Wheels Around the Weald Saturday 18th April, from 7.30am A 15 mile, 40 mile or 80 mile sponsored cycle for your local Hospice
Sign up now at www.hospiceintheweald.org.uk or call Sara for further details 01892 820586
Wheels Around the Weald Saturday 18th April, from 7.30am A 15 mile, 40 mile or 80 mile sponsored cycle for your local Hospice
Sign up now at www.hospiceintheweald.org.uk or call Sara for further details 01892 820586
SO W EALDEN
“DON’T CALL ME STUPID”
Model David Gandy on why he’s more than just a pretty face P ROBAB LY TH E B EST LO CAL M AGAZIN E IN THE WO R LD
BEAUTIFUL HOMES & GARDENS 84 PAGES of lifestyle inspiration
LONDON FASHION WEEK
WE REPORT DIRECT FROM THE FRONT ROW
loving later life DAME HELEN MIRREN AND HER STELLAR CAREER
THE CURLEW IN BODIAM “dining experience here is priceless”
RICHEST ROADS
ISSUE 31 - AP RI L 201 5
We reveal the most exclusive addresses in
APRIL 2015 £1.50 WWW.SOMAGAZINE.CO.UK
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ONE MAN, ONE MACHINE. G.P.M.H.
SPONSOR AND OFFICIAL TIMEKEEPER OF THE GRAND PRIX DE MONACO HISTORIQUE Untitled-1 2
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------------------路路-----------------63 High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TNl lXU Tel. 01892 5340181 Fax. 01892 510536
Email. info@gcollinsandsons.com I www.gcollinsandsons.com
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!
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Designers and makers of handmade solid wood kitchens and furniture for every room
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Please call for a brochure or visit our showrooms Unit 9, Chart Farm , Seal Chart Sevenoaks, Kent TN 15 OES Tel: 01732 762682
81 Calverley Road Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2UY Tel 01892 520730
www.rencraft.co.uk
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MODEL SHOWN KL38 - £27,971 * KRIEDER SHOWROOM- 3 Chapel Place, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN11YQ- 01892 619721 - info@krieder.com- www.krieder.com •price shown includes delivery, cabi net furni ture, appliances, work tops and VAT
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CONTENTS
HELLO HERE’S WHAT’S INSIDE YOUR APRIL ISSUE
30
THE CELEBRITY “As a model, you’re seen as a brainless idiot”
87
THE TRAVEL Exploring the exotic beauty of Vietnam
93
THE GUIDE Dame Helen Mirren, sharing memories and all your later life options
187 THE FOOD
117
Does Bodiam’s Michelin starred eaterylive up to the hype?
Find out if you live in the Weald’s richest road
THE FEATURE
39
THE FASHION Our report from London’s trendiest front rows
135 THE HOMES
Making the best of your property this spring
208 THE MOTOR
The force is strong with the Mercedes-Maybach S600
STRICTLY WEALDEN... News – Tenterden's noodle need Views – No co-operation for Cranbrook Calendar – All steamed up this Easter Fun and fur at Northiam animal charity Day in the life of Etchingham gardener Past meets present at Scotney Castle Tenterden tipple triumphs at awards
8
APRIL 2015
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By Appointment Ul Her Majesty The Queen Jeweller G Collins & Sons Limited Royal'funbridgeWells
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~ons
---------
63 High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, KentTN1 1XU Tel. 01892 5340181 Fax. 01892 510536
Email. info@gcollinsandsons.com I www.gcollinsandsons.com
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NEWS
Wealden
NEWS...
OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT SOME OF THE LOCAL STORIES MAKING THE HEADLINES the museum’s ‘continuing magnificent highlighting of a unique dimension of British railway history.’ “The award is a humbling recognition of the museum team’s worthy efforts over many years,” says Curator Brian Janes. “We hope that visitors will continue to come and enjoy the ever improving presentation when we open for the season at Easter.”
CRANBROOK CLOSING Businesses in Cranbrook have voiced their concerns over the future of the High Street, after two more shops in the town ceased trading. With almost 10% of shops now unoccupied, traders are fearing the town’s economy could be in decline. “I am worried for
END OF THE ROAD
Cranbrook because I think it is a lovely town,
Toy enthusiasts will no longer be able to visit Northiam’s Pedal Car Museum, as the
but if people are not willing to support their
attraction recently closed its doors for the last time. Phil Collins, who holds the Guinness
local shops then they will just disappear,” says
World Record for amassing the most toy pedal cars, has owned the premises since 2011,
Regina Shortland, who was recently forced to
but he revealed on the museum’s website that the visitor centre would be closing at
close her coffee shop Ipanema. “I have lived
once. “It is with great sadness that we are contacting you to inform you that after much
here for 15 years and I have noticed a massive
deliberating and careful consideration, we have decided to retire and subsequently close
loss in the variety of shops.”
the museum and tea rooms, with immediate effect,” he wrote. He revealed that he will continue to give a home to pedal cars, but that they will now be a private collection.
RICE REQUEST
as the ‘friendly face of Kent,’ Frittenden was
Despite the town already having many
commended on its community spirit, transport
eateries, Tenterden residents are hoping
links and proximity to Cranbrook School.
to add a little more variety to the High
Judges also praised the village for its low crime
Street with the addition of Asian restaurant
rates compared to other areas of the county.
Wagamama. After resident Callum Knowles took to Twitter to express his desire that the chain would come to the town, many other
STEAMING AHEAD
locals began tweeting the restaurant in the
A Tenterden attraction has received a top
hope they would take notice. Wagamama
award for its contributions to railway history.
MUGGING MERCY
replied, urging anyone who wanted to see
The Colonel Stephens Museum, which
In an unlikely twist, an elderly woman
the eatery in the town to put in a request
is located at the Kent and East Sussex
who was mugged at knifepoint has
via their website. Some locals have been
Railway in Tenterden, received the Heritage
forgiven her attackers and even praised
campaigning since 2013 to have the food
Railway magazine’s Interpretation Award,
them. Elizabeth West, 82, was out shopping
chain instated and are hoping that this time
which cited the reason for the win as being
in Goudhurst when she was attacked by
their pleas are answered.
two men who had escaped from Blantyre House prison. However, in court Mrs West
FRITTENDEN FAME
said that she forgave them and even praised one for agreeing not to take her mobile
It may be one of the smallest villages in Kent,
phone because it contained pictures of
but that hasn’t stopped Frittenden making
her grandchildren. “I would like to say that
a big impression. Despite having less than
despite what he has done I believe there is
1,000 residents, the parish has been named
good in him,” she said in a statement.
one of the UK’s top 50 places to live, in a list
“I urge him to read Chapter 53 from the
compiled by the Sunday Times. Referred to
Book of Isaiah in the New Testament.”
12
APRIL 2015
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LETTERS
SO
...AND VIEWS
THIS IS WHERE YOU HAVE YOUR SAY ON WHAT’S HAPPENING IN OUR PART OF THE WORLD LETTER OF THE MONTH
commuters using up the free spaces for locals and visitors I get angry, so it’s great news that the council will be introducing automatic number plate recognition to combat it. It’s nice to see that, for once, we’ve been listened to. JAMES CARTWRIGHT, UCKFIELD
Ed: Whether the commuters
COMMUNITY SPIRIT
will be happy about the
It’s such a shame that the long awaited Cranbrook community centre
decision is another thing!
may now not be built because of a greedy supermarket chain. Unless the Co-Op agree to allow access to the site via their car park, the Allegedly the supermarket want £1million to give way, which I think
DIVERSION AVERSION
is preposterous. How is a small community town like Cranbrook
Okay, okay, I get it. If we choose
supposed to meet those demands?
to live in a rural area we have
VICTORIA CHURCH, CRANBROOK
to expect to go the long way
Ed: Co-operative by name but apparently not by nature,
round occasionally, but I really
it would seem!
object to diversions that take
last 15 years of waiting, campaigning and planning will be in vain.
me over half an hour to navigate
TRASH TALKING
and add an extra 15 miles to my journey. The recent roadworks
If you share the anger and
on the A28 saw me schlepping
frustration expressed in
through Benenden, Sandhurst
‘Grumbler’s’ letter (March)
and Newenden, making my
concerning the shameful amount
usual five-mile journey between
of litter in our countryside and
Rolvenden and Tenterden a
want to do something about
tiresome affair. Surely there are
it, then please take a look at
more convenient times to start
www.letsdothisthing.info
digging up the roads, or at least
It is a petition for the creation
more direct routes we could be
of a much needed and frankly
diverted down?
For the past 10 years I’ve
overdue government run litter
HANNAH LOTTS, ROLVENDEN
been living in Australia, so on
clean-up scheme. For the sake of
Ed: Just imagine if the
my return to the UK I decided
ourselves and others, let’s sort
diversion happened in rush
that, rather than moving back
it out!
hour though…
to the Big Smoke, I’d have
ALEX THOMSON, BY EMAIL
a go at country living. Spring
Ed: Let’s get rid of the litter
was absolutely the best time
louts once and for all.
SPRING HAS SPRUNG
to come to Kent – lambs and daffodils everywhere and lots of nice National Trust properties
SPACE CASE
to explore! Discovering So
I’m delighted by the news that
magazine has been a pleasure
Wealden District Council have
too; keep up the good work!
finally taken notice of Uckfield
LAUREN NORMAN, GOUDHURST
residents when it comes to
Ed: Welcome to our part of
parking in the short and medium
the world!
stay car parks. Every time I see
TOPICAL TWITTER Abbey Farris @AbbeyFarris n Love that there was 2 great wins in the netball club tonight #tenterdennetball #tenterden Sendai @Yasmin_TI n @kanyewest come Cranbrook I’m begging you. It’s a little village in Kent. Please. Tommy @Tommy_Halsey n Feeling quite pleased that my model of Bodiam Castle got taken into the ‘best’ group today in our class, two weeks of work paid off, sweet Keith Brown @Ingenium1 n Good 15 mile walk with #BlackheathRamblers from Staplehurst to Headcorn via #MilkHouse pub in Sissinghurst Very muddy & slippery underfoot Carne Griffiths @carnegriffiths n Lovely Day out at Bedgebury Forest yesterday with the Fam x Jesse Moore @JesseMoore72 n Note to self, take keys out of car before locking it to avoid being locked out in the middle of heathfield Brenda Barrett @Brenzett n Had a great morning in Tenterden today @TenterdenTown shopping great The Real Nathan Tapp @nathanNdogg n This is a message to the people of Uckfield, East Sussex....come and spend some money in the high street! It’s dying a slow painful death! Why not tweet us yourself? We’ll print our favourites @SoMagazines
Email jconnolly@onemediauk.co.uk or write to us at SO Wealden, 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU Please be sure to include your full name and address. Letters may be edited for publication.
APRIL 2015
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13
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NEW DISCOVERY SPORT NOW WITHIN YOUR REACH www.harwoods.uk.com
ABOVE & BEYOND
Available with 6. 9% APR Representative
New Discovery Sport SE Manual. Representative example.
Meet the New Discovery Sport. Now you can own one, with manageable monthly payments. So start planning where to take it. On road. Off road. Up mountains. With its innovative design, you'll look good going there.
On The Road Price Finance Deposit Allowance Customer Deposit Total Amount of Credit Purchase Fee (included in final payment) 36 Monthly Payments Final Payment Total Amount Payable Duration of Agreement Representative APR Interest Rate (Fixed)
The interior has flexible 5+2 seating. And there's enough loadspace for a day out or a week away. Opt for the SE Tech model and you'll get lots of extras like the Power Tailgate. All this, combined with our finance package, makes family adventures even more accessible. From only £299 a month plus deposit and final payment.
£32,395.00 £0.00 £10,060.00 £22,335.00 £10.00 £299.00 £15,524.00 £36,348.00 37 Months 6.9%APR 6.72%
Call Harwoods today and find out more.
Harwoods Tonbridge Vale Rise, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1TB
01732 353637 www.harwoods.tonbridge.landrover.co.uk Official Fuel Consumption Figures for the New Discovery Sport range in mpg (l/100km): 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 figures provided are as a result 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 retailers 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, return the vehicle and not pay the Final Payment (ifthe vehicle is in good condition and has not exceeded the allowed mileage you will have nothing further to pay.lfthe vehicle has exceeded the allowed mileage a charge 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. Representative example is based upon an annual mileage of 10,000 miles. Finance is subject to status and only available to applicants aged 18 and over resident in Mainland UK and N. Ireland. This finance offer is available from Black Horse Limited trading as Land Rover Financial Services, St William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff CF10 SBH.
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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
Coupled with supple long-travel
four-cylinder turbocharged petrol and
Director and Chief Creative Officer. "I'm
suspension, the innovative rear axle
diesel engines. Both the all-alloy Si4 2.0-litre
proud to say we've achieved that; Discovery
also ensures the Discovery Sport is
petrol engine and the 2.2-litre turbodiesel
Sport's dynamic design will resonate on an
comfortable, refined and rewarding to drive
feature stop-start technology, high-
emotional level with consumers, and this
on-road, while retaining the breadth of
pressure direct injection, low-friction
vehicle is more versatile than any other
all-terrain capability for which Land Rover is
internal components and smart
premium compact SUV on the market."
world-renowned. In fact, with approach,
regenerative charging for outstanding
departure and breakover angles of 25, 31
performance and economy.
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
"Our challenge has been to combine premium design with exceptional versatility; the two attributes must work in harmony,"
vertical centre console graphic to reflect the premium design of the exterior, while the
Gerry McGovern, Land Rover Design Director and Chief Creative Officer.
core Discovery value of versatility is evident everywhere. Storage solutions are
and 21 degrees respectively, Terrain
integrated into the cabin and up to four
Response速 technology, and the ability
turbodiesel engine will join the range with
12V power points and six USB charging
to wade to 600mm, Discovery Sport offers
C0 2 emissions of just 119g/km*. Both
sockets can be specified for all three rows
class-leading capability in all conditions.
9-speed automatic and 6-speed manual
As with every new Land Rover, safety
transmissions are available, along with a
of seating, allowing multiple electronic devices to be charged simultaneously. A host of innovations have allowed Discovery Sport to introduce the versatility
has been a key priority in the development ofthe new Discovery Sport, resulting in a first-in-class pedestrian airbag, autonomous
Later in 2015, a highly efficient ED4
choice of two or four-wheel-drive. "Not only does Discovery Sport mark the introduction of the first new member of
of 5+2 seating into the premium compact
emergency braking, and a state-of-the-art
our expanding Discovery family, it also
SUV class for the first time. An all-new
bodyshell featuring both ultra-high-strength
brings the versatility of 5+2 seating to the
multi-link rear axle not only provides
steel and lightweight aluminium.
compact premium SUV market," says Phil
engaging driving dynamics but it also
This represents a fraction of the
Popham, Jaguar Land Rover Group
provides ample and flexible cabin space
advanced equipment available in Discovery
Marketing Director. "Discovery Sport's
behind the second row.
Sport, which also includes Head-Up Display,
versatility is a key differentiator. It is quite
an all-new 8-inch
simply the most accomplished vehicle in its
touchscreen
segment."
infotainment
Discovery Sport will be produced at
system, and
Land Rover's award-winning manufacturing
tilt-and-slide
facility at Halewood, Liverpool. It goes on
row-two seating
sale in early 2015 alongside the existing
for maximum
seven-seat Land Rover Discovery in over
interior
170 markets worldwide.
configurability. At launch the Discovery equipped with
Call Harwoods today or visit www.harwoods.uk.com for
a range of
more information.
Sport will be
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INTERVIEW
“AT THE MOMENT MY FAVOURITE ANIMAL IS MIKE, A KITTEN I WAS FOSTERING AT HOME BECAUSE HE WAS REALLY SICK”
“At the moment my favourite animal is Mike, a kitten I was fostering at home because he was really sick,” explains Sarah. “You do get attached to the animals, but it’s good when they go to a new home. If you’ve been nursing them through a rough patch, though, you’re inevitably going to get attached.” Finding new homes for the animals can be easy if they’re sociable and tame, but many of
CREATURE COMFORTS
the animals Sarah sees require a little more TLC. “People want sociable pets, but
From china poodles to playing with kittens, Sarah Bussel from Northiam is definitely animal mad…
unfortunately in rescue, we don’t always get that type of animal – sometimes we’re picking up the pieces,” she says. “Over my career I’ve seen all sorts of cases, from starvation to deliberate cruelty, but luckily it’s not that common. Most
WORKING WITH ADORABLE animals
centre. Her day begins at 7am with feeding
animals that come to us are from owners who
might be some people’s idea of a dream, but
the animals, but from that moment on no day
are struggling for various reasons.”
for Sarah, 44, it’s a reality. As Rehoming
is the same.
Supervisor at the Blue Cross in Northiam, her
Her main tasks involve promoting the
With animals always on the brain, Sarah finds that even in her personal life it can be hard to escape them.
role is to ensure the cats and dogs in their
animals online to help them find new homes
care are looked after and loved, while trying to
and dealing with the intake of cats and dogs,
find them new homes to go to.
but sometimes Sarah finds herself nursing
film, but at the moment I’m nursing my elderly
sick creatures back to health and even
terrier, so it’s a bit of care work when I go home
thinking up names for new intakes.
as well!” she says. “People also buy me animal
Having always been an animal lover, it wasn’t a surprise to anyone that Sarah’s
“When I go home I do like to chill out with a
related gifts a lot – my mum went through a
chosen career path was creature-centred.
“A lot of the animals do come in named, so
“Straight from school, when I was 16, I
we’re generally naming the strays or litters of
phase of buying me T-shirts with dogs on and
went to work in an animal sanctuary,” Sarah
puppies and kittens,” Sarah explains.
those china ornaments of cats and poodles. I
says. “My parents were farmers so I grew up
“You can normally tell the staff named
had to have a chat with her in the end!”
surrounded by animals and I was always
animals because the new owners quickly
interested in them. Sadly for my dad, I chose
rename them!”
to go into animal welfare rather than farming though!” Relocating from Devon to East Sussex in 2014, Sarah now lives on site at the rehoming
18
Despite trying not to get emotionally involved with the animals at the centre, Sarah
The question is, after years working with both species, is Sarah a dog or a cat person? “I think I sit in the middle actually,” she says with a laugh. “I like both!”
admits it can be tough not to form a bond with them.
www.bluecross.org.uk
APRIL 2015
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APRIL 2015
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EVENTS
SO
APRIL
CALENDAR 1ST SOCIETY SHOWCASE Come and see some of Tunbridge Wells’ finest artwork when it’s showcased in the town. Until April 12, The Royal Tunbridge Wells Art Society will be displaying their Spring Exhibition at 61 The Pantiles, including original works by professional and amateurs alike. Following on from the successful winter display, the showcase will include seasonal entries from local artists. Admission is free to the show, which is open from 10am to 5.30pm daily. For more information, visit www.rtwas.org
3RD TREAT TRAIL
3RD CRIME AND DINE
3RD STEAMING UP
Eggsplore the grounds of Knole this Easter when
Enjoy a meal with a twist, when
To commemorate locomotive no. 32678’s
they hold their Easter egg hunt on April 3 and 4.
Moneypenny Productions present a
75th anniversary on the line, Kent and
Those in search of chocolate treats can join
murder mystery evening. Held at the
East Sussex Railway are holding an
the ‘You’ll Never Believe it’ trail, where
Mercure Hotel in Tunbridge Wells,
Easter weekend of celebrations at their
participants take on the role of journalists who
guests will spend the night working
Easter Steam Up. From Good Friday (April
must spot what’s fact and what’s fiction
out whodunit over a three-course meal
3) to Bank Holiday Monday April 6, guests can visit the 135-year-old engine and ride
throughout the medieval grounds, before
as they turn detective. Dr Syn and his
being rewarded with a Cadbury’s chocolate
band of buccaneers will hold you
the tracks to Bodiam station where the
surprise at the end. Normal admission
hostage until you can discover who
steam trains will be joined by a collection
prices apply and the trail
committed the crime. The fun begins
of miniature traction engines. Usual ride
costs £3 to enter.
at 7pm and tickets cost £32.95. Call
prices apply. To book, call 01580 765 155
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole
0844 8159 074 to book.
or visit www.kesr.org APRIL 2015
SO TW_APRIL15_Calendar.indd 3
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EVENTS
17TH TREAT TIME Give Mary Berry a run for her money and bake some tasty treats at Penshurst Place’s Spring Cupcake Creations day. Join a chef in the medieval buttery who will teach you how to make your own masterpieces. At the end of the class you’ll be able to take away six homemade cupcakes in a presentation box. The session begins at 10.30am and lasts for two hours. Tickets cost £16 and are bookable at www.penshurstplace.com
8TH WONDERFUL WEDDINGS
10TH STAR APPEARANCE
17TH TAVERNA TALENTS Having performed all over the world, from
Spend an evening in wedded bliss at
Join TV actress Josephine Tewson on a
Salomon’s Estate in Tunbridge Wells, when
hilarious journey as she hosts a talk show at
Paris to Tokyo, critically acclaimed pianist
they host their annual Fabulous Wedding
the Stag Theatre in Sevenoaks. Still Keeping
Alessandro Taverna is set to play a little closer to home when he brings his musical talents to
Showcase. Between 6pm and 9pm, enjoy
up Appearances? is set to be an entertaining
Champagne and canapés as you meet local
evening as Josephine regales the audience
Frant Church for a recital evening. Part of
suppliers who have everything on hand to
with tales of her time in TV sitcoms such as
their International Music Festival 2015, the
help make your wedding day wonderful.
Keeping up Appearances and Last of the
concert includes compositions by Beethoven,
Entry is free. To register your
Summer Wine. The show begins at 7.30pm
Debussy, Rachmaninov and Liszt and begins
attendance or for any enquiries
and tickets cost £10.50/£12.50.
at 8pm. Tickets cost £16 and are available at
call 01892 515 152 or email
To book, call 01732 450 175 or visit
www.wegottickets.com or by
reservations@salomons-estate.com
www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk
calling 01892 750 665.
22
APRIL 2015
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EVENTS
SO
25TH CREATURE QUEST Spend a weekend catching creepy crawlies and seeking out insects during Bewl Water’s Bug Hunt event. From 10am Wednesday April 25 and Thursday April 26, children can grab a jar and net and join in the hunt, where they’ll discover many different species. Throughout the weekend there will be kids’ entertainment, including a puppet show, fishing and craft activities. Normal admission prices apply. For more information, visit www.bewlwater.co.uk
22ND FLOWER FESTIVAL
25TH MONROE SHOW
If you fancy taking on a challenge this month,
Cancel that trip to Amsterdam and head to
See Marilyn Monroe as you’ve never seen her
then dig out that bike and get pedalling for
Ticehurst instead for Pashley Manor’s tulip
before and learn about her untimely demise in
Hospice in the Weald’s Wheels Around the
festival. Every Wednesday from April 22 to
The Unremarkable Death of Marilyn Monroe at
Weald day. Adults can choose the 15, 40 or
May 4 the garden will be open, boasting an
the Queen’s Hall Theatre, Cranbrook. The
80-mile cycle route through the Wealden
array of beautiful blooms, with over 25,000
one-woman performance created by Dyad
countryside, or families can ride the 15-mile
tulips on display in the grounds. In addition,
Productions, the team behind Austen’s Women,
18TH CHARITY CYCLE
path together to raise money for the charity.
gardening experts from Bloms Bulbs will be
is a candid look at the star’s life behind
Those who enter early are also entitled to
on hand to answer any questions and will be
closed doors, revealing what they think really
25% off a bike service at The Velo House
displaying over 2,000 cut tulips.
happened on the night she died. Tickets cost
in Tunbridge Wells. To take part visit
Admission is £10. For more
£10/£6 and the show begins at 8pm. To book,
www.hospiceintheweald.org.uk
information call 01580 200 888.
visit www.queenshalltheatre.co.uk
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Laser Clay Shooting- 拢5 Mini Land Rover Experience -拢10 Penalty Shoot Out and Team Tag Races*
=路
~~=路
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ADVERTORIAL
SO
BACKTOBUSINESS A Corporate Law specialist has returned to Warners Solicitors in Tonbridge. We find out how Associate Solicitor, Russell Brinkhurst, has been welcomed back to the local firm with open arms SOUTH EAST BASED law firm, Warners Solicitors, has announced that Russell Brinkhurst
based in the North East of England. “We are delighted to welcome Russell back to
is returning to the firm as an Associate Solicitor.
the firm,” says Jonathan Roberts, head of the
Russell started his career at Warners in 2005 and
corporate team at Warners. “Russell’s extensive
has decided to re-join after a short spell working
experience, combined with his legal skills and
for a firm in Sussex.
pragmatic approach, further strengthens and
Russell has eight years’ experience as a
complements the team at Warners. Russell is
solicitor and specialises in corporate and
already re-connecting and re-establishing many of
commercial work. During his career, he has
the client and professional relationships
advised on a number of complex transactions,
that he enjoyed when he was previously
including: advising the majority shareholders of a
at the firm.”
niche software development business in
MAN OF THE HOUR
Introducing Russell Brinkhurst, Associate Solicitor at Warners Solicitors in Tonbridge
connection with a buyout of investor
Warners Solicitors
shareholders; acting for a retailer on the sale of
Bank House, Bank Street, Tonbridge, Kent
one of its stores for £3million; and being
TN9 1BL
instructed by administrators to act on their behalf
01732 770 660
in connection with the administration sale of
www.warners-solicitors.co.uk
a specialist vehicle manufacturing business
clientservices@warners-solicitors.co.uk
WHAT DO YOU SPECIALISE IN?
HOW DO YOU STAND OUT TO CLIENTS?
Corporate and commercial law. I work with
Solicitors often give the impression of being
businesses, advising them on the day to day legal
unapproachable and overly academic, not
issues they face, such as advising on commercial
appreciating the practical issues that businesses
contracts. I also advise on corporate transactions
face on a day to day basis. My aim and that of the
when clients decide to acquire or dispose of a
corporate team at Warners is to ensure that we are
company or business.
available to clients to offer pragmatic and commercially realistic advice in the most cost
WHICH PART OF YOUR JOB GIVES YOU
effective way possible.
THE MOST SATISFACTION? After long days and plenty of hard work, completing
TELL US A LITTLE KNOWN SECRET
a transaction on time for a client is great. It is also
ABOUT THIS BUSINESS THAT
really satisfying when clients go on to personally
CUSTOMERS WOULDN’T KNOW
recommend me or Warners to their contacts. In my
The origins of Warners can be traced back to 1785,
view, doing a good job for a client is the best kind of
but as times have changed, Warners has evolved
marketing a business can do.
into a modern and innovative business with both local and international clients. However, Warners’
WHY DID YOU START WORKING
heritage is not forgotten and even today manifests
AT WARNERS?
itself in the firm’s ethos of building strong and
I joined nearly 10 years ago after law school as a
lasting relationships with its clients that stand the
trainee solicitor and stayed with the firm when I
test of time.
qualified. After a short spell at another law firm in Sussex, I recently re-joined Warners as an Associate Solicitor. There is a supportive culture at
For more information, please contact
Warners, where all members of staff, support staff
Russell by calling 01732 770 660, emailing
and lawyers work as a team to look after clients
r.brinkhurst@warners-solicitors.co.uk
and take pride in delivering great service.
or visiting www.warners-solicitors.co.uk
APRIL 2015
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SO
APRIL
THIS MONTH
YOU SHOULD SCATTER… Romantic gestures don’t come much bigger than this – surprise your loved one by letting them wake up to a lawn carpeted with rose petals. For a truly unexpected amorous moment, this is hard to beat. Bear in mind, though, to keep an eye on the budget if you’re also planning to pop the question, as there might not be much left over to buy the ring after you’ve splashed out on this thoughtful tribute. Covering a 600sq ft garden will set you back £70,000, though you will get 1.2million rose petals and a lifetime’s worth of Brownie points. Or you could move to a smaller house… www.veryfirstto.com
READ…
LISTEN...
WATCH…
Bestselling crime writer Jo Nesbo returns with
It’s always interesting when a band records
Interstellar may not have received any acting
another gripping thriller. Hitman Olav lives a lonely
new material after a long absence, so Blur’s
nominations in this year’s Oscars, but it earned five
life as a ‘fixer’, unable to get close to anyone due
first studio album in 12 years ought to be
in technical categories and won the statuette for
to the nature of the job. Now he has a chance to
worth a listen. As a leading force in the Britpop
Best Visual Effects. You can find out why critics
be happy, having finally met the woman of his
movement of the 1990s, Blur provided the
and audiences alike love this movie, now that it’s available on DVD. Matthew McConaughey stars as
dreams, but there’s a hitch – not only is the lady
teen soundtrack for a generation – will their
his boss’s wife, but Olav has just been contracted
music have matured along with their original
an astronaut who is dispatched from a resource-
to kill her. Prepare for another rollercoaster ride
fan base? The album is released on April 27,
depleted Earth to find out whether a wormhole in
from the acclaimed author as Olav struggles to
so pop a copy on the stereo (or download from
space could lead to a new home for humans. The
solve his dilemma. Published on April 9, Blood on
online stores, if you’re more ‘with it’) and form
cast also features Michael Caine, Jessica Chastain
Snow is available for £10.99 at
your own verdict. Available on CD and vinyl at
and Anne Hathaway. Available from
www.waterstones.com
www.play.com, priced from £10.98.
www.amazon.co.uk priced from £10.
26
APRIL 2015
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THIS MONTH YOU SHOULD
SO
RIDE… Those who are fond of pulling wheelies may have found the bike for them in the new single-wheeled RYNO, due for release later this year. The mono marvel, aimed at the same market as Segways, uses a low centre of gravity to maintain balance from front to back, while the rider adjusts the side-toside equilibrium and leans over to change
CARRY… Bright colours are not the only way to add some zing to
direction. Like Segways, the battery powered RYNO can
your outfit this spring. Ideal for any occasion, the new Turn
travel at a maximum speed of
Around mono striped handbag from Marc by Marc Jacobs
10mph and a six-hour charge
is eye-catching without the eye-watering neon hues. The
provides enough power for
shoulder strap and roomy interior make it practical as well
a 10-mile journey. Pre-order
as stylish, so snap up this ‘must have’ accessory before it
yours for around £3,400 at
sells out. Get yours for £485 at www.net-a-porter.com
www.rynomotors.com
EAT… Sometimes, when you’re peckish, you just need a snack and money is no object. Chef Richard Shaw must have been hoping for some pretty hungry punters, though, when he came up with his Very Important Pasty – which costs £230. Created to compete in the World Pasty Championship, held in Cornwall last month, the pricy pastry will fill a hole but empty your wallet. Richard, from Southwick in Hampshire, sourced top ingredients from all over the world, including wagyu steak from Japan, which costs £500 per kilo. He made three of the Westcountry wonders – one for the competition, one for his family to feast on and the third to auction off for charity.
GIVE… If you missed Mother’s Day or forgot your Valentine, now is the time to make amends with a truly egg-cellent Easter gift. Even the hardest heart will melt when they unwrap Hotel Chocolat’s sumptuous Ostrich Egg on Easter Sunday (April 5) and discover all the goodies hidden inside. Weighing in at a hefty 1.1kg – heavier than a bag of sugar and containing goodness knows how much of the tasty white stuff – the decadent offering is filled with smaller eggs and chocolates, so anyone with a sweet tooth will be in heaven. At £70 it’s no cheap treat, but you’ll be flavour of the month. www.hotelchocolat.com
APRIL 2015
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RANT
SO
ON THE WRONG WAVELENGTH Here’s where readers express their opinions on contentious local issues. This month, Gabrielle from Tunbridge Wells wonders if campaigning for commuters to get free Wifi on trains should be a political priority
probably be familiar with the term
A
when, a few weeks ago, I read about MP Greg
work without the need to be connected for every
‘#firstworldproblems’. This tongue-in-cheek
Clark’s campaign to make sure Tunbridge Wells
moment of the day. Technology already intrudes
reference often follows any complaint or
services don’t miss out on Southeastern’s pledge
so much on our lives and for all the benefits it
observation that strikes the self-deprecating writer
to make free Wifi available on some trains. He
brings, many of us now find that there is no time
as a little bit unnecessary, or as having somewhat
used words like ‘insist’ and ‘demand’ when
– whether you’re lying on a beach, going on
lost perspective on the world’s greater, rather
describing TW commuters’ inherent right to
more pressing dilemmas.
connect their laptops, smartphones and tablets
I found myself mentally applying that hashtag
nyone who uses Twitter or Facebook will
For example, if someone tweets ‘The sandwich
to prepare to ensure you can get on with some
during every single second of their journey. The
shop used the wrong type of dressing on my salad
idea that people might lose connectivity via their
again’, or ‘oh no, I picked up Colombian coffee
cellular networks when the train whizzed through a
granules instead of Costa Rican!’, they might
tunnel or hit a particularly remote spot seemed to
decide to poke a little fun at themselves by
be unthinkable to him – he said it was “a bit crazy”
following the remark with ‘#firstworldproblems’.
that people travelling on some buses in town could
Bearing in mind they could be starving or dying of
use Wifi, but not commuters heading to London. I was struck by the forcefulness of his language;
thirst – and that somewhere in the world, at that very moment, someone will be dying for lack of a
the words Mr Clark chose are the kind that I would
little stale bread or water – it’s a small, humorous
expect him to use when lobbying to improve
recognition of the fact that life could be a lot worse.
hygiene in hospitals, shelters for the homeless or education for special needs children. All things that
There’s simply no ‘down time’ anymore. Would it be so terrible to put the computer aside for a little while in the mornings?
I would agree are basic human rights that should
retreat or even relishing your honeymoon – when
be ‘insisted upon’ and ‘demanded’. I apologise if
you cannot be pestered by colleagues or clients
the rest of the world feels differently, but not being
and expected to reply, because they know you
able to manage for an hour or two without
have the means to do so.
checking your emails doesn’t strike me as being one of those essential rights. As an office worker who occasionally attends
There’s simply no ‘down time’ anymore. Would it be so terrible to put the computer aside for a little while in the mornings, tell yourself the emails can
meetings in London and further afield, I
wait until you get to the office and pick up a good
understand how sitting on a train for part of your
book instead? I certainly think so and perhaps it’s
day can feel like a waste of working time. But if
time that MPs also took a look at the bigger picture
you know the journey is coming, there are ways
every now and then.
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.
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CELEBRITY
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DAVID GANDY
MODEL BEHAVIOUR
Consider David Gandy – even if you don’t know his name, you’ll probably know his perfectly chiselled face. He earns £1million per year, he claims that David Beckham copies him and he turned down the lead role in Fifty Shades of Grey. Consistently voted one of the world’s sexiest men, it seems that he’s done pretty well from modelling underpants. So, why is the British supermodel so determined to escape the fashion world and make his mark in business?
W
e’ve all seen the advert – an impossibly
jealousy aside, it’s easy to see why someone whose career
toned and bronzed young man stands on the
currently depends on their looks might want to consider the
edge of a cliff, gazing down at a boat floating
future, particularly when there’s no shortage of good-looking
on a glittering azure blue sea. He’s an Adonis,
young men waiting to fill his, er, trunks.
a timeless vision of physical perfection; in the boat lies an
“Models are as popular as bankers! You’re seen as a
equally gorgeous young woman, awaiting his arrival. We’re
brainless idiot – paid a fortune to do very little. I don’t want to
treated to a lingering shot of his rather snug white trunks, before
just be known as the man in the pants.”
he dives into the water and powers his way through the waves,
He’s referring in particular to the Dolce & Gabbana underwear
to be greeted with a passionate kiss from his adoring lady. And
ad that shot him to fame in 2006. He’d already been in the
then the advert ends and it’s back to reality.
business for about four years at that time, after winning an
Chances are, the film – advertising Dolce & Gabbana’s Light
amateur modelling competition on ITV’s This Morning. Born in
Blue fragrance – made you rather cross, particularly if you were
Billericay, Gandy had harboured dreams of becoming a vet but
feeling a bit fat that day. But the man on the cliff is not an
wasn’t able to make the grades; instead, he’d been studying
impossible ideal, nor a computer-generated cheat created to
Multimedia Computing at university when his housemate
make us mortals feel like whales. He’s real and his name is
entered him into the contest, without his knowledge.
