So Wealden November 2015

SHAKEN NOT STIRRED GET THE 007 EXPERIENCE IN THE NEW ASTON MARTIN

merry markets TAKE A WINTER BREAK THAT REALLY SPARKLES

“It’s the kind of restaurant perfect for a first date”

HOMES & INTERIORS 66 GLORIOUS PAGES OF PROPERTIES IN AND AROUND

THE WEALD

- DON GIOVANNI TUNBRIDGE WELLS

FASHION INSIDER SHOWCASING SOME OF THE BEST ON THE HIGH STREET

Penshurst Place

WE FIND OUT HOW THE GRAND HOUSE KEEPS ITS CHARM

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A BREWER “Sampling the beer is not always nice when you’re hungover”

FUN SPONGES

“When did we become a town of kill-joys?”

THE real james

BOND Sean Connery is still the nation’s number one spy

NOVEMBER 2015 £1.50 WWW.SOMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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Designers and makers of handmade kitchens

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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 HEAD OF SALES Joe De Kwant Stoner jstoner@onemediauk.co.uk EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Richard Moore rmoore@onemediauk.co.uk PUBLISHED BY

WELCOME TO YOUR NOVEMBER EDITION OF SO As the nights draw in and the leaves begin to fall, it can be tempting to curl up indoors with a glass of red and hibernate, but we live in such a beautiful part of the world it seems a shame not to take advantage of the great outdoors whenever we get the chance. That’s why, on page 28 we’ve featured some of the best local areas to get out and about in this autumn (you can still have that glass of red waiting when you get in from the cold!)

With the recent release of the much anticipated Bond film Spectre, we thought it only right to take a look back at the best of Bond, and what makes the films so iconic (pg 42). Our cover star, Sean Connery has been named the nation’s favourite James Bond, but I’d love to know whether you agree, or whether you hold a soft spot for one of the others. Sadly, I might share a name with the international spy but I’m yet to get my hands on an Aston Martin collection…

Speaking of which, this month the new Aston Martin DB9 GT graces our motoring pages (pg 170) and if there’s anything that’s going to make you feel like a suave super sleuth, it’s this speed machine. Bond’s favourite tipple of the moment might be a Martini or Vesper, but this month we’ve been indulging in some fine wines instead, with drinks connoisseur Olly Smith (pg 122).

We’ve barely lit the fireworks for Guy Fawkes night, but our thoughts are already turning to a reasonably big annual celebration which happens to fall on December 25 every year. If you’re looking for a little festive getaway, we’ve compiled a list of the best Christmas (sorry) markets, where you can get into the spirit in this country or further afield. (pg164).

As always, let me know what you think. I’m off to start saving for an Aston collection…

EDITOR

CONTENTS

cbond@onemediauk.co.uk

10 NEWS

49 THE FASHION

Blooming success for

Local boutiques share

Hawkhurst florist

exclusive shoot

11 LETTERS

95 SOCIAL

Watch out for wildlife

Folk festival fun

in Benenden

in Tenterden

14 INTERVIEW

122 THE FOOD

Drink developer talks

An evening of fine wining

pint process

with Olly Smith

28 LOCAL VIEW

170 THE MOTORS

Enjoy the great outdoors

Drive like 007 in the new

across the Weald

Aston Martin DB9 GT

42 THE CELEBRITY

189 THE INTERIORS

Sean Connery takes the

Go for gold with copper

crown as best Bond

inspired homeware

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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 SPORT SQUASHED Squash fans in the Tenterden area will have to take their racquets elsewhere, as from this month Tenterden Leisure Centre has removed its squash courts in order to expand its gym facilities. Players will now have to travel to Cranbrook or Biddenden to use their squash courts, while the TLC expansion plans also see the crèche relocated to another area of the building.

‘As squash usage has declined to below 15% of the squash courts capacity, it is with reluctance that the decision to remove the squash court to provide additional gym facilities has been taken,’ it states on the TLC website. ‘Use of the gym has been growing significantly and, due to this, a decision to expand on this area has been made.’

CURLING QUEENS The England Ladies’ Curling Team are raising money on Pledgesports to fund their trip to compete in this month’s European Curling Championships in Esjberg, Denmark. The team of five Olympic hopefuls, from areas including Benenden and Hawkhurst, have qualified for the tournament, but are struggling to make ends meet, as three of them are students. They’re offering signed memorabilia and curling coaching in return for donations. “We are asking if people will support our team to give us the chance to progress to the world stage,” the girls say. “Going forward, we want to make it to the world curling championships and we also have huge ambitions to break into the British Olympic team in the future.”

worth it for the joy Astilbe & Sorrel brings,” says Sophie. “But, to be recognised by a large organisation is a real honour.” Sophie is resident florist at the Walled Nursery, and opened her shop in 2014.

COSTLY CRANBROOK

BRILLIANT BOUQUETS Congratulations are in order for a local florist, after she was named ‘newcomer of the year’ in the British Florist association industry awards. Sophie Hill, who runs the Astilbe & Sorrel flower shop in Hawkhurst, beat off stiff competition to be crowned the winner in her category. “The sore hands and late nights are

10

Cranbrook is the sixth most expensive market town in the UK, Lloyds Bank have found. One of two Kent towns on the list, above West Malling in eighth place, the average property price in Cranbrook is £392,000 – nearly £150,000 over the national average.

Buckinghamshire town Beaconsfield topped the list. The average property there sets buyers back nearly £1,000,000 – over double the cost in second-placed Lewes.

Lloyds’ mortgages director Andy Mason says: “Homes in market towns typically command a significant premium over their neighbouring towns. The quality of life benefits often associated with living in such locations are still proving popular among homebuyers.”

WORLDS APART Uckfield Community Technology College suffered an invasion of Daleks, Sith and aliens – but, fortunately, it was just part of their Out Of This World fashion show.

Space-themed heroes and villains costumes were made by lower school textiles students and worn on the catwalk by teachers and students, with Tron, Star Wars and Star Trek all referenced. This culminated in two Doctor Who characters fighting over a toy Tardis – only to be ‘killed’ by the Daleks and Cybermen.

Also showcased was wearable art, created by GCSE students, and paper outfits, made in just a fortnight by A-level textiles students.

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LETTERS

SO

...AND VIEWS

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

Ed: Pleased to be of service!

Check out page 21 to see what’s happening this month.

RESPECT YOUR YOUNGERS

GOING INCOGNITO I’ve been meaning to write to you for a while now to express how much I enjoy your ‘undercover eater’ feature. Being a bit of a foodie myself I love to read about the local dining scene, but it’s even better when the place gets a good review without knowing they were coming under scrutiny. A friend of mine is a food critic and whenever I’ve dined with her we’ve had the best service, enjoyed the finest wines and gorged on exquisite food, but, in my opinion it’s a bit false. What I love about ‘undercover…’ is that you find the real gems – the places who aren’t just playing up to you so they’ll get a good review. Keep up the good work, and, of course, let me know if you’re ever in need of an extra reviewer!

DANIEL HALL, Tenterden Ed: Get yourself a disguise and we may have a deal…

bit more careful than usual and stopping for animals on the road. If we keep it up, we can truly refer to ourselves as a nation of animal lovers.

MARK DAVIES, Benenden Ed: Keep it up, Kentish drivers!

NEW GIRL IN TOWN

ON THE ROAD Living by a country road, I tend to see a lot of roadkill in the autumn and winter as the nights draw in. But I’ve noticed this month that drivers going past are being a

When moving to Cranbrook back in June, I was excited about living in such a beautiful part of the country – but afraid it might be dull. However, I’ve been delighted to discover through So magazine and the local community that there’s plenty going on round here, with none of the hassle and overcrowding that you get in cities. I can’t wait to see what Kent has in store for November!

LUCY ROBERTS, Cranbrook

You frequently hear that young people are rude and disrespectful to their elders.

After visiting a local shoe shop and witnessing an older shopper screaming at a young employee because the till was malfunctioning, I’m inclined to think it’s the other way round!

Shopping may be stressful, but taking it out on retail assistants is never acceptable. We could all do with being more patient and understanding, particularly to a generation who have inherited a dire job and housing market.

SHARON BRIDGE, Heathfield Ed: A few manners go a long way…

GIRL POWER Disappointed as I am about England’s woeful Rugby World Cup showing last month, it just showed once again how much our women’s national teams overshadow the men’s in terms of achievements! The women’s rugby team are reigning world champions, but it’s received nowhere near as much coverage as the men’s team’s failure – it’s an outrage.

GARETH WILLIAMS, via email Ed: We agree - come on boys, we can’t do all the work!

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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ADVERTORIAL

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INTERVIEW

A day in the life of a brewer Glenn Whatman, 29, spends his days making beer at the Old Dairy Brewery in Tenterden early start

measurements – this enables you to

My day starts by waking up to BBC

keep on track and know that you’re

Six music nice and early. Living in

getting it spot on. But when the

Tenterden allows me to take a

readings are wrong and it doesn’t

leisurely stroll to work picking up a

go your way, you have to improvise,

coffee on the way to enjoy when I

which is never a bad thing. Also

get there. I get to work for 8:30 in the

using quality ingredients helps.

morning, sometimes earlier if I’m brewing.

morning rituals

beer ideas With so many different styles out there it’s easy to get inspiration, but

The days when I’m not brewing my

not quite as easy staying sober

morning involves a lot of emails and

while doing it! Also ingredients play

paperwork, ordering stock,

a major part in development of

developing and updating brew

different beers. New and exciting

sheets and recipes, and researching

hops are popping up all the time so I

the latest beers and trends.

like to play around on the 50L test kit

brewing begins

and see what people think.

On a brew day the first thing I do

tried and tasted

when I get in is heat up the mash

I do get to do a lot of tasting as part

tun, ready for brewing. Then all my

of my job, but sometimes it’s not as

focus for the rest of the day is

nice as you’d think, especially when

dedicated to this. Here at Old Dairy

you’re hungover and having to

we brew a whole range of ales

sample the beer before it goes out

using a single infusion mash

in the morning!

(mixing water and malted barley) to produce wort (hot sugary malty

top testing

water). We then boil the sugary

My favourite part of the job is

wort, this includes three to five hop

making and brewing my own

additions in this 60 minute process.

recipes on the little test kit. Although

This sugary hoppy wort is chilled to

not all of the test brews come out as

20°c and the yeast is added. The

I planned, it’s trial and error, and

beer is then left for a few days to

great fun. All the little sample brews

ferment and once this is done it is

I do get put in the shop for people to

chilled further to 6°c and allowed to

buy and tell us what they think.

condition. After a few days of conditioning in the tank it is then

last orders

ready to rack into cask or bottle.

I try to finish around 5:30 but my

quality control

days vary in so many ways and every day is unique. My evenings

There are so many factors that

are spent socialising with friends

come into play when making beer.

and researching (drinking beer)!

To help consistency there are certain times when you take readings and

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www.olddairybrewery.com

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PERFECT FESTIVE SETTING The magnificent manor house of Ashdown Park Hotel, nestling in its 186 acre estate in the heart of the Ashdown Forest, provides the perfect welcoming setting for traditional and cosy Christmas and New Year celebrations.

THE PERFECT GIFT If you' re looking for a Christmas gift for that person who has everything then our gift vouchers make the ideal present!

They can be used towards any experience at the hotel including afternoon tea, overnight stays and spa treatments.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS Christmas Table Decoration Workshop with Afternoon Tea - Thursday 26th November-£39.50 Christmas Fayre Lunch & Dinner - Tuesday lst to Wednesday 23rd December - from £26.00 Christmas Dinner Dance - llth & 18th December - £69.50 Christmas Party Nights - llth, 18th & 19th December - £62.50 Boxing Day Lunch-Saturday 26th December - £52.50 Christmas Day Lunch - Friday 25th December - £120.00 SOLD OUT New Year's Day Brunch - Thursday lst January- £52.50

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EVENTS

SO

NOVEMBER

CALENDAR 5TH » Remember Remember

NT/JOHN MILLER

This month sees plenty of excellent firework celebrations, but if you fancy seeing some rockets and Catherine wheels on Bonfire Night itself, head to the village of Newenden on November 5. As well as a firework display and bonfire by the River Rother, there’ll be refreshments in the form of homemade soup, burgers and hotdogs and some warming mulled wine to keep you toasty during the event.

Gates open at 6pm. Entrance costs £2 for adults or £5 for a car. Children go free. www.newenden.org

6TH » Soldier On

7TH » Firework Fun

12TH » Pictures Perfect

It may have been a century ago, but the First World War is a continual source of fascination.

From Friday November 6 to the end of January, Scotney Castle is putting on Arthur’s War, a display of possessions belonging to First World War commanding officer Arthur Hussey. Found in a black trunk in the building’s attic last year, his wartime diaries in particular offer a fascinating insight into a fraught period of world history.

The exhibition starts at 11am daily. Standard admission prices to Scotney Castle apply. No booking is required.

“Remember, remember the fifth of November” is the famous saying –­ but this year you’ll need to remember Saturday November 7 as the date of Dunorlan Park’s annual firework extravaganza in Tunbridge Wells. Featuring rides, local food and drink, and the all-important fireworks, it’s a great night out for a good cause, with all profits going to local charities.

The fireworks kick off at 7pm, but the gates are open from 5.30pm.

Advance tickets are £6 for adults and £4 for children.

Visit www.rtwrt.org for more details.

The Cranbrook Art Show returns to mid Kent this November for the 22nd time.

Carefully curated by the organising team, it’s a three-day showcase of a diverse array of arts, among them paintings, sculptures, ceramics, jewellery and textile art by artists in the region. The exhibits are available for purchase and, best of all, make for affordable gifts in the expensive run up to Christmas. It begins at 10am on Thursday 10 November. Entrance is free. For more information, visit www.cranbrookartshow.org.uk NOVEMBER 2 0 1 5

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EVENTS

16TH » Winter Wardrobe

NT/JAMES DOBSON

If your wardrobe seems tired and drab in the run up to the Christmas party season, look no further than the Expensive Mistakes Autumn Sale at The Bell Inn in Ticehurst. New and barely worn clothes, including designer pieces, are on offer thanks to Friends of Sussex Hospices, who will donate the proceeds to local hospices. The two day sale gets underway at 6pm on Monday November 16, with complimentary wine for customers on the first day.

Entry is free, although donations are welcome. To find out more, see www.friendsofsussexhospices.org.uk

13TH » Arty Time

20TH » Ice To See You

21ST » Deck The Halls

Tunbridge Wells will be getting crafty on Friday November 13 and Saturday November 14, as craft fair organisers Apple Ducks bring their successful pop-up craft emporium to the Royal Victoria Place. Hosted in the exhibition area outside Marks and Spencer, you’ll find artwork, pottery, children’s clothes, handmade jewellery, soaps and even gin made by local craftspeople.

The event is free and runs from 9am to 6pm. For more information, go to www.appleducks.com

Open from November 20 to January 3, there’s plenty of time to get your skates on at Calverley Grounds’ open-air ice rink in Tunbridge Wells. Now in its fifth successive year, the rink is prepared for more ice queens and kings than ever, with capacity for 250 skaters at a time and additional parent and toddler sessions in the morning. There will be a Fuggles Beer Café pop-up on hand to provide refreshments for thirsty skaters.

Prices start from £9.50 for adults and £7 for children. To book, call 01892 554 645

Not found that perfect Christmas wreath for your front door? Why not make your own? Sissinghurst Castle Gardens are hosting a garland-making workshop on Saturday November 21 and a wreathmaking workshop on Sunday November 22 from 10am to 1pm. All materials and refreshments are provided, so all you need to bring is creativity and some festive spirit!

Tickets are £45 per person and must be booked in advance. Call 08442 491 895 to guarantee your spot.

