So Wealden January 2016

WEALDEN

TREND FORECAST

2016 WEALDEN JANUARY 2016 WWW.SOMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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NEPTUNE

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M A G A Z I N E

CONTENTS

EDITOR’S LETTER

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

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

WELCOME TO YOUR JANUARY ISSUE OF SO As we enter 2016 and look to the year ahead, I expect many of you, like me, have made resolutions for the next 12 months (hands up, how many of you have broken them already?) Every year I vow to lose weight, stop shopping and become a tidy person. As I write this, eating a slice of cake, wearing new shoes and surrounded by stacks of magazines, I can confirm that yet again, my resolutions

HEAD OF SALES Joe De Kwant Stoner jstoner@onemediauk.co.uk

weren’t to be. On page 14 we’ve spoken to a life coach about goal setting, so that if you’d actually like

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Richard Moore rmoore@onemediauk.co.uk

wardrobe, and with the help of our 2016 style guide on pg 44 you can ditch those winter woollies and

PUBLISHED BY

to stick to your resolutions, help is on hand.

Even though we’re hardly in sandal weather, I’m already beginning to stock up my spring begin embracing the new season’s styles. Plus, on pg 77 we’ve got your guide to all of the upcoming trends for the year ahead, including interiors, food and drink and even your love life.

This month I’m definitely empathising with our secret bridal columnist on page 69 – I’m also set to tie the knot this year, and reading her stresses about the weather has made me consider buying some extra umbrellas for the day. Whether I’ll ditch the heels for wellies remains to be seen

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.

however…

Good luck sticking to those resolutions – I’ll probably see you in the High Street, pretending I’m just there window shopping…

EDITOR cbond@onemediauk.co.uk

CONTENTS 10 NEWS Winning wines

44 TREND REPORT

from local estate

Your style guide for 2016

11 LETTERS Trolley tantrums

77 LOOKING AHEAD

in Tenterden

Out with the old and in with the new

24 CASTLE VIEWS Wealden sights

94 PHOTO SHOOT

from Bodiam

Vintage shopping and showtunes in Tenterden

38 THE CELEBRITY

126 TRAVEL

Jourdan Dunn’s

Spa time in

made her mark

Saint Lucia

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

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NEWS

Wealden

NEWS...

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

ROYAL RESPONSE

WINNING WINES The International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) has awarded Gusbourne Estate, near Appledore as the ‘English Wine Producer or the Year’. Gusbourne was the only English winery to be awarded the IWSC’s highest accolade this year, winning two IWSC gold medals and one gold outstanding.

“We are honoured to be announced this year’s English Wine Producer of the Year and are extremely happy to be recognised for creating some of the finest wines in the world,” says winemaker for Gusbourne Estate, Charlie Holland. “This year we secured some fantastic ontrade clients including Gordon Ramsay’s Royal Hospital Road in Chelsea and we will continue to develop our on-trade connections next year.”

The Royal British Legion in Hawkhurst has been saved after an appeal for new officers. A string of volunteers put themselves forward for roles to keep the branch going after an emergency meeting was called, and members signed up to fill the roles needed.

“It is a big commitment in terms of time. We need younger people to get involved,” says David Burgess, the club’s secretary. “I was pleased with the response. I did not want to continue as secretary but decided to rather than let the branch collapse.”

controls are in place to prevent light pollution.

“Protecting Ashford’s dark skies enables us to promote astro-tourism and support our rural economy,” says Mark Carty, Ashford council’s head of culture and environment.

CRANBROOK CRIMES IN THE DARK A local village with some of the darkest skies in south east England is seeking international astronomical recognition. Ashford Borough Council has applied for Woodchurch, near Tenterden to get International Dark Sky Community status to help attract tourists. A dark sky status means the night sky is protected and lighting

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Two men who burgled houses in Cranbrook have been sent to prison.

Craig Gillingham, 25, and 21-year-old Craig Chamberlain pleaded guilty to a two-month crime spree in 2013, which also included homes in Sevenoaks, Brenchley, Maidstone and Aylesford.

The pair stole jewellery, watches and electronic devices. In one burglary, a safe was taken containing watches and jewellery with an estimated value of £50,000

CYCLING SUCCESS In the October issue of So we ran a competition to win an e-bike, courtesy of www.e-bikesdirect.co.uk.

Here’s lucky reader Gina Bott from Tonbridge receiving her prize from Matt Flanagan, managing director of E Bikes Direct. Stay tuned for more great competition opportunities in 2016.

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LETTERS

SO

...AND VIEWS

THIS IS WHERE YOU HAVE YOUR SAY ON WHAT’S HAPPENING IN AND AROUND THE WEALD LETTER OF THE MONTH

CAROL COMPLIMENTS I went to three separate carol services in local churches last month (because I just love singing!) and I just wanted to say what a lovely time I had. They were all well organised, with printed song sheets so that all the people there could join in, and there were mince pies on hand as well! Everybody was so friendly and content singing together side-by-side with people from all walks of life. Just fabulous!

Well done and thank you to everyone who made these carol services a success.

FRED JAMES, Cranbrook Ed: Sounds like you’re singing their praises there!

TROLLEY TANTRUM The other day I went to Tesco in Tenterden and was appalled at what I saw. I parked my car and headed towards the supermarket, and there must have been at least 20 discarded shopping trolleys strewn about the car park! They were all within 20 metres of the nearest trolley collection point and some of them were right in the middle of the thoroughfare. I would love to say it was stormy and that the trolleys were blown across the car park, but it was a lovely, bright, still day. In my opinion, the general public need to be more considerate, and Tesco ought to employ more staff!

JULIE BELL, Tenterden Ed: Or employ Dale Winton…

BLIND BEND I read the rant about pedestrians in the road after dark in last month’s issue of SO and I have to say that I’m disappointed. There’s no denying it would make sense for people to wear bright/reflective clothing when walking along roads without streetlights. My dismay springs from Francesca’s implication that she is one of the drivers who come ‘hurtling’ round bends and asks ‘why should I slow down?’ You would do well to consider your own driving, particularly down narrow country

IN THE BAG Without wanting to sound bitter, I would just like to politely ask all women who carry handbags the size of a small armchair to be more careful. I am not suggesting that all women who sling a bag over their shoulder are careless, but there is an alarming percentage of pavements and corridors

lanes after dark, before pointing the finger at pedestrians.

BOB MANSON, Goudhurst Ed: It seems people are in the dark about winter safety!

ALL’S FAIR I am writing in to wish everyone at So magazine and all you readers out there a happy New Year! May 2016 bring you health and wealth, family and friends and may all your dreams come true. I had a very tough 2015, as I am sure many others did too, so I am ready to pick up my game and make the changes necessary to create my own luck. Hopefully, this letter will inspire you all to do the same!

SALLY TRACKER, Uckfield Ed: New Year, new you!

taken up but these oversized accessories which often leave me pinned to the wall or flung into the road. Dare I ask you, oblivious handbag carriers, to downsize please?

JEFFEREY NICHOLS, Biddenden Ed: You may have bagged yourself a few adversaries with that letter…

Email cbond@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.

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INTERVIEW

• Does this mean making some changes?

• What are they?

• How will this impact on your life as a whole?

• How will it affect the other people in your life?

• Can you take lots of small more achievable steps to get you from where you are now to where you want to be?

• What are these steps?

• What will be the reward/pay off for achieving each step?

• When will be the best time to do these?

A FRESH START

• What else is going on in your world that you

Before you write an extensive list of resolutions, Life Coach Caroline Hart from Tunbridge Wells has this advice…

• Where can you get this support?

need to consider?

• What support do you need?

WE OFTEN FAIL WHEN WE SET OURSELVES BIG GOALS – SHOULD THIS BE AVOIDED, OR IS THERE JUST

DO YOU THINK THAT IN

you will stick to it.

Another issue can be in dealing

JANUARY WE PUT TOO

A BETTER WAY OF APPROACHING THEM?

MUCH PRESSURE ON

with setbacks and challenges. It is

Big goals can seem so daunting so break it

OURSELVES?

helpful to consider what you will do

down into smaller goals a

Yes that is the case for some!

if things don’t go to plan. Many if

You have a whole year to create goals and make changes, so why not instead of starting your New Year’s resolution now think about what

they go off plan once just say “I have failed” rather than recognising what they have achieved noting a minor/major

“A journey of a thousand miles starts with just one step” What are the steps that will lead you from where you are now to where you want to be?

hitch and getting themselves refocused.

HOW CAN WE AVOID FALLING INTO

you would like to achieve in the year ahead HOW CAN WE ENSURE WE’RE BEING

THE TRAP OF MAKING THE SAME

REALISTIC?

RESOLUTIONS YEAR AFTER YEAR?

WHAT ARE THE MAIN REASONS WE

It is important to be realistic and take time to

Don’t do it!

FAIL AT STICKING TO OUR

think changes through. Here are some

RESOLUTIONS?

questions to think about to help you clarify

What a crazy time to make resolutions.

what you want and how you will approach it:

and plan some inspirational goals for 2016?

If you do what you have always done you will get what you have always got.

The definition of madness has been said to be doing the same thing over and over and

Often we are making plans while full of

expecting different results.

the festive spirit – possibly not ideal!

• What is it you want to achieve?

Winter is a time of year when many

Now ask yourself these questions:

people feel less motivated and energised

• What will happen if you do?

take a different approach. Maybe this year get

because of the colder weather and shorter

• What won’t happen if you do?

a coach to help you achieve it or to help you

days.

• What will happen if you don’t?

understand what you can change in your

• What won’t happen if you don’t?

thoughts and actions that will make a

through properly and sweeping

So if you are sure you want to create a goal

difference for you.

statements are made without truly

for 2016 think about your life as a whole.

considering how keeping to them will

• What things are important to you in the year

New Year’s resolutions are not thought

affect other areas of life – sometimes we

ahead?

So if this year you want things to be different

This month Caroline is running a workshop on goal setting.

set goals because others have said we

• Why are these important?

Visit www.lifeandlaughtercoach.co.uk

should. If it is not your goal it is unlikely

• What will they give you?

to find out more.

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ADVERTORIAL

SO

THE SCIENCE OF HELPING WITH RELATIONSHIP BREAKDOWN Highly experienced with an excellent reputation for dealing in all aspects of family law, Yashin Masoliver has been a member of Berry and Lamberts in Sevenoaks for over 15 years. We find out more about how he can help in resolving complex financial issues following relationship breakdown “THE GOAL IS to avoid going to court if at all possible,” says Yashin Masoliver, leaning forward over his desk in Berry and Lamberts’ Sevenoaks office. It’s a sentiment that may appear surprising, coming, as it does, from a litigation lawyer. But when it’s divorce or other family matters, Yashin is adamant: “The thrust of this practice is to reach a sensible and fair negotiated settlement in order to avoid substantial costs being incurred.”

However you look at it, family breakdown, separation or divorce is a sad and extraordinarily stressful time in anyone’s life. But it doesn’t necessarily have to be cripplingly expensive. Berry and Lamberts provide all the resources and expertise of the big city firms, but at a fraction of the cost.

Yashin is based in Sevenoaks and is head of the firm’s family department, with a team of eight specialists spread over Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge, Maidstone and Kings Hill. He’s been doing family work for 20 years, ever since he qualified in the mid-1990s. Initially, though, it was science, not law, that appealed, and his original degree was in biology.

It didn’t take long, however, to realise he wanted to work with people rather than spending his life in a lab looking through a microscope. Nonetheless, his forensic attention to detail has remained firmly with him. Now, clients turn to him for advice and help with all aspects of their relationships.

“It’s not just divorce or couple separation,” he says. “There are more and more people looking for cohabitation or prenuptial agreements. It’s particularly important if you are getting together later in life.”

Yashin Masoliver was born in London in 1966. His father is a Spanish poet and

academic, his mother a psychotherapist.

It wasn’t the Iberian influence that gave him his distinctive name, however; that came from the famous Russian World Cup goalkeeper, Lev Yashin.

Today, the Sevenoaks Yashin is respected for his particular expertise in resolving complex financial issues following relationship breakdowns.

“When people come to see me, they are often confused, upset and fearful of the future,” he continues. “They know they can trust me to be on their side and to tell them what they need to know.” He’s also an accredited specialist and trained mediator with Resolution, who seek to help couples reach agreement without going to court.

“I know I am empathetic in the way I understand what they are going through,” he says. “I communicate in a way they understand and then help get them to a place from where they can move on in life and have hope for the future. Of course, when clients’ aspirations are not met by negotiation, I am a tenacious advocate for their rights.” Science’s loss would very definitely appear to be the law’s gain.

Berry and Lamberts 7 Dorset Street, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1LL 01732 460 565 www.berryandlamberts.co.uk

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EVENTS

SO

JANUARY

CALENDAR

ROB STROTHARD

2ND » COUNTRYSIDE CURE What better way to clear your head and kick start your New Year’s resolutions than taking a long stroll in the British countryside? National Trust beauty spot Knole Park in Sevenoaks is open all of January for you to enjoy the 1,000 acres of natural wood and grassland. Free downloadable routes are available for you to plan a walk which encompasses the landscape and fascinating history of this medieval park. Be sure to keep the dog on a lead because around 350 wild deer graze there throughout the year.

Car park open 10am – 5pm, café open 11am – 4pm and indoor bookshop open 10am – 5pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole

9TH » TREECYCLING

10TH » BREAKFAST BONANZA

12TH » MIND YOURSELF

Pilgrims Hospice in Tenterden is organising an environmentally friendly fundraiser to help you responsibly dispose of your Christmas tree. You can register online before January 6 to opt for your Christmas tree to be recycled and make a donation of your choice. Last year, Pilgrims Hospice managed to raise £9,000 and they are hoping to beat that total this year. The event runs on January 9 and 10.

To sign up for Christmas treerecycling, visit wwwpilgrimshospices.org

Tonbridge boasts Kent’s largest market, and the January Farmhouse Breakfast Special is no exception. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a buzzing marketplace with a plethora of varied local produce, from freshly baked treats to flavoursome meat and poultry. Since breakfast is the most important meal of the day, you can buy your bacon bap and cup of coffee prepared on-site or pick up all the ingredients you need to create your British breakfast back home. Tonbridge Market runs from 9.30am1.30pm at Sovereign Way. Visit www.tonbridgefarmersmarket.co.uk

If you want to concentrate on your wellbeing and emotional health this year, then Jasmine, an eight week programme at Sevenoaks Wellbeing Centre could be the fresh start you need. Designed for women, the course which is run by charity West Kent Mind is free of charge and an experienced councillor and psychotherapist is on hand to help work through any issue, whether that’s stress, anxiety or depression. The programme begins on January 12 and runs from 10am to 12pm.

Visit www.westkentmind.org.uk or call 01732 744950 for more info.

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EVENTS

20TH » COPPICE COLLECTIVE

STEPHEN ROBSON

JONATHAN BUCKLEY

Kent High Weald Partnership are encouraging volunteers to partake in the coppicing conservation project in Hawkenbury. Coppicing involves trimming back trees to make room for new growth, providing useful timber for fencing and hedging, while permitting light to reach the forest floor to nourish the bluebell and the wood anemone. Tools, training and tea are provided and everyone is welcome to get involved. Volunteers meet at the end of Highwoods Lane at 10am.

For more information call 01580 212 972 or email info@khwp.org.uk

15TH » POLISH PASSION

16TH » PICTURE PERFECT

23RD » BOOKS FOR BOYS

This month, the Tunbridge Wells Museum is hosting an exhibition celebrating all things Polish. Wycinanki: The Art of Polish Paper Cuts brings you examples of Polish folk art commissioned by the Horniman Museum coupled with contemporary responses by our local Polish community. The exhibition runs Tuesday to Saturday until 17 April.

Admission is free but donations are encouraged. See www.tunbridgewellsmuseum.org for more information.

Running until February 28, the Garden Photographer of the Year Exhibition is open to visitors in the picturesque grounds at Sissinghurst Castle Garden.

You don’t have to be a photography fanatic or a gardening guru, the whole family can enjoy the artistic photos on display. The site for this exhibition is particularly appropriate because Sissinghurst Castle Garden remains one of the most iconic landscaped gardens in Britain.

Open 11am-5pm. For more information call 01580 710700

If you haven’t done it yet, and you’re wondering how to spend your Saturday, why not check out the Books for Boys Exhibition at Bateman’s in Burwash?

The exhibition explores the literary must-haves of the Victoriana and Edwardian eras, when The Jungle Book and The Wind in the Willows first came to print. The exhibition is open to visitors between 11.30am and 3.30pm throughout January and February. Booking is not essential.

For admission fees, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk

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EVENTS

SO

TH 24 » HITCHED AT HEVER Now that Christmas is out of the way, it’s time to get serious about planning your wedding. Hever Castle is on-hand to showcase their triad of stunning wedding venues, each designed and decorated to give visitors a true feel of how their wedding could look on the day. Since the site is closed to the public, happy couples and their families can wander freely through the Tudor Suite, the Italian Garden and the Castle itself, talking to the head chef, photographers, florists and DJs about your wedding wishes.

To attend the event, held from 10am to 3pm, register your interest at weddings@hevercastle.co.uk

27TH » CUNNING CUISINE

29TH » BURNS’ NIGHT

30TH » LET THERE BE LIGHT

Want to eat healthily but feeling uninspired? This one-day one-off cooking course in Chiddingstone shows attendees how to make feel good meals which leave your stomach satisfied. At the end of the course, you can take away home-made apple sauce oat muffins, chia crispbreads and plenty of fun food facts to inspire your kitchen. The cost of the course, which includes all ingredients and materials, is £65 per person.

For more information and to reserve your place, contact beckyb@commonwork. org or call 01732 463 255

Discover Burns’ Night at the Brecknock Arms in Bells Yew Green, as they put on a feast fit for a famous Scottish poet.

There will be a set menu of Cock a Leekie Soup followed by Haggis, though there are alternative options for the less adventurous! Burns’ Supper wouldn’t be complete without their selection of single malt whiskeys for those who fancy a wee dram, and Scottish music and a recital of Adress to a Haggis are inevitable. Dining is from 6pm and advanced booking is advised.

For menu and prices, call 01892 750 237

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Lantern Parade in Tunbridge Wells, with the theme being “Go Wild!” The parade starts at dusk outside the library and travels along Monson, Camden and Quarry Roads to St Barnabas’ Primary School for music and refreshments. In the weeks leading up to the parade, there are creative lantern-making workshops taking place around the town.

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OUT AND ABOUT

 CASTLE CHARM

Country views from Bodiam Castle WITH THANKS TO CRAIG MATTHEWS

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

Email info@somagazines.co.uk

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MY RANT

GRINDING MY BEANS Why must we insist on this inane coffee culture, wonders Alice from Paddock Wood…

I HATE COFFEE. There, I said it. I

despise the coffee culture which has enveloped our tea-sipping nation like a wave of burnt smelling caffeine supplement. In the past five years, sales of tea have declined 22% in favour of the more popular and stimulating coffee. On every street corner is a Starbucks or a Costa, tempting in brainwashed passers by who have nursed their coffee dependency to the point of obsession.

Surely there are better ways to spend your £2.20? Coffee, to me, seems wasteful and pointless.

This usurping of the humble tea has even changed our way of speaking. “Let’s get a coffee” holds dominion over “let’s meet for tea.” I even find myself talking about meeting for coffee because it is less complicated than talking about

meeting for a beverage of some sort, of either hot or cold nature.

The fact that I don’t like the smell, taste or culture of coffee makes me rather an outsider. To admit that I don’t like coffee can be likened to confession of a deep and embarrassing secret, something sordid and taboo upon which society frowns; which is odd, since caffeine is a nervous system altering substance. It is, in fact, a psychoactive drug. If I were to invite you to my house for a natter and some drugs, you might question my social habits. What makes coffee so acceptable?

I think my deep seated hatred springs from the coffee making etiquette of the workplace. I strongly believe that offering to make drinks for colleagues improves intra-workforce relationships

because it means you can do something for them. I don’t even resent making tea or coffee for others when I am only going to the kitchen to get myself a glass of water. The feeling of selflessness is similar to giving a gift or doing someone a favour. I draw the line, however, when offering your colleagues a drink becomes expected or even enforced.

I worked in one particularly memorable office, where every single member of staff drank tea or coffee of some description. There was a helpful list sellotaped beside the kettle in the kitchen depicting the preferences of each individual for the morning and for the afternoon. Regard, if you will, Specimen A- a.m. coffee, strong, not too much milk, two sweeteners- p.m. green tea, leave teabag in, dash of cold water. And let’s look now at Specimen B- a.m. tea, medium strength, no milk, one sugarp.m. tea, medium strength, medium milk, no sugar.

The list continued this way for each of the 12 members of the company. If you were lucky, on your way to pour yourself a glass of water, only two or three colleagues would opt for a beverage, but this was very rare. To make matters worse, the boss would email the masses from the comfort of a private office with the subject line: What does ‘P’ stand for?

The answer, as we all knew, was parched. This was her charming way of demanding that someone make her a coffee, since almost an hour had passed since her last fix.

Thankfully, not all offices are like this, and I fully condemn tea in equal measure for the workplace hot beverage etiquette. But I can’t help but feel like it isn’t tea’s fault. I am convinced that since coffee immigrated to England, coffee monsters have been created which has inspired the tea snobs to retaliate. My humble water and I are stranded in the crossfire.

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

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SO

CONFIDENTIAL

BY TACITUS

NOTHING ESCAPES OUR ATTENTION

WHO had to dive into a lake to save her dog?

That would be the woman walking in the park with her French bulldog ‘Stanley’.

The pint sized canine took it into his head to jump into the water. Problem is bulldogs can’t swim, something to do with a big head plus little legs, and Stanley sank ‘like a breeze block’. Happily the shocked woman saw where he had disappeared beneath the water, dived in and hauled him out.

WHY

WHICH

WHO

WHY

did this popular local banker baulk at a bar bill?

Because when he ordered three gin and tonics at the bar of a London hotel where he was attending a charity event he was handed a tab for £57.

Mind you they were doubles.

Happily he got over it and managed to imbibe till the early hours. That’s the spirit!

golfer is referred to at his club by the name Synex?

That would be the one who plays just outside Tunbridge Wells and is rather small in stature. He is ‘fondly’ called Synex by fellow players because, apparently, he is ‘a little squirt who gets up your nose’. What cads!

embarrassed their teenage daughter at the shops?

The mum who took a pair of shoes back to Next and handed the carrier to a young man behind the counter. He stuck his hand in the bag... and pulled out an old bra she had thrown into the bag by mistake. The 14-yearold daughter has vowed never to shop with mum again.

did this seven-year-old lad make his family smile?

Because when he was elected a class councillor at school a letter later arrived at his home addressed to him by his new title. He picked it up and told the family: “It’s probably from the Government.” It was a well-done card from his grandparents. Such is politics.

WHO

WHO

WHAT

WHY

went wrong when the new pub landlord ordered a skip?

He placed it outside the establishment while revamping the place only to find that during the night his regulars filled it up with all their waste instead of taking it over to the council tip. Who would have thought avocado bathroom suites still existed!

did this budding journalist fail to get his dream job?

Because when he was invited by the editor to attend the newspaper offices for an interview he turned up with his mother. She sat next to him during the chat chipping in throughout with comments about her ‘darling boy’. Don’t hold the front page.

was left with soup on their hands? had the shortest job on record?