David Gandy, an Essex boy made good who, dissatisfied with
Gandy was victorious and won a contract with the major Select
simply being handsome, successful and very wealthy, has
Model Management Agency. But his muscular, rather rugged look
announced his intention to make it big in business, in order to
had been proving unpopular in the midst of a trend for slender,
prove he’s got a brain as well.
androgynous male models. However, one glance at his first
At this point one might ask, “if he’s so rich already, why
campaign for D&G and the fashion world’s head was turned. He’s
bother?” But Gandy, 35, claims to have grown tired of the airhead
been the designer brand’s muse ever since and hasn’t done much
image endured by his profession and wants to show the world
to shake off the underwear connection, having designed his own
that his abilities extend beyond walking, posing and pouting. Petty
range of briefs for Marks & Spencer last year.
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CELEBRITY
SO
me? No. It just didn’t feel right, in any way. And in my gut, it felt right to say no.” However, he’s not lacking a sense of humour and a willingness to laugh at himself. Last month it was announced that Gandy had been cast in the upcoming film version of Absolutely Fabulous, Jennifer Saunders’ hit 1990s sitcom that made merciless fun of the fashion and PR world. In 2013 he founded the Blue Steel Appeal, a charitable foundation that aims to raise money for Comic Relief – the fund takes its name from Ben Stiller’s 2001 film Zoolander, which parodied the pretensions of models and featured the lead character’s famous ‘Blue Steel’ facial expression. “Male models have never had the cultural credentials of film stars or sports stars, and all those stars now want to model. They want a fragrance campaign, a clothing campaign, a beauty line – and, whatever they say, that’s modelling. No one seems willing now to take a chance on a brand new face, like Dolce & Gabbana did with me.” It looks like Gandy is willing to share the secrets of his success, however and this is set to form the basis for one of his new business ventures. Later this year, he’s due to launch his own line of wellness and nutrition bars, to help remedy a nation that he believes is “nutritionally inept”. When striving for the perfect body, he says hydration is key and there are no short cuts.
“MY PERFECTIONISM CAN MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO LIVE WITH ME. THINGS HAVE TO BE PERFECT. THAT’S INCREDIBLY HARD TO LIVE WITH IF YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND IT” “It seemed natural to do my own
competition, though, and hopefully people
underwear range. In many ways that’s what
should be proud there are two Essex boys
I became known for.”
taking on the world, promoting Britishness.”
But it’s been a lucrative move and as the
Gandy has already made moves to be
second highest paid male model in the world
viewed as more than just a clothes horse –
– beaten only by American, Sean O’Pry – he’s
he’s branched out into the media, by writing
believed to have taken home around
a blog for Vogue, motor reviews for GQ and
£1million last year. Recently he’s graced the
lifestyle columns for The Telegraph. It also
covers of the world’s trendiest magazines
appears that money is not his main
and no poll of attractive or stylish men is
motivation, as he’s turned down a number
complete without his name hovering near
of lucrative film roles, most of which would
the top. His physique, while not particularly
have featured an emphasis on his physique.
similar to the average man’s, has been
The latest was unquestionably the year’s
credited with turning the tide against skinny
most talked about movie, Fifty Shades of
male models; in fact, there’s one particular
Grey, in which Gandy’s body may have been
icon whose career Gandy believes has been
the biggest star. It’s no surprise that when
personally influenced by his own activities.
casting an attractive, charismatic billionaire,
“I did the white pants and then he [David Beckham] did Armani. I became an ambassador for whiskey and now he has his whiskey brand… I don’t think we’re in
the producers thought of Gandy, but he was not keen to cash in on the hype. “Critics and literary experts aren’t fans but I respect it for what it is. But was it right for
The world’s highest paid male model, Sean O’Pry
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CELEBRITY
“It’s very simple, just stay away from processed foods and eat as many fruit and vegetables as you can… There are no clever cheats to bring you the results you want, but small changes can make a difference.” He’s put his money where our mouths are by investing in a sugar-free whey protein ice cream called Wheyley, although his experience seems most relevant to luxury footwear brand David Preston, which he bought after falling in love with a pair of their Chelsea boots. Style is obviously important to Gandy and not just for professional purposes; often heard singing the praises of ‘the gentleman’, he likes to be seen as an old-fashioned type of guy. “‘We’ve become so obsessed by boys. There’s almost a backlash against true men. Where are the Paul Newmans or Steve McQueens of the world?” Perhaps surprisingly, given his high profile as a desirable male, Gandy seems to take the gentlemen’s code seriously and is not renowned for a particularly outrageous love life. Last year he reunited with former girlfriend Mollie King, of pop group The Saturdays, 32
APRIL 2015
following a 10-month affair back in 2011 and the two appear to be going strong, despite the critical streak that he says caused their initial breakdown. “My perfectionism can make it difficult. Things have to be perfect - everything in the house, every car I buy. That’s incredibly hard to live with if you don’t understand it.” While there are thousands of women who would be prepared to put up with David Gandy’s perfectionism, it remains to be seen whether he will make it count in the world of business. Whatever happens, he’ll always be ‘the man in the pants’ to his fans and that can’t really be bad.
DAVID GANDY BY NUMBERS Age: 35 Height: 6ft 3in Waist: 33 in Shoe size: 10 Marriages: 0 Children: 0 Estimated fortune: £7million
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At Granite Transformations, we offer a complete package for updating your kitchen work surfaces, splashbacks, cabinet doors and appliances. Fitting stunning new worktops is fast and effective, with each top custom-made to your exact specifications. There is no need to remove your old worktops, since we simply fit our beautiful, hardwearing surfaces straight on top, meaning no dust, debris or disruption and ensuring complete peace of mind. To complete the new look, we can also supply and fit made-to-measure replacement cabinet doors and drawer fronts in a wide choice of colours, finishes and styles. Visit our showroom, or call to book a free home consultation, and we'll show you how easy it is to transform your kitchen with our granite, quartz, recycled glass and porcelain worktops.
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CONFIDENTIAL BY TACITUS
NOTHING ESCAPES OUR ATTENTION
WHO regrets having his drunken exploits captured on film? This new husband left his poorly (and teetotal) wife at home while he partied, only for his antics to be posted on Facebook. The video was deleted by the time he got home, but… Outraged wife had already seen it and waited up for three hours to confront him!
WHY
WHICH
WHO
WHICH
should this faithless wife be
picky shopper needs
should pay more attention
matron of honour ended up
more generous with her tips?
to wear her glasses?
to the state of his hosiery?
blushing more than the bride?
The money madam takes her
When she failed to find what she
This immaculately
After arranging a hen party for
‘friends’ to a favourite local
was looking for in a high street
presented fashion fan likes
her sister, the tardy maid
restaurant when hubby is out of
chemist, the lady turned to a
to brag about his expensive
turned up two hours late,
town, relying on the discretion of
member of staff and issued a
suits, but when asked to
blaming work and traffic.
the staff. Fed up with getting the
two-minute rant about the poor
remove his shoes to save a
Unfortunately, a mutual friend
same £2 tip even on hefty bills,
layout of the store. To which the
friend’s new carpet, he
had spotted her drinking in her
one waiter decided to have a
‘worker’ listened patiently, before
refused. All became clear
local all afternoon. Forget the
slip of the tongue when hubby
saying, “Tell someone who cares,
when he finally took off his
bride’s garter – it was the air
popped in. Everyone has
dear, I just shop here” and went
£200 brogues to reveal
that turned blue when she
their price, madam.
off to pay for his purchases. Ouch.
holey socks!
finally arrived…
WHOSE
WHY
WHICH
WHY
reputation as a
is the bride from
dog owner needs to
is this builder avoiding
Lothario is in tatters?
hell playing dirty?
learn a new trick?
his in-laws?
This country gent has been
After replacing her fiancé’s
Both she and her neighbours have
They took pity on him after he was
spreading rumours that suggest
engagement diamond with a bigger
Labradors and for months she’s
made redundant and lent him £8,000
he’s never without a date – so
stone, now she’s got her veil in a
been emptying her poop-scoop
to buy a van so he could set up his
why did one lucky lady bump into
twist over the venue. On finding
over their fence, leaving them
own business. Funnily enough, the
him at a lonely hearts club? After
her dream church is already
to assume it’s their mess to
van hasn’t turned up yet – but the
a brief chat, guests could choose
booked out on her preferred date,
clean up. The problem?
man and his wife are due back from
who to spend the rest of the
she’s been trying to gazump the
They’ve just moved out and
their surprise trip to Mexico soon.
evening with. Sadly, the famous
unsuspecting couple with a higher
the new residents have a
We think there might be a welcome
Romeo didn’t find a Juliet.
bid. Hold firm, Reverend!
dachshund. Size matters, my dear.
committee at the airport.
Got a rumour? Pass it on via confidential@onemediauk.co.uk We never reveal our sources
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liSE JACOBSEN HORNBkK
No 6. High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells TN1 1 UX I Tel: 01892 537 241 www.ilsejacobsen.com I ~ ILSE JACOBSEN UK I cllseJacobsenUK
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THE LOOK
SO
DIRECT FROM THE FRONT ROW If you want to keep in step with this year’s trends, London Fashion Week is the only place to be. Of course, So magazine was right in the front row to bring you the hottest news from the runway. Catherine de Crèvecoeur reports direct from Somerset House’s prestigious catwalk shows to reveal your wardrobe’s ‘most wanted’ for the coming seasons
MARGARET HOWELL
MASCULINE TAILORING With its classic, effortless edge, this trend continues to make easy, chic outfit options for work and weekends.
A
ROKSANDA
ISSA
FAUX FUR
FRINGING
From bags to scarves and coats, faux fur’s ever increasing presence was felt throughout the season, as it becomes a ‘must have’ for any winter wardrobe.
Spotted as one of the key embellishment trends this season, long and colourful or short and cowboy style, fringing came in a variety of forms.
fter months of preparation, hundreds of
again made bold statements and balanced on
fabrications, refined tailoring, rich surfaces,
runway shows, thousands of photographs
the line between controversy and extravagance.
dreamy embellishments, cosy knitwear,
and an endless amount of style inspiration,
This season, we saw many of them take us
another triumphant London Fashion Week
on a personal journey, often reflecting back on
finally came to a close. Some of the most
their roots and upbringing to find inspiration for
recognised designers – as well as emerging
their new Autumn/Winter 2015 collections.
talents taking hold of the British capital – once
The result of this is incredible texture and
exaggerated quilting and extra-long coats.
Catherine de Crèvecoeur .
PERSONAL STYLIST www.stylepourmoi.com
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THE LOOK
ERDEM
40
AMANDA WAKELEY
DAKS
SHOW THE KNEE
LEATHER
The midi skirt certainly remains a strong trend, but this time, a long off-centre split showing a bit of knee is predicted to be a big hit for AW15.
Be it the classic biker jacket or the sexy mini, leather was a key trend, teamed with florals and cosy knits to soften the ‘tough girl’ edge.
LONG COATS Elegant and sophisticated, the long, oversized coat is still a classic item but now there’s a certain cocooning element to it; the bigger, the better for comfy layering.
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J. JS. LEE
EMILIA WICKSTEAD
THE LOOK
SO
MATTHEW WILLIAMSON
TANGERINE ORANGE
QUILTING From bomber jackets to evening wear, quilting has been worked into collections, reinforcing the sport luxe trend.
This bold and vibrant colour was injected throughout the collections, particularly on statement coats and dresses.
CLASHING PRINTS Forget the old mantra to never clash â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the modern way is to do just that, as many designers showed us this season.
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DESIGNER BRANDS FOR UP TO 60o/o LESS. ALL YEAR ROUND. Ashford DesignerOutlet.com
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SPRING WISHLIST Here are some of our favourite ideas for those new season fashion and beauty ‘must haves’
VACANT CLOTHING PRICES FROM £20 TO £70
Looking for something different? Pop into Vacant in The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, where you’ll find an exciting, unique selection of dresses and tops. Choose from their own labels, Pretty Vacant and Circus, or from selected chosen brands including Traffic People and Religion. www.vacantclothing.co.uk
WELLINGHAM HERB CO
PURPLE PIGLET SCARVES
SPRING WATERCOLOUR SCARF, £21 A gorgeous showstopping piece that will be the perfect addition to your wardrobe. Purple Piglet Scarves is your one-stop shop for scarves, wristees, bamboo socks, French body art and more. They bring a dash of colour, every day. Find Lynne at Royal Victoria Place Shopping Centre, Tunbridge Wells. www.purplepigletscarves.co.uk
ENGLISH HANDMADE SOAP
HONEY & LEMONGRASS SOAP, £4.50 Fresh, handmade and smelling divine, ditch the wasteful shower gel and treat yourself to a bar of traditional, long-lasting, gorgeous smelling soap. Available in a variety of fragrances from this boutique soap emporium based in Surrey, all items are individually made and wrapped by hand. www.englishhandmadesoap.com
CRYSTAL & STONE JEWELLERY
SIGNATURE HAMMERED HOOPS, £25 These are big favourites – be on trend this spring in these fabulous hoops. The fact that they’re hand-forged just adds to their charm. Available in yellow or rose gold fill, as well as sterling silver, these are the perfect size for work or play. www.crystalstonelondon.co.uk
LOVELL & VIE
HAND & BODY LOTION, £12.95 Beautifully rich organic, moisturising hand and body lotions are blended with a base of three oils: Olive, Sunflower and Linseed with Shea butter and Aloe Vera. They come in four heavenly fragrances, made with pure essential oils such as Lemongrass, English Lavender and Lemon. www.wellinghamherbco.co.uk
MARIE JO AVERO BRA, £64 In 2013, Serena and Kari’s stylish independent boutique opened at 46 Holly Bush Lane, Sevenoaks, selling a wide range of gorgeous lingerie and swimwear. They offer a professional fitting service and you are assured of a warm and friendly welcome and their personal attention. www.lovellandvie.co.uk
ECLECTICA
ROBERT DEMARIO NECKLACE, £350 Here you’ll find exquisite vintage costume jewellery for modern women, personally sourced by founder Liz Wilson. This statement necklace made by Robert Demario in the 1950s is right on trend. Bursting with feel good factor, why not purchase this ‘one off’ piece? www.eclectica.biz
AMELIA JANE LONDON
POM POM BOBBLE HAT, £28 One of our top picks for chilly spring days is this fur pom pom bobble hat from Amelia Jane London. Spotted on celebrities from Myleene Klass to Cara Delevingne, we love their pastel shades for spring chic style! Available in 11 delicious colours with interchangeable pom poms. www.ameliajanelondon.com
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WALKING~:J~
WOUNDED CYCLE HORSMONDEN
SUNDAY 3rd MAY 2015
CYCLE
HORSMONDEN www.cyclehorsmonden.com
~ ~~ 44
ARTEMIS T he
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ROYAl TUNBRIDGE WEllS
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Ladies Designer Wear, Accessories and Shoes
Kitch one stop holiday shop is back! Come and see all the new beach and holiday wear we have on offer; Melissa Odabash, Beth & Tracie and Miss June, to name a few and not forgetting Tom Ford and Balenciaga sunglasses. 1 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1UL
01892 513 613 www.kitchclothing.co. uk
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THE LOOK
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BEAUTY BULLETIN WE BRING YOU THE LATEST HEADLINES FROM THE BEAUTY WORLD
ROYAL SEAL OF APPROVAL
A
s the Duchess of Cambridge nears the end of her second pregnancy, many other mums will be envying her flawless complexion. But although money is no object when it comes
to the future Queen’s beauty regime, it seems that a bargain high street balm is her key to glowing skin. Kate Middleton is reportedly a huge fan of Nivea Visage Pure and Natural Moisturising Day Cream, which comes in at a budget-friendly £5.35. Apparently she’s been spotted stocking up on the lotion at a high street chemist in Chelsea and she’s not the only one – Victoria Beckham is also rumoured to be fond of the cheap and cheerful product.
WEIGHTY SUBJECT
BEST IN SHOW
British people are more likely to describe themselves as
The recent Professional Beauty Show saw thousands of visitors
being overweight than almost
flocking to London’s Excel to discover the latest innovations. Also
any other nation, according to
taking place during the weekend were the Professional Beauty
new research.
Awards, which recognise the best in the business. The winners
In a study by Neilsen,
were announced at a glittering ceremony in the capital, but the
researchers found that 60%
victors came from all over the country – with awards distributed as
of Brits consider themselves
far afield as Edinburgh, Tyne and Wear, and Wiltshire.
to be ‘a little overweight’,
Businesses from London claimed only four of the 12 accolades:
with 22% going so far as
Coco Nail Bar in Notting Hill was named Nail Salon of the Year, while
to say they are ‘somewhat
the Urban Retreat at Harrods won Best Beauty Salon (with more
overweight’. Irish people are
than four rooms), EF Medispa
the heaviest, though
picked up the Medical Aesthetic
(at least in their eyes), with
Clinic of the Year and freelance
62% stating that they tip the
make-up specialist Tamara
scales too far.
Tott was declared the best in
If you’re Russian or Polish,
her field.
however, you’re much more
Companies in Surrey – Pennyhill
likely to be confident about
Park Hotel and Spa, and Foxhills
your body shape – people
– claimed both of the Residential
from these countries are less
Spa of the Year awards (large
likely to say they’re carrying
and small). The Grange Spa in
extra pounds, with only
Sleaford, Lincolnshire, claimed
40% and 35% respectively
the Day Spa of the Year gong.
considering themselves to
www.professionalbeauty.co.uk
be overweight. APRIL 2015
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THE LOOK
BARGAINS BLASTED
P
aying a realistic price to
makeup brands such as MAC and
ensure you get genuine
Benefit. Fake beauty products
beauty products could be
could damage your skin, the
worth more than money.
association says, so always buy
The Cosmetic, Toiletry and
from a reputable source.
Perfume Association (CTPA)
“The problem with counterfeit
has urged consumers to make
products is that the packaging
sure they buy the real thing
and look of it can be almost
and warned against paying
impossible to tell apart from
knock-down prices for knock-
the real thing,” says a CTPA
off goods. The statement came
spokesman. “Unfortunately, the
following an operation by Trading
product inside is nothing like
Standards to seize counterfeit
the genuine product. Not only is
beauty products from a shop
it unlikely to work as well as it
in Warwickshire – the business
should, it may actually be unsafe
was selling imitations of top
and cause you harm.”
BEAUTY BATTLE
L
ooking your best during wartime was pretty tough but British women were determined to remain glamorous, as a new exhibition reveals. Fashion on the Ration: 1940s Street Style discovers
how ladies fought back against extreme austerity to retain their femininity and self-esteem. But they weren’t just doing it for themselves – looking good was considered a woman’s duty to the nation. Not only were attractive wives and girlfriends a great morale boost for fighting men on leave, it was also wellknown that Adolf Hitler despised the use of cosmetics. Anything that supported the war effort was important, but keeping up appearances wasn’t easy. After an initial flurry of patriotically packaged cosmetics in the early days of the war, shortages kicked in and supplies ran out, forcing females to be ever more creative with their beauty regimes. Ideas like using gravy granules to paint ‘stockings’ on their legs and beetroot to rouge their lips and cheeks are now legendary, but did you know some girls made jewellery from airplane parts? Cosmetics firms wanted to make sure the budget solutions didn’t last beyond the end of the war, however. Although they were unable to actually supply makeup for much of the conflict, big brands continued to advertise their products and encourage women to make their dwindling supplies last, until fresh consignments eventually hit the shops once again. Magazines such as Vogue urged ladies to stay stylish and not let standards slip, and in a Government memo, makeup was described as being as important to women as tobacco was to men. This fascinating exhibition sheds light on how British females rose to the challenge of remaining beautiful on a shoestring, even as the world was rocked by war. Fashion on the Ration: 1940s Street Style runs at the Imperial War Museum in London until August 31. www.iwm.org.uk
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49a High Street, 2nd Floor Tunbridge Wells, KentTN11 XU T: +44 (0)1892 540055 www.aromahousetunbridgewells.co.uk
APRIL 2015
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BEAUTY FILE
TAKE A PEEK IN OUR COSMETICS BAG AS WE REVEAL OUR BEAUTY FAVOURITES Tried & Tested... Our pick of the best beauty products around this month
ST TROPEZ
SELF TAN LUXE FACIAL OIL,£23 Can’t wait for summer to come? If you’re fed up with pasty skin, follow the catwalk models’ example and invest in this genius new oil. Apply a few drops before you go to bed and you’ll awaken with a healthy glow that lasts for days – plus it hydrates your skin too. Available from www.sttropeztan.co.uk
PERCY & REED
TOTALLY INTENSIVE TREATMENT OIL+ 50ML, £24 Billed as ‘hair’s best friend’, this new oil claims to transform even the driest hair into shiny, silky tresses. Containing the moisturising qualities of camellia oil, the strength of macadamia seed oil and rejuvenating, nutrient-rich carrot seed oil. Available from www.uk.spacenk.com
ATKINSONS
24 OLD BOND STREET TRIPLE EXTRACT COLOGNE 50ML, £85 As the most full-bodied concentrate of the iconic English cologne, Triple Extract is a gorgeous mix of warm rose and woody notes. Just a quick spritz will keep you fresh and fragrant all day, so this delightful scent – which comes in an attractive smoked bottle – is well worth the investment. Available from www.selfridges.com
PHILOSOPHY
NO REASON TO HIDE MULTI-IMPERFECTION TRANSFORMING SERUM, £48 Start repairing your complexion for spring with this exciting new serum, which evens out imperfections such as dark spots and large pores. For a really fresh look, combine with Philosophy’s new No Reason to Hide Moisturiser, £28. Available from www.philosophyskincare.co.uk
O’RIGHT
RECOFFEE CONDITIONER 400ML, £21 This fun product not only features caffeine from recycled coffee beans to stimulate hair growth, each bottle also contains coffee seeds – so you can plant your bottle and grow your own coffee tree. It’s the product that just keeps giving! Available from www.o-right.co.uk
GIVENCHY
COLORECREATION COLLECTION LE PRISME VISAGE COLOR CONFETTI 10G, £38 It’s a bit early for wedding season but you can still enjoy a burst of romance with this multi-coloured face powder. The product adds instant radiance using mother of pearl and natural mica, giving a luminous quality to any complexion. And the packaging’s fun too. Available from www.feelunique.com
KIEHL’S
PRECISION LIFTING & PORETIGHTENING CONCENTRATE 50ML, £49 Formulated with micro-filtered yeast extract, this concentrate visibly tightens the skin and reduces the appearance of pores. It claims to firm up the skin and improve the facial contours, giving you a younger, brighter look. Available from www.kiehls.co.uk
MISS DIOR
HAIR MIST £34 For those who can’t get enough of Miss Dior’s blend of rose, patchouli and neroli, here’s a way to add the delicate fragrance to your hair too. In fact, you could even save the perfume for best and just use this for work and casual occasions, as the delicious scent really lingers. Available from Dior counters
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THE LOOK
SO
EXPERT OPINION
PROFESSIONAL ADVICE ON YOUR HEALTH, BEAUTY AND WELLBEING problems are simply joints aching due to being in a poor postural position, or getting stiff. Other times it’s due to degenerative changes in the joint that can cause a whole host of issues, like excess bony growth, cartilage damage and tendon tears. For these people, a lot can be done to protect their joints, such as maintaining a nutritious, healthy diet, regular exercise that’s not too high impact, avoiding sitting all day, and maintaining good posture. DON’T IGNORE THE NIGGLES Seek advice straight away. Go to see your GP, or your local physiotherapist or osteopath and get your symptoms checked. In many cases, just a simple workplace adjustment or a few exercises can cure the problem. But sometimes, treatment is needed to correct dysfunction [injury] in the body. It’s also important to rehabilitate following injury. Many people suffer pain or an injury, but forget or are not aware of the importance of rehabilitation. Don’t ignore niggles. Pain is telling you something. Your body is saying ‘something is not right’. Listen to your body and get medical advice. If you ignore it, you might be lucky and the problem goes away, or you might end up with a serious injury or chronic pain. DON’T SKIP THOSE WARM-UPS Warming-up for exercise is incredibly important. It simply involves increasing blood flow to muscles and joints, and generating heat into
ROCKING THE JOINT
these areas. It allows joints to move more freely and muscles to stretch more easily – this makes
Stiff, achy joints are often associated with old age, but joint problems aren’t the exclusive domain of pensioners. Physiotherapis Tim Allardyce of Surrey Physio explains why it’s important not to assume you’re too young to have joint conditions
injury far less likely. CURE OR COPE? Not all joint problems can be cured, like arthritis. Once damage has been done to a joint, this damage may be irreversible. However, there is still a lot that can be done to help the area, for
WE ARE SEEING increasing numbers of younger adults presenting with joint troubles.
cushion that sits between the vertebrae
example, by reducing load on the joint. This can
and a common cause of back pain.
be done by improving biomechanics of the joint
We’re also seeing a lot more people
and the other joints around it. Stretching muscles
What is more worrying, is that it
coming with shoulder problems,
next to the joint and improving posture can also
appears younger people are
mostly due to poor posture, and the
significantly improve typically incurable
coming to seek physiotherapy
increasing use of computers, laptops,
conditions. I have treated around a dozen
treatment for arthritic joints. Two of the most common conditions are degenerative disc disease [DDD], typically a
smart phones and tablets is playing a significant role in this. When it comes to joint injuries, sports and
women with arthritic hips who were told they needed surgery and with the right management and exercises, and a course of physiotherapy,
condition you might see in your 60s, but now
degeneration are typical causes. But then there
they can self-manage their hip condition for years
particularly common in your mid-20s. DDD is a
are people who simply present insidiously – their
before needing a hip replacement.
degeneration of the discs in the spine – the
pain just comes out of nowhere. Some of these
www.surreyphysio.co.uk
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ADVERTORIAL
“YOGALATES IS BENEFICIAL TO ALL AGES AND ABILITIES, RELIEVING THOSE WITH MIND OR BODY RELATED ISSUES”
HARMONIOUS HEALING IN SUSSEX Harmonise Me Holistic Therapies in Frant introduces Yogalates to the South East YOGALATESTM METHOD is an award
those with mind or body related issues, such
winning exercise system created by Australian
as lower back pain, lack of core strength,
born Louise Solomon. It effectively merges the
anxiety, stress, insomnia and depression. All
ancient practice of Yoga from the East, with
classes are held in a non-judgmental,
core stabilising, posture enhancing dynamics of
supportive environment, and I advise all
Pilates from the West. The fusion offers a
participants to stick to their own pace and
complete mind and body workout that builds
listen to their bodies.”
strength, stamina, tone and flexibility. Classes centre on a relaxed theme, aiming to connect mind, body and spirit in a soothing,
including Yogalates, Crystal Healing, Theta Healing,
restorative manner, whilst mobilising,
Reiki Seichem Healing, Intuitive Counselling,
strengthening and stabilising the body at a
Mindfulness, EFT and Relaxation techniques.
pace suited to the individual. Katie Bullen,
Yogalates classes are currently held in Frant
founder of Harmonise Me, is the only qualified
on Monday and Friday mornings. Private and
teacher in this area.
additional classes or workshops are available
“Emphasis is placed on connecting to self
on request. Contact Katie by emailing
through tools of mindfulness, while releasing
harmonisemeinfo@gmail.com, or calling
physical or emotional stress and systematically
07747 120 718 for further information.
working through muscles and joints to achieve
54
Harmonise Me aims to heal and restore balance within individuals using a variety of therapies,
You can Follow Harmonise Me on Facebook,
a whole body workout,” she says. “Yogalates
Twitter and Instagram to keep updated on
is beneficial to all ages and abilities, relieving
classes, workshops and related blogs.
APRIL 2015
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A Matter of Urgency Do you suffer with bladder and bowel problems? Spire Tunbridge Wells Hospital is pleased to have a dedicated Pelvic Floor Assessment Unit combining the skills of specialist consultants and practitioners.
• Bladder and Bowel Urgency/Incontinence- Male and Female • Overactive Bladder Interstitial Cystitis • Pelvic Floor re-education • Painfullntercourse • Ante-natal/Post-natal symptoms Bladder/Bowei/SPD/PGP) • Pelvic Pain
Mr Danny Lawes Consultant Colorectal Surgeon
Mr Alex Slack Consultant Urogyn aecol ogi st
Mrs Victoria Shilling Specialist Women's and Men's Health Physiotherapist
Dr Mark Scott Clinical Scientist from The Functional Gut Clinic
• Management of painful scar tissue (Post-natal) • Chronic Constipation /Bowel Dysfunction • Proia pse • Bladder and Bowel Neurological problems (for example Multiple Sclerosis)
• Urodynamics • MRI and CT • Ultrasound • Therapeutic Ultrasound • State of the art tech no logy for studying Neu rom uscu Ia r function of the gut • Percutaneous Posterior Tibial Nerve Stimulation • Su rgica I and Non-Su rgica I treatment of Proia pse
For more information please contact us on
01892 741150
www.spi retu n bridgewells.com
"Our role to you is to help you understand what is going on with your body, how to control your symptoms and enable a full and active life"
S2 Spire Tunbridge Wells Hospital Pelvic Floor Assessment Unit
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BEAUTY BULLETIN GASTRIC SURGERY
The real aim of gastric surgery is to get patients down to a healthy weight to ensure that they maintain a healthy lifestyle We’ve all heard in the media about the controversy and success stories, but what is gastric surgery? Christopher Sutton, a weight loss consultant at Tonic Weight Loss Centre in Harley Street, London, answers some common questions
HOW DO YOU FIND THE
AND WHAT ABOUT
RIGHT PROCEDURE?
POST-SURGERY DIET?
There are three major types of
Our motto is: “We teach you how to
gastric surgery: a gastric balloon,
eat to live, not live to eat.” A patient’s
gastric banding and sleeve gastrectomy.
diet after surgery depends, again,
At a consultation patients should be
on the procedure. A dietician will
advised which is the best solution for
give you comprehensive, tailored
them personally. Each patient will differ
advice after your procedure to help
according to their lifestyle and needs,
you work towards a healthy weight, but
so a good clinic will be able to you find
most post-op regimes include a fluid
the right procedure to plan toward
based diet for two weeks after surgery,
healthier future.
followed by four weeks of soft foods.
Simply put, gastric surgery aims to reduce
WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT
WHAT ARE THE RISKS AND SIDE
the capacity of the stomach, making you feel
FROM YOUR CLINIC?
EFFECTS OF GASTRIC SURGERY?
full quicker. People should consider weight
Any type of surgery, no matter how
The risks patients run are very low as the
loss surgery as a last resort, when diets and
small, can be daunting for patients.
procedures are performed using a minimally
exercise have failed to provide results.
It is important that your clinic provides
invasive keyhole procedure, so any post-
Occasionally people may wish to consider a
comprehensive aftercare, no matter
operative pain and discomfort is very slight.
reversible weight loss procedure, such a
which surgery is performed. The more
One of the major side effects is, of course,
gastric balloon, to kick-start a rigorous diet
aftercare support a patient gets, the
weight loss! However, gastric surgery is just
and exercise regime, to give themselves an
more the weight they stand to lose.
the first step. It is up to the patient to ensure
extra push in the right direction.
Recovery times for these surgeries are
that they make the right choices to become
short; in the case of a gastric balloon,
happier and healthier in the long term.
patients down to a healthy weight to
a patient will typically be in and out of
www.tonicweightlosssurgery.co.uk
ensure that they maintain a healthy
the clinic in a day. For more invasive
lifestyle, giving them the confidence and
surgeries, such as a gastric sleeve, a
To find out more about cosmetic
quality of life that they may not have had at
patient may need to remain at the clinic
surgery clinics in your area, visit
their previous weight.
for up to three nights.
www.cliniccompare.co.uk
The real aim of gastric surgery is to get
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New Collection
47 HIGH STREET, ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS
WWW.BRORA.CO.UK
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SO
the SOCIAL scene These are the pages in the magazine where we focus on events and happenings across the Tunbridge Wells. If you would like your special occasion to be featured just let us know at info@onemediauk.co.uk FASHION ROCKS An afternoon of style, socialising and shopping was held at High Rocks in Tunbridge Wells when the popular Rock the Runway event, organised by Katy Beatton and Lynne Meek returned for 2015. After a two-course lunch, 24 local women including Olympic ice skater Jayne Torvill took to the catwalk to showcase collections from a selection of local stores. Over £2,500 was raised for the Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre. “Rock the Runway certainly led the way in showing how local community can work together in raising awareness and funding for the Pickering Cancer Drop-in Centre,” says Polly Taylor from Pickering. “It was emotional, humbling and filled with love but also with the wonderful recipe of fun and excitement.” Polly Taylor
Photos: Charlie Bond & David Bartholemew Jane Torvill
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EVENT
SOCIAL RHINO REVELS An evening of dinner and dancing was held at St Julians club in Sevenoaks when London marathon runner Sarah Sumner (below) organised an event in aid of her chosen charity Save the Rhino. As well as enjoying fizz, canapĂŠs and a three-course dinner, after their meal guests who were feeling flush played blackjack and roulette in a casino style room, before dancing the night away to a DJ set provided by Marcel Mendez. Over 80 people attended the event, with ÂŁ2,000 raised for charity. www.virginmoneygicing\SarahSumner
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April Surprises The Ripples April Showers Sale
bathrooms
by
Ripples 12 Union Square Eridge Road The Pantiles Tunbridge Wells TN4 SHE Tel 01892 617 462 Brighton Tel 01273 841228
Reigate Tel 01737 226450
Award winning showrooms nationwide www.ripples.ltd. uk
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SOCIAL STORY CELEBRATION A night of prizegiving and performances was held at the Sackville School in Hildenborough, when mental health charity Sevenoaks Area Mind held an awards evening to commemorate the winners of their 50-word saga competition. Participants had written short stories based on a painting of umbrellas and their interpretation of the image. As well as accolades being presented to the winners of each category, children from local theatre and performance groups acted out the successful entries on stage. www.sevenoaksareamind.org.uk
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If you are looking into cosmetic surgery, you may want to take the first step. Come in and tell us your plans at Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital. We'll listen and help you decide on the best way to get the results you want. So when you're ready for the new you, talk to us.
Th e Nuffield Health Promise • We wil l match any comparable price.* ·Our all-inclusive prices are guaranteed. • There are no time limits on your aftercare~*
• Facial surgery • Breast reduction and enlargement • Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) • Bariatric surgery (weight-loss surgery) • Liposuction
; ; Nuffield Health FOR THE LOVE OF LIFE
• Non-invasive procedures
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e
For further information call 01892 883638 () Or email tun.enq@nuffieldhealth.com nuffieldhealth.comjtunbridgewellshospital
Terms and cond it ions app ly. *Not includ ing private patient un its at NHS hosp ita ls. Loca l area defi ned as wit hi n 1 5 mil es of t he Nuffi eld Hea lth hasp ita I. We will match aga inst wr itten quotes on ly. **Where poss ible, we prom ise to assist you to rece ive any fo ll ow up adv ice, treatment or care that is cl inica lly requ ired from your Consu ltant for as long as you may requ ire it. If a prosthesis is used as part of your treatment t his is guaranteed for the manufacturer's official lifetime of that prosthes is. "Cli nica lly requ i red~ ind icates where further intervention and/ or mon itoring of a patient's cond it ion is deemed necessary as a direct resu lt of surgica l intervention.