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EVENTS

SO

28TH » Retro Sounds

NT/ DAVID LEVENSON)

Make your life pitch perfect by coming down to the Tunbridge Wells Record Fair at King Charles Church Hall in Warwick Park. Thousands of CDs and vinyl records in every genre imaginable will be up for grabs, alongside music magazines, books and memorabilia. If you love nothing more than musical bargains, or are looking for that one rare record you’ve always wanted, then this is the place for you. The fair lasts from 9.30am to 3pm.

Entrance is free.

26TH » Let There Be Light!

27TH » Chartwell Christmas

28TH » Joy Round The World

Westerham’s annual Christmas lights switch on is always a spectacle. This year should be no different, with former JLS heart-throb JB Gill performing the honours, Father Christmas arriving on a sled pulled by shire horses, and delicious hot chestnuts on sale. It’s also a great opportunity to support the town through your Christmas shopping; shops on Westerham’s high street are opening late and candlelit market stalls will be selling seasonal wares.

Entry and parking are free. The event starts at 6pm, with the switch on at 6.30pm.

Mulled wine, mince pies and stalls packed with a smorgasbord of Christmas goods – Chartwell gets its festive calendar underway with a Christmas Market offering all of these and more. The three-day market is located in the estate’s lush gardens and shop, between 10am to 4pm from Friday November 27 to Sunday November 29.

Entry to the market is free, but standard admission fees to the garden and studio apply. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell

It’s a small world, but how do other cultures celebrate Christmas? Hever Castle’s Christmas Round the World will tell you, with rooms of the castle decorated to show a variety of foreign Christmases.

There will also be a Christmas trail through the grounds, characters from other countries’ Christmas tales, the opportunity to hug a husky at the Husky Hideout, and, fresh from his stint in Westerham, Father Christmas taking up residence in his Grotto.

Entry costs £16 for adults and £9 for children 5 to 15 inclusive. Visiting Father Christmas requires advance booking at www.hevercastle.co.uk NOVEMBER 2 0 1 5

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West Kent Shooting School Your Christmas all wrapped up

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ADVERTORIAL

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BY MAX BARFORD 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. 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 take place 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.

The Family Team at Max Barford Solicitors 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 we 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. We are more than happy to assist you. If you require further information then please call us today on 01892 539379 or email us at so@maxbarford.co.uk today.

SO MAGAZINE READERS OFFER

Up until 30th November 2015, Max Barford are offering the first 10 new applicants the opportunity to meet with a member of their team of expert Family Law Solicitors 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 539379 or email – so@maxbarford.co.uk.

Max Barford & Co, 16 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1QU. www.maxbarford.co.uk Max Barford & Co Solicitors 16 Mount Pleasant, Tunbridge Wells. Kent TN1 1QU. www.maxbarford.co.uk

Max Barford & Co is a trading name is a trading name of Parfitt Cresswell . Parfitt Cresswell is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. No. 71480 NOVEMBER 2 0 1 5

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OUT AND ABOUT

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Five beautiful places to visit in the Weald this autumn Images by Craig Matthews

THE RIVER ROTHER Wending along 35 miles, the River Rother flows through Kent and Sussex. Along the banks there are plenty of walks to enjoy and beautiful views to spot. If you trail the public footpaths from Tenterden, you’ll follow the river through Smallhythe, Rolvenden and eventually find yourself at the Kent/Sussex border between Newenden and Northiam. Here you can hire boats, spot steam trains or just simply watch the world go by.

BEDGEBURY PINETUM

COLLINGWOOD

This year celebrates 90 years of Bedgebury’s National

Collingwood is a delightful woodland sanctuary,

Pinetum tree collection, and the wonderful display of

situated just one mile from Hawkhurst. It was planted

autumn colours never fails to disappoint. The 320 acre

as part of the Collingwood House Estate and, as a

pinetum in Goudhurst contains over 12,000 trees and

result, contains many exotic species amongst the

shrubs, many of them rare.

native oaks, hornbeam, field maple, holly, yew and

As well as following nature trails, cycling and strolling by

28

beech. The reserve is centred on a lake with lovely

the lakes, visitors looking for something a little more

steep valleys and stepped paths. The lake has good

exhilarating can also swing from the treetops at Go Ape.

natural vegetation with water lilies and bulrushes.

www.forestry.gov.uk/bedgebury

www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

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WEALD

SO

LOCAL LENS Can you guess where this is?

Keep an eye out in local towns for this unusual metalwork.

Visit www.somagazine.co.uk to see if you’re right

MILLENIUM FIELD The Millennium Field is a beautiful area of Biddenden that the public are free to explore.

There is a wooded area (the rookery) with a stream and foot bridges, three ponds, two with dipping platforms, and at the top of the field is a seat, a sun clock and a direction indicator and part way up the field are three statues carved by a local craftsman.

HEMSTED FOREST Located just outside of Cranbrook, Hemsted forest offers nature lovers plenty of woodland walks to enjoy. Stretching out over 398 hectares the forest has a multitude of unsurfaced tracks for horse riding, dog walkers and cyclists, but over five miles of pathway is hard surface which allows for easy walking and wheelchair use.

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RANT

SO

NO FUN AT THE FAIR

When did we become a town of fun sponges, wonders Hattie from Tunbridge Wells

A

s I write this, I am aware that I am probably alone in my frustration, but, bear with me. I am lucky enough to live right in the heart of Tunbridge Wells – it’s buzzy, lively and I can be out of my front door and enjoying a flat white at a coffee shop within around two minutes. I bought my house because of its location – I moved from London and have always enjoyed living somewhere with a bit of atmosphere, so I’ll be the first to admit I was never looking for a quaint idyllic country affair when I moved to Tunbridge Wells.

So, it does somewhat surprise me that others in this town seem to hold this perception – that the area is some sort of peaceful secluded retreat.

We have shops and buses and theatres – it’s hardly The Good Life.

Usually I ignore my neighbours, who moan when they can hear children playing in the Calverley Grounds, or my friends when they whinge about not being able to park on their streets. However, there comes a point where something has to be said, and I feel now is that time.

As many of you are probably aware, every winter there is an ice rink in Calverley Grounds. This in itself brings out the usual throng of moaners; the lights are too bright, the ice is too cold, there’s music from Disney films being played above two decibels… but this year the ‘disgusted’s’ of Tunbridge Wells have really thrown their toys out of the pram. Plans were in place to add to the ice rink a ferris wheel and bumper cars, for a full, fun fairground experience. I was fully in support of this idea – I love coming down to the rink at Christmas and looked forward to some more things to do.

Imagine my surprise then, (note the sarcasm) when I saw splashed across the front of the local newspaper ‘Christmas funfair cancelled after public protest.’ At the word protest I imagined the Tunbridge Wellians had been out in their thousands wielding pitch forks in order to get the plans scrapped, but no – only 50 people complained. Hundreds object to housing developments and road widening and the council don’t bat an eyelid, but 50 people in a town of almost 120,000 sniff at the idea of fun and the whole thing gets shut down. Ridiculous.

Yes, I’m annoyed that the few locals who complained got their way, but I’m more annoyed that all sense of entertainment seems to have been sucked out of the town – we’ve become fun sponges. The slightest mention of anything that doesn’t involve brunch or cashmere and we’re on our high horses demanding it be written off before we’ve even given it a chance. Why should we have to fly to Germany to enjoy a Christmas celebration when we could’ve walked 500 metres for the same experience?

Yes, I can see that the bright lights and loud music could become a mild irritation over time, but no more irritating than your next door neighbours shouting during their boozy Christmas gathering with friends, or the roar of the engines as people crawl in traffic outside our houses. We’ve chosen to live in a town, not a hamlet – I feel we should be embracing the festive season and supporting our community rather than sticking our noses in the air and refusing to enjoy any whiff of fun that might come our way.

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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ADVERTORIAL

SO

Why separation and divorce can be a civilised affair If you are experiencing the anxiety and loss of a relationship ending and suffering sleepless nights worrying about the future, you are not alone

BY MAX BARFORD

information and advice from an experienced

solicitors in my team for a free initial

ALMOST 50% of all marriages end in divorce

and trusted advisor which will allow you to

consultation to discuss the options available.

and for many it can be the most traumatic

make informed decisions about your future.

Due to high demand, I am only able to offer

time in their lives. Months and sometimes

My dedicated team are handpicked for

10 appointments up until 30th November, and I know these will book up quickly.

years are spent deciding whether to

their experience working with people who

separate and then, when the decision has

are going through a relationship breakdown.

been made, it can take an age to pluck up

They are all members of Resolution which

emotional and financial future so contact us

the courage to take action. Emotions run

means that they have the legal experience

today to see how we can help you achieve

high and delays are usually down to fear

required to give you the best advice and

the outcome you want.

of the unknown and what life will be like

are committed to solving your problems in

after the separation. Not to mention

a conciliatory way if possible – saving you

how you will cope financially and what

the emotional drain of the legal court battle

you’ll tell the children.

and the legal fees that go with it. They

The truth is, there is no easy way out.

understand the emotional pressure and

However, the actions you take now and the

stress you are going through and they can

choices you make will have a big impact

help ease the pain and will work with you to

on your new life. Your future is in your

achieve the best outcome possible for you

hands. You can choose to be reactive to

to move on with your life.

your situation or you can be proactive and

Our service is confidential, discreet and

take the lead and put a stop to the fighting,

bespoke to each client and we will never

anger and hurt.

disclose your information to others.

Divorce and separation is a life changing event and mistakes can be costly both

Choosing the right legal team is key to your

Out of hours appointments are available if required.

emotionally and financially and you must

For a limited period, I am offering a

be prepared to invest in order to secure

selected number of potential clients an

your future. To take control you need

opportunity to meet with one of the family

SO MAGAZINE READERS OFFER Up until 30th November 2015 Max Barford are offering the first 10 new applicants the opportunity to meet with a member of their team of expert Family Law Solicitors for an initial FREE consultation to discuss the options available to you.

Choosing the right legal team is key to your emotional and financial future, so please do call Max Barford today on - 01892 539379 or email so@maxbarford.co.uk Max Barford & Co, 16 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1QU. www.maxbarford.co.uk

The truth is, there is no easy way out. However, the actions you take now and the choices you make will have a big impact on your new life.

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SO

CONFIDENTIAL

BY TACITUS

NOTHING ESCAPES OUR ATTENTION

WHICH estate agent has a cowboy boot fetish?

That would be the one who rides a Harley, would love to be a Hell’s Angel and still talks about the time he was stopped and asked to strip at the airport for wearing so much bling. On top of that he once wore a pink tutu!

WHICH

WHO

WHAT

WHY

gardener failed to see his love grow?

Answer: The chap who took a liking to the daughter of one of his clients and taped a billetdoux to the handle of her car. Sadly his feelings were not returned and he has now packed his bags to travel the world.

caused a bit of a laugh when they answered the cordless phone?

Simples: The granddad who heard it ring at his home, grabbed the device and was shouting ‘hello” with little response - only to realise he was talking into the TV remote he had picked up by mistake. Way to go granddad!

caused this bride-to-be to get in a lather?

The fact she lined up everything for the big day, church, reception, caterers etc, only to realise weeks before the wedding that she had forgotten to book one vital thing; time off from work. And there were no slots left! Her kindly boss came to the rescue.

did this lunch leave a sour taste?

Because one of the six women who sat down for the regular get together at a local restaurant ‘forgot’ to open her purse and pay her way. When the bill was split and the pot counted, it was short by one person and no one held their hand up.

WHO

WHO

WHICH

WHO

ended up with a boring meal after claiming a food allergy?

The chap at a slap up sporting lunch who, as a joke, insisted he reacted badly to flour made from the lupin seeds. She went out and bought him an allergy free value meal from Boots.

His friends had glazed belly of pork.

believes that love is stronger than a pre-nuptial contract?

That would be the high profile couple, think hospitality, who have been mulling it over since announcing their marriage. Friends are now being told they won’t need any legal agreement – their love will last forever.

headmistress needs to watch her wardrobe?

The one who girl pupils believe is breaching her own school rules by wearing skirts that are a tiny bit too short.

Students themselves are banned from revealing too much leg. Pass that tape measure!

got more than they bargained for on Gumtree?

The kind gent who offered a fourseater sofa for free on the classified ad site to anyone willing to collect.

Nice young lady arrives to collect but with no help; only tears. He and friends spend the evening lugging the sofa to a top floor flat.

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

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CELEBRITY

From the fast cars to the tuxedos, we take a look at the franchise which has kept the world captivated for more than half a century…

THE NAME’S

BOND 42

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CELEBRITY

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that’s before you take into account the huge sum expected to flood in from Spectre.

Of course, the billions the films earn once they hit the big screen justifies the huge expenditure – Spectre cost over £200million to create, making it one of the most expensive films ever produced. This is a far cry from Dr.No where the budget was just $1million (around £650,000).

Although they went over this by 10%, the film made close to £40million – and the success of Bond was born.

Although it wasn’t the first of author Ian Fleming’s James Bond novels, Dr.No became the first Bond film to be made, starring the – at the

A

time, relatively unknown – Sean Connery. At first, s Spectre, the 24th instalment in the

Ian Fleming doubted the casting of Connery,

James Bond film franchise hits our

saying “He’s not what I envisioned of James

screens, the world has been waiting

Bond’s looks… I’m looking for Commander Bond

to see the beloved spy and his latest

and not an overgrown stunt man.”

escapades. Since the release of Dr. No in 1962,

Connery, a keen bodybuilder and footballer,

the Bond films have had audiences enthralled,

had stumbled upon acting, through taking a

and 53 years on the films are just as iconic as

backstage job at Edinburgh’s King’s Theatre in

they’ve ever been – there’s definitely no let up

1951. This sparked an interest in the dramatic

when it comes to the hype surrounding the

world, and, in 1953, during a bodybuilding

release of the latest Bond.

competition in London, he was notified about an

Now the third biggest film franchise in the

upcoming production of South Pacific, which he

world (just pipped to the post by Harry Potter

decided to audition for, landing the part of one of

and the Marvel films), the James Bond movies

a Seabees chorus boys. This saw the beginning

have made almost £4billion at the box office, and

of a long and illustrious acting career; he began

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CELEBRITY

to land roles in both stage shows

to star in a further four Bond films

and film, even coming to Kent at

(From Russia with Love,

one stage when The Condemned

Goldfinger, Thunderball and You

was shot in Dover.

Only Live Twice) before putting

BOND BEHAVIOUR ➠ Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan, Daniel Craig

down his gun in 1967, where

hitting the big time, before marrying first

controversial decision when Dr. No

George Lazenby took on the role

wife Diane Cilento in 1962. The pair had one

was being created. The film’s

of 007. However, it wasn’t long

son together, Jason Connery – now an actor

producer, Cubby Broccoli (whose

before Connery was back to

and director in his own right, before

wife Dana was instrumental in

playing the spy – in 1971 he

divorcing in 1973. Two years later, Connery

persuading her husband that

reprised his role as Bond for

remarried to painter Micheline Roquebrune,

Connery was the right man for the

Diamonds are Forever, and in 1983

and the pair remain married 40 years on.

role), faced challenges of his own

he appeared as Bond in the lesser

when it came to the character

known Never Say Never Again,

always remained a source of public interest,

development process, saying in an

which was not produced by Eon

so it perhaps comes as no surprise that in

interview:

films, the company behind the

2015 he is still the nation’s favourite 007

other movies.

actor. In a recent Sunday Times survey he

It wasn’t just Connery who was a

“Our first problem was the character of Dr. No, since he was

Despite his overwhelming

Connery, who was knighted in 2000 has

was named the ‘ultimate 007’, gaining 45.2%

going to be 007’s first and most

success as Bond, once he had hung

of the votes – his closest rival being the

fiendish adversary, the situation

up his tuxedo, Connery became

current Bond, Daniel Craig.

called for a character of menacing

somewhat disillusioned

dimensions. This was the brief which

with his time as the spy,

Connery was a tough act to follow, and seemingly, none have

our writers took away with them. Later, as we

once saying “I have always hated

succeeded in outgunning him

sat reading the pages, I had a sinking feeling.

that damned James Bond. I’d like

since. George Lazenby’s stint as

They had decided to make Dr. No a monkey. I

to kill him.” While playing Bond

the infamous secret agent lasted

repeat – a monkey. This threw Harry

had in no way hampered his acting

just one film, and with Connery

[Saltzman] and me into some dismay. A

career, he struggled with the fame

reprising his role shortly

million dollars was being invested. We didn’t

that came with being so

afterwards, it would seem that

think that a monkey, even with a high IQ,

synonymous with the character. He

succeeding Connery was a

could in any circumstances be 007’s

was recognised everywhere he

formidable task.