The parish councillor who agreed Simples: The bar manager who to make 10 litres of carrot and turned up for her first shift, in the corriander to warm villagers at the evening, at a local hostelry much annual firework display that was the worse for wear after postponed until last month celebrating a birthday. Within because of bad weather. Only a minutes she had upset regulars handful turned up and only three with her slurred speech, wobbly of them wanted the soup. Guess walk and unique approach to what hubby’s getting for lunch pulling points. Said lady was put in and dinner? a cab and advised never to return.

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

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22/12/2015 10:35

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SO

CELEBRITY

PHOTO: MIKE MARSLAND, BRITISH FASHION COUNCIL

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CELEBRITY

SO

BRITAIN’S

TOP MODEL

B

THIS YEAR MARKS A DECADE IN THE BUSINESS FOR MODEL JOURDAN DUNN, BUT 2016 IS SET TO BE HER BIGGEST YEAR YET… arely a day goes by

she was spotted by a scout from model management

when

Dunn

Storm (the prestigious agency synonymous with making

doesn’t make the news.

the likes of Kate Moss and Cara Delevingne household

Whether

bloggers

names.) Within months she was making her catwalk

praising her latest outfit

debut for Marc Jacobs, walking in their Spring/Summer

choice,

’07 show for New York Fashion Week.

Jourdan it’s

fashion

show

images of her strutting down the catwalk or her taking to

“I was 16. My mobile bill was crazy because I was just on

social media to voice her opinions on contentious issues,

the phone to my mum every day; crying and complaining,

the supermodel’s name is never far from the headlines.

then some more crying and more complaining.”

Just a few weeks ago, she was named Model of the

While adjusting to her newfound workload may have

Year at the British Fashion Awards – her second time of

been tough on the teenager, she adapted quickly and by

picking up the accolade, and at only 25, she’s already got

2008 she was one of the world’s hardest working models,

an illustrious career under her belt as the face and body

appearing in 75 shows in just one season. This was also

of numerous brands and a fashion house favourite. But

the year she turned heads walking for Prada – and in

where did it all begin for one of the industry’s hardest

doing so became the first black model on its catwalk

working models?

for 13 years. She then went on to be named Model of

Born in Greenford, West London in 1990, Jourdan was brought up alongside her two younger brothers by her

the Year in the British Fashion Awards – not a bad set of achievements in just 12 months.

mother Dee, a receptionist. Growing up, it was often

Having made such an impact on the fashion industry in

suggested by friends and relatives that she should pursue

such a short time, it was expected that 2009 would follow

a career in modelling, but Jourdan, who was insecure

suit, but this wasn’t so, owing to the fact that Jourdan fell

about her height and slim frame, initially dismissed these

pregnant at just 18 with boyfriend of five years and her

ideas, and dreamed of becoming an actress instead.

first love, Jordan Cummings.

“I kind of knew I was going to be someone. I wasn’t going to have a normal nine to five.”

“I found out at Heathrow Airport on my way to a family holiday in Jamaica. I didn’t know how to feel, I

However, a regular outing to the shops in 2006 would

just knew I had to deal with the situation. Telling my

be the start of Jourdan’s phenomenal modelling career.

mum was the hardest thing. She didn’t want me to go

Visiting the Hammersmith branch of Primark with a friend,

through her struggle.”

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21/12/2015 11:19

PHOTO: FEATUREFLASH / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

“ Not many British girls make a mark on the fashion world.

When she went to Paris Fashion Week she got standing ovations from the big fashion houses.”

SARAH DOUKAS STORM’S MD

Disease Association of America in order to raise awareness of the condition.

“Before Riley, I didn’t enjoy modelling at all. I just did it because I liked the money and wanted to continue my shopping sprees. But my son has put it into perspective for me – I have to do this, I want to, to set him up for life. I took it for granted that I had a great career in front of me, but now I realise my opportunities – the fact that I can provide for my family and be an She managed to keep her pregnancy under wraps until

ambassador for sickle cell disease and raise awareness.”

she was six months gone, revealing her baby bump on the

Seemingly indefatigable, the next few years saw

catwalk (where else) walking for Jean Paul Gaultier’s spring

Jourdan’s success steadily rise as she graced the covers of

2010 show in a specially-designed outfit at her seven-month

magazines across the world, appeared in two of Beyoncé’s

mark. Her baby, Riley was born on December 8 2009, and

music videos and landed huge modelling contracts on and

within 10 weeks of giving birth, Jourdan was back on the

off the catwalk. One of her personal highlights was walking

runway, walking for Aquascutum in a simple, belted trench.

alongside Naomi Cambell and Kate Moss at the London

Unfortunately for Dunn, the time surrounding the birth

2012 Olympics closing ceremony.

was complicated – her then-boyfriend was arrested and

“It was such a surreal thing. I had to just keep saying to

subsequently jailed for his involvement in drug dealing,

myself, ‘I’m in the Olympics, with Naomi and Kate. This is

landing him a 40-month term in a young offenders’ institute,

crazy.’ It was a really big honour.”

just a few weeks after the pair became parents. Suddenly

Alongside fashion, one of Jourdan’s other main passions

it seemed as if her mum’s fears about single motherhood

is cooking – but rather than just baking a few cakes for her

were being realised.

model mates, she’s worked with some high profile names

“I honestly believed I was going to marry him, I was young and naïve.”

to develop her culinary skills. When Jay Z discovered that Jourdan enjoys experimenting with new recipes as much

At six months pregnant, Jourdan discovered that her baby

as she loves working the runways, he invited her to host

had sickle cell disease, a severe hereditary form of anaemia

her own show on his Life + Times YouTube channel. On (the

where the red blood cells develop abnormally. Although

aptly titled) Well Dunn With Jourdan Dunn, she creates her

she knew it ran in her family, she has spoken out about her

favourite comfort foods with cameos from her supermodel

shock when he was diagnosed.

pals, and, more recently she filmed another internet foodie

“You never think your baby is going to get it, even if the odds are against you.”

series titled How it’s Dunn.

“It started as a way for me to connect to my fans and

Many may have fallen at the hurdles Jourdan was faced

introduce a side of myself that people didn’t know. I feel

with, but, as an ambitious teenager she decided to embrace

most comfortable in the kitchen. It is therapeutic and where

the opportunities she’d been given, ploughing herself into

I am most at ease. Plus, I LOVE food and cooking is my

her work and becoming an ambassador for the Sickle Cell

most favourite past time.”

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CELEBRITY

As well as her extra-curricular cooking activities, Jourdan

have to use that to your advantage by becoming a brand.”

stands out in the industry for many reasons, not least

Brand Dunn has certainly been seeing the fruits of her

because she has a no holds barred attitude to life, and in

labour – in 2014 she was the first black model to enter the

particular the modelling industry, often speaking out on

Forbes rich list, making a cool £2.4million from June 2013 to

issues others have shied away from.

14, and was one of only three British women, alongside Cara

Racism in the industry has always been something Dunn

Delevingne and Kate Moss, to appear on the list. Last year’s

has been vocal about. Early in her career, she observed that

list saw her again ranked in the world’s top paid models, and

there was a lack of black models on the catwalks, noting

with contracts with the likes of Maybelline and Burberry to

“London’s not a white city, so why should our catwalks

her name, she’s certainly become a household name.

be so white?” and, after gracing British Vogue’s cover in

“Designers are willing to pay dime for someone who

February 2015 (the first black model to have a solo Vogue

everyone recognises, and who will likely tweet a picture

cover) she told the magazine.

of herself backstage shooting a campaign. “You now

“It’s hard being a model regardless, and then being a black

have bookers asking ‘how many followers does she have

model. I have heard ‘oh we haven’t shown any black models

on Instagram?’ Because they know that these younger

this season’…it’s messed up. Another time, my agent told

models are experts in getting a brand’s message out to a

me ‘they don’t want any black models this season.’ I have

younger audience in a way that is seen as organic.” - Natalie

been very outspoken about it, but I feel someone needs

Robehmed, wealth reporter for Forbes.

to pose these questions to the people who can give the answer about why. There’s a lot more to be done.”

With a slew of celebrity friends (Cara Delevingne is her best friend; the pair even have matching tattoos), millions

Social media is where Jourdan is often most vocal about

of adoring fans and, perhaps more importantly, a constant

issues affecting her and her colleagues. In 2013, she was

stream of high-end fashion contracts, it’s hard to believe

dropped from walking for Dior in Paris, allegedly due to

Jourdan Dunn is just 25, and a single mother from London.

her chest size. Taking to Twitter, Jourdan lambasted the

But, perhaps that’s why she resonates with so many. She

designer to her millions of followers, letting them know

may have been in the fashion game for almost half her

exactly why she wouldn’t be spotted on the catwalk.

life, but industry insiders are tipping 2016 to be ‘the year of

“I just got cancelled from Dior because of my boobs! I

SO

Dunn.’ Watch this space…

love fashion…I’m normally told I’m cancelled because I’m ‘coloured’ so being cancelled because of my boobs is a minor.”

Social media is also one of the reasons Jourdan is so prolific and a household name. With 1.5million followers on Instagram and almost 300,000 on Twitter, she’s one of many models of this generation whose presence has been amplified through the use of social media channels.

“Being a model today is all about having a personality and other interests.

Social media gives models a platform – people can get a sense of who I am… before, models were only to be seen and not heard, but now [thanks to social media] we have a platform, we have a voice. People want to get to know us, to get to know our interests. I feel that you

“ I’m normally told I’m cancelled because I’m ‘coloured’ so being cancelled because of my boobs is minor.”

PHOTO: WALTERLAN PAPETTI

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00

21/12/2015 11:19

-

SO

PURE速 COLLECTION

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU At Pure Collection, you'll find effortless luxury to enjoy every day.

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THE LOOK

SO

INVESTMENT PIECE If you buy one thing this month, make it one of these gorgeous Amanda bags from Boden, priced at ÂŁ149

JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6

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THE LOOK

FASHION FORECAST

STYLIST AND IMAGE CONSULTANT CATHERINE DE CRÈVECOEUR FROM WWW.STYLEPOURMOI.COM GIVES US AN OVERVIEW OF WHAT WE’LL BE WEARING THIS YEAR. With the pre-collections trickling into our shops, you can already start thinking of warmer days ahead and a wardrobe to match. Whilst the mood is somewhat romantic, with plenty of ruffles, pleats and lace, there is also a strong sense of fashion individualism, giving us the power to personalise our look through bold prints and intricate designs. But mostly, this year, it’s about having fun and creating your own unique style with some key wardrobe essentials.

Asos

Jacket, £45

Clash of prints Considered an art for most fashionistas, clashing prints is a way to bring your look to life and into the new season.

Using bright and brash motifs by applying an effortless sense of organised chaos, it’s this year’s bold fashion statement.

Topshop

Blouse, £45

Jacques Vert Black skirt, £109

Pleats please An array of exquisite hand-pleated gowns made it on the runway for spring/summer. But the pleated trend had already made its comeback this winter with a cool, back to school midi skirt which has fast become a wardrobe must-have.

We say yes to pleats!

Navabi

White skirt, £153

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THE LOOK

SO

Michael Kors

Yellow dress, £200

La Redoute

Pink dress, £49

Romantic ruffles Show stopping peplums, flirty ruffles and frills in all their fancy were in abundance for the season.

A trend that is still going strong from Autumn/Winter’s nod to the Victorian era, the collections speak for themselves.

Topshop

Jumpsuit, £65

Chokers Chokers were the must-have accessory of choice for designers this season, and they took many forms: from intricate neckscarf/choker hybrids at Dior to oversized metallic ones at J.W Anderson. It's a necklace you can wear everyday, but still make a statement while doing so.

Cadenzza

Choker, £269

Netting Netting was used by many designers to cover (or reveal) parts of the body.

However beautiful and sensual this trend may be it is not one to be paired with jewellery if you want to avoid any snags.

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THE LOOK

Dune

Shoes, £99

Missy Empire Jacket, £42

Sport luxe Perfect for post-party mood season, the sport luxe trend is going nowhere and giving us an even better excuse to give our lounging wear a lift. Soft jersey separates are ideal for this look.

Moda In Pelle Clutch, £89.95

VERY

Dress, £69

Boss Orange Trousers, £160

The Clutch bag Shoulders were exposed wistfully and artfully everywhere from Oscar de la Renta to Erdem, Balmain and beyond.

Intricate shoulder cut-outs and slashed sleeves, revealing one or both shoulders proved to be one of the most popular trends for the season.

Off the shoulder Shoulders were exposed wistfully and artfully everywhere from Oscar de la Renta to Erdem, Balmain and beyond. Intricate shoulder cut-outs and slashed sleeves, revealing one or both shoulders proved to be one of the most popular trends for the season.

Pretty Pastels Pastels took to the runway during fashion week and we’re glad there will be more of this soft, pretty palette of colours to come as they are perfect for livening up any wardrobe.

Slouchy trousers While super-slim trousers will never go out of style, we’ll continue to see an influx of slouchy silhouettes take over this spring. Fluid, soft fabrics enveloping the body in an array of colours, perfect for a relaxed chic look.

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Lulu Guinness Bag, £99

French Connection Jacket, £130

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THE LOOK

SO

THE FRONT ROW

WE BRING YOU THE LATEST HEADLINES FROM THE FASHION WORLD

 NEW DIRECTION  In a shock move, British fashion designer Jonathan Saunders has announced he is to close his label, citing ‘personal reasons’. The Scottish designer, who has seen the likes of Madonna and Michelle Obama wear his creations resigned from his position as creative director last month, and has confirmed that the label will cease to exist after the spring/summer 2016 orders have been fulfilled. “It is not a decision that I take lightly and I am eternally grateful to my team for all their hard work and dedication,” Saunders says. “I look forward to working with everyone again soon on future creative projects.

● Fashion

reboot

They’re known as the festivalgoers musthave brand, and now Hunter have declared that they will be stepping back from the catwalk and focusing on festivals instead. The brand announced they are to “step away from the traditional fashion calendar” in order to “move the needle on how it engages with the customer and excites the industry”. The company plans to return to festival grounds for a global tour rather than showcasing at London Fashion Week as they have for the past two years.

✶ DAZZLING DESIGN Recent graduate, 24-year-old Hannah Jinkins has been announced as the winner of the H&M Design Award 2016.

Hannah, who graduated from the Royal College of Art, London in 2015, was selected from eight finalists by an international jury that included amongst others Kate Bosworth, Olivier Rousteing and Nick Knight. As the H&M Design Award winner, she receives a one year mentorship from H&M, a prize sum of 50,000 and the opportunity to develop her winning collection to be sold in selected H&M stores as well as online in autumn 2016.

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SO

THE LOOK

FASHION FORWARD Find out who’s been flying the flag for British fashion this year and who’s tipped to make it big in 2016

R

elocated Since 1989 the British

fashion and showbiz were in attendance

and celebrates the excellence and

Fashion Awards has seen the best

at the event, held at the London

creativity within our industry both at

talent in the industry celebrated for

Coliseum, including Lady Gaga,

home and abroad.”

their fashion contributions. Created by

David and Victoria Beckham and

the British Fashion Council, the body

Anna Wintour OBE.

behind London Fashion Week, the

“This annual event is fast becoming

In addition to some well-established fashion names, such as Stella McCartney and Karl Lagerfeld scooping awards,

recent awards saw over 800 industry

one of the highlights of the global

there was also a host of exciting new

figureheads from around the world

fashion calendar,” says Natalie

emerging talent recognised for their

cast their votes.

Massenet MBE, Chairman of the BFC.

contribution to the style scene. Read on

“The awards recognise the incredible

to discover who’ll be the big names

talent we are so fortunate to work with

you’ll be hearing about this year…

As well as the 45 nominees and 17 winners, some of the biggest names in

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Grace Wales Bonner at the British Fashion Awards 2015, in partnership with Swarovski (Mike Marsland, British Fashion Council)

EMERGING WOMENSWEAR DESIGNER

MODEL

THOMAS TAIT

This is the second time that Jourdan Dunn

Thomas Tait is a Canadian fashion designer

has picked up the ‘model of the year’

based in London. Since his graduation

accolade for her continued contribution to

from an MA in womenswear at Central

the British fashion scene. Dunn, who has

Saint Martins in 2010 he’s gone on to

been modelling since the age of 16 and is a

showcase at London Fashion Week and

regular on the catwalks across the world.

JOURDAN DUNN

helped to launch ASOS’ design venture ASOS Inc.

NEW ESTABLISHMENT DESIGNER

EMERGING MENSWEAR DESIGNER

MARY KATRANTZOU

GRACE WALES BONNER

initially studied architecture before moving

Having only graduated from Central Saint

in to the world of fashion. Her collections

Martins in 2014, Grace has been creating a

are now sold worldwide in over 200 fashion

buzz in the fashion industry. Her graduate

shops, including Selfridges, Harvey Nichols

collection Afrique won the L’Oréal

and Barneys. She also works with Adidas

Professionnel Talent Award, and after her

on a footwear and clothing collaboration

first season, she was invited to the V&A’s

featuring her prints.

Originally from Greece, Mary Katrantzou

prestigious Fashion in Motion programme.

EMERGING ACCESSORY DESIGNER

• The total weight of the British Fashion Award Crystal Trophies by Swarovski is over 15kg • 1,800 goody bags were distributed on the night which will included over 300 litres of label.m products and 4,300 MAC items • 12kg of loose Swarovski crystals make up The British Fashion Award logo on the red carpet • Over 6,000 members of the general public voted for the British Style Award • 5,000 Asia de Cuba canapés were served at the official BFA

BRITISH STYLE - FASHION INNOVATOR

after party at St Martins

FKA TWIGS

Mexican doughnuts

Lane, including 800 signature

JORDAN ASKILL

British singer, songwriter, dancer and

Jordan Askill was born and raised in

producer FKA Twigs (real name Tahliah

Sydney, Australia. In 2000 he travelled to

Debrett Barnett) regularly appears in

10,200g of M&S olives

London where he was an intern with

fashion columns for her creative outfit

were served

Alexander McQueen, and since then his

choices. This British Fashion Award (the

career has gone from strength to strength.

only one decided by the public)

He launched his debut jewellery collection

commended her for being an individual

at London Fashion Week in 2010 and now

who most embodies the spirit of British

uses concepts, such as 3D printing to

fashion and is an international ambassador

create unique accessories.

for London as a fashion innovator.

• 1,374 bottles of M&S Cava Heretat El Padruell and

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Jordan Askill at the British Fashion Awards 2015, in partnership with Swarovski (Mike Marsland, British Fashion Council)

BRITISH FASHION AWARD FACTS

Thomas Tait at the British Fashion Awards 2015, in partnership with Swarovski (Mike Marsland, British Fashion Council)

THE LOOK

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21/12/2015 12:43

Your eyes are the window to ;your soul They say the eyes are the window to the soul, but for this to be possible they first must be fully open! So it can be disheartening when the signs of ageing start to affect our appearance. Our eyes are often the most telling when it comes to letting on about our age, the skin around the eyes is some of the most delicate on the body and so it's no surprise that sagging upper and lower eyelids can add the years, making you look tired and can even affect make-up wear ability and more significantly, your vision!

Eyelid Surgery: At-a-glance

0

Duration

1-2 hours

1a1

Anaesthesia

Local anaesthetic

~.

Hospital Stay

None

Recovery

1

Addresses

Droopy /heavy eyelids and bags under the eyes

â&#x20AC;˘

~

week

If you have grown tired of sleepy looking eyes, heavy bags around your eyes or hollowing, then eyelid surgery provides an instant

solution to rejuvenate and restore younger looking eyes. For a more youthful, natural look then enquire to find out whether Bella You's total eye rejuvenation packages may be right for you, with interest free easy payments!

Mr. Amir Nakhdjevani MBBS. MRCS. FRCS (Plast.) is our lead consultant plastic surgeon at Bella Vou.

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THE LOOK

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

î pigeon detectives We regularly see stories about animals sniffing out their owners’ cancer, but an unlikely creature could hold the key to spotting the disease – pigeons. According to Cancer Research UK, pigeons have highly developed visual systems, and in tests carried out by Dr Robert Levenson from the University of California, he discovered that eight birds were correctly able to tell the difference between microscope images of benign and malignant human breast tissue over 80 per cent of the time. “Although pigeons are unlikely to be called upon to offer clinical diagnostic support, it does seem quite possible that their discriminative abilities may be turned to a useful purpose,” writes Dr Levenson.

CAT NAP Those who allow their pets to sleep in their rooms will be familiar with the regular night time disturbances their furry friends cause, but now researchers believe that letting your dog or cat share your bed will help you to sleep better. The Centre for Sleep Medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona discovered that their patients actually felt more secure and therefore slept better with a pet in the room, and that only 20% reported being woken in the night by their animals. “Many pet owners view companion animals as family members that they wish to incorporate into as many aspects of their life as possible,” write the authors of the study.

 FACING FACTS Women spend £549million a year on moisturiser, with purchases accounting for 59% of all skincare sales.

It’s part of our daily skincare routine, but now, a cosmetic dermatologist has claimed that we might be doing more harm than good. “Moisturisers are a widespread and silent traitor and an important contributor to skin disease,” says Dr Rachael Eckel, who claims that only 15% of us actually need to moisturise. “These are people who have genetically dry skin. They tend to not to have visible pores and have dry body skin, with conditions like eczema. The rest of us have normal skin, which doesn’t need a moisturiser.”

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GREAT hair dressing & beauty First floor Hoopers

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

~

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Soothing Body Oil /

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

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THE LOOK

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BEAUTY

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

ELIZABETH ARDEN

FLAWLESS START INSTANT PERFECTING PRIMER, £28 This silky, lightweight primer instantly perfects the look of the skin, smootheing uneven texture and diminishes the appearance of pores, fine lines and wrinkles, while imparting skin with a moisturised and radiant glow.

Flawless Start Instant Perfecting Primer is oil-free and noncomedogenic; the product blends smoothly into skin and is designed for all skin types and tones.

Featuring a triple blurring complex with light-diffusing technology, it blurs fine lines and pores and evens the look of the skin. www.elizabetharden.com

CLARINS

KORRES

WILD ROSE ADVANCED REPAIR SLEEPING FACIAL, £26 Recharge your complexion overnight, with this innovative product from Korres. Overnight, the cream improves skin texture, delivering softer, smoother and exceptionally radiant skin by morning. With wild rose, which is high in Vitamin C and other active ingredients, you’ll definitely be indulging in beauty sleep with this repairing skin treatment. www.marksandspencer.com

NATURAL GLOW EYESHADOW PALETTE, £33 Embrace the rose gold trend with the new limited edition natural glow palette from Clarins. These five wearable shades can be worn alone, or layered to take you from day to night. The handy dual-ended brush makes application easy too.

A must-have for pretty peepers this spring. Available from January 10. www.clarins.co.uk

CHARLES WORTHINGTON BAFTA EDITION VOLUME & BOUNCE EXPRESS BLOW DRY PRIMER, £6.99 There are few things more frustrating than waiting for your hair to dry, but this new product from Charles Worthington is set to speed things up. Not only does the primer speed up drying time, it also protects hair from 235 degree heat while adding shine and lasting volume without weighing hair down.

Available February www.boots.com

BENEFIT

POREFESSIONAL MATTE RESCUE, £21.50

This lightweight, water-based gel instantly overpowers shine and absorbs excess surface oil, leaving a naturallooking matte finish.

