore’ because the suite is huge.

The first thing that hits you when you enter

say I’m a fan. From gateaux and cheesecake to

the hotel reception is the vast space, with a

bed, a sitting area with sofas and umpteen

tart and strudel, I’m yet to discover a dessert I

sweeping staircase and high, stone ceilings.

places to store your belongings – and that’s all

don’t like. Which is why, when Ashdown Park

The second is the delightful smell of the roaring

before you get to the bathroom. Peeking inside

announced their new pudding club evenings

open fire, which provides an instant relief from

reveals a Jacuzzi bath and luxurious white

and asked me along to check out the menu,

the chilly evening outside. Previously a convent,

fluffy towels, with an array of Molton Brown

I was excited, albeit slightly concerned for the

the hotel’s stone architecture and stained glass

products to enhance the bathing experience.

welfare of my teeth after the sugar hit.

windows are just some of the charming

I could definitely get used to this.

The hotel, nestled in the heart of the Ashdown

features that draw you in.

The décor is elegant and old-fashioned, but

We check in and are told someone will be

far from dated. There’s a mix of floral patterns,

countryside. Boasting an 18-hole golf course,

with us shortly to collect our bags. A second

deep greens and light browns, which perfectly

a double AA rosette restaurant and a country

later, an immaculately dressed butler is at our

complement the cream walls and deep brown

club complete with spa facilities, you know that

side, ready to haul our luggage up the staircase

furniture. Refurbished in the 1990s, the rooms

whether you’re staying the night in one of their

to our room. “Are these yours?” he asks,

might not be contemporary but they’re

106 luxury rooms or enjoying afternoon tea on

gesturing to two large suitcases near to us.

definitely country-chic and very in keeping

the lawns, you’re in for a treat.

We then have to admit that we’ve travelled

with the hotel’s ethos and clientele.

Forest, is set in 186 acres of landscaped Sussex

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MARCH 2015

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19/02/2015 12:32

FOOD

We get dressed for dinner and head back

herbaceous Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc

down the staircase, feeling like we’re making a

from award winning New Zealand winemaker

grand entrance in a Hollywood movie. We’re

Alan McCorkindale. What comes next is the

directed to the West Lounge, where we’re due

first ‘pudding’ – poached duck egg atop

to meet General Manager Ben Booker and his

asparagus and Parma ham, with Hollandaise

wife Carina for pre-dinner drinks. We’re the

sauce and a parmesan crumble completing

first to arrive and are greeted warmly by the

the dish. The delicate mix of flavours and

pair, before a glass of Champagne is placed in

textures is delicious and although the crumble

our hands and to complement it, delicious

is subtle, the nod to pudding is noticeable.

canapés. I wonder out loud if I should stock up

Conversation turns to the hotel’s history and

on these savoury snacks before our descent

Ben regales us with tales of famous guests while

into decadent desserts commences, but Ben

our next wine (a 2011 Edmeades Zinfandel) is

reassures me that although the menu will

poured. We learn that Tom Cruise has frequented

involve a lot of sweet treats, it’s also ‘pudding

the hotel on occasion, when he visits East

themed’, so not all of it will be sugary. I’m

Grinstead for Scientology conventions.

intrigued, but also pleased I won’t have to

Out comes the next ‘pudding’, which is

resort to eating the ‘emergency’ peanuts I’ve

revealed with pizazz from under individual

got stashed upstairs.

silver cloches. On the plate lies an alternative

I don’t have to wait long to discover what’s

take on pie – two beef medallions with a small

in store, as a few moments later we’re

puff pastry lid, red onion preserve and a confit

ushered into one of the hotel’s private dining

potato bonbon. I can barely remember the

rooms - the Richard de Wych, where the

conversation while I’m consuming it – it’s so

attentive waiters begin pouring wine to

delicious I want to savour every mouthful.

accompany our first course, a delicious,

Even recalling the dish makes me salivate; it’s

“I say ‘explore’ because the suite is huge. At 375 square feet, it contains a four-poster bed, a sitting area with sofas and umpteen places to store your belongings – and that’s all before you get to the bathroom”

better than any pie I’ve ever tasted and that’s saying something (along with a penchant for puddings, I’m a pie fanatic). Then comes what we’ve been waiting for – the puddings themselves. There are four of them, with a glass of dessert wine, a 2002 Hungarian Tokaji, as accompaniment. Executive Chef Andrew Wilson personally delivers the dishes to us, explaining that the plan for the pudding club will be to ask guests to try all of the desserts and vote for their favourite. Then, the winner will stay on for the next event.

MARCH 2015

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19/02/2015 12:32

FOOD

After all the previous night’s food, you’d be forgiven for thinking it would be impossible to eat anything else but, never ones to turn down a challenge, the next morning my guest and I are once again sitting with a plate of food in front of us – this time in the form of breakfast in the Anderida restaurant, which overlooks the gardens and parkland outside. Once we’ve refuelled (not that we were ever empty), it’s time to check out and return to a They’re great British classics but I feel they’re

life less luxurious. On our way back through the

summer pudding, treacle tart with almond

lacking a little of the creative flair Andrew has

winding roads we spot a herd of deer crossing

cream, lemon meringue pie and steamed hot

so perfectly imparted on the other courses.

and we marvel at the views across the forest

After coffee and petit fours, which remain

and Sussex countryside. I’m already planning

Before us lies a sugary vision: strawberry

chocolate pudding. Andrew admits that the chocolate is his favourite, so I eagerly tuck into

mostly untouched due to our groaning

my return to this idyllic retreat – once I’ve lost

this first. Although it is delicious, I find it a little

waistbands, we retire to our suite, where,

all the weight I’ve gained from my pudding club

rich and can’t manage it all. Jugs of cream,

worried I won’t be able to sleep until the

gluttony, that is.

raspberry coulis and chocolate sauce are on

sugar has stopped surging around my body, I

the table but they’re a bit out of reach – having

take it upon myself to try out the Jacuzzi

Pudding Club is held at Ashdown Park on

a selection for each end of the table would

bath. It’s definitely relaxing and indulgent,

Friday April 24 and November 13 and costs

probably have saved passing the plate to and

although I have a brief panic when the

£59 per person. Charlie Bond stayed in a

fro and perhaps adding some chocolate sauce

bubbles I’ve

suite, priced from £375 per night.

to the hot sponge may have moistened it. But

added begin to swell above the sides.

I don’t have time to dwell on these things

Finally tired enough to sleep, we pull back

Ashdown Park Hotel and Country Club

because the next slice of something delightful

the bed covers and discover the softest

Wych Cross, near Forest Row, East Sussex

is coming my way.

mattress and pillows known to man. I’m

RH18 5JR

asleep in seconds, the coffee and cakes

01342 824 988

long forgotten.

www.ashdownpark.com

The treacle tart is the next dish to tantalise my tastebuds and, while I think it could do with being warm, it hits the spot. The almond cream is a nice addition, adding another level of flavour and a pleasant, creamy aftertaste. Next, I try the summer pudding, which is bursting with red fruits and fresh flavours. It’s a perfect texture and my guest concurs that it’s the best summer pudding he’s ever tasted. While I can’t finish my slice, he happily devours his before we move on to the last and final pudding – the lemon meringue pie. Perhaps because I have this last or perhaps because it’s exceptionally good, this is my favourite. The lemon is refreshing and zingy; the meringue light and fluffy, almost mousse-like. When voting at the end we all agree – the lemon is the clear winner. Of all the courses, however, I think the beef is my favourite. While the desserts are all delicious, they aren’t quite the pudding piece de resistance I was expecting.

180

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19/02/2015 11:19

ROSEMARY SHR_AGEKS COOKERY

S C H 0

DO YOU FIND LT DIFFICULT TO FIT lN A FUN ACTIVITY FOR YOURSELF OR WLTH YOUR FRIENDS DURING THE WEEK? Then why not dr·op off the childr·en in the moming and then embark on a cooker·y course that finishes in time for the school pick up. You willleamnew recipes and techniques for everyday cooking or· for· when entertaining, you will enjoy a two course meal with a glass of spar·kling wine and you can even invite a guest to join you for lunch*

Course rate is £125.00 per person, which includes a £s.oo voucher to spend in Shrager's Patisserie, or have exclusive use of one ofour workstationsfor four friends for £400.00 (saving £wo.oo)

Course Dates Thursday 26th February • Thursday 19th March • Thursday 23rd April • Thursday 21st May • Thursday 18th June -Course starts at 1o.ooam and finishes at approximately 2.oopm-

Telephone: 01892 528700 or Email: school@rosemaryshrager.com to book. • Should you wi.5h to invite your friend or partner to join you for lunch, please contact the school via em ail or telephone with your request. Lunch guest places are available for £20.00 but places are limited.

ROSEMARY SHR_AGEKS COOKERY

COOKERY COURSES • C H EF'S TABLE • PRIVATE PARTIES CORPORATE EVENTS

HOSTED MEETINGS

Chefs Table Exclusive Dining Experience with ever-changing menus created by Michelin trained chefs

One & Two Day Weekend Cookery Courses with Rosemary Shrager, John Rogers & lain More

Children & Family Courses • Private Celebrations Telephone: 01892 528700 Email: school@rosematyshrager.com

www.rosemaryshrager.corn

Untitled-4 2

19/02/2015 11:19

FOOD

THOUGHT FOR FOOD This month our own celebrity chef, Rosemary Shrager, reveals how you can make your own cheese with her quick and easy recipe

his year is proving to be extremely busy

that, when left out at room

already, with food festivals to attend all

temperature, is wonderfully creamy.

around the country. There are no less

We have the Winterdale

the church where they were baptised, now it’s more a celebration of motherhood.

than four Cake and Bake Shows this year, in

cheesemakers high up on the

I think it’s a great excuse to

Edinburgh, Harrogate, Manchester and

North Downs, who also use

spoil them.

London. I will be appearing at all four!

their own Friesian dairy cows to

The schools will be hard at it

make their wares. They’ve been

in art classes, making those

We must not forget The Pantiles’ Markets in

lovely cards. It’s always the

Tunbridge Wells, though; they happen every

winning awards for the hard

first and third weekend of the month. It’s great

cheese and also their Kentish

to meet local producers; I particularly love it

Camembert. I feel that if we have a

when the asparagus stall starts.

great product on our doorstep, let’s use it!

Exhibition at London Olympia on March 20

Why don’t you start making your own

and March 28. Do come along and say ‘hello’!

I do find the French cheese stall incredibly expensive, but it is a chance to see some

cheese? The best place to start is to make

unusual cheeses. I am a cheese lover and I

your own mozzarella and I’m going to tell you

believe we should be embracing our local

how easy it is to make.

cheeses. We have the delicious Kentish Blue

thought that counts. Finally, I will be at the Ideal Home

Don’t forget that it’s Mother’s Day on

and Kentish Bluebell cheeses made by

March 15. It’s always on the fourth Sunday in

Kingcott Cheese, who use milk from their own

Lent, exactly three weeks before Easter. The

dairy cows. The Kentish Blue is a mild blue

reasoning behind it was people used to visit

www.rosemaryshrager.com

Add the salt to the whey, mix well, add the curd with the strainer into the whey and bring up the heat to 57C. Remove and drain – if it’s not quite

MOZZARELLA RECIPE MAKES 2 X 250G BALLS APPROXIMATELY

4.5L fat milk

stretchy enough then place it back into the First, pour the milk into a large, wide saucepan

whey with the strainer for five minutes at

– a jam saucepan would be great – on a low

the same heat.

heat, about 13C. Add the citric acid and gently stir, bringing the heat up to 32C. Add the liquid rennet mix gently, this will

Draining will make it stretchy, so stretch the mozzarella into a long piece, stretch and stretch again, continuing for about five

coagulate the proteins. Now leave for about five

minutes. Now form it into two balls and put

minutes (it might need a bit longer if just too soft).

it into some iced water for 30 minutes.