‘merciless antagonist’.”

went, and over the following years

The next to try – this time for a

attempted to separate himself from

longer reign in Bond’s suave suit

commenced, and Connery delivered in his

the franchise and the character that

was Roger Moore, who was

first major film role. Even Ian Fleming,

had made him a household name.

already a household name from

Monkey role quashed, filming

despite his initial reservations, was full of

One thing that was inescapable,

his role in The Saint by the time he

praise for the actor. After the successful Dr.

however, was his heartthrob

was signed up to step in to 007’s

No premiere, he was so impressed, he

status. Just like his character,

shoes. He was considered for 007

created a half-Scottish, half-Swiss heritage

Connery was never short of

in 1968 before finally accepting

for Bond in the later novels.

female attention, having a string

the part in 1972, and went on to

of romances in the lead up to

star in seven Bond movies,

Over the next five years, Connery went on

44

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CELEBRITY

including Live and Let Die, Octopussy and

boycott the film if he remained the star.

A View to a Kill. Moore is the longest-serving

However, he had much support from his

James Bond actor, having spent 12 years in

predecessors – Sean Connery, Pierce Brosnan,

the role, and was also the oldest actor to play

Timothy Dalton and Roger Moore all publicly

the spy – he was 45 when he was cast as

backed him. When Casino Royale was released

Bond and 58 when he announced his

in 2006 and quickly became the highest

retirement in 1985.

grossing Bond film, the critics were silenced,

After Moore’s departure, the next actor to

BETS ON BOND The jury is still out on who will be the next 007 after Daniel Craig, but these are the names currently topping the betting lists…

and after Skyfall was named as the most

step into the now legendary spy suit was

successful British film of all time, it would

Tom Hardy 5/2

Timothy Dalton. Unlike Moore’s portrayal of

seem Daniel Craig has certainly put paid to all

Damian Lewis 11/4

Bond, which was more comical and dry,

those naysayers.

Idris Elba 4/1

Dalton brought a new ruthless, hard-edged

With Spectre being Craig’s fourth Bond film,

side to the character – similar to the James

he is currently contracted for one more, and

Bond found in Ian Fleming’s original novels.

speculation continues to mount on whether

He only played the role for two films, The

he will try to outlive his other 007 ancestors or

Living Daylights and License to Kill, but fans

whether the time has come for him to hang

of the character created by Ian Fleming

up his tuxedo.

praised the way in which he portrayed Bond.

Timothy Dalton was originally due to star in a further Bond film, but due to the film’s production being delayed by a lawsuit, in 1994 he announced he would no longer be playing the role, and two months later, Pierce Brosnan was announced as the next Bond. After marrying Bond girl Cassandra Harris, the Irish actor was

“I really don’t know. Honestly. I’m not trying to be coy. At the moment I can’t even

Henry Cavill 5/1 Michael Fassbender 7/1 Nicholas Hoult 10/1 Aiden Turner 20/1 Orlando Bloom 20/1 Eddie Redmayne 25/1 Jamie Dornan 33/1

conceive it,” Craig said recently when questioned about his future as the secret agent.

When pressed on whether he’d like to make six, maybe seven films like Connery had, he said: “At this moment, no. I have a life and I’ve

FIRST LADIES Sean Connery may be the nation’s favourite Bond, but here’s how the girls fared…

got to get on with it a bit. But we’ll see.”

Having just signed up to play Lago in an

1. URSULA ANDRESS

considered for the part in 1986 but

off-Broadway production of Shakespeare’s

Honey Ryder in Dr. No

commitments to TV drama Remington Steele

Othello next autumn, and with a few other

2. EVA GREEN

meant that he didn’t sip 007’s martini until

projects in the pipeline, whether he decides to

Vesper Lynd in Casino Royale

Goldeneye in 1995.

continue his reign as Bond or not remains to be

3. DIANA RIGG

Often considered the ‘smoothest’ of the

seen, but either way, it’s doubtful he’ll be far from

Bonds, Brosnan, who went on to star in a

the limelight whether he’s playing the spy or not.

Contessa Teresa di Vicenzo in

further three Bond films, had publicly

Whether it was Moore’s humour, Craig’s

admitted he’d like to match Sean Connery’s

brooding or Connery’s virility, each actor given

run of movies and do six. However, this

the opportunity to play Bond has brought

wasn’t to be, and in 2004 after nine years as

something unique to the character, and has

007 he announced he was stepping down,

made James Bond the household name and

paving the way for the current Bond, Daniel

phenomenon that he is today. As the films

Craig, to step up to the plate.

continue to smash box office records, there’s no

He may be a household name now, and the

On Her Majesty’s Secret Service

BEST BONDS A Sunday Times poll revealed the nation’s favourite 007 actors

questioning the unwavering loyal following they

nation’s second favourite Bond, but there was

have held from the very first instalment to the

Sean Connery 45.2%

some level of controversy and criticism when

current offering. And the obsession doesn’t stop

Daniel Craig 34.7%

Daniel Craig was cast as Bond in Casino

when audiences leave the cinemas – from

Roger Moore 9.3%

Royale, owing mostly to his looks. The

product placement in the movies making items

Pierce Brosnan 7.1%

previous five actors had all been dark-haired

sell out in seconds to a rise in gin sales because

and reasonably tall, whereas Craig, with his

of Bond’s favourite Vesper tipple, the 007 films

Timothy Dalton 2.8%

blonde hair, 5ft10 stature and blue eyes was a

have created not just a love for the protagonist,

far cry from previous castings. Critics and the

but a love for all things Bond – and it doesn’t look

media went to town on him, threatening to

set to stop any time soon.

George Lazenby 0.9%

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The Basement Menswear

l Dojnstairs

No 6. High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells TN1 1 UX I Tel: 01892 457 530 ~ The Basement TW I

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SPY STYLE

007 WAYS TO EMULATE BOND’S SUAVE STYLE

JAEGER

Slim Prince of Wales check flannel waistcoat, £130 www.jaeger.co.uk

CORSIVO

Midnight ‘Sarpi’ satin lapel tuxedo blazer, £250 www.houseoffraser.co.uk

MARKS AND SPENCER

Best of British double breasted suit, £699 www.marksandspencer.com

OMEGA

JOHN ROCHA

Seamaster 300 Spectre limited edition, £4,785 www.omegawatches.com

RJR wool mac, £145 www.debenhams.com

DUNE

Renegades, £95 www.dune.co.uk

TED BAKER

Sabow satin bow tie, £40 www.tedbaker.com

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

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FASHION INSIDER

LOCAL BOUTIQUES TEAM UP WITH OUR STYLIST CATHERINE DE CREVECOEUR FOR AN EXCLUSIVE FASHION SHOOT

Top £69 Onienu, Trousers £79 Onjenu, Gilet £149 Jaylay, all from Kitch.

Boots £238 by Lola Cruz at Alexandra Boutique

With an ever increasing presence of independent fashion boutiques, Tunbridge Wells is fast becoming a hotspot for shopping. Our own image consultant and fashion stylist Catherine and celebrity hairstylist Greg Morgan from Morgan Hodges Hair teamed together to prove exactly that and put Tunbridge Wells on the map as a top fashion destination for Kent and beyond. They saw an opportunity to showcase some of the gems the high street has to offer this winter and teamed up with photographer Chloe Sinnett, model Candie Kidd and Make-up artist Gina Gifford to produce this beautiful photoshoot for So magazine.

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THE LOOK

Top £491 and Skirt £284 Dorothee Schumacher at Alexandra Boutique

Top £159 Baum and Pferdgarten, Coat £230 Vilagallo, Shoes £99 Hudson, all from Bod & Ted. Skirt £264 Dorothee Schumacher from Alexandra Boutique

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THE LOOK

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Top custommade £179, Hat £39 Beck Sondergaard both from Bod&Ted, Jeans £199 from Kitch, Boots £238 Lola Cruz from Alexandra Boutique

Jumpsuit £282 MSGM from Alexandra Boutique, Clutch £42 from Bod &Ted

Photography: Claudine Sinnett www. claudinesinnett.com Model: Candie Kidd www. spotlight.com Styling: Catherine de Crevecoeur www. stylepourmoi.com Hair: Greg Morgan www. morganhodgeshair.com Make-Up: Gina Gifford www.ginahairandmakeup. com Clothes: Alexandra boutique, Kitch, Bod&Ted.

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Ladies Designer Wear, Accessories and Shoes The Autumn/Winter Collection has now arrived in Kitch with lots of

b ~ new brands for

you to see.1'Pack away your summer clothes and come in and Embrace

The New Season Colours 1 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TNl lUL

Charlotte Simone Fur Hood available in Black and Grey £179

01892 513 613 www.kitchclothing.co. uk

PURE® COLLECTION Create your signature look w ith our finest cashmere and beautiful w ardrobe essentials at our Tunbridge Wells boutique .

15% OFF * WINTER COLLECTION QUOTE OF FERCODE TVVAWSO

Instore: 38 High Street, Tunbridge Wells Online: www.purecollection.com By phone: 0844 848 1030 * Te rm s and condition s: offe r valid on full price purchases only. Di scount is va lid until 20 th Dece mbe r 2015 and not in co njunction with any othe r offe r or promotion.

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Happy

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THE FRONT ROW

WE BRING YOU THE LATEST HEADLINES FROM THE FASHION WORLD

MODEL HOME Party girl and supermodel she may be, but Kate Moss could be heading in a new direction – interior design. In a collaboration with property entrepreneur John Hitchcox and French designer Philippe Starck’s company, Yoo, Kate has helped to design a five bedroom luxury house in the Cotswolds. The Barnhouse will set the buyer back a cool £2.5million and comes complete with artwork by Damien Hirst and Allen Jones, an open-plan kitchen, a swimming pool, bedrooms furnished using House of Hackney’s newly launched wallpapers and, of course, iconic pictures of Kate Moss throughout the property.

HANDBAGS AT DAWN British fashion designer Stella McCartney has launched a copyright lawsuit, after claiming that another handbag on the market is too similar to one of her own. Steve Madden, an American accessories designer launched the BTotally bag, a black bag with gunmetal chain, which retails at around £70. However, Stella’s Falabella bag range, which was launched back in 2009 features bags with similar detailing, although her products hold a much higher retail price. Her lawyers are now said to be seeking an injunction to prevent Steve Madden from continuing its sale of the bag as well as making a claim for unspecified damages.

The Front Row With Alexander Wang taking his final bow at Paris Fashion Week as creative director of Balenciaga, speculation had been rife over who would be filling his (very fashionable) shoes. Enter Demna Gvasalia, co-founder of fashion label Vetements, which he heads up with his brother and five friends. Gvasalia will maintain his position at Vetements, who have been creating huge interest on the catwalks, as well as his new position at Balenciaga. His first collection will be for autumn/winter 2016 in March.

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AVAILABLE AT MARK ADAM

MARK

68 High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN 1 1YB 01892 616617

ADAM

I info@markadam.co.uk

I www.markadam.co.uk

Open Tues - Sat 10.00 - 5.30pm

BAL PSYCHOTHERAPY ATTHEGARDEN ROOM Talking to someone in a safe, trusting and non-judgmental setting maybe what you need if you are finding certain things in your life difficult.

I offer counselling and psychotherapy to individuals and couples who are struggling with addiction, relationships, a mid-life crisis, divorce, anxiety, stress and depression.

I can tailor my sessions to suit your sYrific needs and use a variety of techni9u~ such as Co~ tive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness ~ , l?erson Centre:!Jherapy.

I have a private~

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Street, ~

For help and ~

s call 01 8~

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'All our cashmere is made by our mill in the Scottish Borders that has been producing cashmere for over 200 years.)

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Bluefield Wardrobes - add value to your home Maximise your storage with bespoke sliding, hinge door or walk-in wardrobes.

Whether your home is large or small, new or old, Bluefield have a solution for you.

Offering a free design service, followed by a made to measure installation and a 1O year guarantee for total peace of mind.

For beautiful state of the art wardrobes at affordable prices take advantage of our exclusive 25째/o discount.

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CHECKING IT OUT

UPDATE YOUR AUTUMN WARDROBE WITH THESE CHIC CHECK BUYS

VICTORIA BECKHAM

IRREGULAR CHOICE

Rosie Lea boots, £99 www.irregularchoice.com

MINT VELVET

Check cocoon coat, £179 www.mintvelvet.co.uk

Denim neon tweed top, £260 www.houseoffraser.co.uk

JIGSAW

Tweed jacquard cigarette trouser, £89 www.jigsaw.co.uk

PEOPLE TREE

Annette check dress, £99 www.peopletree.co.uk

PHASE EIGHT

Jasleen jacquard knit coat, £110 www.phase-eight.co.uk

LA REDOUTE

Mademoiselle R tweed coat, £99 www.laredoute.co.uk

MARKS AND SPENCER

Best of British pure new wool checked wrap pencil skirt, £99 www.marksandspencer.com

PROENZA SCHOULER

Medium tweed satchel, £1,230 www.selfridges.com

PRETTY ECCENTRIC

Fifi dress in berry tweed, £159 www.prettyeccentric.co.uk

HOBBS

Carnell jacket, £259 www.hobbs.co.uk

GIVENCHY

Tweed and neoprene dress, £1,620 www.harveynichols.com

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llSE JACOBSEN HORNB.fEK

No 6. High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells TN1 1 UX I Tel: 01892 537 241 www.ilsejacobsen.com I 11 ILSE JACOBSEN UK I D llseJacobsenUK

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• Opi Gel Nails • Mii Makeup • Experienced stylists offering a personalised service

20% C?fjwLth this advert*

Open Monday - Saturday with Free Parking

01892 539004 www.revivehairdressing.co.uk *Terms and conditions apply

DOMINIC WALMSLEY

~

A RECENT COMMISSION FOR A COMBINED

HEADMASTERS.® Beautiful, Fashionable, Confidence-Boosting Hair www.headmasters.com

ENGAGEMENT RING AND WEDDING BAND DESIGNED BY DOMINIC WALMSLEY

3 THE SQ!JARE • RIVERHEAD 01732 779 555 www.dominicwalmsley.com MADE IN LONDON

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THE LOOK

BRORA

Cashmere Scandinavian jumper, £295

47 High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells TN1 1XL

BARSLEYS

Barsleys Christmas hampers, from £14.99 Packed with treats, from cheese melts and salted caramel biscuits to fruit preserves and rustic chutney, our hampers will make the perfect gift. www.barsleys.co.uk

ELIZABETH ROSE

Bulaggi handbag, £75

www.elizabeth-rose.com 01580 763 815

G COLLINS & SONS

Cartier 42mm steel calibre de Cartier diver watch, £5,800 www.gcollinsandsons.com 76/78 High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells TN1 1YB

66

JB’S MUSIC

Alesis DM lite electronic drum kit, £199 The perfect Christmas present – all you need to start drumming www.jbsmusic.co.uk

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THE LOOK

MARK ADAM

New for Christmas at Mark Adam - a collection of pristine pre-owned watches from top luxury brands, including Rolex, Cartier and Patek Philippe.

Up to 50% saving off recommended retail prices.