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NEWS
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MOVING WITH THE TIMES…
Last month saw the launch of the Times of Tunbridge Wells newspaper in a move that bucks the trend as many towns witness the closing of their local paper. We find out what the reaction to the Times has been Funding to those selected will begin from autumn 2015. Successful applicants will be followed during the course of the next 12 months through the pages of the newspaper or So
Tunbridge Wells magazine. They will be required to take part in PR or promotional activity to help profile the fund and they must also agree to mentor other successful applicants should the scheme be carried forward into another year. Applications for funding will be considered by a panel of principal investors or their representatives.
T
The process will involve equity investment, he first edition of the weekly paper
“The response has been phenomenal,”
although the investors reserve the right to use
attracted attention not just in Tunbridge
says Richard Moore, Editorial Director of One
other financial structures. Funds will be released
Wells but throughout the region, with
Media, which publishes the newspaper and
as the business demands and in line with an
more than 1.5million people following events
this magazine. “It appears there’s a real
agreed structure. There is no limit on the amount
on broadcast media.
appetite among readers and advertisers for a
of funding to any individual business.
quality tabloid.”
newspaper has created a £5million fund to
And in the Financial Times:
help boost businesses across the county.
“Interesting to see that during a time when
It is designed to help limited companies,
many predict the death of print media, a
from start-ups looking for seed capital to
new local newspaper emerges in Kent.”
businesses needing cash to expand.
Social media was also awash with positive feedback and comment on the newspaper,
Think Dragons’ Den. The only stipulation for applicants is that
which is available free of charge every
they must be 18+, be operating through a
Wednesday within a 10 mile radius of the
limited company that is based within the
town centre. The first of the 30,000 printed
boundaries of Kent and have a viable, solid
copies are handed out at railway stations
business plan.
from 6am, with others available at 166
Business plans must be received by July 1
newsagents, shops, supermarkets and
2015, after which a shortlist will be chosen to
other outlets.
present their ideas to a panel of experts.
IN
Working with high net worth individuals the
title carrying that name.”
V E STME
Wells Investment Fund.
Kent readers away from a more established
• IN
perhaps the aspirational paper hopes to lure
OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS
D
the paper was about the Times of Tunbridge
UN
The front page story on the launch issue of
S
T FUND •
“With its sleek design and prominent display of the word Times on its masthead,
ND • I NVE
ENT F
INVESTMENT FUND
FU
STM
the Independent:
T
EN
THE £5MILLION DRAGONS’ DEN
TM
along with comments from national titles like
N
ITV Meridian, BBC Radio Kent and Heart FM,
VE
There was coverage on BBC1 South East,
Those interested in applying for funds should send their full business plan together with a covering letter about themselves and their company to:
Times of Tunbridge Wells Investment Fund 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU Applicants must be 18+ and operating a limited company within the boundaries of the county of Kent. Closing date is July 1 2015. All business plans will be received and viewed in strictest confidence.
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, TILE
AYES
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EVENT
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photo shoot A monthly roundup of socials and other events across our part of the world
SPRING STYLE An afternoon of socialising and style was held in the Tunbridge Wells High Street when store Caroline Charles threw a fashion event to showcase their SS15 styles. Local ladies and loyal customers were invited to enjoy canapés and a glass of fizz while watching models display the
HISTORICAL UNVEILING
designer’s chic spring range.
A group of special guests made history at Hever Castle
After the catwalk, those
when they were invited to the unveiling of two Tudor
attending were given the
treasures. International art dealer and TV presenter Philip
chance to browse the store
Mould disclosed a rare Tudor portrait of Henry VIII as a young
and buy their favourite looks
man, before TV historian Dr Jonathan Foyle officially opened
while the Caroline Charles
the castle’s new exhibition A Bed of Roses, which features a
assistants were on hand to
bed on display is believed to be the marriage bed of Henry VII
offer style advice.
and Elizabeth of York. Following the opening, guests enjoyed a three-course lunch in the castle’s Astor wing. Among those in attendance were historian and TV presenter Kate Williams and the Guthrie family who own the castle.
PUMP POWER Dozens of Tenterden residents gathered at the Kent and East Sussex Railway to support a local group of fundraisers when they took on a Comic Relief challenge. A team of 10 staff and volunteers at the station wowed the crowds when they used a pump trolley to pump their way between Tenterden and Bodiam stations five times – covering over ANTHONY RIGG
100 miles in total. During their 10-hour challenge more than £1,800 was raised for charity and the group’s efforts were even mentioned by Chris Evans on the BBC Radio 2 breakfast show.
SHOWING OFF Two evenings of sell-out success happened in Tonbridge when a fashion and variety show was held at the River Centre. The Great British Show Off event, which featured everything from catwalk collections to choir singers, saw CHRIS DAVEY
over £14,000 raised for nominated charities Hospice in the Weald and Action for Children. “We wanted to do something that was fun and worthwhile for Tonbridge, as well as raising money for charity,” say the show organisers. “We are over the moon with the results.”
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LIFE & STYLE
We look at some of the best ways to enhance your home and lifestyle this month
DRUSILLAS PARK Crack open the fun at Drusillas Park this Easter and enjoy all the attractions, animals and events on offer at the award winning zoo in East Sussex – who celebrate their 90th birthday this year! Hello Kitty will return to her home at Drusillas on Tuesday March 31 and Monday April 6, plus The Fat Controller will be causing a locomotion when he alights at the Park on Friday April 3. Animal lovers can also see some new faces along the zoo route following the introduction of spectacled owls and scarlet ibis, as well as lots of baby bundles. With all this, oodles of adventure play, a Thomas & Friends™ train ride and Hello Kitty Secret Garden, it’s going to be another exciting year at Drusillas Park. Located just off the A27, Drusillas Park is open daily from 10am. Call us or visit our website for more information. 01323 874 100
www.drusillas.co.uk
OAK DESIGNS An increasing number of people are opting to self-assemble their own buildings and this is particularly the case with oak frame outbuildings, as they give the opportunity for the self-builder to take on an initial smaller project, such as a garage/workshop or home office. CHRIS POPE (AN AUDIENCE WITH THE POPE)
At Oak Designs each oak frame comes complete with a bag containing a full set of clear and easy to follow assembly instructions and includes nails, oak pegs, stainless steel pins, drawing pack and DPC for laying under the soleplate. Plus, there is always back-up at the end of a phone from a technical expert from the Oak Designs Co. to talk through any stage of your self-build. 01273 400 411
www.oakdesigns.org
TOM HAACKE Tom Haacke is a modern acoustic singer songwriter who is looking to bring a refreshing edge to the genre. His exciting live show incorporates strong vocals, guitar, loop pedal and even some beat boxing, blended to create a show not to be missed! Tom is recording a currently untitled two-track with plans for an EP this winter. You will see Tom playing next at The Bedford in Tunbridge Wells on Thursday April 23. Find out more about Tom, his music and upcoming performances at www.tomhaacke.com Email tomhaackemusic@gmail.com for booking enquiries.
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C O M M E R C I A L F E AT U R E
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GREEN TONES If you are looking for stylish homeware this spring, you might want to check out the eye-catching range recently launched by local company Green Tones. In addition to looking great, all of the tableware, planters and petware we supply are crafted from ‘Bamboo Fibre’, an eco-friendly alternative to plastics, glassware and ceramics. This recycled material, which is durable, non-toxic and dishwasher safe, is best suited to sleek, contemporary designs and sharp colours. It is also biodegradable. Once it has provided years of attractive use, Green Tones homeware will break down and biodegrade in landfill over just three to five years. Our tableware includes complete sets, ideal for picnics, barbecues and everyday use. Plates, cups, bowls and speakers are also available separately. The planters we offer are best suited to seedlings, herbs, small plants and fruits and are available from just 45p each. Visit our website for more information. www.greentones.co.uk
SEVENOAKS TRIATHLON Knight Frank, in Sevenoaks, is delighted to be one of the main sponsors of the Sevenoaks Triathlon to be held on the morning of Sunday April 19. George Berry, Office Head, will present the Knight Frank Trophies to the fastest local male and fastest local female who crosses the finishing line after a 400m swim, 25km cycle and 8.4km run – quite a challenge due to the hilly terrain in this area. Three brave members of the office (Edward Rook, George Berry and and Tilly Wilson, pictured) have entered a relay team and are accompanied by three Head Office colleagues. A prize draw for a sports package to the value of £1,000, for all local competitors who instruct Knight Frank with the sale of their house before 4pm on Saturday April 18, will be drawn on the day. www.knightfrank.com
BUCKMORE PARK If it was good enough for double F1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton, then it sure ought to be good enough for anyone. Buckmore Park Kart Circuit is located just off the M2 and all the family can feel like champions this Easter. Buckmore have something for everyone, from as young as four to as old as you feel. Over Easter we have lined up Family ‘Turn Up ‘n’ Drive’ days on Monday April 6 and Thursday April 16 (ages four to 84!) For those who are under a time constraint, we’re now offering a pre-bookable day on Friday April 10. There are open Laser Warfare sessions on Wednesday April 8 and Monday April 13, as well as Kart School, race meetings for youngsters, birthday party availability and races for adults of all abilities too. Find out more at www.buckmore.co.uk (adults) or www.buckmore4kids.co.uk (youngsters).
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LULLINGSTONE PARK GO LF CO U RSE
TRIAL OFFER Try Lullingstone Park Golf course for one month for just ÂŁ49. This fantastic introductory offer will enable you to try the courses at Lullingstone for a whole month for less than the price of two weekend rounds on the 18-hole course. T&Cs apply.
TIME SAVING GOLF The 9-hole course at Lullingstone provides a great round of golf for those who don't have time to spend a full day out on the course but enjoy the thrills of the game & the beautiful scenery on offer.
s
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BROKE HILL
BROKE HILL PARTY PACKAGES
*
BROKE HILL
To discuss and receive a quote for your event, contact 01959 533225 (option 2) or e-mail sales@brokehill.co.uk
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Intermediate &Junior Membership Unlimited Golf - Annual Subscription
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Intermediate 1 (19-25)
£450.00
Intermediate 2 (26-29)
£650.00
Intermediate 3 (30-34)
£900.00
Junior 1 (6-14)
£150.00
20/03/2015 17:04
SG>I
201
Cooper Tunbridge Wells
SO MAGAZINE BUSINESS GOLF CHARITY CHALLENGE IN ASSOCIATION WITH COOPER TUNBRIDGE WELLS BMW PROVIDING THE ULTIMATE DRIVE
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You can also call Paul Harvey: 01892 779 650 or 07720 970 056
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Member's benefits include:
Contact
• Access to 18 Hole and 9 Hole Courses*
Steven on 01732 701004 or email membership@hever.co. uk to reserve your place for 2015 and arrange a club preview round at your convenience.
• 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 membership • Intermediates for 18- 35 Year olds • Annual Pass to Hever Castle & Tickets for your guests
HEVER_C.AStLE GOLF CLVB
* Dependent on Membership category
Hever Castle Golf Club, Hever Road, Hever, Edenbridge, Kent, TN8 7NP
~
WWWHEVER.CO.UK
Quote SOTW to receive a discounted preview round
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Dorent 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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ALL IMAGES SAM YARDLEY
FOCUS ON SEVENOAKS
Focus on Sevenoaks Take a stroll through the heart of Kent’s happiest town
F
Ever since being granted market town status in
or residents of Sevenoaks, there’s no
Sevenoaks came in at number 14 out of the top
doubt that this beautiful town is one of
50 UK happiness hotspots, making it the highest
the 13th century, Sevenoaks has been a thriving
the area’s best places to live, work, play,
rated Kent district – and beating nearest local rival
hub of local life with much to attract both visitors
shop and do business. Aside from its
Tunbridge Wells by an impressive 17 places.
and prospective residents. The market ethos
delightful buildings, fascinating history
Based on a broad range of factors – these
continues to this day, with a general shopping
and vibrant community, Sevenoaks has much
include life expectancy, health, employment,
experience available on Wednesdays and a
more to offer - whether you’re looking to raise a
crime rates, weather and even internet access
farmers’ market taking place in Bligh’s Meadow
family or buy a home, or simply enjoy a fantastic
– the Quality of Life Survey identifies the most
every Saturday. Those looking for Easter gifts,
day out or dining experience, you’ll find
prosperous and peaceful places to hang your
unusual ideas for the home or great local produce
everything you need in the historic town.
hat. Those who enjoy the pace of life in
will find plenty to interest them among the
Sevenoaks and its enviable amenities are sure to
bustling stores, where you can shop for
consistently ranks highly in ‘best place to live’
agree with the findings, which suggest the town
everything from antiques and jewellery to
studies. In the Halifax Quality of Life Survey 2014,
is Kent’s finest address.
sporting goods and craft supplies.
It’s no surprise that, year after year, Sevenoaks
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FOCUS ON SEVENOAKS
A fantastic night out is never far away in
products and crafts. Live music, street food and a
Sevenoaks, where the local arts and culture
beer festival will all add to the atmosphere,
scene is going from strength to strength. The
making this one of the year’s best food-focused
Stag Community Arts Centre, Theatre and
events. Find out more at
Cinema provides high quality live entertainment,
www.marketsquaregroup.co.uk
alongside the latest blockbuster films. Household
Days out in Sevenoaks are always fun,
names star in the Outside the Box Comedy Club
particularly if you’d like to soak up the
on a monthly basis, while rising and established
remarkable sense of history and heritage that
bands from diverse genres appear on the same
pervades the area. Overlooking the town and
stage as world class ballet and classical
its stunning rural environs is, of course, Knole
productions. Every winter, locals enjoy a
– the captivating 15th century stately home that
spectacular family pantomime at their much-
has been the Sackville residence for 400 years.
loved theatre, without having to travel to a larger
Now the only remaining deer park in Kent, the
town or city to enjoy the festive fun.
1,000-acre estate is cared for by the National
expansive mansions to cosy cottages, there’s
Meanwhile, the Sevenoaks Players provide an
Trust and is one of the county’s most popular
something for most buyers here and the town’s
entertaining platform for talented local amateurs.
tourist attractions. Visitors are intrigued by the
demographic represents aspirational, hard-
Every year the Sevenoaks Summer Festival
remarkable history of the house, which was
working people who love their town and their
keeps the town buzzing with live music, drama
once owned by King Henry VIII, while for many
culture.
and entertainment – keep your eye on
locals, strolling through the atmospheric and
Raising a family in Sevenoaks is probably one
www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk for details.
extensive parkland is one of the great joys of
of the best decisions a parent could make, given
Sevenoaks life.
the wealth of nationally respected schools, both
For a tasty lunch or pre-theatre evening meal, there are plenty of mouth-watering options on
In nearby Riverhill, you’ll find another, more
public and state, based in the immediate area.
offer. Here you can enjoy a virtual trip around the
modest country home with a fascinating
Dating from the early 15th century, Sevenoaks
world, with a huge array of global cuisines on the
horticultural collection, at Riverhill Himalayan
School is the second oldest non-denominational
menu – whether you fancy Italian, Japanese,
Gardens. Of course, few tourists leave the area
school in the country and counts some high
Thai, Mexican, Indian, French, Chinese,
without visiting Sir Winston Churchill’s beloved
profile figures among its alumni – these include
Malaysian, European, traditional British pub grub
former home, Chartwell, near Westerham and
the Princess Royal’s husband, Sir Timothy
or an elegant afternoon tea, you’ll find something
Sevenoaks make a great base from which to
Laurence, actor Daniel Day-Lewis, film director
to satisfy just about every appetite.
explore the gorgeous Wealden countryside and
Paul Greengrass, comedian Charlie Higson and
delightful surrounding villages.
members of the Belgian Royal family. Other
For even more gastronomic delights, don’t
If you’re smitten with Sevenoaks, moving
highly rated schools in the town include Knole
which will run on The Vine from Friday May 8 to
here permanently is a highly attractive option.
Academy, Walthamstow Hall and Sevenoaks
Sunday May 10. Here, you’ll discover the best of
With mainline rail services and easy access to
Preparatory School.
local, national and international produce, along
the M25, this is a popular commuter town and
with the chance to buy garden and kitchen
house prices are correspondingly healthy. From
miss the Sevenoaks Food and Drink Festival,
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Whatever you want from life, you’re sure to find it in Sevenoaks.
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Diagnostic and Treatment Centre
Sevenoaks Medical Centre Beadle House
DELAYING NEVER CURED A WEAK HEART Don't delay getting your heart checked out-
make an appointment today and start your journey back to good health. Call Sevenoaks Medical Centre's world-leading Cardiac Services Team on 0844 800 0676 or visit www.sevenoaksmedicalcentre.com . Sevenoaks Medical Centre, Beadle House, London Road, Sevenoaks TN13 2JD
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ADVERTORIAL
EDUCATION PROFILE
“EVERY CHILD HAS A CHANCE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN SCHOOL AND TO CONTRIBUTE TO SCHOOL LIFE”
THE VERY BEST START IN LIFE
At Sevenoaks Preparatory School, tremendous academic success flourishes in a supportive, nurturing environment. Headmaster and former pupil, Mr Luke Harrison, tells us why students can enjoy the best of both worlds at this co-educational school.
school life. Drama, music, art and sport all play a very important part in a pupil’s development. Everyone has the opportunity to represent the school at sport, in music concerts and in school productions. Life in Years 7 and 8 is one of the great strengths of Sevenoaks Prep. Our older pupils play a crucial role in school life, as they are our leaders and role models, and are given responsibilities accordingly.
WHEN DID SEVENOAKS PREP OPEN?
new audiences. We work together to make
The school was founded in 1919 on a site in
sure they receive the very best start in life.
central Sevenoaks and moved to its current
We are also proud of our excellent academic
DO YOU HAVE A SCHOOL MOTTO? We have our ‘Way of Life’, which is a set of
location, in 20 acres bordering Knole Park, in
achievements. Our most recent leavers were
moral guidelines that are at the heart of
1968. We are looking forward to our
awarded scholarships for academic success,
everything we stand for.
centenary celebrations in four years’ time.
sports, arts, drama and music. We celebrate individuality and enable each pupil to find their
ARE THERE INTERESTING
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY YOU ARE
strengths and maximise their potential by
CHANGES TAKING PLACE
MOST RENOWNED FOR TODAY?
offering a diverse and exciting curriculum
IN THE EDUCATION SYSTEM?
The very special, family-friendly atmosphere
within a secure community. Pupils and
Not a day goes past without something
at Sevenoaks Prep is what sets us apart from
teachers here trust each other. Fundamentally,
new happening. As education is so dynamic,
other schools. Pastoral care is at the core of
our caring and dedicated staff enjoy spending
it is essential that a school and its
what we do. We are here to make sure pupils
time with the children.
community remember the past,
learn, but also that they are confident to talk to us, to their parents, to their peers and to
78
Every child has a chance to make a difference in school and to contribute to
equips itself for the present and embraces the future.
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ADVERTORIAL
HOW ABOUT THE DEVELOPMENTS
where they explore the pond, check what is
Sevenoaks Preparatory School
TAKING PLACE AT YOUR SCHOOL?
happening in the mini bugs’ hotel and see who
Godden Green, Sevenoaks,
Later this term, we are completing the
is visiting the butterfly sanctuary. Pupils in
Kent TN15 0JU
development of four new modern classrooms
Years 1 and 2 use the trail as part of their
01732 762 336
for our Kindergarten and Reception pupils,
outdoor education lessons, which are
www.theprep.org.uk
which have been designed to take advantage
timetabled weekly. Older pupils have been
admin@theprep.org.uk
of our grounds, and so have bi-fold doors
helping to build it and learning from it as part
linking the inside space with the outside space.
of the school’s gardening and outdoor
Also, as part of our emphasis on outdoor
SO
education clubs.
education, we have also been building a nature trail for all our pupils to enjoy. It is used
TELL US A SURPRISING STORY
to teach the importance of respecting and
ABOUT THE PLACE
supporting the environment and the benefits
In the woodland around our fields, there is a
of sustainability. Pupils in Nursery,
BMX track that I helped to build when I was a
Kindergarten and Reception use this trail
pupil at the school. I would love to reinstate
regularly in class time. They have nature walks
the track, as it is a bit overgrown now!
“THE BEST THING ABOUT THE PREP IS HOW MUCH THE TEACHERS CARE ABOUT YOU AND WHAT YOU THINK.” Year 8 pupil
An independent day school for boys and girls aged 2-13 To arrange a visit, please contact Clare Harrison: admissions@theprep.org.uk 01732 762336 www.theprep.org.uk
CHALLENGE • CREATIVITY • COMMUNITY
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SO
St Julians [lub LAN fXCLUSIVE PRIVATE lMEMBERS' (LUB Enjoy spring at St Julians Club; our charming surroundings are the perfect place for families to relax together and enjoy a family meal. As the days warm up our spacious grounds are great for the kids to play and explore, and our heated outdoor pools open on 1 April for the summer season. St Julians has beautiful listed function rooms with fantastic views for catered parties of up to 150 guests. Our versatile rooms are perfect for Christmas meals in the restaurant and larger Christmas parties. Visit our website for further information, and to find out how to join.
LA'FRIENDLY CLUB WHERE {AN 1\§LAX, 'DINE ~AMILIES
& HAVE 'FUN TOGETHER 01732 458261 o INFO@STJULIANS.CO.UK o WWW.STJULIANS.CO.UK
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APRIL 2015
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WORLD-CLASS HAIRDRESSING in Seven oaks
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F E AT U R E
RODRIGO MENEZES
SO
Alan Turing was an instrumental part of the Enigma team at Bletchley Park
– eventually managed to crack the code, giving the Allies access to the Germans’ most sensitive information. When Enigma was finally deciphered, this achievement had in turn to be kept secret, to prevent the Germans from discovering that their code was now useless. Experts believe the
CRACKING THE CODE
breaking of the Enigma code shortened the war by at least two years and saved millions
When British actor Benedict Cumberbatch was Oscar nominated for his portrayal of mathematician Alan Turing in The Imitation Game, it led to a resurgence of interest in the Second World War’s most important breakthrough – the operation to crack the German Enigma code. But the Allies’ codebreaking successes were not exclusively down to the team at famous Bletchley Park. We discover how a radio intercept station at Knockholt, near Sevenoaks, played an indispensable role in winning the war
of lives, but the facts surrounding Enigma remained top secret until the 1970s and some former members of staff still consider themselves sworn to secrecy. “I believe that at the end of the century, the use of words and general educated opinion will have altered so much that one will be able to speak of machines thinking without expecting to be contradicted” – Alan Turing The recent release of the critically acclaimed film The Imitation Game on DVD will no doubt continue to inspire interest in this amazing
WHEN BRITAIN DECLARED war on
broken Enigma in 1932, that was at a time
story. This month, a notebook containing
Germany, no time was wasted in preparing
when the Germans were only changing the
Turing’s calculations dating back to 1942 goes
the country for its second major conflict of the
machine’s settings every few months. Now,
up for auction in New York and is expected to
century. With the Great War just two decades
the code was reset at least every 24 hours,
fetch at least £1million. But the ultimately
over, it was imperative that every resource at
making the task of breaking the cypher
tragic genius was not the only person who
the Allies’ disposal should be put to use
practically impossible.
contributed to the UK’s codebreaking
straightaway – these resources included the
“Machines take me by surprise with great
success. Even after Enigma was cracked, the
country’s brightest and best minds.
frequency” – Alan Turing
operation to spy on the Germans had to
Breaking the wireless codes with which the
As we now know, some of Britain’s greatest
continue and it took a cast of hundreds,
enemy communicated their movements and
codebreakers came to the rescue. At the
thousands even, many of whom were based
plans was essential, but the Germans were
Government Code and Cipher School
right here in the Weald.
using the highly efficient Enigma coding
(GC&CS)’s base at Bletchley Park in
machine. Although the Polish had already
Buckinghamshire, the team – including Turing
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Although Bletchley Park was deliberately chosen as the GC&CS base because it was in a
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Ivy Farm House operated as a crucial radio intercept station, feeding German messages to Bletchley Park.
rural area outside London, there was still
Ivy Farm – it was also home to the
concern that the Germans might identify the
Foreign Office Research and
site and attempt to destroy it. So a number of ‘Y
Development Establishment (FORDE)
Stations’ were set up across the country, where
– and many workers never really
staff intercepted non-Morse communications
understood the importance of what they
and fed them to Bletchley Park (or ‘Station X’) as
were doing at the time, or knew that
part of the Ultra military intelligence programme.
their information was going to
One of the most important of these wireless
Bletchley Park.
intercept stations was at Ivy Farm in Knockholt
Staff worked 24 hours
Pound, about five miles north west of
a day in seven to nine-hour-long shifts,
Sevenoaks. Here, staff worked ceaselessly for
with one day off per week.
two and a half years to intercept German
By the end of the war Knockholt staff
messages, mainly those sent via the Lorenz
had collected nearly 168,000
rotor stream cipher machines.
messages and passed over 27,000 on
Beginning with just six personnel in June
to Bletchley Park – where in excess of
1942, Ivy Farm’s staff grew to over 800 by
13,000 were successfully deciphered.
May 1945 and accommodation had become
The general consensus among
rather problematic. The workers – many of
historians is that the Ultra intelligence
whom were women – were billeted with
programme, and in particular the
families in the surrounding area or put up in
breaking of the Enigma code, was the
huts built on the farmland. Eventually special
most important contribution made to
hostels were built in Sevenoaks and Halstead
the Second World War.
to help cope with the numbers; a new
Although the need for the operation
canteen was constructed at the farm in 1944
at Bletchley Park essentially ended with
and workers also frequented the nearby pub,
the war, the Ivy Farm centre continued
The Three Horseshoes. Security was tight at
to operate until 1953.
The Enigma coding machine
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IAN CAPPER
IAN CAPPER
F E AT U R E
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of Tenterden
of Cranbrook
An evening with Simon Reeve Baldwins Travel Group and Kuoni invite you to Salomons Estate Tunbridge Wells to listen to Simon Reeve talk about his latest adventures in the Caribbean. His latest series for the BBC which will be shown this Spring will see him explore the mainland territories as well the islands, to investigate the issues in the region. Join us on Wednesday 29th April at 7pm for a glass of Fruit Punch before sitting down to hear about Simon's travels. A question and answer session will follow.
Tickets are £15* per person and can be booked online at www.ticketsource.eo.uk/btg or contact your local branch of Baldwins Travel Group *Booking fee applies Specialists in tailor-made itineraries and cruising. Packages, Flights, Hotels, Tours, City Breaks, Fly-Drive, Holidays by Rail, Single and Group Travel Travel Insurance. Foreign Exchange BALD~STRAVEL-TONBRIDGE
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T R AV E L
SO
Candlelit night lanterns Hoi An
GOOD MORNING, VIETNAM From tiny tunnels to expansive landscapes, Nel Staveley discovers why Vietnam is one of the hottest destinations on the planet right now
H
onestly,” beams my guide from a
underground maze of deep, airless, water
Ho Chi Minh City, are also an indication of
suspicious - looking tunnel.
pipe-sized holes, sometimes three ‘storeys’
exciting growth.
“It’s not that bad down here.”
and 15ft deep, where Viet Cong soldiers lived,
As I sit on a terrace, looking out to the
I’m not convinced. So he tries another tack.
fought and hid from American and South
beach-lined bay and the pulsing city with
“They’ve made these tunnels twice as big
Vietnamese troops.
clanking cranes building sleek new places to
as they were back in the war. They’re tourist-sized.” While unsure whether I’m
A few hours later, back in Ho Chi Minh City, comes the War Remnants exhibition, where I find myself in
offended or encouraged, I do at
front of the original version of ‘that’
least know that I now have no
photo - Nick Ut ‘s Napalm Girl.
choice but to edge my tourist-
Needless to say, it’s just as poignant
sized hulk down into the dark, cramped, muddy hole – and not complain about how dark, cramped and muddy it is.
in real life as all the times you’ve seen it in newspapers and books. This year marks the 40th anniversary of
stay, it’s hard to imagine that Da Nang is where the American troops had one of their biggest air bases during the war. “It’s changed quite a lot,” my guide shrugs. A lot, but, thankfully, not completely. For all its post-war reconstruction and surging tourism, Vietnam is in no hurry to surrender everything to progress. Hoi An, half an hour’s drive from the bustling
when the 20-year battle ended and the Cu Chi
Da Nang, was once a major 16th century
tunnels and War Remnants Museum are
trading centre and is now a UNESCO World
Cu Chi Tunnels – 70km northwest of Ho Chi
reminders of the pain and suffering endured.
Cultural Heritage site. With its low, tiled
Minh City – might be unbearably humid, feel
But a bigger part of this warm, energetic,
hauntingly claustrophobic and smell like damp
swarming country is also here to tell you a very
mould, but this is the sanitised version; the
different story. Because four decades on from
Disney-esque take on what, more than 40
the civil war that threatened to bring the nation
years ago, in the midst of the bitter Vietnam
to its knees, Vietnam has never stood taller.
Because the guide’s right, this maze of
War (or the American War, as the Vietnamese
Last year, the country received a record
rightly call it) can only have been
number of visitors and it still rates highly on
unimaginable hell.
every ‘destination hotlist’ for 2015. A number
Even those not particularly well-versed in
of fashionable new hotels, such as the A La
Vietnamese history will have heard about the
Carte Hotel in Da Nang, about halfway up the
infamous Cu Chi Tunnels, a 200km
country’s coastline and an hour’s flight from
IN ADDITION TO THE UNSWERVINGLY FRIENDLY PEOPLE, VIETNAM IS BLESSED WITH ACHINGLY BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPES, CENTURIES OF HISTORICAL BUILDINGS AND MADLY VIBRANT CITIES APRIL 2015
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T R AV E L
TRAVEL FACTS Nel Staveley was a guest of Hayes & Jarvis (01293 735 831; www.hayesandjarvis.com) who offers a nine-night, multi-centre holiday to Vietnam (visiting Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and Hue) from £1,749pp, saving up to £432pp. Offer includes some meals, all transfers and return international flights from London Heathrow. Based on an October 6, 2015 departure. An excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels by speedboat costs £66 per person; ‘Life as a Farmer’
Fusion Maia Resort in Hoi An
experience in Tra Que Vegetable Village costs £62 per person.
houses, ancient markets and candlelit
cold flannels, and whenever we stop
night lanterns, it’s a very pretty tourist
off at an array of brick and rice-noodle
Mecca. Yet an array of backpacker bars
making villages, we’re forever met with
and trinket-selling street stalls reveal it’s
herbal tea and offers of keo dua (local
embraced the 21st century.
coconut sweets).
But hop on a small, old fishing boat and
In addition to the unswervingly friendly
half an hour later – via a few excited,
people, Vietnam is blessed with achingly
potentially boat-toppling children and a
beautiful landscapes, centuries of
sweeping river view – you’re in a tiny
historical buildings and madly vibrant
village seemingly untouched by modern
cities. There are long, tree-lined rivers and
times, with smiling people gently pulling
spawning rice fields, lovingly tended
in fishing nets and craftsmen making clay
temples, pagodas and royal palaces, and
pots with nothing but a foot-press and the
the loud, moped-frenzied, brilliant cities of
heat of the sun.
Ho Chi Minh and Hue.
Similarly, not far away, there’s Tra Que
Equally remarkable are the country’s
Vegetable Village, where you can try
often-overlooked beaches. Neighbouring
some centuries-old farming techniques
Thailand has somewhat stolen any
for yourself. To be honest, at first it looks
chance of Vietnam winning the South-
easy – just don a Non La conical hat,
East Asia beach mantle, but it shouldn’t
watch the experts rake furrows in the
be the case. A fine example of the beach
ground and follow suit. Farmers explain
properties found here is Fusion Maia
how to sow seeds, cover them up and
Resort in Hoi An. It’s the epitome of
water them. But it’s a careful, gentle,
luxury, with private pool villas, two free
ancient craft that I quickly realise I have
spa treatments a day and morning yoga
no hope of emulating.
by the beachside infinity pool.
My effort is a total failure – one
breakfast or a lantern-lit barbecue dinner,
lines of extremely thirsty ones – but as
it’s even more perfect. I enjoy sitting
with everything in this country, it’s
quietly on the sand and watching the
greeted with a hearty smile.
bustling fishing boats, while a group of local children play football a few hundred
is legendary. It’s something I notice on
yards away. It’s a scene offering a vibrant
a family-run river cruise in the province
stillness; a feeling of gentle, ambling calm
of Ben Tre. We’re kept refreshed with
alongside a joyous energy. And for me,
a constant supply of fresh fruit and
that’s what Vietnam is all about.
88
Tra Que Vegetable Village
Down on the beach, where you can take
extremely well-soaked pea shoot and four
In fact, throughout Vietnam hospitality
Cu Chi Tunnels
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~
any better way to take off to Spain? If you're looking for something a little different for your next holiday, then take a look at northern Spain with Brittany Ferries from Portsmouth. Within a 2 hour drive- but far less hassle than the airport- you'll drive aboard and enjoy a mini cruise experience with fine dining, stylish bars, tax free shopping, movie lounge, entertainment and 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. You'll also find a choice of places to stayhere's just a taste of what's on offer.
Spanish coast and mountain escapes
Luxurious Spanish Paradores
4 nights from ÂŁ164pp
4 nights from ÂŁ219pp
Whether you fancy breathing in the fresh Picos air, relaxing in a tranquil country village, exploring a vibrant city; or simply soaking up the glorious spring sunshine, we've hand-picked some of our customers' favourite hotels- all perfect for your first visit.
Once castles, monasteries and palaces, Spain's Par adores offer guests unique surroundings coupled with the modern luxuries you'd expect from a high class hotel. Enjoy a choice of coastal, countryside or bustling town locations.
This break includes:
This break includes:
./ Return overnight cruise from Portsmouth with your car
./ Return overnight cruise from Portsmouth with your car
./ 2 nights on board with en suite cabin
./ 2 nights on board with en suite cabin
./ 2 night stay at the Hotel Real with breakfast
./ 2 nights at your choice of hotel with breakfast
Departs Fridays, returning on Tuesdays, 27 March to 30 June Other lengths of stay available- see website for full details.
Departs Fridays, returning on Tuesdays, 27 March to 30 June* Other lengths of stay available- see website for full details.
visit brittanyferries.com/SOmagazine or call 0871 244 0390
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Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras. Prices are per person based on 2 people sharing. New bookings only, subject to availability. Conditionsand exclusions apply.
See website for full details and valid travel dates. 'Excludes departures on 3 April2015.
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OFT
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Baldwins Travel Group Baldwins Travel ~evenoaks
==.:::
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TRAvEL
=---
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~=-=:.:_,.o;.