Then gently cut the curds into parable lines

Now you have your own mozzarella. I love

1 ½ teaspoons citric acid

one way, now do the other way. You will see

to eat it with just tomatoes, coarse sea salt

¼ teaspoon liquid rennet

the whey is yellowish in colour.

and black pepper.

2 teaspoons salt (A digital thermometer is a must)

Heat the saucepan again gently to 40C,

As long as you have all the ingredients you

as this will separate the curd from the whey. Very

can make mozzarella in 45 minutes. At my

carefully, take a spoon of curd and press it

school up in North Yorkshire, we used to

against the side, getting rid of any excess whey,

have Wensleydale cheese made in 30

then put it into a strainer. Repeat until finished.

minutes, it was great to see.

MARCH 2015

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183

19/02/2015 12:30

Enjoy some you time Experience one of our fantastic courses. From Aromatherapy to Zumba, there's something waiting for you. For more information visit kentadulteducation.co.uk one of our local Adult Education Centres or call 0845 606 5606

ooe Kent

County Council ke<~t.gov.uk

Kent Adutt Education is part of Communtty Learning and Sl<ills

Bringing learning to life

Untitled-4 2

19/02/2015 11:20

E D U C AT I O N

EDUCATION NEWS WE TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE WORLD OF EDUCATION

n BACK TO SCHOOL A former pupil of St Leonards Mayfield School has been appointed Chairman of Governors. Having been a Governor since June 2012, and as an ‘Old Cornelian’, Chantal Davies is very well acquainted with the school and has acted as Chair of the Governors’ Finance Committee for the past year. Married to former Government minister, Quentin Davies, who is now a peer in the House of Lords, Lady Davies enjoyed a 15-year career in

n BUCKING THE TREND

international banking; she then

Schools in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge have continued to excel, despite Kent seeing the first drop

as an MP, working in the House of

in GCSE results for nine years.

Commons for over 20 years. She

assisted her husband in his duties

Last year 58% of the county’s students achieved five GCSEs at grade A* to C – a drop from 62% in 2013. Nationally, there was a decrease of about 10%, with just 53% of pupils across England reaching that target. In West Kent, The Skinners’ School in Tunbridge Wells headed up the league table with 100% of students

is also Treasurer of the Lord Kitchener National Memorial Fund. Speaking of her delight at her

achieving the required grades. Also in the top 10 were The Judd School and Weald of Kent Grammar School,

appointment, Lady Davies says

both with 99%, Tonbridge Grammar School and Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School at 97%, Tunbridge

she looks forward to working

Wells Grammar School for Boys with 93% and Combe Bank School in Sundridge with 84%.

with the Headmistress, Antonia Beary and her team in the future. “I remain very grateful for my own education at Mayfield all those years ago and am keen to see future generations of girls continue to go out into the world with a truly rounded education, the confidence to succeed in the field of their choice and the desire to make a positive contribution to society.”

n SCHOOL SMARTIES

deeds and for every one they collected 20p in an

Good deeds abounded at the Skippers School in

empty Smarties tube. “We are delighted with the

Mayfield, when they challenged their students

efforts of our pupils in raising these funds for such

to be charitable for charity. Over £300 was raised

a worthy cause,” says Headmaster, Tim Lewis.

for Hambaree for Kenya, a charity providing

“It has been great to hear about the wide range of

safe houses for children in the African country.

good deeds that the children have been carrying

Between them the students undertook 1,800 good

out as part of this challenge.”

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THE

EDUCATION GUIDE

SPRING 2015 IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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THE PROFESSIONAL PROPERTY SEARCH AGENCY THAT OFFERS EXPERT ADVICE TO CLIENTS PURCHASING AND RENTING HOMES IN KENT "There can be few Buying Agents in Kent like Helen Turner of Property Turner, that have both the knowledge and skill set that enables them to make things happen in their respective market We have a number of sales that have proceeded very smoothly thanks to Property Turner; long may this continue." A Harwood. Partner, Knight Frank

Property Turner has excellent local knowledge, unrivalled market knowledge and longstanding relationship with the agents. Property Turner will listen to the brief, inspect every property which may be suitable including those not on the open market, draw up a shortlist, accompany clients on appropriate inspections and negotiate on behalf of our clients.

"Helen was incredibly helpful in helping me refine my needs, and in finding me a perfect new house. She was always straightforward to deal with, listened carefully to my ideas, sorted out a short Jist of places to view and took me round to them. I would recommend her to anyone looking for a house in this area. Or Peter Fairclough

Helen Turner qualified as a Chartered Surveyor and grew up in The Weald of Kent. Contact her for an informal chat about your property needs.

"When we wanted to sell our house we chose to speak to Search Agent Helen Turner as we knew she was discreet, professional and had clients who would not mess us around. She had buyers looking in the area for a family house such as ours and the whole process went very smoothly. Thank you very much." Neil & Sophie Mancais

01580 714214

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07816 833 933

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SCHOOLS

THE EDUCATION GUIDE SPRING 2015

As your child embarks on their exciting journey into the world of education, or moves on to the next stage, there is much to look forward to for both pupils and parents. But ensuring you choose the right school for your child is a huge responsibility, as there are so many diverse factors to consider. In our indispensable guide, you’ll meet leading local schools and find out how they could provide the perfect foundation for your child’s bright future We all want our children to do well academically

broadened in all areas of life. The very best

and craft the building blocks for a fulfilling career

schools will have the facilities and commitment

when they are adults. However, league tables

to uncover their sporting, musical or creative

are not the only important element to weigh up

talents, while offering the pastoral care that

when choosing the best school for your son or

helps your child to develop into a confident,

daughter. Personal and social development is a

responsible young person who enjoys

vital part of school life and selecting the

rewarding friendships.

establishment whose ethos perfectly fits with

In the following pages, head teachers from

yours as parents can be a demanding task.

across the area talk about the ways in which

You’ll want to know that not only is your

they’re helping to shape the next generation.

child receiving the highest quality of education

With our help, you’ll have the chance to gain

and making the most of their academic

valuable insights into school life, both in and

potential, but also that their horizons are being

out of the classroom.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

The Weald is home to some of the country’s most prestigious schools, but you’ll need to live in a relevant catchment area if you wish your child to attend one of these top quality institutions. If you’re looking to buy a property, where can you make your money go furthest while giving your child the best educational opportunities? We spoke to esteemed local estate agents and gave them three challenging scenarios: Family One have a budget of £1million to spend on a house with at least four bedrooms, three reception rooms and some ancillary accommodation, while Family Two are looking for three bedrooms and a large garden for up to £750,000. Finally, Family Three need three bedrooms, plus off-road parking is a must, all for no more than £500,000. Where should each family be looking for best value for money? Read on to find out...

GEORGE BERRY PARTNER/OFFICE HEAD KNIGHT FRANK SEVENOAKS

FAMILY ONE Given the demand for properties like this, it’s unlikely that all of the

01732 774 447 www.knightfrank.co.uk/sevenoaks

distance of Tonbridge mainline station and the renowned grammar and state secondary

criteria will be fulfilled within the budget. However, our advice would be to look to the good quality villages that surround Tonbridge, such as Ightham, Shipbourne, Hadlow, Hildenborough, Leigh and Tudeley, as these are all great places to live with good primary schools in or nearby and engaging village communities, and are within striking schools in the town. FAMILY TWO Again, this is likely to be a tough ask in many parts, however, we would suggest looking to Chipstead, Bessels Green and Riverhead in Sevenoaks as excellent solutions. Chipstead Park is one such example – having been built in the 1960s, the houses are attractive with well-proportioned rooms and good gardens for children to play in, and are still accessible to Sevenoaks train station and close to Riverhead and Amherst schools, which both enjoy superb reputations. FAMILY THREE Our tip would be to look east, as there are some excellent areas that to date have been under-valued for what they offer. Borough Green may not initially be in some buyers’ thoughts, but is worth closer inspection given its range of amenities, station with services to London and a new Sainsbury’s Local reported to be about to arrive. There is a selection of good primary schools, with Platt Primary close by and Ightham Primary slightly further afield; both enjoy excellent reputations, however, competition for places is fierce! Wrotham School is a well renowned secondary, with a vision for high achievers and it consistently ranks well nationally.

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

FAMILY ONE The requirement for ancillary accommodation is

NATASHA SELBIE ASSOCIATE SAVILLS TUNBRIDGE WELLS

becoming more and more popular, although even a budget of £1million may not guarantee this requisite is readily available. By encouraging buyers to look further afield on the outskirts of pretty villages, such as Wadhurst, Mayfield and Lamberhurst, where popular secondary and primary schools can be found and the village amenities are of great

01892 507 000 www.savills.co.uk

appeal, one would hope that the immediate requirements could be satisfied with an opportunity to convert any outbuildings or create ancillary accommodation in due course. FAMILY TWO If a large garden is required, it may well be worth a buyer considering the villages that surround Tunbridge Wells – such as Speldhurst, Langton Green, Brenchley, Matfield and Frant, where village life is still thriving, with active communities and where well thought of primary schools can be found. The wider facilities of Tunbridge Wells can still be easily accessed and mainline stations for the City are within convenient reach. FAMILY THREE If off-road parking is an absolute must, it may take a little more doing to find it in Tunbridge Wells and the nearby villages, which can often share a scarcity for immediate parking facilities within these budget parameters. But there are plenty of locations to choose from, particularly if the need for off-road parking is a priority over age and style of a house; a more modern/new build may offer this attribute more readily than a period townhouse.

HERE ARE SOME MORE EXPERT THOUGHTS ON HOW TO BUY IN THOSE COVETED CATCHMENT AREAS...

RUPERT CONNELL PARTNER/OFFICE HEAD KNIGHT FRANK TUNBRIDGE WELLS 01892 515 035 www.knightfrank.co.uk/tunbridgewells

CRANBROOK SCHOOL is highly sought after and has a catchment area that is set at a six-mile circumference of the school. Property within the Cranbrook catchment area (CSCA) tends to attract premium prices of up to 10% above the market value simply because of the demand for the school. Most of the villages in the CSCA are in high demand and, as a result, it would be difficult to achieve the best value for money. If the buyers are prepared to compromise on certain aspects of the property they buy, then they are likely to achieve more for a lower price. Busier villages such as Hawkhurst, Staplehurst and Cranbrook itself may offer slightly more reasonably priced properties, but the more sought after villages like Benenden, Rolvenden, Biddenden and Goudhurst tend to hold their value and prices will inevitable be higher in these addresses.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS is renowned for its excellent schools, both within the state and private sectors. Catchments for grammar schools vary year on year, with popular schools such as Tunbridge Wells Girls Grammar reducing its catchment to around one mile for the next academic year. Claremont Primary School remains highly popular and in recent years, the catchment has reduced considerably. THE ‘VILLAGE’ AREA continues to be extremely popular for this reason, which is reflected in house prices. For grammar schools, the St John’s area of the town can often provide best value for money, with a wealth of attractive period properties close to a number of popular schools and still only a short walk from the town centre and station. MARCH 2015

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01892 515152 • www.salomons-estate.com Salomons Estate, Broomhill Road, Southborough, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 OTG

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CÂť HEL

BREEZE

THE LffiiNGS & MANAGEMENT SPECIALISTS

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

12 London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN 13 1Aj T: 01732 740789 F: 01732 740742 W: www.helenbreeze.co.uk

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E D U C AT I O N

BEDE’S SENIOR SCHOOL

UPPER DICKER, EAST SUSSEX BN27 3QH

TYPE: Co-educational, independent day, weekly and full boarding school FOUNDED: 1978 NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 750 NUMBER OF STAFF: 328 COST PER TERM (DAY): £6,640 COST PER TERM (BOARDING): Weekly boarding - £9,460; full boarding - £10,055 TEL: 01323 843 252 WEB: www.bedes.org EMAIL: admissions@bedes.org HEAD: Dr Richard Maloney