Containing diamond powder, this magically makes visible pores disappear so your skin is left looking smooth and even.

Available from January 30. www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk

BILLION DOLLAR BROWS

BESTSELLERS KIT, £49.50 Transform your brows with this collection of best-sellers, which includes the Universal Brow Pencil, Brow Duo Pencil, Smudge Brush and Brow Gel. Previously only available as a salon treatment, Billion Dollar Brows are now available for you to try in your own home, and the bestsellers kit is a great place to start. We especially love the brow gel, which offers a polished finish and keeps your eyebrows looking groomed at all times! www.boots.com

SOTHYS

ROUGE INTENSE LIPSTICK, £19 Nourishing and moisturising, this colour-intense lipstick is a beautiful, rich red – ideal for making a statement. Containing shea butter, complex of omega 3, 6 and 9 and pure pigments, it hydrates for up to eight hours, plus the colour is long-lasting too.

We especially like the velvet pouch the product comes packaged in. www.sothys-uk.co.uk

LAURA MERCIER

CANDLEGLOW SOFT LUMINOUS FOUNDATION, £35 Created with the aim to recreate the warm ambiance and flattering effect of the glow in a candlelit room, this new foundation from Laura Mercier is available in 24 shades and offers buildable coverage. Refreshing purified water gives the skin a boost of hydration that helps the foundation glide easily onto skin, while a blend of lightweight oils lock in moisture leaving skin balanced and soft. www.lauramercier.com

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Reassurance in a heartbeat

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

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

What scans are available?

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

Why choose The Wells Suite for your scan?

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

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

The Wells Suite

The Wells Suite Your health in safe hands

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01892 635888

www.thewellssuite.co.uk

22/12/2015 17:02

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

SO

DREAMS OF UTOPIA

January is the perfect time to relax and unwind after the busy Christmas period – and what better way to take it easy than with a revitalising spa day? To get you in the mood, we take a look at two local spas and therapy areas, which will leave you feeling utterly refreshed life. Facilities include an indoor Grecian-inspired pool, bubble tubs, hydrotherapy pool, 25 treatment rooms, various relaxation lounges and a host of therapists providing revitalising treatments from Temple Spa and ila. Guests can also opt for those finishing touches, including manicures and pedicures, and even book an appointment in our hair salon. There’s also an outdoor barrel sauna with bubbling hot tub and zen garden terrace, with four private cedar hot tubs, available to hire for up to two adults.

Utopia Spa

UTOPIA SPA AT ALEXANDER HOUSE HOTEL

Alexander House, Turners Hill, East

Utopia Spa is a destination in its

serene, personalised journey to relieve

01342 714 914

own right, taking guests on a

the stresses and strains of everyday

www.alexanderhouse.co.uk

Grinstead, West Sussex RH10 4QD

is able to provide all of the recognised treatments using their products, which are also available in the extensive retail area. Aromatherapy Associates, Clarins, Guinot, Jessica and St. Tropez are all represented.

Spa days, twilight spa evenings and residential spa breaks are also available with complimentary use of the two 20-metre heated swimming pools (outdoors during summer months only), hydro pool, whirlpool spa, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and ‘Technogym’ gymnasium.

Clients of Dreams can relax in the tranquil ‘Silks Lounge’ before or after treatments, and enjoy wonderful views over the Kent countryside, while enjoying

DREAMS AT EASTWELL MANOR

light refreshments.

Eastwell Manor’s extensive beauty spa

beauticians will provide numerous and

Dreams

and therapy area, Dreams, has 15

varied treatments using therapies to relax,

Eastwell Manor, Boughton Lees,

luxurious treatment rooms available for

de-stress, rejuvenate, refresh and beautify.

Ashford, Kent TN25 4HR

ladies and gentlemen alike. The dedicated and trained team of therapists and

Dreams is proud to have been appointed by numerous major product houses, and

01233 213 111 www.eastwellmanor.co.uk

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I

I

I :1

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EDITORIAL INTERNS We're looking to recruit experienced and enthusiastic candidates for our internships in Tunbridge Wells. You'll be a part of the editorial team, creating copy, coming up with ideas and also working closely with our digital team. Having an interest in fashion would also be advantageous.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS Have a clear interest in magazines, ideally educated to degree level with relevant qualifications in journalism or media. Have an excellent knowledge of Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding areas, including Sevenoaks and The Weald. Be self-motivated, organised and willing to help with any project,

WHAT WE OFFER • A great experience to add to your CV • Flexible working hours • Travel expenses If you would like to apply for these vacancies, please send your CV and a covering letter, together with a food news story (no more than 100 words) written in So's editorial style, and three suggestions for the magazine to cbond@markerstudy.com. Please also state your available start date and preferred duration.

,

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p59_SO TW_JAN16_Advert.indd 3

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22/12/2015 14:40

-

SO

Get

DNAFi t'

•

•• .At Knowle Grange Combining a DNA Test report, bespoke exercise & nutrition plan

YOUR SECRET RETREAT

FOR THE FUTUR OF YO SKIN.

"If you ore looking for somewhere to gym, swim ond relax in a private and friendly environment, then Knowle Grange is just for you" Membership: Gym : Sauna: Spa Days : Beauty & Holistic Treatments: Natural Spring Water Heated Pool : Personal Training: Classes

To find out more call:

or visit:

01892 750761 or 01892 750055 www.knowlegrange.co.uk Wadhurst Rd, Frant TN3 9EJ

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22/12/2015 11:48

eet our Consultant at our ree cosmetic surgjry event Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital will be holding a free cosmetic information evening with one of our top Consultant Plastic Surgeons, Mr Marc Pacifico. The evening will consist of drinks and canapes on arrival, an introduction to the Surgeon, followed by a complimentary 10 minute consultation where you will have the opportunity to talk to Mr Pacifico in private about all your cosmetic surgery questions. He will explain to you the procedures most suitable for you as well as the risks and benefits of surgery.

I

WHEN: Thursday 25th February TIME: 19:00-21 :00 WHERE: Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Fitness & Wellbeing Gym Knightspark Leisure Park, Knights Way, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3UW

The new you starts here - call today to book your place.

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

; ; Nuffield Health For the love of life速

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Hospitals + Gyms + Health Checks + Physio

21/12/2015 08:54

Post Baby

B

Cellulite reduction

Comfortable treatment

Visuable results

And body shaping treatment

for shaping thighs, abdomen & Flanks

in as little as one treatment

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

www.rtwskin.co.uk

01892 22 22 22 @rtwskin

rtwskin

support@rtwskin.co.uk

Roya l Tun bridge Wells Skin & Laser Clinic, Cobden Ho use Medical Centre, 25 Lo ndon Road, Tun b ri dge We ll s, Kent TNl lDA

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THE LOOK

SO

HEALTH KICK Make your new year a healthy one with these detoxifying products…

ELEMIS

JUST FOR TUMMIES

CELLULAR RECOVERY SKIN BLISS CAPSULES, £65 Who knew something so amazing could come from something so small? These little pods contain Moringa Oil which has 1700% more antioxidant power than any other oil, so after just a few days of use, your skin is visibly refreshed and replenished. Use the pink capsule containing rose absolute to revitalise the skin each morning, then use the green capsule with lavandula angustifolia for overnight cellular repair. www.elemis.com

LIVE BACTERIA SUPPLEMENT, £19.95 For anyone who suffers with IBS or stomach issues, these new bacteria supplements from digestive health specialist Linda Booth could be the answer to your problems.

Not only do they reduce bloating and abdominal pain, they also replenish gut flora and contain 4billion live bacteria. Great for settling the stomach too, these are a little wonder product. www.justfortummies.co.uk

PHD WOMAN

2 WEEK STARTER PACK, £19.99 Perfect for gym bunnies and those who have embarked on a new fitness regime for the new year, this kit has everything you need to give your workout a healthy boost. With protein supplements, meal replacement bars and a refreshing berry sachet, you’ll instantly notice a difference to the way you exercise, whether you’re looking to lose weight, tone up or get energised. www.phd-woman.co.uk

EXUVIANCE

BIONIC OXYGEN FACIAL, £60 If you have five minutes to spare, invest it in a quick treatment using Exuviance’s brilliant new facial in a bottle. The product bubbles on the skin, unclogging pores, brightening and refining. Molecular Oxygen is delivered into the skin by a triple oxygenating blend, while cucumber fruit extract cools and soothes. And, even better, because you don’t have to leave the comfort of your home for salon results, you don’t have to brave the January weather to get a gorgeous glow. www.exuviance.co.uk

BLOOM TEA

ULTRA CLEANSE MATCHA, £16.99 Just 1g of this powder is packed with over 1,000 antioxidants, so it’s pretty good stuff. No, it doesn’t taste delicious, but it’s definitely palatable, especially when mixed with juice or yoghurt. Naturally high in protein and fibre, a daily dose of this will leave your energy levels boosted, your skin glowing and can even aid in de-stressing. Keep a jar on your desk! www.bloomtea.co.uk

MURAD

DETOXIFYING WHITE CLAY BODY CLEANSER (£30) For radiant, youthful skin all over, this is the product you need in your shower.

The cleanser draws out impurities and detoxes the skin while ginger root extract stimulates circulation. Not only does this smell great, it really works – skin is left moisturised, healthy and free from winter dullness. www.murad.co.uk

PMD

PERSONAL MICRODERM, £150 Give your skin the ultimate detox with this amazing new bit of hand held technology. Flat discs deeply exfoliate the skin, while the appearance of fine lines, scarring and wrinkles are reduced. Using the same aluminium oxide crystals as medical spa treatments, it’s an affordable way to give yourself the ultimate facial.

Start with the training discs and work your way up – you’ll be amazed with the results and how quickly your skin is transformed. www.personalmicroderm.co.uk Available from January 4

VERTESE

BEETROOT, B12 & IRON COMPLEX 30 CAPSULES £9.49 Vegetarians and those who are iron and vitamin B12 deficient can often find it difficult to get the nutrients they need but with these supplements, which are suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets, you’ll be able to get everything in one daily dose. Containing beetroot, B12 and iron complex, energy levels are boosted and fatigue is reduced – just what you need to keep you going through January and beyond. www.totallynourish.com

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RECEIVE A

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

musculoskeletal conditions including back pain, arthritic and joint problems and sports injuries.

Right now we are offering free consultations to set you on the right path for your treatment.

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

01892 529059 OR VISIT:

www.horderhea Ith ea re.co.u k

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ADVERTORIAL

SO

FIT STEPS Walk your way to a healthier 2016…

IF YOU’RE DREADING hitting the gym

how a regular walking habit could modify

It’s because of this, as well as the multiple

this month to shed those excess pounds,

the lifestyles of many people…and walking

and accessible benefits of walking, that Dr

you may want to swap your gym

costs nothing but your time.”

Lordan is now calling for a campaign to

membership for some good walking shoes.

Although Government guidelines

promote it as an effective way to tackle

recommend that adults should be doing 150

obesity, rather than public health messages

Economics and Political Science (LSE) found

minutes or more of moderate-intensity

about healthy eating.

that people over 50, and women of all ages,

physical activity every week, there’s no

“I would like to see a walking campaign

who regularly walked briskly for more than 30

guidance on which activity is the most

targeted at people who currently do no

minutes at a time, had a lower body mass

effective – and it’s estimated that as many as

activity,” she says. “It would be fantastic to

index (BMI) and smaller waists than those who

80% of the UK population aren’t meeting the

see a campaign that lets people know that

say they favour other forms of exercise,

recommendations anyway.

every brisk step counts.”

New research from the London School of

including gym workouts, cycling and swimming. (Men under 50 had similar waist sizes whether they walked or went to the gym.)

WONDER WALKS So what is it about walking that’s so effective? A very big factor is that people who like to walk tend to do it very regularly, so they are more active overall - compared with non-walkers who, while they may say they do other forms of exercise, are possibly doing them far less frequently.

Previous studies have also found that walking can be far more effective – in terms of aiding fitness and weight loss, and warding off diseases - than people might think. And, as Dr Grace Lordan, who led the LSE research notes, people who take up walking tend to stick with it more than other fitness regimes.

“People are also more likely to get walking ‘right’, as compared to gym exercises - it’s easier to know if you’re working to a moderate level with walking than with other exercises,” Dr Lordan adds.

She stresses that, although any exercise is better than none, to achieve significant results, walking needs to be at a decent pace, to a level where you’re perspiring and out of breath, for 30 minutes, five times a week.

ENDLESS BENEFITS As well as helping with weight management, WORDS: LISA SALOMON/ PRESS ASSOCIATION IMAGE: THINKSTOCK PHOTOS

by taking up regular brisk walks, Dr Lordan points out: “Provided you don’t eat any worse, you could lower your cholesterol, blood pressure and risk of cardiovascular ill health, as well as improving your mental and physical health.

“Given that regular walking is an easier habit to adopt regularly than high-impact classes or complicated exercise regimes, I would have to say that we do underestimate JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6

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ADVERTORIAL

SO

EXPERT OPINION

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE ON YOUR HEALTH, BEAUTY AND WELLBEING

THIS YEAR, MAKE THE MOST POWERFUL RESOLUTION YOU CAN: I WILL LEARN TO LOVE MYSELF, ALL OF MYSELF, ALL OF THE TIME…

sought out. For many, it’s a background hum, and for many others it is more of a roar, leaving them frightened to take risks out there in the world. A belief that you may fail or trip up and the imagined painful fallout of that failure may leave you stuck and feeling unable to fulfill your potential.

The internal world of people that find it hard to love themselves may consist of constant self-criticism, frequent

FOR SOME OF YOU, loving

a profound respect for yourself. It

comparison of one’s own life to that of

yourself is something you do;

is a fundamental knowledge of

others, and never quite measuring up.

you accept your flaws, you

who you are, where you

Even success is diminished. Own your

strive to fulfill your potential,

come from and why you are

success, no matter how small it seems,

but you also understand

who you are. It is a knowing

be super proud and then bring that

that you are equal to all, but

energy to the next challenge. Small steps

there is no such thing as

have certain special qualities

perfection. When you look at yourself, you see the whole of you looking back and it still makes you smile.

For many of you, it’s hard – really hard – to look at yourself without a sense of

that are unique to you. No-one –absolutely no-one – on this Earth can

go a long way to increasing self-esteem.

So, each day this year, promise yourself that you are going to work on your

do you better

relationship with yourself; that you are

than you!

going to say nice things to yourself every

At the root of many a neurosis or

day; look in the mirror and promise

judgement, or that sudden urge to

psychological complaint is a deep belief

yourself that you will start to really take

change something (“If only I was… Then

that ‘I am not good enough’, a pervading

care of the internal you. You will nourish,

I would be acceptable”) and the goal

sense of worthlessness that perhaps

love and cherish all that you are as you

posts keep moving.

stems from events in childhood, at school

stand today. You may be surprised by the

or at home. Once the idea has taken root

changes that take place on the outside

in your psyche, evidence to back it up is

once you take care of the inside.

To be clear, this version of loving yourself is not the blown-up, narcissistic or arrogant behavior we can sometimes see around us, which is generally also a symptom of not feeling good enough.

What I mean here by ‘loving yourself’ is that calm self-knowing, an assurance from deep within that comes from having

Deborah Maloney-Marsden is a Psychotherapist and Counsellor based here in Tunbridge Wells www.deborahmaloney.com 0779 265 3870

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-

SO

cfiighfields 9ark -

AN EXCEPTIONAL VENUE -

Enjoying the stunning surroundings of the English countryside our estate offers couples the perfect natural setting for their wedding.

Our Exclusive Experience includes use of our formal gardens, sweeping driveway, lakeside reception area and marquee space in the upper paddock. Your guests will enjoy stunning views of our Georgian house and lake as well as the beautiful rolling countryside.

To ensure every wedding stays unique our estate is only available for a handful of dates each year and does not hold a wedding licence for ceremonies. From ÂŁ3,000 per wedding.

For more information, call Kelly Morphew, Estate Manager, on 07860 376083 or visit

www.highfieldspark.co.uk

ama Highfields Park Farm, Beech Green Lane, Withyham, Hartfield, TN7 4DB

Croham Hurst Golf Club CROHAM HURST l)ll

cw~ & CJuncti(m,; q;e/UU?!

Wedding Packages starting from ÂŁ51 per person Or tailor made packages to suit your taste and budget!

For more details, please visit our website - www.chgc.co. uk For a full information pack or to discuss your wedding reception please contact Val Wimhurst on 0208 657 5581 Croham Road, South Croydon, CR2 7HJ (please note we are also happy to discuss parties and other events) 68

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22/12/2015 10:31

WEDDINGS

SO

THE SECRET DIARY OF A BRIDE TO BE Our bride’s spirits have been dampened by the threat of some winter weather…

I EXPECT MANY of you have made

New Year’s resolutions. You might be about to embark on a new hobby, learn French or become a gym fanatic. I too, have resolved to do all of these things, but perhaps my biggest goal is to stop stressing so much – especially about the weather at my wedding.

Originally, I was looking to set a late summer/early autumn date, but, as you may recall from my previous ramblings, finding a venue not already secured before 2018 proved very difficult. As a result, we compromised and went for an out of season wedding. “The thing is, it can rain at any time of year,” we told ourselves, looking at the venue on a hot sunny August afternoon.

While this may be true, it is also true that at this time of year it rains a lot. For days at a time. The ground gets waterlogged and muddy. The wind reaches gale force levels and whips everything in to a frenzy and power cuts plunge everyone in to darkness.

Hoping to get some inspiration and seeking reassurance, we revisited our venue at the time of year we’re due to get married, but seeing it on a cold, wet wintry afternoon only confirmed the

need for heating facilities and perhaps some anoraks for the bridal party. In the summer when we booked it, we had visions of our guests mingling on the lawn, Champagne in hand, but now all I could envision was a damp squab of revellers huddled inside clutching mugs of tea. Not great for the wedding pictures, I think you’ll agree.

Having sold my soul to Pinterest a while back, I scoured pictures for inspiration and came across various wet weather shots with the bride and groom beaming at each other through umbrellas, their sprits not dampened in the slightest. For a brief while this did pacify me, but then I began to think about the practicality of these shots. Model couples posing in a downpour (probably in a studio) with stylist and makeup artist is one thing. Me, bedraggled in a wedding dress is another.

Comments from other people proved unhelpful too. In a meeting, a client piped up with “why would you want to get married then?!” while friends and family constantly plagued me with questions about where

everyone would go if it rained. I began to have nightmares about the supposed happiest day of my life becoming the soggiest. Were my dreams of designer heels about to be washed away and replaced with some wellies?

Perhaps, but the truth is, until the day, I won’t know. How often do you check the forecast in the morning and dress for sun, only to be caught up in showers a few hours later? If the forecasters can’t even get it right then what’s the point in me stressing when there’s still most of the year to go? I haven’t even worked out who’s going to be doing my hair yet, let alone stressing about it getting ruined in the rain.

So, this January, as well as all the usual stuff about dieting and becoming a better person, I’m going to stop caring about the future forecast. After all, I’ll still be getting married, rain or shine.

Although I might invest in some wellies and some wedding insurance, just in case…

Next month our secret bride discovers that bridesmaids are easier than groomsmen when it comes to wedding attire…

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1PlJ reathtaki ng ly different .. .

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Winter Warmer Wedding Open Afternoon Sunday 31 st January 12pm to 4pm

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HOTEL DU VIN TUNBRIDGE WELLS THE STAGE IS SET FOR YOUR PERFECT WEDDING Sublime. One word to express the greatest of all days. With exquisite private rooms and gorgeous suites, atranquil terrace and vineyard, heavenly dining and your own dedicated events organiser, there can be no more fitting astage as you glide elegantly from ceremony to wedding breakfast and beyond. Hotel du Vin Tunbridge Wells is the perfect venue for weddings and civil partnerships.

Join us for our wedding fayre on Sunday 21st February from 10.30am until 3pm with alarge range of exhibitors including photographers, florists, room decorators, spa therapists, DJ's and more.

FREE ADMISSION I COMPLIMENTARY GLASS OF BUBBLES GREAT OFFERS ON THE DAY I FREE PARKING

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A

SUNRISE. SENIOR LIVING

THE JOY OF EVERY DAY

At Sunrise, we spend all day every day with people who are living with dementia.

We understand how it affects everyone, including the family, and that enables us to help you in many different ways.

Our Reminiscence Neighbourhood is a separate, safe environment that offers a programme of personalised care delivered by our compassionate and skilled team of dementia experts.

Speak to one of our dementia team at any time and take a closer look at what makes Sunrise so special.

Call us on 01732 608065 to book your tour today.

Sunrise of Sevenoaks, 64; 70 Westerham Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2PZ

SunriseSevenoaks.co. uk

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ADVERTORIAL

SO

Grandparents lose contact with grandchildren following family separation and divorce

It is always upsetting to see your children separate from their partners. It is even harder to then be prevented from seeing your grandchildren as a result for no satisfactory reason

BY STEPHEN WILMOT In over 50% of marriage or relationship breakdowns where there are children involved, grandparents are often prevented from seeing their grandchildren for no good reason.

Unfortunately what’s often forgotten is the emotional damage and effect this has on the children, not only as a result of the breakdown of their parents relationship, but being isolated from loving and caring grandparents who could provide them with support and help during such a difficult time and with whom they have a close and loving relationship.

We meet many Grandparents who are often of the view that they “have no rights” regarding their grandchildren and feel therefore that there is nothing they can do about the situation. This in fact is not the case.

We are frequently asked what rights grandparents have when they have been denied the opportunity to spend time with their grandchildren through no fault of their own. The sad truth is that grandparents do not have an automatic right to seek assistance from the Family Court in this respect. However the Family Court does recognise recognise the invaluable role grandparents play in their grandchildren’s lives and there is therefore provision for grandparents to seek permission from the Court to make an application for an order that they are permitted to spend time with their grandchildren. It is very rare that the Court refuse a grandparent contact with their grandchildren and the Court will promote a meaningful and ongoing relationship, unless there is evidence to suggest that it would not be in the children’s best interests to do so.

If the Court are satisfied that it is in the best interests that the children see their grandparents, it will grant permission to make an application for a “Child Arrangements Order” in the same way a parent would which will ultimately, if successful, set out when the children spend time with their grandparents.

This Child Arrangement Order replaced the old ‘contact’ Order following new legislation which came into force on the 22nd April 2014. The Order sets out the arrangements regarding when a child or children spend time with their parents

or Grandparents. The Order requires the person with whom the children live to allow the child or children to visit the person or persons referred to in that order.

This may not only include time during the day, but may also include overnight stays including holidays, and other special occasions, for example birthdays.

If you are successful with your application for a Child Arrangement Order, the Court have power, if satisfied that the person with whom the children live is wilfully refusing to abide by the Order, to punish that person which may, in some circumstances result in imprisonment. The Court can also impose a fine or unpaid work (community service).

If all parties are agreeable it is possible to attend Mediation in order to try and resolve the difficulties without the need to resort to Court intervention. Mediation is a process where a trained Mediator in Family Law meet with the parties together or alone in order to explore whether or not the difficulties between the parties can be resolved and will assist in this process. Normally mediation takes place at regular intervals and can occur over a period of several months.

As well as mediation, there is also the Collaborative process available which is a client centred approach which focuses on finding solutions to family problems using specifically trained collaborative lawyers

working on a face to face basis.