All watches are sold with a 12- month mechanical guarantee. www.markadam.co.uk

ASHFORD DESIGNER OUTLET

Holly Fulton gift wrap, £3 for six sheets The gift wrap will be available from the Ashford Designer Outlet from November 2, with all proceeds being donated to the British Red Cross, helping vulnerable people in crisis across the UK.

SO

MISCALLEF JEWELLERS

Crystal lockets and charms, lockets £49.99, charms £9.99 each. These crystal lockets can be filled with cubic zirconia letters, numbers and symbols. The latest jewellery must-have is loved by celebrities such as Alexa Chung and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. www.micallefjewellers.com Micallef Jewellers Tonbridge and Sevenoaks 01732 364 631

www.ashforddesigneroutlet.com

THE PRESENCE OF CHRISTMAS GORGEOUS GIFTS FOR ALL THE FAMILY THIS CHRISTMAS

DREAMLAND

CASHARA

Dreamland gift membership, £39.95 (introductory offer) A Dreamland gift membership isn’t just for Christmas – enjoy the fun all year round.

Multiway wrap, £55, pompom hat, £40

www.cashara.co.uk The Savannah Gallery, 1 High Street, Tenterden TN30 6BN

www.dreamland.co.uk/ membership

GREAT HAIRDRESSING

The ultimate ESPA collection, £135

Great Hairdressing & Beauty, 1 Hoopers Stores, Tunbridge Wells 01892 542 015

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ADVERTORIAL

WORKPLACE STRESS With hectic schedules and looming deadlines, the workplace can be overwhelming for many. Peter Marlow offers counselling and psychotherapy in Tunbridge Wells, west Kent and East Sussex, providing you with the necessary tools to combat stress or anxiety and perform your job effectively

W

hether you are self-employed,

not coping. We may feel anxious and

setting up a small business or

defensive, or empty, isolated and

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working in a larger organisation, the

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feelings. A clearer understanding of

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

RAISING EYEBROWS A recent survey by the British Association of Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology has revealed that British women are now spending on average £200 on eyebrow grooming a year. This includes everything from threading, waxing and tinting to having semipermanent tattooing to get the perfect brows. “£200 a year on eyebrow grooming doesn’t surprise me at all,” says Nilam Holmes-Patel, founder of eyebrow grooming company High Definition. “Brow products are now at the top of the beauty wish list across Britain due to how the brow can completely enhance your facial features in a matter of minutes.”

A TIGHT SPOT They’re the easy go-to hairstyles for busy mums and celebrities alike, but the fashion of wearing your hair in a topknot or tight ponytail could cause you to lose your hair, experts are warning.

Traction alopecia, a form of hair loss related to the tight pulling of hair has been seen in those who regularly tie their hair too tightly.

The condition is commonly seen around the hairline, but can occur anywhere on the head and is caused by the hair being pulled too tightly and traumatising the follicle. There has also been a rise in men suffering with alopecia, as a result of the ‘man bun’ trend.

BLUE BOOSTER If your children are sometimes lacking in concentration then a superfood smoothie could be the answer to keeping them focused. A study conducted by Reading University has discovered that a wild blueberry drink boosted memory and concentration in primary school-age children. It is thought the effects are due to the flavonoids, health-boosting plant chemicals found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, including citrus fruits and berries. Although wild blueberries don’t grow in the UK, bilberries and blackberries also contain the flavonoids.

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Get Read)) for Christmas with

".. , f<._jY,,/ Kose l,pwie "".,,,/ j'ffs Dress your table with our festive tablecloths, place mats, table runners & matching napkins in our

folkloric Reindeer print.

Add a frilly retro apron and a cushion or two plus our Christmas bunting to deck out your home all in a 100% cotton. www.raggedrose.com sales@raggedrose. corn

01622 812897

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Innovative hairdressing for the way you live today Online bookings

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NOVEMBER 2 0 1 5

•

-

• •

Diagnostic and Treatment Centre

Sevenoaks Medical Centre Beadle House

YOU'RE IN SAFE HANDS If you're worried about a lump in your breast or any changes, don't delay seeing a specialist.

At our One-Stop Breast Clinic at Sevenoaks Medical Centre, our specialists can assess you, perform any necessary scans or tests, and give you a diagnosis on the same day.

Supported by London Bridge Hospital, any treatment required can be rapidly arranged.

Appointments scheduled at a time convenient to you.

Call to book an appointment now on or visit

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01732 809 342

www.sevenoaksmedicalcentre.com/breast

26/10/2015 16:33

โ ข

1n

fresh thinking. real results.

Cold Body Sculpting is here to smooth, flatten s eliminate those stubborn fat cells.

A completely non-invasive way to gently and effectively reduce fat in targeted body areas without any downtime.

M~..wl

Interest free credit available to approvaed purchasers.

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Call today and book your FREE Cold Body Sculpting consultation.

01892 22 22 22 www.rtwskin.co.uk

info@rtwskin.co.uk

rtwskin, Cobden House Medical Centre, 25 London Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN11 DA

Q ยงi~~~~\~~

En~ Approved

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ADVERTORIAL

SO

THE TRUE DEFINITION OF LUXURY Situated near The Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells, Serenity Therapies is a world of sensory heaven where time is left at the door and a new journey begins. Read on to find out more about how can escape and restore the serenity within through a perfect experience at this truly relaxing retreat

E

xperience the Serenity Therapies facial and discover the true definition of

luxury at our serene salon in Tunbridge

63a High Street, Tunbridge

Wells. Our Eve Taylor products, made

Wells, Kent TN1 1XU

up of aromatherapy and essential oils,

01892 535 252

enhance relaxation. This wonderful

www.serenitytherapies.com

range allows us to tailor-make your sensory facial to your individual needs, leaving your skin refreshed, revitalised and glowing.

Our routine consists of a deep cleanse and gentle exfoliate, followed by a facial massage to help release tension and relax the muscles. We then proceed to the masque, which will be targeted even more specifically for your skin type.

Following on from this is the moisturiser to hydrate and give your skin that radiant finishing touch. We also offer specialised facial treatments such as glycolic face peels, skin needling and natural facelifts.

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SUPPORTING MEN'S HEALTH 6 reasons why men should get active

Being active lowers cholesterol

in the development of type 2 is attributed to

As most men get older, cholesterol numbers

having too much body fat. Staying active can

begin to move in the wrong direction . Levels

help you keep the weight off Even for people

Need motivation to get off the couch?

of so-called 'bad' cholesterol gradually

who are overweight or obese, research shows

Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital gives

increase whereas levels of 'good' cholesterol

exercise can still reduce the risk of diabetes.

six no nonsense reasons why you should get

tend to fall. Unfortunately, this combination

It is best to use a combination of aerobic and

active, now. There are a number of health

is one of the leading risk factors for heart

resistance exercise.

problems a man can face throughout his life.

disease . Excess cholesterol accumulates on the

Being active reduces the risk of

But the risk of suffering from many of them is

inner lining of blood vesse ls , leading to heart

erectile dysfunction

significantly reduced by leading an active

attacks. The best way to keep bad cholesterol

Erectile dysfunction is a disorder that afflicts

lifestyle. As well as regularly visiting your GP,

leve ls down is to eat a diet low in Irons-fat

many men. Though its immediate effects are

physical activity is the best thing you can do for

and exercise regularly.

obvious, the long-reaching effects it has on a

your own health.

Being active lowers the risk of

man 's wellbeing (including stress, anxiety and

And here's why

high blood pressure

depression) are not. Exercise has been found to

Being active reduces cardiovascular risk

As blood pressure climbs, the risk of heart

improve wellbeing and is regularly recommended

and helps your heart

disease and stroke accelerates. Unfortunately,

to help deal with erectile dysfunction .

Ma ny risk factors contribute to cardiovascular d isease, but high blood pressure (hypertension) and cholesterol are common culprits. Exercise has been proven to help lower both these factors simultaneously. The benefits of aerobic

blood pressure levels typically cl imb as men get

Being active increases self-esteem

older due to a natural stiffening of the arteries .

When you exercise, you feel good . Not only

But they don't have to - studies have shown

does exercise help you to look good, thereby

that being more phys ically active can lower the

increasing your self-esteem, but it can directly

risk of developing hypertension. Exercise can

fight depress ion. Depression is related to low

be used in prevention, treatment and control of

levels of certain neurotransmitters like seroton in

hypertension.

and norepinephrine. Exercise, however,

and incorporating moderate physical activity

Being active lowers the risk of diabetes

tends to increase the concentration of these

into your life you'll significantly decrease the

Adult onset, or type 2, diabetes is one major

neurotransmitters and also stimulates the release

health issue among men. A common factor

of endorphins, the feel-good neurotransmitter.

exercise to cardiovascular health are well documented . By not living a sedentary lifestyle

risk of heart attack or stroke.

O

8

Tunbridge Wells Hospital Kingswood Road ,

@

Tunbridge Wells, TN2 4UL

: ; Nuffield Health FOR THE LOVE OF LIFE

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01892 883 638

www.nuffieldhealth.com

Hospitals +

Health Checks

+

Physio

+

Gyms

26/10/2015 09:18

THE LOOK

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BEAUTY

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

ANDREA GARLAND

SERGE LUTENS

CAT FACE LIP BALM BROOCH, £28 As part of her Christmas collection comes Andrea Garland’s new cute and quirky lip balms.

This pretty, dainty piece has a secret compartment that opens up to reveal a pot of balm. With its organic beeswax, softening shea butter and sun protecting red raspberry seed oil, this highly moisturising balm will hydrate, smooth and protect lips. And, with its brooch attachment you can accessorise your favourite jacket with it too. www.andreagarland.co.uk

FARD À PAUPIÉRESS NO4 EYE PALETTE, £110 Following in the footsteps of his other luxurious products, this month Serge Lutens releases his Fard à Paupiéress No4 eye palette at Harvey Nichols.

Comprising four gorgeous shades, including a smoky sparkling black for depth and contours, alongside three golden shimmers, this is the perfect palette to see you through the party season and beyond. www.harveynichols.com

BARE MINERALS

SWEPT AWAY FIVE PIECE LUXE MINI BRUSH COLLECTION, £30 Perfect for a makeover on the go, this new set of brushes from Bare Minerals has everything you need for instant glamour. Containing five mini brushes including a face brush, smudge brush and eye brush, this collection is great to give as a gift – or keep for yourself! The tools roll up into a handy pouch so you can take them with you wherever you go. www.bareminerals.co.uk

SISLEY

RESTORATIVE FLUID BODY CREAM, 150ML, £91.50 Whether you’ve been lucky enough to jet off on a winter sun break or just want soft skin this season, the new Sisley restorative fluid body cream is ideal. The moisturising body cream helps to repair environmental damage while hydrating and restoring softness.

It instantly soothes on application and is ideal for calming and rehydrating skin after a stint in the sun or perhaps after a day of skiing. www.sisley-paris.com

ILLAMASQUA

CELESTIAL PALETTE, £34 This new shimmering collection of eyeshadows from Illamasqua comes in a sleek palette and provides great, buildable coverage to see you from day to night. The four cream to powder eyeshadows bring a bit of glitz and glamour to your makeup look and with shades ranging from quell (a champagne colour) to orb (a dazzling black) you’ll be sure to make a statement this winter. www.illamasqua.com

GLOSSYBOX

LIMITED EDITION NARS BOX, £30 If you’re looking for a great Christmas gift (or a little present for yourself!) then you might want to get your hands on this Glossybox set, filled with NARS goodies. From November 16 beauty lovers can order this set, featuring NARS’ bestselling products for just £30. Containing an eyeliner, lip pencil, blusher, mascara and highlighter all in travel luxe size, this box, which is worth £56 won’t be around for long, so get your orders in quickly! www.glossybox.co.uk

AIRBASE

CORRECTOR PALETTE, £24.95 Airbase’s new corrector palette contains five shades to neutralise, cover and give a flawless finish to skin, especially when used under makeup. Containing soy bean oil, this corrector palette not only colour adjusts but is also great for the skin. Use a combination of lavender, mint, pale yellow, rose and tan to create your perfect base – you can even use this to cover tattoos and marks. www.airbasemakeup.com

RITUALS

FLEURS DE L’HIMALAYA EAU DU PARFUM, 50ML, £39 Inspired by the orient, Rituals new collection of eau du parfums provide a range of stunning scents for men and women, ranging from wooded musks to floral notes. Each of the luxury fragrances is inspired by aromas the perfumers uncovered during their travels. Our favourite has to be the Fleurs de L’Himalaya, with its undertones of wild orchid, Himalayan peony and cotton musk. www.rituals.com

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THE LOOK

BEAUTY STARTS AT HOME Can you really ditch expensive products for home made remedies?

Charlie Bond raids the kitchen cupboards to find out…

How much do you spend on beauty

Olive oil contains no harsh chemicals and

products? From eye-wateringly expensive

is close to the skin’s natural oils, so doesn’t

eye creams to shampoos promising to

clog pores or cause irritation.

make your mane glossier than a unicorn’s,

Does it work?

British women are estimated to spend

It was a bit strange slathering this on my

£140,000 on hair and cosmetics over

face, but it removed my makeup quickly

their lifetime.

and effectively and left my skin feeling

Week after week we read about the

really smooth, if a little greasy. For

latest lotions and potions claiming to zap

someone who suffers with dry skin

wrinkles, banish fat and give us baby-soft

though, this worked really well without

skin, and more often than not we believe

drying my skin out like other cleansers

the hype only to be disappointed when

tend to.

the new product doesn’t leave us looking like Beyoncé.

Recently though, there’s been a rise in

2. NAIL STRENGTHENER INGREDIENTS: Two parts beer, one part

natural beauty – products containing

olive oil, one part cider vinegar

fewer harsh chemicals, perfumes and skin

Beer contains minerals which help with

irritants. When you break down what

nail strengthening, while apple cider

some of these expensive creams now

vinegar contains nutrients and acids to

contain, you can easily find the ingredients

combat brittleness and discolouration.

on the shelves of the local supermarket, or

Combining them with some warm olive oil

in your cupboards at home. Bloggers and

creates a nourishing treatment for

beauty experts are now raving about

damaged nails.

coffee scrubs and coconut oil, so to see

Does it work?

what all the fuss is about I raided my

While you probably wouldn’t do this with

fridge and kitchen cupboards to see

your pint in the pub, the treatment was

whether using everyday items are as good

easy to make and I was really impressed

as the high-end products.

with the results after just one application – my nails felt stronger and the tips were

1. MAKEUP REMOVER

whiter too.

INGREDIENTS: One teaspoon olive oil

3. FACE SCRUB INGREDIENTS: Three tablespoons coffee

It may seem strange

granules, one tablespoon olive oil, one

covering your face,

tablespoon brown sugar

rather than your

Coffee has a lot of health benefits for the

potatoes in olive oil, but many makeup

removers are actually oilbased.

skin – it contains antioxidants, can be used to combat cellulite and rejuvenates, so rather than pouring myself a cup to wake me up, I’m waking up my skin and removing dead cells with an exfoliator instead.

Does it work?

Yes, and it’s amazing. Aside from being a little messy to apply, the combination of coffee and sugar work really well to exfoliate and leave the skin glowing.

JAMIE BAKER

You have to wash off carefully or you’ll be left with a questionable brown stain, but rising with warm water removes it easily and my skin was incredibly soft afterwards.

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THE LOOK

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VERDICT All of these 4. EYE SOOTHER

Does it work?

INGREDIENTS: Two cold tea bags

Well, I did have soft and shiny hair at the

Lots of eye products contain caffeine, as

end, so I suppose it does, but I didn’t leave

it’s an antioxidant and can help shrink the

it on for the full 20 minutes because I

blood vessels around your eye, reducing

found the lumps of avocado sliding off my

puffiness. This method involves just two

hair and down my back a bit disconcerting.

tea bags, chilled in the fridge then applied

I finally decided it was time to rise it out

to the eyes for a few minutes.

when my cat become overly interested in

Does it work?

my head. Also, because it’s so thick, it’s

My eyes felt really soothed after trying this

hard to wash this mask off quickly, so if

out and the skin was definitely less puffy.

you don’t spend long enough rinsing you

Plus it was a great excuse to have a cup of

run the risk of discovering some green

tea while I sat and relaxed!

surprises mid- blow dry.