Bede’s is an independent, co-educational day and boarding school for 13 to 19-year-olds located in the rural village of Upper Dicker. Set in 140 beautiful acres of the Sussex Downs, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Special Scientific Interest, day pupils come to Bede’s from a range of feeder schools across the South of England and the Home Counties. students volunteering with local hospices,

national titles in all five ‘core’ sports since

at one of five stunning boarding houses, which

schools, care homes and historical societies to

2009, with over 20 additional sports clubs

were recognised by the Institute of Chartered

give back to the local area.

enabling pupils to compete in everything from

Over 300 of the school’s 750 students board

Surveyors in 2013 for their outstanding design

With some of the finest facilities in the

riding to rugby and from table tennis to target rifle shooting.

and innovation and which form part of a

South East, including a multi-award winning

campus that includes a practice golf course,

art school, and a reputation for excellence in

competition-sized swimming pool and

performing arts, the school hosts over 200

Emerging Talent Programme (ETP) at Bede’s

eight-court sports complex with superlative

events each year, including a diverse range of

prepares athletes for careers in sport and is

fitness suite.

concerts, plays and variety performances.

overseen by IOC delegate and Director of Sport,

The Legat School of Dance, the UK’s oldest

Andy Hibbert, ex-England International and

Richard Maloney in 2009, who was recognised

residential dance school, is based on site and

Director of Cricket, Alan Wells, and ex-Great

by The Daily Telegraph in June 2014 as one of

works with the Bede’s music and drama

British Number One, Bede’s Alumnus and

the UK’s ‘Top 10 Heads to Watch’, bolstered

departments to send dancers, actors and

Director of Tennis, Julie Salmon.

by a partnership with Kings College London,

musicians annually to the likes of Laines

Bede’s has enjoyed five successive years of

Theatre Arts School, East 15 and directly

as an individual, Bede’s prides itself on

record-breaking GCSE and A Level results, yet

into the industry.

educating not only for success in the material

Since the appointment of Headmaster Dr

For elite sportspeople, meanwhile, the singular

A school where every pupil is truly treated

sense, but in ways that empower young

remains determined to not top-slice its intake.

Nationally renowned sports academies in

As the number one school for value added in

cricket, football, tennis, hockey and netball

people to flourish meaningfully as rounded

have seen Bede’s claim county, regional and

human beings.

the Southern region, including East and West Sussex, Hampshire and the South West, the unique educational philosophy at Bede’s promotes the enrichment of the whole person, preparing pupils for life, as well as exams. Choosing from over 140 afterschool activities and sports clubs each week, including computer programming, spray sailing, the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme and a hands-on zoological society, Bede’s pupils enjoy peerless extracurricular opportunities, including via a community links programme, which sees

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BEECHWOOD"'" School An Independent School for Boys and Girls (3- 18)

TUESDAY 10 MARCH 9.30- 12 NOON

• SATURDAY 14 MARCH 9.30- 1.00PM • • • • •

Happy, friendly school Outstanding teaching and learning Co-educational day and boarding High standards of behaviour Each individual is important

www.beechwood.org.uk registrar@beechwood.org.uk 01892 532747 Pembury Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3QD

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E D U C AT I O N

BEECHWOOD SACRED HEART SCHOOL PEMBURY ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT TN2 3QD

TYPE: Independent co-educational day and boarding school (age three to 18) YEAR FOUNDED: 1915 NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 420 NUMBER OF STAFF: 80 COST PER TERM (DAY): £3,020 to £5,312 COST PER TERM (BOARDING): £7,820 to £8,820 TEL: 01892 532 747 WEB: www.beechwood.org.uk EMAIL: registrar@beechwood.org.uk HEAD: Mr Aaron Lennon

TELL US ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL AND APPROACH AS HEAD The school was founded 100 years ago by the Sisters of the Sacred Heart, for girls only; in 1973 it became a lay school and, in 2008, boys joined the girls in the Senior School for the first time. Today, Beechwood

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

honesty, respect for every individual, working

is a thriving co-educational school serving the

My aim is to provide an excellent educational

hard and doing your best.

local area, with boarding pupils from across

experience for our pupils in a happy school

the world.

environment. Beechwood has a strong sense

As Head, I believe that, as well as being prepared for examinations, pupils should be taught to think for themselves, think creatively and learn to work

of community – we all pull together, which gives the school a wonderful, friendly atmosphere. The high standards of personal conduct and achievement

HOW DO YOU ENSURE STUDENTS RECEIVE A WELL-ROUNDED EXPERIENCE? We provide a broad education with a wide range of subjects, including the arts, technology, drama and music, as well as a full

in teams – this prepares them

of Beechwood pupils and the

extracurricular programme including around

for life at university and in the

hard work and dedication of the

50 clubs, which run at lunchtimes and after

workplace. At Beechwood, we

staff make the school what it is.

school. There are overseas trips to Belgium,

strive for excellence in teaching and learning. In our small classes, our teachers support and inspire pupils to achieve their best, exceeding

Spain, France and Germany, including a ski

HAVE THERE BEEN SPECIFIC CHALLENGES YOU’VE FACED? I joined Beechwood two years ago from

trip and an annual sports and cultural exchange with the Liceo Galileo Galilei in Verona. Students also have the opportunity

their academic targets. We prepare our

a local grammar school, knowing very little

to exchange with pupils in Sacred Heart

pupils for the future, but encourage them to

about international marketing. Opening the

schools around the world. These, along with

enjoy the present, so that all our pupils leave

school’s first boys’ boarding house was

opportunities for lectures, visits and

school with self-confidence and a sense

therefore a big challenge for me, involving

charitable work, all ensure a well-rounded

of ambition.

many air miles and talking to parents from

experience for our pupils.

different countries. It has been rewarding to see the increased uptake of boarding places for both girls and boys at Beechwood.

AND YOUR APPROACH TO PASTORAL CARE? Beechwood has an outstanding reputation for the pastoral care of its pupils – the happiness of every child is important to us. We make sure that concerns are quickly dealt with and we celebrate success, recognising good in every pupil. We encourage all pupils to embrace the ethos and values of the school – values such as

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I had a fantastic seven years at Bethany and wouldn't be where I am now without the support and guidance I received. I made friendships for life. RosieWood Biomedical Science, University of Surrey Bethany pupil2007-2014

At Bethany we inspire, encourage and challenge our pupils to achieve more than they ever thought possible.

Tuesday 28th April2015, 9am-11.30am. Come and see what Bethany can do for your child. Co-educational day and boarding school for ages 11-18. Weekly, full and flexi-boarding. Scholarships and bursaries available.

01580 211273 or registrar@bethanyschool.org.uk www.bethanyschool.org.uk Goudhurst, Kent, TN171LB

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E D U C AT I O N

BETHANY SCHOOL

CURTISDEN GREEN, GOUDHURST, CRANBROOK, KENT TN17 1LB

TYPE: Independent co-educational day and boarding school FOUNDED: 1866 NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 352 NUMBER OF STAFF: Teaching – 48 COST PER TERM (DAY): £5,161 for Year 7, £5,311 for Year 8 and £5,457 for Years 9 to 13 COST PER TERM (BOARDING): £8,614 for Year 7, £8,764 for Year 8 and £9,246 for Years 9 to 13 TEL: 01580 211 273 WEB: www.bethanyschool.org.uk EMAIL: schooloffice@bethanyschool.org.uk HEAD: Mr Francie Healy

TELL US ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL Having been founded in 1866, Bethany is proud and excited to be approaching its 150th anniversary. Celebrations of various kinds are currently being planned and will begin with the unveiling of a commemorative tree, which has been designed and superbly crafted by one of our pupils. Over the

encourage them individually, challenging and supporting them as needed so that they can fulfil

WHAT ABOUT EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AND SCHOOL TRIPS? Our busy activities programme is wide ranging

years, the school has maintained a

their potential. We are

and takes account of all manner of interests. For

rolling programme of development

continually looking at our

example, this term pupils can choose to play

and today we are able to offer our

teaching and learning to see

football, badminton, tennis, hockey or netball;

pupils a first-class education in

how we can improve the

they can be active in other ways by enjoying our

quality of how we teach, and

High Ropes course, horse riding or trampolining;

first-class facilities. My approach to education is that school should be enjoyed rather than

therefore improve the way our pupils learn.

endured. Bethany has a strong reputation as a

they can try street dance, clay pigeon shooting, bush craft, quilting – and the list goes on. The school trips programme is equally full;

particularly friendly and happy community and

ANYTHING YOU’RE PARTICULARLY PROUD OF?

during half term many of our Sixth Form pupils

it is this atmosphere of positive nurturing and

Our pupils fill me with immense pride. Pupils

went to New York and Rome on various subject

encouragement that makes our school

are at the heart of everything we do at

related visits. Our sports teams also have

‘refreshingly different’.

Bethany and our aim is to equip them for life

regular overseas visits to play with other teams.

The common thread running through

in an ever changing world. Watching them do

everything we do here at Bethany is to ensure

their utmost in the school production,

HAS THE CLASSROOM CHANGED IN RECENT YEARS?

the constant progression and development of

marvelling at their music prowess in our

In some ways the classroom has changed

each pupil. We understand that children learn in

concerts, admiring their sporting excellence

hugely, and in some ways it is the same as it

different ways and we spend time getting to

on the playing fields, hearing reports of their

ever was. We are extremely grateful that for the

know each pupil so we can guide and

exemplary conduct on school trips and, of

last two years, Bethany’s alumni, The

course, helping them celebrate their

Bethanians’ Society, have donated iPads to the

examination results reminds me every day of

new Year 7 pupils as they begin their educational

why I became a teacher in the first place.

journey with us. Using iPads gives us the opportunity to explore new avenues of

HOW DO YOU MANAGE PARENTS’ EXPECTATIONS?

education that have never previously been

At Bethany we exceed expectations. Pupils

possible, enhancing the way pupils interact with

who are predicted to achieve C grades

materials and broadening the scope of activities

achieve Bs and pupils who are predicted Bs

within the classroom. Teachers engage, inspire

achieve As, and we are immensely proud of

and educate. Technology probably doesn’t bring

our high ‘value-added’ score. Parents want the

about revolutions in education, but it helps

very best for their children and so do we.

education to evolve into something even better.

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Claremont

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL

Claremont Senior School in Bodiam ranked first amongst all local secondary schools in the Rother District area and third overall in East Sussex.

90%

of all students achieved five or more A* to C grade in their GCSE'S.

NEW SIXTH FORM OPENED IN 2014 Only so places per year group available. Early enrolment recommended. Headmaster, Giles Perrin said ... " We are absolutely delighted to achieve such fantastic results at our first time of asking. lt is a testament to the wonderful atmosphere which exists at the school. We expect to now go from strength to strength and this latest success has given the whole school community tremendous confidence."

NUR'lERY I PREPARATORY I SENIOR I SIXTH FORM

Independent school for children aged 1 to 18 Over 100 acres of grounds

www.claremontschool.c o.uk Nursery & Preparat ory Sch ool Ba ldslow, St. Leonards-on-Sea East Sussex TN37 7PW

Senior School & Sixth Form Bodiam, Robertsbridge East Sussex TN32 5UJ

01424 751555

01580 830396

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â&#x20AC;˘ Full academic and eo-curricular programme Study centre in France Term-time or 50 week nursery schedules NEW Sports Centre & Performing Arts Centre NEW enlarged two acre Forest School NEW Sixth Form now open

19/02/2015 11:32

E D U C AT I O N

BRICKLEHURST MANOR SCHOOL BARDOWN ROAD, STONEGATE, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX TN5 7EL

TYPE: Independent, co-educational prep school

The warm, family atmosphere at Bricklehurst

drama, dance, a dedicated special needs

FOUNDED: 1959

Manor is probably the first of many

teacher, plus a dyslexia specialist.

NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 125

positive feelings that you will have as you

NUMBER OF STAFF: 30

enter the school. Family owned and

chance to thrive and find success, whether it

COST PER TERM (DAY): £2,700 to £3,600;

established for 55 to 56 years, this Grade II

be an academic, musical, sporting or artistic

Kindergarten from £327

listed building provides a wonderful

talent. The extended day provides the

TEL: 01580 200 448

environment in beautiful surroundings where

opportunity for children to enjoy a range of

WEB: www.bricklehurst.co.uk

children can grow.

clubs and activities, including LAMDA, choir,

EMAIL: office@bricklehurst.co.uk HEAD: Mrs Christine Flowers

Now with its third owner, Christine Flowers – who has worked for the past 12 years to provide a modern, all-inclusive school – here,

Our broad curriculum offers every child the

orchestra, Spanish, gymnastics, art and seasonal sports. The school enjoys an excellent academic

children of all abilities have a unique and

record, with our children regularly gaining

refreshing opportunity to experience a

places in the Kent Grammar Schools or being

stimulating and thorough education, with

awarded scholarships to local independent

the attention on the basics – including

schools.

good manners. Children come to us from the age of three

At Bricklehurst, we work hard, but have fun so that childhood can be enjoyed. I believe that

to join our Early Years, which was rated in our

we fully achieve our aim to produce happy,

last inspection as ‘Outstanding’ in all areas.

confident and well-rounded pupils, who are

We have small classes, specialist teachers for

known to thrive in the secondary school of

languages (French and Mandarin), games,

their choice.

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Book online now to reserve your place: www.bright youngthings.eo.uk/ tunbridge-wells

19/02/2015 11:33

E D U C AT I O N

BRIGHT YOUNG THINGS TUITION CENTRE 3 CALVERLEY STREET, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT TN1 2BZ

TYPE: Tuition Centre FOUNDED: 2014 NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 75 NUMBER OF STAFF: 5 COSTS: 11+ classes – £26 or £24 a class when making a block booking of six classes; GCSE and A level classes – £30 a class or £28 a class when making a block booking of six classes TEL: 01892 800 492 WEB: www.brightyoungthings.co.uk/tunbridge-wells EMAIL: tunbridgewells@brightyoungthings.co.uk FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/bytTunbridgeWells TWITTER: @BYTTunbridgeW CENTRE DIRECTOR: Arthur Ponsonby

TELL US ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL We were established in April 2014 and are linked to the immensely successful Rochester Tuition Centre, which was founded in 1988. Our ethos is traditional learning coupled with the

second, that children derive immense

nurtures children right across the academic

teaching of very strong skills and knowledge.

satisfaction through their experience at the

spectrum, from early years through to university

We encourage children to become curious

centre. We make learning fun and exciting and

preparation. While we take a hefty proportion of

learners who want to seize the initiative in their

the vast majority of our new pupil intake

our pupils from the local Tonbridge/Tunbridge

quest to learn and go beyond the textbook. Our

comes via referrals, which demonstrates that

Wells area, we also have pupils travel to us

teaching philosophy is to foster a propensity for

we are doing what we do extremely well.

from East Sussex, South East London (e.g.

logical thinking, problem solving and the

Bromley), Sevenoaks and Maidstone.

development of a passion for language. We

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU MANAGE

want children to be able to think for themselves

PARENTS’ EXPECTATIONS?

HOW DO YOU ENSURE STUDENTS RECEIVE

and apply their knowledge in their future school

A key part of what we do well is relaying to

A WELL-ROUNDED EXPERIENCE?

years. These aims encompass my approach as

parents after each lesson what topic has been

The structure of our classes means that we

Head of the tuition centre.

covered, including areas of relative strength

offer children 15 minutes of instruction, where

and weakness, and highlighting a systematic

the teacher outlines two or three different

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

approach towards achieving future progress

methodologies and ways of approaching a

Two key things: first, that we achieved a

and improvement. An important product of

particular task. Within that time, children are

100% pass rate for our first Year 5 cohort,

this model of education is constantly

encouraged to ask questions, exchange points

who took their 11+ in September 2014;

monitoring progress and working within the

of view and motivate one another to be an

vital tripartite setup of communication

active participant in the learning process.

between parent, pupil and teacher. Alongside

Children will then work independently for the

our offering of a free assessment to all new

following 45 minutes, using our exclusive

Year 4 & 5 pupils, we also conduct end of term

learning materials. This allows the pupil to

mock assessments. These are an effective

accelerate learning at their own pace while the

learning tool in gauging relative levels of

teacher circulates (no class is larger than eight

progress, providing essential exam practice

as a policy of the centre), sets individual

and serve as both a useful and accurate

targets, cites gaps in knowledge and amends

forecast for understanding whether a pupil is

accordingly. This blend of collective and

on-track to secure an 11+ pass.

independent learning means that pupils of varying abilities can challenge themselves and

Arthur Ponsonby

FROM WHICH CATCHMENT AREAS DO YOU

become stimulated within the learning

ATTRACT STUDENTS?

environment. Our well-rounded approach is

We want to become a cornerstone of

centred on the aim that every child maximises

educational support within the local area that

their potential.

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E D U C AT I O N

COBHAM HALL

BREWERS ROAD, COBHAM, KENT DA12 3BL

TYPE: Round Square, International Baccalaureate World school for girls aged 11 to 18 years, boarding and day FOUNDED: 1962 NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 180 NUMBER OF STAFF: 108 (38 teaching staff, including part-time) COST PER TERM (DAY): £5,156 to £6,526 COST PER TERM (BOARDING): £7,789 to £9,817 TEL: 01474 823 371 WEB: www.cobhamhall.com EMAIL: enquiries@cobhamhall.com HEAD: Mr Paul Mitchell BSc TELL US ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL Opened in 1962, Cobham Hall is an all-girls independent school offering boarding and day places. It was the first all-girls school to be invited to join the Round Square movement about 40 years ago. The Round Square ethos and its accompanying philosophy are now very much at the centre of the school. I became involved in Cobham Hall in 2008 when I was appointed Headmaster. I was attracted by the school’s membership of Round Square and its associated ethos, the school’s independence and the intention to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB). social and spiritual. In keeping with the

of introducing the qualification and

HOW ABOUT THE ETHOS BEHIND YOUR APPROACH

philosophies of Kurt Hahn, the man who

promoting the benefits of the IB.

AS HEAD?

inspired the Round Square movement, I

I am very committed to providing an all-round

believe that the best education is based on

HAVE YOU NOTICED MANY CHANGES IN THE

education that develops all aspects of the

experience and challenge.

CLASSROOM OVER THE YEARS?

pupil; intellectual, creative, physical, moral,

The introduction and increased use of

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE BIGGEST

technology to aid teaching and learning.

CHALLENGES YOU’VE FACED?

However, it is important to remember that

I took over as Headmaster in 2008, at the

what has not changed is the prime importance

start of the recession. This brought great

of good teachers. Cobham Hall has

economic challenges to the school and an

considerably increased its use of technology

imperative to ensure that it fully developed,

inside and outside the classroom, but its most

articulated and broadcast its unique selling

effective, versatile and forward thinking asset

point – the only all-girls Round Square school

remains its staff.

in the UK that takes boarders. Part of that drive involved completing the transition from A levels to IB, a qualification closely linked to the Round Square ethos and the school’s all-round approach to education. Introducing a new qualification is never straightforward and was particularly challenging as the IB was still relatively unknown in the UK.

Mr Paul Mitchell BSc

Fortunately, the school has an experienced and versatile staff that took up the challenge

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DULWICH PREP SCHOOL, CRANBROOK

COURSEHORN, CRANBROOK, KENT TN17 3NP

TYPE: Independent day and

Dulwich Prep has developed hugely since its

Years section, has recently been completely

flexible boarding school for boys

humble beginnings in the orchards of Cranbrook

redeveloped and now comprises four brand

and girls aged three to 13

at the outbreak of World War Two, when Dulwich

new classrooms, all facing south and each

NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 540

College Preparatory School evacuated to the

with their own outdoor learning area under

COST PER TERM (DAY): £1,748

countryside in September 1939. Since then, the

a retractable roof. Children are outside come

to £5,165

site has grown to 50 acres in the heart of the

rain or shine, digging in their gardens and

TEL: 01580 712 179

beautiful Weald of Kent.

enjoying the playground.

WEB: www.dcpskent.org

Sports facilities are unrivalled and the school is

In Little Stream, forest school activities

EMAIL: registrar@dcpskent.org

justly proud of its ability to encourage and nurture

encourage the children to work together to

HEAD: Mr P.A. David, BEd (Hons)

new interests – with opportunities for all abilities

solve problems, become more independent

and extracurricular clubs ranging from triathlon to

and try new challenges where there is no

sewing. Dulwich Prep offers state-of-the-art

right or wrong answer! The children have the

technology, including interactive whiteboards

chance to learn specific skills such as shelter

linked to Apple TV in every classroom and an iPad

building, knot tying and cooking on an open fire.

for learning programme in Years 7 and 8,

A progressive programme of activities

providing a great tool for both independent and

culminates in a residential trip to Snowdonia

group study.

in Year 8, led by a specialist mountain

There is also a great emphasis on outdoor learning throughout the school. Starting in

206

expedition team. The Headmaster hosts tours of the school on

Nursery, the outdoor environment is used to learn

Monday, Tuesday and Friday mornings. Contact

from, not just learn in. Nash House, our Early

Sally Ahlers, Registrar, to arrange a visit.

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E D U C AT I O N

KENT COLLEGE PEMBURY

OLD CHURCH ROAD, PEMBURY, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT TN2 4AX

TYPE: Boarding school for

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF ABOUT

valued greatly by the girls. Our play therapist

girls aged 3-11 (Nursery/Prep/

YOUR SCHOOL?

is supported by Olive, her wire haired

Day and Boarding)

One of the key aspects that I take pride

dachshund, whose presence complements

FOUNDED: 1886

in is the atmosphere we create within

the therapist’s skills to ensure the girls feel

NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 210

Kent College, which is created through

confident to share their concerns and put

NUMBER OF STAFF: 75

a combination of super facilities, the

into place the strategies they are given.

COST PER TERM (DAY): £2,720 to £4,098

commitment of the staff and the enjoyment

COST PER TERM (BOARDING): £7,408

and happiness of the girls. As soon as you

HOW DO YOU ENSURE STUDENTS RECEIVE

TEL: 01892 822 006

walk through the door, you are enveloped

A WELL-ROUNDED EDUCATION?

WEB: www.kent-college.co.uk

by a warm, supportive family community.

In addition to their academic studies,

EMAIL: admissions@kentcollege.kent.sch.uk HEAD: Ann Lawson

our girls participate in sport, music,

TELL US ABOUT YOUR APPROACH TO

drama and art, with a wide range of

PASTORAL CARE

extracurricular activities, from ballet

Our main focus is on preparing the girls

to cookery and chess to hockey.

academically for the next stage of their

Developing a child’s character is also

education, but in conjunction with this,

essential. We provide opportunities

it is also vital that they are equipped with the

for them to develop their resilience,

necessary social skills to deal with the range

self-confidence, ability to face challenges

of situations life throws at them. We operate

and persistence, all of which are important

a Buddy system and benefit from having

qualities if they are to be happy and

access to a play therapist/counsellor, who is

successful in their adult life.