At Keene Marsland , I am able to assist grandparents regularly assist grandparents who are experiencing difficulties in maintaining regular visits with their grandchildren.

If you are feeling isolated from your grandchildren as a result of a breakdown in their parent’s relationship I can advise and assist you with a view to resolving those difficulties whether it be via the Court process or an alternative to the Court.

If you require further information then please call us today on 01892 526442 , or email us at so@keenemarsland.co.uk today.

SO MAGAZINE READERS OFFER

Up until 31st January 2016, Keene Marsland are offering the first 10 new applicants the opportunity to meet with their expert Family Law Solicitor for an initial 30 minute FREE consultation to discuss the options available to you.

Choosing the right legal team is very important for you, so please do call today to take advantage of this offer – 01892 526442 or email – so@keenemarsland.co.uk Keene Marsland Solicitors, 6 Clanricarde Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1PH www.keenemarsland.co.uk

Keene Marsland is a trading name of Parfitt Cresswell. Parfitt Cresswell is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority . No 71480 JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6

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YES! SHOES FOR ALL CONDITIONS ROAD OR OFF ROAD

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Try something new or just have a refresher to start the new year

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New Year, New You

WE TAKE A LOOK AT THE TRENDS MAKING IT BIG LAST YEAR, AND HOW THEY’LL BE CHANGING FOR 2016…

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NEW YEAR NEW YOU

DATING THE OLD THE SIMPLE SWIPE

THE NEW MEETING YOUR MATCH

2015 was all about the dating app. Tinder, the application where

While there’s no sign of Tinder going anywhere fast, they have

users meet their match by swiping right for yes and left for no

recognised that some users are seeking more information before

saw a huge rise in users, with 1.6 billion swipes per day, and 26

they decide which way to swipe. Tinder have announced that

million matches per day. But, for 2016 are we demanding a more

they’re to introduce jobs and education information on the site, so

personal approach to online dating?

that users can ‘make more informed choices when deciding to swipe left, right, or even up – while also providing great conversation starters.’

Aside from Tinder, there has been a rise in interest-specific dating sites, so that users looking for a specific quality in a match can get there faster without the need to swipe. Dubbed the ‘Tinder for vegetarians’, www.veggievisiondating.com reached the finals at the UK Dating Awards recently and is a site specifically dedicated to vegetarians and vegans finding love.

For those looking for a fairytale romance, new site www. mousemingle.com has been set up by Disney devotee Dave Tavras, who once worked as an engineer at Disneyland in California. He created the site because there was no way to narrow down the searches to Disney-loving women within existing services.

SARAH BURGE, FOUNDER OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS BASED DATING SERVICE THE WWW.THEDATINGDIARY.CO.UK BELIEVES WHILE ONLINE DATING WILL GROW, WE’LL ALWAYS WANT LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT.

“It’s now perfectly acceptable

can’t believe everything you read on the internet. Now

to be truthful about where

Match.com and other leading dating sites are offering events

you met your partner, even if

so that singles can meet in a less contrived way. And that is

it’s on Tinder. But just a few short years ago it wasn’t and

what we do at The Dating Diary. We host singles parties for

couples colluded in the car to get the story right before

busy professionals, and I’ve been thrilled to witness many

introducing each other to the inner circle of friends and

developing love stories. Yes, they found us on the Internet,

family. Attitudes have changed dramatically as the industry

but it’s without the contrivance of a one-to-one blind date. It’s

grows, flourishes and becomes mobile and instant. Mintel

the familiar, intimate setting of a cosy, upmarket bar or

predicts the UK online dating market will grow from £165m

restaurant which provides the right backdrop and atmosphere

in April 2015 to £225m by 2019.

to allow eyes to meet across a crowded room and the chance

Trust is the biggest hurdle for dating services. How do you know if there is chemistry behind the profile? After all, you

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for that head-over-heels whammy that singles are secretly all hoping for.”

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NEW YEAR NEW YOU

SO

INTERIORS

Pink affects us physically like being wrapped in a warm blanket

THE OLD THE RISE OF ROUGE A good way to determine how we’ll be decorating our homes and which shades we’ll be adorning our walls with is to follow Pantone’s guidelines when they release their ‘colour of the year’. For 2015 it was Marsala, an earthy wine red, which we saw everywhere from cushions to catwalk fashion trends.

THE NEW EMBRACING NEW HUES

Rebecca Randall Colour psychologist

Not only have Pantone opted for pastel shades for 2016, for the first time they’ve included two colours of the year – Rose Quartz, a dusky pink, and Serenity, a pale blue. “Joined together, Rose Quartz and Serenity demonstrate an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue, reflecting connection and wellness as well as a soothing sense of order and peace,” says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of Pantone. For the year ahead, not only will you be seeing home accessories in pink and blue, the trend has transmitted to style and beauty, where the shades are prominent in makeup products and in Spring/Summer fashion collections.

REBECCA RANDALL, A COLOUR PSYCHOLOGIST FROM TUNBRIDGE WELLS OFFERS HER THOUGHTS ON THE COLOURFUL NEW TREND… “Pantone have chosen two

our times and these colours will evoke feelings of comfort and

colours for the first time which in

mental serenity. The pink will affect us physically like being wrapped

itself is intriguing. I would think

in a warm blanket; so feeling soothed. The blue affects us mentally

that they could not represent

and will evoke feelings of mental calm and serenity.

what they wanted in just one colour. They talk about balance

“The influence of these colours in interiors is already being reflected in a new trend for pastel shades. As a general rule, the

between the warm pink offering wellness and connection and the

paler the tint of colour the more soothing and the deeper the shade

cooler blue a sense of order and peace.

the more stimulating. If you are looking for serenity in your home

I feel that the colours represent an antidote to what is happening in

then these colours will be perfect but they will not suit everyone.

the world at the moment. Blue is serene and calming in the face of

The important part is to decide how you want to feel in a space

all the terrible tragedy in the world currently. The conflicts around

before choosing the palette. These colours would be well used in a

the globe make people feel anxious and upset and blue offers a

bedroom or living space where you want to feel peaceful and

serenity and calm in this turmoil. Likewise this soft warm pink is the

serene.”

colour of love and warm embraces. This too offers a comfort and support in these tumultuous times. Mindfulness is the buzzword of

Find out more about Rebecca’s next colour workshop at www.rebeccarandall.co.uk

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NEW YEAR NEW YOU

HAIR

FITNESS

THE OLD WAVE GOODBYE Dramatic dip dye hairstyles graduated towards a softer, ombre look where hair gradually gets lighter from root to tip during 2015. We also saw beachy waves and loose curls as the musthave look, with the straighteners packed firmly away.

THE NEW STRAIGHT TALKING It’s time to plug those straighteners back in, because the ‘undone’ do could be a thing of the past if the Spring/Summer catwalks are anything to go by. Poker straight hair is seeing a resurgence, and, if glossy locks aren’t your thing then 90s grunge is also going to be big – think slept in hair with added wax for a rocker look. Colour wise, ombre will be sticking around, but techniques like balayage (a sweeping or painting technique) will be bigger, so subtle highlights will blend for a

THE OLD KEEPING IT SIMPLE

sunkissed and natural look.

Body weight training was the big thing to hit gyms for 2015.

While it’s obviously been around for a while, more people started dropping the barbells and building up their strength using minimal equipment to tone up.

THE NEW TECHNOLOGY TRAINING According to the American College of Sports Medicine, who each year release a list of fitness predictions, the bandwagon we’ll all be jumping on this year is using wearable technology and fitness tracker apps to monitor our exercise levels and keep us motivated. With smart watches now a more mainstream technology accessory, keeping tabs on our training has never been easier.

TENTERDEN SALON

ED LUMSDEN, HEAD

HAIR AT 15’s,

TRAINER OF TWPT IN

CHARLOTTE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

TOMPSETT GIVES

TALKS 2016 FITNESS

HER TAKE ON THE

TRENDS…

NEW HAIR TRENDS… “We saw a couple of

“I would hope to see

colour trends emerge

a trend towards a

during 2015. Ombré hit the

approach to fitness. High intensity interval training,

different balayage/placement of highlighting techniques, and

strength training, body weight training, nutrition,

also clients wanting to achieve very ashy / grey looks almost

mobility, low intensity steady state training – they

edging into violet and blue tones. I can’t see the ombré look

all have a place and the fittest clients with the least

disappearing very quickly as it has dominated our industry

injuries will use a combination of these to get

so strongly. I think maybe people will again be more

results rather than rely on the latest trend.

adventurous with the colour combinations.

I think the grey and pastel looks are here to stay for a little

“When it comes to wearable technology, I think we will still go to our same favourite exercise class but

while longer also I think the ‘lob’ (long bob) is going to stick

we will now be able to track and monitor our

around as it’s so versatile.

performance in a way we have never been able to

More and more clients are looking for more subtle

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multi discipline

industry in a big way and really morphed into lots of

before. We will not only be able to track our

colouring, and cutting and colouring that sends a statement

exercise but also our sleep and nutrition which are

about their individual style.” www.hairatfifteen.co.uk

vital for recovery.” www.twpt.co.uk

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NEW YEAR NEW YOU

SO

FOOD

superfoods boasting all kinds of antioxidant and boosting properties are in demand THE OLD SPIRAL STYLE Last year we saw a huge boom in the trend for raw foods, and thanks to the likes of food bloggers like Ella Woodward and the Hemsley sisters, we were all buying spiralizers to master the art of courgetti and making brownies from sweet potatoes, while there was panic over a potential shortage of avocados.

Kale also dominated the news as the superfood we should all be eating, and by the end of the year it had found its way into beauty treatments as well as our lunchboxes.

THE NEW EATING FROM THE OCEAN Thankfully, avocados haven’t become extinct, so there’s a strong possibility they, quinoa and kale will still very much be the basis of what we eat in the coming year, but now that healthy food is here to stay, new superfoods boasting all kinds of antioxidant and boosting properties are in demand.

This year, liquids will be dominating food blogs and our fridges – everything from bone broth (a protein-rich liquid containing calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, sodium and potassium to help heal your digestive system and prevent insomnia, fatigue and anxiety) to maple water (the purest form of the sap that runs through maple trees containing antioxidants and minerals that can help control sugar levels and enhance thyroid function).

Kelp, or seaweed is another food that may be finding its way into our dishes, as it has been dubbed ‘the new kale’.

It’s already an ingredient in some Asian dishes and is used in beauty treatments such as facials, but in 2016 we’ll be adding it to smoothies and soups as well as having it in our sushi.

CLAUDIA WILLIAMSON, A TUNBRIDGE WELLS BASED NUTRITIONIST OFFERS HER ADVICE FOR HEALTHY EATING IN 2016…

“I would expect the trend for natural eating to continue.

possibly reduce breast cancer risk. A word of warning

People are becoming more aware of the downsides of mass

though – too much iodine is as dangerous as too little.

produced and processed food and choosier about what

Brown seaweed (i.e. kelp and wakame) contains the most

they eat and where they buy it from. This is great news for

iodine, while the red (nori) and green have a bit less (the

local farmers, butchers and other small merchants.

iodine content of the seaweed will depend on the water it’s

“Seaweed is best known for iodine which is vital for

grown in). By all means add seaweed to your diet – a

maintaining a healthy thyroid (a gland which helps to

couple of tablespoons a week should keep you and your

produce and regulate hormones). It is thought it can help

thyroid happy.”

regulate levels of oestrogen and oestradiol, which may

www.claudiawilliamson.co.uk

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NEW YEAR NEW YOU

DRINKING THE OLD CONTINENTAL CONSUMING For years, Champagne was the tipple on everyone’s lips (and in their glasses), but 2015 saw the phenomenal rise of its Italian cousin, Prosecco. Such was the demand for the fizzy beverage, there were concerns over the summer there would be a national shortage.

THE NEW HOME-GROWN GOODS If there is a Prosecco pandemic then we needn’t worry too much – we have a wealth of fantastic English wines produced right on our doorstep here in Kent, and as they continue to beat the French and Italians in taste tests and national competitions, there’s little doubt that England is fast becoming a wine destination.

From the announcement that Champagne house Taittinger has bought land in Kent to begin producing their own English fizz, to the phenomenal rise in sales of English wines (up 188% in just 12 months), 2016 is set to see more accolades awarded to local winemakers, and more of us than ever filling our glasses with locally produced drink.

MARK HARVEY, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF CHAPEL DOWN VINEYARD IN TENTERDEN TALKS TO US ABOUT THE YEAR TO COME…

gain momentum, we have seen phenomenal growth in “2015 was another exciting

the national press. This seems a pivotal moment for the

of fruit was superb and yielded our second largest

category with great innovation, talent and investment

harvest after the record-breaking 2014 vintage. We

coming in to the industry and a growing awareness and

released a number of new products including England’s

acceptance by the trade and consumers. It is also great

first skin contact white white, our Chapel Down Orange

news for the industry that the Champenois have

Bacchus 2014, and one of the first Blanc de Noirs English

recognised the quality of English sparkling wine and we

sparkling wines. We were also awarded three gold

are particularly pleased to hear that Taittinger have

medals for our wines in prestigious global competitions.

invested in Kent!”

“Support for the English wine industry continues to

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the on-trade this year coupled with increased publicity in

year for Chapel Down all across the business. The quality

www.chapeldown.com

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COMMUNITY LEISURE

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ADVERTORIAL

Davina McCall and Ed Lumsden

GET FIT WITH DAVINA AND TWPT

We catch up with Ed Lumsden, head trainer at TWPT, and find out about his latest fitness DVD with Davina McCall, how to get amazing abs and what goes on at a personal training gym SO, WHAT IS THE NEW DVD ABOUT?

We’ve put together an amazing new DVD to help you get fit, lose weight and tone up. It has sections for fat burning, toning, core strength (abs), a HIIT workout and even a boxing section. They all work great on their own if you’re pushed for time, but if you fancy a really tough workout, you can put them together in combos.

DOES IT REALLY WORK?

Yes, of course. We use all the latest scientific research and training methods 84

on our DVDs. This gives people at home the chance to train using all of the secret weapons a top personal trainer will use in their sessions. We had amazing feedback from last year’s DVD from people who have totally changed their shape just by changing the way they train.

advanced exercises for people who want more of a challenge. We’ve also got an amazing 21-minute fitness challenge, which is a CV, strength, weights, core and HIIT workout all in one.

HOW IS TWPT DIFFERENT FROM A GYM?

WHAT’S IN THE DVD?

We’ve really stepped it up this year to build on everything that was in our last DVD, 7 Minute Fit. We still have seven-minute workouts on there, but each one has a three-minute booster with

We are a dedicated personal training gym, which means you have the full attention and guidance of a personal trainer every time you work out. It’s the most effective way to train and great fun too.

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ADVERTORIAL

SO

Left to right: Dan, Jon, Ed, Sam and James

HOW TO GET ‘DAVINA ABS’ TWPT Head trainer Ed Lumsden is an abs specialist. Here are his top tips for getting that flat, defined look we all want!

1. Get your nutrition right - No crash diets, fads, supplements or complicated calorie counting. My approach uses nutrition to get the bodyfat down first and foremost to get the best definition.

2. Train smarter, not harder – It’s amazing how much harder your body will work when you isolate muscles effectively and perfect your technique.

This is especially true of your abdominal muscles.

3. Hit the lower abs – I see a lot of people that have managed to get excellent strength and tone at the top of their abs but not the bottom. This is just down to doing completely the wrong exercises - just a few sessions can turn that around and start to get the lower part of the tummy looking flatter and more defined.

WHAT IF I’M NOT VERY FIT?

You will be fine here! We know gyms can be intimidating, so we have created a friendly, motivational environment to workout in. If you’re not that fit, we start you off gently, and within four to six weeks, you will feel a massive difference.

WHAT SORT OF TRAINING IS BEST FOR ME?

We have six trainers here at TWPT, all with their own specialties and their own ways of training. I honestly

believe they are the best at what they do, so we have every angle covered. I meet with all new clients first and try to make sure they are matched up with the best trainer for their needs.

HOW DO I GET STARTED?

Just give us a call or email and we’ll arrange a time for you to pop in and have a look around. Once we’ve had a chat about what you want to get out of your training, we can put together a plan and get you started!

TWPT is right next to the station in Tunbridge Wells. If you want to know a bit more, just give them a call on 01892 545 400, email info@twpt.co.uk or check out the website for more details at www.twpt.co.uk

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ALL THE NEWS THAT MATTERS, LOCAL, NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL

e

/timesoftunbridgewells

@TimesofTW

U

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS

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(m

~

/company/times-of-tunbridge-wells

....,_

.... www timesoftunbridgewells.co uk

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

GET WITH THE TIMES

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EVENT

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SOCIAL AWARD INTRODUCTION Respected members of the business community gathered alongside representatives of the borough council to mark the launch of the Royal Tunbridge Wells Business Awards at The Hide Out restaurant. The new awards, run by the Times and So’s parent company One Media, seek to promote a diverse range of companies within the borough and surrounding areas, many of which may otherwise go unnoticed.

“Something like this is a fantastic way to recognise the good work done by thousands of businesses in the borough in their respective industries,” says awards judge Darren Austin, whose business Synergee is a well-known accountancy firm in Tunbridge Wells. “I was delighted to be selected as a judge for these awards, especially when I look at the calibre of the other judges.” www.tunbridgewellsbusinessawards.co.uk PHOTOS BY CRAIG MATTHEWS

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MADDISONS

- - - - R ES ID ENT I A L

Excellence is not a skill. It's an attitude.

Estate Agency of the Year Awards 2015

MADDISONS

- - - R ES I DE N T I AL

~

THE SUNDAY TIMES

THE. &TIMES

"Maddisons is a truly dedicated estate agent with their client's best interests at the forefront of all they do. We dealt with Deborah, who is extremely energetic, friendly and experienced, and ensured the whole "sales process" was made easy. She assessed the house, advised a sensible price I was happy with, advised on how to present the house in the best possible light, and ensured the viewings were efficiently conducted to a sensible group of potential buyers. I believe she is the best estate agent in the south-east." Mr \,Vatson To see our five star rating in more detail and other kind words from delighted sellers and buyers, please visit www.rateragent.co.uk : the leading independent estate agency review site where you can rest assured that all testimonials have been checked and verified.

Expect the exceptional Royal Victoria House, 51-55 The Pantiles, Royal Tunbridge Wells, KentTN2 5TE Telephone: 01892 514100 Email: info@maddisonsresidential.co.uk

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SOCIAL LADIES WHO LUNCH Over £1,200 was raised when the Kent and East Sussex Lady Taverners held their annual fashion lunch at the Spa Hotel in Tunbridge Wells. After a drinks reception, guests enjoyed a three course lunch, before a style showcase from Eurobe Fashions. Among those in attendance was TV actress Jenny Hanley, comic and dinner speaker Bob “the cat” Bevan MBE and John Taylor, TV rugby commentator. After the fashion show guests were invited to browse stalls of clothes and accessories and pick up some updates for their wardrobes.

PHOTOS BY CRAIG MATTHEWS

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EVENT

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SOCIAL WALL OF FUN Climbing enthusiasts scaled the walls in excitement when the Karma Climbing Centre was officially launched last month in Tunbridge Wells. During the day, guests, guided by the professionals enjoyed lessons and climbing demonstrations, before the evening celebrations began with around 150 guests attending for a party with food and drink from the centreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cafĂŠ.

PHOTOS BY CRAIG MATTHEWS

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22/12/2015 09:01

BESPOKE KITCHENS CRAFTED

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Kitchens - Joinery - Furniture

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www.mountshill.com

22/12/2015 12:59

EVENT

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SOCIAL STAGE CELEBRATION The Stag Sevenoaks celebrated the launch of their annual pantomime Peter Pan with a star-studded after party bash.

Guests were invited to celebrate the launch and meet the cast which included Boyzone’s Shane Lynch, EastEnders’ Jamie Foreman, Ben Ofoedu from 90’s chart toppers Phat’s and Small and fellow 90’s pop star Lolly, aka Anna Kumble.

Guests included the Mayor of Sevenoaks, Cllr Stephen Arnold, theatre critics and supporters of the Stag, who enjoyed complimentary canapés courtesy of Wagamama and Peter Pan themed cupcakes from local bakers Cakes by Penny and Sue.

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EVENT

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

RETRO REVIVAL

STUART KIRK/TENTERDEN PHOTOGRAPHY

Lovers of vintage clothes and unique finds flocked to Tenterden High Street when Pilgrims Hospices opened their exciting new Frocks ‘n’ Stock store. The shop, which sells pre-loved and retro clothing and homeware saw crowds of customers turn out for the grand opening. Cutting the ribbon was Ann Robertson, founder of Pilgrims Hospices, who gave a speech on the work the charity does and the idea behind the store’s concept. www.pilgrimshospices.org

TUESDAY TUNES

GOLDEN YEAR It’s a year since Café 1809, founded by Dame Kelly Holmes, opened its doors and burst onto the café scene in Hildenborough, and to celebrate, Kelly and her team held a special anniversary event.

As well as plenty of delicious food offerings, during the day there was also face painting, live music and the launch of Active Soul – a free membership club created to bring together likeminded people who are interested in nutrition, wellness and physical activity.

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The Ruby Tuesdays, Tenterden’s premier singing group put on another spectacular show when they performed Tinseltown, taking to the stage to perform some of the biggest Hollywood hits, including songs from James Bond, Grease and Chess.

As well as joining in with their favourite tunes, during the evening, guests enjoyed also food and drink and took part in a raffle.

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21/12/2015 15:45

EVENT

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DROPPING IN

STUART KIRK, TENTERDEN PHOTOGRAPHY

After losing her aunt to breast cancer, seven-year-old Helena, who attends Lamberhurst primary School joined with other pupils to raise money for the Pickering Cancer Drop In Centre, where her aunt had visited. Polly Taylor of Pickering visited Helena and her class to give a talk and to thank them for their help. The children were also presented with a t-shirt and badge from Signal UK to thank them for their efforts.

BAYHAM BALL THE upper classes graced the stately Bayham Hall last month to take part in a Downtown Abbey themed ball in aid of the Anthony Nolan charity. Dukes, Duchesses, veterans of the Great War and even the ‘help’ all dug deep to raise over £12,000 for the charity which helps those with blood cancer. The inspiration behind the ball was Poppy Bobbetts, 16, who last January became seriously ill from Aplastic Anaemia, a form of cancer which only a suitable bone marrow transplant can cure. With no family member eligible, Anthony Nolan managed to match Poppy with donor Jacques Van Niekerk from the United States, who spoke of the procedure as a guest speaker at the event.

KITTED OUT The superstar players of Crowborough Athletic Youth FC’s Under-7 age group have yet again been supported by SLM Vauxhall in Tonbridge, who, as part of the Vauxhall Youth Football programme has provided the team with a brand new kit and accessories worth up to £500 for upcoming tournaments. As a volunteer driven club, Crowborough Athletic FC relies on support from the local community and businesses. “Wearing the club’s kit is really important to the children as it gives them a huge sense of pride,” says Team Manager, Sharon Hammond.

“It’s fantastic that businesses like SLM Vauxhall support us, as it means we can save money on kits and equipment and invest in other areas to make the games the best possible experience for the children.”