GRACE TRAVEL
of Tenterden
of Gran brook
Specialists in tailor-made itineraries and cruising. Packages, Flights, Hotels, Tours, City Breaks, Fly-Drive, Holidays by Rail, Single and Group Travel Travel Insurance. Foreign Exchange
SEVENOAKS TRAVEL 01732 458255 info@sevenoakstravel.co.uk
BALDWINS TRAVEL TONBRIDGE 01732 351223 Tonbridge@baldwins-travel.co.uk
TRAVELUX OF TENTERDEN 01580 764344 travelagency@travelux.co.uk:
GRACETRAVELOFCRANBROOK 01580 714411 info@gracetravel.co.uk
BALDWINS TRAVELMAIDSlDNE 01622 762141 Maidstone@baldwins-travel.co.uk
BALDWINS TRAVEL UCKFIELD 01825 760488 Uckfield@baldwins-travel.co.uk
Kent & East Sussex award winning travel agency group
Baldwins Travel Tunbridge Wells 01892 511999
www.baldwinstravel.co.uk I TW@baldwins-travel.co.uk
•:
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APRIL 2015
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ADVERTORIAL
HIGH HILDEN THEN AND NOW
Providing a high standard of 24-hour personal care, High Hilden in Tonbridge has undergone a number of changes over the years. We find out how the home has adapted and why it still stands as a top choice for later life care in the local area WHEN HIGH HILDEN opened as a
However, there was a bright side! Films were
decorated and furnished, and enhanced with residents’ own belongings. Many rooms have attractive views over the gardens. A stimulating programme of events is provided in the home, including music, visiting drama groups, exercises and quizzes. Trips out
residential home in 1946 in the former
regularly shown at the home, there were
are significantly more frequent than an annual
residence of the Streeten family, there were 45
blossom tours, visiting school choirs and an
event, latterly with visits for pub lunches,
elderly residents in dormitories or double
annual outing to the likes of Hastings, or the
theatre trips and cream teas.
rooms. The washing up was done by the
London lights. Famous visitors included Tony
residents themselves and “took as long as
Hancock, who arrived in “a very grand car.”
three hours a day.” They also dusted the dormitories and laid the tables. In 1952, a rule was made that all residents
Much has changed since the early days, not least the relaxation of the decree relating to
Anyone considering residential care for themselves or an elderly relative can find out more by visiting www.highhilden.co.uk or by telephoning the home on 01732 353 070.
alcohol and the absence of a curfew. Now, the
should be in by 8.30pm unless given leave
home is managed by an experienced Home
High Hilden Country House Living
to be late. In 1956, it was decreed that
Manager, with Care Assistants providing 24-hour
for the Elderly – Established 1946
there should be “no intoxicating liquor on
support. The care and comfort of residents is
High Hilden Close, Tonbridge, Kent TN10 3DB
the premises.”
paramount. The single bedrooms are tastefully
Email: highhilden@btconnect.com
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L AT E R L I F E
SO
looking forward to later life
After decades of hard work, retirement is the long-awaited opportunity to relax and enjoy a new phase of your life. When you’ve strived, planned and cared for others all this time, it’s only right that your later years should be fulfilling, active and full of happy memories shared with family and friends FOR SOME PEOPLE, retirement is the
need to be met and overcome. Changes in
you to solve even the most difficult problems
time to put their feet up and enjoy the home
financial circumstances, health difficulties and
– this could be getting in a little daily help with
and family they’ve worked so hard to create.
the loss of loved ones are just some of the
chores so that you can remain in your own
For others, it’s about having the freedom to
issues that may arise – finding solutions to
home, or finding a place where you can live
explore new horizons or pursue long-held
these often emotive and distressing situations
independently but be safe in the knowledge
dreams and ambitions. But whether you’re
may seem a daunting task, but help is at hand
that help is at hand if you need it. Even if an
planning to travel the globe or revel in your
to assist you in making the right choices for
older person requires expert 24-hour care that
own personal world, essentially everyone
you and your family.
the family cannot provide, there is sure to be
shares the same key desires for their later
Making decisions for yourself or on behalf of
someone out there who can help. Whatever your concerns, support and
years – independence, good health and
a relative is much easier if you have plenty of
freedom to enjoy their interests.
information about the options available, which
guidance is available in the local community, to
you’ll find in the pages that follow. Leading
ensure that your later life is the safe, fulfilled
local companies explain how they could help
and happy experience you deserve.
However, life is unpredictable and growing older inevitably brings with it challenges that
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~
SUNRISE. SENIOR LIVING
THE JOY OF EVERY DAY
For over three decades we've made every Sunrise community a home from home. Each home is a vibrant place where independence, choice, dignity and the highest standards of care are valued above all else. We believe in giving you everything you need to live the lifestyle you want. Take our five daily activities for example. Each offers a rich, varied and stimulating experience every single day ~ helping you make new friends and simply carry on doing the things you love.
Call 01732 748 400 or pop in anytime for a closer look at what makes Sunrise so special. Sunrise of Sevenoaks, 64~ 70 Westerham Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN 13 2PZ
sunrise--care.co.uk/sevenoaks
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us: 11 rPJGrl[!]
23/03/2015 11:27
Better than home?
A
SUNRISE速 SENIOR LIVING
THE JOY OF EVERY DAY
When the time comes to find care for yourself or a loved one, what's the best option? Carers coming to visit you in your own house or a move to a dedicated, 24~hour care home? With an ageing population, more and more people are having to make the choice. Sunrise Senior Living in Sevenoaks is the sort of care home that everyone wishes could be the norm. Luxurious suites, landscaped garden, relaxing bistro, a top class restaurant and a choice of at least five activities a day are all part of the offer. There's even an area dedicated exclusively to the care of people with dementia. But, as Director of Community Relations Stephanie Seale points out: "What really matters is the care." Emma is sympathetic to people who make the choice to have carers visiting their house. "It's only natural that people can be reluctant to leave their homes," she says. "Everybody here is so kind and lovely," said a resident recently. "I'd tell everyone to move into Sunrise of Sevenoaks. I tell all my friends how wonderful it is. The food is lovely, I couldn't think of anywhere better to live."
Once that decision is made to move into a care setting, everyone - from the resident to their family -can relax. "The difference can be huge," says Stephanie. "Daughters, for instance, often tell me that their relationship with their mother or father improves because a huge burden of worry has lifted from their shoulders." "But you have to be sure that it really is the right choice. If anyone needs the peace of mind of 24hour care, or is lonely, or feels they're placing an unfair burden on family members, then a residential care home - like Sunrise - is by far the better choice." The debate over the rights and wrongs of carers visiting for as little as half-an-hour a day is surely going to grow. But, while there are residential care home settings such as Sunrise of Sevenoaks available, people will always be able to choose 24hour peace of mind.
Pop in for a tour today, or call us on 01732 748 400 to find out more. Sunrise of Sevenoaks, 64-70 Westerham Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2PZ
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23/03/2015 11:27
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SO
Patient Centred Care at Burrswood Hospital Independent 40-bed (single ensuite rooms) Christian hospital, providing short-term medical and nursing care to patients of all faiths and none. Personalised, compassionate clinical care is provided with dignity and respect by our highly skilled team of doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, counsellors, chaplains and support staff.
Burrswoo@
We offer: • Rehabilitation following surgery or major illness • Respite Care • End of Life Care • Treatment for CFS/M E • Spiritual & Pastoral Support • Counselling, Physiotherapy & Hydrotherapy on an inpatient and outpatient basis Burrswood, Groombridge, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 9PV
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L AT E R L I F E
SO
what are your options? People today are living longer, healthier lives, which makes planning for those future years increasingly important. We look at some of the choices for you and your family to consider
STATISTICS SHOW THAT the average life expectancy in the UK is getting higher. English males can now expect to live 78.4 years, while for English women it’s slightly higher at 82.4 years. This means that children born today are expected to live two years longer than children born a decade ago. But it’s not just about planning ahead. It’s also about the issues some of you might be facing today, or maybe you have older relatives unable to live without some form of support. There are now numerous choices available, which can be hugely beneficial to the person entering this new chapter of their life, as well as to their family. Each option can be tailored to different needs and requirements, so whether you or a family member wants to live independently or requires full-time assistance, there is always a solution. We take a look at some of those options and give you an overview of the different services, while also providing advice on that all important question of financial planning.
DOMICILIARY CARE This is where you are looked after by a personal healthcare professional in the comfort of your own home. You are afforded the freedom and familiarity of staying at home with a few modifications to make mobility and day-to-day living easier and more convenient. Your personal carer visits once or twice a day, ensuring you are kept safe and healthy without infringing on your independence. So, you are able to live your life in a familiar and comfortable environment, while also being safe in the knowledge that you have someone to call upon whenever you need them. From £12-16 p/hr Appeals to: People who are capable of looking after themselves but would benefit from daily contact and check-ins
LIVE-IN CARE This means that you get to continue living at home, with your personal carer coming to live with and care for you full time. Having someone close by at all times can make everyday tasks considerably easier. Furthermore, extended company with a carer can do wonders for your emotional wellbeing, as they come to know your habits, preferences and requirements intimately, resulting in a more effective relationship that can adapt as needed. It also means peace of mind for your family, who can rest easy knowing that there is always someone at home to look out for you. From £600 p/wk Appeals to: People who are no longer capable of looking after themselves but don’t want to move out of their home
SHELTERED HOUSING This is where you live independently in designated grouped housing such as a block of flats. Often run by housing associations who work closely with local authorities on a not-for-profit basis, these schemes allow you to look after yourself and come and go as you wish, living your life freely from an established, reliable base. Living as part of a close-knit housing area also allows for a more social environment, where you can be part of a friendly, supportive community. A manager or officer also resides on site, offering assistance in the case of an emergency. From £12-20 p/wk plus rent or mortgage payments Appeals to: People who are capable of looking after themselves but prefer to live in a more communal environment
CARE HOMES CARE HOMES WITH NURSING These are for people who are no longer able to live at Care homes with nursing are purpose-built facilities aimed home by themselves, at people with medical providing a wealth of disabilities who are no convenience in a safe, longer able to be cared for or comfortable and social look after themselves at environment. They are home. Nursing aides and staffed 24 hours a day with skilled nurses are available all your meals provided, so 24 hours a day, providing you can relax and feel right premium medical care at home, meeting new where home carers are people and making new unqualified to do so. Visiting friends along the way. The hours are generally more variety of activities on offer flexible than hospitals, means you can stay busy. meaning you can see more You can also lead a quieter of your loved ones. lifestyle in a peaceful Stimulating activities are environment. With a organised and communal communal atmosphere you’ll grounds provided, enabling be able to enjoy you to socialise with the company of others, safe fellow residents while in the knowledge you’re on the mend. that you’re being cared for From £1,200-1,400 p/wk round the clock. Appeals to: People with From £700-800 p/wk medical conditions who Appeals to: People who are no longer capable of are no longer capable of looking after themselves looking after themselves and require day-to-day living and require 24-hour medical assistance assistance
FINANCIAL PLANNING Financial planning for later life is something that is certainly worth thinking about early. The first step is to talk to an Independent Financial Adviser (IFA) with whom you can discuss a risk assessment, evaluate your financial status and explore all the available avenues. Pensions are generally the most popular safety net option, as this is something you can gradually save for and contribute to throughout your working adult life.
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journey of a LIFETIME As her latest foodie film becomes available on DVD, veteran British film star Helen Mirren talks to Susan Griffin about bad cookery, friendly Italians and an unexpected phone call WHENEVER HELEN MIRREN’S in need of
over 100 credits to her
a little pick-me-up, she searches out a slice or
name, Mirren confesses
two of eggy bread.
she couldn’t believe it
“My mother used to make it – oh, it’s amazing,” she says, a wistful look in her eye as she pictures the naughty treat. Fried carbs might not be the first snack that
when Spielberg rang. “It was that classic phone call of, ‘It’s Steven Spielberg on the line for
comes to mind when you think of the
you’. And whenever an
Academy Award winner but, as she states,
actor is lucky enough to
she “eats to live – I don’t live to eat”. And she
receive that phone call,
loves food, particularly “fuel-type food, like
you never believe it and
mashed potatoes and fried bread”.
think someone’s having
Today, the 69-year-old is looking healthy, trim
you on,” says Mirren,
and elegant in a fitted berry red dress and
who began her career as
heels. While you sense the Dame doesn’t
Cleopatra at the National
suffer fools, she radiates a down-to-earth
Youth Theatre, earned a
warmth. For instance, on hearing that Manish
legion of fans as DCI
Dayal (her co-star in her latest film, The
Jane Tennison in the
Hundred-Foot Journey) had preconceived ideas
1990s TV series Prime
Caption to go here
of what she’d be like before meeting her, only
Suspect and won an Oscar for her title role in
theirs, but underestimate the lengths the
to realise later that they actually share the same
The Queen in 2007.
proprietor of the establishment, Madame
“dirty sense of humour”, she starts laughing
The Hundred-Foot Journey – which was
Mallory (Mirren), will go to in her attempts to
released on DVD last month – follows Hassan
close the gaudy restaurant. But even she
(Dayal), a culinary ingénue with the gastronomic
can’t deny Hassan’s talent and ultimately
of the 31-year-old, who starred in teen series
equivalent of perfect pitch, and his family, led
helps him on a journey that brings the warring
90210 before being plucked by the movie’s
by Papa (Om Puri), as they move to a quaint
factions together.
producers, Steven Spielberg and Oprah Winfrey,
village in the South of France with the plan of
to play the lead in the big screen adaptation of
opening an Indian restaurant.
“He’s an absolute charmer, isn’t he?” she says
the bestselling novel.
Picture: Anthony Devlin/PA Photos
Despite almost 50 years in the business and
They’re undeterred by the fact a Michelin starred eatery stands just 100ft across from
With co-star Om Puri
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“I thought it was a charming story and loved the fact it was going to be shot in the South of France, as I’ve always secretly wanted to be a French actress and I thought it would be an
Picture: PA Photos/Entertainment one
heartily. “I’d admit to that, yes.”
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“I DO INCREDIBLE BAKED BEANS ON TOAST, MARMALADE ON TOAST AND CHEESE ON TOAST”
Picture: PA Photos/Entertainment one
Captio
opportunity to
the same way about acting, “but I really don’t so
pretend to be
much any more,” she reflects.
that,” says
“I love my profession, don’t get me wrong
Mirren, who was
and I’m very committed. But I’m not obsessed
brought up in
the way I used to be, especially as a very young
Essex to a British
actress. It was a church for me, my religion.”
mother and
“He’s very good at cooking pasta, in the sense of knowing when to get it out of the water, which is an art form, but neither of us are great chefs.” That would suggest the time they spend in Puglia, southern Italy, isn’t spent in the kitchen. Although they have houses in the UK and US,
Mirren might play a woman who can detect whether someone has the potential to become
Mirren considers their Italian home a haven,
and lived in Paris as a young woman, when she
a great chef with one bite of an omelette, but
somewhere she can be herself, even if she isn’t
toured the world as part of the renowned director
she wouldn’t consider herself quite in that
entirely anonymous when she goes out there.
Peter Brook’s theatre company.
bracket in real life.
Russian father,
There are wonderful moments in the movie,
“I am known as ‘The Actress’ there, ‘l’attrice’, and that’s all they call me,” she says, smiling.
“I do incredible baked beans on toast,
not least a scene in which Madame Mallory
marmalade on toast, cheese on toast,” she
“’We saw the actress in the restaurant’, ‘we
berates one of her chefs for allowing a limp
confides, grinning. “I love food and love to eat
saw the actress in the supermarket’, but at the
asparagus to be served and then produces the
but I’ve never been a great cook. Occasionally I’ll
same time, it’s southern Italy, so they’re
offending item from a napkin. Their attitude
cook something that’s fabulous, but then forget
incredibly hospitable and welcoming.”
towards food should be akin to a passionate
how I did it because I make it up as I go along.”
affair, she reminds her staff. Mirren reveals there was time when she felt
Last autumn she began shooting her next movie, Eye In The Sky.
Her husband, the director Taylor Hackford, who she married in 1997, isn’t much better.
“It’s about drone warfare and is as different as you can imagine from this movie,” says Mirren, who will be playing a military commander. And it will need to go some way to beat the atmosphere on set for The
Hundred-Foot Journey. “It was a very happy film and it felt like a real Picture: PA Photos/Entertainment one
family making this movie; it’s lovely when it happens like that,” she says. “With the big movie stars, it’s very hard to get that feeling going, because they’ve done so much, they’ve seen so much, they’re so self-defensive and protected, they find it hard to be natural and easy. But with this sort of movie, people are just more relaxed.” The Hundred-Foot Journey is available on DVD now.
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ADVERTORIAL
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L AT E R L I F E
MATTBUCK
Bernard Cribbins
A THIRD OF CHILDREN QUESTIONED SAID THEY DIDN’T KNOW WHAT THEIR GRANDPARENTS HAD DONE FOR A LIVING, WITH 37% HAVING NO IDEA WHERE THEIR GRAN AND GRANDDAD GREW UP
KEEPING MEMORIES ALIVE
We discover how a new schools initiative is bridging the gap between generations FROM FASCINATING WARTIME
head teachers.
of older people think younger people are simply not interested in what they have to say. A third of children questioned said they didn’t know what their grandparents had done for a living, with 37% having no idea where their gran and granddad grew up. Sadly, 14% of older people say they never
The project is being supported by the veteran
see the children in their family and 68% don’t
televisions, computers and mobile phones
actor Bernard Cribbins, 85, whose 70-year career
have any regular contact with children outside
became part of everyday life – older people
has included Carry On films, Jackanory and Dr
their family.
have so much valuable experience and
Who. The actor, who is known to today’s
knowledge to share with today’s children. Yet
children as the star of the CBeebies series Old
Primary Headteachers (NPH) organisation,
three quarters of the elderly (76%) think their
Jack’s Boat, says: “Everybody has a story to tell
says: “We think it’s vital that children have a
life experiences won’t be passed on, despite
and children love to listen to stories.
good understanding of how the world around
memories, to how we had fun before
them having advice they’d like to share with
“It’s so important to encourage new
Paul Walker, Chairperson of the National
them has been shaped and knowing how
generations to spend time speaking with their
previous generations lived is so important for
seniors. It’s not just sitting with your gran for 10
our youngsters as they learn how the world
unique and valuable accounts of recent history
minutes at Christmas; it’s about building more
has changed.”
are not lost forever, a new initiative has been
contact with older people into everyday lives.”
Steve Allen, Chief Executive of the charity
Cribbins stresses that the idea is for both
Friends of the Elderly, agrees that facilitating
younger generations. In a bid to ensure that as many of these often
launched in schools to get children and the elderly together to chat about the past. It’s hoped
older people and children to swap stories –
the sharing of stories between the old and
that, as well as preserving individual accounts of
something each generation will benefit from.
young is a valuable exercise, pointing out that
life throughout the 20th century, the Life
“Older people still have important things to
talking to children could help combat loneliness in the older generation.
Histories scheme, created by care home
say and deserve to be listened to – as do
provider Anchor, will also help reduce some of
children,” he says. “We can all learn a lot by
the loneliness felt by older generations.
listening to each other’s stories and I strongly
change the future of loneliness by encouraging
“We believe that the opportunity exists to
believe the older generation have a wealth of
families and whole communities to stay
the country to help children find out more
life experience and knowledge to pass on.
connected,” he says. “We know that cross-
about the older people in their communities.
Encouraging a child to take part in this initiative
generational contact is especially important
Special teaching guide packs, designed to
will help them to interact more with older
and sharing stories is a wonderful way to
deliver key National Curriculum learning
people, which is hugely important for both
connect the generations.”
outcomes for children in Years Five and Six
young and old.”
For more on the Life Histories initiative,
The initiative is encouraging schools across
(ages nine to 11), have been issued to 15,000
The Anchor research found nearly half (47%)
visit www.anchor.org.uk/lifehistories
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HOMES
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
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WHOLESALE NURSERY OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Easter Weekend 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th APRIL Opening times: Fri 9am- 5pm, Sat & Sun 9am- 5pm, Bank Holiday Monday 9am- 5pm
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GARDENS
SO
GLORIOUS GARDENS
Emma Davies, who runs The Walled Nursery in Hawkhurst with her husband Monty, reveals how you could enjoy a bumper crop of vegetables this year, even in a small garden
YOU MAY NOT HAVE enough space to
prevented with regular, consistent watering,
Cavolo Nero (which is hard to find in
create an allotment style garden but,
allowing calcium to be taken up to the plant.
supermarkets but knocks the socks off curly
nevertheless, you may want to give growing
Next, runner beans and French beans – you
kale for taste and texture) will keep producing
vegetables a try. Well, why wouldn’t you? You
can have a plentiful supply, just make sure you
leaves all through summer and, if you sow again
have the peace of mind that there are no nasty
have a large container and get a tepee or line of
in the autumn, through winter too. You simply
chemicals involved, you don’t have to pay for
canes in place firmly before the beans start to
pick off the leaves as you need them – fresh as
them – beyond buying seeds and compost –
grow. They drink water like it’s going out of
you can get! You do need to watch out for
and you don’t have to drive to the shops to get
fashion, but they will keep you in beans for
Cabbage White Butterflies with your kale, so
your five a day!
most of the summer and some varieties are
netting may be required later on in the season.
very decorative too. French beans can be sown
Both crops require medium sized pots.
But what if you have very limited space – which vegetables are happy in containers?
again in July to give you a later crop and there
There are the obvious: tomatoes, peppers,
are dwarf varieties that require no staking at all.
cucumbers and aubergines, which all need a
Carrots are easy in containers, just make sure
Salad leaves, if you choose ‘cut and come again’ varieties and sow in succession, will keep you in fresh salad all summer. You don’t need a
sunny spot. You can buy growbags, especially
you have a good, free draining compost for
deep container for these as they are very
for tomatoes, although we aren’t actually fans
them to grow in. Do raise your container up by
shallow-rooted.
of growbags because we find watering tricky.
60cm (2ft), as Carrot Fly – the biggest pest
They are shallow, flat bags, however and they
when it comes to carrots – can sniff out a carrot
bath to grow carrots in, adding a quirky and
do contain all of the necessary nutrients for
from miles away. However, they are low flyers
upcycled element to our garden. You can pop
great fruiting. We deal with this by emptying the
so raising the plants up solves this problem. If
the odd veg plants in among flowers in a bed if
growbags into five-litre pots, which makes it
you are seriously short on space though, carrots
you want to. Why not give it a go? You’ll be
much easier to retain water.
are cheap to buy, so do you really want to use
surprised how easy it is.
You do need to be consistent with watering
Remember to mix it up a bit; we use our old
up your valuable space with them? Mind you,
fruiting veg such as tomatoes, as they can
once you’ve grown your own carrots, you’ll
Happy gardening!
suffer from blossom end rot, where the base of
realise the taste is hard to beat!
Emma
the fruits go black or brown. This condition is
Now, on to leaves. Perpetual spinach and Kale
www.thewallednursery.com
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INTERVIEW
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A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A NURSERY OWNER Whether it’s making pots of tea or potting plants, Harry Cunningham, proprietor of King John’s Nursery in Etchingham, is the ultimate constant gardener… FAMILY BUSINESS
CAKE BREAK
“One of the main reasons customers come to
“I grab lunch whenever I can. Sometimes it
NAME: HARRY CUNNINGHAM
us is the gardens, which my mum opens every
won’t be until about 3pm or 4pm, especially if
AGE: 39
day and looks after. I give her plants for the
we’ve had a coach tour visiting. I’ll either go
LIVES: ETCHINGHAM
garden and propagate plants from there, but
home and have a quick sandwich or sometimes
OCCUPATION: NURSERY OWNER
luckily I don’t have to do the gardening as well!
I’ll treat myself to a cake from the tearoom.”
INTERESTING FACT: CAN REMEMBER THE NAMES OF OVER 2,000 PLANTS
It’s great having family on site, because I can do the job I love while knowing my children are
LABEL LABOUR
(BUT IS TERRIBLE AT REMEMBERING
there in the background.”
“At the moment it’s still early in the season, so
PEOPLE’S NAMES)
I’m sowing seeds and potting things up like EARLY START
mad, and tidying things up that have been
“I have a three-year-old and an 18-month-old,
neglected all winter. I also have to do a lot of
so what time I get up depends on whether I
labelling, which is the bane of my life! The
get disturbed by them! Typically I’m woken up
plastic breaks and the pens run out, so every
any time between 4am and 7am, then the day
six months you have to re-label everything! Of
begins with helping my wife to get them up,
course, it doesn’t help when your children
fed and dressed. After the children are sorted,
come along and pull them out…”
it’s time to feed the animals – we have a bit of a ‘good life’ lifestyle here, so we have dogs,
FAIR WEATHER
ducks, chicken and even sheep.”
“When the weather’s bad I worry we won’t
“AT THE MOMENT IT’S JUST ME WHO WORKS HERE, SO I DO EVERYTHING FROM RUNNING THE SHOP TO SERVING DRINKS IN THE TEAROOM TO DOING THE GARDENING”
have any customers, but by the afternoon, GOING TO POT
when the sun starts to come out, it brings
“The nursery opens at 10am, so I’ll plan on
people out. I love working outside and don’t
potting and planting first, but usually I’m
mind the cold, but spring is my favourite time
inundated with emails so I need to get through
for everything in life. I get through winter with
those first. I head out to see what needs doing,
my plants because they’re all herbaceous
and generally I’ll just be getting into some
perennials, so they go year after year, but
propagating or potting when I’ll be interrupted
when you’re cutting the dead crinkly bits off
by customers, which obviously I don’t mind.”
and seeing new shoots come through and at the same time the birds are all singing, it’s
JACK OF ALL TRADES
impossible not to love spring.”
“At the moment it’s just me who works here, so I do everything from running the shop to serving
AFTER HOURS
drinks in the tearoom to doing the gardening.
“The nursery closes at 5pm, so I’ll head home,
Plus there’s all the advertising, PR and buying to
walk the dogs and then spend time with the
do too. Sometimes I’ll have just served a
family. Sometimes I’ll catch up on paperwork
customer in the shop and then I’ll run round and
too, or sneak back out and finish doing some
pour them a drink in the tearoom. It’s great being
potting while there are no interruptions…”
on a personal level with the customers though – a lot of them have become friends.”
www.kingjohnsnursery.co.uk
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Select a Prepared Pot of Bulbs
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PRETTY AS A PICTURE
When looking for garden inspiration this spring, there can be few better hunting grounds than Kent and East Sussex’s beautiful stately homes. Our occasional series continues with another National Trust property, Scotney Castle in Lamberhurst, where the garden is constantly evolving to reflect both past and present influences Photos courtesy of National Trust / John Miller
“WHATEVER TIME OF YEAR IT IS, THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING TO SEE AND ENJOY”
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GARDENS
WHEN YOU STEP into the grounds of Scotney Castle, it’s clear that this is a place where history will always be protected and preserved. At the bottom of the valley, set next to the captivating moat, are the ruins of the medieval castle – a sight that cannot help but inspire a sense of
SO
“OUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE IS TO REMAIN TRUE TO THE ORIGINAL INTENTIONS OF EDWARD HUSSEY III WHEN HE LAID OUT THE LANDSCAPE IN THE 1830S AND 1840S”
romance. Above it on the hill, the 19th century ‘new’ house gazes down upon the castle and the plunging landscape of Scotney’s grounds, where drama is in plentiful supply. For staff gardener Duncan Hunt, the garden’s surprises and twists are a major part of its enduring charm. He’s worked at Scotney Castle for over five years, having joined as a trainee with National Trust’s Careership programme in 2009 and becoming a permanent member of staff the following year.
look interesting as part of their garden.” Although some elements of the 19th century
and fruit trees, which were trained along the walls. “Over the winter we’ve been working hard on
approach might jar with today’s gardeners, there
cutting back rhododendrons and other shrubs, in
garden you’re constantly confronted with new
can be no question about the passion that
order to maintain their health and make sure the
and interesting views,” Duncan says. “A glimpse
Edward Hussey III had for his home; a passion
different views of the Old Castle and the Park
of the ruin through the trees; the Henry Moore
that is still felt today.
don’t become obscured,” Duncan says. “We’ve
“I love the fact that as you move around the
been cutting back and maintaining the
sculpture seen across the moat; the yellow,
“Our biggest challenge is to remain true to the
orange and reds of the Ghent azaleas at the
original intentions of Edward Hussey III when he
herbaceous borders, as well as ordering new
bottom of the quarry; or in the autumn, suddenly
laid out the landscape in the 1830s and 1840s,
plants so we can continue to add new areas of
seeing the Liquidambar in its full red glory down
while recognising that gardens are in a constant
interest to the garden. This year we’re excited to
by the boathouse – whatever time of year it is,
state of change and need to develop,” Duncan
be developing a new border based around a
there’s always something to see and enjoy.”
says. “In renewing existing plantings and
number of different grasses, phlomis, kniphofia
introducing new areas of interest, in particular to
and Salvia guaranitica.”
The new house was built between 1837 and
With Easter, the visitor season begins in earnest
1843 for Edward Hussey III and in his vision for
response to the fact that we are now open 363
the garden, he was already responding to
days a year, we keep in mind the Picturesque
and there will be no rest for Duncan and the team
changing trends in horticultural design. From the
principles that influenced Hussey. We try to use
as they keep this fascinating garden in top shape
early 18th century onwards, British landscape
these to guide us as we design new planting
for the nation to enjoy.
designers had been generally taking inspiration
schemes or redevelop areas that need
from pictures, but by 1800 there had been
refreshing.”
something of a backlash. Critics such as
As ever, nature has inflicted its own ideas on
“From the end of April onwards we’ll be into the mowing season again,” he says. “As a landscape garden we have large areas of lawn
Reverend William Gilpin disliked the work of
Scotney Castle’s gardens, most notably with the
that need a lot of attention. With the warmer
‘Capability’ Brown and similar designs, as he
Great Storm of 1987. Hussey’s Picturesque
weather come the weeds and if we don’t get on
considered the idealised, Romantic movement
composition had an emphasis on bold shape and
top of them early on, we can find ourselves
notion of grassy lawns and perfect vistas to be
strong colour throughout the year, but the storm
playing catch up for the rest of the year. We’re
too smooth and unrealistic. He favoured the more
wreaked havoc on this picture. Fallen cypresses
lucky to have two excellent groups of volunteers
realistic vision of nature, believing that to truly
and cedars were replaced, but the areas newly
who focus on border maintenance and keep
emulate nature, gardens should have rough
exposed by the catastrophe offered fresh
things looking fresh and sharp.”
edges and plenty of drama.
potential for the garden.
While Scotney Castle’s grounds retain one
Today, you can enjoy a classic view of the
of the last expressions of true Picturesque
garden from the semi-circular Bastion, looking
landscape style, they also would have pleased
down to the Old Castle at the foot of the valley
Rev Gilpin with the steep and dramatic
and across to the park rising beyond the beech
slopes, sheltered quarry, open lawn and of
and oak woods. Over the coming months, visitors
course, the brooding castle ruin by the moat.
will have plenty to look forward to in the garden.
It’s the castle, in fact, that appears to
“The end of April is the beginning of the
SCOTNEY CASTLE GARDEN Lamberhurst, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 8JN • 01892 893 820 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ scotney-castle
provoke the strongest feelings among visitors,
rhododendron and azalea season,” Duncan says.
If you’d like to learn more about the
as Duncan explains.
“So for April, May and early June, the garden is
garden while the rhododendrons are in
dominated by the great swathes of colour these
full bloom, you can join a special
shrubs provide.”
guided tour led by a member of the
“The most common question asked by visitors is, ‘Why have you let the castle fall down?’” he says. “The 17th century part of the Old Castle
Currently, work is underway to return some
gardening team on Wednesday May 27.
was partially dismantled on purpose in the 1830s
areas of the garden to the original plans of around
Beginning at 11am, the tour will be
so that it would provide a focal point for the view
1877. One project concerns the restoration of the
followed by tea or coffee in the
from the new mansion. People are usually
Walled Garden and returning it to a working
tearoom. Tickets cost £5 per person,
surprised and shocked that someone would
vegetable garden; plans dating from 1840 were
contact the castle to book.
knock part of their house down just to make it
recently discovered showing the layout of beds
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RICHEST ROADS
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
SO
DO YOU LIVE IN THE WEALD’S
RICHEST ROAD? Our corner of Kent and East Sussex is undoubtedly one of the country’s most beautiful places to live. From vibrant, characterful towns to quintessential English villages, the Weald offers just about every type of property, in every setting, that any home-seeker could wish to find. Those who crave the hustle and bustle of the city often find their dream retreats here – with quick and easy access to London, Weald residents can enjoy the best of both worlds.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG MATTHEWS
However, some areas are more sought-after than others and these coveted hotspots see prices pushed upwards as people battle to secure the most prestigious addresses. With fluctuating market values and ever-changing trends in property, a postcode’s fortunes may both rise and fall – but where is the Weald’s most exclusive road to live in right now?
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RICHEST ROADS
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
If you’d like to know whether you live in the area’s richest road, read on and see where your address appears in the countdown – if it appears at all. Based on the current average property value for that road, lane, court or crescent (according to www.zoopla.co.uk), we reveal the Weald’s most affluent residences. Will the timeless elegance of Royal Tunbridge Wells, with its thriving economy and cultural scene, be the most expensive place to live? Perhaps Sevenoaks will reign victorious, or maybe a coveted country lane near Cranbrook trumps all other locations? Will a road in Tenterden, Crowborough or Tonbridge emerge as the priciest spot to set up home?
Read on to find out – the results might just surprise you… The figures shown are provided by the ZED (Zoopla Estimate) Index, an informal value that is calculated using various factors, including: current values of comparable properties; current asking prices for homes in the local area; recent sold prices for nearby properties; characteristics of the property and surrounding area. For more information visit www.zoopla.co.uk Zed Index values, property availability and prices correct at the time of writing.
07 06 - The Vine, Sevenoaks, Kent Average property value: £2,925,400 Move in: Nothing available here right now, but you can still admire Downs views from a grand three-bedroom penthouse in imposing Sackville Place for £1.85million.
07 - Oak Avenue, Sevenoaks, Kent Average property value: £2,918,600 Move in: You’re in luck if you’d like this impressive address – there’s a six-bedroom detached house on the market for £1,995,000.
08 - Parkfield, Sevenoaks, Kent Average property value: £2,801,600 Move in: Move quickly if you’d like to make a splash in Parkfield – a five-bedroom house with a swimming pool can be yours for a mere £2.85million.
09 - Wildernesse Avenue, Sevenoaks, Kent Average property value: £2,772,500 Move in: You’ll go wild for a stunning Palladian
01
style five-bedroom residence on the prestigious Wildernesse Estate, priced at £3million.
01 - Phillippines Shaw, Ide Hill, Kent Average property value: £3,666,900 Move in: You currently have the opportunity to enjoy the Weald’s most prestigious address by purchasing a three-bedroom apartment in a stunning period property, priced at £3million.
02 - Dewlands Hill, Crowborough, East Sussex Average property value: £3,642,700
05
Move in: Join the in-crowd by snapping up a six-bedroom Grade II listed house for a
Move in: No properties available on Ruck
mere £5.2million.
Lane currently, but a four-bedroom detached house with a large rear garden in nearby
03 - Twitten Cottages, Wallcrouch,
Brenchley Road is on the market for a
Wadhurst, East Sussex
bargain £500,000.
Average property value: £3,281,700 Move in: None of these cottages are currently
05 - Mote Road, Ivy Hatch, Kent
for sale, but you could preside over a 22-acre
Average property value: £3,029,900
smallholding with a four-bedroom detached
Move in: There are no properties on the
house off the nearby High Street, for £995,000.
market in coveted Mote Road right now, but you can enjoy village life in nearby Ightham –
04 - Ruck Lane, Horsmonden, Kent
invest in a 10-bedroom Georgian house with
Average property value: £3,060,500
Grade II listed cottage for £2.99million.
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RICHEST ROADS
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
SO
10 10 - Dux Hill, Plaxtol, Kent
11 - Allens Lane, Plaxtol, Kent
Average property value: £2,732,100
Average property value: £2,715,600
Move in: You’re out of luck with this coveted
Move in: Properties in this popular road
address at the moment, but up the road in The
are not easy to come by, but you can live
Street there’s an attractive detached house
in neighbouring Brook Lane. How about
with conservatory available for £525,000.
a three-bedroom converted oasthouse for £725,000?
12 - Woodland Rise, Sevenoaks, Kent Average property value: £2,558,100 Move in: You’ll be above average with a newly built, six-bedroom house on the Wildernesse Estate, priced at £3.85million.
11
13 - Windmill Road, Sevenoaks, Kent Average property value: £2,537,300
15 - Mapleton Road, Westerham
Move in: Nothing available at the moment,
Average property value: £2,316,500
but you have the chance to make your mark
Move in: Buyers will have to wait if they
in nearby Brattle Wood, where a 0.33-acre
want to become a resident here, but the
plot of land is for sale with a building contract
impatient can snap up a four-bedroom house
for a six-bedroom detached house – all for
set in 3.3 acres not far away in Crockham Hill
just £1,695,000.
for £1,795,000.