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E D U C AT I O N

THE MEAD SCHOOL 16 FRANT ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT TN2 5SN TYPE: Co-educational day school for ages three to 11

Every child deserves an education they can

FOUNDED: 1987

look back on with joy; an education that gives

NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 189

them core values upon which to build their

NUMBER OF STAFF: 34

lives, confidence to become the person they

COST PER TERM (DAY): £3,315 (Years 3 to 6),

are meant to be and the open-mindedness and

£2,990 (Reception, Years 1 and 2) and £975 to

resilience to grow into the independent, lifelong

£1,625 (Kindergarten and Pre-Reception)

learners and global citizens of the future. Life is

TEL: 01892 525 837

a journey full of adventures and challenges.

WEB: www.meadschool.info

School life is the springboard.

EMAIL: office@themeadschool.co.uk HEAD: Mrs Angela Culley

Each day at The Mead is an adventure. The

and a broad range of scholarships and entrance

academic standards, instilling a passion for

exams to independent secondary schools.

learning through a creative, ever evolving and

The curriculum is enhanced by specialist

pertinent curriculum within a caring, happy

teaching in French, Mandarin, sport, music,

environment. Housed in the centre of

drama and dance.

Tunbridge Wells close to the historic Pantiles,

The Mead is one large family where

we are a community school enjoying all that

communication is key and school and families

Tunbridge Wells has to offer through myriad

work very closely together. What am I most

educational trips and use of local facilities.

proud of? Every child, past and present, who

Children are prepared for a wide selection of secondary schools, including all six grammar

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schools through the Kent Selection 11+ test

school enjoys an enviable reputation of high

is entrusted to our care and call themselves a Meadite.

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We strive to ensure t he personal development of every pupil so t hey can achieve their full potential academically and socially in preparation for t heir life at university and beyond. We believe t hat a significant contributor to meeting this ambition is to offer an excellent all-round education in an inspiring teaming environment. Excellent A level results enable all pupils to progress to university with over 85% going to one in the top tier. We have a beautiful 200-acre campus and t his, combined with extensive modem facilities, e nables us to offer a w ide range of sports and co-cunicular activit ies. Entrance is selective at all ages. We have specific closing dates for I I+, 13+ and Sixth Form entry. Please see our website for details. Scholarships are available and are based o n assessment. Families who may be e ligible for financial assistance should contact t he Registrar for a Bursary application form. The school is just 5 minutes from t he M25 06). We run coach services from Crawley Down, Edenbridge, Epsom Downs, Horley, Oxted, Purley, Reigate, Sevenoaks, Sutton and Westerham.

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.. .

Watch your child thrive in our happy, friendly school

Russell House For boys and girls aged 2-11

We welcome children from the age of 2 ...... From a young age, we encourage participation in music and sports ...... Our track record in 11 + examinations for independent and grammar schools is impressive www.russellhouseschool.co.uk I 01959 522352 Station Road, Otford, Kent TN 14 SQU MARCH 2015

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RosE HILL ScHOOL ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS Independent Co-education from 3-13 Coniston Avenue, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 9SY Telephone: 01892 525591 Email: admissions@rosehillschool.co.uk www.roschillschool.co.uk

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E D U C AT I O N

ROSE HILL SCHOOL

CONISTON AVENUE, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT TN4 9SY

TYPE: Independent co-educational prep school FOUNDED: 1832 NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 303 NUMBER OF STAFF: Teaching – 44 COST PER TERM (DAY): £3,355 in pre-prep and £4,489 in the prep school TEL: 01892 525 591 WEB: www.rosehillschool.co.uk EMAIL: admissions@rosehillschool.co.uk HEAD: David Westcombe

TELL US ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL AND APPROACH AS HEAD Founded in Tunbridge Wells in 1832, Rose Hill is one of the oldest prep schools in the country. It moved to its present 17-acre site in Culverden Down in 1966. Our motto, ‘Nisi Dominus Frustra’ (Nothing is worthwhile without Jesus), reflects our strong Christian ethos, which underpins all aspects of school life. I am proud of the kindness shown among the

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU MANAGE PARENTS’ EXPECTATIONS?

children towards each other and

Parents expect and deserve a

the strong pastoral care. The

high quality, rounded education

school is genuinely a happy

and regular feedback from

place to learn and the children

teachers about their child. We

thrive in this environment. I particularly love seeing the enthusiastic, happy, friendly faces of the

have an open door policy and communication between parents and staff is key. Our approach to education is to

children – from the tiny three-year-olds in

look at the whole child, not just their exam

Kindergarten, all the way up to the confident

results. The school is small enough for us to

13-year-olds in Year 8.

know each child and to discover what makes each of them tick.

We also have a go karting club, which competes in national events. Lego,

HOW MUCH OPPORTUNITY IS THERE FOR PARENTS

storytelling, origami, knitting, ball skills and

TO GET INVOLVED IN SCHOOL LIFE?

triathlon club are all firm favourites among the

Lots. The school’s Parents Association

children. School trips take place for every year

organises events for parents and children

group – from local places of interest, such as

throughout the year and parents are often

Herstmonceux Science Centre, to international

invited to attend assemblies. Each class has a

geography trips to Rome/Sorrento and our

parent representative who meets with me

hugely popular residential trip to France.

each term to share ideas and suggestions. Parents with expertise in a specific field, such

AND YOUR APPROACH TO PASTORAL CARE?

as dentists, policemen etc. enrich the teaching

Individual attention and care is at the heart of

and learning through visits.

the school. Well-trained staff and friendly and open pupil-teacher relationships ensure each

WHAT ABOUT EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AND

child is known. Children are encouraged to be

SCHOOL TRIPS?

open and to let anyone know if they are

I believe this is a real strength of the school.

worried about anything. A full-time school

Activities are many and varied. We have our

nurse is invaluable and provides another

own Cubs, Rainbows and Brownies packs.

all-important listening ear.

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E D U C AT I O N

SACKVILLE SCHOOL, TONBRIDGE TONBRIDGE ROAD, HILDENBOROUGH, KENT TN11 9HN

TYPE: Independent co-educational school

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF ABOUT

with our dedicated staff. The school has a vertical

for ages 11 to 18 years

YOUR SCHOOL?

tutor group structure in KS3, with pupils from

FOUNDED: 1987

When I first arrived at Sackville, I was immediately

Years 7, 8 and 9 split into groups with a Teacher

COST PER TERM (DAY): ÂŁ4,540

struck by its distinctive, community atmosphere.

Tutor, who supports them in all aspects of school

TEL: 01732 838 888

This was reinforced at one of my first school

life. Thereafter, tutor groups are based on the

WEB: www.sackvilleschool.co.uk

events, which was attended by large numbers

year cohort.

EMAIL: office@sackvilleschool.com

of alumni, making me realise that strong bonds

HEAD: John Hewitt

are forged here. Being a small school, it is easy

DO YOU OFFER EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AND

to know all the children, their parents and staff

SCHOOL TRIPS?

very well. Uniquely, our small class sizes and

Our extracurricular programme has always been an

individualised teaching methods mean that

important feature of life at Sackville. Participation in

we are particularly adept at ensuring each

enrichment activities can bring huge benefits for

student flourishes.

young people; self-esteem and confidence grow when a new skill is learned or talent developed. I

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TELL US ABOUT YOUR APPROACH TO PASTORAL CARE

have extended our provision by offering more

This is a vital part of the ethos of Sackville School;

activities after school and students can choose

happy, contented children make successful

from a diverse and stimulating selection of clubs.

learners. We introduce pupils to the Sackville

School trips are also an important part of the

family via taster sessions, when they become

curriculum and forthcoming trips include skiing in

familiar with the school and bond with each other.

Austria, an art trip to Paris, a geography field trip to

Once here, they benefit from close relationships

Iceland and an activity holiday to the Alps.

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E D U C AT I O N

SEVENOAKS PREP SCHOOL

GODDEN GREEN, SEVENOAKS, KENT TN15 0JU

TYPE: Independent day school for boys and girls

The atmosphere of Sevenoaks Prep makes it a

aged 2 to 13

very special school. We place great importance

strengths of Sevenoaks Prep. Our older pupils

FOUNDED: 1919

on individuality, but our pupils also understand

play a crucial role in school life, as they are our

NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 385

that they are part of a wider community.

leaders and role models, and they are given

NUMBER OF STAFF: 63 teaching staff

Pastoral care is at the core of what we do; we

responsibilities accordingly. We prepare pupils

COST PER TERM (DAY): £2,850 to £4,130

are here to make sure pupils learn, but also that

for exams at 11+ and 13+, working closely

TEL: 01732 762 336

they are confident to talk to us, to their parents,

with parents to ensure that we choose the

WEB: www.theprep.org.uk

to their peers and to new audiences. We work

right senior school for each child. These

EMAIL: admissions@theprep.org.uk

together to make sure they receive the very

decisions are based on our understanding

HEAD: Mr Luke Harrison

best start in life. Pupils and teachers here trust

of them as individuals and as members of

each other. Fundamentally, our caring and

our community.

dedicated teachers enjoy spending time with the children.

Life in Years 7 and 8 is one of the great

Education is about more than what happens in a classroom; it is about social responsibility

Every child has a chance to make a difference

and how a pupil engages with the world

in school and to contribute to school life. Drama,

around them. We give them experiences

music, art and sport all play a very important

beyond the classroom environment, with

part in a pupil’s development. Everyone has the

structure and guidance, so that they are

opportunity to represent the school at sport, in

challenged and learn through experience.

music concerts and in school productions. We

We want our pupils to enjoy their childhood,

have a broad curriculum and an extensive range

be challenged and be prepared for the test

of extracurricular clubs, activities and trips.

of life rather than a life of tests.

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E D U C AT I O N

SKIPPERS HILL MANOR PREPARATORY SCHOOL

FIVE ASHES, MAYFIELD, EAST SUSSEX, TN20 6HR

TYPE: Preparatory school

HEADTEACHER MR LEWIS TO RETIRE AFTER 25

for the future of Skippers. The time has definitely

FOUNDED: 1945

YEARS AT SKIPPERS HILL SCHOOL

come for me to pass on command to a younger

NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 136

Following a successful 25 years at the helm,

man whom I greatly respect.”

NUMBER OF STAFF: 35

Headteacher Mr Tim Lewis will be retiring at the end

COST PER TERM (DAY): From £1,437 (fulltime

of the academic year. In 1990, Tim, his wife Fiona

become the next headmaster when Tim retires at the

kindergarten including EYEE) to £4,000 (Years 7 and 8)

and their two children arrived at Skippers to start a

end of the summer term. Prior to joining Skippers,

TEL: 01825 830 234

three-year contract, which ended up stretching into a

Mark was a member of the Senior Leadership Team

WEB: www.skippershill.com

quarter of a century. During that time, both Tim and

at Geneva English School, with responsibility for

EMAIL: info@skippershill.com

his wife have successfully maintained the ethos of

pastoral care across the school. Prior to that, he was a

HEAD: Mr Tim Lewis

Skippers Hill, as established by Ray and Maureen

Head of House and Boarding Housemaster at The

Ward, who founded the school in 1945.

Junior King’s School, Canterbury.

“We have had many adventures as the school has Tim Lewis (right) and Mark Hammond

“The Hammond family are delighted to be at

flourished, but have nevertheless maintained its

Skippers and very much looking forward to being

warmth and individuality,” comments Tim. “To have

at the heart of the school community for many

played a part in its success has been a privilege.

years to come,” says Mark. “Skippers has a

“It has been exhilarating to have helped steer so

214

Mark Hammond, currently Deputy Head, will

special atmosphere that stretches back many

many vital capital projects through to completion,

decades. I am thrilled by the opportunity to take

including the IT suite, new Early Years block,

the school forward with a strong team, ensuring

performing arts room and the fantastic Astro –

that we fully prepare our children for life in the 21st

while not forgetting the curriculum innovation,

century, while retaining a child-centred, family

incorporated into our ambitious development plan

atmosphere where individuals are nurtured.”