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

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BSR BESPOKE CHARTERED

ACCOUNTANTS

21/12/2015 09:25

BUSINESS

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

expansion plans

A London-based tax advisory firm has expanded its private client practice with the acquisition of a Wealden accountants.

Charter Tax Consulting, which also has offices in Goudhurst, has taken on Mark Howard & Co, formerly based in Crowborough. The expansion sees Mark join Charter’s founder, Janet Paterson, s a director and major shareholder in the enlarged business, which in turn will facilitate further growth. Mark comments: “I am delighted that I have teamed up with Charter Tax. I am very much looking forward to growing what is already a very well-recognised practice over the coming years.” www.charter-tax.com

green garnering Things are looking up for a local landscaping company, which has won a prestigious national award. Linden Landscapes in Eynsford received a 2015 National Landscape Award in association with Horticulture Week, for its Sevenoaks garden in the Garden Construction category, sponsored by Europlants. The awards, which are run annually by the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI), pay tribute to landscape designers and contractors who have demonstrated exceptionally high standards of professionalism and skill. Managing director Mick Callahan says: “We are delighted to have received this award from BALI, adding to the five we have won in previous years.” www.lindenlandscapes.co.uk

NEW STARTERS

WINNING STREAK

It’s been another successful year for Hamptons International, which was named Best Large Agency for the fourth consecutive year at the Estate Agency of the Year Awards 2015. Held at the Lancaster London Hotel in association with The Sunday Times and The Times, the event is recognised as one of the most prestigious in the industry calendar and attracted stiff competition from agents across the country.

Judges commented: “Hamptons International is a leading residential property company, which offers unrivalled customer service from committed and inspired people.” Hamptons has offices in Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells. www.hamptons.co.uk

Times are changing for a South East-based law firm. Warners Solicitors, which has offices in Tonbridge and Sevenoaks, has been joined by Philip Raggett, who returns to the firm as a partner in its private client team. Elsewhere, two associate solicitors have been promoted to partners, namely Gail Hall, who works alongside Philip in the private client team, and Russell Brinkhurst, who specialises in corporate and commercial work. Senior partner Mark Rosser comments: “We are delighted to promote Gail and Russell to the role of partner, and to welcome Philip back to the firm.” www.warners-solicitors.co.uk

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We build our mortgages around you All homes are different. The same applies to the need for home financing. Therefore we offer individual and flexible solutions for all your mortgage needs and requirements. We can find a financial solution to suit your needs whether buying a new home or remortgaging .

Nigel Baldwin - Individual Banking Manager Tel: 01892 547756 email: niba02@handelsbanken.co.uk

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

www.handelsbanken.co. uk/tunbridgewells

Handelsbanken

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

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79 Tonbridge Road , Hildenborough, Kent, TN11 9BH

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22/12/2015 11:37

Your legal team For You, Your Family & Your Business As an innovative firm of solicitors in Uckfield, Dawson Hart serves individuals and businesses on matters ranging from employment law and equine disputes to matrimonial and mediation.

Nick Stockley is a Commercial Litigation and Insolvency Specialist Solicitor and an Accredited Mediator at Dawson Hart

“small” debts of under £5,000. Bankruptcy

However, the county court route gives the

action is now, in accordance with the Court’s

unscrupulous debtor the opportunity to drag

wishes, less likely to be used as a debt

out a claim.

recovery tool. If you are owed less than £5,000

The court process can be both daunting and

then your only option is to sue the debtor in

frustrating for non-lawyers, but more people

the county court.

will now be forced to try their luck with the

The small claims court process is designed to

court system. The increase in the bankruptcy

be non-lawyer friendly where the courts want

threshold will, inevitably, stop the

THE SMALL CLAIMS COURT OR BUST

parties to bring and defend their claim

unscrupulous creditor bullying the debtor to

It is now the case that you can only be made

without incurring legal costs.

pay when there is a genuine dispute but it

bankrupt by a creditor if that creditor is owed

may place more pressure on an already busy

£5,000 or more of undisputed debt. The limit

court system.

went up from £750 on 1 October 2015

At Dawson Hart we can provide expert

following a change in legislation. This means

advice to you, either if you are owed money

that creditors who want to try to force debtors

or you are facing financial pressure and

to pay by using the bankruptcy process must

threats of bankruptcy.

be owed over £5,000 and the bankruptcy

Please contact Nick Stockley on 01825 762281

process is no longer available to try to recover

or e-mail njs@dawson-hart.co.uk

applications.

Victoria Regan is a director at Dawson Hart and head of our Employment team

direction. However, there are critics of the

David Cameron recently cited that people

scheme given that it will only apply to the

with white sounding names are nearly twice

initial stage of the recruitment process and

as likely to receive job call-backs as people

the risk of recruiter bias will remain at

with ethnic sounding names.

interview stage.

In order to prevent “unconscious bias”,

There are also other areas which may need

applicants names will be removed from CV’s

to be reviewed such as age, education and

and job applications so that employers will

social background in order to tackle recruiter

be unaware of the names of the people who

bias more fully and therefore, further elements

they are selecting as part of the interview

to the CV airbrushing process may follow.

screening process. It is hoped that the

For all employment advice please call

the recruitment process, David Cameron has

scheme shall provide more opportunities for

Victoria Regan on 01825 762281 or e-mail

announced that private and public-sector

black and ethnic minorities as well as to

vxr@dawson-hart.co.uk

organisations, have agreed to recruit on a

applicants disadvantaged because of their

“name-blind” basis. Large employers such

gender, ethnicity or marital status.

“BLIND RECRUITMENT” – WHAT’S IN A NAME? In an attempt to address discrimination in

as KPMG, Teach First, HSBC, Deloitte, Virgin

The aim is to tackle race-related

Money, BBC, NHS, Learndirect and local

discrimination and to ensure that candidates

government shall recruit all graduates and

are recruited based on skill and ability, which

apprentices on the basis of name-blind

is obviously a positive step in the right

Legal advice for you, your family and your business.

Monday - Thursday: 8am-6pm Friday: 8am-5pm Saturday: 9am-12pm

www.dawson-hart.co.uk This information has been prepared for general interest and it is important to obtain professional advice on specific issues and for your own circumstances. Whilst we believe the information to be correct at the time of print, we cannot accept responsibility for loss occasioned by any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of this material.

DawsonHart FP Jan16.indd 1

22/12/2015 17:20

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BECAUSE NEWS IS SEVEN DAYS A WEEK, SO ARE WE… Times of Tunbridge Wells is now open seven days a week for all enquiries. So whether you’ve got a story to tell or would like to find out how we can help your business grow, you can now call us any day of the week.

Open for business and the community: Mon to Fri: 8am – 8pm | Sat & Sun: 10am – 4pm Call: 01892 779650 Email: info@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk Web: www.timesoftunrbidgewells.co.uk

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22/12/2015 15:37

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SEVENOAKS:

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

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

TUNBRIDGE WELLS:

www.thywill.co.uk

01732 605411 01892 278171

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21/12/2015 09:34

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21/12/2015 09:35

FOOD

SO

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

NEW EATERY

COUNTING CHICKENS

haring ahead The Kentish Hare in Bidborough has only been open in its current form since last year, but it’s already gaining recognition nationally. The establishment, run by Chris and James Tanner has reached the shortlist for the prestigious Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs 2016 awards, and is up against two other venues for the Newcomer of the Year accolade.

The awards recognise the best newcomer, the best front-of-house manager and the best business innovation, and winners be announced later this month. The Kentish Hare will have its food offer, service and overall business judged by the Publican’s Morning Advertiser’s food team and guest judge David Hancock.

After more than a year of uncertainty, and with rumours circulating on social media, it has finally been confirmed that Nando’s will be coming to Sevenoaks, although no date has yet been confirmed. Bligh’s Meadow, where there was a Marks and Spencer store, will apparently play host to the popular chicken chain.

Many local residents joined a campaign, initiated

by Sevenoaks man Fraser Munro, in favour of introducing the Portuguese eatery to the area following speculation that the alternative replacement was due to be a ‘pound shop’ style store.

MARKET LEADER A local man is the inspiration for the new award to be presented at the Taste of Kent Awards this month.

Former mayor of Tunbridge Wells, Mike Rusbridge, who passed away last year, was a keen and inspiring baker and stallholder at local markets.

The Kent Farmers Market Association is contributing an award for Kent’s Young Food and Farming Entrepreneur so that the memory of Mr Rusbridge might inspire the potential in up and coming young bakers. The Mike Rusbridge Award is to recognise the contribution of young people to our local food economy. Mr Rusbridge was an accomplished baker and held stalls at Shipbourne, Penshurst, Hildenborough and Yalding for over 10 years. Finalists for the award will be selected this month.

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

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

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

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'BESPOKE PLANNING & EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

IN A UNPARALLELED SETTING 01732 458261 • INFO@STJULIANS.CO.UK • WWW.STJULIANS.CO.UK

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22/12/2015 15:39

--* * *

* * *-

ABERGAVENNY ARMS SINCE 1450 Our Menu is a mixture of traditional and modern British cuisine. Fresh Colchester oysters and Orkney mussels are on offer whenever in season. Our food is freshly prepared on the premises and our ingredients are locally sourced wherever possible .

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OPENING HOURS 1lam to 11pm Monday to Saturday & from 12pm Sundays BOOK A TABLE TODAY 01892 750 233 I 750 933 FIND US: The Abergavenny Arms is an imposing 15th century coaching inn located on the

A267 Main Road between the spa town of Tunbridge Wells and Eastbourne.

WEB: www.abergavennyarms.co.uk

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EMAIL: abergavennyarms@outlook.com

22/12/2015 11:10

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For All Your Cooking Requirements

01892 538 915 â&#x20AC;˘ info@trevormottram.co.uk 33-41 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TE www.trevormottram.co. uk

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GRUB GUIDE

FINE DINING Our guide to places you must try in 2016

GRAVETYE MANOR

G

ravetye has been awarded a Michelin star 22 times over the last 40 years and offers a superb selection of gastronomic delights. From the unhurried classical dining in their

atmospheric wood panelled restaurant to leisurely lunches in the garden, no-matter what time of year, you’ll love eating here.

Vowels Lane West Hoathly RH19 4LJ

CAMDEN QUARTER

C

01342 810 567 www.gravetyemanor.co.uk

ontemporary, relaxed dining in the heart of Royal Tunbridge Wells. Camden Quarter’s food style is eclectic modern

European, with a monthly changing menu and local produce. Try their artisan beer selection and delicious cocktails too.

28 Camden Road Tunbridge Wells TN1 2PT 01892 544 522 www.camdenquarter.co.uk

THE CAMDEN ARMS HOTEL

A

n independent, family run business in the heart of

RENDEZVOUS

Pembury, the Camden

Arms offers gastro-style meals in a rustic-chic setting. With lunch and dinner main courses from £8 and starters from £4, their food is not only lovely, it’s great value for money too.

High Street Pembury TN2 4PH 01892 822 012 www.camdenarms.co.uk

I

ndulge in some classic French food at Rendezvous.

With affordable lunch menus, delicious evening offerings and an extensive wine list, this cosy

independent restaurant will capture the heart of any diner who ventures inside.

86 Camden Road Tunbridge Wells 01892 525 830 www.rendezvoustw.co.uk

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GRUB GUIDE

SO

Whether it’s a relaxing meal for the family, a romantic dinner for two or a lunch with friends you’re after, this area has an abundance of wonderful eateries to experience. If you’re looking for somewhere new to dine this year, then head to one of these restaurants. Or, make it your New Year’s resolution to try them all…

THE RIVERSIDE

H

ead to The Riverside in Lamberhurst for some exceptional fine dining, using locally sourced ingredients. With lamb from Sissinghurst Castle,

fish from Hastings and vegetables from farms around Kent, all of this food is fresh, tasty and exquisitely presented.

School Hill Lamberhurst TN3 8DQ 01892 890 277 www.theriverside.uk.com

CINNAMON SQUARE

T

THE SPA HOTEL’S CHANDELIER RESTAURANT his Indian restaurant boasts a great balance of popular offerings and a notable selection of exclusive

S

et in the grandeur of the Spa Hotel, the Chandelier restaurant currently holds two rosettes from the AA and specialises in

preparations for the more seasoned diner. From

classically based modern British cuisine. Using

masalas to madras and everything in between,

fresh, local ingredients the menus change

all of their dishes are skilfully prepared from

frequently offering a fresh approach to fine

fresh primary ingredients.

dining.

Rings Hill Hildenborough Tonbridge TN11 8LX

Mount Ephraim Tunbridge Wells TN4 8XJ

01732 832 944 www.thecinnamonsquare.com

01892 520 331 www.spahotel.co.uk

TUNBRIDGE WELLS HOTEL

T

he Eating House at the Tunbridge Wells Hotel is a relaxed, informal dining room serving food all day, seven days a week. This restaurant serves

everything from English and continental breakfasts, light lunches and afternoon tea to a romantic formal dining experience.

58 The Pantiles Tunbridge Wells 01892 530 501 www.thetunbridgewellshotel.com

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SO

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Not available anywhere else.

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To join, simply email privilege@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk with the following details: name, surname, postcode, year of birth and your email address (or apply online at: www.timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk/privilege-clubl)

Terms and conditions: By supplying us with the above details, you are agreeing to receive communications from One Media & Creative UK Ltd, publishers of Times ofTunbridge Wells and So Magazine. Your data will be kept strictly secure and never given or sold to any third party.

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

(£2.70). We were not disappointed because the food was colourful, flavoursome and filling. For the more adventurous eaters, there are all the chicken, lamb and prawn favourites we expect from an Indian menu, including some incredibly spicy dishes. Nothing on the menu appeared to be particularly innovative, but that’s not why we Brits love Indian restaurants.

PRICE

Sonar Gaon is the cheaper of the two Indians in Wadhurst, but the food is equally appetising. Our bill came to around £40 for papadums, mains and a healthy slosh of wine and lager, and we left feeling very full and satisfied. All in all, the right price for what you get.

STAFF

Here’s where we send one of our resident foodies into a local eatery and they tell it like it is. This month Undercover Eater visits the Sonar Gaon in Wadhurst INTRO

DÉCOR

My partner surprised me on my birthday with the offer of buying me dinner at the restaurant of my choice. Both of us love Indian food, so I decided he could treat me to a curry at our local Indian restaurant. There are two Indian restaurants in Wadhurst, one of which is our regular takeaway supplier, the other is the topic of this Undercover Eater.

Not exactly the most chic and stylish decoration you’ve ever come across. The tables are fairly spaced out across two different levels of dining floor, which is great for privacy while you eat, but the chairs are about as comfortable as wooden blocks. It is imperative that I mention the giant mural of the Taj Mahal behind a perspex screen along the side wall of the main dining area. It is quite something to behold and adds a certain amount of ‘character’ to the place.

LOCATION

Sonar Gaon is located on High Street, Wadhurst, nestled among a bank, a pharmacy and a dental practice. There are a couple of cafés and pubs, but there is limited choice in terms of restaurants, which works in favour of the two Indian eateries. The residents of the village can easily access the Sonar Gaon and there is ample parking nearby.

For a Tuesday night, you can’t really expect a quiet village restaurant to be busy. And it wasn’t. We were the only two in the place. I have driven past on other occasions and the establishment has been heaving so perhaps my visit isn’t a fair representation. The staff were smartly dressed, very friendly and helpful, but…remote. We positioned ourselves out of sight from the bar so that we could talk, but it worked to our detriment since our waiter was scarcely seen.

THE ONLY THING IS…

When we did see the lesser spotted waiter, he was skittish. He served our table with a smile but when he put down the plate with the naan bread, the naan promptly left the plate and scooted across the table. Having taken our drinks order at the start – a glass of wine and a pint of lager, he returned fairly tardily with two lagers. The food was excellent, but maybe a takeaway is the way forward…

MENU

Sonar Gaon

I must admit that my partner and I are extremely predictable when it comes to curry. We always share a chicken tikka masala (£7.95), a chicken korma (£6.55), a plain naan (£2.25) and pilau rice

High Street Wadhurst East Sussex TN5 6AA 01892 782 284

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FOOD

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KEEPING IT SWEET This month, our celebrity chef Rosemary Shrager is away, so Gemma Dunn takes a look at James Martin’s new book Sweet and the tempting recipes inside…

PA FEATURE/LAUREN HENLEY

E

very single dessert was shot at my house, and made and plated by me,” reveals the 43-year-old Yorkshireman.

“My agent was shouting and screaming as they had to take three weeks off, but what with celebrating 20 years in the business, I knew we needed to do this.”

Following on from 2007’s hugely popular Desserts, Sweet looks set to re-establish Martin as the king of puddings, with over 70 recipes, from simple classic bakes and family favourites, to lavish showstoppers and –wait for it – an allimportant troubleshooting section (Hallelujah!).

– here is a recipe from his new book to whet your appetite...

Sweet by James Martin is published by Quadrille, priced £20. Available now.

• 450g self-raising flour • 2tsp baking powder • 200g butter, plus extra for greasing

PA FEATURE/QUADRILLE

If you fancy trying out some of Martin’s sweet treats – from the privacy of your own kitchen

PEACH AND CREME FRAICHE CRUMBLE CAKE SERVES 12-16

• 350g demerara sugar • 6 eggs

 Preheat the oven to 180C/Gas 4

• 150g creme fraiche

and butter a 2L ovenproof dish.

• 25ml peach schnapps or peach juice

 Whisk the melted butter, eggs and

• 100ml peach puree

Sift the flour, cocoa and baking powder

• 7 peaches, halved and stoned, or 2 x 400g tins peach halves, drained

 Pour the butter mixture onto the

For the crumble • 60g plain flour • 30g butter, diced • 30g demerara sugar

milk together in a jug until smooth. into a bowl then stir in the sugar. flour and mix well to a smooth batter.

Stir in the dark and milk chocolate and spoon into the prepared baking dish.  To make the sauce, bring the water and sugar to the boil in a saucepan, then add the cocoa and whisk until smooth. Pour evenly over the top of the batter then place the dish in the

For the topping • 100g creme fraiche • 100g cream cheese • 50ml double cream

oven to bake for 25-30 minutes. The top of the sponge will be just firm to the touch, but underneath there will be a runny chocolate sauce. Serve hot with double cream or ice cream.

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

••

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SCHOOLS

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EDUCATION NEWS SHARED SCIENCE THE future of scientific study has been given a boost after more than 400 pupils from across Kent congregated at Benenden School for its first Chemistry at Work Day. Run in conjunction with the Royal Society of Chemistry, the event was set up with the aim of inspiring to further pursue the subject at university level. It did this through a series of workshops, lectures and interactive presentations, each designed to showcase the relevance and societal importance of chemistry in everyday life.

“We are fortunate to have some wonderful science facilities at Benenden and were delighted to share them with students from other schools,” says the school’s headmistress Samantha Price.

“We all have a shared enthusiasm for science and I hope that the Chemistry at Work Day will prove to be the first of many such events.”

UKULELE ASSEMBLY Students at Marlborough House School in Hawkhurst were in for a treat when one of the world’s finest ukulele musicians, Phil Doleman performed at a school assembly.

Music teacher George Bartle, who last year started up the ‘Marlborough House Ukulele Orchestra’ at the school and organised Mr Doleman’s visit, hoped that hearing a

Two young entrepreneurs showcased their fledgling enterprise to

world-class Jazz and Blues musician would inspire pupils

business leaders at a networking breakfast.

already learning the instrument and encourage more to

Rosie Judd and Iola Palmer-Stirling of the Tunbridge Wells Girls’

come along and join the group. Mr Bartle even impressed

Grammar Young Enterprise team joined the Royal Spa Chapter of

students by joining in and performing with the musician,

Business Networking International last month to introduce Ame Via,

who has appeared on several albums, performed on BBC

which makes

radio and TV, and shared the stage with some of the

bags. “It was

world’s finest musicians.

really great to be able to talk to local business people,” says Rosie. “We got lots of tips about how to

BAGS OF TALENT

make Ame Via a success, which we will

be putting into practice over the coming months.” The girls, who are both in the lower sixth, attended the networking meeting which began at 6am and received lots of orders for local business owners for their bags. For more information on Ame Via, visit www. facebook.com/ikalifestylebags

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Vinehall ROBERTSBRIDGE, EAST SUSSEX

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SO

W H AT S O N

JANUARY ENCORE

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

10TH» Winter’s Tale

Directed by Kenneth Branagh and Rob Ashford, Branagh Theatre Live brings you a recorded live transmission of A Winter’s Tale. Trinity Theatre provides the venue so that you don’t have to go all the way to London to see this popular Shakespeare tragicomedy. Dame Judi Dench plays Paulina and Kenneth Branagh plays leontes in this starstudded rendition of a Shakespeare classic. Full price tickets are £18 with concessions for seniors and children.

For the box office, call 01892 678 678 or visit www.trinitytheatre.net

6TH » Cranbook Colrado

The Cranbrook Film Society is proud to present Slow West, a surreal Western thriller set in 1870s Colorado. The story sees a young Scot (Kodi Smit-McPhee) travelling West to find his sweetheart with the help of his guide, Silas (Michael Fassbender). This coming of age film, shot in New Zealand, is a certificate (15), but the club only welcomes members aged 16 and above. The cinema screening is held at Queen’s Hall Theatre of Cranbrook School.

Doors and bar open at 7.30pm www.cranbrookfilmsociety.org 120

9TH » Quality Quintet

The Royal Academy of Music is responsible for producing the Magnard Ensemble, a fun and dynamic 5-piece performing music from composers all over Europe, including Britain’s contemporary composer Peter Patterson. This Benson Young Artists Concert, held at Tonbridge Parish Church, will delight listeners with a variety of styles and genres brought to you by talented young musicians with a background in major orchestras and musicals.

Tickets cost £15 but students attend for free.

Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start.

15TH » Kimmie in Kemsing

Grammy-nominated Texan singer songwriter Kimmie Rhodes brings her vocal talents to St Edith Hall in Kemsing. Her voice has been likened to a fine dry wine, and her music described as America’s best kept secret. For fans of original country-influenced music and quality covers, this concert is an essential in your 2016 calendar.

Booking is advised.

Tickets are £12, available from www.wegottickets.com

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W H AT S O N

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20TH » Jazzed Up

The Cross Keys in Southborough plays host to Paul and the Nocasters, with Guests. Bournemouth born guitarist guru Paul Malsom explores the familiar genres of jazz and blues, and everything in between. Malsom’s music is influenced by the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Pat Metheny, John McLaughlin and Egberto Gismonti. Music starts at 8.15pm and runs through to 10.30pm.

This event is free at the Cross Keys pub. www.crosskeystw.co.uk

21ST » He’s Behind You!

The Benenden Players bring you their superb pantomime Dick Turpin at Benenden Village Halls. The show will fascinate the whole family with its combination of detectives and exotic dancers, and the starring role played by Brown Bess the panto horse. Be entertained and educated simultaneously as the play delves into our smuggling heritage. Doors open at 6.45pm every day from January 21 to 23 and from 1.45pm on January 24.

Tickets are available from Benenden Shop or www.benendenplayers.co.uk

23RD » Return of the King

Winner of Memphis’ Worldwide Ultimate Tribute Artist Contest, Ben Portsmouth, performs at the Assembly Hall in Tunbridge Wells. His effortless style and musical talent entertains audiences of all ages, representing Elvis with startling accuracy through the different stages of his career. Experience the essence and spirit of what it must have been like to see the young King perform.