14 - Grove Road, Seal, Kent
16 - Seal Drive, Seal, Kent
Average property value: £2,453,500
Average property value: £2,304,100
Move in: No one wants to give up their home
Move in: Nothing available at the time of
here right now, but up the road in Park Lane,
writing, but you can experience Seal life in
a five-bedroom detached house with a home
the nearby High Street by investing in a
office and extra accommodation is yours
three-bedroom flat with scope to extend,
for £2.75million.
priced at £310,000.
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RICHEST ROADS
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
17 - Wrens Warren, Chuck Hatch,
21 - Pound Lane, Framfield,
Hartfield, East Sussex
East Sussex
Average property value: £2,289,600
Average property value: £2,112,900
Move in: You’re in luck – but move quickly to
Move in: For the time being you may have
secure a fabulous six-bedroom country house,
to content yourself with a six-bedroom house
with delightful views of, and direct access to,
in Framfield Lane, priced at £595,000 –
Ashdown Forest, on the market for £2.45million.
although the superb gardens are sure to be a consolation.
18 - Rotherhurst Lane, Rotherfield, East Sussex
22 - The Crossway, Nevill Court,
Average property value: £2,227,300
Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Move in: It’s not easy to find a home in this
Average property value: £2,082,900
coveted road, but not far away in High Cross,
Move in: Want to live here? No problem –
you could take advantage of the potential to
all you’ll need is £1.75million to pick up the
extend a two-bedroom semi-detached house,
keys to a four-bedroom detached house with
available for £319,950.
two garages.
22
19 19 - Hamptons, Park Road,
23 - Black Hill, Crowborough,
25 - Waller Hill, Frittenden, Kent
Hadlow, Kent
East Sussex
Average property value: £2,050,400
Average property value: £2,226,300
Average property value: £2,074,300
Move in: Prospective buyers need to be
Move in: There’s a chance to create your
Move in: There are two great opportunities to
patient if they want to live on Waller Hill, but
dream home from scratch and at least be
build your ideal home here. Currently on the
you could entertain yourself on the tennis
close to this sought-after spot – in nearby
market are 27-acre and 22-acre plots of land,
court of a five-bedroom 16th century home in
Roughway you can buy a plot with a proposal
priced at £270,000 and £225,000 respectively.
Grandshore Lane instead.
for a four-bedroom house, all for £1.25million.
24 - Akehurst Lane,
26 - Yeoman’s Meadows,
20 - Snag Lane, Cudham, Kent
Sevenoaks, Kent
Sevenoaks, Kent
Average property value: £2,221,500
Average property value: £2,056,000
Average property value: £2,040,000
Move in: It’s not quite in Snag Lane, but you
Move in: No one’s in a hurry to move out of
Move in: A 0.6-acre plot comes with
can live just moments away in Cudham Lane
this road, but a stylish 1930s detached house
permission to demolish the current property,
North, where a five-bedroom house with a
with four bedrooms is available in nearby
offering potential to create your own perfect
0.33-acre plot will set you back £735,000.
Knole Way, on the market for £1million.
residence – price on application for this one.
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RICHEST ROADS
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
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AND THE REST… Did your address make the top 50? 31 - Enfield Road, Leigh, Kent Average property value: £1,913,900
32 - Rectory Lane, Brasted, Kent Average property value: £1,868,400
33 - Pocket Hill, Sevenoaks, Kent Average property value: £1,852,900
34 - Moat Lane, Chiddingstone Hoath, Kent Average property value: £1,833,800
35 - Clarks Lane, Tatsfield, Kent
27 - Mill Lane, Westerham
28 - Wheatsheaf Hill,
Average property value £2,016,600
Ide Hill, Kent
Move in: No properties available here
Average property value: £1,994,800
currently, but who wouldn’t want to live in
Move in: Available properties here are thin
Westerham’s beautiful High Street? You can
on the ground, but there’s a quaint Victorian
join the distinguished residents by moving
style, two-bedroom cottage for sale in
into a three-bedroom character home, with a
Nightingale Lane, not far away in Goathurst
37 - Kippington Road, Sevenoaks, Kent
£775,000 asking price.
Common, for £475,000.
Average property value: £1,811,900
29 - Nunnery Lane,
38 - Kippington Close, Sevenoaks, Kent
28
Penshurst, Kent Average property value: £1,929,300 Move in: If you can bear to not live in Nunnery
Average property value: £1,828,800
36 - Buckland Hill, Cousley Wood, Wadhurst, East Sussex Average property value: £1,815,400
Average property value: £1,789,800
Lane itself, there’s a great chance to build a
39 - Gracious Lane End, Sevenoaks, Kent
detached house of over 2,100 sq ft on a
Average property value: £1,782,800
five-acre plot in nearby Penshurst Road – yours for £825,000.
30 - Calverley Park, Tunbridge Wells, Kent Average property value: £1,915,400 Move in: Here you can enjoy not only a prestigious address but a particularly notable property. A five-bedroom detached house designed by Decimus Burton himself is on the market for £2.85million.
40 - Hollyhill, Colemans Hatch, Hartfield, East Sussex Average property value: £1,782,200
41 - The Midway, Nevill Court, Tunbridge Wells, Kent Average property value: £1,763,400
42 - Tatsfield Lane, Tatsfield, Kent Average property value: £1,739,400
43 - Marle Place Lane, Brenchley, Kent Average property value: £1,721,200
44 - Pump Lane, Framfield, East Sussex Average property value: £1,707,100
45 - Chiddingstone, Kent Average property value: £1,703,700
46 - French Street, Westerham, Kent Average property value: £1,701,000
47 - Bramble Lane, Sevenoaks, Kent Average property value: £1,700,600
48 - Holtye, Cowden, Kent Average property value: £1,695,200
49 - Sackville Place, Sevenoaks, Kent Average property value: £1,670,000
50 - Gover View, Roughway, Tonbridge
30
Average property value: £1,657,800
APRIL 2015
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a new season/ a fresh start! 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 and SAVE up to 50%* at the same time. Are you looking for an essential piece of cookware for the kitchen or some contemporary tableware to entertain your guests? Bright and playful bed linen, or towels to co-ordinate with a specific scheme. Fenwick has it all! Add character and personality to your home this spring. Plus, whilst in store, enjoy up to 50% off* Luggage throughout the Home Event too!
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INTERIORS
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
Consol table, Havana pom pom cushion, Lucia table lamp, Luna rug – all Fearne Cotton for Very Living
Fresh looks for spring Give your home a magnificent makeover with this season’s most vibrant interiors trends
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INTERIORS
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
SO
is grounded in a modern palette of black, white and grey,” says Emma Mann, Head of Home Design at Sainsbury’s. “Striking patterns on textiles and ceramics have a distinctly tribal feel, while brass and copper detailing lift the colour palette and add a subtle sense of luxury. Concrete, matte and gloss finishes are mixed throughout our collection to add depth to this sophisticated, fashion-forward look.” DECOR TIP: While white walls and black paintwork have impact, dressing windows with black blinds or shutters brings real drama. Hillarys has a selection of made-to-measure blinds and shutters in dramatic black (www.hillarys.co.uk).
SUPER SHORE Blend together perennially popular coastal style and the more edgy global/traveller style for an irresistible decor combination, appropriate for any location, urban or seaside. “Pure, simple and timeless, the old maritime look is a fresh interpretation of the classic Papilio 11079 wallpaer, Folio velvet fabrics on chairs – both Harlequin
geographical map-inspired style,” says Ysanne
J
Jenkins, Executive Director for Home at House ust like relationships, homes suffer over
combined look is with leather chairs, chunky
of Fraser. “Red and navy striped linens are
time from familiarity and once that early
chests and fashionable copper accessories
balanced with washed, earthy tones for a
passion for decor and DIY has faded,
– so that it’s solid, swaggering and has almost
sophisticated nautical feel. Leather and rope
rooms can end up sad, pale shadows of
a gentleman’s club or captain’s cabin feel.
detailing work alongside tarnished metal
their former selves.
Plump for whichever appeals, or take an
Who wants an interior that, while it may be as
element from each trend, and you could breathe
cosy as a pair of slippers, doesn’t pack a punch in
new life into jaded schemes and fall in love with
style terms and says nothing about your taste
your home all over again...
surfaces, to add a New England take on key home accent pieces.” DECOR TIP: Stripe fabrics for cushions, upholstery or tablecloths instantly evoke images
now? To stay fresh and appealing, it’s good to shake things up every now and then and – timing
SPRING GREENS
is all – this year’s trends have just burst onto the
Nature’s still a hot trend, with rich greens and
scene with plenty to inspire.
florals featuring on a variety of designs. This look
PINK & PASTELS
retains a hold on our rooms because of our
Colour goes pop this year, as punchy pinks and a
now - colour, especially exotic, rich pink, is taking
continuing desire to ‘bring the outdoors in’, but
parade of pastels battle for attention and look set
centre stage, sweeping away blandness with
this year, there’s a variety of options to choose
to finally win over even those who’ve forsworn
clashing shades and zingy hues. If that’s too
from. Gather bold, bright blooms or opt for the
anything but neutrals.
adventurous, there’s a charming botanical look
most sophisticated interpretation, which
featuring blooms birds, and bees, or you could
emulates pin-sharp accurate botanical designs,
you’ll need to stay calm or buy sunglasses, as
see things simply in black and white and
depicting flowers, foliage and insects, especially
the colours that are coming through are bold,
embrace sophisticated, sleek monochrome.
butterflies.
bright and even clashing,” says Sarah Quilliam,
Lovers of all things neutral should look away
of beach huts and deckchairs.
“If you love pale colours and soft neutrals,
Classic coastal’s taken on board elements of
“We’ve taken inspiration from antique,
global style and the smart way to interpret this chic
botanical illustrations for our collection,” says
specialists, Hillarys. “Bringing a pop of colour into
Claire Roberts, Print Designer at Marks &
your home can liven up every room in very
Spencer. “One of my favourites features delicate
different ways. Colours in blocks are a significant
nature – fern leaves mixed with an ultramodern
way of working with vibrant shades, but you’ll
black base, for a design that works effortlessly.”
also see graphic monochromes combined with
Head of Product Design for blind and shutter
sharp punches of a single bright accent colour, DECOR TIP: A group wall display of botanical
like chartreuse, yellow and bold pink. Loud
prints in matching frames is an easy fast-track to
and proud, this trend is not for shrinking
this look.
violets! And it’s time to throw out the rule book when it comes to what goes
MASTER MONOCHROME
with what.”
Chic black and white is still the most striking way
Willow natural wallpaper, Cayman wooden chandelier, Greenwich padded chairs and dining extending table – all Marks & Spencer
to update a room; this versatile scheme is a
DECOR TIP: Show how style-savvy you are
trend leader and works particularly well with
by reflecting two trends, such as botanical
Eastern touches in accessories or furniture.
patterns and zingy colour. Alternatively, show
“Simplicity is key for this graphic trend, which
your commitment to pink by painting a wall in
APRIL 2015
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~ interior design by
~~eaC. /J'J'(}
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20/03/2015 15:21
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FINISHING TOUCHES
Meet the leading local companies whose products can add that extra touch of class to your exceptional home
CATCHPOLE & RYE Catchpole and Rye Ltd, manufacturers of bespoke
SKINNERS OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS
luxury bathroom-ware, have come out on top yet again, by
Having recently visited London Design Week it was satisfying to
offering this exquisite single marble washstand in a beautiful
know that Skinners of Tunbridge Wells are completely up to date
black marble with nickel basin. The whole washstand emits
with the current collections in our showroom. Drawing inspiration
an air of contemporary classic chic that will look good for
from traditional designs, the current trend featuring animals and
years to come. Brimming with exceptional bathroom pieces,
vibrant colours has been given a modern makeover, bringing the fun
a visit to either our London or Kent showroom is
back into interiors. Companies such as Voyage and Cole & Son offer
not to be missed.
an inspirational selection of themed wallcoverings and fabrics, while
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9 BARRIERS & BOLLARDS
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Security LONDON
The Gate House 93-97 Homesdale Road Bromley Kent BR2 9LE 020 8290 5050
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Ace House 28 London Road Southborough Tunbridge Wells KentTN4 OQB 01732 600 600 01 892 280 280
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HOME FRONT
This month brings Easter and with it, the promise of fresh starts as
stunning Wealden homes coming up in this month’s issue.
nature bursts into life all around us. The spring holiday is a fantastic
Those who love the Kent and East Sussex countryside will be spoiled for
excuse to get the family together at home and, weather willing, enjoy
choice with the delightful rural retreats on offer, many offering
the garden perhaps for the first time this year.
spectacular views. There’s the Georgian country house in Goudhurst that
It’s also an opportunity to take a fresh look at your home and think about
comes with its own tennis court, or the Grade II listed Sussex farmhouse
the seasons to come – is your property everything you would wish it to
in Ticehurst with inspiring reception rooms. Perhaps a 16th century
be, or is it time for a change? When the chocolate’s all eaten and the egg
timber framed house in Biddenden is more your style, with its beautifully
hunt is over, you might decide to take flight and begin the search for a
tended landscaped gardens? Read on for more inspiration and you’ll be
new nest elsewhere – in which case, you’re in for a real treat with the
packing your bags for pastures new in no time…
GOUDHURST
TICEHURST
BIDDENDEN
MAYFIELD
ROBERTSBRIDGE
Georgian detached house
Grade II listed former
Six acres of land surround
Views over an Area of
You can have grand designs
with tennis court and cottage
farmhouse in an acre of land
this 16th century retreat
Outstanding Natural Beauty
on this rural Huf Haus
Price: £2.5million
Price: £1,425,000
Price: £1.95million
Price: £835,000
Price: £1,695,000
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BEAUTIFUL HOMES
CHARMING 16 CENTURY GEM
TH
Discover a Grade II listed heritage home just a short distance from beautiful Ticehurst
FORMERLY KNOWN AS Gravel Pit
this character home warmth and charm.
Farm, the delightful Baber House is
The dining and drawing rooms are
believed to date from the late 1500s and
notably appealing spaces, plus there’s an
is Grade II listed, due to its extensive
excellent family room, sitting room and
period features and stunning Sussex
small study.
farmhouse style of architecture. Located just a third of a mile from
Integral appliances and a former inglenook are key features of the
Ticehurst village, Baber House is
kitchen/breakfast room, plus there are
approached via a sweeping driveway
two downstairs cloakrooms and access
surrounded by lawns, mature hedging
to a useful cellar.
and shrub and rose beds. The attractive
Upstairs, you’ll find that all five
grounds extend to just under an acre,
bedrooms are doubles and there
with a pond and summerhouse at
are two good sized bathrooms. In the
the front.
attic room, you may find potential to
Inside you’ll find a wealth of period
create yet more accommodation if
features, such as inglenook fireplaces
required, subject to the necessary
and exposed beams, which really give
planning consents.
For full details contact: Hamptons International • 01892 516 611 • www.hamptons.co.uk 136
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Property: Baber House, former Sussex farmhouse Location: Ticehurst, East Sussex Offers in region of: ÂŁ1,425,000 Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 2 plus WCs Land: Just under one acre Extras: Library area, cellar, attic space, parking area, detached garage, garden store, pond, summerhouse Best bits: Entertaining at Baber House will be a joy, thanks to its wonderful reception rooms. The drawing room is a particular highlight, with its good ceiling height and adjoining library area where you can display your favourite books and read in peace.
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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 & DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANTS
Freephone: 0845 456 8969 Email: steve@sjd-projects.com
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Property: Hawksden Lodge, 17th century detached cottage Location: Witherenden Road, Mayfield, East Sussex Price: £835,000 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 1 plus shower room Land: About 0.92 acre Extras: Double garage, barn with workshop and stores, large terrace, vegetable garden, pond Best bits: Dating from the 1600s, this Grade II listed cottage is packed with charming period features that make this home feel like a piece of living history. The drawing room and one of the bedrooms have inglenook fireplaces and other features include exposed oak beams, oak framed leaded light windows, drop-latch doors and vaulted ceilings in the bedrooms.
FORGING AHEAD IN COUNTRY STYLE
History comes to life in this Grade II listed cottage in a rural spot near Mayfield
JUST A SHORT drive from the attractive
bedroom. An archway opens to the
village of Mayfield lies Hawksden Lodge,
adjacent breakfast room, which also has
an exceptionally charming 17th century
a door to the terrace.
cottage. Being in the High Weald Area of
Upstairs, the master bedroom benefits
Outstanding Natural Beauty means this
from views over the front garden and an
home offers a splendid outlook over its
en suite shower room. There is a currently
own secluded ground and the countryside
disused connecting door to the
beyond..
neighbouring bedroom, which is double
Stepping through the oak front door,
aspect and has an inglenook fireplace fitted
you’ll find a lobby giving access to the
with a wood burner. In the attractive family
double aspect drawing room on one side
bathroom there’s a free-standing roll top
and sitting room on the other; this room
bath and separate shower cubicle.
has a glazed door opening to the
Outside, the terrace is a real asset,
generous brick and flagstone terrace.
providing the ideal place for alfresco
Beyond the drawing room is the
entertaining and enjoying views of the
traditional style kitchen, with its red brick
garden. The rear garden backs onto
floor, electric two-oven night storage AGA
woodland and there’s a section of pond
and secondary staircase to the master
towards the southern boundary.
For full details contact: Savills • 01892 507 000 • www.savills.com APRIL 2015
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BEAUTIFUL HOMES
WEAVING THE MAGIC
For a traditional Kent lifestyle, look no further than this 16th century timber framed house in Biddenden
SET IN STUNNING GROUNDS of
window, a triple aspect morning room
about six acres, Weavers Cot is a
also with inglenook fireplace and a dining
charming Grade II listed country house
room – offer great spaces for
that exudes a sense of Kentish heritage.
entertaining or relaxing. Bespoke oak
Four oriel windows make the frontage
cabinets are a feature of the kitchen/
particularly appealing and the interior is
breakfast room, plus you’ll find a study
packed with period features, from
and cloakroom on this level.
exposed beams and inglenook fireplaces to the original oak Tudor staircase. Already a spacious home providing
Upstairs, there are seven bedrooms and the master chamber has an inglenook fireplace and an en suite
more than 5,000 sq ft of accommodation
shower room. Two family bathrooms
arranged over two floors, there’s
mean everyone can get ready in the
potential to create a self-contained area
mornings, while the balcony is a
in the versatile attic rooms, currently
charming and unusual feature of this
used as a playroom/sitting room,
house. Another original staircase leads
bedroom and storage area.
up to the attic storey.
On the ground floor, the attractive
Those who work at home will love the
reception rooms – comprising a drawing
detached studio and the numerous
room with inglenook fireplace and bay
outbuildings provide plenty of potential.
For full details contact: Jackson-Stops & Staff • 01580 720 000 • www.jackson-stops.co.uk 140
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BEAUTIFUL HOMES
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Property: Weavers Cot, Grade II listed country house Location: Biddenden, Kent Price: ÂŁ1.95million Bedrooms: 8 Bathrooms: 2 plus shower room & WC Land: 6 acres Extras: Attic rooms, balcony, extensive outbuildings, glass house, double garage with storage area, studio with shower room, wildflower meadow, natural ponds, walled kitchen garden, irrigation system, within Cranbrook School catchment area Best bits: Landscaped over a period of 30 years, the gardens and grounds are a real highlight of Weavers Cot â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from growing your own produce in the delightful walled kitchen garden, to strolling along the raised Cob Nut walk or bluebell lined woodland walk, this is a fantastic place to enjoy the nature of the Weald.
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Property: Crowbourne Grange, Georgian detached house Location: Goudhurst, Kent Guide price: £2.5million Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 3 plus 2 shower rooms & WC Land: 3 acres, plus up to 30 acres available by separate negotiation Extras: English Heritage complex with two-bedroom cottage, garaging, tennis court, paddock, manicured gardens, apple orchards, Cranbrook School catchment area Best bits: The beautiful grounds are an outstanding element of Crowbourne Grange – not only can you admire stunning views towards Horsmonden Church and the surrounding countryside, you can also enjoy a game on the tennis court and there’s space to install a swimming pool if you wish.
FINE COUNTRY HOUSE OFFERS SPECIAL LIFESTYLE Perfect for entertaining, this period home is on the rural fringes of sought-after Goudhurst
FROM THE MOMENT you arrive at
access to the kitchen/breakfast room, which
Crowbourne Grange, you’ll be stunned by the
is spacious, beautifully presented by Bespoke
spectacular views and this unique
Kitchens of Goudhurst and has large folding
masterpiece of a house. Crowbourne Grange
doors to the garden. This in turn opens to the
was built during the Georgian era and was
contemporary dining and family room. Retrace
completely remodelled and extended at the
your steps to the hall and you’ll find a drawing
turn of this century, to create a magical family
room, further dining room, double aspect
home in a truly magnificent pastoral setting.
sitting room, laundry room and an office/
The current owners, Stephen and Vanessa
games room with lots of hidden storage
Gibson, have commissioned architect Stephen Langer to draw up designs to change the
space. Upstairs, all five bedrooms boast en suite
façade into a classical Georgian country
bath or shower rooms and two of the
house. These plans are available but at this
bedrooms have mezzanine levels. Beautiful
juncture, if the buyer so wished, the designs
views can be enjoyed from all the bedroom
could be tailored to fulfil their own dreams.
windows and there’s plenty of built-in storage,
On the ground floor, the entrance hall gives
plus there’s also a playroom on this floor.
For full details contact: Country Property • 01580 211 888 • www.countrypropertygroup.com APRIL 2015
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Property: Little Shaw, detached ‘Huf Haus’ Location: Willards Hill, Ludpit Lane, Robertsbridge, East Sussex Price: £1,695,000 Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 2 plus 2 shower rooms Land: About 2.9 acres Extras: Games room, balconies, underfloor heating with individual thermostatic controls, external shutters to ground floor, open bay garage, storage room, greenhouse, pergola, hot tub, three stables, tack room, mower store, field, electric gate, parking Best bits: Designed by City Escapes of Burwash, the stunning landscaped gardens are a real highlight of this property, featuring specimen trees, Indian slate paving and beach pebble. Water features include a rill, plus there’s a pergola adorned with white roses, wisteria and honeysuckle.
GRAND DESIGN FOR LIFE
Stylish contemporary living near Robertsbridge with a rare Huf Haus
DESIGNED BY ARCHITECT Peter Huf and one of only 200 in the country, Little Shaw is a
working from home. Down on the lower ground floor, there’s
striking contemporary house that provides
plenty of space to relax in the family room and
spacious, open plan accommodation of more
games room. Two of the five bedrooms are on
than 4,500 sq ft, arranged over three floors.
this floor, along with a shower room, utility
With double height ceilings and floor to ceiling
room, store room and plant room.
windows, the home is flooded with light and
A beech staircase takes you up to the first
feels at harmony with its stunning gardens.
floor, where all three bedrooms have access
On the ground floor there is a fantastic dining
to a balcony. The master bedroom benefits from
room which opens to the sitting room, where
a dressing room and luxurious bathroom with a
you’ll find a Boley wood burning stove. The
Philippe Starck bath; a second bathroom serves
downstairs shower room and boot room are
the remaining two bedrooms.
conveniently located near the kitchen, which
Equestrians will be pleased to learn there are
comes with Gaggenau and Ceran appliances.
stables, a tack room and a field on the property,
Here you can enjoy superb westerly views.
so they can keep their own horses in this
There’s also a study on this level, ideal for
peaceful rural idyll.
For full details contact: Savills • 01580 720 161 • www.savills.com APRIL 2015
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Property: Realm Park, detached country house Location: Bidborough, Tunbridge Wells, Kent Price: £2.25million Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 3 plus shower room & WC Land: About 9.85 acres Extras: Cinema/playroom, wine cellar, two-bedroom log cabin, all-weather tennis court, outdoor heated swimming pool, summerhouse, patio, hot tub, ménage, stable block, paddocks, pond, garaging for two cars, open barn for two cars, electric gates, sunken garden, terrace Best bits: Relaxing in the grounds at Realm Park is a real joy, thanks to the attractive sunken garden with its central fountain and pathways. A heated swimming pool, summerhouse and hot tub are located to the east of the house, with the adjacent tennis court. Other delightful features include a stone bridge leading to a pond to the north.
KING OF THE REALM Leisure facilities and wonderful views are among the charms of this generous house in Bidborough
BENEFITING FROM A private and elevated
room also offers delightful views.
position, Realm Park is an impressive family
A vaulted ceiling, slate flooring and double
home that offers far-reaching views and well-
doors to the terrace are among the highlights
arranged, versatile accommodation. In the
of the striking kitchen/breakfast room. The rest
beautiful grounds extra living space is available
of the ground floor accommodation comprises
in the log cabin, which has two bedrooms, a
a sitting room, study, shower room, utility
shower room, a kitchen/living room and
room, wine cellar and cloakroom.
separate access. Plus, the playroom/cinema
Views of the garden can be enjoyed from the
room on the ground floor of the main house
five bedrooms, four of which are on the first
could be used as a self-contained flat for staff
floor. The master bedroom has the use of an
or relatives.
en suite bathroom, while a family bathroom
A wood burning stove adds extra charm to the entrance hall and there’s another in the dining room. The drawing room is a fantastic
serves the other residents. The fifth bedroom, with en suite bathroom, is on the second floor. Equestrians will delight in the stables,
space for entertaining, boasting an open
paddocks and ménage, plus there’s plenty of
fireplace, exposed beams and doors to the
garaging and off-road parking for those who
terrace; like the other reception rooms, this
enjoy their cars.
For full details contact: Knight Frank • 01892 515 035 • www.knightfrank.co.uk APRIL 2015
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~ KNIGHTS WOOD ROYAL
TUNBRIDGE
WELLS
NEW PHASE THE LANES - NOW RELEASED
The Lanes, the next phase of contemporary homes at Knights Wood, is released for sale. This charming collection of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes are set amongst tree-lined avenues, enveloped in over 205 acres of established woodland.
CALL NOW TO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST
Each home features the high level of specification and attention to detail that is fast becoming synonymous with this landmark development.
Register your interest now to avoid disappointment!
knightswood.co.uk 01892 800 580
Prices from ÂŁ295,000. Legal fees paid on selected homes, ask for details.
by
dandara
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20/03/2015 15:26
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
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SECURITY
ELEGANT LIFESTYLE IN SPA TOWN
This magnificent Decimus Burton style home in Tunbridge Wells offers timeless style along with versatile family accommodation
SO
The long gravel driveway leads you past the attractive lawned front gardens, where you can
Property: Fernclyffe House, detached
relax on the veranda or terrace and enjoy the
Regency villa
view. At the rear of the house, a paved limestone
Location: Tunbridge Wells, Kent
terrace surrounds the outdoor swimming pool
Guide price: £3.6million
and there’s also a colourful rockery to admire. On the ground floor, the entrance and reception
Bedrooms: 8
halls give access to the impressive reception
Bathrooms: 4 plus shower room & WCs
rooms – these comprise a drawing room,
Land: About one acre
morning room, dining room, study and
Extras: One-bedroom integrated apartment,
conservatory. Steps lead down to the lower
wine cellar, playroom, burglar and fire alarm
ground floor where you’ll find the Mark Wilkinson
system, heated outdoor swimming pool,
kitchen/breakfast room, wine cellar, utility room,
triple car port, parking, terraces,
playroom and cloakroom. A private entrance
conservatory, veranda
opens to the integrated apartment, which WITH ROOMS ARRANGED over four floors,
features a bedroom, sitting room, kitchen/
Best bits: Designed in the style of Decimus
Fernclyffe House is an exceptional example of
breakfast room and bathroom, in addition to the
Burton by his protégé William Willicombe,
Regency living at its very best. Just a 10-minute
main house accommodation.
this house is a stunning example of Regency
walk from the town centre, the property is
The eight bedrooms are located on the first and
architecture. Period features include high
Grade II listed and dates from the 1850s,
second floors, with two bathrooms serving each
ceilings, deep skirtings, cornice work, original
retaining all the most elegant features of that
level; the master bedroom on the first floor has
window shutters, oak and parquet floors, and
period while functioning as an excellent family
the use of an en suite shower room and there’s a
the magnificent porticoed entrance.
home in the 21st century.
dressing room nearby.
For full details contact: Brooks Peacock • 01892 531 199 • www.brookspeacock.com APRIL 2015
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BEAUTIFUL HOMES
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
SECURITY
Property: Link detached house Location: Fountains Park, Westerham Road, Westerham, Kent Price: £1.1million Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2 plus WC Land: 0.3 acre Extras: Integral double garage, parking, communal grounds, underfloor heating, 10-year NHBC warranty dating from 2013 Best bits: This property is flanked on two rear sides by the attractive private landscaped garden, which in turn flows into the communal parkland grounds, where you’ll find ideal play areas and chances to admire the wonderful views.
ENJOY THE NATURAL BEAUTY
Contemporary family house in Westerham benefits from outstanding parkland views
JUST TWO YEARS OLD,this impressive
French doors to the garden. The kitchen/
contemporary home is located in an
diner is a real highlight of this property,
exclusive gated community within five
fitted with walnut Stoneham units, granite
acres of stunning communal grounds. As
work surfaces, an island and Siemens
Fountains Park is situated in an Area of
integral appliances; plus there’s a separate
Outstanding Natural Beauty, residents can
utility room and access to the garage. A
enjoy fantastic views and all the benefits of
dining room, study and cloakroom
living in such a charming area of the Weald.
complete the ground floor layout.
This house was built by Mapleton Homes
Pampering yourself will be a delight in
in 2013 and so any prospective buyer will
this house, which boasts two luxurious
have the peace of mind provided by the
bathrooms – one is en suite to the master
remainder of the NHBC 10-year warranty.
bedroom, which also has a dressing room
Inside, you’ll be impressed by the natural
attached, while the other has a Jacuzzi bath
light admitted by the large windows, while
and mood lighting to help you relax. Both
high ceilings give this home a fresh and airy
bathrooms have underfloor heating, as
feel.
does the whole of the ground floor. Of the
On the ground floor there is a good sized family room with a wood burner and
four bedrooms, three are doubles and one is a single.
For full details contact: Hamptons • 01732 280 801 • www.hamptons.co.uk 150
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There are more than 50 Shades of Moving
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20/03/2015 15:27
LANGTON GREEN
£1,500,000
Ancroft is a handsome detached fam ily house with sweeping gravel drive located in one of the fi nest private roads in the Tunbridge We lls area.
ROTHERFIELD
£985,000
Huntington is an attractive and beautifu lly posit ioned period house dating from the late 1920's in th is qu iet country lane close to the villages of Rotherfie ld and Mayfield.
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
£425,000
A beautifu lly presented apartment located in the handsome period house within an easy walk of the Grove Park, High Street, Claremont School and Tunbridge We lls Station.
48 Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 8AU Twitter: @alexandre_boyes Facebook:Aiexandre Boyes
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01892 525522
ASHURST
£2,250 PCI\1
A tastefully appo inted spacious ground floor apartment located close to Tunbridge Wells town centre, and with in walking distance of the station. The property benefits from its own garden and parking.
SOUTHBOROUGH
£2,250 PCI\1
A spacious four bedroom detached house sitting in 2/3rds of an acre in Vauxhall Lane between Southborough and Bidborough, a short drive from Tonbridge main li ne station.
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
£1,700 PCI\1
A beautifu lly presented garden apartment located in th is handsome period house with the benefit of off road parking, a private garden and ample storage.
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H
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TUNBRIDGEWELLS OFFICE: Tei:OI892 515670
TUNBRIDGE WELLS GUIDE PRICE £350,000 - £375,000 Two newly converted elegant Victorian Town Houses in the popular St James's quarter ofTunbridge Wells. EPC C
SOUTHBOROUGH OIRO £500,000 A four-bedroom semi detached Victorian house only a short walk of Southborough High Street EPC F
Tunbridge Wells 01892 515670
Tunbridge Wells 01892 515670
TUNBRIDGE WELLS ASKING PRICE £700,000 A four-bedroom semi detached Victorian house with 30ft South-West facing rear garden situated within a much sought after central town location. EPC E
GROOMBRIDGE GUIDE PRICE £450,000- £500,000 A detached Grade II listed 'Norman Shaw' cottage believed to date back to 1865, occupying a generous plot of approximately three-quarters of an acre, situated in an idyllic rural location. EPC G
Tunbridge Wells 01892 5 15670
Tunbridge Wells 01892 515670
I I offices in Kent, Surrey, Sussex & london
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SUPPLEMENT
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www.alexandre-boyes.co.uk 01892 525 522
ALEXANDRE BOYES SPRING LETTINGS FEATURE
Over the next eight pages, we guide you through an exclusive property supplement from local letting agents, Alexandre Boyes. With their knowledge and expertise of the Tunbridge Wells market, it’s no surprise that they’ve become a leading name in the town. Read on to find out why…
I
t is the start of spring and therefore the
past few years – a sign that the expat
first signs of what we refer to as the
relocation market is moving again, which,
‘summer lettings season’ at Alexandre
from my experience, is a sign of a booming
Boyes. The lettings ‘season’ is just that, and
lettings market. In addition, pension freedom
is different every year, responsive to the
reforms from April 2015 are well placed to
economy, housing market and politics. Over
see a bubble in the buy to let market in
the past 12 years, I have seen ‘peak’ rents
Tunbridge Wells, with further investment into
rise and fall by 25%, depending on these
property. In anticipation of this, we have
influences.
included key property purchase ideas for Tunbridge Wells for budgets of £250,000,
If you are thinking of renting your family home this summer, the timing and price that
£500,000, £750,000 and £1million plus as a
you choose is key to securing the best rent
guidance note of Tunbridge Wells buy to let. New Alexandre Boyes initiatives for 2015
to the most suitable tenant. Agents can make the mistake of marketing too early and
will see us focus on continuing to improve
for too much rent, which can result in the
our client service experience by offering an
property sitting empty for too long, letting for
in house maintenance team to respond to
too little or to the wrong type of tenant.
our clients’ property repairs. You will see our vans around Tunbridge Wells from April 1.
Over valuation is a recurrent problem. Not
Our lettings manager, Emma Child, has also
only does it result in assets that don’t pay, but it actually costs you as the landlord to
accepted our invitation to become a Partner
stand empty. I have always been an advocate
of Alexandre Boyes. Emma shares my desire
of marketing the property at its market rent,
to do something more than just turn up for a
so that it achieves its market rent to the
nine to five. Lettings is about people and
most suitable tenant from the largest
much of what we do is develop relationships
possible pool of suitable applicants.
with both our landlords and tenants, and make each individual landlord and tenant
Don’t underestimate the impact of the subtleties of internet marketing, and how
relationship a success as its own
marketing at just £100 more than its market
microbusiness. As a partnership, we have
value can affect the viability of the property
committed to opening new sales, lettings
to the most number of applicants. As a firm,
and estate management offices in
we made a decision five years ago to focus
Sevenoaks in 2016, returning to the town
our property marketing online and our
where Peter Boyes spent 25 years with Alan
experience in this area has resulted in us
de Maid and where Dan and I spent many
being ranked the number one letting agent
years counting half pennies for sweets (yes,
on Rightmove, Zoopla and Primelocation for
really!) in the newsagents at Station Parade.
the majority of 2014 in Tunbridge Wells.
Watch this space…
The May election has caused its normal uncertainty in the sales market with a mood of caution. Tenancy terminations are notably lower than the same month last year. New applicant registrations are up and the number of corporate tenants, in particular families relocating for schools and from overseas, are at a peak compared to activity for the last five years. The summer season has started early, with our family house pipeline in multiples of the
“NEW AENDRE BOYES INITIATIVES FOR 2015 WILL SEE US FOCUS ON CONTINUING TO IMPROVE OUR CLIENT SERVICE EXPERIENCE BY OFFERING AN IN HOUSE MAINTENANCE TEAM TO RESPOND TO OUR CLIENTS’ PROPERTY REPAIRS”
I hope you enjoy reading our lettings supplement in this edition of So Tunbridge Wells. Please do contact myself or Emma Child MARLA for any advice or questions on the lettings market in Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks, or the ‘golden triangle’ of villages in between.