5.TOOTHPASTE INGREDIENTS: Five tablespoons coconut oil, two teaspoons baking soda, a few drops of peppermint oil Oil pulling has become all the rage with celebrities – it involves swishing coconut oil around your mouth for 20 minutes instead of using toothpaste, and is supposed to whiten teeth without the use of harsh chemicals. However, if you don’t have 20 minutes or that much jaw power, this mix is a little easier to stomach (although don’t swallow it!)

Does it work?

Yes. It tastes a little bit acidic, probably because I didn’t use enough peppermint oil to counteract the baking soda, but overall the result is good – my teeth feel like they’ve had a deep clean at the dentist, which isn’t bad for a two minute blast with a brush!

6.HAIR MASK INGREDIENTS: Half an avocado, one tablespoon mayonnaise To combat dry hair, this mask includes avocado, which contains essential oils and mayonnaise which contains protein to strengthen the hair.

The treatment should be applied to wet hair and

homemade treatments were easy to make from very few ingredients, and I was really impressed with how effective they were.

My favourite was probably the coffee face scrub, as even the next day my skin felt really smooth, and it left a nice scent behind after it was washed off! I’m keen to try other homemade remedies now, although I’m sceptical about an egg white shampooapparently if you rinse it off in hot water you end up with a scrambled mess…

This feature has also appeared in our sister publication The Times of

Tunbridge Wells

left for 20 minutes, leaving hair soft and shiny.

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ADVERTORIAL

LOOKING AFTER LIGAMENTS If you suffer an anterior cruciate ligament injury, experts at North Downs hospital can help

T

Our choice of reconstruction is the all-

here are two cruciate ligaments in the

It becomes difficult to participate in sports. Since

knee. The anterior running from the front

the knee becomes unstable other structures in

arthroscopic technique using hamstring

the knee remain at risk of further trauma.

tendon from the same leg. This allows us

of the knee to the back, and the posterior cruciate running from back to front. They

to rehabilitate patients early and graft site

appear to be crossing each other when seen

How is this injury managed?

from the front, hence the name. These

Management involves examination and

ligaments are very important stabilizers of the

imaging with an MRI scan. Depending on the

procedure and physiotherapy starts the

knee. The cruciates are very strong ligaments

findings the cruciate ligament injury can be

following day.

and can withstand huge amounts of load

treated non-surgically with specific

before rupturing.

rehabilitation or surgical reconstruction.

How are they injured?

physiotherapy, muscle strengthening exercises

sport specific exercises at six months from the

They are damaged due to sporting accidents

and the use of braces.

surgery and return to full contact sporting

Non-surgical management involves

pivoting on the knee, like football, skiing, rugby,

Repair of the torn ligament is not possible and

etc, are the usual culprits.

the most common method of treatment is reconstruction. Reconstruction is carried out using one of the following:

Cruciates are vascular structures. Cruciate injury

• Hamstring tendons from the patient

presents with as a painful swollen knee due to

• Patella tendon from the patient

bleeding in the joint. Subsequently the patient is

• Quadriceps tendon from patient

left with a weak knee which gives way with

• Allograft from cadaveric donor

twisting activities or even with normal activities.

• Synthetic ligament

78

The surgery is carried out as a day case

The patient goes through an accelerated physiotherapy programme with specific goals at different points in time, aiming return to

activities at nine months.

and other high energy trauma. Sports requiring

What are the symptoms?

has minimal morbidity.

If you have a knee problem and wish to book an appointment with Mr George Tselentakis, an Orthopaedic Consultant based at North Downs Hospital, call on 0800 046 8036 or enquire online www.northdownshospital.co.uk

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ADVERTORIAL

SO

GOOD HAIR DAYS Great hair starts at Hoopers

C

ombining your hair and beauty needs has never been simpler. Located on the first floor in the

prestigious Hoopers store, we will pull out all the stops to exceed your expectations.

GREAT Hairdressing has been established in Tunbridge Wells for over 10 years. You can choose from a wide range of stylists, each one committed to giving you an amazing designer haircut with a personalised homecare plan to ensure you recreate that GREAT look at home.

Working with brands such as Redken and introducing EUFORA, we are confident you will love what we do.

EUFORA is unique in that the products contain no water. Instead, the luxury shampoos conditioners and styling products are made using certified organic Aloe Vera – perfect for all skin and hair types.

Our newest addition is our new BEAUTY salon. Our principal therapist Amy and her fabulous team of therapists offer a wide range of beauty treatments, ranging from organic waxing, to luxury ESPA facials.

ESPA products are focused on naturally improving the condition of the skin to provide outstanding instant and long-term results. Every facial begins with a detailed skin analysis and includes specific double cleansing techniques, gentle exfoliation, an acupressure facial massage and a deep cleansing and intensive face mask.

Whilst the mask is taking effect, experience a relaxing and therapeutic Oriental head massage with Pink hair and scalp mud, then enjoy specific moisturising and skin protection to suit your needs.

Nothing could be nicer!

Please can we replace the image of the lady with the image attached and ad the below copy?

£10

Find us on floor 1, Hoopers, Tunbridge Wells

GIFT VOUCHER

Book online www.greathairdressing.com 01892542015

JOIN US IN CELEBRATING THE OPENING OF GREAT Hairdressing & BEAUTY at Hoopers and enjoy this £10 gift voucher to use against a luxury ESPA facial along with a complimentary shampoo and blowdry to complete your experience with one of our highly trained stylists.

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27/10/2015 10:00

2

Spire

Tunbridge Wells Hospital

A new, minimally invasive procedure is now available to Spire Tunbridge Wells patients; The Urolift System with Consultant Urologist, Mr Alastair Henderson.

Who is it for?

The benefits

The Urolift Device is a revolutionary treatment that offers fast relief to men who suffer with the following symptoms:

• General anaesthetic not required

• Frequent need to urinate during the day and night • Weak or slow urinary stream • A sense that you cannot completely empty your bladder • Difficulty or delay in starting urination • Urgent feeling of needing to urinate • A urinary stream that stops and starts

• Frequent lower urinary tract infections

• No overnight stay required • Preservation of sexual function • Patients can return to normal daily activities soon after treatment If you can relate to the above symptoms or have been told you would be suitable for alternative surgery, please contact us in confidence to find out more and whether you could be suitable for the Urolift System.

Mr Henderson holds weekly clinics at the Spire Tunbridge Wells Hospital.

URC)ll FT~ BPH Relief. In Sight.,.

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ADVERTORIAL

SO

EXPERT OPINION

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE ON YOUR HEALTH, BEAUTY AND WELLBEING

IMPROVING QUALITY OF LIFE Fortunately, there are lots of potential solutions that can reduce your need to go to the toilet so frequently and improve your quality of life. First, you need the right investigations to make sure we know exactly what is going on; you should have blood tests to check your kidney function and the concentration of Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), a urine flow test and an ultrasound of your bladder.

Once we have established that an enlarged prostate is the cause of your symptoms, we can discuss potential treatment options, but the key question underlining this decision is: how bothered are you? All treatment has potential risks – the only risk-free treatment is no treatment – so if going to the toilet more frequently doesn’t really bother you, you may choose to live with it.

But if you do want to scale back your need for

SUPPORTING MEN’S HEALTH Can you do 18 holes without a comfort break?

By Mr John Donohue, Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital MB BCh, FRCSI, FRCS

regular comfort breaks, simple lifestyle changes may be all that is needed; reducing caffeine and alcohol intake is often sufficient. If dietary changes don’t work, there are a number of drugs available that work in slightly different ways to either shrink the prostate or calm the bladder.

The final option is surgery to remove the enlarged portion of the prostate, either by cutting

IT’S A SIMPLE test of whether your bladder is working as it should –

HARD WORK With a restricted urethra, the

away small sections (TURP) or vaporising the prostate tissue (TUVIS). A TURP usually involves

bladder has to work harder to

a general anaesthetic and an overnight stay in

needing to pee. It should be

empty itself. Sometimes it

hospital; a TUVIS is carried out as day surgery.

something you take in your

simply gets tired and gives up

And the good news is that neither procedure will

stride, but for many men as they

before it has fully emptied; as

stop your ability to have an erection. If you need

playing a round of golf without

get older, going a full 18 holes without having to dash behind a tree is simply impossible. There is one

your bladder still has urine in it, it takes less time to fill up again, causing you to go to the toilet more

to go to the toilet significantly more often than you used to, it can be worthwhile getting expert medical advice to rule out anything more sinister

simple culprit behind men’s growing need to

regularly. Failing to empty properly can also

than the inevitable consequences of an enlarging

pee as they get older: the prostate, the gland

cause stones to form in the bladder, which

prostate. And if it’s more than just a mild

that sits below the bladder. You hear a lot about

can make it irritated and overactive.

inconvenience, there are plenty of options we can

it, because it has a big impact on men’s health

Secondly, although you may think of the

as they get older, and part of this is a general

bladder as a pouch, it is in fact a muscle. If you

need to pee more frequently.

exercise, you know that the harder you work a

explore to improve your quality of life and get you round 18 holes in one go!

muscle, the more it grows, and the bladder is

John Donohue is a consultant urological

all men from about the age of 40 (known as

no exception. This can be true whether your

surgeon at Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells

Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy), and this puts

flow is slowing or if it is still going strong; in the

Hospital with a specialist interest in the

pressure on the urethra. This generally reduces

latter case, your bladder may be compensating

diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer

the flow in the same way that stepping on a

for a restricted urethra by working harder to

To arrange an initial consultation with him,

hose pipe reduces the speed at which the

void itself. In both scenarios, your bladder can

call 01892 883 638. You can find out

water comes out of the nozzle. Generally, but

become thicker and develop pouches; this can

more about men’s health issues at

not always. But whether your flow is getting

also make it irritable and overactive, again

www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/

slower or you can still pee at full force, you may

increasing the frequency with which you feel

tunbridge-wells or

still feel the need to go more regularly.

the need to pee.

www.johndonohue.info

The centre of the prostate slowly enlarges in

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27/10/2015 09:48

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, find out your baby's gender 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) • Gender, 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

26/10/2015 15:05

THE LOOK

SO

DAILY PRESENTS

WHO NEEDS CHOCOLATE WHEN YOU CAN GET YOUR HANDS ON ONE OF THESE BEAUTY ADVENT CALENDARS INSTEAD?

JO MALONE

Luxury advent calendar, £260 www.jomalone.co.uk

SALLY

Beauty advent calendar, £42 www.sallyexpress.com

SELFRIDGES

Beauty advent calendar, £95 www.selfridges.co.uk

L’OCCITANE

Christmas advent calendar, £39 www.uk.loccitane.com

LIBERTY

Beauty Christmas advent calendar, £149 www.liberty.co.uk

YOU BEAUTY

Discovery advent calendar, £59.95 www.youmagazine.co.uk

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26/10/2015 16:10

-

SO

PETER JENNER Jewellery maker

designer

Over 45 years creating individual, beautifully designed and expertly made engagement, wedding and eternity rings. Certificated diamonds.

- come direct to the craftsman Specialist in Fine Hand Made jewellery 43 The Pantiles Tunbridge Wells 01892 521796 www.peterjenner.com

Croham Hurst Golf Club CROHAM HURSI' 19ll

cw~ & CJunctum,; 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) 84

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WEDDINGS

THE SECRET DIARY OF A BRIDE TO BE This month our bride pops the question to her bridesmaids…

SO

wear. I spent weeks trying to source original gifts and hand crafted cards (regularly gluing my fingers together in the process), before finally being ready to pop the question.

By this point, I had been engaged for four

D

eciding to get married was (relatively)

straightforward. My first dilemma was

months and it hardly seemed worth the big

easy. Finding a venue, dress and jars big

deciding how important it is to return the

reveal, but I met each bridesmaid individually to

enough to fit fairy lights inside, not so

bridesmaid favour – having been one three

deliver their gift and good news. Well, I met

much. But, probably the toughest task so far

times now and heading for a fourth stint

three of them. The fourth lives further away and

has been selecting the bridal party.

shortly, I wondered whether I should just

her present was rather weighty, so I decided to

Something that should be pretty

make life easier by asking these friends to be

post it, before one of the other bridesmaids

straightforward (asking people you like to be

mine too.

gave the game away on social media. Off I

After deciding that, due to the fact I haven’t

trundled to the post office, parcel in hand, glad

your life), has turned into some sort of

seen one of these previous brides in two years

that this would finally be a weight off my mind,

stressful and complicated task.

I wouldn’t just return the favour, I was then

and arms. Sadly, it was also a weight off my

faced with the decision over who to ask. After

purse – somehow I agreed to send the parcel to

you want to be in your bridal party. For my

initially deciding I would only have three, then

Essex for the same price as flying to Rome for a

fiancé, this was easy because he has one

having sleepless nights over how to tell

weekend. Thankfully the bridesmaid in question

group of friends, who have all been

another friend she was off the list, I decided

agreed to my proposition and all four were

groomsmen for each other. For me, the

maybe four was the magic number – a

finally on board.

by your side on the most important day of

Firstly, you have to decide how many people

decision wasn’t quite so

combination of friends from various stages of my life and my fiancé’s sister.

Nowadays, you’re expected to dream up

“How are you going to ask the boys to be your groomsmen?” I asked my fiancé, ready to get the glue gun back out and start crafting

inventive ways to ask your men or maids

a few more cards. “I’ll just ask them when I

to be a part of your special day. There

see them,” came the somewhat bemused

are whole Pinterest boards dedicated to

reply. Then, in fairness he doesn’t use

this stuff; it’s no longer acceptable to

Pinterest, so maybe he just doesn’t know

mention the proposition over a casual drink in the local, you have to

about all the sentimental gift and bank balance crippling postal options available…

shower your friends with gifts and personal touches. And that’s all before forking out a fortune on outfits for them to

Next month find out how our bride is getting on with planning…

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26/10/2015 15:46

TRAVEL IN STYLE TO YOUR BIG DAY IN ACHAUFFEUR DRIVEN LAMBORGHINI!

COVERING KENT, SURREY AND SUSSEX ADD SOME SUPER CAR STYLE TO YOUR EVENT.

GUEST EXPERIENCES ALSO AVAILABLE

07808 505040 Jamie@getmetothechurch.uk

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WEDDINGS

SO

you to focus on the finer details, like decorations and accessories for the day, bridesmaid dresses and your groom’s suit.

This is also the time to get booking – if you’re planning to have your hair and makeup done on the day, book these now.

The same goes for securing a wedding car and a hotel for the night of your wedding.

It’s also time to think past the wedding to the honeymoon and start making arrangements for that too.

THREE MONTHS TO GO Your guests should all have the date firmly in their diaries, but now’s the time to make it official by sending out your invites.

Allow guests enough time to RSVP but also bear in mind that until you have their confirmation you won’t be able to firm up numbers and complete table plans.

TWO MONTHS TO GO As the wedding gets closer there’s lots to confirm. Choose your ceremony music, finalise your menu choices and speak to your suppliers to confirm everything is in place.

It’s also a good time to have your hair trial and start thinking about a beauty regime. Begin having pedicures so your

WEDDING PLANNER

feet are ready for the day, and if you’re having a spray tan it’s a good idea to book

Your go-to guide to get you from ‘yes’ to ‘I do’…

in a practice one first.