Tickets are on sale from £23. wwwassemblyhalltheatre.co.uk.

Start time 7.30pm.

29TH » Pianist from Paris

Pascal Rogé, along with his wife and musical partner Ami Rogé, will be gracing Frant Church with a piano recital as part of the Frant International Music Festival 2016. Rogé, who has been affiliated with several prolific orchestras worldwide, will be performing a combination of solo pieces and duets to delight and intrigue. The event begins at 8pm.

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22/12/2015 11:22

Got something to

are ?â&#x20AC;˘ If you've got an offer, event or news story we would love to share it with our thousands of @SoMagazines followers

Follow us @SoMagazines

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C U LT U R E

SO

QUESTION TIME

INSIDE VIEW Local music making its mark in the capital according to Paul Dunton

T

owards the end of 2013, I felt

Australian artist Martin Sharp, Augustus

compelled to organise a regular

John and Annigoni. It was also the home of

– the shows have consistently attracted

showcase in London with a view to

Eleanor Thornton, thought to have been the

an average of 70 to 80 people per night

booking some of the wonderfully talented

model for The Spirit of Ecstasy mascots on

and we have sold out 18 of the 24

from Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding

the bonnets of Rolls Royce cars. Dylan

events. The local acts are doing great,

areas. The aim was to showcase these

Thomas used to drink here when it was a

selling CDs in abundance, increasing

selected acts to a new London audience

club in the 1930s and Eric Clapton lived on

their mailing lists and social media

and to bill them with a mixture of

the top floor in the late 1960s!

profiles as a result and have really won

Two years on and things are going well

established London based artists. I have

Back to the challenge of setting up the

110% belief in our local talent, so I knew

new show, it was a tough one, as I had to

been booked for other London venues

they would impress given the opportunity.

set about the task of learning how to

off the back of the showcase. I receive

market and promote events in a

many emails from punters who just

there are so many venues in London! What

completely new area on a shoe string

cannot get over the standard of the acts

are the key ingredients when choosing a

budget. You can’t just solely rely on bands

particularly who hail from Tunbridge

venue? In my opinion the top five are: 1.

or the venue to do the hard work for you,

Wells – I tell them it must be something

Good pay for my artists. 2. Accessible

as a promoter it’s your job to get stuck in!

in the spa water!

location. 3. Good sound, lighting and

Secondly, convincing people to attend

suitable capacity. 4. Good box office and

who in the large part would be unaware

evening, join us for a trip to Kings Road,

venue marketing support. 5. Easy to deal

of these ‘out of town’ bands that I was

Chelsea and enjoy a mix of local and

with and reliable venue management.

intending to showcase is not straight

native London acts strutting their stuff,

forward. The final task was to do a great

plus pizza, beer and music…now that is

chose The Pheasantry venue on Kings Road

deal of research into London acts and

a fine combo!

which is one Pizza Express’s dedicated three

gradually build up relationships and form

music venues. The Pheasantry is a beautiful

an official London roster as I felt strongly

shows at The Pheasantry including artist

Georgian building originally used to raise

that this would help balance the

line ups and booking information can be

pheasants for the royal household. It’s had

programming for each show and in turn

found at www.paulduntonandguests.

many distinguished residents including

help with audiences and marketing.

com/events

First of all I had to pick the right venue…

After much searching and deliberation, I

over the London audiences. Some have

So, if you have a spare Thursday

More details of the Local in London

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SO

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T H E AT R E

SO

ENCORE

SCREEN STARS

Opera House and Bolshoi Ballet are pulling out all the stops for their 2016

This month Trinity Theatre looks at the success of cinema screenings

Season to draw avid theatre goers to the stage and screen with an eclectic mix of opera and dance.

Along with the return of fan favourites

W

such as Verdi’s tragic opera of a hy do we love the cinema so

applaud with them, you get an excellent

Parisian courtesan who sacrifices all

much? Anthony Burgess once

view and you get to marvel at some of

for love in Richard Eyre’s production

wrote that it was funny how

the finest work by some of the finest

of La Traviata, the season brings brand

the colours of the real world

practitioners in opera, music, dance and

new exclusives such as Jean-

theatre.

Christophe Maillot’s adaption of

only seemed really real when you watched them on a screen.

There’s something about it. An evening trip to the cinema watching your favourite stars on screen is still considered a real treat over a century since the first film was made. In the age of watch-on-demand and live streaming, the UK film industry alone is still worth an estimated £4.6billion.

Nothing quite beats the smell of popcorn and sense of occasion that a trip to the movies brings.

But cinema is not just for viewing the Audrey Hepburns, Johnny Depps and other Hollywood starlets of the world.

Have you been to a live theatre stream from London or Russia or Broadway? It’s really quite spectacular. You laugh along with the audience members in the auditorium. You cry with them, you

The quality of the broadcasts are reflected in sales. The live transmission of Kenneth Branagh’s production of The Winter’s Tale, from the Garrick theatre in London’s West End, was the UK’s most popular film on 26 November, outscoring even The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2.

Similarly, the box office total for the National Theatre Live film of the stage production of Hamlet with Benedict Cumberbatch recently overtook that of the well-reviewed movie adaptation of Macbeth starring Michael Fassbender, with current cumulative totals of £2.85m and £2.82m respectively demonstrating that old-style cinema going is still popular.

But it’s not just theatre that’s onscreen.

The English National Opera, Royal

Shakespeare’s comedy The Taming of the Shrew – offering two hours of breath-taking, non-stop dance.

As the only cinema located in the town centre, Trinity Theatre’s new spring listings ensure they bring the very best of screen and stage talent to the heart of Tunbridge Wells. If you have yet to see stage productions from some of the greatest artists in the business, spring is your time to experience the live screenings that will only continue to grow in their popularity.

Film tickets start from £8 for adults and £6 for children, and Live Screening tickets from £13.

For all screen listings, please visit www.trinitytheatre.net or call the Trinity Theatre Box Office on 01892 678 678

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SO

L U X U R Y T R AV E L

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

ISLAND INDULGENCE Ease your way into 2016 at one of these relaxing resorts in Saint Lucia

R

esolutions are always a big part of

where wellness and relaxation is the focus.

romantic island. Accommodation ranges

the New Year. From spending more

Whether you are travelling alone, with

from rustic rainforest retreats and boutique

time with the family to learning a

friends or with loved ones, Saint Lucia’s

beach hotels to some of the most

new hobby, these become goals for

crystal clear waters, spectacular natural

staggeringly luxurious resorts in the entire

the year ahead. But one thing that often

treasures and luxury hotels with award-

region. It’s no surprise that Saint Lucia is a

gets overlooked is to make more time for

winning wellness facilities are the

favourite for couples on their honeymoon,

ourselves; to relax and unwind from our

perfect location to discover your

but a host of high-octane pursuits and

day to day stresses.

own personal nirvana.

watersports also make it a great

They say travel broadens the mind, but it

Impossibly picturesque, her jagged,

destination for the more adventurous

can also give some crucial breathing space

jungle-clad peaks rising from the sea like

traveller, as well as for active families

away from the hectic pace of modern life,

dragon’s teeth, stunning Saint Lucia is

looking for more than just a beach holiday.

especially if you choose a destination

rightly feted as the Caribbean’s most

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Culturally, Saint Lucia is an intoxicating

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L U X U R Y T R AV E L

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

And how could we forget the beach. The

7 nights from £1,739 per person based on

beaches on Saint Lucia range from golden

2 adults sharing a Premium Garden View

to powder white, all gently lapped by the

Room on All Inclusive. Save up to 35% on

stunning Caribbean sea, simply creating the

travel between 1 May - 26 December 2016

perfect island for a Caribbean holiday.

when you book by 31 January 2016.

SO

So take a deep breath and read on to find out more about our top five luxury resorts in Saint Lucia where wellness and relaxing is the main priority.

THE BODY HOLIDAY The key pillars of The BodyHoliday are relaxation, restorative beauty, exercise and good diet. On arrival you are given your own personal treatment schedule, as every day of your stay at this resort you will be given a treatment designed to awaken your senses using only the best natural products. With a choice of 12 different treatments to choose from, deciding between the Heaven & Earth treatment, an Aloe Yoghurt Body Wrap or the Full Body Massage will be the most strenuous part of your day.

7 nights from £2,095 per person based on 2 adults sharing a Luxury Room on All Inclusive. Save up to 35% on travel between 1 May - 19 December 2016 when you book by 31 January 2016.

SUGAR BEACH, A VICEROY RESORT Reflection, renewal and a break from the stresses of life are the key elements at the Rainforest Spa at Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort. Nestled between the Pitons, the island’s spiritual heart, the treatment rooms are built in traditional tree houses.

All products and treatments have been designed to harness the nourishing properties of nearby volcanic springs and fertile cocoa plantations whilst local beauty secrets are used to hydrate, rejuvenate and bring you back to life.

7 nights from £1,729 per person based on 2 adults sharing a Sugar Mill Luxury Room

WINDJAMMER LANDING VILLA BEACH RESORT Overlooking the picturesque Labrelotte Bay, Windjammer Landing’s brand new luxury wellness centre has personalised expertise written all over it. With a signature skincare collection and holistic spa service menu, a Naturopathic Doctor and fitness classes ranging from core conditioning to stand up paddle yoga, The Spa at Windjammer Landing is fully equipped to heal your mind, body and soul. The customised signature treatments are tailor made to your individual requirements and not to be missed.

7 nights from £999 per person based on 2 adults sharing an Ocean View Room on Room Only.

TI KAYE RESORT & SPA One of Ti Kayes best kept secrets (until now), Kai Koko Spa is built on the cliff’s edge looking out over the Caribbean sea.

All treatments are created locally using organic ingredients plucked from the virgin rainforest. Cocoa and coconut feature in many of the spa’s treatments and the chocolate body scrub is a must. Every treatment at Kai Koko Spa is a ceremony beginning with cool fruit tea, foot cleansing and massage ritual.

7 nights from £1,599 per person based on 2 adults sharing an Ocean View Room, including breakfast.

All prices include return scheduled flights, private transfers and use of a UK airport lounge.

on Room Only. Receive 2 nights free when you travel between 16 April - 18 December 2016. Book by 29 February 2016.

RENDEZVOUS melange of English, French and African

The Spa in the Water Garden is the place to

influences, tangible in everything from the

pamper yourself, de-stress and completely

exotic markets in the capital, Castries, to the

relax. This spa offers the perfect couple’s

lilting rhythms of Kweyol, the French creole

spa experience. Their specifically designed

spoken by the locals. Reminders of Saint

couple’s treatments are a fantastic way

Lucia’s colonial past can be found in the

to make the most of your own time and

fortifications at Pigeon Island, while the

bring you closer together. The Suite

‘drive-in’ volcano at Soufrière in the south

Sweet Experience should be on the top of

offers up clues to a more ancient history,

every couples to do list with therapeutic

when Saint Lucia’s otherworldly landscape,

treatments held in the Pavilion Couples

dominated by the towering Piton

Suite. The newly extended beach area is the

mountains, was hewn from molten rock.

perfect place to while away the hours.

To book your Saint Lucia spa and wellness retreat get in contact with: Sunways Leisure Travel Station Road, Longfield, Kent, DA3 7QD 01474 704 186 enquiries@sunways.co.uk

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21/12/2015 15:37

treatments

01474 704 186 quiries@sunways.co.uk Station Road, Longfield, Kent DA3 7QD

waysholidays.co.uk

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SO

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CLASSIC COLLECTION -

H OL I DAYS -

Why not bo~k an appointment today please contact david@billingtontravel.co-m

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22/12/2015 15:40

SO

L U X U R Y T R AV E L

A PIECE OF PALMA The wave of luxury has caught up with Mallorca, turning its medieval capital into a decadent destination of choice for discerning tourists. Now’s the time to go and Pippa Park shows us how to do it in style…

a swanky and surprisingly spacious bolthole,

and brings distinctive Scandi design (think

and my attention is only temporarily diverted

minimal with lots of white wood and fabulous

from the arresting silhouette of Palma

cow skin rugs to accent) to a 16th century

Cathedral, which stands a few streets away

building in the heart of the city. General

on the old harbour wall.

manager, Sven seems to have mastered the

You’d be forgiven for passing up Mallorca

art of marrying Scandi-cool with

as a holiday destination, perhaps

Mediterranean hospitality. At breakfast one

inadvertently put off by the rambunctious

morning he joins my mum and I with four

resorts such as Maguluf that lure 18-30

large shots, insisting they will revitalise us

year-olds to the west side of the island, but

after our late night frequenting the local wine

you’d be wrong to do so. It’s the country that

bars. We’re slightly alarmed at the thought of

calls Palma its capital – and what a capital it

heavy duty vodka as a side to our scrambled

he late afternoon sun is twinkling

is. Backed by mountains, shaped by the sea

eggs, but the polite English woman within

off the open glass doors on one

and home to the best restaurants in the

sees us both down-in-one. To our great

of the many tiny balconies that

Balearics, this is not a place to overlook.

surprise we’re bright eyed and bushy tailed

surround me, warming my

Once you breach the industrial border and

again within the hour and set off to see what

upturned face. Countless small terraces,

penetrate the historic nucleus, Palma is

the city has to offer by way of retail therapy.

much like the one I am on now, form a secret

buzzing with life, culture and the lovable

rooftop world. The busy streets below are

locals only known to the Med.

T

bustling with happy tourists and the hum of

In more recent years a modern renaissance

That’s the thing about Palma, there’s so much going on that you never know where the day will take you. Thanks to miles of

every day life, but up here is the beating heart

has swept the city, contouring the time-

meandering cobbled streets, narrow lanes

of local life.

honoured traditions and bringing with it a

and medieval alleys, it’s the perfect place

new wave of boutique hotels, designer shops

for aimless wandering and drifting between

world from Mary Poppins drifts into my

and first-rate eateries. This in turn has

shops, tapas bars, museums and galleries.

mind as I watch a middle-aged Spanish lady

attracted a more sophisticated, discerning

For a local lunch I’d recommend heading

pass a loaf of bread to her neighbour, over

tourist (far from the beer-swilling young lads

to Passeig des Born, a beautiful passage

the chipped black railings that separate

that populate those tackier resorts) and it’s

promising a plethora of bustling bars and

them. My feet are floating luxuriously in a

now the place to see and be seen.

cafes that all afford priceless views of

A vague memory of the chimney sweep

frothing Jacuzzi on the rooftop of Hotel Tres,

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Hotel Tres is one of these boutique hotels

the cathedral.

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L U X U R Y T R AV E L

vibrant arts scene (we’re talking 40-odd

Mardavall. Just a short taxi ride from the city

local tapas bars. Some are chic modern bars,

galleries) to exciting live music and cluttered

it boasts one of the best spas I have ever

others ramshackle old nooks, but almost all

market stalls, there’s a whole world to

had the joy of discovering. A scrub and peel

serve a delightful array of tapas, for just a

discover just by wandering the labyrinth of

followed up with a soothing massage form

few euros. Tortilla slices and lightly seasoned

cobbled lanes. For a post dinner stroll I’d

one of their talented masseuses is the best

calamari championed my list, while my

recommend making your way to the harbour

way to prep your skin for a holiday glow,

seafood-loving mother took a fancy to the

and walking along the water – the impressive

plus their many picturesque pools provide

mejillones (local mussels). The local cheeses

boats on show are well worth the detour.

an idyllic spot to unwind and catch some

and hams are also exceptional so if you’d

From here you can really appreciate the

rays. If you don’t stay here, stop by for a

rather a little of everything, I’d suggest a

beauty of the cathedral too - at night it’s lit up

spa day or even for an evening meal at

pintxos bar. It’s essentially gourmet mini

like a beacon and takes prominence against

their high profile restaurant, Es Fum.

tapas and is priced per piece.

the dark sky. If you decide to venture inside,

So it’s with a heavy heart that we leave

aim for an early evening visit when it’s a bit

Palma. It’s rare to feel so connected with a

cooler and crowds have died down.

foreign city, but with it’s not hard not to feel

You can’t go too far wrong with the hive of

For a classier affair, you can’t get much more decadent than the seven-course tasting menu at Simply Fosh. It’s the only eatery in

During the warmer months it would be

welcome here. Ideal for a weekend break,

foolish not to spend a day on one of

but even better for a week-long escape

the food baby of Kent-born chef, Marc Fosh.

Palma’s beautiful beaches. The popular

when you can really get to grips with what

Despite being notoriously difficult to find, it’s

Cala Majob on the west of the city is one of

the area is all about. Roam the streets, get

the go-to establishment for a slap up dinner.

the best though it can get busy so look at

lost, befriend the locals and try something

Once you’ve located the unassuming

Pollenca and Cala Agula as well. In my

new. Just be sure to book the Jacuzzi suite

entrance, you’re ushered into a stylish, dimly

opinion sunny days are not made for city

at Hotel Tres …

lit restaurant, complete with indoor palms

stays, so if you’re lucky enough to visit on a

and a gently trickling waterfall. Be sure to ask

hot day, treat yourself to a day at the

for wine pairings from the knowledgeable

luxurious Puro Beach Club in Palma Bay.

(and highly entertaining) sommelier, and try

Set on a beautiful peninsula out to sea, this

dipping your warm bread into the local olive

exquisite club is where you rub shoulders

oil – you won’t find better.

with the Palma’s most glamorous. Order

The St Regis Mardavall. Double

some local bubbly and find yourself a chic

rooms from €410 per night.

Forn de Sant Joan, a highly rated restaurant

white sun bed under an ornate parasol,

(www.stregismardavall.com)

near the harbour. Go for a romantic dinner,

then lounge around the fabulous black

Forn De Sant Joan

sit somewhere quiet and order the tuna

marble swimming pool. Come sundown

(www.forndesantjoan.com)

tartare to start; it’s the best I’ve ever tasted.

the club gets a second lease of life and

Simply Fosh www.simplyfosh.

Service is second to none and the selection

well-dressed locals stop by for an evening

com Puro Beach Club

of smooth red wines is highly intoxicating…

meal and drinks by the water.

(www.purobeach.com)

Once you’ve quelled your appetite, you might be hungry for some culture. From the

FACTS

the city to be awarded a Michelin star and is

Another stellar destination for foodies is

With special thanks to Hotel Tres. Double rooms from €168 per night (www.hoteltres.com)

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21/12/2015 12:29

ITALY & GREEK ISLES CRUISE OCEANVIEWGUEST 1: £1,605 GUEST 2: £980 *PRICING BASED ON LONDON GATWICK DEPARTURE

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Baldwins Travel Group For more information on Celebrity Cruise's sailings and offers please contact your local Baldwins Travel Group branch

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Baldwins Travel - Tunbridge Wells

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Terms and conditions: Advertised from prices are price per person and based on two people sharing the advertised category of stateroom subject to availability. The Buy One Get Cne Half Off (BOGOHO) promotion is valid for new Ocean View and aoove category bookings made between the 15 Dec- 29 Feb 2016 on selected Eur~n 7+ night sailings departing Ap!" 2016- Apr 2017. The Free Classic Drinks Promotion is valid for new Ocean View and aoove category OOOkings made between the 15 Dec 2015- 29 Apr 2016 on selected 7+ night sailings departing Apr 2016- Apr 2017. Where a featured sailing offers OOth benefits, an eligible booking will receive both benefits. Promotions exclude guarantee stateroom oookings (Z. Y, X. XC. XA and W'J. Eligible pr001otion OOlefits apply to the first two adults of a oooking only. Bocl<ingseligible for BOGOHO will receive a 50% discount of the cruise fare for the second guest only (gratuities, air fares, hotels. transfers ar.d other booked amenities excluded) calculated by reference to the full fare amount paid by the first guest in the stateroom. &xlkings eligible for the Free Drinks promotion will receive a Classic Drinks package for the first two guests on an eligible booking. Please drink responsibly. For general booking conditions including advice on ATOUABTA protection, full promotion terms and conditions. applicable ships and sail dates, full promotion combinability restrictions. ca11cellation charges and other information. please contact your travel agent. This promotion is sponsored by RCL Cruises Ltd Va Celebrity Cruises (company number 07366612} with registered office address at Building 3, The Heights. Brooklar.ds, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 ONY. Further teirns & conditions apply.

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ADVERTORIAL

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

I

n October 2014, the National Grid stated that there was a 4.1% surplus of peak supply over peak demand. Since that figure was published, the power station called Didcot B was destroyed by a fire in October 2014; on May 21 2015, Didcot C was closed, not because it wasn’t working, but in order to comply with regulations relating to emissions.

Didcot C’s closure reduced the Grid’s capacity by 7%.

Further, by March 2016, four more power stations will have been shut down for the same reason. They are all smaller than Didcot C, but the overall effect is that the grid simply will not be able to generate the electricity that is required, and by a substantial margin.

Dungeness was due to be decommissioned in 2015, but has been reprieved until 2020, with a possible extension to 2024.

On a local level, the project of cutting back trees to prevent power cuts from falling branches ceased approximately four years ago in most areas in order to save money! What power cuts will cost the country is anyone’s guess, but it seems inevitable that it will be far greater than the cost of tree surgery.

So, what is to be done? Renewable energy sources are nowhere near able to bridge the gap. Wind and wave power are able to contribute only a minute amount. Solar power can do well on a perfect summer’s day, but really doesn’t figure on a cold, overcast winter’s day. Nuclear is not able to rescue us either. The EDF plant at Hinkley Point in Somerset is running years behind. Drax, the country’s largest power station (10%) is in some turmoil following the withdrawal of subsidies for carbon capture.

All the forecasts are that consumer and general industrial demand will continue to increase, and some major new projects such as the electrification of fast rail networks will consume huge amounts, so the gap will only increase further.

What, therefore, can we expect?

Reduced voltage, certainly. Most electrical equipment will run on 210 volts, just perhaps not as well as with 230 volts, but some will not cope with it without suffering damage.

And it seems inevitable that there will be

power cuts at peak times, particularly in vulnerable areas, until a better managed power supply is put in place…and that will not happen for many years.

Everything that has been set out above is in the public domain, and nothing has been exaggerated – indeed, the writer has carefully avoided any overstatement or alarmism. But he must own up to a vested interest: he is a director of Generating Interest Ltd, a company that supplies and installs generators of all kinds, and specialises in those which cut in automatically when there is a power cut, and cut out again when mains power returns. While there are a number of ways of coping with power cuts, at present a backup generator is by far the cheapest and most reliable solution.

Generating Interest Limited The Clock House, High Street, Wadhurst, East Sussex TN5 6AA 01892 599 696 www.generatinginterest.co.uk nigel@generatinginterest.co.uk

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GENERATION GAME Matt Joy puts the new Audi Q7 e-tron through its paces to see what’s new and what’s improved…

The second-generation Q7 hasn’t even reached its first birthday, but there’s a new version just around the corner. Lighter, stiffer and packed with more technology than ever before, the new Q7 is exactly the kind of car that big Audi buyers are looking for. But this e-tron version is something altogether different.

Mixing diesel power with electric motors, the Q7 e-tron is a plug-in hybrid promising exceptional fuel consumption and emissions alongside similar performance, similar pricing and barely diminished practicality, although it still has to compete with the overall excellence of the standard car.