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E D U C AT I O N

ST EDMUND’S SCHOOL CANTERBURY

ST THOMAS HILL, CANTERBURY, KENT CT2 8HU

TYPE: Co-educational day & boarding for ages 3 to 18

A FORWARD THINKING SCHOOL WITH

FOUNDED: 1749

TRADITIONAL ROOTS

are equally sure that important benefits

NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 540

The school’s core values stay constant

of a St Edmund’s education are the

COST PER TERM (DAY): Junior – from £4,655;

in that at the heart of all we do remains

intangibles, the values and inner

Senior – £6,217

a tradition of academic excellence, a respect

strengths, that underpin adult life.

COST PER TERM (BOARDING): Junior – from

for the individual, a belief in meritocracy

In many ways, St Edmund’s, although

£6,323; Senior – from £9,254

and a commitment to ensuring that our

true to its traditional roots, is a forward

TEL: 01227 475 601

young men and women leave St Edmund’s

thinking school that believes in

WEB: www.stedmunds.org.uk

not only with the exam grades they will

challenging every pupil to work towards

EMAIL: admissions@stedmunds.org.uk

require for university and employment, but

achieving their potential within an

HEAD: Louise Moelwyn-Hughes

with the interpersonal skills and qualities

encouraging, supportive and aspirational

they will need to lead happy, fulfilling and

setting; with the right considered

record-breaking exam results – but we

successful lives. Government statisticians

approach, every pupil can progress and

increasingly know the price – or at least

fully enjoy the process and rewards

the UCAS tariff score – of every

of education.

conceivable qualification, but they do

St Edmund’s welcomes new pupils and

not always recognise the value of

their families to come along and experience

a high quality, all-round education.

our excellent classroom teaching, our

At St Edmund’s, we are confident

outstanding extracurricular provision and

that pupils have been well taught to excel

our lively and vibrant charitable and

in GCSE and A level – 2014 saw

service programmes.

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Educating mind, body, heart & soul 'Excellent Academic Achievement' 'Excellent Pastoral Care' 'Excellent spiritual, moral, social and cultural development'

___,

Inspectorate Report 2012

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E D U C AT I O N

MAYFIELD

THE OLD PALACE, MAYFIELD, EAST SUSSEX TN20 6PH

TYPE: Catholic independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11 to 18 FOUNDED: 1872 COST PER TERM (DAY): £6,250 COST PER TERM (BOARDING): £10,000 WEB: www.mayfieldgirls.org EMAIL: enquiry@mayfieldgirls.org TEL: 01435 874 600 HEAD: Miss Antonia Beary

TELL US ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL Mayfield is a Catholic independent boarding and day school in Sussex for girls aged 11 to 18. We have a proud reputation for high academic achievement, exceptional pastoral care and high quality extracurricular activities. Mayfield gives its girls the chance to discover and fulfil their full potential. Above all else, it’s a happy school.

and other people outside the

them the tools to cope with this stress; be it

classroom. Mayfield offers a

exam pressure, peer pressure or the force of

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

wide variety of activities and

social media. Staff work closely with girls to

There is no such thing as a typical

trips; girls are encouraged to

build confidence and resilience, helping them to

Mayfield girl; we accept each individual for who she is and encourage her to find her

explore their potential in the performing and creative arts, sport

be aspirational; there is nothing you can’t do if you try and Mayfield girls prove it!

strengths and build on them. While we stretch her

and other physical and intellectual

academically to achieve the best exam results, we

pursuits, as well as there being an expectation of

HOW DO YOU MANAGE PARENTS’ EXPECTATIONS?

also give her the time, space, spiritual and

service to the community. Overseas trips and

We are not an academic hothouse. Mayfield

emotional support she needs to flourish as a

activities range from tennis in Florida and skiing in

achieves outstanding exam results by placing

person. We nurture creativity in every subject she

Switzerland, to geography field trips to Morocco

great emphasis on nurturing well-rounded

studies and want to inspire a love of learning for

and Iceland and cultural and historical visits to

young women who can handle pressure and

itself. We challenge girls to set themselves

Italy and the Battlefields of Flanders. We have

form a balanced and robust philosophy of life,

demanding targets and to find strategies for

exchanges to France and sister schools in the

rather than teaching them to jump through

achieving them. It works, as I have yet to meet an

USA, while Sixth Formers volunteer with disabled

hoops. We are conscious that parents want the

Old Cornelian who isn’t interesting!

children in Thailand, on pilgrimage in Lourdes or

best teaching facilities and resources for their

with our new project in Tanzania.

daughters and we pride ourselves on our ability

ARE THERE MANY EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

to provide them. One of our particular strengths

AND SCHOOL TRIPS?

IN WHAT WAYS HAS THE CLASSROOM CHANGED

is our Value Added scores – helping girls who

While academic study and the pursuit of

IN RECENT YEARS?

have traditionally underperformed to fulfil their

excellent examination results are important, in

The pressure on teenage girls today is

potential and surpass their expectations.

practice, the girls learn more about themselves

immense. Part of our role as teachers is to give

AND YOUR APPROACH TO PASTORAL CARE? It is fundamental, but shouldn’t be mistaken for ‘wrapping girls in cotton wool’! Each girl needs personal support, which will vary in nature as she grows. While we aim to nurture and celebrate each individual, we also engender in our girls an awareness and appreciation of the needs and gifts of others; it’s not only about the care they receive, but what they can go on to share with the wider community.

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E D U C AT I O N

SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL

SENIOR – NORTH STREET, SUTTON VALENCE, KENT ME17 3HL; PREP – CHURCH ROAD, CHART SUTTON, KENT ME17 3RF

TYPE: Independent, co-educational three to 18, day and boarding FOUNDED: 1576 NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 820 NUMBER OF STAFF: 150 COST PER TERM (DAY): (Three to 18) £2,670 to £6,435 COST PER TERM (BOARDING): (11 – 18) Three to five nights flexi up to full, £6,555 to £9,885 TEL: Senior – 01622 845 200; Prep – 01622 842 117 WEB: www.svs.org.uk EMAIL: enquiries@svs.org.uk; enquiries@svprep.svs.org.uk HEADMASTER: Mr Bruce Grindlay

TELL US ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL Sutton Valence School has been in the heart of the Kent countryside since 1576. A community where

the key. It is vital that our parents understand

AND YOUR APPROACH TO PASTORAL CARE?

each cares for all and individuality is cherished, in

and recognise the actual profile (academic and

The whole-school community is supportive but

1995 the school expanded to include a Prep,

otherwise) of their child so that they can see

large, so we break it down into smaller family

Pre-Prep and Nursery and now educates over 820

and celebrate the length of the journey each

units. Our day and boarding houses comprise

pupils aged from three to 18. With an ethos that

takes while in our school.

approximately 50 pupils each. Within these,

recognises that we are all individuals, we are one

the pupils are put into vertical tutor groups of

school with many different journeys to suit and

ARE THERE MANY EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

around 15 pupils, where the old can mentor

properly educate our pupils.

AND SCHOOL TRIPS?

the young and develop leadership skills, while

Our co-curricular and leadership journeys are

the young can feel supported and part of a

ANY PARTICULAR HIGHLIGHTS FOR YOU?

vital components of what we call our Total

school family spanning the years. Family units

I am very proud of the community at SV.

Curriculum. Somewhere in every child’s

also exist in sport, music, drama – in fact, in all

There is no standard Suttonian, but I hope that

education they need to learn the vital skills of

of the things we provide outside of the

all demonstrate confidence, kindness and

self-discipline, focus, commitment and effort

classroom. All are predicated on mutual

commitment in all they do. As a result of the high

and not everyone learns these sitting in a

respect and recognising and celebrating our

expectations and standards we expect and instil, I

classroom. Our sport, music, drama, charity

differences.

am delighted that our examination results have

work, Duke of Edinburgh scheme and the

improved year on year for the last six years and

Combined Cadet Force all help with the

that we have been recognised for adding value to

acquisition of these skills, allowing the pupils to

WELL-ROUNDED EXPERIENCE?

the academic and all-round education we provide.

build self-esteem and confidence through really

While the children are younger (three to 13

IN WHAT WAYS DO STUDENTS RECEIVE A

achieving and being recognised for their obvious

years old), we do not have Saturday school, but

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE BIGGEST

talents. We also like to strengthen the vertical

we pack the working week with academic and

CHALLENGES YOU’VE FACED?

bonds of our community by having our younger

co-curricular opportunities and insist that pupils

Getting the community to understand that a

pupils learn from and work with our older pupils.

do not cherry pick or choose where they invest

selective intake does not improve academic

their effort. All need to try hard in all they do, as

results for the individual. What improves results

only then do they start to see their true

is a bespoke approach and a real care for the

potential emerging. At Year 9 we add Saturday

needs of the individuals. It is also important for all

morning lessons and afternoon sports matches,

to understand that a truly excellent and

so we can further enhance our education by

well-rounded education is not just about

assigning a whole afternoon to

examination results. Results will only get you the

non-classroom-based education: the Duke of

interview; personality and skills land you the job.

Edinburgh scheme, the Combined Cadet Force, community service, Model United Nations,

HOW DO YOU MANAGE PARENTS’ EXPECTATIONS?

Young Enterprise and the kit car club, to name

Open, frequent and honest communication is

but a few.

MARCH 2015

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19/02/2015 12:34

Darenth GOLF

alley

COURSE

WEEKDAY SPECIAL Coffee and bacon roll • 18 holes of golf • 1crs filling lunch £29.00 per person

Quote: SOMAG when booking.

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19/02/2015 10:30

ADVERTORIAL

GETTING YOU MOVING

Property Turner is a independent Property Search Agency in Kent that can help you find your dream Kent home. Combining professional experience with in-depth local knowledge, they are passionate about the area and can help you with all your property search needs and requirements by living in an area for some time. I qualified as a

market closely. We are experts at negotiating,

Chartered Surveyor and was previously a Partner

we do it regularly and we have a feel for how far

with Knight Frank in London on the commercial

we can go; we can help you save money.

side. I grew up in Kent and moved seven years ago from Horsmonden to near Cranbrook. My colleague Catherine Daniell qualified as a

Although our main business is finding homes for our clients to buy, we also find rental properties. The rental market is much more

Chartered Accountant and grew up just outside

immediate and it is extremely important to be on

Sevenoaks, where she has recently renovated

the ground so that we can go and see houses

MY NAME IS HELEN TURNER and I set up

two properties and now lives in Sevenoaks town

the same day they are listed. We have advised

Property Turner five years ago after I had helped

centre. Sally Bennie was a Property Developer in

several clients from abroad and they have

several friends and other contacts move down to

South London before moving down to Kent. She

happily taken properties unseen. Pictures and

Kent. I grew up in Kent, qualified as a Chartered

divides her time between her house on the

descriptions are often misleading, but we only

Surveyor and, after several years working and

Romney Marsh, which she has had for 12 years,

advise taking a property that we ourselves

living in London, I moved back to Kent, attracted

and Benenden, where her husband is a

would be happy to live in.

by the commute for my husband, the choice of

housemaster at the school.

We follow the Sevenoaks to Ashford train line,

schools for my children, the reasonable house

We know our areas and we all have extensive

but also go into East Sussex and recently have

prices and the pretty countryside and towns.

networks, which results in us often hearing about

advised a couple of clients on purchases on the

I now have an excellent team with a passion

properties before they hit the open market, either

Kent Coast; St Margaret’s Bay to Broadstairs is

for property, which means we are able to

by word of mouth or by simply being in close

now very accessible with the fast train stopping

successfully listen to and fulfil our clients’ briefs.

contact with the agents. We know the agents

every hour, very good value and works either as

Property Turner is run by professionals with

well and we know the market. We can provide

a second home location or if there is no need to

the back story on most houses and follow the

commute to London daily.

in-depth local knowledge that can only be gained

Property Turner • Dene House, Friezley Lane, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 2LL • 01580 714 214 • www.propertyturner.co.uk MARCH 2015

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19/02/2015 15:26

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19/02/2015 11:35

bObles Crocodile

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Untitled-4 3

19/02/2015 11:35

Define yourself in three letters. GTS. One name that declares the concentrated essence of Porsche. Cars with increased power, enhanced specification and an amplified link to our motorsports roots. Cars driven by individuals who always desire more.