ONE MONTH TO GO

AFTER THE PROPOSAL

months before the wedding is also a good

Obviously the most important thing to

Getting engaged is overwhelming and

time to start thinking about dresses. Finding

focus on is the hen and stag parties, but

exciting in equal measures, so for a few

‘the one’ can take a while and boutiques

also book in a final dress fitting where you

weeks don’t stress about getting things

have limited weekend appointments, so

can try on your shoes and accessories.

sorted. If you’re really keen to start

there’s no harm in getting organised and

Give your venue copies of supplier

planning, set up a Pinterest board for

booking a try-on session.

contracts a month before too.

of wedding you’d like and what time of

9 MONTHS TO GO

TWO WEEKS TO GO

year you’d like to get married. It’s also a

If you’ve managed to find and book a

Write a list of photographs you’d like on

good idea to set a budget and have chats

venue then this a good time to send your

the day and give it to your photographer. If

with family members who might be

guests ‘save the date’ cards to let them

you can, meet them at your venue so you

contributing to the cost.

know about your impending nuptials.

can run through everything with them. If

initial ideas and start discussing the type

At this stage you may be overwhelmed

you’re jetting off straight after your

ONE YEAR TO GO

by websites, bridal magazines and lists. To

wedding, begin packing now so it’s not a

This is the ideal time to start making some

see the bigger picture, book to go along to

stress on the day.

of the bigger decisions about your

a wedding fair. This will give you a great

wedding. Write a provisional guest list so

idea of what’s available from cakes,

WEDDING WEEK

you have an idea of numbers, as the

caterers, bands and photographers. Plus,

This week will be busy but try to relax!

length of your list will determine the type

many exhibitors have discounted rates for

Have some beauty treatments booked so

and size of venue you go for. Once you’ve

brides booking on the day.

you’re ready for the big day, confirm the

got an idea, book appointments to see

final details with your venue and

venues. Also bear in mind that you may

6 MONTHS TO GO

need to book a registrar and arrange a

Now hopefully the bigger elements of the

setting up completed. Then, have a glass

wedding license.

wedding, such as your venue, caterer and

of wine and an early night before your

dress are all sorted, which makes way for

day commences…

Although it might seem too early, 12

suppliers and get any DIY projects and

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23/10/2015 17:23

6/7 Bell Walk, Uckfiel , East SussexTN22 SDQ Tel: 01825 763380 I 0182-5 763280 Mob: 07718 808878 I fross@weddingcollections.co.uk www.frossweddingcollections.co.uk

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26/10/2015 16:16

M\ITY

Design Service from Amity Call now to find out about our exclusive design service.

Our team has over 40 years experience in creating stunning interiors, from traditional to modern contemporary Our hands on approach means we are with you every step of the way, from initial consultation through to finished product.

To book an appointment call Carly Jackson (BA Hons) on 01689878418, or visit:

www.amity.uk.com Untitled-9 2

26/10/2015 15:14

ALL THE NEWS THAT MATTERS, LOCAL, NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL

e

/ti mesoftunbridgewells

@TimesofTW

g

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS

/@timesoftw

Im

/company/times-of-tunbridge-wells

(0;

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

Untitled-9 2

26/10/2015 15:14

ADVERTORIAL

SO

SOCIAL SOFA STYLE Sofas and Stuff in Eridge held a Farrow & Ball paint consultation evening recently, where customers were able to come along and learn more about interior design projects.

Sue from Farrow & Ball was on hand to give a professional 40-minute talk, then, along with her colleagues, Lydia and Sharon, gave some individual advice to customers as well as talking about the new wallpapers.

“Our fabulous Farrow & Ball event was a storming success, with lots of interior inspiration in the air,” says Nikki from Sofas and Stuff. “I know my colleagues also found the talk useful, as we have a lot of Sofas and Stuff customers who are teaming our sofas with Farrow & Ball paints. Thanks Farrow & Ball for sharing your tips and tricks with us.”

PHOTOS BY CRAIG MATTHEWS

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SOCIAL MEDICAL MAKEOVER Following a £1.4million refurbishment, the Sevenoaks Medical Centre celebrated their new look and services with a relaunch event. During the evening, guests were invited to explore the new facilities, which include an expanded physiotherapy suite and comprehensive women’s health services as well as a dietetics department.

“I look forward to welcoming local residents to the new Sevenoaks Medical Centre,” says Mikaela Saunders, Centre Manager.

“Patients in the surrounding area will greatly benefit from the accessibility of world-class consultants within the vicinity of their own community.” www.sevenoaksmedicalcentre.com PHOTOS BY PHIL GLOVER

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SOCIAL FEELING FOLKY Over 4,000 people basked in the Tenterden sunshine when the annual folk festival once again came to the town. The four day event saw Morris dancers from across the country making merriment on the streets, while the procession along the High Street showcased Flora, the festival queen â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a giant moving statue. Throughout the event there was also live entertainment in venues across the town, craft stalls, local food and drink and traditional folk fun.

PHOTOS BY LEWIS BROCKWAY

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EVENT

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SOCIAL TOP TOWN TRENDS Fashionistas gathered at Hoopers in Tunbridge Wells last month for a fundraising Fashion Show held in aid of local hospice charity ellenor. The event was attended by more than 100 guests who enjoyed an exclusive after-hours shopping experience accompanied by canapés and bubbly, followed by a catwalk showcase of the season’s new trends in fashion and accessories. The evening raised a total of £1,100 for ellenor, a Kent-based charity providing care and support for families facing terminal illness.

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SOCIAL BOND BONANZA More than 300 guests donned their tuxes and hedged their bets when a charity casino night was held at the Tonbridge Events Marquee. The Jayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bond Casino Royale charity event was held to raise money for Hospice in the Weald, and was in honour of Jason Nevin, who died at the hospice earlier this year. He had originally planned the event, but sadly passed away, so his sister Rebecca and closest friends threw the bash in his memory, raising ÂŁ24,718 for the charity. During the evening, guests played roulette and blackjack, bid in an auction and danced the night away.

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EVENT

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SOCIAL CHARITY SHOOT OUT ON TARGET All the big guns in the borough turned out for the Tunbridge Wells mayor’s annual clay pigeon shoot tournament. Guests at the West Kent Shooting School in Paddock Wood last month were greeted by mayor David Elliot, mayoress June Crowhurst and council leader David Jukes. The day was described as a ‘fantastic success’, with £1,800 being raised for the mayor’s charity ellenor, which helps families with children dealing with life limiting conditions.

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

Hever Castle became a riot of colour as 2,500 people took part in the second Run or Dye event of the year in the area. Runners and walkers were showered with environmentally friendly dye in the grounds of the castle for the ‘world’s most colourful 5km’. Participants and spectators also enjoyed a range of other related games and activities, and an afterparty, the ‘famous’ Dye Festival, in aid of Help for Heroes and other good causes.

CRAIG MATTHEWS

FAMILY FUN

ACTING ADVICE To celebrate Kent College, Pembury’s birthday, internationally renowned actor Clarke Peters visited the establishment to meet with pupils before giving a lecture to staff, students and the local community. During his time at the school, Clarke held a screen acting master classes with

Sackville School families, alumni and the local community came together to make the school’s first autumn fair a great success when it was held in the school’s grounds.

Throughout the day there were plenty of activities, including a football tournament, dance workshops, pony rides and a bouncy castle. The Fun Dog Show was a particular hit, with prizes presented by special guest, actor Richard Attlee, who plays Kenton Archer in BBC Radio 4’s long running serial, The Archers.

pupils and also met the school’s newspaper team.

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MAYORAL MOVES Organised by Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council in conjunction with the Tonbridge and Malling Leisure Trust, around 70 children with special needs from five different schools attended the 2015 Discovery Day event at the Angel Centre in Tonbridge. Throughout the day, children took part in a wide range of sporting activitiesincluding boccia, trampolining, Zumba, judo and cheerleading. The event was opened by mayor of Tonbridge and Malling, Cllr Owen Baldock, who even joined in with the activities.

To showcase their new autumn/winter collections, ladies fashion retailer Caroline Charles held a style event at their store in Tunbridge Wells. Caroline herself talked about her inspirations and the storyboard significance in creating the styles that make up the collection, while guests enjoyed fizz and macaroons before browsing the new collections.

CRAIG MATTHEWS

PASSION FOR FASHION

Good Neighbours Celebrating later life and new challenges was the theme of an event on National Older People’s Day. Organisations joined forces to raise awareness of the ‘services, support and opportunities’ available in Tunbridge Wells, at the Baptist church. The event was organised by Elaine Ferris, of the Good Care Group and Symone Salwan of Home Instead, with Good Neighbours in Tunbridge Wells. “We were delighted that Greg Clark MP was happy to take time out of his busy schedule to support the event, speaking to every exhibitor to thank them for the work they do,” says Mrs Ferris.

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ADVERTORIAL

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YOU CAN LIVE SAFE AND WELL AT HOME

Specialising in live-in care, The Good Care Group offers a personalised later life service for you and your loved ones, ensuring the support is there when you need it most. Kent Area Manager Elaine Ferris tells us what the group has to offer and how it can make all the difference TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE

carer to take a much needed break, we

explain all the options and will signpost you

BACKGROUND AND EXPERTISE OF

provide a one-to-one personalised service

based on your situation.

YOUR COMPANY

delivered by expertly trained professional

*’The Care Choice Gap’ report, commissioned by

The Good Care Group’s vision is to provide

carers. We are regulated by the Care Quality

Consultus Care & Nursing

a high-quality, professional homecare

Commission (CQC), so you can be assured

service unique to the health and care

of the highest standards of care (we

market. We aim to make a real impact on

specialise in dementia, Parkinson’s, stroke

quality of life by adopting a highly person-

and end-of-life, as well as other issues

centred approach to care. Our service is

affecting day-to-day living).

closely monitored and responsive to a client’s changing needs. We specialise in

FINDING CARE FOR A LOVED ONE IS A

‘live-in’ care and our service is fully

SENSITIVE SUBJECT. WHAT ADVICE WOULD

managed, which means that we oversee

YOU OFFER TO THOSE JUST STARTING

and support the care team assigned to

TO LOOK AT LATER LIFE OPTIONS?

clients. We have a specialist Admiral Nurse,

Take your time to consider all the options

Dr Penny Hibbard, who can provide help

available and don’t rush your decision;

and advice to families, as well access to

planning is key. A recent survey* showed

24/7 support.

that, of over 75-year-olds wanting to be cared for in their own homes, only 54%

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER?

think this could be a reality. Many people

Whether you’re looking for 24-hour live-in

don’t realise they can receive a high quality

care or a respite service to allow a family

of service at home. We are very happy to

TESTIMONIAL FROM A GP ’My complex patient with dementia was managed extremely well by the Good Care Group. The main carer assigned to him was well matched, experienced and cared deeply about my patient, developing a close relationship. I was given detailed, weekly updates by the carers from the regional care team. Hospital admissions were minimised and my patient’s physical and emotional needs were well served by the Good Care Group in his own home.

I would certainly use them again.’’

Dr Richard Sacks, BSc (Hons) BM DCH DRCOG MRCGP

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ADVERTORIAL

A FOCUS ON ENJOYING LIFE As a unique and inspiring group of senior living communities, Signature Care Homes offer truly exceptional levels of person-centred care and the highest possible quality of life. To find out more about what’s on offer, we discover how care and lifestyle go hand in hand at Miramar Care Home in Kent the sea from one side

maintenance and housekeeping are all taken

and a beautiful garden

care of. The focus of the Miramar is on

from the other.

enjoying life – with lots of activities on offer

If you or someone

on a daily basis, from arm chair yoga,

you know are looking

coastal walks, art club and music in the

at care home

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possibilities, then this

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The highlight of the day for many of the

they can cater for all

residents is also the fantastic first-class

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three-course menu for lunch and dinner!

dementia, nursing and

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the gorgeous garden, hairdressing salon and

also have a selection

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All the apartments have state-of-the-art en-suite wet rooms and laundry, bills,

01227 376292 www.signature-care-homes.co.uk

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L AT E R L I F E

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looking forward to later life Winter often brings the thought of family to the forefront of our minds – as we consider whose house we’ll be spending Christmas at or which gifts we need to wrap, our nearest and dearest are never far from our minds.

CHOOSING A CARE HOME for yourself or for a loved one may seem like a daunting task, but with so many excellent care homes and facilities locally, wherever you select is sure to provide a welcoming and secure environment for those needing care or a little extra assistance.

If an older person wants to stay in their own home and just needs a little support with daily chores, there’s a service to suit and support their lifestyle.

When more attention is required, there are other options that offer personal independence, with practical and medical support on hand 24 hours a day.

Read on to meet the local experts and find out how they can help to make later life fulfilling and enjoyable, whatever the circumstances.

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At Barchester, we know finding the right care home can be a daunting decision, but we'll do everything we can to help.

Our carefully selected and well-trained staff take time to get to know the people we care for. We help them to feel at home, to maintain their interests, make new friendships and improve their quality of life.

We have a range of services and facilities to suit all care needs:

Nursing care • Residential care • Dementia care • Respite care Assisted Living • Activities programme • Home-cooked food

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ADVERTORIAL

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IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT MAKE THE BIG DIFFERENCE TerraBlu Homecare supports and cares for people who want to remain in the comfort of their own home. Situated in the heart of your community, they provide individual care at home for older people, as well as those with disabilities, in the Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks and Tonbridge areas

Should someone who can no longer eat solid food eat grey mush?

Our carer Rose didn’t think so when she saw one of our clients being served a slop that looked like baby food at a day centre.

So, she vowed to make our client food that tastes and looks great. She even takes the client to the supermarket so they can plan her delicious meals together.

T

erraBlu Homecare are experts in providing homecare services to help the elderly and

people with dementia enjoy living in their own homes for as long as possible. All our clients have bespoke care plans to make sure the care we provide matches their needs exactly. But the most important elements of our care are often not listed on the agreed care plan.

It’s the time our staff spend getting to know our clients: their likes, their interests, their hopes and their concerns. And it’s the way they personalise the care they provide for every client to meet their individual needs, desires and anxieties.

Whether it’s finding inventive ways to serve appetising, puréed food, taking them on trips down memory lane or getting them out to

TREAT SOMEONE TO A TERRABLU HOMECARE HAMPER THIS CHRISTMAS Locally sourced Kentish treats from Weald Smokery: smoked salmon, Sussex ham and award-winning cheeses. Jams, chutneys and delicious biscuits presented in a traditional

meet friends, our expert home carers will find

wicker basket. A range of hampers, from the Duchess at £90 and Countess at £75,

out what is most important to each client and

to Her Ladyship at £65 and his Lordship at £60. Delivery included in West Kent.

weave it into the care they provide.

To find out more email info@terrablu.co.uk

Of course, we provide comprehensive homecare services – everything from domestic chores to help with medication, from personal care to specialist care for conditions like dementia or Alzheimer’s. And our care is affordable; we can provide one half-hour visit a week from as little as £12.46.

But it’s the little things we do that make the big difference. We not only help our clients stay in their own homes, but our care beyond the care plan helps them regain a good quality of life as well.

NO PLACE LIKE HOME TerraBlu offers expert homecare services in the Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks areas. To find out how TerraBlu Homecare can help you – or your elderly relative – enjoy independent living at home, call Julia Mead,

TerraBlu Homecare 9 Calverley Park Crescent, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2NB 01892 529 429 www.terrablu.co.uk

Director of Care, on 01892 529 429.

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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

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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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BUSINESS

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

motoring matters

The UK’s largest independent seller of used BMWs and Mercedes has plans to expand, creating over 300 new jobs in Kent. The Kent-based Big Motoring World Group has branches in West Malling and Canterbury, and aims to grow to other sites over the next four years, enabling the retention of 250 jobs in Kent and the potential to increase the number of employees to 550 by 2019.