On the image front, Audi has always been strong, and while

in the boot where the third row of

To look at, there’s nothing to

emissions issues may have had a

seats would normally sit, so the

distinguish the electric Q7 from its

negative effect, what better way to

Q7 e-tron is a five-seater only,

combustion-only counterpart. If

move on from that than with an SUV

although you still get the flexibility

you’re really paying attention, you

that can run on just electric power?

of individual chairs in the second

may notice the additional filler flap,

134

The substantial battery pack sits

LOOKS AND IMAGE

row that can slide and fold. The

but the e-tron is as chunky and

SPACE AND PRACTICALITY

boot space is also reduced as a

prestigious as the standard car. It’s a

The Q7 e-tron is unquestionably a

result, but there’s still a sizeable

matter of taste of course, but the Q7

sizeable car, but in e-tron guise

650 litres on offer with the seats

has plenty of presence.

there are a couple of compromises.

in place.

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SO the charge stays unused until you

and greener than a standard diesel

request it and battery charge, where

it qualifies for the Government’s

the engine will charge the battery

£5,000 grant, will pay no vehicle

whilst you drive.

excise duty or London congestion

So far it’s as with most other

charge. It would also bring

plug-in hybrids, but the Q7 has

substantial BIK savings for company

another trick up its sleeve. You can

car buyers.

leave it in hybrid and it will engage the battery, the diesel engine or both

WHO WOULD BUY ONE?

depending on how you drive but if

Not everyone needs so much space

you use the sat nav Predictive

and comfort of course so there are

Assistant will determine what

smaller plug-in hybrids and

comfortable as the standard Q7,

combination to use based on the

conventional electric cars that can

with generous space front and rear

road - and even the traffic - in the

be as frugal, but no rival can offer

as well as excellent materials. The

miles ahead.

the same combination of comfort,

The cabin itself is as spacious and

Q7’s virtual cockpit comes into its

As the driver all you notice is that

space, luxury and economy all at the

own here too, giving you a full

this Q7 is even quieter than the

same time. Company car drivers will

update on what the complex power

standard car, and while the

love it, families with the funds will

train is up to.

increased weigh might mean it’s not

love it too and active lifestyle types

quite as quick or quite so agile, the

with a conscious might not baulk at

BEHIND THE WHEEL

potential economy results are worth

the idea either. It’s clever technology

Complex it may be, but the Q7

the small sacrifice.

that is well executed and installed in a useful and desirable SUV.

makes life easy for you where VALUE FOR MONEY

electric mode on start-up,

On the one hand the Q7 in e-tron

SUMMED UP IN A SINGLE WORD:

acceleration from rest is smooth,

form is significantly more expensive

Gamechanger

near-silent and usefully brisk

than a comparable diesel model, but

considering its size. There are four

that extra outlay brings with it a

IF THIS CAR WAS A...:

operation modes to choose from; EV

number of significant advantages.

Car of the future in 1980, it wouldn’t

mode, hybrid, battery save where

As well as being obviously cleaner

have been thought possible

FACTS

driving is concerned. Defaulting to

AUDI Q7 E-TRON, £65,000 (EST).

Engine: 3.0-litre diesel unit plus electric motor producing 369bhp and 516lb/ft of torque Transmission: Eight-speed automatic driving all four wheels Performance: Top speed 140mph, 0-62mph in 6.0 seconds Economy: 166.2mpg combined Emissions: 46g/km of CO2

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

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22/12/2015 16:25

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LOCAL LUXURIES

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

BeN cLaRKsoN gaRDeN seRvIces Botanically Trained 19 years’ experience

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

langton green 07779 328087 juliapilates@hotmail.co.uk www.julialouisepilates.co.uk

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

• 07725 812356 • www.ftacarpentry.co.uk This isn’t just a car

It’s a personal service you can trust with quality executive vehicles

Dining out Business Airport Transfers and more

VST Jewellery & Watch Repairs We can expertly repair delicate jewellery that may have been deemed impossible to repair.

We perform all repair services at our workbenches - faster, less expensive and better.

34 Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2PT

07747 066544

01892 652142 colin.hardman@heritagehire.co.uk

www.vstjewellery.co.uk

01892 526119

info@jewellery.co.uk

LOCAL LOCKSMITH

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NO CALL-OUT FEE!

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138

Independent Postal Service for retail and business DO YOU Need to outsource your postal requirements?

Need a company to take care of your eBay orders?

Need a post box with private mailing address?

Have items requiring packaging and shipment?

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

JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6

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LOCAL LUXURIES

Essentially

Unique

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

Contact Paul H Crawford Confidentiality assured

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

GARDEN DESIGN

LANDSCAPING

SO

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

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

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

PLEASE CALL BOB NOAKES FOR A FREE QUOTATION 01959 525821 sevenoaks@bartlettuk.com www.bartlett.com JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6

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SCOTNEY STYLE

How this National Trust property maintains its charm PAGE 152

AND

so 46

PAGES OF HOMES, INTERIORS & GARDENS

PANTONE PICKS Our favourite items in this year’s hottest hues PAGE 151

PERIOD PIECES

How to give your property a timeless feel PAGE 146

BEAUTIFUL WEALDEN HOMES…OUTDOOR READING…NURSERY COLUMN F E B R UA RY 2 0 1 5

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Five of the best...

BATHROOMS CATCHPOLE & RYE Catchpole & Rye is an iconic luxury bathroom manufacturer based locally but operating internationally. Pluckley Kent is where the company was originally founded, however, this iconic brand enjoys international success, with its main flagship showroom in London.

Based on their growing success, they are proud to announce the opening of a two-storey showroom in Tunbridge Wells in spring 2016.

The Catchpole & Rye story began many years ago, with a passion to sell, as well as restore and maintain, antique baths and sanitaryware.

Owner Tony O’Donnell is an expert in bathroom antiques, and Catchpole & Rye takes on large restoration projects all over the UK for stately homes and castles.

The company prides itself on its commitment to British manufacturing – the reason the company produces its entire collection of cast-iron baths at its own foundry in Kent. The baths are poured using the same techniques that the foundry has been using for the past 100 years. Today, a vast collection of timeless bathroom pieces is on offer, as are the values of unique craftsmanship, superior quality and genuine care for a personal service. Hand-finished in its workshops by the company’s skilled and experienced craftsmen, each bath is a unique piece to be enjoyed and admired for many years to come. Pieces include beautiful copper beteau baths, cast-iron French roll-top baths, elegant console basins, polished cast-metal cisterns and a variety of bathroom taps and showers. Catchpole & Rye also offers a design service to ensure a beautifully designed bathroom.

London – 0207 351 0940 Pluckley – 01233 840 840 info@catchpoleandrye.com www.catchpoleandrye.com

WEST ONE BATHROOMS Established since 1978, West One Bathrooms Ltd remains a family-run business. Best known as Europe’s most illustrious and innovative supplier of bespoke bathrooms, our products can be viewed in showrooms throughout London and the South East. With the ability to source the latest products from worldwide leading manufacturers, a constant supply of new and exciting ranges to these beautiful showrooms is assured. The vast product selection also ensures that all requirements can be catered for, no matter the size of the project.

We look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful three-floor showroom in the heart of Tunbridge Wells, where we have a sale with up to 40% of selected products throughout January.

79 Calverley Rd, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2UY 01892 548 111 www.westonebathrooms.com

142

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

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THE BATHROOM SHOP The Bathroom Shop at Tenterden, a family business, was established in 1987. Our aim is to provide quality, value and, above all, service, both before and after sales. What sets us apart from other businesses is not only our possession of so many years of knowledge and experience, but also the wider variety of bathroom products we offer.

We endeavour to help our customers achieve their perfect bathroom and to avoid pitfalls in the installation.

11 East Cross, Tenterden, Kent TN30 6AD 01580 763 207 www.the-bathroomshop.co.uk

BADGER BATHROOMS Badger Bathrooms are in their 31st year, supplying and installing beautiful bathrooms in Kent. From the showroom at Tubs Hill Parade, Sevenoaks, retail and trade customers alike benefit from the company’s many years of experience. Badger Bathrooms offer a bespoke design service, even working off architects’ plans for customers extending their homes or building from new. Each design is accompanied by a workable image of each room along with detailed quotation. New this year is the exclusive and gorgeous Laura Ashley range of bathrooms offered together with a huge choice of major manufacturers’ products, including tiles and specialist flooring for bathrooms.

Tubs Hill Parade, London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1DH 01732 464 450 www.badgerbathrooms.co.uk

BATHROOM COLLECTION FREELANDS TILES Since 1999, Freelands Tiles in Dunton Green, Sevenoaks, have built a reputation in the area for excellent customer service and a great choice of tiles and accessories, with competitive prices to both trade and retail customers. If you’re looking for wall tiles, floor tiles or Appointed Stockist for the Laura Ashley Bathroom Collection mosaics for your new bathroom or kitchen, we have a wide range of Visit our showroom tiles and accessories to suit all styles and budgets. For larger orders Badger Bathrooms, 8-9 Tubs Hill Parade, London Road, Sevenoaks TN13 1DH we offer free local delivery. Come and meet our friendly, 464450 knowledgeable staff at our01732 showroom, or call us or visit the website www.badgerbathrooms.com for more information.

FURNITURE, & BRASSWARE

by Kent TN13 2UT 124-126SANITARYWARE London Road, Dunton Green, exclusively Sevenoaks,

01732 459 765 www.freelands-tiles.co.uk

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-

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ROMO Featured Designer

,.

interiors by

sk1ffriers OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS

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

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

MANUEL CANOVAS 6 Castle Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, KentTN11XJ. Tel: 01892 532003 Email: sarah@skinnersoftunbridgewells.co.uk ~ www.skinnersoftunbridgewells.co.uk ml

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INTERIORS

PERIOD CHARM If you’re looking to give your home a new look for the new year, then Julia Gray has these tips to add period features to your property…

1. FIREPLACES give a room a focal

point and character, and if they’re functional, are a practical addition to reception rooms. ebay is a great place to find fireplaces of all styles, including period and reproduction ones. While some are expensive, many can be picked up for very little. You can buy fireplaces fully restored, but others make a great DIY project. Painting a pine fireplace surround will quickly transform it, and rust can usually be banished with Hammerite Kurust (£8.49 for 250ml, Halfords), metal paint that can be applied directly to rust, or in the case of polished metal surrounds that aren’t designed to be painted, very fine sandpaper or metal polish and fine wire wool.

2. WINDOWS: Just as a chimney breast without a fireplace is a sorry sight, so are period properties with ugly plastic windows. Lots of people like UPVC

windows because they’re double glazed and low maintenance, but some styles are more attractive and in keeping than others. UPVC sash windows are a good compromise and don’t cost much more than UPVC casement windows from some suppliers. If you have a bigger budget, or your choice is restricted by planning laws, period-style wooden

windows are a beautiful and environmentally friendly alternative.

The windows can make a big difference to the appearance of your home and while changing them isn’t cheap, it’s worth doing if you can, especially if it makes your home more energy efficient in the process.

3. DOORS: Replacing ugly or dated exterior doors can also make a huge difference to your home’s appearance.

Wooden doors come in a large range of styles and as long as you pick one that suits the period of your home, it shouldn’t date. If you can’t afford new exterior doors, interior doors are generally much cheaper. There are, of course, period-style reproduction doors, but nothing beats original ones, which you can find in architectural salvage yards and on eBay. Even better, lots of people throw out original doors when they renovate, so they’re there for the taking. If the doors are in a poor state, save yourself a lot of time and effort by getting them professionally dipped and stripped - stripping them yourself is really hard work.

4. FEATURES: Some of the easiest period-style features to add are ceiling roses, coving/cornicing and dado and picture rails - there’s a big choice online and in DIY stores. With coving and ceiling roses, the best option for DIYers

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is lighter materials, such as polyurethane resin, which are straightforward to fit - leave fitting plaster designs to the professionals!

5. PERIOD FLOORING, whether stone

or wood, can be expensive if you’re buying reclaimed materials, so it’s not for everyone. Modern wooden flooring rarely looks like original floorboards, but stone is easier to replicate. Modern encaustic tiles are similar to Victorian ones, for example, and some companies specialise in laying them in intricate designs that match original ones. This is a fantastic way to create a stunning feature that won’t date.

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HOW TO Many period fireplaces, especially Victorian ones, have intricate metal surrounds and/ or inserts, which are beautiful but tricky to paint. I find that using a water-based metal paint makes things easier, as it’s less likely to run than most oilbased paints, and dries quickly.

You still need to watch out for runs and drips - go over them with an almost-dry paintbrush - but you’ll get a good finish relatively easily. Perhaps a better option is using a good spray paint, such as Ronseal Quick Drying All Surface Paint (£9.48 for 400ml, B&Q) – apply it in thin coats or it will run.

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2016

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INTERIORS

GREAT SCOT Chloe Tapping, house and collections manager at Scotney Castle tells us what’s involved in the interior upkeep the attic. While this is happening, we take the opportunity to carry out a deep clean and condition check of the first floor showrooms and contents as well as our storage areas. We also begin to plan the year ahead for the house, discussing what ‘hidden’ objects we can show throughout the year.

How have you been preparing for the new season?

During the winter months we take the opportunity to show aspects of our fascinating hidden collection in an exhibition on the ground floor of the house. This year we have ‘Arthur’s War’ which is an exhibition about Arthur Hussey and his 11 First World War diaries which we found in

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

At the end of January we will be getting ready to open all of the showrooms from February. We will also be planning the movement of objects in our stores as we begin to plan the long-term storage of these interesting items. We are also about to start an engagement project with

NT/ANDREAS VON EINSIEDEL

NT/ DAVID SELLMAN

How long have you been at Scotney Castle for, and did you work at any similar properties in the past?

I’ve now been at Scotney Castle for eight years. Before working here, I worked at Bateman’s, another local National Trust property. Prior to this I worked for English Heritage at Lullingstone Roman Villa.

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NT/ANDREAS VON EINSIEDEL

on some of the dresses and costume that has been found in the collection.

an archivist to begin cataloguing the many historical papers that we have in our collection.

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

The mansion house at Scotney Castle is a relatively new acquisition for the National Trust. Our current presentation of the showrooms is showing how the house was lived in

by Christopher and Betty Hussey from the 1950’s to the modern day.

Explaining the contrasts of how the house was used historically as well as in the 21st century is an interesting challenge for us. Our priority is to understand what we have in the vast collection here as this will help us to tell the stories of the castle.

Scotney is the modern Kitchen.

I enjoy explaining to visitors why this room may not be what they were expecting, for example a large Victorian kitchen and why the original domestic areas in the house were adapted for modern living. It is interesting to discuss why a room like this will probably be seen differently in 50 or 100 years.

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

We are planning some fun children’s trails around the house for the school holidays as well as focusing

What is the most commonly asked question from visitors?

‘How did the Hussey family make their money?’ – and the answer is that their ancestors originally came from Worcestershire and worked in the iron industry.

How can visitors recreate something of the ‘Scotney’ feel in their own homes?

Putting both old and new together – or for a quick fix, getting anything cat related!

What’s the most popular time for visitors at Scotney?

The gardens look superb in May and June when the azaleas and rhododendrons are in full colour and so this is our most popular visiting time. www.nationaltrust.org/ scotney-castle

NT/ANDREAS VON EINSIEDEL

What is the biggest challenge at Scotney?

Our biggest challenge is going through the stores and cataloguing everything on our electronic inventory system, condition checking and researching what we have. We are also making sure that our storage areas are being created to the required standard.

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

My favourite area of the house at

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21/12/2015 10:14

See what's new for 2016 ...

View our full selection of properties at www.lambertandfoster.co.uk

Otham

I Monthly rental of £895

COUNTRY

Ludden ham

•

TOWN

•

I Monthly rental of £1, 100

VILLAGE

With our extensive experience in residential lettings it places us in the perfect position to find a suitable tenant quickly and effectively.

We offer a full professional service for landlords and tenants helping you find the best package to suit your needs.

Paddock Wood 01892 831 606

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Cran brook 01580 712 234

Mayfield 01435 873 999

Paddock Wood

I Monthly rental of £995

CALLING ALL LANDLORDS...

Due to high demand we urgently require more properties!

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

-St ARIA

(~ RICS

21/12/2015 10:04

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

SECURITY

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HOME FRONT

J

anuary marks the time of fresh starts and new

What’s more, some of these stunning homes also

horizons, so what better time to look at changing your

have business facilities and opportunities included,

living situation than right now? Perhaps it’s something

so if you’re really looking to make your mark

you’ve been putting off for a while, or maybe you just fancy

for 2016, where better to start than a new location

a change of scene – either way, we have an abundance of

and a new adventure in one of these fantastic

properties perfect for you and your family’s fresh start.

properties?

HEADCORN

WADHURST

SEVENOAKS

WITHYHAM

HAYWARDS HEATH

Newly restored grade II

Outstanding detached house

Light and bright period

Charming farmhouse

Rural estate with winery

listed cottage

with substantial extension

home in private setting

with additional buildings

and business opportunities

Price: £649,00

Price: £1,999,500

Price: £1,980,000

Price: £1,795,000

Price: £4,500,000

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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ROOMS WITH A VIEW Outstanding detached house with substantial extension in Wadhurst THIS VERY IMPRESSIVE house dates from the 1930s and has recently been substantially extended very much in keeping with the original character. This has created an outstanding family house of exceptional quality, fitted and equipped throughout to a high standard and beautifully presented. Situated over three floors, the house benefits from a stunning kitchen with Arctic Cream granite work tops and a large island unit on the ground floor, as well as a family room, drawing room and utility facilities leading off from the impressive reception hall. Positioned over the next two floors, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find six large bedrooms, five of which are en suite, plus a gym, games room and further bathrooms. Outside, the main garden (about 1.25 acres) is on the south side where there is a magnificent paved terrace leading to a wide sweeping lawn with a sprung floor childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play area to one side and at the lower end an orchard, greenhouse and tractor shed.

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PROPERTY: South Acre LOCATION: Castle Walk, Wadhurst GUIDE PRICE: £1,999,500 BEDROOMS: 6 BATHROOMS: 6 (plus 2 cloakrooms) BEST BITS: The stunning, far-reaching views which can be seen from all rooms from the south side. n 5 en suite bathrooms n Principal bedroom with dressing room and walk in wardrobe n Family bathroom and 2 cloakrooms n Kitchen by Harvey Jones with La Canche range cooker and Miele appliances n Gym n Games room n Study n Reception hall n Drawing room n About 1.25 acres n Double car port plus garage n Open fireplaces n Sonos sound system to a number of rooms n Outdoor children’s play area n Orchard n Utility/boot room

For full details contact Hamptons • 01892 640 316 • www.hamptons.co.uk JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6

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Looking to sell?

Contact your Local independent Estate Agent for expert help Tonbridge 01732 771616 Pembury 01892 822880

BarnesKingsnorth Untitled-48 2

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PROPERTY: Creevagh LOCATION: Forest Road, Forest Row GUIDE PRICE: £1,850,000 BEDROOMS: 8 BATHROOMS: 6 BEST BITS: real feature of the house is a huge heated and ventilated conservatory / garden room with built-in bar and basin which is perfect for entertaining

SPACIOUS AND ELEGANT Magnificent family house in Forest Row BUILT IN THE early part of the 20th century, Creevagh is full of character, with ample

space for you to relax, entertain and accommodate the whole family.

Arranged over three floors, the property benefits from eight bedrooms, including a master bedroom with en suite bathroom. In addition, you’ll find five further bathrooms/shower rooms, including a luxurious sauna room.

The expansive ground floor boasts plenty of spacious rooms, with a stunning kitchen/ breakfast room at the hub, off which lies a large sitting room, dining room, drawing room and a huge heated and ventilated conservatory / garden room with built-in bar and basin which is perfect for entertaining. The house also has stunning grounds of about 1.75 acres with a waterfall pond and plenty of mature shrubs and trees.

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Cinema room Sauna Superb master bedroom with en suite Extensive parking and garaging Large kitchen/breakfast room Larder Drawing room Sitting room Dining room Utility Room Study Conservatory/garden room 1.75 acres of well-maintained gardens Waterfall pond Leaded light windows Attractive fireplaces

For full details contact Knight Frank • 01892 515 035 • www.knightfrank.co.uk JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6

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HORSMONDEN

I REGION £1.65 MILLION

Located in a desirable quiet country lane set well away from the road with lovely rural views and attractive gardens of around 6 acres in all with another 10 acres of additional land available by separate negotiation Drawing Room. Sitting Room. Conservatory. Kitchen Breakfast Room. Master Bedroom with En Suite Bathroom. 5 Further Double Bedrooms. 2 Family Bathrooms. Games Room . Triple Car Bay. Double Garage. Workshop, Tennis Court. Swimming Pool. Gardens of about one acre. Further land of over 5 acres with fishing rights on the River Teise. EPC E

APPLY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS OFFICE

LYE GREEN REGION £925,000 - £975,000

TUNBRIDGE WELLS REGION £975,000

WAD HURST REGION £850,000 - £875,000

On the edge of Ashdown Forest a beautifully presented house

Superb penthouse apartment within walking distance of the town centre

Attractive detached family house in a sought after country lane close to mainline station

Sitting Room. Kitchen/ Dining/Family Room . 4 Bedrooms. 2 Bathrooms. 2 Bay Oak Framed Garage. Ample Parking. Gardens about 0 .25 of an acre. EPC D

2 Reception Rooms. Kitchen/ Breakfast Room . 2 En Suite Bedrooms. Mezzanine bedroom and Study Area . Access to Private Roof Terrace. Communal Gardens. 2 Allocated Parking Spaces. EPC C

2 Reception Rooms. Kitchen Breakfast Room .

Utility Room. 5 Bedrooms. 2 Bathrooms. Driveway parking. Gardens about 0 .6 acre of an acre.

EPC F

APPLY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS OFFICE

APPLY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS OFFICE

APPLY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS OFFICE

Battle 01424 775577

Haywards Heath 01444 453181

Pulborough 01798 872081

Tunbridge Wells 01892 512020

London Mayfair Office

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PROPERTY: Maylands LOCATION: West Street, Hunton GUIDE PRICE: £635,000 BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 2 (one en suite) BEST BITS: The large open aspect rear garden

FAMILY IDYLL Five bedroom detached country home in Hunton MAYLANDS IS A well presented five bedroom detached country home in an idyllic rural Kentish village. The spacious ground floor level comprises three reception rooms, including a light and bright conservatory, sitting room with brick fireplace and dining room which can also be used as a study. On this floor you’ll also find a utility room, cloakroom and kitchen with modern fittings. The first floor has four double bedrooms and a single, all with built in wardrobes and a family bathroom with separate shower cubicle. The master bedroom is the largest and benefits from an en suite bathroom. The garden is mainly laid to lawn with planting borders to the sides and a stepping stone path to the far end. At the back of the garden is a brick built barbecue area with a garden shed and children’s playhouse. There is a large front driveway providing ample off road parking and an integral double garage. The property also benefits from shared ownership of an area of land to the back of the rear garden.

which backs on to open countryside n Double aspect sitting room n Utility room n Double garage n Master bedroom with en suite bathroom n Open aspect conservatory n Family bathroom n Large driveway n Decked terrace n Brick barbecue area n Garden shed n Additional access to shared land n Dining room n Kitchen with breakfast bar

For full details contact Lambert & Foster • 01892 832 325 • www.lambertandfoster.co.uk JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6

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21/12/2015 12:33

NEW YEAR TIME TO GET MOVING ...