KATE BOYES MRICS FARLA kate@alexandre-boyes.co.uk 01892 525 522 APRIL 2015
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LETTING AND MANAGEMENT
When renting your property it is important for you to feel assured that your property is in safe hands. Having been trading in Tunbridge Wells for 16 years, our team will provide you with their professional insight into the local rental market, local amenities and help you feel reassured about the decisions you make. Our aim is to provide services to our customers based on our company values, which are: our expert knowledge, the personal service we offer, our trusted reputation and the time we spend investing in our staff. We understand that good communication is essential throughout the process. We offer three levels of service to our clients, so you have a choice of which service best suits your requirements.
LET ONLY •
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A GUIDE TO OU R
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Advising on the likely achievable rent from the property, and preparing the property for renting, including advice on safety regulations and insurance. Marketing the property on all of the major property portals and on our own mobile friendly website. Meeting with prospective tenants, and once an offer has been negotiated we use an independent referencing service to provide references from previous landlords, employers and credit history. Once satisfactory references have been obtained we will produce and execute the tenancy documents. We can arrange for contractors to visit to ensure your legal requirements are met, in addition to services such as professional cleaning and inventory arrangements. Preparing a standing order mandate for the tenant to sign and forward to their bank on their behalf, or obtaining proof of an online instruction to the tenant’s bank. We will manage the collection of the month’s rent and deposit and ensure the deposit is protected in accordance with current guidelines. Once we are in receipt of cleared funds and signed contracts we will proceed with moving the tenant into their new home. Towards the end of the tenancy we will contact the tenant to discuss renewing the contract and negotiate a rent increase where possible. At the end of the tenancy we will arrange for the inventory clerk to check the tenants out of property and advise on the return of the deposit.
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SUPPLEMENT
SO
www.alexandre-boyes.co.uk 01892 525 522
RENT COLLECTION •
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•
This service will include all of the services offered on the Let Only agreement but will also include Alexandre Boyes collecting the monthly rent on your behalf. Rent will be transferred to the Landlord along with a statement outlining monies received and any necessary deductions made for fees or maintenance / repairs. We will chase any late payments on your behalf.
As a client of Alexandre Boyes you would also have the opportunity to speak with our in-house Chartered Accountant. Rachel has been with Alexandre Boyes for a number of years, working closely with the staff and their clients, providing taxation advice on all aspects of property ownership. Rachel is a unique asset providing specialist advice to our clients, which many agents are not able to offer in-house.
FULL MANAGEMENT •
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This service will include all of the services offered on the Let Only and Rent Collection agreements. Our full time property managers will be the point of contact for your tenants. They offer hands on, tangible, professional support with strong relationships with local contractors. We will carry out property inspections twice a year to ensure the property is being looked after. Any issues will be reported to you and addressed accordingly. Any necessary day to day repairs and/or maintenance and management matters will be dealt with on your behalf. All works will be confirmed with you prior to instruction unless they are an emergency. We offer a 24/7 emergency call out service to all tenants in our managed properties.
THE NEXT STEPS
Alexandre Boyes engages fresh, contemporary marketing with traditional values utilising Google, Twitter, the major internet portals, the Kent & Sussex Courier and SO Tunbridge Wells Magazine, with over one third of our applicant network from London. Issue 1 of AB Living, our new online magazine, was emailed to 15,000 subscribers in October 2013. It showcases our sales and lettings properties, in addition to contributions from our local network of property professionals in and around Tunbridge Wells, who add a depth of support to our clients on a day to day basis.
JEREMY TIMMS - TORPEDO JUICE LTD.
Hopefully the services outlined above give you an insight into what we can offer you as a landlord. If there is anything that you would like to discuss further then please do not hesitate to contact us to speak with a member of the team.
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BUYING TO LET
If you’re thinking of purchasing a property to rent out to tenants, Tunbridge Wells is a great location, attracting a wealth of potential interest from professional couples and London commuters. Here, Alexandre Boyes look at some of the town’s main benefits and best areas to let out your home
“What should I buy to let?” is a question that
number one reason why so many families
PROXIMITY TO A STATION – a huge
we are asked on a daily basis. Key features to
relocate to Tunbridge Wells. Purchasing a house
proportion of tenants in Tunbridge Wells
consider in the Tunbridge Wells buy to let
within one of the school catchments, or located
relocate from London, or commute to London.
market include:
within walking distance or on a bus route to one
Demand is highest for properties within walking
of the key schools, will protect the value and
distance of the mainline station and within a
demand of your investment.
school catchment.
SCHOOL CATCHMENTS – probably the
Budget: £1.5million
Key features: Walking distance of town
Location: Boyne Park, TN4
centre and mainline station; new build
Estimated rental value: £4,250 to £4,500 PCM
with high specification interior, including cinema room; off road parking in central location Typical tenant profile: Company let or insurance relocation Family relocating from overseas
Budget: £950,000
Key features: Village location with
Location: Fordcombe, TN3
good primary school; bus route to local
Estimated rental value: £2,400 PCM
grammar schools; large family garden of half an acre in the ‘golden triangle’ to the west of Tunbridge Wells Typical tenant profile: Family relocating for schools and ability to commute
Budget: £250,000 to £300,000
Key features: St James’ school
Location: Stratford Street, TN1
catchment area; houses are a USP
Estimated rental value: £1,100 PCM
in this price bracket due to lack of supply; garden Typical tenant profile: Professional couple Professional sharers
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SUPPLEMENT
SO
www.alexandre-boyes.co.uk 01892 525 522
PARKING – off road parking is ideal, but,
Tunbridge Wells than on properties in the
FEES – As a landlord, you should expect to pay
depending on the location, it can be hard to
surrounding villages.
between 7% and 10% for a let only service, 9% to 12.5% for rent collection or 10% to 15% for
come by. Demand in the town is higher for properties eligible for parking permits.
TIMING – The average yield achieved on a buy
full management, of the gross rent agreed for
to let in Tunbridge Wells is currently between
the tenancy period, all subject to VAT
FLATS/APARTMENTS – before committing,
5% and 7%. Depending on the time of year that
make sure that you check the length of lease,
a property is marketed, the monthly rent for mid
Additional fees will include:
whether it is share of freehold/leasehold, the
to high end properties can fluctuate by
• Energy Performance Certificate
annual service charge and balance of reserve
approximately 10%. The peak ‘summer’ market
• Gas Safety Certificate and any necessary works
funds. Service charges and ground rents will
when family homes achieve their highest
• Electrical Safety Test(s) and any
automatically have an impact on the yield
demand and rental value is May through to
achieved, so make sure this is accounted for
August, in preparation for the new school year
• Professional cleaning of the property
when budgeting your return.
in September. Top tip: don’t market your
• Professional carpet cleaning
property too early for the summer season,
• Chimney sweep certificates
TOWN OR COUNTRY? – Price per square foot
which is a mistake some agents make to the
• Rent and legal costs insurance
is higher on the lets that we achieve in central
detriment of their clients.
• Professional inventory and check in
necessary works
Budget: £525,000
Key features: Traditional Victorian
Location: Stephens Road, TN4
property; within catchment and
Estimated rental value: £2,250 PCM
walking distance of key primary and secondary schools Typical tenant profile: Family with children at local schools Relocating from London or overseas
Budget: £275,000
Key features: Popular Pantiles location, with
Location: The Pantiles, TN2
its boutique bars, restaurants and shops
Estimated rental value: £995 PCM
appealing to young professionals; walking distance of the mainline station; contemporary and fresh interior Typical tenant profile: Professional couple London commuters
Budget: £750,000-£800,000 Location: Arundel Road, TN1 Estimated rental value: £2,250 PCM
Key features: Walking distance of Claremont School – In 2014 we achieved £50,000 over the asking price on a property located within the catchment for Claremont Primary School; ‘Old Village’ location a short walk from the Pantiles and High Street; close to Grove Park with its playground and strong local family community Typical tenant profile: Family relocating from London or overseas; Claremont School catchment requirement; London commuter
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MEET THE TEAM
At Alexandre Boyes, you’ll be greeted by a group of knowledgeable, friendly and passionate professionals who can look after your every need. We say hello to some key members of the family and find out why their unparalleled expertise has made them one of Tunbridge Wells’ leading letting agents
SKILLS
Kate Boyes
• 12 years’ Tunbridge Wells lettings experience
BSc (Hons) MRICS FARLA
• Specialises in overseas
Partner landlords and letting of family homes kate@alexandre-boyes.co.uk
Emma Child MARLA
Lettings Manager emma@alexandre-boyes.co.uk
Kate oversees the residential lettings team
Emma has been working as a
for Alexandre Boyes, having established
Lettings Negotiator in Tunbridge
the department in 2003. She has lived in
Wells since 2007, joining
Tunbridge Wells for 34 years and is the
Alexandre Boyes in 2009 and
managing partner of the only residential
being promoted to Lettings
property company in Tunbridge Wells
Manager in 2011. Emma has
approved to train staff towards
also just accepted our invitation
membership of the RICS.
to become a Partner of Alexandre Boyes.
QUALIFICATIONS • Chartered Surveyor and Fellow of ARLA
QUALIFICATIONS
SKILLS
• Member of ARLA
• Member of RICS and regulated by the RICS
• Market appraisals
• Associate RICS membership training
• First class degree in Land Management
• Responsible for day to day running of the lettings department
• Sunday Times award winning for lettings
• Eight years’ experience in residential lettings
SKILLS • Negotiation skills are an asset to our lettings team • Market knowledge
Philippa Baston Renewals Administrator philippa@alexandre-boyes.co.uk Philippa has lived in the Tunbridge Wells area her
Laura BateS
whole life. She joined
Lettings Negotiator laura@alexandre-boyes.co.uk
as Property Administrator
Alexandre Boyes in 2014 and is now PA to Kate Boyes and oversees our
Laura joined Alexandre Boyes
tenancy renewals.
in 2013 as a Lettings Negotiator and assists with arranging viewings, tenancy negotiation and overseeing the overall process. QUALIFICATIONS • Training towards ARLA membership • Degree in Real Estate Management
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SKILLS • Strategic advice on renewal, considering dates, values and landlord and tenant preferences • Current market updates • Knowledge in deposit legislation
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www.alexandre-boyes.co.uk 01892 525 522
SKILLS
Charlene Glanfield Property Maintenance Co-ordinator charlene.glanfield@alexandre-boyes.co.uk Charlene joined Alexandre Boyes in 2014 to focus on liaising
• Ensures good relationships with landlords, tenants and contractors to ensure a reliable and reactive service • Carries out routine property visits for managed properties
between local contractors and landlords in our property management portfolio.
QUALIFICATIONS
SKILLS
QUALIFICATIONS
• Degree in Business Economics
• Audit, accountancy and taxation advice
• Training towards ARLA membership
• Training towards ARLA membership
• Landlord tax advice • Overseas landlord tax advice
Rachel North Property Manager rachel.north@alexandreboyes.co.uk
Rachel Wallis FCA
Rachel joined Alexandre Boyes in
Chartered Accountant rachel@alexandre-boyes.co.uk
January 2014 and is responsible for the management of approximately
Our ‘in house’ Chartered Accountant,
250 properties in the Alexandre
Rachel trained with Ernst and Young in
Boyes lettings portfolio.
London and has held her full practising certificate since 1988.
SKILLS • Experienced in handling safety compliance, deposit regulations and dispute mediation • 16 years’ lettings experience, career beginning with JD Wood in 1999
Mark Bryant Property Maintenance mark@alexandre-boyes.co.uk Mark has worked as a multi trade professional for 25 years. Alexandre Boyes recognise the importance of
Lisa Godin
being able to offer a quick, reactive and
Negotiator lisa@alexandre-boyes.co.uk
clients’ needs can be met, and
reliable service to ensure all of our therefore have introduced our in house property maintenance team.
Lisa spent the main part of her career in the marketing world before SKILLS • Expert knowledge of Tunbridge Wells • Experience of local schools valuable to clients relocating to the area
moving to London, where she was introduced to the world of property, working for a leading Chelsea based relocation agency.
SKILLS • Multi trade professional • Specialises in carpentry and joinery • Property refurbishment
Alexandre Boyes also offers teams in Residential Sales, Estate and Block Management and so please contact Kate, should you require assistance in any of these areas. APRIL 2015
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A PERSONAL TOUCH
Since joining Alexandre Boyes six years ago, Lettings Manager Emma Child has become an integral part of the team. Now, she has been made a Partner and is looking forward to the new experiences and challenges to come. Kate Boyes explains why she was perfect for the position and interviews her valued colleague
W
e are thrilled to announce the promotion
to focus more on location for their commute.
of Emma Child to Partner. Emma joined
Whatever your requirements may be, we at
Alexandre Boyes in 2009 as a
Alexandre Boyes can sit down with you and
negotiator in our lettings team. She was
work with you to identify your requirements
promoted to Lettings Manager in 2011.
and pinpoint the best location for you.
Emma has been a key contributor to the management and operations of our lettings
WHY WOULD YOU RECOMMEND
department over the last six years, proving
ALEXANDRE BOYES?
invaluable in keeping staff performance,
I feel very proud to become Partner at
administration and the operation on track.
Alexandre Boyes and look forward to continuing to maintain and grow the reputation that Peter
Her work ethic, attention to detail, understanding of the lettings market, clients
Boyes and John Alexandre built 16 years ago. I
and suppliers, as well as her understanding of
was recently offered an opportunity to work for
Alexandre Boyes’ values and their delivery, is
a large corporate agent in the area, however I
core to our lettings business and Dan and I are
feel that what we have built here at Alexandre
thrilled to give recognition to Emma’s value
Boyes is unrivalled and I am looking forward to overseeing some of the exciting changes that
though her promotion to Partner. need an inventory, as the property is
we have planned for the next few years. All the
WHAT DO YOU ENVISAGE FOR
unfurnished. I cannot express how important it
staff at Alexandre Boyes pride themselves on
ALEXANDRE BOYES LETTINGS
is to have a thorough, independent clerk
being able to give a personal touch and offer
OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS?
compile a schedule of condition for the
complete understanding of client requirements
We have some really exciting projects planned,
property, so that landlords are protected in the
and expectations. The lettings market in
the most current being the introduction of our
event of a claim against the deposit.
Tunbridge Wells is extremely competitive and, as a team, we benefit from many years’
own in house property maintenance team, providing a reactive response to repairs and
ANY ADVICE FOR LANDLORDS
experience letting and managing property in and
maintenance. We are due to open our second
LOOKING TO RENT THEIR
around Tunbridge Wells. Alexandre Boyes are
office this month, and a third office next year.
PROPERTY IN TUNBRIDGE WELLS?
proud members of the Royal Institution of
Our lettings team will all be members of ARLA
Choose an agent who is professionally qualified
Chartered Surveyors and Association of
and I am currently working towards my RICS
and regulated by a professional body –
Residential Letting Agents. Our award winning
membership, so our combined knowledge will
preferably ARLA or the RICS. The market is
team consists of myself, two experienced
be a great asset to Alexandre Boyes lettings.
increasingly competitive, which makes it a great
property managers, three negotiators and an in
time for landlords to let their property, but do
house Chartered Accountant, specialising in
DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE
not be tempted by the agent with the lowest
overseas tax advice.
RENTAL PROPERTY?
fee. The quality of marketing that your agent
That’s a really hard question! I am very lucky,
can offer must be better than their competitors.
IN WHAT WAYS HAS ALEXANDRE BOYES
as we have some fantastic properties in our
Alexandre Boyes launched a new website three
CHANGED IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS?
portfolio. We manage a beautiful barn
years ago so that we can offer mobile friendly
I have seen so many changes throughout the
conversion in Groombridge and I fell
advertising and showcase our clients’ properties
company as a whole. We have grown to the
completely in love with it as soon as I saw it.
to their full potential. We encourage professional
point where we have had to open a second
The barn was renovated throughout, but still
photography and we also have strong social
office in Tunbridge Wells, have launched an
retains many of the original features. The
media marketing strategies so as to maximise
in house maintenance team and now offer
galleried entrance hall is my favourite.
the exposure of your property.
block management as an additional service.
IS THERE A CLASSIC MISTAKE
HOW ABOUT FAMILIES LOOKING TO
and we were proudly appointed the letting
LANDLORDS MAKE WHEN TRYING
RENT IN TUNBRIDGE WELLS?
agent for Tunbridge Wells Borough Council in
TO RENT THEIR PROPERTY?
Everyone is different and has different
2013. We also launched our own in house
Probably the most common misconception
requirements. Some may need to focus on
magazine, ABliving, to showcase everything
landlords have is assuming that they don’t
school catchments, whereas others may need
Alexandre Boyes.
The lettings portfolio has grown considerably
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TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT Elegant Victorian house well placed for grammar schools + MLS about 1 mile + contemporary finish + 3 reception rooms + playroom/study + kitchen/d ining room + 6 double bedrooms + 3 bathrooms + front and rear gardens + off street parking + 4,256 sq ft + EPC=E
Savills Tunbridge Wells Amanda Wyatt acwyatt@savills.com
01892 507009
Guide ÂŁ1 .35 million Freehold
MAYFIELD, EAST SUSSEX Off the beaten track + rarely found rural position + development potential STP +southerly aspect with views+ Mayfield Village 2 miles+ Wadhurst MLS 4.7 miles +about 3.40 acres+ 2,522 sq ft inc garage+ EPC=E
Savills Tunbridge Wells Charlotte Melrose-Cantouris cmcantouris@savills.com
01892 507001 Guide ÂŁ895,000 Freehold
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SAND HURST,
KENT Beautifully presented attached home + 2 reception rooms + kitchen/ dining area + 4 bedrooms + 3 bath/shower rooms + gardens + about 4 acres + EPC=E
SISSINGHURST,
Guide £895,000 Freehold Savills Cranbrook jlloyd@savills.com 01580 720161
Offers in excess of £849,500 Freehold Savills Cranbrook ssimmonds@savills.com 01580 720161
ID EN GREEN'
KENT Lovely Grade II listed house + 3 reception rooms + 5 bedrooms + 3 bath/shower rooms + PP for replacement of conservatory with sun room + attractive garden + garage
CRANBROOK,
KENT Beautifully presented home + rural location + 5 bedrooms + 3 bath/shower rooms + secluded garden + garaging and outbuilding + 223 sq m (2,401 sq ft) + EPC=C
Guide £775,000 Freehold Savills Cranbrook ssimmonds@savills.com 01580 720161
Offers in excess of £795,000 Freehold Savills Cranbrook jlloyd@savills.com 01580 720161
HAWKENBURY,
KENT Grade II listed barn + planning for conversion + proposed: 4 bedrooms, open plan living area+ garden of about 0.6 of an acre + further land available by separate negotiation
GOUDHURST,
KENT Charming unlisted barn conversion + far reaching views + 2 reception rooms + 4 bedrooms + 3 bath/ shower rooms + garden + 205 sq m (2 ,208 sq ft) + EPC=D
Guide £650,000 Freehold Savills Cranbrook jlloyd@savills.com 01580 720161
Guide £825,000 Freehold Savills Cranbrook jlloyd@savills.com 01580 720161
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KENT Period property of 328 sq m (3,535 sq ft) + 3 reception rooms + 5/ 6 bedrooms + 4 bathrooms + gardens +garaging +recreation room + 0.77 of an acre+ EPC=E
23/03/2015 12:46
BEAUTIFULLY SITUATED LISTED COUNTRY HOUSE PEASMARSH, EAST SUSSEX Peasmarsh 3.4 miles; Rye 6 miles; Tenterden 12 miles; Ashford lnternational24 miles + set in glorious gardens with views + 4 reception rooms + 8 bedrooms + 3 bathrooms + cottage/annexe +tennis court + garaging + stables + about 4.5 acres + 556 sq m (5,985 sq ft) + Annexe EPC=F
Savills Cranbrook Patrick Baily pbaily@savills.com
01580 7201 61
Offers in excess of £1.795 million Freehold
RURALLY SITUATED GRADE II LISTED FARMHOUSE BIDDENDEN, KENT Tenterden 3.7 miles; Headcorn station 5.8 miles; Ashford lnternational12.2 miles +sought-after rural location + 4 reception rooms+ 5 bedrooms+ 2 bathrooms+ tennis court+ Cranbrook School Catchment 2015 +gardens and paddocks+ about 2 acres + 388 sq m (4,180 sq ft)
Savills Cranbrook James Lloyd jlloyd@savills.com
01580 7201 61
Guide £1 .25 million Freehold
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Looking for a bigger nest?
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
CROWBOROUGH
23 High Street, Tunbridge Wells KentTN11UT Sales 01892 511211 tunbridgewells@woodandpilcher.co.uk Letting & Management 01892 528888 lettings@woodandpilcher.com
The Cross, Crowborough East Sussex TN6 1AL Sales 01892 665666 crowborough@woodandpilcher.co.uk Letting & Management 01892 664666 lettings@woodandpilcher.com
SOUTHBOROUGH
HEATH FIELD
LONDON
124 London Road, Southborough Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 OPL Tel: 01892 511311 southborough@woodandpilcher.co.uk
27 High Street, Heathfield East Sussex TN21 8JR Tel: 01435 862211 heathfield@woodandpilcher.co.uk
121 Park Lane, Mayfair London W1K 7AG Tel: 020 70791568 admin@121 parklane.co.uk
Residential & Commercial Estate Agents
I Letting & Management I Land & New Homes IValuers
woodandpilcher.co.uk Untitled-1 2
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andrewsonline.co.uk ~ /andrewsonline ~ @andrewsonline
BELGRAVE ROAD, TNl
£1,500 PCM
WOLSELEY ROAD, TN4
£1,200 PCM
Set in a town centre landmark building, this first floor, purpose built apartment has three double bedrooms and gated underground parking. Located opposite Fenwicks and the Royal Victoria Place shopping centre, with the mainline station less than two thirds of a mile away, the property has undergone a program of upgrading and improvement by the current owners. The custom fitted kitchen with integrated appliances is of particular note, as are the bathroom and en-suite shower room. Energy Efficiency Rating: E
This three bedroom, semi-detached house is located on a no through road 0.2 miles from High Brooms train station. The downstairs accommodation comprises entrance hall, dining room with a tiled feature fireplace and built in cabinets, a living room with wood burning stove and kitchen with integrated appliances. On the first floor you will find the bathroom, master bedroom, second double bedroom and a single bedroom, which has previously been used as a study and which offers views over the town. Other benefits include double glazing throughout, gas central heating and a tiered rear garden. Energy Efficiency Rating: TBC
UPPER GROSVENOR ROAD, TN1
GOODS STATION ROAD, TN1
£950 PCM
LET ON THE 1ST VIEWING-SIMILAR REQUIRED A two double bedroom, ground floor apartment located 1.1 miles from Tunbridge Wells train station & town centre and 0.5 miles from High Brooms train station. The accommodation comprises lounge/diner with an opening to the kitchen with a full range of integrated appliances including: fridge/freezer, washing machine, oven, hob and stainless steel extractor hood. The master bedroom has an en-suite shower room and there is a family bathroom. Other benefits include: double glazed windows, allocated parking. Energy Efficiency Rating: D
£1,500 PCM
LET ON THE 1ST VIEWING -SIMILAR REQUIRED Located just half a mile from the mainline station, this newly built terraced town house has allocated parking to the front. The accommodation comprises entrance hall and downstairs WC, living room with doors to the courtyard garden and a fitted kitchen with integrated appliances. On the first floor there are a double bedroom and a further single bedroom, which would also work well as a study, as well as a family bathroom with a comer shower cubicle. On the second floor, there is a master bedroom with an en-suite shower room and a further double bedroom. Energy Efficiency Rating: C
Tunbridge Wells 01892 525551 tu nbridgewells.lets@a nd rewsonline.co. uk
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ANDREWS
TUNBRIDGE WELLS, TN2
£399,995
Four bedroom detached home with detached garage on a corner plot nestled at the end of a cul-de-sac. living room, separate dining room, kitchen and entrance hall with cloakroom. Upstairs there are 4 bedrooms (the master having an en-suite shower) and a family bathroom- NO CHAIN Energy Efficiency Rating: D
TUNBRIDGE WELLS, TN2
£335,000-£350,000
End town house set back from the road on the favoured south side of town. With double garage, hallway and cloakroom, through living room/dining room, kitchen, landing, 3 bedrooms and bathroom. Tiered garden to rear. Energy Efficiency Rating: D
GROOMBRIDGE, TN3 Individual detached bungalow offering potential, in private road on village outskirts. 3 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, bathroom, living room with inglenook and log burner, double garage, gardens and summerhouse. No chain. Energy Efficiency Rating: E
WATERING BURY, ME18 Detached family house set in a cul-de-sac location in the popular village of Wateringbury. The property comprises entrance hall, 3 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/dining room, downstairs cloakroom, upstairs bathroom, garage with driveway and gardens to front and rear. Energy Efficiency Rating: E
Tunbridge Wells 01892 515144 tunbridgewells@andrewsonline.co.uk
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jackson-stops. co. uk jackson-Stops &Staff
Boughton Monchelsea Guide Price £2,ooo,ooo Harrietsham fl ,ooo,ooo Excess A handsome early Victorian former Vicarage in a tranquil setting with An expansive triplex apartment within this prestigious Palladian style breathtaking views over the Weald and neighbouring deer park building with roof top terrace affording 360 degree views * 5 Reception Rooms * Kitchen/ Family Room * 7 Bedrooms * 3 Bath/ Shower Rooms * Double Garage with Store above * Swimming Pool * Tennis Court * Gardens and Grounds surrounded by deer park on two boundaries * EPC: F
Marden Thorn
Guide Price £815,000
A Grade II listed cottage where 16th century origins meet with stylish interior design and contemporary flair amid lovely gardens * CSCA * 2 Reception Rooms * Kitchen * 3 Bedrooms with En Suite Bath/ Shower Rooms * Detached Home Office * Garage with Work Shop * Greenhouse * Gardens of over half an acre flanking farmland *
£630,000 Excess
Hawkhurst
A beautifully presented period cottage amid enchanting gardens abutting open farmland located in walking distance of amenities * CSCA * 2 Reception Rooms * Kitchen * Master Bedroom with En Suite * 2 further Bedrooms * Family Bathroom * Double Garage * Delightful Gardens and Private Off Road Parking * EPC E
Cranbrook 01580
* 2 Reception Rooms * Kitchen/ Breakfast Room * 3 Bedrooms * 3 Bath/ Shower Rooms * Lift * Conservatory * Rooftop Terrace * Double Garage * About 9 acres of shared Gardens and Grounds * EPC: D
Guide Price £750,000 Marden A fine example of an attached converted oast providing well presented accommodation in a rural setting with lovely outlook over neighbouring fields * 2 Reception Rooms * Kitchen * Master Bedroom Suite with Mezzanine Room over * 3 further Bedrooms* Family Bathroom * Double Garage * Gardens and Grounds of about 0.6 acres
Grafty Green Guide Price £599,000 An extensively renovated and beautifully presented period residence in the heart of the village with convenient access to mainline stations * 3 Reception Rooms * Kitchen * Master Bedroom with En Suite * 3 further Bedrooms * Family Bathroom * Landscaped Gardens and Grounds and Period Outbuilding * EPC: D
720000
cranbrook@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices
Untitled-5 2
People Property Places 20/03/2015 15:43
SALES & LETTINGS
jackson -stops.co. uk Jackson-Stops &Staff
Chartwell Lodge Guide Price £345,000 A well presented 2 bedroom ground floor retirement apartment within easy reach of the town centre.
Grecian Road Guide Price £55o,ooo A pretty terraced house in the popular 'village area' of Tunbridge Wells within walking distance of the The Pantiles, train station and High Street
More properties like these required for a buoyant town market
Fast Find 60097
Claremont Road Offers in the region of £775,000 A charming period townhouse offering about 1,600 sq ft of family accommodation within one of the more desirable spots of Tunbridge Wells
Royal Chase Guide Price £1,50o,ooo An attractive family house with potential for updating and improvement in a popular residential area within walking distance of the town centre
Call us now for your free market appraisal People Property PlaceS Untitled-5 2
Tunbridge Wells 01892 521700 tunwells@jackson-stops.co.uk Local&: National reach through a network of London&: Regional office
Ci)nTheMarket.com 20/03/2015 15:44
A beautifully presented country house, situated within the gated Wrens Warren Estate Entrance hall, reception hall, drawing room, dining room, family room, study, kitchen I breakfast room, utility room, cloakrooms. Master bedroom suite with balcony, guest bedroom suite, 3 further bedrooms, 2 further bathrooms. Gym. Games room. Triple garage. Summer house. Immaculate gardens and grounds. Direct access to the Ashdown Forest. EPC rating C. In all about 2.1 acres.
Hartfield A family house beautifully situated within the Ashdown Forest Reception hall , drawing room, dining room , kitchen I breakfast room, library I cinema room , study, games room, garden room, boot room , wine store room . Master bedroom suite, 4 further bedroom suites, bedroom 6, laundry room, drying room. Garage. Attractive formal grounds. Swimming pool. Pond. Garden sheds. EPC rating E. In all about 1.1 acres.
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20/03/2015 15:46
High Hurstwood An enchanting period house within a highly sought-after village setting Entrance porch, drawing room, sitting room, dining room, study, garden room, kitchen I breakfast room, utility room. 5 bedrooms (2 with dressing rooms), 3 bath I shower rooms, family shower room. Separate 1 bedroom flat. Snooker room. Garaging. Greenhouse. Heated swimming pool. Pool house. Lovely gardens and grounds. EPC rating E. In all about 3.13 acres.
Forest Row A magnificent family house on the edge of Ashdown Forest Entrance porch, entrance hall, cloakroom, drawing room, sitting room, dining room, pantry, study, sauna shower room, impressive kitchen I breakfast room, large conservatory I garden room, utility room, secondary kitchen, boiler room. Master bedroom suite, 7 further bedrooms, 5 further bathrooms, shower room. Cinema room. EPC rating D. In all about 1.75 acres.
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20/03/2015 15:46
Linden Chase, Sevenoaks
Garth Road, Sevenoaks
A spacious and recently updated family house in a sought-after private road . 4 reception rooms, 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Double garage, driveway for several cars, delightful established level gardens. EPC rating E. In all about 0 .33 acre.
An excellent family house in an elevated and private position. 3 reception rooms, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Open bay garage, level private gardens and terrace. EPC rating C. In all about 0.34 acre.
Windmill Road, Sevenoaks
Oakhill Road, Sevenoaks
A charming family house with pretty Ragstone elevations on the edge of Sevenoaks Common with an annexe and outbuildings. 4 reception rooms, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Annexe, garage, stores. Superb gardens and grounds. EPC rating D. In all about 3 .9 acres.
Construction commencing April 2015 and completion due in Spring 2016. A stunning modern house in one of Sevenoaks' most sought after private roads with excellent accommodation being crafted to exacting standards by TJK builders and an opportunity to add your personal choices to the specification.
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20/03/2015 15:48
Beyond your expectations -.
www.hamptons.co.uk
THESVNDAYTI'MfS
Tm:.-.TIMES
French Street, Westerham Kent
:T-~AMPTONS
11
INTERNATIONAL
Guide Price ÂŁ2,950,000 Freehold
Set within a most sought after location a short drive from the historic market town ofWesterham and close to Chartwell, the home of Winston Churchill, a handsome, recently refurbished country house of quality with lovely views over gently rolling Kentish countryside. EPC: E
Sevenoaks Office
Sales. 01732 423 102 I sevenoaks@hamptons-int.com
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DC 23/03/2015 11:11
Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk 111ESUN~mn~ TilE . . .TIMES
Wadhurst, EastSussexÂŁ2,200,000 At the head of a long and sweeping private drive, set within approximately 30 acres of gardens and grounds and in a sought after location, a handsome Edwardian country house with elegant, spacious accommodation together with a pair of staff cottages, tennis court and swimming pool. EPC: E
Wadhurst, EastSussexÂŁ1 ,425,000 A superb detached house situated in an extremely convenient location along a prestigious and sought after lane just under a mile from the centre of this highly regarded village with farreaching southerly views and beautifully presented accommodation. EPC: D
Tunbridge Wells Office
Sales. 01892 597607 Untitled-3 2
I tunbridgewells@hamptons-int.com 23/03/2015 11:12
Tunbridge Wells, Kent ÂŁ1 ,475,000
A very distinctive and delightful house which dates from about 1860 and located in the highly regarded private Nevill Park, adjoining Tunbridge Wells Common and convenient for the town centre. EPC: F
Rye, EastSussexÂŁ2,250,000
In an elevated position with inspiring, panoramic views across open countryside to the sea beyond, a superbly renovated period house of quality with gracious reception rooms together with a detached Studio Annexe, set in lovely landscaped grounds in total in excess of 4 acres. EPC: D
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Connells
Sevenoaks
£1250pcm
Impressive two double bedroom spacious apartment, located perfectly for commuters within easy walking distance of Sevenoaks station with direct links to London. You will have the best of both worlds with all that Sevenoaks town centre has to offer with many bars/ restaurants and shopping facility's , also beautiful walks close by.
Culverden Park
£1150pcm
Spacious two bedroom executive apartment conveniently located for the town centre and main line station. This beautifully presented property offers open plan living room, fitted kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite, one further double bedroom and bathroom. Also benefiting from allocated parking. Available end of March
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Grantley Court
£1100pcm
The beautifully presented apartments offers a large living room with curved bay windows, modern fitted kitchen with space for small table and chairs, modern bathroom with shower over bath and two double bedrooms, one with built in wardrobes. Property also benefits from off road parking for one car, lift in the building and concierge service.
Groombridge
£895pcm
Connells are delighted to offer this stunning two bedroom, two bathroom apartment in the prestigious development in the centre of the sought after village of Groombridge. The accommodation comprises of open plan living room , superb fitted kitchen with integrated appliances, master bedroom with en-suite shower room , second double bedroom, family bathroom with shower over bath and allocated parking to the front of the property.
20/03/2015 15:51
Connells
Wad hurst
£410,000
Situated in a sought after village location this detached two double bedroom bungalow which is set in an elevated area is sure to appeal. Features include wooden flooring , a wood burning stove, modern kitchen and shower room. Outside there is a garage/ driveway and a west facing landscaped garden. Please contact 01892 547966 to arrange a viewing.
Bells Yew Green
Tunbridge Wells
Southborough
£425,000-£450,000
£325,000 Freehold
Modern 4 bed semi detached with 2 ensuites, parking and garage. Excellent condition, situated in the small hamlet of Bells Yew Green on the outskirts of Royal Tunbridge Wells. The property is very conveniently positioned for Frant station with trains to central London.
Favoured St John's/ Lakes area, a two bedroom semi detached bungalow with scope for improvement offering two bedrooms, lounge, kitchen and bathroom. Outside, mature rear garden, garage and driveway.
Situated in a popular road , this Period Semi detached house offers flexible living and versatility. Currently set up over three floors with a one bedroom, 2 reception apartment on the ground floor and a further 3 beds, 2 bathrooms of accommodation on 1st and 2nd floors. Garden and off road parking.
Please contact 01892 547966 to arrange a viewing.
Untitled-5 3
Please contact 01892 547966 to arrange a viewing.
£475,000
Please contact 01892 547966 to arrange a viewing.
20/03/2015 15:52
Heath Wood, Felbridge
Prices from ÂŁ1,250,000
An exclusive collection of eleven luxury homes set in Felbridge. Set back from a peaceful country lane this exclusive private development offers tranquillity, yet being within reach of key commuter links including Gatwick Airport. For further information or to arrange a viewing please contact EAST GRINSTEAD on 01342 32S911.