The new 911 Targa 4 GTS. All that matters. Find out more at porsche.co.uk/models/911

Porsche Centre Tonbridge Brook Farm Five Oak Green Road Tonbridge TN11 OQN Tel: 01732 590119 info@porschetonbridge.co.uk www.porschetonbridge.co.uk

Fuel consumption for the 911 Targa 4 GTS in 1/lOOkm (mpg): urban 13.9-12.5 (20.3-22.6), extra urban 7.7-7.1 (36.7-39.8), combined 10.0-9.2 (28.2-30.7); C0 2 emissions: 237-214 glkm. The mpg and C0 2 figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results, are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience.

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19/02/2015 11:34

MOTORING MATTERS

OUR ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM THE MOTORING SCENE RAPIDE RESPONSE Aston Martin has once again confirmed its position as the most popular luxury car brand in Switzerland. The British sports car maker is celebrating a key class win, as well as podium places, for a number of its models in the influential Best Cars of 2015 awards, run by respected automotive magazine Auto Illustrierte. In the 2015 awards, presented at a Zurich ceremony and decided entirely via magazine readers’ votes, the Aston Martin Rapide S was recognised for the sixth year running as the clear winner in the Luxury Class category.

EXTRA VALUE

MAKING HISTORY

TURBO BOOST

BIKE BEST

The Jaguar XF range now

Buys in the UK can now order the

The early success of Lexus’s NX

Ducati Motor Holdings recently

offers better value for money

new Ford Mustang – more than

crossover range is set to gain

announced record sales for 2014

than ever, thanks to a host of

50 years after the iconic car

extra, turbo-powered momentum

with Ducati UK and its dealer

enhanced trim packages and

first went into production.

with the introduction of the new

network contributing significantly

the addition of a brand new

Equipped with a 314PS 2.3-litre

NX 200t, the first model to benefit

to this overall result. For Ducati UK

derivative: the R-Sport Black.

EcoBoost engine or a 418PS

from Lexus’s new 2.0-litre

it was a record breaking year, with

Featuring a comprehensive list

5.0-litre V8 engine, the new

turbocharged engine. Order books

the UK subsidiary achieving 2,742

of specification enhancements,

fastback and convertible

are open now for the NX 200t,

registrations – a 17% increase

including 20” Black Kalimnos

models are available to order from

which will be available exclusively

on the previous year with a

alloy wheels and 770w Meridian

Ford Stores, priced from £28,995.

in F Sport trim with all-wheel

small increase in market share.

Surround Sound system, the

An online configurator will enable

drive, emphasising its more

This result was accomplished with

R-Sport Black offers an

customers to specify their

performance-oriented character.

consistently high sales throughout

additional £8,770 worth of value

Mustang and review pricing. In

It joins the full hybrid NX 300h,

the year, registering 10-year highs

over standard R-Sport models for

addition, smartphone and tablet

which has already amassed more

in every quarter with March being

just a £2,100 increase to its OTR

users can see and share exactly

than 1,000 sales since being

Ducati UK’s biggest single sales

price. All models in the XF saloon

how their chosen Mustang could

introduced late last year. The NX

month on record. Among the

and Sportbrake range now come

look, using a new augmented

200t costs £38,095 on the road;

32-strong dealer network there was

with Winter Comfort Pack and

reality app that places the car in

first customer deliveries will be

also the highest ever proportion

Parking Pack as standard.

the setting of their choice.

from mid-March.

achieving more than 100 units.

MARCH 2015

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19/02/2015 12:25

Cooper

Tunbridge Wells

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The Ultimate Driving Machine

19/02/2015 11:33

BMW 4 SERIES CONVERTIBLE. IMPRESSIVE. FROM EVERY PERSPECTIVE. Elegant styling, aerodynamic details, sporty proportions - the BMW 4 Series Convertible delights your senses visually too. Inside, choice materials, elegant leather upholstery and atmospheric interior lighting are always a feast for the eyes.

The new BMW 4 Series Convertible accelerates through each bend and immediately captivates attention, from whichever angle. lt exercises an irresistible aesthetic appeal with a distinctive design that expresses a readiness to leap in to action. With the Retractable Hard-Top open or closed, the BMW 4 Series Convertible is prepared to take the world by storm. The state-of-the-art technologies from BMW ConnectedDrive and an interior perfectly tailored to the driver's needs make for a superbly comfortable drive and enhance the unique driving experience in the BMW 4 Series Convertible. Every detail of this car evokes one thing above all: the irresistible feeling of pure freedom.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, AND TO ARRANGE A TEST DRIVE*, PLEASE CONTACT COOPER TUN BRIDGE WELLS TODAY.

Cooper Tun bridge Wells Longfield Road, Royal Tun bridge Wells, Kent TN2 3UE 01892 629 503 www.coopertunbridgewellsbmw.co.uk

BMW EfficientDynamics less emissions. More driving pleasure.

Official Fuel Economy Figures for the BMW Range: Extra Urban 26.2-83.1 mpg (10.8-3.41/1OOkm). Urban 14.664.2mpg (19.3-4.41/1OOkm). Combined 20.3-74.3mpg (1 3.9-3.81/1OOkm). C0 2 emissions 325-99g/km. rigures rnay vary devendtng on driY!ng style and condrtions. â&#x20AC;˘ Test drive subject to appltcant status aod ava~labihty. BMW EfficientOynarnocs rcdoces 8MW ern>ssiOns without compromising pertormance developments and IS staodard ocross the model range.

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19/02/2015 11:33

SUAVE SOPHISTICATION Has a minor makeover on the surface led to big changes under the bonnet? Matt Kimberley investigates the new Audi S6

udi has pressed

the RS development teams to

passenger zone. With such

the refresh button

deal with. Side skirts that jut out

shapely seats and high quality

on the full A6

more prominently, 19-inch

leathers cocooning you like a

range, so the

twin-spoke alloy wheels and

Persian prince, the S6 is better

muscle-bound S6

those flashy headlights give it

for luxuriating than it is for

saloon and Avant

the kind of window shopping

folding the seats down and

estate get the

appeal that half of Amsterdam

throwing a load of planks into.

could scarcely dream of.

It’s just too well-appointed

same (tiny) makeover. The grille now has twin bars running

for that.

across it instead of single,

deep down inside its bag of

thicker ones and the headlights,

tricks and there’s no getting rid

lots of things, power and speed

bumper and air inlets have been

of it. At first glance this could

being two. The S6 is as rapid as

slightly reshaped.

just be an S-line spec A6 and

the people who take used plates

its relative understatement is

away at all-you-can-eat buffets

you’ll see adaptive air

one of the qualities that help

and it doesn’t feel particularly like

suspension set to 20mm lower

it sell so well.

a turbo-charged engine. It pulls

Don some X-ray specs and

than the standard A6, while the

In finest fast Audi tradition you

Turbo-charging a V8 gets you

harder and harder with a barrel-

brake callipers are now matt

can choose an estate model as

chested bellow as the revs rise,

black, the rear diffuser has an

well as the saloon. The wagon is

a lot like the engines of S-car

aluminium-look blade and the full

a bit heavier, not that you’ll

generations past.

LED headlights are ever so

notice unless you take it on a

slightly slimmer.

track day, but it’s prettier and as

what you’d ever be able to

roomy as an empty shed.

exploit on the road. The way it

The wider changes to the base car have made it a better-looking platform for the S and, in 2015,

228

But the S6’s civility is stuffed

The question marks have to come further forward, in the

Grip and traction are beyond

drags itself so violently but so steadily out of tight corners is

MARCH 2015

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19/02/2015 12:24

uncanny. G-force has never been

quickly totting up beyond £60,000 is a

so unthreatening.

given. It’s big, hugely capable and

Most roads simply aren’t big

prestigious, but smaller premium

enough for the S6 to stretch its legs,

brand cars that will do the job just as

but at normal speeds it’s as stable as

well could offer a much better

Ayers Rock. Sure, it’s firm over

value alternative.

bumps on its huge (optional) 21-inch

The S6 is a gentleman’s express;

wheels, but if history has taught us

a large, powerful and long-legged

anything it’s that Audi buyers don’t

car with the ability to cross

tend to mind sacrificing ride quality

continents at speed without breaking

for aesthetics.

a sweat. It’s not particularly

At £56,000, the saloon is not a

affordable or cheap to run, but it is

cheap car. And at that price

very lovely. If money is no problem

Audi kindly leaves a lot of the

and the new looks light your fire

technology and luxury that you’re

more than ever, this is a solid choice

likely to want on the options list, so

that won’t leave you disappointed.

FACTS AT A GLANCE AUDI S6 SALOON, FROM £56,000 Engine: 4.0-litre turbocharged petrol V8 producing 444bhp and 406lb/ft of torque Transmission: 8-speed automatic driving all four wheels Performance: Top speed 155mph, 0-62mph in 4.4 seconds Economy: 30.7mpg combined Emissions: 216g/km of CO2

If this car was a suit... It would be from Marks & Spencer. It’s smart, well put together and stylish, but eminently sensible MARCH 2015

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19/02/2015 12:25

Audi Vorsprung durch Technik

Perfectly sculptured. From 7- 22 March, local scu lptor Guy Portelli will be exhibiting his work, The Sculptured Arts of Audi. Each Tuesday even ing, he'll also be discussing his works, their inspiration and his life as an artist.

To reserve your exclusive pair of exhibition tickets contact Tun bridge Wells Audi today.

Tun bridge Wells Audi

North Farm Industrial Estate DowdingWay Tunbridge Wells TN2 3UY 01892 703 000 tunbridgewells-audi.co.uk Part of the Inch cape Group

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As seen on BBC Twos' Dragons' Den Guy Portelli, RSA. AR8S, Gll)' Portelli Sculpture Studio 12S St Mary's 1\oad Tonbrldge Kent TN9 2Nl

19/02/2015 12:31

BUSINESS

BUSINESS NEWS

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

n INNOVATIVE CARE

n MEDICAL MARVELS

n STEVIE SUCCESS

A local homecare company is breaking

World-class facilities and consultants will

A Kent based business

new ground in the delivery of its

soon be available at Sevenoaks Medical

telecommunications provider has been

services. Expertise Homecare, which

Centre. Following a £1.4million

named as a finalist in prestigious

launched last month in Tunbridge Wells

investment, the centre’s expansion

business awards, the Stevies. Active

and Tonbridge, has developed its own

and refurbishment will include

Digital, which has offices in Paddock

software and systems to streamline

state-of-the-art equipment, such as

Wood, is up for Front-Line Customer

the delivery of care and ensure the

new diagnostic devices and an imaging

Service Team of the Year – Technology

highest standards are maintained.

service, allowing patients to be assessed

Industries – Telecommunications. More

Examples include a bespoke real-time

with results on the same day. Part of the

than 1,900 nominations were evaluated

notification system, which enables

HCA group, the centre has been based

for the ninth annual ceremony, which

carers to record each completed task

at Beadle House in Sevenoaks since

was held at the Bellagio Hotel in Las

on a handheld device during each visit.

2010; the redevelopment is due to be

Vegas last month (winners were yet to

Natalie Richards, care specialist and

completed this summer. Centre Manager

be announced at the time of going to

owner of Expertise Homecare, says:

Mikaela Saunders says: “HCA is

print). An Active Digital spokesperson

“We are committed to bringing

committed to providing the highest

says: “This award confirms our place

homecare into the 21st century

quality care and the investment into the

as one of the leading communication

through the use of innovative care

redevelopment of Sevenoaks Medical

companies providing a ‘world class’

processes, systems and software.”