WE HAD A VERY SUCCESSFUL 2015 AND HAVE SOLD SSTC PROPERTIES IN TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND OUTLYING VILLAGES.

York Road, Tunbridge Wells Price Range £350,000- £365,000 A well-presented , modern two bedroom apartment situated in this town location. Features include ensuite to the Master, Family bathroom , Fitted Kitchen , Lounge/Diner, Juliette balcony and secure underground parking .

Give us a call to discuss what makes Connells different from other agents and the various marketing packages, and Home Finder Service we can offer to both help you sell and find your next property.

Contact us today for a free market appraisal.

Newcomen Road, Tunbridge Wells Price Range £395,000-£435,000

Langton Road, Langton Green Price Range £340,000- £370,000

Sought after St Johns quarter a most attractive semidetached Period property with off road parking.

Accommodation includes Lounge, Cloakroom , Kitchen/Diner, Conservatory and Bathroom. Gardens to front and rear.

This unique character 3 bedroom cottage is situated in the sought after village of Langton Green. The property includes entrance hall, cloak/shower room , a Lounge with balcony, Kitchen. Utility area and Bathroom. Courtyard Garden.

Ravenswood Avenue, Tunbridge Wells Price Range £475,000- £500,000

School Hill, Lamberhurst Guide price £235,000

This 3 bedroom semi-detached property is situated in the sought after St James area. It provides families with a convenient location for local schools and town. Accommodation includes. two receptions. kitchen, ensuite to master. Garage.

A two bedroom ground floor apartment set within this beautiful building in the heart of Lamberhurst. Bay fronted Lounge with feature fireplace, kitchen/diner and shower room. Communal garden and allocated parking.

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21/12/2015 10:08

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

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PROPERTY: Coachmans LOCATION: Clenches Farm Road, Sevenoaks GUIDE PRICE: £1,980,000

DELIGHTFUL DETAILS Light and bright period home in Sevenoaks in private setting COACHMANS IS A substantial period house, believed to have been built in 1874.

Constructed of Kentish ragstone under a tile roof and arranged over two floor, it offers spacious family living areas suitable for both formal and informal use and is well-positioned to enjoy its surrounding gardens and grounds. A two storey extension was added in 1999 and further enhancements in 2005. It has recently been redecorated throughout. The house is full of character and includes some lovely features including Italian marble flooring quarried in Tuscany, together with Victorian cast iron radiators. There are five bedrooms and four bathrooms in total, including a well-proportioned master bedroom. The gardens are a delightful feature of the property, and have been divided into three separate areas, with herbaceous gardens, level lawn and a productive kitchen garden.

BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 4 BEST BITS: The wonderful bespoke kitchen/ breakfast room constructed by Chambers furniture of solid oak with pippy oak veneers, including a solid oak Welsh dresser and Kirkstone slate worktops. n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n

Entrance hall Drawing room Sitting room Kitchen/breakfast room Music room Study Utility room Secondary kitchen Cloakroom Master bedroom 2 bedroom suites and 2 further bedrooms Family bathroom Fireplaces Double garage Mature gardens

For full details contact Knight Frank Sevenoaks • 01732 744 477 • www.knightfrank.co.uk JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6

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EXQUISITE ESTATE Exceptional rural estate with winery and business opportunities in Haywards Heath IN DELIGHTFUL RURAL SETTING, Kingscote Wine Estate is nestled within beautiful

Kingscote Valley near East Grinstead. The farm extends to approximately 152 acres with an established vineyard and orchard, stunning farmhouse, coach house cottage, restored 15th century barn, winery, shop, fishing lakes and equestrian facilities. The principal property, Mill Place Farmhouse, sits in a prominent position enjoying views across the vineyard. Packed with character features, it includes five reception rooms, an oak-framed conservatory, farmhouse kitchen/breakfast room, five bedrooms and two bathrooms.

There is a converted outbuilding used as a two-bedroom holiday cottage. There is also an impressive restored barn with bar and kitchen, used for events and as a cookery school, and a fully equipped winery, office, shop and substantial equestrian facilities.

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PROPERTY: Kingscote Wine Estate LOCATION: Vowels Lane, East Grinstead GUIDE PRICE: £4,500,000

BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 3 BEST BITS: The stunning views from the principal property over the adjoining vineyards

n Grassland farm n Commercial vineyard n Grade II listed farmhouse n Converted coach house currently run as holiday let n Restored 15th century barn used as visitor centre and cookery school n Winery, shop and office n Equestrian facilities n Vines, orchards, fishing lakes, pasture and woodland n Around 152.3 acres in all

For full details contact Savills • 01444 446066 • www.savills.co.uk JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6

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21/12/2015 13:10

See what's new for 2016 ...

Mayfield

Guide price £795,000

Attached Grade II Listed family home· Central location just off the High Street· Spacious accommodation • Three reception rooms • Fitted kitchen • Four double bedrooms • Two bath/shower rooms • Large cellar and store rooms • South facing rear garden • Far reaching views • Tandem garage • EPC: Exempt MAYFIELD OFFICE 01435 873 999

Paddock Wood 01892 832 325

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I

Mayfield 01435 873 999

View our full selection of properties atwww.lambertandfoster.co.uk

Hunton

Guide price £635,000

Five bedroom detached country home • Set in an idyllic rural village • Three reception rooms • Kitchen/breakfast room with a separate utility room • Driveway and an integral double garage • Backing onto open countryside with front and rear gardens • EPC: D PADDOCK WOOD OFFICE 01892 832 325

Cran brook 01580 712 888

-S!f ARLA

(~ RICS

•Free market appraisal applies to residential sales only

21/12/2015 10:05

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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PROPERTY: Manor Cottage LOCATION: High Street, Headcorn GUIDE PRICE: £649,000 BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 3 (2 en suite) BEST BITS: The light and bright drawing room with a wealth of beams, Inglenook fireplace with brick hearth, original bread oven and

TOP GRADE Newly restored grade II listed cottage in Headcorn MANOR COTTAGE has been beautifully restored and modernised to an exacting

standard to make your new home everything you have ever dreamed of. This delightful detached Grade II Listed property has a generous garden to the rear, off-road parking, plus planning consent to erect a two bay garage. Located on the popular High Street, this cottage spans three floors and comprises five bedrooms, two with en suite bathrooms and plenty of living space for the whole family. Throughout the property you’ll discover many original features including exposed beams, Iglenook fireplaces and Victorian radiators, as well as a wealth of modern additions. Situated in a central location on Headcorn’s High Street, this cottages exudes country charm while being in the hub of the community – it’s just a short stroll from all of the village’s amenities including the restaurants, boutiques and Headcorn station.

Bethersden ‘Marble’ breast. n Drawing room n Sitting room n Kitchen/dining room n Study n Snug n Laundry room n Cloakroom n Planning consent to erect a two bay garage n Restored and modernised n Exposed ceiling and wall timbers n Working fireplaces n Generous rear garden n No onward chain n Off-road parking

For full details contact Country Property Group • 01580 211 888 • www.countrypropertygroup.com JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6

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Q

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lL[J WOOD & PILCHER

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

SOUTH BOROUGH

HEATH FIELD

TONBRIDGE

CROWBOROUGH

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

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

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

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

The Cross, Crowbcrough East Sussex TN6 1AL Sales 01892 665666 a-owborough@woodandpilcher.co.uk Letting & Management 01892 664666 lettings@woocandpilcher.com

Associated Park Lane London Office

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21/12/2015 10:11

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SO

PROPERTY: Ham Farmhouse LOCATION: Withyham, East Sussex GUIDE PRICE: £1,795,000 BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 3 BEST BITS: The magnificent first floor solar room with vaulted ceiling, cambered tie beam and arched braces.

COUNTRY LIFE Charming farmhouse with additional buildings in Withyham BELIEVED TO BE of medieval origin with later additions, Ham Farmhouse is a delightful

oak framed Grade II listed Sussex farmhouse. The well-proportioned living space comprises a family room, a more formal drawing room with a wide brick inglenook fireplace, a dining room, a farmhouse kitchen with an oil-fired Aga, and a superb vaulted garden room. Five double bedrooms, each with a lovely outlook, are arranged over the first and second floors, together with three bath/shower rooms.

This property also includes the Oast Barn – a substantial detached building which has been converted into useful ancillary office space. The superb grounds extend to about 3.8 acres and include an orchard and kitchen gardens.

n Master bedroom with walk-in wardrobe, en suite bathroom and cloakroom n Cellar n Gardens, woodland and pond n Substantial outbuildings including office space and two barns n Family room n Drawing room n Kitchen/dining room n Vaulted garden room n Utility room n Five double bedrooms

For full details contact Savills Tunbridge Wells • 01892 507 000 • www.savills.co.uk JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6

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SO

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SECURITY

PROPERTY: Horns Cottage LOCATION: Delmonden Lane, Hawkhurst GUIDE PRICE: £669,900 BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 2 (1 en suite) BEST BITS: The drawing room with its triple aspect and glazed doors which open to the west facing garden.

COTTAGE WITH CHARACTER Charming period cottage in countryside surroundings in Hawkhurst HORNS COTTAGE is a delightful listed property dating in part from circa 1600 and set

in lovely gardens. The present owners have extended the property to incorporate an excellent kitchen/breakfast room with gas fired Aga and various integrated appliances.

The garage has also been converted into a versatile home office/games room with first floor studio room. Four charming bedrooms are situated over the first and second floors together with two bath/shower rooms (one en suite). The pretty cottage gardens are well established and lie to the rear of the house, abutting adjoining farmland. This property has many charming features, including exposed timbers and beams, oak flooring and open fireplaces.

n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n

2 reception rooms Kitchen/breakfast room Utility room Cloakroom 4 bedrooms (2 attic) 2 bath/shower rooms Cottage gardens Office and games room Greenhouse Off road parking Garden store In Cranbrook School catchment area Gas fired Aga Open fireplaces Oak flooring Exposed timbers/beams

For full details contact Savills Cranbrook • 01580 720 161 • www.savills.co.uk 174

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est.1 828

When experience counts...

bra cI<ett s

Tunbridge Wells

Tunbridge Wells

Speldhurst

NEW YEAR, NEW HOME? Millions of buyers start their search over the Christmas holidays.

Historically, the perception has been that the spring market sees the most activity, but it is in fact the start of January when the market gets busy as buyers are keen to execute plans made during the festive break.

If you are contemplating a move in 2016, don't delay; our experienced and local team can offer you a free market appraisal, or help you with your search for a new property.

.J-.J-~-~-(' f' (' (' With Season's Greetings and best wishes for the year ahead From all at Bracketts

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• • • • • • • •

Kitchens Bathrooms Extensions Loft Conversions Plumbing Electrical Brickwork Re-pointing

• • • • • • • •

Driveways Decking Fencing Roofing Painting Decorating Rendering Plastering

Building, Property Refurbishments & Landscaping

We will give you FREE ADVICE on what you can achieve whatever your budget

T: 01892 544988 M: 07808 505 040

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www.mulberrybuilding.com

22/12/2015 09:59

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk llU: St.l~

lUIES

THE .....TIM ES

Tunbridge Wells - £1,495,000

Lamberhurst - £799,950

A substantial 6 bedroom detached Edwardian house approaching 4,000 sq ft situated in a popular and convenient location with spacious accommodation and many fine period features. EPC: E

An individual and charming 4 bedroom Grade II listed house converted from a Victorian stable block and forming part of a historic courtyard within the majestic grounds of the Bayham Estate.

Impressive 4 bedroom detached barn conversion with a spacious interior with attractive outlooks, excellent outbuildings and just under 1 acre. EPC:E

A deceptively spacious 3 bedroom townhouse centrally located less than a mile from the famous Pantiles with a large driveway, mature south facing garden and views across Tunbridge Wells. EPC: D

Tunbridge Wells - £565,000

Five Ashes, Mayfield - £799,950

Tunbridge Wells - £399,950

A beautifully renovated and extended 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom detached house presented in superb order throughout with mature gardens and enjoying views towards the neighbouring countryside. EPC:C

Attractive 2 bedroom end of terrace house situated in a highly regarded area in the southern part of the town with the benefit of a private garden and a garage. No onward chain. EPC: C

Tunbridge Wells Office

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

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Crowborough - ÂŁ1, 100,000

An extremely well presented, 5 bedroom, attractive, newly built (Spring 201 S) detached Millwood Designer Home which has been designed and finished to an exceptionally high standard throughout with many fixtures and fittings upgraded from the original specifications to enhance the design. EPC:B

Tunbridge Wells - ÂŁ1,250,000

This very impressive 5 bedroom park side Victorian town house has been carefully restored to its former wonderful elegance and character.

An extensive renovation and refurbishment programme has created an exceptional family house with many original features restored but also updated. EPC: D

DC Untitled-48 3

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. . Knight ••Frank

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Knight k

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LANDLORDS WANTED in Tunbridge Wells

We've Succeeded - More are Needed!

Are you a Landlord looking to rent out your property?

Or perhaps you already have tenants but want a professional and pro-active Letting Agent to look after the management of the tenancy?

Andrews Letting 8: Management of Tunbridge Wells have an in-house property management team to look after your interests as a Landlord including: Annual Rent reviews • Rent Collection services • Loyalty discounts for multi-listing landlords Rent 8: Legal protection services • Access to a FREE Legal help line

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

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ANDREWS

Beulah Road, TN1

Guide £895,000

In need of modernisation this stunning semi detached period home is situated in the favoured St James area. Set over four floors, with 8 bedrooms, 4 reception rooms, 2 bathrooms, parking and a 95' x 37' rear garden. Internal viewing is essential to truly appreciate this lovely home with many character features.

Energy Efficiency Rating : F

The Twitten, TN6

Guide £575,000

Located in a private road in a sought after location, this individual detached home is on a lovely plot with detached double garage and behind a gated driveway. Entrance hall/ reception area, lounge, dining room, kitchen, conservatory, two bedrooms and en-suite.

Upstairs there is an additional bedroom and bathroom. Gardens extend on three sides of the property.

Energy Efficiency Rating : D

South View Road, TN4

£345,000

Individual detached period cottage on the Tunbridge Wells/Southborough border. The property features oak fitted cupboards and period fireplaces, with a log burning stove in the living room. Hallway, 2 reception rooms, fitted kitchen with French doors to garden, landing, 2 double bedrooms, generous family bathroom, gardens to front and rear. No onward chain.

London Road, TN1

Guide £169,950

Situated just 0.25 miles from Tunbridge Wells mainline train station and historic High Street and within 0.5 mile of the historic Pantiles offering boutique shops and restaurants, this ground floor apartment is in a super location! Open plan living, double bedroom and separate bathroom make up the accommodation - sold with no chain!

Energy Efficiency Rating : C

Energy Efficiency Rating: F

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SO

ADVERTORIAL

DO YOU NEED EXTRA SPACE? With six display villages across Kent, including one in Sevenoaks, Johnsons supplies and installs top-quality log cabins and garden buildings to suit all requirements and budgets. We find out more about how they can help you make the most of where you live and give your home room to breathe ARE YOU THINKING about extending

your living space? Have you considered a log cabin as an option?

Garden Buildings are proving more popular than ever as an alternative to a more costly home extension or loft conversion. Whilst home improvements can involve extensive building works and upheaval, a cabin can provide a simple, more straightforward solution while still adding value to your home. Their versatility means that they can be put to a wide variety of uses and offer year round, fully insulated comfort.

For example, if you work from home but are looking for more space then a garden office or workshop could be the answer. A dedicated workspace will enable you to keep your home and work life separate whilst still giving you the “no commute” hassle.

If it’s more entertaining space you need then why not create a fun environment 184

with the addition of a bar, big screen TV and games console for you and your friends to enjoy. Or how about adding a dining room table and chairs for a great place to hold dinner parties? If you enjoy keeping fit but would prefer to avoid crowded health clubs, hefty fees and the effort involved in getting there and back, then a home gym is also something you could consider.

There are plenty of options for the family too. The children could enjoy their own playroom, created in a safe environment. They would love having their own play area and you can get as imaginative with the design as you’d like!

Finding the right cabin for you doesn’t have to be difficult. Johnsons Garden Buildings have 6 display villages across Kent all with a great range of cabins for you to consider. From deciding on the right design for your home and needs, to advising on the additional extras you may

want to add such as electrics, insulation, heating and flooring, their team can help.

They offer a free site visit to ensure that everything will work within your space.

Once ordered and delivered your cabin can be erected within as little as one or two days. Johnsons also now offer a fully comprehensive finance package with monthly payment options to spread the cost, subject to application and status. So just sit back, relax and let Johnsons create the extra space you need.

0845 459 9444 or go to www.needextraspace.co.uk Johnsons works in association with Tradehelp. Tradehelp acts as a credit intermediary and only offers products from Barclays Partner Finance.

Tradehelp is a trading name of Heatkey Ltd, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (659069), registered in England (03712438)

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21/12/2015 10:35

GARDENS

SO

Glorious Gardens This month Emma Davies who runs the Walled Nursery in Hawkhurst with her husband Monty is preparing and planting for the year ahead…

J

anuary is a time to get organised for

order those first. You can sow another

two crops over every few years to let nature

the gardening year ahead. Seed

batch in March to extend your flowering

do some of the work for you. This is why

catalogues arrive on the doormat to

season, keeping you in a steady supply of

experienced gardeners just chop down

tempt you into growing new plants – try to

these deliciously scented beauties

their beans leaving the roots in the ground,

think of what you need rather than all that

throughout the summer. As Sweet Peas are

that’s one job saved for you!

you want! The novice gardener tends to

hardy annuals, you don’t need to worry

end up with boxes of seeds that could

about frosts but growing them in a

a great time to plant bare rooted plants

never all be sown, the more experienced

greenhouse is ideal to give them that head

such as hedging, fruit and roses. By

gardener tends to buy just a few packets

start. Most other annuals can be sown in

planting when they are dormant, you give

and use them all. We make notes of plants

early April in a greenhouse or on a

them a chance to concentrate on putting on

that have performed well and those that

windowsill. Part of the fun of gardening is

root growth prior to spring when they put

didn’t quite make the grade; it’s amazing

trying new plants, look for those plants

on leaves and grow towards flowering. A

how quickly you can forget this once

which will flower in the first year when

good dollop of compost or well-rotted

everything has died down. Annual plants

grown from seed so that you really get

manure gives the plants a boost and the

are always worth growing as they can fill in

your money’s worth.

best start. If you need to split up any of

gaps and perform their socks off in their short life span.

Sweet Peas can be sown as early as February so you need to make sure you

If you grow your own vegetables, use this

If the ground isn’t frozen solid, January is

your plants, the same principle applies.

quiet month in the garden to plan which

Take a space and dig out the whole clump,

plants to grow. We can all slip into the habit

you then use your spade to slice through

of growing the same plants, think about

and make smaller clumps which you can

how much you enjoyed them –did the

then plant elsewhere or pot up. Got a plant

whole family eat them or were you

that’s in the wrong place? Now’s the time,

struggling to use them up? I’ve always

dig it up and put it where it’s more suited,

grown beetroot, but it’s really only me that

let it get settled before having to think

likes them and even then, I can only eat so

about putting on new growth.

many! They’re easy to buy in the

The darkest months are behind us now,

greengrocers, so why not scrub them off

soon the snowdrops will be appearing,

your list and try something new instead?

followed by the Daffodils and then you’re

Remember, to get the most out of your

suddenly hurtling towards the busiest

vegetable patch, you should ideally be

gardening season. So, take a well-earned

rotating your crops. Legumes, such as

rest whilst you can!

runner beans or broad beans have nitrogen fixing nodules on their roots; Brassicas

Happy Gardening,

need nitrogen to grow well so swap the

Emma

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

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

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21/12/2015 10:15

GARDENS

SO

READING UP

The gardening books you need to have on your shelves and in your sheds this year

COFFEE TABLE

GROW YOUR OWN

horticultural jewels. Some 35 English private gardens, thoughtfully selected by the writer and designer Tania Compton,

If you’re

autumn’s most

are vividly described in the words of their

thinking of

talked-about

owners, who bring an astonishing sense

getting an

botanical books

of intimacy to their own creations, as well

allotment this

is The Cabaret

as their collaborations with some of the

year, or you’re

leading garden designers of today.

wondering

PA Photo/Profile Books

QUIRKY dig out some fascinating facts about gardening,

PA Photo/Icon

look no further

Find out the intricacies of how flowers communicate with their pollinators in PA Photo/Kew

awardwinning

PRACTICAL

wildlife photographer Heather

If you’ve never grown

(Kew, £25). Through her stunning

plants of any

photography, see how plants use colour,

sort, edible

shape and guiding lines to attract insects

or otherwise,

and birds, which gather nectar in most

bag a copy of

The Private Gardens of England, edited

by Tania Compton, (Constable £75) is a glorious celebration of the art of gardening through some of the country’s hidden

PA Photo/Kyle

Angel’s dazzling tome, Pollination Power

unusual ways.

PA Photo/Constable

than The Sceptical Gardener (Icon, £12.99) by The Telegraph’s columnist Ken Thompson. He asks – and answers – questions like, ‘How can a gardener improve the flavour of their veg?’ and ‘What do bees do that improves strawberries?’ It’s a dip-in miscellany of gardening titbits, perfect if you want to spout unusual green-fingered facts at the relatives over dinner.

Frances Tophill’s

First-Time Gardener: How To Plan, Plant And Enjoy Your Garden (Kyle, £16.99). Whether you’ve bought your first home, are new to renting or just feel that you should do something about the jungle outside your door, Frances will help you to create an original garden, from the initial site survey through to the design, hard and soft landscaping, building, planting and aftercare.

what to grow on your existing plot, The RHS Allotment Handbook & Planner (Octopus, £12.99) is an invaluable guide to help you choose. Experts from the Royal Horticultural Society take all abilities through the different stages, and the book includes a planner setting out seasons, what should be sown and grown - and when.

If you want to

DESIGN Anyone looking for inspirational design will welcome

PA Photo/Timber

Of Plants: Botany And The Imagination by Richard Mabey (Profile, £20), which draws on plants in history, art and literature. Mabey, author of Flora Britannica, explores plants that have awoken our sense of wonder and changed our ideas about science and beauty. Picked from every walk of life, the self-contained chapters feature everything from weeds to water lilies, featuring high-quality prints and drawings.

PA Photo/Octopus

One of this

The Art Of Gardening

by R William Thomas (Timber, £25), which focuses on Chanticleer, a 37-acre public garden in Pennsylvania, renowned for encouraging experimentation in design and many areas including a fantasy garden, formal borders and woodland shades. Readers will learn how to make the most of a landscape’s natural features, integrating structures and creating themes to tie areas together, as well as tips on the right plants for specific purposes.

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187

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Best quality. Best prices .

~~~ The best beds in the world

ROLF BENZ

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the ultimate recliner

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Best service. Guaranteed.

Wells Bedding and Interiors 44 High Street, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1XF

01892 535555

www.wellsinteriors.co.uk

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since 1925

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By Appointment to Her MaiJ!!!eJ~~ Queen G.Collins&Sonsl!d Royal Tunbridge Wells

Of). Oiollins

& ~ons

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76/78, High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1YB Telephone: (01892) 534018 Fax: (01892) 510536 email: info@gcollinsandsons.com 路 www.gcollinsandsons.com

Chronograph Ref. 5170G

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