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20/03/2015 15:53
Barnes Kingsnorth
NORTH TONBRIDGE £560,000 FAVOURED CUL-DE-SAC. Near open countryside, yet within walk of local amenities. Detached family home with open aspect and lovely south facing garden. Living room, dining room, spacious kitchen / breakfast room, 4 double bedrooms, bathroom and cloakroom. Garage & parking. Scope to update and re-style. NO CHAIN EPC: E Apply Tonbridge
PEMBURY £540,000 LARGE FAMILY GARDEN. A substantial Edwardian semi-detached house offering scope for further improvement. Entrance porch and hallway, sitting room with archway through to dining room, modern kitchen/ breakfast room, conservatory, cloakroom, 5 double bedrooms, large bathroom and separate shower room. Gated driveway parking and integral garage. Internal viewing recommended. EPC: E Apply Pembury
NORTH TONBRIDGE OlEO £650,000 BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED & ATTRACTIVE semi-detached home. Generous accommodation with impressive sitting room, separate dining room, conservatory, kitchen / breakfast room, utility & shower room to ground floor. Upstairs there are 5 bedrooms & 3 bathrooms. Garage, parking & delightful south facing garden. EPC: C Apply Tonbridge
PEMBURY £465,000 SOUGHT AFTER LOCATION, 4 bedroom detached family home in Woocll1i.ll Park, with good size west facing garden. Beautifully presented and maintained. Kitchen / breakfast room, utility, sitting room, dining room, conservatory, cloakroom, modern bathroom and useful attic room. Driveway parking and garage. EPC: D Apply Pembury
NORTHTONBRIDGE £625,000 STUNNING GARDEN at this inunaculately presented 1930's detached home. Ideal for the growing family with 4 double bedrooms, bathroom, 2 spacious receptions, kitchen / breakfast room and cloakroom. Integral double garage & super large garden. Good location for countryside walks and popular primary school. EPC: F Apply Tonbridge
TUNBRIDGEWELLS OIR0£750,000 LARGE FAMILY GARDEN. A detached 5 bedroom house offering well-proportioned accommodation which would now benefit from some cosmetic updating. Set in a popular cul-de-sac on the edge of the town with driveway parking, double garage and a carport. 3 reception rooms, kitchen, breakfast room, utility, cloakroom, principal suite with en-suite bathroom and dressing room, family bathroom. EPC: E Apply Pembury
Pembury 01892 822880 e. pembury@bkea.co.uk
Tonbridge01732 771616 e. tonbridge@bkea.co.uk
Residential Sales & Lettings Untitled-1 2
Lettings 01732 771616 e. lettings@bkea.co.uk
www. bkestateagents.com 23/03/2015 12:49
c c:. HELEN BREEZE THE LETIINGS & MANAGEMENT SPECIALISTS
DUNTON GREEN ÂŁ1275 PCM
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, Seven oaks, Kent TN 13 1AJ T: 01732 740789 F: 01732 740742 W: www.helenbreeze.co.uk
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ADVERTORIAL
SO
“THERE ARE SO MANY GREAT HOMES TO CHOOSE FROM ON THE RENTAL MARKET AND CUTTING OUT THE STRESS OF THE WHOLE PURCHASE PROCESS IS MUCH MORE APPEALING, ESPECIALLY IN THE SHORT TERM”
• Garden maintenance is often included in the monthly rent, so you can get on with enjoying the fresh air as soon as you arrive – leave the weeding to someone else • Landlords have usually chosen rental properties based on their location to good schools, so you are likely to find top educational facilities right on your doorstep • It also pays to find a local letting agent to help with your search Like most local independent agents, we
TRY BEFORE YOU BUY
survive on our reputation alone and always tailor our service to suit individual needs.
Moving your family to a new area can be very daunting, especially if locating for a new job or a complete change of lifestyle, so it often pays to try before you buy. Here, Hilary Breeze, of Helen Breeze Property Management in Sevenoaks, tells us more
With a lower turnover of staff, local agents can also ensure you’ll receive good continuity of service. Also, agents are usually part of the local high street and will want to help build and grow their communities. Local letting agents will certainly have an extensive knowledge of their area. It’s vital if you are moving for schools
SEVENOAKS AND THE
home ownership. There are so many
or good transport links that agents
great homes to choose from on
understand what you need and have the
destinations for couples
the rental market and cutting
answers to your questions immediately.
moving out of London to
out the stress of the whole
It cuts down on unnecessary viewings
raise their children and for
purchase process is much
and ensures you receive a highly
parents working in the city
more appealing, especially in
bespoke service.
who want space in the great
the short term.
surrounding areas are popular
outdoors, while making their daily commute as easy as possible. Questions they ask
Lastly, make sure your local agent is ARLA approved. ARLA agents have client money
There are other added benefits as well, including:
protection, separate clients’ accounts and, most importantly, ARLA trained staff.
themselves always include: “How will I know where exactly to
• Monthly outgoings and costs are much
Helen Breeze Property Management
buy? Have we chosen the best location?
more controlled, with guaranteed fixed
12 London Road, Sevenoaks
What if we change our minds?”
overheads and maintenance on tap. No need
Kent TN13 1AJ
to spend out on costly repairs or find the
01732 740 789
money to replace the boiler in the first month!
www.hbpm.co.uk
These are the reasons many families now look to rent before they take the leap into
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MADDISONS RESIDENTIAL
Excellence is not a skill. It's an attitude . ..t:ltJj;l..
THE SUNDAYTIMFS
THE. .TIMES
Single Office South East "Estate Agency of the Year 2014"
Rolls-Royce Motor Car$
"Maddisons is a shining example of how the industry could be represented and wants to change public opinion on how estate agents offer value for money. The team invests hugely in the clients before the instruction stage and pays a huge amount of attention to the finite Mol y n e ux Place
details. With 95% of instructions for this new agency
Bre dbur y llous e
coming from personal referral it seems the service and personal touches are paying dividends. The business owner has a background in high wealth banking and is bringing this precision to detail and level of client
service to the property industry. She is very passionate with excellent attention to detail, and has a clarity of Cromwe ll Road
Culverdcn Park
vision for the future of the business that sets her apart from the competition. The team share her vision and ethos and take pride in playing their part in building 1'1addison's reputation. The panel's comment was that this innovative agency is a star of the future." Judging Panel's Comments Ma tficld
Ospringc Place
We have a proven track record in successfully selling properties in and around Tunbridge Wells and would simply love to help you make your next move. So please, call us today. You'll feel the difference immediately.
www.maddisonsresidential.co. uk
Royal Victoria House, 51-551he Pantiles, Royal Tunbridge Wells, KentTN2 5TE Telephone: 01892 514100 Email: info@maddisonsresidential.co.uk
Untitled-5 2
20/03/2015 15:55
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20/03/2015 15:56
FOOD
SO
FOOD NEWS
Our monthly look at what’s happening on the local culinary scene
EASTER TIPPLES Take a break from the chocolate and indulge in some wonderful wines instead with an Easter visit to Hush Heath Estate. The vineyard in Staplehurst is offering walks around the estate, where spring blossoms will be giving a delightful display, followed by a visit
FAMILY AFFAIR
to the winery and a fully tutored tasting of Hush Heath’s award winning wines, from Good Friday (April 3) to Easter Monday (April 6). You can round off the day with lunch at their new country pub, the Goudhurst Inn. From late April to early May, you can enjoy a free Vineyard Trail, giving you the chance to enjoy the carpet of bluebells while learning about the tasty produce. Tours are available between 11am and 5pm and must be pre-booked. To find out more call 01622 832 794 or visit www.hushheath.com
Visitors to Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest will have a tasty new option at the site’s revamped Café. Now able to seat 100 people – quadruple its previous capacity – the new Café is part of a two-year, £600,000 redevelopment and is due to open in time for the Easter holidays. The eatery will be a real family affair, with new catering tenants John and Sally Hall at the helm, along with their son, three daughters and son-in-law. On the menu will be homemade dishes, including delicious cakes and scones, plus
FRUITS OF LABOUR
the team will be providing catering across
Residents of Tunbridge Wells helped to plant a variety of fruit trees to create a new food
Bedgebury Café because it is such an
resource for the town.
incredible opportunity to create something
the whole site. “We’re very excited about taking on the
As the first phase of community planting, volunteers dug in and commemorated 25
special in a unique location,” John says.
Lottery funded fruit trees at Grosvenor and Hilbert Park’s Community Orchard. This
“We want to build a reputation for the
follows the planting of 15 semi-mature trees back in December. A variety of cherries,
Bedgebury Café to be a destination, where
apples, plums and pears were planted; a second phase of community planting is due to
the food and service are as good as the
take place next winter.The participants also had the chance to take part in the ancient
Pinetum’s views.”
tradition of wassailing, in which cider is poured over the tree to ‘bless’ it and ensure a good crop. “The Community Orchard is
Constructed in line with Bedgebury’s sustainable principles, the Café has underfloor heating provided by biomass
going to be a wonderful resource
sourced from Bedgebury’s sustainable
for the local community and for
forest timber.
schools,” says Community
www.forestry.gov.uk/bedgebury
Engagement Officer, Cally Fiddimore. “We look forward to lots of fun events such as Apple Day and pruning workshops.” If you’d like to get involved with the orchard or sponsor a tree, visit the Friends of Grosvenor and Hilbert Park’s website www.fogh.org.uk
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FOOD
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THE UNDERCOVER EATER
GREAT EXPECTATIONS Here’s where one of our resident foodies visits a local eatery and tells it like it is. Michelin starred Thackeray’s is commonly viewed as Tunbridge Wells’ most prestigious restaurant, but can it live up to the hype? INTRO
decadent mirror in the bathroom and indulge in
cheapest meal in Tunbridge Wells, but I would
No pressure Thackeray’s, but we’re visiting with
several birthday selfies.
almost go so far as to say that it’s the best. For fine dining there isn’t a comparison or a
great expectations. For one thing, I’ve wanted to sample what you have to offer ever since
MENU
competitor – it stands out a shiny Michelin
I moved to Tunbridge Wells nearly four years
Richard Phillips’ note at the start of the menu is
starred mile.
ago. Plus, it’s both my birthday and our date
helpful and endears him to me as a diner.
night. Add the fact that we’ve just been to the
Passion for local produce, sustainability and
STAFF
spectacularly splendid Alyn Williams at The
culinary excellence is apparent and is applauded
Helpful, friendly, knowledgeable, competent
Westbury in Mayfair, which matches Thackeray’s
by Yours Truly. While the tasting menu is
– so no bother there.
in terms of the Michelin star, last night and we’re
tempting, we’re still full from Friday, so we opt
wondering if this place can live up to the hype…
for starters, mains and obviously, cheese. Lovely
THE ONLY THING IS....
warm bread and chorizo butter trigger the taste
Tunbridge Wells is the calm antidote to London’s
LOCATION
buds into activity. The spiced Scottish
buzz. While London is thrilling and spending big
This is such a quaint building steeped in historic
langoustine with confit pork belly, onion bhaji,
bucks suits the mood there, Tunbridge Wells
significance; the oldest house in Royal Tunbridge
lime, mango, pine nut crunch, parsnip espuma
gives out the more mellow, chilled, ‘let’s settle
Wells. It faces the Common and is on a corner, so
(£15.95) is wonderfully presented, a culinary
down and get a dog’ vibe. With prices this high,
it really stands out and is walkable from station. It’s
artwork of balanced colour and delicately picked
perhaps it’s worth getting on the train and going
also opposite Dominoes, in case you hated
and placed herbs – a real joy.
to one of London’s glittering eateries to enjoy a
Thackeray’s on entry and opted for a takeaway instead – which would make you a bit weird.
This is followed by roasted loin of Chart Farm venison with sautéed fois gras, potato fondant,
fine dining experience. Then again, it’s handy being able to wander
butternut squash, honey glazed parsnip, dark
home down the hill in 10 minutes. The real
DECOR
chocolate and juniper jus (£27.95). Never a huge
verdict will depend on how swiftly Undercover
Wonky floors and low ceilings provide character
fan of chocolate with savoury, I find this dish
Eater makes a return visit – though I have to
charm, while private dining rooms add to the
pleasant but not breathtaking. The cheese plate
say that I’m already wracking my brains for
feel of nooks and crannies. The adorable and
(£15.95) is varied and satisfying. A bottle of
an excuse...
interesting wallpaper comes complete with
Chateau Brane-Cantenac, 2002 (£95) is a
monkeys. Quality white linen adorns the tables,
deviation from the norm, but we go with the
Thackeray’s
but avoids stuffiness with creative colourful
recommendation of our waiter and it’s fabulous.
85 London Road
adornments, such as a single rose head in a
Tunbridge Wells
glass cube, tealights and modern glassware and
PRICE
Kent, TN1 1EA
crockery. It’s all interesting but classic, the right
Dinner for two with a bottle of wine and
01892 511 921
balance of Kentish and neutral. I like the
pre-dinner aperitifs weighs in at £270. Not the
www.thackerays-restaurant.co.uk
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SO
FOOD
PRICES AT A GLANCE Starters: from £8 Mains: from £15.50 Desserts: from £8.50
STARS IN THEIR EYES Michelin starred restaurants might be rare in the Weald, but what marks the decorated few out from the crowd? Joe Murphy embarks on a journey into the culinary cosmos to find out – with a visit to The Curlew in Bodiam
F
or the astronomic gastronomic, the
enviable reputation.
think the castle has aged better than me in the
The precise definition of what a restaurant
time since. I’d allow about 40 minutes for a
must offer in order to gain a star is a closely
comfortable journey from Tunbridge Wells,
clear night. A 20-mile radius from my
guarded secret of Michelin. However, it has
which, let’s be honest, is still closer than
observatory in Tunbridge Wells only yields
become a highly coveted accolade, partly due
London or Brighton.
three heralded stars from the undisputed guide
to its perceived integrity – unlike many guides,
to the culinary universe. This may come as a
Michelin takes no advertising and no hidden
a coaching inn where travellers rested their
surprise to many, as we are genuinely blessed
fees. As a general guide, however, the entry
weary, moustachioed heads and warmed their
with a galaxy of local food heroes running
level one star is awarded for “very good
spirits while on the rain-sodden route from
some outstanding eateries in the area.
cooking in its category”. If, to those aspiring
Hastings to London. But now, Mark and Sara
However, it’s an exclusive club and competition
chefs and restaurateurs hoping to join in, this
Colley have given The Curlew another life. It is
for entry is fierce; the fight to stay a member
sounds somewhat accessible, it’s not. The
a place where formal food meets informal
can be even fiercer (The Curlew has been
most recent guide, published in 2014, featured
dining, where the city and country brush
starred since 2011).
only 17 new entries with one or more stars,
shoulders and style meets stile. On arrival a
nine of which were in London and none in
well-lit and nicely surfaced car park rewards
from the challengers? Why have the feared
the south east. The Curlew, therefore, is a rare
the traveller and during the short walk to the
restaurant inspectors garnished some and
bird indeed.
building, our great expectations build.
Michelin constellation over Kent and East Sussex can only be seen on a very
So, what sets these mythical places apart
ignored others? The answer lies in the detail,
I must admit, I do have to get the map out
In a previous life The Curlew restaurant was
Inside, the Curlew team have crafted a clean
the fine line between good, very good and
before I set off. Bodiam is perhaps best known
and quirky dining space. There is a charming
outstanding; and for The Curlew – our bright
for its wonderful moated castle and I do have
pre-dinner chill out area and beyond, an
star of the south – it’s about delivering on an
recollections of day trips in the 1980s, though I
understated dining room enjoys an open
190
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FOOD
SO
window into a busy kitchen. This all leads to a deliberately disarming experience; clean lines, unfussy furniture and walls studded with contemporary design cues. As well as being rather good looking, The Curlew also has a good sense of humour and good taste in music. You get the immediate impression that
“It is a place where formal food meets informal dining, where the city and country brush shoulders and style meets stile”
and organic wines. He has uncovered these
Next up for me is the hake with pork belly,
sucker for chocolate. Enter the walnut whip,
persuade my wife to sample. The cheese
parmesan gnocchi and fennel (£21.50). For me
Valrhona 64% Majari hot chocolate fondant,
soufflé – a dinner party nightmare – turns out
this is all about portion and proportion. The
walnut and mallow ice cream (£9). A sense of
to be a 1970s retro fantasy; locally sourced
flavour combinations and precision from
immense fun executed with immense
Sussex fromage injected with billowy warm air,
Michael Mealey on this plate is for me enough
seriousness, eaten with 100% concentration.
puffing like an adder with each fork puncture.
to merit The Curlew’s decorated status on its
Alongside it is a well of sweet and sour cherry,
own. Translucent and buttery hake perched
‘Sussex’s Best Eating Experience’. The eatery
and artisan bread is on hand to mop up the
over delicate braised fennel, golden nuggets of
continues to earn national accolades, having
cast iron skillet. A triumphant marriage of light
al dente parmesan gnocchi with a chewy shard
made it into the Guardian Travel’s 10 best
and shade, broody yet forgiving. Across from
of pork belly. Eye catching, palate pleasing – a
destination restaurants in Britain, and earns
me, the scallop sits resplendent among its
glorious expression of locally sourced and
local adulation by offering some of the most
finery, a solitary jewel in an open shell, gilded
seasonal ingredients.
considered and exciting modern British food
the whole concept is around the diner and not about egos in the kitchen; a kitchen led impressively by Head Chef Michael Mealey, while a beautifully warm front of house welcome comes from Restaurant Manager Beata Winiarskaa. I begin with the Sussex farmhouse double baked cheese soufflé with kirsch cream (£8.50). It’s a close call between that and the
and eaten slowly to prolong the pleasure. A
Vineyard, just a grape’s throw from the front door, to many small, yet dedicated and passionate regional producers around Europe and the New World. We share a Fattoria San Lorenzo Verdiccio, Marche, and Italy 2012 (£9.25 per glass, £37 per bottle) – an inspired choice from Beata. I do not have a sweet tooth, but I am a
scallop with roast chicken jelly, Granny Smith and hazelnut (£12.50), which I obviously
wines from as near as Sedlescombe Organic
The wine list is personally curated by owner
striptease of a starter, sent away naked with
Mark Colley and constantly evolves; it also
only the shell remaining.
proudly champions independent, biodynamic
In January The Curlew was again crowned as
found anywhere in the country. Committed to sourcing and using local produce, The Curlew celebrates its Sussex location. The kitchen produces food that is stylish and noteworthy. The compellingly concise menu responds to the changing seasons, offering diners of all ages an opportunity to sample The Curlew’s unique cooking. Visitors should keep a particular eye out for The Curlew’s set menu, which offers two courses for £20 and three for £25, available lunchtimes Tuesday to Friday and evenings Tuesday to Thursday. Stargazing, therefore, comes at an affordable price; the experience, though, is priceless. The Curlew Junction Road, Bodiam, East Sussex TN32 5UY 01580 861 394 www.thecurlewrestaurant.co.uk
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ADVERTORIAL
LIVING LA DOLCE VITA In the mood for some authentic Italian cuisine? Then head to La Dolce Vita in Lamberhurst, where traditional recipes and quality ingredients are given a modern twist, accompanied by an extensive selection of delicious wines. We hear about what they’ve got coming up on their menu
LUNCH OFFER TWO COURSE LUNCH, £15 TUESDAY TO SUNDAY
HALF PRICE HOUSE WINES
WEEKDAY LUNCHTIMES UNTIL APRIL 31 2015
La Dolce Vita is one of the pinnacles of
Plus, there’s the half price offer on bottled
FOOD (THE MAN BEHIND THE CURTAINS)
upmarket Italian food, with a traditional,
house wines, so people can come for an
All our dishes are freshly prepared and cooked
old fashioned style of service. This includes
excellent two course lunch.
to order using good quality ingredients, often locally sourced and from the current season’s
the trolley, with a good selection of desserts rolling through the restaurant after
LAYOUT (BAR LOUNGE,
produce. Look out for our sumptuous specials,
the main courses, such as the live cooking
RESTAURANT AND PATIO)
and for fish lovers, we have daily deliveries from
desserts like crepe Suzette and Zabaglione.
When writing about La Dolce Vita,
Hastings harbour and the London market of the
something that needs a special mention is
latest catches. It won’t be fair if we don’t say
LIVE COOKING AND FLAMBÉING
the layout and comforts you get from the
anything about the perfection of steak offered in
An outstanding factor that keeps La Dolce
time you step in, until the time you leave.
this restaurant with the spectacular sauces. La
Vita on top is the live cooking. One of the
You enter into the beautiful bar lounge,
Dolce Vita serves one of the best steaks to
bestselling dishes on the menu, the steak
which has the most comfy sofas, where you
perfection in the whole of Kent.
Diana, which the maître d’ flambés in front of
can have a drink to start your dining
you, is a real treat for everyone’s eyes, and
experience and choose your food to eat.
is back now with the art and passion of
the mouth-watering aroma spreads all around
When the starters are ready, the waiter will
cooking he gained in the last 24 years of his
the restaurant, which invites customers to
escort you to your table in the dining room
career from several five star hotels in London,
look at what he’s preparing.
with the drinks to enjoy the most delicious
Dubai and India – you won’t want to miss it.
food you pick from the menu.
He is now working on new dishes to include
LUNCH OFFER
The patio of La Dolce Vita has beautiful
The chef was away for three months, but he
on the menu to make it fit for people of
TWO COURSES, £15,
daffodils next to your table during spring,
different tastes and to be affordable to
TUESDAY TO SUNDAY
followed by different herbs in summer.
everyone. Let us wait and see.
La Dolce Vita is becoming the cheapest and
The flow of the river Teise next to the
best lunch spot in the area since the
patio makes gurgles, while the whistling
La Dolce Vita
introduction of the £15 set menu, offering a
sounds of sparrows, birds and squirrels all
School Hill, Lamberhurst,
selection of beautifully chosen starters and
around you makes for one of the most
Nr Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 8DQ
main courses that matches the spring with
spectacular dining experiences you could
01892 890 277
slight changes every week.
ever get in summer.
www.ladolcevita.uk.com
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FOOD
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GREAT TASTE OF KENT It’s the moment local food and drink producers wait for with bated breath – the Taste of Kent Awards. Here we find out which top tipples and delicious delicacies have put Kent on the culinary map this year had some challenging decisions Other Wealden companies can to make. From the record congratulate themselves on reaching the number of businesses top three in their category via votes from nominated, to the thousands of happy customers. The Milk House in people who took the time to vote Sissinghurst narrowly missed out to for the three finalists in each Molash’s George Inn in the Dining Pub of category, this year has again the year category, while highly praised demonstrated the public’s Great Preservations – based in Tonbridge enthusiasm for good quality – saw Hot Face Sauces from Maidstone Kentish produce.” take the Food Producer of the Year award. Chapel Down Winery in “The awards highlight the very finest Tenterden are no strangers to produce the county has to offer,” adds praise and this year they saw Stephanie Durling. “For the winners, the off competition from local rivals Taste of Kent Awards are the ultimate Biddenden Vineyards to win accolade in the Kentish food and drink Best Kentish Wine, with their sector, but it is not just about celebrating Bacchus. Biddenden Vineyards great tasting food once a year. If we all were also finalists in the Best sourced 10% of our weekly groceries from Kentish Cider or Perry category Kent producers, retailers and farmers’ with their Strong Kentish Cider, markets, we could help to generate over Josh Donaghay-Spire of Chapel Down Winery in Tenterden accept the award from Annabel Clarke of class sponsor, but Wise Owl Cider from £185million for our local economy.” Investaco Ashford took away the crown. Marden based Anno Distiller www.producedinkent.co.uk EVERYONE LIKES THEIR WORK to can put the Best Food Product trophy on be appreciated and for the ever-growing their mantelpiece, thanks to foodie scene in Kent, it’s great to know that their triumphant Kent Dry Gin, they’re hitting the flavour nail on the head. which also won the Specialist The Taste of Kent Awards, run by Produced Drinks class. The Kentish Blue in Kent, aims to give a pat on the back to Cheese produced by Kingcott those producers who are making a meal of Cheese in Staplehurst our natural resources and showing the impressed in the Catering culinary world what Kent can do. category, while the Double After months of public voting, three finalists Organic Cream from Silcocks in each category were put before an expert Farm in Tenterden was judged judging panel to decide who would earn the the cream of the crop in the prestigious winners’ accolades this year. At a Dairy section. stylish awards ceremony at the Kent County Fruit was not overlooked – Showground at Detling, the victors were Richard and Clive Edmed from announced and it was revealed that a Horsmonden won the Top Pear number of Wealden businesses have been award with their delicious named flavour of the month. Concorde variety, while Lower Stephanie Durling of Produced in Kent Ladysden Farm’s Glen Ample says: “The competition this year has been variety raspberries earned the Steward Tricker (left) from class sponsor Shepherd exceptionally close and all the judges, Marden company a gong in the Neame with Barnaby and Hannah Loades of Silcocks mystery shoppers and secret diners have Soft Fruit classes. Farm, Tenterden APRIL 2015
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THOUGHT FOR FOOD This month our own celebrity chef, Rosemary Shrager, reflects on remarkable rhubarb and lording it over her old boss
I
enjoy Easter – it’s like a new beginning. The
whites at the meal because he was
leaves are nearly all out or coming out and
so tired – but I was very proud of
the winter is properly behind us. I’m now
his endeavours.
looking forward to lots of sun! Recently I had a wonderful weekend bossing around my old boss, Lord Ivar Mountbatten. He had invited me down to his home in Devon to teach him to cook, so I’d told him to ask no more than eight people to
doesn’t look so good when it’s cooked, so people sometimes put strawberries
By the way, he produces some delicious venison
with them to give a better
charcuterie on his estate.
appearance. Here’s a delicious pie for
You can taste it for yourself by visiting www.touchofhart.com
Easter – enjoy!
This month I would like to talk a
Speak next month
dinner so that we could concentrate on the
little about rhubarb, one of my favourite
teaching – but 16 guests turned up! This was
fruits. Technically, it’s a vegetable – until
a nightmare because it was only me and him
the United States Customs Court ruled that
in the kitchen, but I chose some very simple
it’s a fruit in 1947.
dishes, as I wasn’t intending to cook! He
slightly better flavour, although it
www.rosemaryshrager.com
Rhubarb is a beautiful colour, very pleasing
worked hard all day and was exhausted by
on the eye and it tastes delicious; plus, it’s so
the end – he even wore my too-big chef’s
versatile. I think the outside rhubarb has a
First, make the filling. Cut the apples into 4mm slices, place in a saucepan with the apple or lemon juice and sugar and bring to a simmer over a low heat. Cook gently for five minutes; now add the rhubarb and cook for a further five to 10 minutes. Allow the juices to drain well back into the saucepan, bring up to the simmer to cook until it’s reduced to a thick syrupy consistency. Put the apple back into the pan with the butter, then set aside to cool. Put the flour into a bowl or food processor, add the butter and rub together or pulse until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add the sugar and water and mix or process into a dough. Cut the pastry in half, place it on a lightly
APPLE AND RHUBARB PIE YOU WILL NEED A LARGE PYREX OR TIN PIE PLATE SERVES 6-8
floured work surface and roll out to fit a buttered 20cm pie dish, leaving it slightly overhanging the sides. Roll out the other half, 250g plain flour, plus extra for dusting 140g cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces 1 tablespoon caster sugar 4 tablespoons cold water 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon milk, for glazing For the filling: 6 large Bramley apples, peeled and cored 500g chopped forced rhubarb 2 tablespoons apple juice or lemon juice 250g caster sugar, plus extra for dusting 50g unsalted butter
ready to put over the top. Fill the lined pie dish with cooled apple and forced rhubarb, then brush the beaten egg around the edge. Place the pastry lid over the top and press all around the dish to make sure it’s well sealed. Using a sharp knife, trim off the excess pastry. Brush the top with beaten egg and cut a small steam hole, about 5mm in diameter, in the middle of the pastry. Then bake in an oven preheated to 200C / Gas Mark6 for 30 to 35 minutes, until golden. Dust with caster sugar before serving.
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ADVERTORIAL
SO
A NEW WAY OF COOKING WITH CHOCOLATE Luxury cocoa grower and chocolatier, Hotel Chocolat, introduces an exciting selection of recipes to its Tunbridge Wells store A NEW WAY of Cooking with Chocolate (£20)
Split into nine chapters, the book includes
is the brand new cookbook from Hotel Chocolat,
energy-boosting breakfasts, innovative savoury
with recipes from their chocolatiers’ kitchen and
starters and mains, to-die-for desserts and an
award winning restaurants in London, Leeds and
array of cocktails. From a simple supper for two
Saint Lucia. With stunning food photography and
to a Saint Lucian style ‘Jump Up’ dinner party,
nibs, from cocoa powder to chocolate bar. There
more than 100 individual recipes, the cookbook
the cookbook will equip readers with the
are also step-by-step instructions on how to roast
reveals a glimpse into the inner workings of this
know-how and confidence to introduce cocoa
your own cocoa beans at home and make
dynamic British brand, along with inventive new
cuisine into their kitchen.
chocolate entirely from scratch.
dishes and much-loved classics.
People have adored cocoa for more than 3,000
Uniquely, each recipe has a ‘Cocoa Factor’ to
years, but it was only in the last 500 that we
indicate the depth of flavour, as well as the
started getting sweet on it. Long before anyone
cocoa percentage and region that will best suit
added a grain of sugar, cacao beans were loved
the dish. Colourful anecdotes and stories are
for their deep, savoury
weaved throughout the book, taking the reader
richness. They were
on a vibrant chocolate journey from pod to plate.
roasted, shelled and eaten like nuts, and crushed for
Hotel Chocolat Tunbridge Wells
use as an infusion, garnish
257 Royal Victoria Place,
and subtle spice.
Tunbridge Wells,
Readers will discover
Kent TN1 2SS
how to use the whole
01892 541 000
bean, from the shell to the
www.hotelchocolat.com
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EASTER AT WOODS FUN FILLED ACTIVITIES THROUGHOUT THE HOLIDAYS! KID'S ARTS & CRAFT SESSIONS* Mosaics, Knitting & Chocolate Making EASTER COLOURING COMPETITION* Win free SWIMMING LESSONS or A CHOCOLATE PARTY WITH YOUR FRIENDS! KIDS EAT FREE* Two kids eat FREE with one adult main meal EASTER SUNDAY ROAST For all the Family *See our website for full details and T&Cs
(l2 I'll! PJ\ N IIIIS I l'LJNH IUl)()f WillS I 01892(ll4411 INIO(•<\\OOil\RI\Ii\liiZi\NI(OlJK
I
\\\\\\\\()()1)\IU\Ii\liiZi\NI(OlJK
PIZZA IS FIREZZA •
FIREZZA PIZZA FOR LIFE
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First-rate lSI Inspection Report in 2013 • Nursery and Pre Prep rated "outstanding" Top academic results from a broad ability intake • Extensive Sports facilities Boarding from I I • Wide range of scholarships available at I I I 13/ 16 Cathedral Chorister scholarships available for boys aged 8 T: 0 1634 888590 Untitled-5 2
E: admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk www.kings-rochester.co.uk 20/03/2015 16:27
A First Class Education at Claremont School
Claremont Independent School is set in 100 acres of grounds across two sites, St Leonards on Sea and Bodiam, and offers excellent and extensive facilities, enabling children to participate and flourish in all aspects of school life. The school offers a Nursery, Preparatory, Senior and Sixth Form, with a new 50 place boarding facility in Battle opening in September 2015, accommodating both English and international students. Pupils receive a first class education at the Preparatory School up to the age of 13 years and then make a smooth transition to our Senior School in Bodiam at the start of Year 9. Equally, the Prep School will prepare a pupil for their Senior School of choice. Claremont Senior School boasts impressive facilities including a state of the art Sixth Form Centre, formally
opened in September 2014, a £1.5m Sports Hall, which houses an indoor fully equipped cricket training facility, a fitness gym, four badminton courts, a S-a-side football pitch, an indoor tennis court, netball and basketball courts. There is also a Performing Arts Centre, including a 250 seat theatre, a Photography Centre and an additional new science laboratory. There is also one of the finest 6 lane indoor swimming pools in the area. An extensive transport service operates at both sites, with multiple collection points across East Sussex and Kent. In the latest GCSE league table, Claremont Senior School in Bodiam is ranked first amongst all local secondary schools in the Rother District area and third overall in East Sussex. 79% of all students achieved five, or more, A*'s to C grade, including English and
www.claremontschool.co. uk NURSERY I PREPARATORY
SENIOR I SIXTH FORM
Baldslow, St. Leonards-on-Sea East Sussex TN37 7PW
Bodiam, Robertsbridge East Sussex TN32 SUJ
01424 751555
01580 830396
enquiries @ claremontschool.co.uk
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• • • • • • • • •
Claremont INDEPENDENT SCHOOL
Maths. Headmaster, Giles Perrin said "We are absolutely delighted to achieve such fantastic results at our first time of asking. It 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." We welcome tours and taster days for children of all ages. Please do not hesitate to contact either school to arrange a suitable time for you to visit. To arrange an appointment to view the Prep School and Nursery, please telephone 01424 751555 and for the Senior School and Sixth Form, please telephone 01580 830396. Alternatively, please visit www.claremontschool.co.uk for more information.
Independent school for children aged 1 to 18 Over 100 acres of grounds Full academic and co-curricular programme Study centre in France Term-time or 50 week nursery schedules Enlarged two acre Forest School NEW Sports Centre & Performing Arts Centre NEW Sixth Form centre now open NEW Boarding facility opening September 2015
20/03/2015 16:28
E D U C AT I O N
SO
EDUCATION NEWS WE TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE WORLD OF EDUCATION
n THAT’S MAGIC Children from Rose Hill School in Tunbridge Wells enjoyed a kind of magic with the 18th Sir Humphry Davy Lecture. Running since 1998, the event has played host to a diverse range of scientists, lecturers and educationalists, all presenting topics related to science. However, the school had never invited a magician to speak until Tony Charles took the floor. During the day Tony used science to create awe-inspiring ‘magic’ for the Pre-Prep children, before explaining how
n Bandana Brigade
he had achieved his incredible feats. Then,
Students and staff at Bethany School were determined to ‘wear it out’ last month in support of a
in the evening, children from Years 6 to 8
charity that is close to their hearts.
joined students from eight other primary
Harry Graham, who is a Year 13 student at the school in Goudhurst, survived a brain tumour as a
and prep schools in the theatre, where he
child and is now a Young Ambassador for The Brain Tumour Charity. On March 6 thousands of
amazed the young audience with his
people donned bandanas in support of the Brain Tumour Awareness Day and Bethany School took
‘conjuring’. Topics covered included
part in the event, raising both awareness of the condition and £1,000 for the charity.
Mobius bands and using inertia to discover
Harry was thrilled with their efforts, saying: “Once again, a huge thank you to Bethany for all the support I have received during my time here as a pupil at the school and also a heartfelt ‘thank you’
if an egg is raw or hard boiled. “It was a great evening,” says Laura, of Year 8. “My favourite part was when
from The Brain Tumour Charity.” His parents added their thanks to the Headmaster, staff and pupils for hosting the fundraising day.
Tony made a rocket in slow motion to the
“It is events like this that provide not only invaluable funding in the fight against brain tumours, but
music from 2001: A Space Odyssey.”
also raise awareness, which is key to early diagnosis and subsequent survival of this awful illness,”
www.rosehillschool.co.uk
Mr and Mrs Graham say. www.bethanyschool.org.uk
n DOUBLE HEADED Two Crowborough primary schools welcomed a new Executive Headteacher as they prepare for a possible merger. Currently run as a federation, Whitehill
FREE EDUCATION
expected to open next year. The location has
Infant School and Herne Junior School are
Prime Minister David Cameron announced that
yet to be confirmed, but the school will be
now being led by Kate Owbridge, who
there will be 49 new free schools across the UK
based in a new building created with the help
previously worked at a school in
and one will be in Tonbridge.
of Government funding.