Peter Waddell, Founder and CEO of Big Motoring World, says: “We are excited about providing more job opportunities in Kent and becoming one of the key employers in the area.” www.bigmotoringworld.co.uk

business boost Christmas is set to be busy for Tunbridge Wells traders, as the council is lifting charges in all its car parks from 4pm, every weekday from December 17 to 23. A programme of festive events has also been arranged, including the return of the ice rink to Calverley Grounds, from November 20 until January 3. Tourism and leisure cabinet member, Cllr Jane March, says: “The Christmas period is vital to all the town centre businesses. The council is delighted to support this initiative by offering free parking and adding to the town’s attractions with the ice rink.” www.tunbridgewellsatchristmas.com

LUCRATIVE LOCALE

VOGUE VICTORY

An independent fashion retailer in West Malling has been named Best New Business at the Drapers Independents Awards 2015. Monks Clothing of Swan Street accepted the award at The Brewery in London, where the industry elite came together to recognise and celebrate the sector’s achievements. With 13 targeted categories, the awards cover every aspect of the independent fashion industry, from Best Store Design to Lifestyle Independent of the Year. Drapers’ editorial director Eric Musgrave says: “In the 25 years since they were inaugurated in 1991, the Drapers Independents Awards have become a calendar fixture for the industry.” www.monksclothing.co.uk

South East businesses are booming, thanks in no small part to private finance group, Let’s Do Business Finance. In the last year, LDBF has helped over 60 companies expand, investing more than £900,000 and creating in excess of 200 jobs across the region. One example from 2012 was footballer turned hotelier Simon Colbran, who took over Smart and Simple Hotel in Tunbridge Wells with the help of a £26,000 Business Growth Loan. LDBF’s Head of Services, Ian Smallwood, says: “We’ve helped a range of companies in and around Tunbridge Wells and have funds to lend right now.” www.letsdobusinessgroup.co.uk

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ADVERTORIAL

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Jan Bull

n Check out the interest rates. These vary between lenders, depending on the type of mortgage on offer. They can range from below 5% fixed for life to around 7% fixed for life

JAN’S TOP TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL EQUITY RELEASE At 55+ Equity Release in Tunbridge Wells, you’ll find all the information needed about the different types of equity release available and the costs associated with equity release schemes. Specialist adviser and lifetime mortgage broker Jan Bull reveals some handy hints that could help

R

n Before committing to an equity release product, work through the illustration of the mortgage plan with an independent equity release adviser and with a solicitor.

This will clarify what the roll-up interest will be and the conditions for any early repayment charges n Discuss how circumstances may change in the future. For example, if you go into care, the mortgage has to be repaid. This is the same for residential mortgages, where a fixed rate product has been taken and not

eleasing cash from property to pay off an outstanding mortgage, undertake

“Unfortunately, many people are facing

specific to equity release

significant financial pressures when they

essential home renovations or buy a dream

start researching equity release. That

n There aren’t necessarily any early

holiday is a good solution to financial

pressure can lead to snap decisions, which

repayment charges though. If someone

challenges – but only if you take personalised

may not be the wisest in the long run.”

moves home, the mortgage is portable to

Jan’s top tips for everyone thinking of

the new property (subject to the property

advice, according to a Tunbridge Wells independent equity release specialist.

Jan Bull, head of 55+ Equity Release,

taking advantage of equity release financial

being approved) and some lenders don’t

products include:

make any early repayment charges after a fixed period

believes that people who could really benefit from taking advantage of equity release

n Whenever possible, involve families and

packages are being put off by ill-informed

everyone with a longer-term financial

For further information, please contact Jan

scaremongering in the national press.

interest in the property

Bull at 55+ Equity Release on 01892 458 780

“There is a wide range of products and

or info@55plusequityrelease.com

financial packages on the market, and mistakes

n Products are available alongside lifetime

can be made if people do not make the right

mortgages so that not all people have to

choices for their circumstances and their

see balances increase. Some lenders allow

families,” she says. “Equity release products

mortgage interest to be paid, or overpaid,

are not one-size-fits-all, off-the-shelf solutions.

so that the debt reduces over time

www.55plusequityrelease.com

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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.

Jacqueline

Whatever the reason, it appears that the word

Hardaway is a

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happened and a long legal process for

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see the Chief Executive of

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Varney, apologise to the

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something has gone wrong?

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bigger, faceless corporations.

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Mahie Abey is the

~ ,e;lfiiiliil,,'l"'"III"

The cutbacks in legal aid meant a lot of

what they want to say with a mutual

For further information on negligence

'For children, this could very well mean

only family

firms are now no longer providing the

losing contact with one of their parents.'

solicitor in Sussex

service that communities need. If someone

For all matrimonial and family advice,

ranked in the top

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please contact Mahie Abey on

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lawyers in the local community doing legal

01825 762281 or e-mail

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aid work anymore.

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What that means is that people don't know how to resolve their problems and

SEPARATING COUPLES 'GIVING UP ON COURTS'

are not making applications to the court.

Legal aid cuts are leaving separating

organisation Resolution, said: 'We have

parents without access to legal advice, with

consistently voiced our concerns that these

Jo Edwards, chair of family law

many giving up on settling disputes

statistics reflect the creation of a "lost

through the courts .

generation" of separated

Figures from Cafcass (Children and Family

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Court Advisory and Support Service) show

are simply giving up on the courts due

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uncertainty as to how to navigate the court

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Free legal advice - first Saturday of every month, phone for an appointment.

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.

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

Ale the best Tonbridge’s Humphrey Bean pub has been listed in the Good Beer Guide 2016.

The quality of its real ales, customer service, decoration and atmosphere were taken into account by the town’s branch of CAMRA – which supports real ale and the pub industry – and won them over.

Formerly a post office, the pub is these days one of over 1,000 outlets of pub chain JD Wetherspoon. Pub manager James Harris, says: “Staff at the pub work hard to ensure that the real ales on offer are kept in first-class condition at all times and the pub’s inclusion in the guide highlights this.”

PRIZE PORK Speldhurst Quality Foods lived up to their name at the Newmarket Open Weekend sausage competition, with its caramelised red onion sausage becoming the inaugural winner of the ‘flavoured’ category. The competition – the first of its kind – was judged by champion jockey Frankie Dettori and food critic Tom Parker-Bowles, and featured sausages from all over the UK. Popular across the South East, Speldhurst Quality Foods is owned by Lord de la Warr, head of the famous Sackville family. Their original sausage recipe came from a butcher’s in Speldhurst, but the sausages are now produced in nearby Eridge.

IN IT TO WIN IT Voting for the 2016 Taste of Kent awards has officially opened. With 15 categories for deciding everything WINNER

from the best cherries in Kent to the

Absolutely Souper

county’s best restaurant, any

A young foodie from Tunbridge Wells has had her recipe go nationwide, after it was chosen as this month’s New Covent Garden Soup of the Month.

21-year-old Ellie Davis, studying Biology at York, says, “As a student and avid soup maker, I enjoy experimenting with different and unusual flavours. I decided to make a pea soup and discovered some leftover tahini sauce in the fridge – little did I know that it would be a winning recipe!”

She won £5,000 for her chosen charity, the Council for At-Risk Academics, which pays for the relocation of foreign-based academics fleeing war and persecution.

– as long as they’re unique to Kent.

producer or eatery can be nominated Wealden farms dominated last year’s winners’ list, with Anno Distillers in Marden winning two awards for their Kent Dry Gin. Two Tenterden businesses – Chapel Down Winery and Silcocks Farm, – plus Biddenden Vineyards and Staplehurst’s Kingcott Cheese also picked up gongs.

Voting closes on January 4, and the winners are announced on March 3.

You can vote at www.tasteofkentawards.co.uk

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MATCHES MADE IN HEAVEN It’s not every day you’re invited to an exclusive dinner, hosted by a famous TV personality in one of your hometown’s most glamorous venues. But that’s exactly what Frederick Latty experienced when he attended a full-bodied food and wine pairing evening at Hotel du Vin in Tunbridge Wells…

I

n this reviewer’s humble opinion, one of

pretty much match anything with anything,

funny, charming and charismatic in

the best things about autumn and winter

and some of the best tipples money can

equal measure during our meet and greet

is that food and drink generally tends to get

buy are often the bargain bottles you

canapé reception.

infinitely better. Don’t get me wrong, I love a

stumble across just before closing

good barbie and beer at the height of

at your local Aldi. So far so good, then.

summer as much as the next guy, but there’s something extra special about the deep, rich flavours and warming comfort of seasonal dishes that come our way from September to February.

Which is why I was thrilled to receive an

If you don’t recognise the name, you’ll no doubt know Olly from popular TV programmes like Saturday Kitchen and This Morning, where

invitation to Spicy Wines for Autumn’s

he wows

Golden Glow at Hotel du Vin in Tunbridge

audiences and

Wells. Hosted by celebrity wine expert, Olly

viewers with a

Smith, the food and wine pairing evening is

seemingly

a real treat for seasoned connoisseurs and

limitless knowledge of, and passion for,

less experienced drinkers alike.

Since I fall largely into the latter category,

all things vino.

not need to know anything about wine to

Describing himself as ‘Matt Lucas and Boris

enjoy myself, but, as Olly insists, you can

Johnson’s lovechild’, he’s

I’m delighted to discover that, not only do I

122

Once our taste buds have been suitably tantalised with a glass of bubbly – the Nyetimber Classic Cuvée Brut 2010, to be precise – we’re ushered into the hotel’s Havana room. Here, a grand dining table has been laid out for all 20+ diners in attendance, giving us the chance to mingle and get to know our fellow guests.

I must admit, such a communal seating arrangement isn’t quite what I was expecting, but makes

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for a fun, immersive and sociable setup that only enhances the experience.

Olly is all wit, smiles and boundless enthusiasm as he introduces our second bottle, the 2010 Chardonnay from Neudorf Vineyards in New Zealand, accompanied by seared scallops with cauliflower, pancetta and capers. Now, I’m not usually a white wine drinker – more of a red man, myself – but this is unlike anything I’ve ever tasted, the chalky mineral flavours and citrus characters making for a flattering combination, perfectly complementing the

Last but not least is the 2005 Vin de

captivated our hearts and minds. Coffee and

Constance from South Africa, which is

truffles really put the boot in, so we say we

every bit as sweet as you’d expect any of

finish our glasses, say our goodbyes and bid

fabulous and sophisticated enough already,

the finest dessert wines to be. It’s matched

goodnight to what has been a thoroughly

a delightfully refreshing lemon sorbet is

with a pear belle Helene and, despite being

enjoyable and educational evening.

served as a palate cleanser before the arrival

a wine I would normally consider far too

of the main – and it’s certainly needed to

sickly, actually goes down far easier than I

in the knowledge that we’ve not only had a

offset the richness of what comes next.

would have anticipated. Granted, my guest

wonderful time tonight, but have also

insists she could drink it all night; each to

learned something new in the process.

their own, I suppose.

Whether or not it sticks when it comes to

soft, tender texture of the meat.

As if my guest and I didn’t feel utterly

Indeed, the venison fillet with roasted beets, glazed chicory tart, fondant potato with juniper and anise jus is right up my

To round things off, Olly regales us with

As we head to the taxi rank, we’re happy

writing this review tomorrow is another

street. The venison itself (albeit a touch too

anecdotes about some of his favourite

matter; for now, though, we’re sleepier,

rare for my taste), is succulent, juicy and

celebrity chefs, naturally leaving us all in

fuller, drunker, but altogether wiser than

goes perfectly with the evening’s third wine,

stitches. It’s now that his encyclopaedic

when we arrived.

the rich, fruity Château Siaurac Lalande de

knowledge of James Bond is also revealed,

Pomerol; with its red plums, spices and hint

as he remembers a time when his

of vegetables, it’s just the thing to wash

reputation as ‘the world’s biggest James

down such a decedent second course.

Bond fan’ once saved his bacon in a blind

While the plates are being cleared, my guest and I get talking to our dining

wine tasting competition.

The TV personality has undoubtedly been

companions. Naturally, the evening has

the star of the evening, but it’s the wines

drawn on and the glasses have been refilled

themselves that have well and truly

Hotel du Vin Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2LY 0844 748 9266 www.hotelduvin.com

countless times, so it’s safe to say our enjoyment has become somewhat amplified by now, to put it mildly. As selfie sticks appear and overly enthusiastic cheers follow many of Olly’s more memorable quips, it becomes increasingly apparent that we’re all getting – in the words of Michael McIntyre – completely and utterly ‘car parked’.

Ever the esteemed host, Olly does the rounds, effortlessly making each and every one of us feel entirely at home. And as he resumes his position master of ceremonies, it occurs to me that this man actually gets paid to drink great wine, eat great food and generally party the night away on a daily basis. Clearly I’m in the wrong business – may well be time to take out that long overdue Wine Society membership and dust off the collected works of Oz Clarke, methinks.

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

and cream (£9.45). The fare is fresh, wholesome and unmistakably Italian – a truly authentic taste of the continent rarely seen in the bigger corporate eateries in and around Tunbridge Wells.

Price Dishes are perhaps a touch more expensive than some of the Italian places you’ll find locally in terms of portion size, but the flavours are certainly worth the money.

Plus, you can’t put a price on great service in a dining space that makes you feel as comfortable as this one. It really comes down to a matter of what you’re after; if it’s a full-blown gourmet experience like ours, you won’t be disappointed.

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 Don Giovanni in Tunbridge Wells

This is one of those restaurants where you feel like you’re part of the furniture the moment you walk in. Our waitress is friendly, helpful and attentive, complimenting my

Intro

or a longer, more relaxed dinner. We’re

guest on her necklace and enquiring as to its

When it comes to food and drink, Tunbridge

definitely here for the latter of the two.

whereabouts, so she can pick one up for herself. The sommelier is equally charming,

Wells is well-known for its diversity and multiculturalism. Italian, Thai, Chinese,

Décor

treating us to a magic trick on our way out

Mexican and British all sit harmoniously

Don Giovanni is a great little place. In terms

and highlighting the many merits of drinking

side by side, leaving locals and visitors alike

of layout, it’s reminiscent of Chez JJ on

red wine through a straw!

spoilt for choice. But rather than visit one of

Camden Road; a snug and inviting corner of

the town’s many chain restaurants, my

the town’s culinary scene, providing a

The only thing is…

guest and I opt for a leisurely three-course

relatively small but nonetheless warm and

The portion sizes could be a bit bigger for

meal at the independent, family-run Don

intimate setting for our meal. It’s the kind of

how much money you pay. Don’t get me

Giovanni on Calverley Road as the setting

restaurant that’s perfect for a first date,

wrong, the flavours are striking and the

for our first dinner date.

where you’re given enough privacy to enjoy

presentation impressive, but I’m a growing

one another’s company, but feel part of a

lad with a hearty appetite, so if I’m going to

communal event at the same time.

ditch smaller portions of fancier food for

Location

more traditional, homemade cooking, I want

Largely home to restaurants of a more Oriental persuasion, Calverley Road is

Menu

it to be just like mama used to make across

smack bang in the middle of Tunbridge

To start, my guest and I tuck into a mixed

the board, in quantity as well as quality.

Wells town centre. The restaurant is close to

Italian platter to share (£12.20). For my own

the main shopping district and Royal

second course, I opt for chicken breast in a

Don Giovanni

Victoria Place, as well as the hustle and

mushroom sauce flambé with vecchia

100 Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent

bustle of Camden Road, making it ideal for

Romagna (£14.80), while my guest relishes

TN1 2UN

keen shoppers in need of a quick bite to eat,

her spaghetti carbonara with smoked bacon

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STAR BAKER

Paul Hollywood talks baking, bikes and those blue eyes… reduce contestants – even the “very

colour eyes as me. It is something that

professional” ones to jelly-like jitters

runs through both judges.”

when he and fellow judge Mary Berry assess their efforts.

Despite the steely glares and his tough judging style though, Hollywood

“People will come up and say, ‘Can you judge that?’,” he reveals, joking that he

about himself.

tends to get nervous whenever he sets foot in a bakery. “I get that in petrol

notes the master baker, who lives

stations, in pubs. I try not to go to

in Kent with his cookery author wife

supermarkets now.”