Centre reflects this.”

customer experience.”

www.expertisehomecare.com

www.sevenoaksmedicalcentre.com

www.activedigital.co.uk

WORTHY CAUSE Local businesses are invited to sponsor a table at this year’s summer lunch in aid of Cancer Research UK. Organised by the charity’s Crowborough committee, the annual networking event will be held at the East Sussex National Golf Resort and Spa in Uckfield on Wednesday June 17. More than 200 guests attend each year, with 2014’s event raising almost £9,000 in support of CRUK. Bernard Smith, Head of Professional Services at Oldfield DAVID BARTHOLOMEW

Smith & Co, comments: “We are proud to stand and fight with the countless volunteers in their quest to defeat cancer in all its forms.” www.facebook.com/CRUKCrowborough

MARCH 2015

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MARCH 2015

GingerMonkeys DPS March15.indd 232

19/02/2015 10:09

ADVERTORIAL

gingermonkeys GINGERMONKEYS CREATIVE UK LIMITED HAVE BEEN A MAINSTAY OF ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS' GROWING DESIGN INDUSTRY FOR MANY YEARS

Creative Director Trevor Smith-Foreman

Their adventurous industry stand

has worked in the design industry

designs have won a number of awards in

for over 35 years, embracing change

recent years. From logo design to entire

and bucking trends along the way.

branding overhauls, Gingermonkeys can

Gingermonkeys have developed

offer expert advice and guidance to any

a reputation for being daring and

business, large or small.

working with cliems that demand to stand out from their competitors.

GINGERMO KEYS ARE

When you picture a Tun bridge Wells

EXPA DINGA DHAVE

design agency, what do you see?

A NUMBER OF CAREER OPPORTU ITIES OPENI 1G UP.

White walls, white de ks, pot plants and a stripped wooden floor?

• Office Manager (maternity cover) • Lead Graphic De igner

Think again.

• Senior Graphic Designer

Behind the fa<;ade of yet another

FREELANCE OPPORTUNITIES

Georgian hou e conversion lies

• Graphic Design

Gingermonkeys' Design Asylum -

• Web Design

an office like no other. From the black

• Web Develop ment

chandeliers to the leather floor, from

• Illustration

the brass knocker to the padded doors,

• Photography

as soon as you set foot inside the Design Asylum, you'll see that Gingermonkeys dare to be different.

For further information, please send your CV to info@gingermonkeys.com

Though they have a trong legacy in

GINGER.J\.10 KEY CREATI\'E LIMITED

print design, Gingermonkeys can offer

16 CHURCH ROAD

clients a huge range of ervices, to su it

ROYAL TUN BRIDGE WELL

a variety of budgets. They have 3D and

K£1 T

animation expert on board, as well as

T llJP

offering modern, functional web design.

01892 559370

MARCH 2015

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Member's benefits include: • Access to 18 Hole and 9 Hole Courses* • Members priority times every day of the week • Unlimited Practice included* • Junior Memberships included free with adults* • Categories to suit all lifestyles and budgets including our flexible metnbership • Intermediates for 18 - 35 Year olds • Annual Pass to Hever Castle & Tickets for your guests

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HEVER__ cAstLE GOLF C LVB

WWW.HEVER.CO.UK

19/02/2015 11:32

ADVERTORIAL

HOW YOU CAN SAFEGUARD YOUR DATA If you’re looking to preserve or dispose of your business records, Information Protection Solutions Ltd in Marden can help with a variety of services. We hear from Managing Director Derek Taylor about why the security of your files will be in safe hands

TELL US ABOUT THE HISTORY OF IPS

•Sack & Shred – for conﬁdential

I started the business approximately 10 years

paper destruction

ago, initially offering just archive storage

•Computer Data Destruction – for the

services to business customers in the Kent

destruction of hard media

area. From the outset it was important to be

•Plan and protect consultancy (see below)

different from the rest of the competition, as

•Electronic Information Management – for the

generally archive companies make a lot of

movement and storage of information

additional charges for things like handling and deliveries. I decided to operate a transparent

WHAT KIND OF PEOPLE DO YOU

pricing structure, whereby clients just paid for

WORK WITH AND HOW DO YOUR

the number of boxes they stored on a monthly

SERVICES BENEFIT THEM?

basis. This cost would also include any weekly

Our client base covers insurance companies,

collections/deliveries they needed, which

accountancy firms, solicitors… any business

enabled clients to budget efficiently and to really

that has a legal requirement to store their

see the benefit of outsourcing their storage

records and information in a complaint manner,

requirements. The business has since expanded

which is just about every business! We now

can use all or some of these services; the

to offer a ‘cradle to grave’ solution in respect of

offer a complete range of services, all of which

range covers everything from the physical

corporate information management, with each

are designed to ensure that clients meet their

storage of information – either in archive boxes

solution being branded in its own right:

corporate governance requirements in relation

or in the cloud – through to the actual

•Store-a-Box – for document archiving

to the information they store and use. A client

destruction of information, either paper based or hard media i.e. computers, laptops, tablets, hard drives etc. Our biggest growth area this year will probably be our Plan & Protect consultative service, whereby we help companies to write internal policies and information audit procedures in respect of how they handle assorted information, and ensure their compliance to the Data Protection Act. Although, not surprisingly, we would obviously encourage every client to look towards using all of our services. CAN YOU EXPLAIN MORE ABOUT PLAN & PROTECT? This is a consultancy service we provide to companies to help them formulate internal policies in respect of all their data handling, collection and usage when dealing with their clients, suppliers and staff. It covers all aspects of current legislation under the DP Act and will ensure that a company is not exposed to a procedural breech of the DPA, which could

236

MARCH 2015

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19/02/2015 12:56

ADVERTORIAL

leave the company exposed to claims by third

TELL US ABOUT YOUR STORE-A-BOX

comes from approximately a 50-mile radius of

parties for negligence.

DOCUMENT ARCHIVING SERVICE

Tunbridge Wells, but we can certainly operate

SAB continues to grow strongly. When clients

on a wider geographical basis as well.

DO I NEED TO SIGN UP TO A

examine the benefits of having a fully

LONG-TERM CONTRACT?

outsourced storage facility at their disposal, the

WHAT DOES 2015 HAVE IN STORE

Generally this is the case for archive storage,

choice becomes a simple and very cost

FOR THE COMPANY?

but we can also offer our Plan & Protect

effective one. For a fixed monthly cost, clients

Hopefully, continued growth and profitability

consultancy, Sack & Shred and our Computer

receive a secure offsite facility, with the ability

and the addition of some other service

Data Destruction products on an ad hoc basis

to have files/boxes delivered to and from their

solutions we are currently working on.

as well.

offices on a twice weekly basis.

WHY WOULD CLIENTS LOOK TO

HAS THERE BEEN AN INCREASE IN

Unit 4 The Fruitshow, Pattenden Lane,

PHYSICALLY DESTROY COMPUTERS

DEMAND FOR YOUR SERVICES IN

Marden, Kent TN12 9QL

AND HARD MEDIA?

RECENT YEARS?

01892 771 464

In these days of both corporate and personal

The changing world in which we now all

www.information-protection-solutions.co.uk

identity theft, the only way to securely ensure

operate means that the demand for all of our

info@information-protection-solutions.co.uk

that all of your data has been removed is to

services is growing, as clients realise that

have the item physically destroyed. Why

there are more issues to be dealt with,

would you want to risk exposing your used

particularly in respect of the destruction of ‘end

laptop/computer to a security risk by not having

of life’ data and its associated hardware.

Information Protection Solutions Ltd

it destroyed? We shred the equipment to a fine dust so that there is no possibility of anyone

WHERE IS YOUR STANDARD

retrieving the information; the client is then

OPERATING AREA – ARE

provided with a Certificate of Destruction,

YOUR SERVICES

which is their ultimate indemnity against any

AVAILABLE ACROSS

comeback. All of our destruction procedures

THE UK?

meet current UK legislation and are recycled

By and large,

within the UK where possible. This helps

most of our

companies to reduce their carbon footprint and

business

ensures their corporate and social responsibility.

MARCH 2015

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19/02/2015 15:31

591

201

Cooper Tunbridge Wells

SOMAG Z NE BUSINESS GOLF CHARilY CHALLENG E IN ASSOCIATION WITH COOPER TUNBRIDGE WELLS BMW PROVIDING THE ULTIMATE DRIVE

HEVER._CAStLE GOLF CLUB

y_...

PLACES ARE LIMITED. PLEASE CALL CLAIRE JONES AT HEVER CASTLE GOLF CLUB ON 01 732 701 003 TO BOOK IN YOUR TEAM. -

You can also call Paul Harvey: 01892 779 650 or 07720 970 056

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19/02/2015 11:32

EVENT

SOCIAL NETWORKING IN THE FAST LANE Some 100 businesses attended the first Sevenoaks and District Chamber of Commerce networking event of the year at Bentley Kent. The Chamber has seen a surge in new members since the start of the year and new companies were presented with their membership certificates. Chamber member Bentley Kent kindly opened their doors to the local business community, who enjoyed a morning of networking among the cars. Chamber networking events take place around the town on the first Wednesday of every month. For the location of the next event, check www.sevenoakschamber.com Chamber members can attend these events free of charge, while non-members are welcome for ÂŁ10. Photos: Russell Harper Photography

MARCH 2015

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19/02/2015 12:11

ADVERTORIAL

Throughout March, the Fairfax Gallery will be running a mixed exhibition featuring original paintings and sculpture from established, award winning and emerging artists.The contemporary paintings and sculpture will include landscape, figurative and abstract works. We are always delighted to help you find the perfect painting and continue our home trial service throughout Kent, Sussex and London to help you find the perfect piece or help with a larger project.

ON THIS PAGE Janine Shute ‘150cm’ pastel on paper 55 x 70cm Janine Shute ‘5cm’ pastel on paper 55 x 70cm David Eichenberg ‘VeniceII’ 16cm x 18cm oil on panel (prize winner at the BP Portrait Awards) Janine Shute ‘Classic Brogue’ pastel on paper 70 x 55cm

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

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ADVERTORIAL

The Fairfax Gallery was founded in 1995 on the elegant Lower Walk of the Pantiles. While now having two other permanent galleries - one in Burnham Market and Holt and exhibiting in London, New York, Singapore and Hong Kong the original Pantiles gallery, always ensures it has the latest and strongest examples on display in its spacious gallery set over two floors with a large stock behind the scenes...

ON THIS PAGE Allison Pullen ‘Osterley Park House’ mixed media 2 x 86cm Louise Balaam ‘Mountain of Angels, bright cloud’ oil on canvas 50 x 50cm Helen Sinclair ‘Sky Turned Upside Down’ stone resin height 175cm

Tel: 01892 525 525

www.fairfaxgallery.com

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19/02/2015 12:54

Fine A rt and Antique Sale - Saturday 28th March

Late Victorian sapphire and diamond ring £820 hammer

Signalling Cannon £I 000 hammer

Two Japanese Meiji period Miyao bronze sumo wrestlers £7,800 hammer

We are an independent auction house, offering a full appraisal and consultancy service. Ideally situated in the Pantiles.Tunbridge Wells. We are accessible by road or rail to London and are happy to cover most of the South East. We invite consignments of good quality Antique furniture, silver, jewellery, paintings, objects etc for future Fine Art and Antique sales.

01892 459 865 info@twandh.co.uk The Auction Hall, Linden Pari< Road, Tunbridge Wells,TN2 5QL.

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19/02/2015 11:30

HOLIDAY LEISURESH

Packed with great ideas from Days Out to wonderful holidays there is something for everyone!

Sunday, 22nd March 2015 Dover Cruise Termlna/10am- 4pm

Supported by: VISIT

KENT