Rotherhithe, London. Following a public
The new 420-place primary school will be
It will be one of only two new schools
consultation, a decision has yet to be made
managed by the Bishop Chavasse Trust, which
announced for Kent, the other being a
about whether the two establishments will
already runs the Bennett Memorial Diocesan
science and technology focused secondary
amalgamate to become one school.
secondary school in Tunbridge Wells, and is
school in Maidstone.
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Skippers Hill Manor Preparatory School, Five Ashes, Mayfield, East Sussex, TN20 6HR
www.skippershill.com
Fat Fox is a new publisher bringing magic to children everywhere! We are proud to unleash our latest list from the den - more sensational stories that will have kids across the globe sniffing around for more. Also from the publisher who brought you Happy Hooves, Ta Dah! and Oh! Oh! Oh! (books read by the future King of England) coming early 2015 ...
Lili By Wen Dee Tan 2-6 years Lili is an o rd ina ry little g irl. Well exce pt fo r fi ery red hair. O ne day, Lili find s the village c hildren lost in the deep dark woods and her bravery (a nd hair) lead s th em all home safe ly. Lili won third place in the Ma cmillan prize 2013.
ISBN 978-0992872847 £10.99
202
ISBN PB 978-0992872809 £7.99 HB 978-0992872816 £10.99
Prankenstein vs Yankenstein By Andy Seed Illustrated by Richard Morgan 8-11 years
ISBN 978-0992872823 £10.99
Little Bell And The Moon By Giles Paley- Phillips Illustrated by Iris Deppe 2-6 years
Soa py Tho mpson's prank playing mo nster is back. But there is another beast out there and w ar is unleashed. Can Soa py's best friend s, the Tw ince save him?
Every night the Moon takes Little Bell's hand and together they fly off o n adve ntures. Little Bell grows o ld and frail but o ne last flight w ith th e Moon makes som ething very special happen.
ISBN 978-09928728S4 £6.99
ISBN 978-0992872861 £10.99
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ADVERTORIAL
SACKVILLE SCHOOL, HILDENBOROUGH INFLUENCING LIVES, INSPIRING FUTURES
TYPE: Independent co-educational school
When Sackville was established 27 years ago it
for ages 11 to 18 years
was in response to a demand for a school which
FOUNDED: 1987
could provide a bespoke secondary education for
COST PER TERM (DAY): £4,540
children in the West Kent area. In the ensuing
TEL: 01732 838 888
years Sackville has seen students travel from ever
WEB: www.sackvilleschool.co.uk
greater distances to benefit from the individualised
EMAIL: office@sackvilleschool.com
teaching which is core to the school’s ethos.
HEAD: John Hewitt
Sackville’s distinctive family atmosphere sets the school apart and this is evident from the strong bonds forged there. Former students regularly return to share their experiences and recent visitors have included a Business undergraduate on a placement year with IBM who gave a
from Investment Banker to Teacher, from
presentation to Sixth formers, a postgraduate
Engineer to Chef and Professional Musician to
student at Warwick University researching for her
successful Novelist!
Master’s dissertation and a student on a flying visit from at the University of Minnesota. An Alumni lunch was held this month which saw
John Hewitt with a former student
204
Headmaster, John Hewitt, said “This was my first alumni event and it was a pleasure to meet so many former students and share in their
students from over the years reuniting and
enjoyment at returning to Sackville. It
reminiscing on their time at the school. Former
confirmed that this is a special place which
students have gone on to a wide range of careers
remains in the heart of all who come here.”
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MOTORING MATTERS
OUR ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM THE MOTORING SCENE VANTAGE POINT Aston Martin has revealed the first details of its most potent and uncompromising Vantage to date: the track-inspired Vantage GT3 special edition. With production strictly limited to just 100, the new model combines all of Aston Martin’s learning from its years of sports car competition around the globe to produce its most performance focused road-going Vantage. Equipped with a new iteration of the brand’s 6.0-litre V12 engine – capable of generating up to 600 PSI – the car weighs in at 100kg less than a standard V12 Vantage S. Comprehensively re-engineered, as well as significantly restyled, the GT3-inspired special edition is lower and wider than any of its siblings in the Vantage family.
FLYING START
JAGUAR LAND ROVER
TEAM WORK
A1 STANDARD
Bentley Motors is building on
Jaguar Land Rover has
Porsche has awarded GKN
Weighing up the pros and cons
the global demand for the
announced its line-up of
Driveline ‘Technology Partner’
of petrol and diesel power is
Continental GT family with a
vehicles set to feature in
status for its development of a
now a little harder for Audi A1
suite of contemporary design
Spectre, the 24th James Bond
high-performance eAxle for the 918
customers, as a new super-
updates and new exquisite
adventure. These will include
Spyder, an advanced plug-in hybrid
frugal, 97g/km TFSI version of
features for its most successful
the Jaguar C-X75, Range Rover
supercar. GKN Driveline’s eAxle
the three or five-door
model. Bentley’s luxurious and
Sport SVR and Defender Big
module supports full-electric mode,
subcompact becomes available
powerful Flying Spur also
Foot, which have been provided
all-wheel drive and provides a
in the UK. Equipped with a
receives a set of features for
by Jaguar Land Rover Special
boost function, to supplement the
characterful new three-cylinder
2015, focusing on powertrain
Operations. The Jaguar C-X75
918 Spyder’s hybridized 4.6-litre V8.
engine – the first petrol unit with
development, on-board
will feature in a spectacular
The module has maximum power of
this configuration ever to be
technology and interior comfort.
car chase sequence through
95kW and up to 1500Nm of torque.
installed in an Audi model – the
The stunning new models were
Rome, alongside the Aston
A specially developed compact
latest A1 variant promises to
unveiled and displayed to
Martin DB10.
differential engages the torque
bring 67mpg-plus economy,
impressed crowds at the
The C-X75 vehicles used in
seamlessly, giving the 918 Spyder
peppy performance and the
Geneva Motor Show last month,
filming have been built in
optimum power distribution. At
premium hallmarks that
with deliveries starting this
collaboration with Williams
speeds above 164mph, a clutch
distinguish every Audi, within
summer for those lucky enough
Advanced Engineering facility
isolates the electric motor to
even easier reach with an OTR
to purchase one.
in Oxfordshire.
prevent it over-spinning.
price starting from £14,315.
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'' THE "ELECTRIFYING" MAN OF KENT TELLS YOU WHY THE NISSAN LEAF AND THE E-NV200 COMMERCIAL ARE GAME CHANGING VEHICLES
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It is the best selling all electric car in the world, 150,000 sold to date and 95% of those owners who have driven over 1billion km recommend leaf!
23/03/2015 11:18
LIFESTYLE TEST DRIVE We offer test drive opportunities for up to 7 days for either business or private individuals, to gather customer feedback and create awareness of our electrifying range. Please call Jonny for more information on 01892 500700.
Motorline
HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED THE ELECTRIC SIDE OF DRIVING? Go from 0-80% in 30 mins Trips to the petrol station will be a thing of the past. Find Nissans Rapid chargers at most UK motorway stations, all free of charge. Car loan for a longer trip we'll lend you a petrol or diesel Nissan for 14 days a year free of charge . All you need to do is cover fuel and insurance. Sync leaf with your smartphone "I can warm my Leaf from bed using my smartphone on a cold winters morning. While my wife scrapes her windows clearof frost-nothing beats it." -Alex Yates Room for the whole family "Its a full five seater with plenty of space, the new leaf even has a bigger boot too. Peaople are surpised by how roomy it is." Zero road tex zero congestion charge "I chose to buy a leaf because i was fed up with thee ever incrteasing charges for road tax and fuel. The only regret I have is not buying one sooner!"Richard Davies
Make the switch today with an extended test drive.
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FACTS AT A GLANCE MERCEDES-MAYBACH S600, £167,000 Engine: 6.0-litre V12 petrol unit producing 523bhp and 612lb/ft Transmission: Seven-speed automatic driving all the rear wheels Performance: Top speed 155mph, 0-62mph in 5 seconds Economy: 24.1mpg combinedE Emissions: 274g/km of CO2
MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU THE MAYBACH NAME IS BACK WITH THE MERCEDES-MAYBACH S600 – AND THIS TIME IT MEANS BUSINESS, AS MATT KIMBERLEY DISCOVERS
T
he old standalone Maybach was
long-wheelbase S-Class. So no, it’s not short
taken up by the fridge unit, but being able to
flawed from the very beginning, built
of legroom. The roof line is higher and stays
keep your Champagne chilled is clearly far
as it was on a platform old enough to
that way for longer, the rear doors are a
more important. To drink it there are two
have been shared with the Ark. But
different length and there are small
what you see here isn’t a Maybach: it’s a Mercedes-Maybach. It’s the new flagship Mercedes S-Class,
The Force is strong with the finest S-Class and always has been. Apparently customers
silver-plated Champagne flutes in a fold-down tray between the two rear seats – but only if you specify the £7,200 First Class rear seat setup. There’s enough legroom to allow your St
built under a double-barrelled name that
wanted more exclusivity and even more of
could, if consumer demand is there, mirror
the stuff that makes the S-Class such a
Bernards to curl up at your feet and they’ll
the Mercedes-AMG badge with multiple
stalwart at the top of its class, so Mercedes
be comforted by the standard luxury lamb’s
models atop various ranges. AMG cars are
has combined the famous badge with
wool floor mats that replicate an expensive
built for high end luxury and giggles, but the
another one to form the new standard
living room feel. You’re actually meant to
Mercedes-Maybach is all about comfort and
bearer. Where the old Maybach had image
take your shoes off to appreciate it (and it’s
exceptional indulgence.
problems, its spiritual successor has big-
totally worth it).
It’s a long old thing, adding another 20cm between the wheels compared to the
208
‘double-M’ badges on the C-pillars.
time pedigree – albeit in a less showy way. Nit-pickers will note that part of the boot is
To be frank, few owners will actually drive it themselves, but if they did they’d be
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This car summed up in a single word:
IMPRESSIVE astonished at how relentlessly fast it is,
seat moves forwards, the leg rest rises
statement-making looks of a Rolls-Royce,
thanks to a 530-horsepower V12 engine.
and you eventually find yourself as comfy
but not everyone wants those.
Refinement and comfort in any seat is
as if you were in your own reclining
amazing, with the softest leathers and
armchair at home; probably comfier,
exclusive chauffeurs and more will all
seats that, in the rear, can give you six
even. All the toys you’d expect on the
want to get their hands on a Mercedes-
different types of back or shoulder
King Among S-Classes are standard. Go
Maybach, although only 100 or so will
massage. Six! And don’t forget seven
forth and meddle.
sell in the UK every year. Any S-Class is a
colours of ambient lighting, of course.
When you look at what you get, £167,000
Media moguls, Mafia kingpins, ultra-
brilliant luxury car, but the new maestro
is a steal. Bear with me on this. The big
is a bit special. Below-the-radar on the
of backrest tilt are also rather nice, but it’s
double-M is built as well as a Bentley but
outside but above all but the loftiest of
the leg rest that steals the show. Hold a
has more technology and is arguably even
expectations, this is the sober thinker’s
button down and the front passenger
better to drive. The only thing it lacks is the
Rolls-Royce Ghost.
Heating, cooling and up to 43.5 degrees
If this car was a vineyard... It would be one of the Champagne region’s finest: magnificent to behold and full of rich bounties
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23/03/2015 12:04
Cooper Tunbridge Wells
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The Ultimate Driving Machine
20/03/2015 16:50
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. It 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 Connected Drive 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 TUNBRIDGE WELLS TODAY. Cooper Tunbridge Wells Longfield Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3UE 01892 629 503 www.coopertunbridgewellsbmw.co.uk
BMW EfficientDynamics Less emissions. More driving pleasure.
Official Fuel Economy Figures for the BMW Range: Extra Urban 26.2-83.1 mpg (1 0.8-3.41/1 OOkm). Urban 14.664.2mpg (19.3-4.41/1 OOkm). Combined 20.3-7 4.3mpg (13.9-3.81/1 OOkm). C0 2 emissions 325-99g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions. *Test drive subject to applicant status and availability. BMW EfficientDynamics reduces BMW emissions without compromising performance developments and is standard across the model range.
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Berwick Devoil Healthcare, based at LamberhurstVineyard has launched a new and dedicated International Health Insurance arm and brand BD Global Medical, www.bdglobalmedical.com A newly focused employee benefits team has been created to further develop Berwick Devoil Healthcare's strong reputation in the International markets. BD Global Medical is an Insurance Broker specialising in worldwide Health Insurance, Group Income Protection and Critical Illness as well as Group Life. Its expertise is not limited to private and company clients but extends to specific industries including Aviation , Marine, Oil & Gas.
"We will tailor solutions for high net worth private clients and companies with specific on shore & off.shore International Health & Risk Insurance requirements. Working with leading insurance pmviders!Jvm around the world allows BD Global Medical to provide the best available and the most comprehensive range ojJ JJ.roducts and services."
BD Global Medical has a London base in the City's Devonshire Square but will work hand-in-hand with BDHL's Kent base for its administration. Contact our Kent office +44 (0) 1892 891900 for further information
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BUSINESS
SO
BUSINESS NEWS
OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE LOCAL BUSINESS WORLD
n FLYING HIGH
n CULINARY ADVICE
n EXPANSION PLANS
A Tunbridge Wells travel agency has
The icing on the cake for a national
Growth plans are underway for a
expanded with the acquisition of a
company’s expansion has come from
Weald-based health service provider.
Wealden business. Baldwins Travel,
a local audit, tax and advisory firm.
Berwick Devoil Healthcare, based at
which has offices in Grosvenor Road,
In a £4million deal, Real Good Food
Lamberhurst Vineyard, has launched
welcomed Cranbrook-based Grace
(RGF) plc acquired cake decoration
BD Global Medical, an international
Travel into the company, recognising a
company, Rainbow Dust Colours
healthcare arm. The newly focused
similar ethos and success. Joint
Ltd, with due diligence and tax
Employee Benefits team has been
Managing Directors, Nick and Chris
advice provided by Crowe Clark
created to further develop BDH’s strong
Marks, comment: “There is much
Whitehill, which has offices in
reputation in the international market.
synergy in the way that we all work –
Tunbridge Wells and has advised
Directors Caroline Weiss-Jones and Guy
offering high quality customer service
RGF for many years. CCW Director,
Jones say: “The launch of this new and
that is unrivalled in the county – and
Rob Lee-Davey, says:
dedicated brand to cater for our global
the country. We now have seven
“In Kent, the food industry remains
clients is a significant milestone for
locations and offer a comprehensive
a buoyant sector for M&A activity
BDHL’s development and a
and excellent service to all travellers,
and we see continued consolidation,
demonstration of our intention to
both retail and corporate and, of
as well as some interesting new
continue to invest in growing our
course, also provide an extensive
initiatives and concepts coming
business in an area we believe to be of
Foreign Exchange facility.”
to market.”
significant importance.”
www.baldwinstravel.co.uk
www.crowehorwath.net/uk
www.bdglobalmedical.com
KINGS OF THE CASTLE Double celebrations are in order for a financial advice firm in Tonbridge. Castle Corporate Finance, headed up by Directors Mike Norrie and Stuart Stepney, picked up the prestigious Corporate Finance Advisory Team of the Year award, while Stuart Stepney was named Corporate Finance Advisor of the Year for the third year in a row at the Insider South East Dealmakers Awards 2015. Mike Norrie says: “As a boutique firm, we are proud to have won two more awards following our successes in 2014. We really appreciate the support of all our professional friends and colleagues.” www.castlecf.com
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Make it a happy new tax year this April. There are few certainties in this world, with the exceptions of death and taxes. Most people aim to enjoy life in the meantime; some live the dream of early retirement. As chartered accountants and tax advisers, we help our clients run more profitable businesses and achieve greater tax efficiency- personally and professionally. BSR Bespoke is a people business first and foremost. To find out more- contact us to book a free initial consultation.
01892 514514 Linden House, Linden Close, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8HH
www.bsrb.co.uk Untitled-5 2
BSR BESPOKE CHARTERED
ACCOUNTANTS
20/03/2015 16:51
BUSINESS
SO
SOCIAL GOOD BUSINESS The Wealden Business Group’s annual charity dinner at The Little Silver Country Hotel, Tenterden, was a sell-out success, raising over £4,000 for the Pestalozzi International Village Trust in East Sussex. More than 100 guests attended the function, which featured an auction with items including a signed England Test team cricket shirt, a bottle of House of Commons whisky bearing the signature of Prime Minister David Cameron and gift vouchers. “The evening was a tremendous success,” says Wealden Business Group Chairman, Simon Hammond. “It’s particularly brilliant that we raised more at our charity dinner than ever before.” Photography by Nikos Photography www.nikosweddings.com
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C U LT U R E
CULTUREVULTURE OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE AREA
arresting paintings, he makes for marvellously entertaining company. It is a delight to spend an hour in the company of this hilarious and magnetic comedian. As the show comes to a theatre near you very soon, you’re in for a rare treat. The five years away from the live arena have only whetted Noel’s appetite for stand-up. He can’t wait to get back in front of an audience. The performer, who has spent the last few years occupied by the meticulously produced, semianimated E4 show, Noel Fielding’s Luxury
Comedy, begins by underlining that nothing beats the rush generated by live work. “The problem with TV is that it takes years to make and after a while you can’t remember what it’s like to tell a joke and get a laugh from it. The great thing about live comedy is that it cuts out the middle men – all those TV producers and directors. It takes out everything that gets in the way, so it’s just you and the audience. It’s a really pure set-up.” The show promises a typically uplifting variety of disparate elements, along with music that Noel has composed with Serge Pizzorno from Kasabian and some characteristically entrancing stand-up routines. Noel, who for many years performed with his close friend Julian Barratt in The Mighty Boosh – once dubbed “the funniest comedy double act in Britain” by the NME – discloses some of the themes he will be addressing in this part of the show. “I touch on turning 40 and my Peter Pan complex. Because I’m now 40, I try to do a bleak bit, but of course it soon becomes completely fantastical. I attempt to go gritty, but I can’t help going fantasy.” Noel’s comedy is always richly imaginative, but can he tell if he’s gone too far?
LUXURY COMEDY AHEAD
“No! Locked away in North London for years making Noel Fielding’s Luxury Comedy, we’d
Comedian Noel Fielding has embarked on his first solo tour for five years and later this year, he’ll be coming to Tunbridge Wells. Thanks to his work on The Mighty Boosh, Noel Fielding’s Luxury Comedy and Never Mind the Buzzcocks, he has an enormously loyal following, but what drives his surreal and unique brand of laughter? James Rampton finds out
F
think, ‘Let’s do something based on William Blake’s painting, The Ghost of a Flea.’ That could be very self-indulgent. But it could only exist on telly. Doing stand-up, you’re edited by the audience. If you take too mad a line, you’ll lose people. But on the other hand, if something is getting big laughs, it’ll never leave the show.”
An Evening With Noel Fielding can be eaturing Noel’s inimitable blend of stand-up,
miss out. Come along, bring your Nan. Fancy
seen at the Assembly Hall in Tunbridge
animation, music and appearances by some
dress optional.”
Wells on Friday November 13 and at the
of his best-loved characters, including The
Noel and I are chatting in his north London studio.
time of writing, tickets – priced at £25 –
Moon, The Dark Side of the Moon and Fantasy
Surrounded by props – including life-size cardboard
were selling fast.
Man, An Evening With Noel Fielding is a blinding
cut-outs of a robber with a stripy jumper and a swag
To book call 01892 530 613 or visit
show. As Noel himself puts it, “You’d be a fool to
bag and a nun wielding a huge gun – and his own
www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
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FISHY GOINGS-ON Fantasy blurs with reality when two bizarre lives collide in The
Gig
Secret Lives of Henry and Alice, by David Tristram. From President of the United States to spy, Henry can be anyone he
OF THE MONTH
wants and he’s not afraid to experiment. But if his life is far from dull, housewife Alice’s is completely the opposite – until men… Only their pet goldfish Orca knows
ABSOLUTE TREAT
what’s really going on in this hilarious and
Blues fans have the chance to experience one of the hottest rising bands on
she starts to meet some rather exciting
entertaining play. You can see it at the Oast
the scene when Absolution come to Sevenoaks on Saturday April 25. This
Theatre in Tonbridge from Saturday April 18
modern blues power trio won the ‘One to Watch’ and ‘Best Guitar Solo’
to Saturday April 25. Tickets cost
accolades at the WRC Awards in 2013 and they’ve appeared at the Great
£10/£9/£7.50 and can be booked by
British Rock and Blues Festival, so here’s an opportunity to catch these up-and-
calling 01732 363 849 or visiting
coming stars in action. The concert starts at The Stag at 7.30pm and tickets
www.oasttheatre.com
cost £10 in advance or £12 on the door. You can book online at www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk or call 01732 450 175.
BABY JANE Acclaimed for her
HAPPY HUNTING Hot on the heels of his BBC show Songs of the
entertaining lectures on
South, in which he explored the music of his
18th century writers and
homeland by travelling from North Carolina to New
diarists, actress Karin
Orleans, Reginald D Hunter returns to offer up
Fernald was delighted to
his unique and hilarious view of life. A regular guest on shows such as QI,
discover Jane Austen’s
Hunter’s laconic style belies his razor sharp wit, so this gig at Tunbridge
juvenile attempts at novel
Wells’ Assembly Hall on Thursday April 30 is sure to be packed with
writing. Anarchic and
laughter. Tickets cost
farcical, the works make great material for an informative and
£24/£22. Book online at
fun show about one of English literature’s greatest figures.
www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
We Fainted Alternately on the Sofa: Jane Austen in the
or call 01892 530 613.
Making can be seen at Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells at 2.30pm on Wednesday April 22. Tickets cost £14/£13/£10. To book call 01892 678 678 or visit www.trinitytheatre.net
ON SONG FOR CHARITY
LAUGH IT UP
Pupils from Bennett Memorial School will join the
Treat yourself to some chuckles when Lonestar Comedy Club brings
Jubilee Singers and the Police Band for the Mayor’s
three more top acts to The Sinden Theatre in Tenterden on Friday April
Charity Concert at St John’s Church in Tunbridge
17. Stephen Grant, Stefano Paolini and Paul F Taylor will be providing
Wells. The performance starts at 7.30pm on Saturday
the laughs in cabaret style and there’s a supper available in the interval.
April 25 and tickets cost £10. To find out more visit
Tickets cost £15 with supper, or £10 without. To book call 01580 763 826
www.burrswood.org.uk
or visit www.sindentheatre.com
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ASSEMBLY HALL THEATRE
The Illegal Eagles
Dylan Moran
Sex In Suburbia
Count Arthur Strong
Reginald D Hunter Thu 30 April
La Traviata
Fri 1 May
Madama Butterfly
The Tiger Who Came to Tea
Sally Morgan
Thu 16 April
Fri 17 April
Wed 29 April
Sat 2 May
Sun 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mon 4 May
Sat 18 April
Tue 5 May
TW400
Book online at: Box Office:
01892 530613/532072 Untitled-5 2
www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk Follow us:
20/03/2015 16:52
C U LT U R E
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INSIDEVIEW This month our music columnist, local singer songwriter and promoter Paul Dunton, reveals one of his favourite developing music destinations in Tunbridge Wells – the Cross Keys pub
A
t the north end of St Johns Road lies the Cross Keys pub and it’s undergone something of a transformation. For many years this pub didn’t enjoy a very
favourable reputation and to the best of my knowledge, it just about survived each year thanks to its regulars. But in 2011 the Cross Keys was taken over by Jerome and Collette Mohamed, who immediately breathed new life into the place with their passion and energy. The pub went through a complete overhaul, inside and out, and it wasn’t long before it visually looked like
Motown, soul and funk bands – definitely a
holiday craft activities, hosted musical bumps
a completely new venue. With a whole new
night made for those dancing shoes!
and NCT classes.”
team of staff and an exciting new food and
“Music is at the heart of the Cross Keys, with
On the back of the pub’s growing success, in
drink menu, word soon began to spread about
live shows at least three nights a week. Our
late 2014 the Cross Keys was named the regional
the new and improved Cross Keys. The pub is
main focus is on jazz, blues, Motown, R&B,
winner of the Enterprise Community Heroes
definitely now a family friendly environment
funk and soul, however, we are also lucky to
award, after introducing a number of initiatives that
offering baby change facilities, an inside play
play host to the Acoustic Reverbs Collective
have made it a focal point for families, music and
area and a beautiful garden away from the
events and open mics, plus the largest ukulele
the arts. The £5,000 award has allowed Jerome
road.
group in the area, TWUNTs, plays regularly.
and Collette to purchase new equipment, a
Sonny’s Newcomers night takes place once a
purpose built stage for live performances and a
continuing success of the venue is Jerome’s
month, supporting talented artists that want
marquee for community events, and invest in soft
passion for live music, with jazz and blues at
the experience of a real gig. We are keen to
play equipment for the under-fives.
the forefront, coupled with many other popular
promote local musicians and link with musical
themed nights and a broad mix of genres.
schools and colleges in the area.
However, the other key ingredient to the
“A dream I have had for many years is to
“We host open mic nights for music, comedy
The Cross Keys has now become an integral destination for live music within the town. This is fantastic news for musicians and music
own and run a jazz café, my very own Ronnie
and poetry, providing a safe environment for
lovers alike, and further evidence of the
Scott’s – well, you know what they say, think
local talent to practise, showcase and learn.
continued development and evolution of the
big!” Jerome says. “Sonny’s Jazz was born in
We also provide free space for lots of events to
flourishing Tunbridge Wells music scene.
the summer of 2012 and ever since there has
local community groups, local businesses and
been a wide variety of local and national
schools. Mums have a relaxing space to meet
musicians taking centre stage every Thursday
while the kids play in our indoor and outdoor
evening. Sonny’s Blues and Groove is our
play areas or take part in entertainment, such
For details of Paul’s upcoming showcases see
weekly Friday night treat, showcasing blues,
as wizard school (with a local magician), school
www.paulduntonandguests.co.uk
Find out what’s going on at www.crosskeystw.co.uk
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ADVERTORIAL
Through April the Fairfax Gallery will be running with 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 Chris Macauley ‘Hozizontal’ Oil on Canvas 55 x 80cm Barry Wilson ‘ Grace’ Oil on Canvas 100 x 120 cm Chris Macauley ‘Three Swans’ Oil on Canvas 85 x 122cm Chris Macualey ‘Tumbling Dice’ Oil on Canvas 37 x 20cm
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 the Fairfax Gallery has another gallery in Burnham Market, as well as exhibiting in London, New York, Singapore & Hong Kong, the original Pantiles gallery always ensures it has the latest and strongest examples on display in its spacious gallery set over two floors with a large stock behind the scenes...
ON THIS PAGE Gemma Harwood ‘Spike’ Map Construction on Panel 50 x 50cm David Eichenberg ‘Jason’ Oil on Panel 18 x 15cm Alice Scrutton ‘Holkam Spring’ Oil on Canvas 101 x 101cm Helen Sinclair ‘Cream Tea Philosophy’ Stone Resin Height 94cm
Tel: 01892 525 525
www.fairfaxgallery.com
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C O N TA C T S
M A G A Z I N E
SO
16 Lonsdale Gardens Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU Tel: 01892 779 650 www.somagazine.co.uk Editor Jane Connolly jconnolly@onemediauk.co.uk Head of Design Rowena Cremer-Price rcremer-price@onemediauk.co.uk Senior Journalist Charlie Bond cbond@onemediauk.co.uk Publishing Design Manager Xela Ruy xruy@onemediauk.co.uk Junior Designer Ameila Giddings agiddings@onemediauk.co.uk Production Co-ordinators Lauren Howe lhowe2@onemediauk.co.uk Becky Wells bwells@onemediauk.co.uk Writer Frederick Latty flatty@onemediauk.co.uk Commercial & Digital Marketing Manager Laura Plane lplane@onemediauk.co.uk Head of Sales Joe De Kwant Stoner jstoner@onemediauk.co.uk COMMERCIAL TEAM Team Leader Gemma Hak ghak@onemediauk.co.uk Team Leader Patsy Kelly pkelly@onemediauk.co.uk Jake Short jshort@onemediauk.co.uk Clara Higgs-Prosser chprosser@onemediauk.co.uk Laura Welstead lwelstead@onemediauk.co.uk Robin Singer rsinger@markerstudy.com Distribution Co-ordinator Harry Lamb Contributors Valerie Thacker • Catherine de Crèvecoeur • Daniel Gee David Bartholomew • Paul Dunton • Matt Harding Penny Ireson • Lee Smith • Tim Feeley Publishing Director Nick Moore nmoore@onemediauk.co.uk Editorial Director Richard Moore rmoore@onemediauk.co.uk Like us on Facebook facebook.com/SoMagazines Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/SoMagazines
one media Published by:
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SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE ONLINE All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial. The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit.
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T H E AT R E
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ENCORE
CREATING A WINTER WONDERLAND It’s not every day that a theatre gets to do something entirely different. Next month, the Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells will give a frosty reception to a very special show
T
his May, the Assembly Hall Theatre
the night to level it. Then the level of the
stage is to be transformed into an iced
auditorium needs to be raised to allow the
stage and the challenge will be to
audience to see the skates.
creatively adapt the theatre space
The build is a lengthy and complicated
– the reason being, the Russian Ice Stars’
process and a strict timetable needs to be
production of Snow White comes to
followed. Two 45ft trucks will arrive on site
Tunbridge Wells next month.
early on Tuesday morning. They will unload
Before the arrival of the ice show, the theatre
the scenery, props and costume truck (known
has to level the stage – this is known as
as the ‘dry truck’) and start rigging lights, set
‘anti-rake’. There is a slight slope to the stage,
and flying equipment. In the afternoon, the
so scaffolders will come in and work through
‘wet truck’ containing the floor system and surround is unloaded and the task of building the ice rink begins. Two 15m x 15m industrial pool liners are laid
process takes approximately 14 to 18 hours. Once the rink is completed, the surface
on the stage and side supports from wood are
temperature is constantly monitored day and
built to create a large but shallow swimming
night throughout the stay at the theatre. In
pool. The most difficult part of the build now
addition to this, during the interval and after
begins, as 15km of flexible rubber pipe is laid.
each performance of the show, the surface is
The position must be exact to ensure even
scraped and resurfaced with hot water to keep
freezing of the ice. The pipes are connected to a
it as smooth as possible.
header system connected to two chiller units. Chief Electrician Morgan Jones says: “It’s imperative on a build like this that you do not fall behind with the schedule. At the end of the
Facts at a glance: • 14 tons of ice are used on stage, equalling the weight of two double-decker buses
build it can be quite strange to look around and
• 14,000 litres of water are used to build the
see the stage has been transformed into an ice
rink – enough water to make more than
rink. It’s what I love about working at the Assembly Hall, every week is different.” Once everything is in place, the pipes are filled with a mixture of glycol (antifreeze) and
56,000 cups of tea • 2,500 litres of antifreeze are used in the pipe systems, enough to fill 100 RollsRoyce radiators
water, chilled to -15C and circulated through the floor pipes. At this point, the rubber pipes
Snow White on Ice runs at the Assembly Hall
begin to frost over. Four tons of crushed ice is
Theatre from Thursday May 21 until Sunday 24
then spread over the floor pipes, providing a
May. Performances start at 7.30pm daily, also at
head start in the freezing process. From this
2.30pm on Friday and Saturday.
point, the rink is sprayed with water every 20
01892 530 613
to 30 seconds until it reaches 7 to 8cm. This
www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
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Gorringes Tunbridge Wells LLP, 85 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1PX
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ADVERTORIAL
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
record-breaking exam results – but we
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
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
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
225
St Edmund’s welcomes new pupils and
not always recognise the value of
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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JACK1956; MAULL & CO PHOTOGRAPHERS, CIRCA 1872
TAKEN FROM FAMOUS TRIALS: THE TICHBORNE CLAIMANT… AND OTHERS BY JOHN TORREY MORSE, 1974
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Lady Tichborne
Was the Claimant (right) really Roger Tichborne (left)?
most influential supporter and his income. The court case over the Claimant’s true identity opened in May 1871, but the following March the jury threw out the Claimant’s case. Not only had he failed to prove that he was Roger Tichborne, he was now to be put on trial for perjury. Lasting for over 10 months, the perjury trial was one of the longest in English legal history, but the jury’s deliberations lasted a mere 30 minutes. They concluded that the defendant was Arthur Orton. He The Claimant
was sentenced to 14 years in jail, while his lawyer,
in around 1872
Edward Kenealy, was disbarred for poor behaviour. The Claimant was released after serving 10 years
SECRET
CLAIM TO FAME Missing heirs, imposters and disputed family fortunes – possibly the most outrageous claim in British legal history seemed to finally rest in Tunbridge Wells…
W
and in an 1895 interview, he confessed to being hen 25-year-old English nobleman Roger Tichborne was
Upon his death from heart disease in 1898, at
lost in a shipwreck off the
the age of 64 – destitute and destined for a
Brazilian coast in April 1854, his
pauper’s grave – it was assumed that one of the
parents, the baronet Sir James and Lady Henriette
most famous claims in legal history would die with
Tichborne, were naturally devastated. But his mother
him. However, there was one person who still
persisted in her hope that Roger may still be alive –
fervently believed in his right to inherit the
this was fuelled by rumours that survivors had been
Tichborne estate - his daughter, Theresa.
picked up by a passing ship and taken to Australia. More than a decade later, Lady Tichborne received
Convinced that she was a wronged heiress, the sometime actress used the surname Tichborne and
word that a bankrupt butcher called Thomas Castro
remained obsessed with the case. During the 1910s
was claiming to be her long lost son.
and 20s she faced charges of blackmail and threats
Over the next few years, at least three possible
of violence against the Tichborne family - in the first
identities were attributed to Castro, so he was more
episode, she wrote a letter threatening to shoot the
generally known as ‘the Claimant’. He arrived in
fiancée of the current baronet, Sir Joseph Tichborne,
England in 1866 and on their first meeting, Lady
‘rather than Joseph shall marry her and they shall live
Tichborne immediately accepted him as her son. She
on my money’. She later libelled Sir Joseph by
gave him an income of £1,000 a year – equivalent to
claiming he had encouraged her to commit suicide.
around £80,000 today. There were some other believers, but the vast
Theresa served two prison sentences of between six and 12 months, but nothing would
majority of the Tichborne family insisted the Claimant
persuade her to drop her claim. In 1924, she told a
was nothing but a greedy imposter, mainly due to the
newspaper that, 40 years earlier, her late father
numerous mistakes he made when questioned about
had confessed to having shot Arthur Orton dead
his former life. There was much at stake – the heir to
during a quarrel in Australia, which was why he
the baronetcy (at that time, Roger’s infant nephew,
was unable to give an explanation of Orton’s
Alfred) would inherit not only the title, but also an
disappearance for fear of prosecution.
income of more than £20,000 per year (around £2million in today’s money). Investigators working for the Tichborne family
226
Arthur Orton, but soon retracted the statement.
Miss Tichborne spent her last days in the tranquillity of Tunbridge Wells, but went to her grave in 1939, at the age of 73, still convinced that
suspected that the Claimant was in fact Arthur Orton,
her family had suffered a miscarriage of justice
a butcher’s son from Wapping whom the Claimant
and she had been robbed of her rightful life as a
said he’d befriended in Australia. But the biggest blow
noblewoman. Could she have been right? The
to the Claimant’s hopes came in March 1868, when
debate over the Tichborne inheritance continues
Lady Tichborne died, leaving him bereft of both his
to this day.
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