Alex and their teenage son Joshua.

PA PHOTO/BBC/WALL TO WALL MEDIA LIMITED/STEPHEN PERRY

isn’t on prime-time TV.

isn’t without a sense of humour “My sense of humour’s good,”

As well as a lover of cake, Paul

“I’m from the North West and that’s

also has another passion – vehicles.

where my sense of humour comes from.

He recently filmed a programme for

You’ve got to have a sense of humour

BBC Two, License to Thrill: Paul

doing TV. If you haven’t, there’s

Hollywood Meets Aston Martin,

something not quite right with you.”

which saw him train up to race

Hailing from a long line of bakers,

and join one of the Aston teams.

Hollywood relies on that sense of

Paul, who is a keen racing and

humour when he finds himself being

motorbike fan confesses he is an

bombarded with questions about the

adrenaline junkie, although his fellow

colour of his eyes.

Bake Off stars aren’t quite so enthused.

“They’re blue, you know what I mean?”

T

Judging is something Paul can’t seem to escape from, even when the series

“Mary sat on one of my bikes last

he says. “Some people say ‘if you had

year, but she hasn’t been on a ride on it,”

brown eyes, would you be a different

he says. “She did say she’d go on the

person’? What kind of ridiculous

back of one of them, so maybe that’s

question is that?! I mean, you are what

one for the future... Maybe for her 90th,

you are. Mary’s actually got the same

I’ll stick her on the back!”

he Great British Bake Off has been off our screens a mere few weeks

and we’re already left with a cake-sized hole in our Wednesday nights. A record 14.5million people tuned in to the final to see Nadiya Hussain crowned 2015’s Bake Off queen, making it the most watched “This year the contestants were exceptionally good from the off,” says Paul Hollywood. “They didn’t bond like some of the other groups did right from the beginning, but from week three or four they did. They were so into their work and very professional in the way they attacked everything.”

Fans of the cosy baking series, which moved to BBC One last year, will be familiar with the way the 49-year-old can

PA PHOTO/BBC/LOVE PRODUCTIONS/MARK BOURDILLON

programme of the year.

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26/10/2015 09:37

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THOUGHT FOR FOOD This month, our own celebrity chef, Rosemary Shrager discovers anything can happen...

H

aving never been to the country before, I have just spent three weeks

Now I could continue.

I decided to turn the heat down on the

I then proceeded to make three brandy snaps

main oven by 30oc although not having the

at a time because we really only had one shelf.

benefit of a working temperature gauge it

At the same time I gave instructions on how to

was trial and error. I cut the shortbread

do the sandwiches. The chef was bemused

people, wanting to please us, making sure

biscuits and placed them onto the baking

and didn’t quite understand the crusts had to

everything was perfect and the generosity

tray. The next thing I smelled was burning;

be taken off and they had to be neat.

was overwhelming.

yes the biscuits were black. Now we knew

in India working on a documentary

for BBC2 and it was an experience of a lifetime.

What struck me was the kindness of the

We decided at one point to do a tea party, and invite the whole family we were staying with, around 30 people!

‘No problem’, I thought, so I went

the thermostat was gone.

OK Rosemary, back to the drawing board. I

I was duly ticked off by the owner of the house for throwing away the profiteroles they thought could be used for something. OH

had lost two bakes so far and had one and

NO, they could not be used after falling on the

half hours left until the party. I had some

unbelievably dirty floor.

By now the tea was very late and we all

shopping and found a place that would be

vol-au-vent cases and chicken on hand so

similar to our local Indian corner shop, to

quickly made a white sauce and steamed a

ended up with was chicken vol-au-vents,

buy everything. It had most of the products I

chicken breast adding some cheese. I had to

lemon tartlets, brandy snaps and sandwiches,

wanted. The owner was getting very excited

get something on the table.

but not very much of it.

seeing what was going into my basket, so he

Then, just as I was getting the profiteroles

All this amounted to four and a half hours

offered me tea, water or anything that I

out of the oven, I broke the stool I was sitting

work! It was an afternoon of cooking I will

desired. I opted for a bottle of water.

on. The profiteroles ended up all over the

never forget. But then I should have

floor and there was pandemonium.

remembered that we were in India where

a taxi, drove back to the house and got

Everybody was trying to pull me back up

anything can and does happen…

everything out on the table in a side room;

while I was pulling down, trying to stop the

Speak next month.

the kitchen was quite small.

hot shelves from falling onto people. It could

Eventually I put all the bits and pieces into

My menu was orange and lemon cake,

not have got any worse.

profiteroles with crème patisserie, brandy

I managed to get up and carried on as if

snaps, orange tulies, shortbread, lemon

nothing had happened. Everybody else

tartlets and baby meringues along with egg

was in total shock. “We have a party to

mayonnaise and cucumber sandwiches.

finish”, I bellowed.

www.rosemaryshrager.com

First I made the shortbread mixture and put it into the fridge to rest and then made the lemon mixture for the tarts, which also went into the fridge to chill along with the brandy snap mixture.

Next came the cake. The oven was on 180oc with me not realising it was new with the blue plastic still on it in places.

It hadn’t been tested and unfortunately thetemperature gauge seemed to be different to those on our ovens.

Result? The cake was burned black. Never mind. (I lost it.)

Then suddenly I had the family coming in to cook their lunch and I found myself in the corner sitting on a plastic stool. I could just about reach the stove and I had a baby oven to my right on the work surface. So, I made the profiteroles with no piping bag – who needs one – and they were great; beautifully cooked to a nice golden brown.

I put them on the top of the small oven to cool then put the final tray in, I could only cook one tray at a time. In the meantime the family lunch was nearly finished cooking and the chapattis were going out.

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Honey Roasted PaTSnip & Bramley Apple Soup

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Klin Smoked Trout Fillet Pate

Slow BraisedNeckFillet of Lamb in Red Wine and Rosemary Jus

Mousse of Dark Chocolate & Grand Marnier

Ham Hock & Mustard TeITine

Classic Salmon En Crome

Homemade Pumpkin & Nuuneg Ravioli

Apricot & Creamy Goat' s Cheese Nut Roast

Irish Cream & White Chocolate Cheesecake

PUB - RESTAURANT - B&B

138

Classic Crown Cheeseboard

The Green, Groombridge, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 9QH I 01892 864 742 ,1 ,1 ,1 .rhecr路m1 ugToombridge .com

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3 Course Christmas Party Menu £2 7.00 (Week day) £31.00 (Week end)

Christmas Day 2015

(V) Wild mushroom Soup with truffle cream & Parsley

Cox apple & parsnip soup

Whisky cured Scottish salmon

Chicken and foie grns parfait

£55.00 with chestnuts and chervil

herb cremefraiche, Melba toast

brioche and pear chutney

Terrine offoie gras & Barbary duck fig chutney & port glaze (v) Baked goat cheese salad roasted beets, shallots, honey & thyme Seared scallops

Juniper scented smoked venison carpaccio

pickled red beets, rocket & a winter berry dressing Crayfish, prawn & crab cocktail quail egg & Keta caviar

Jerusalem artichoke puree, crispy pancetta (supplement £3)

Traditional Christmas tm·key

roast bronze turkey breast stuffed with chestnuts and sage stuffing, wrapped in pancetta, pan gravy & homemade cranberry relish

Grilled fillets of sea bass

braised fennel, chateau potatoes, mussels & bouilliabaise sauce Pine nut & herb encrusted rump of Sissinghurst Castle lamb

Tournedos of beef .

green beans, dauphinoise potato, rosemary JUS Slow roasted belly of pork

creamy Savoy cabbage, button onions, bacon lardons, calvados sauce & thyme infused mash 28 day matured fillet of beef 6oz

topped withfoie gras butter, served with wilted spinach, parmemer potatoes and portjus (£6 supplement) (v) Spiced butternut squash & sweet potato provencale

tournedos of (28 day aged)beeffillet, caramelised porcini mushrooms and trufjledjus Dover sole

grilled clover sole with citrus infused crab and baby shrimp butter (the above main courses are served with seasonal winter vegetables and roast potatoes) Goat cheese tart

baby vegetable, chestnut mushroom & goat cheese tart, with trufjled honey

A selection of Christmas desserts from our festive trolley

herb couscous Selection of Deserts from our desert trolley

School Hill, Lamberhurst, Near Tunbridge Wells TN3 SDQ 01892 890277 Formally known as La Dolce Vita

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FOOD

SO

Eat, Drink & be Merry

Great food and drink has always been a key part of Christmas celebrations. Come December 25, friends and families all over the UK will be prepping the veg, basting the turkey and wrapping the pigs in preparation for the main meal, breaking bread and pulling crackers with loved ones and getting in the festive spirit with their nearest and dearest.

But if you’d rather not do the cooking this year, there are plenty of alternative options available right on our doorstep.

Indeed, with so many mouth-watering menus on offer at a variety of eateries in and around Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks and the Weald, you’ll be well and truly spoiled for choice when it comes to eating out.

And there’s more than just the traditional turkey and Brussels sprouts too. You might be in the mood for some fig and goat’s cheese parcels with sweet chilli dip, followed by a local venison and stilton short crust pastry pie; alternatively, duck liver pâté with chestnut and poached pear could be more your thing, accompanied by baked cod on baby spinach with parsley sauce.

Whatever you fancy, you’re bound to find something that will delight your taste buds in our part of the world.

So, rather than slave away at the stove on Christmas morning, why not sit back, relax and let those delectable treats come to you? Read on for some top dishes that will get you in the Yuletide mood over the most wonderful time of the year…

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Take your pick from these fantastic festive menus

Christmas Day menu £85 per person

Festive lunches Glass of Champagne on arrival Amuse bouche

2 courses £19.50

3 courses £25

Jerusalem artichoke mousse – roquefort straw

***

TO START

TO START Country style pâté

Roast celeriac soup – chestnut crumble, sliced truffle, croutons Roast sea scallops – deep fried oyster, dill and cucumber relish, breakfast radish Dorset crab mayonnaise – avocado purée, watermelon, Parmesan tullie, charred baby gem Duck liver parfait – coffee gel, almonds, clementines, toasted brioche Buckhurst game and leek terrine – baby turnips, thyme toast, black truffle dressing TO FOLLOW Norfolk bronze turkey – parsnips, roast potatoes, pigs in blankets, sprouts, cranberry and turkey sauce Wild halibut – mussel and chive ‘chowder’, buttered chard, caviar and oyster sauce 35-day aged beef sirloin – 24-hour braised ox cheek, horseradish mash, braised English carrot, barolo sauce Venison – loin, onion and blue cheese layered potatoes, apples, chicory, juniper jus Shallot – tarte tatin, roquefort, wilted garlic greens, salsa verde Sorbet – pink Prosecco and passion fruit TO FINISH Tunbridge Wells Hotel Christmas pudding –

Jerusalem artichoke veloute with cèpes and rosemary (v) Smoked Scottish salmon with grain mustard mayonnaise, beetroot and dill

thyme tuille, passion fruit sorbet

TO FOLLOW Traditional roast turkey, sage and onion stuffing, bacon wrapped chipolatas Slow braised feather blade of beef, bourguignonne garnish Fillet of salmon with mussels, spring onion, tomato and marjoram Potato gnocchi with Mediterranean vegetables and Parmesan cream (v) *** TO FINISH Traditional Christmas pudding, brandy sauce Stilton and Wensleydale cheese, homemade chutney, crackers, celery and grapes

candied hazelnuts, mandarin sorbet cream, toasted hazelnuts Cheese – selection of British cheeses, chutney, grapes, crackers Coffee or tea and mince pies

TO START • Lobster and king prawn cocktail with crisp lettuce, avocado, pink grapefruit and cocktail sauce • Chicken liver and black truffle parfait with Muscat grape chutney and toasted brioche • Boudin noir and caramelised apple terrine ...........

TO FOLLOW • Free range roast turkey ballotine with all the traditional trimmings • Scottish fillet steak with truffle creamed cabbage with bacon and Yorkshire pudding • Pancetta wrapped monkfish with braised cockles and lentils, lemon sabayon ...........

TO FINISH • Classic Christmas pudding with brandy sauce • Panettone and chocolate bomb stuffed with vanilla ice cream, sour cherries, pistachio nuts and clementine • Eggnog and gingerbread trifle ...........

Cinnamon panna cotta, pear compote, roasted hazelnut granola

Chocolate orange – mandarins, Frangelico and espresso affrogato – vanilla ice

£99 PER PERSON

***

English custard, winter fruit compote Iced passion fruit parfait – vanilla,

CHRISTMAS DAY MENU

• Coffee and mince pies

Coffee and mints

...........

***

Full pre-payment is required. For Christmas

To book a table call 01892 520 331 reservations@spahotel.co.uk www.spahotel.co.uk

bookings please call 01892 320 749 or email reception.tunbridgewells@hotelduvin.com

For reservations please call 01892 530 501 www.thetunbridgewellshotel.com

142

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

SO

CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU CHRISTMAS MEALS

FESTIVE FEASTS 2 courses £18.95 3 courses £23.95 ____

2 courses and coffee £18.95 3 courses and coffee £22.95

2 courses £20 3 courses £25

TO START

Leek, potato and Parmesan soup with brie croutons

TO START ✸ Sweet potato and

TO START Honey roasted parsnip and Bramley apple soup

Individual platter of smoked trout, salmon and mackerel with horseradish dip and toasted ciabatta

butternut squash soup (v)

Stilton and pear pâté with chutney and oakcakes

✸ Traditional prawn cocktail

Kiln smoked trout fillet pâté

Fig and goat’s cheese parcels with sweet chilli dip

✸ Duck liver pâté with chestnut

Ham hock and mustard terrine

Pan seared chorizo with balsamic roasted cherry tomatoes

Homemade pumpkin and nutmeg ravioli ____ TO FOLLOW Roasted crown of Norfolk turkey

Local venison and stilton shortcrust pastry pie with potato dauphinoise and seasonal vegetables

Classic salmon en croute

Moroccan lamb with warm flatbread yogurt mint dip and pilau rice

Apricot and creamy goat’s cheese nut roast ____

Garlic and lemon king prawn salad tossed with buttered new potatoes

Irish cream and white chocolate cheesecake Classic Crown cheeseboard ____

TO FOLLOW ✸ Roast turkey, duck fat roasted potatoes, Buckhurst chipolatas wrapped in bacon, vegetables and gravy

Brie, mushroom, walnut and cranberry Wellington with new potatoes and mixed leaves

Mousse of dark chocolate and grand marnier

✸ Balsamic mushrooms on garlic crostini

TO FOLLOW

Local roast turkey with all the trimmings, served with goose fat roasted potatoes, honey glazed parnips and seasonal vegetables

Slow braised neck fillet of lamb in red wine and rosemary jus

TO FINISH Traditional English Christmas pudding

and poached pear

TO FINISH

✸ Baked cod on baby spinach with parsley sauce ✸ Venison steak with Kentish blue mashed potato, glazed parsnips and redcurrant jus ✸ Broccoli and stilton stuffed pancakes (v)

Christmas pudding with brandy sauce White chocolate and cranberry cheesecake with winter berry compote Exotic fresh fruit salad with vanilla ice cream Zingy mojito sorbet

TO FINISH ✸ Christmas pudding with brandy sauce or brandy butter ✸ Lemon posset

Stonegate cheese and biscuits oatcakes and chutney Freshly brewed coffee served with homemade shortbread

✸ Date and ginger pudding with toffee sauce and vanilla ice cream ✸ Dark chocolate pot

01892 864 742 www.thecrowngroombridge.com

✸ Cheese and biscuits We’d love you to join us, so give us a call on 01892 750 237 or send us an email at thebrecknockarmskent@gmail.com 01892 770 278 www.dorset-arms.co.uk

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• ~

Cos~ rfurCanor KENT'S LEADING COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL

@,®,AA****

CHRISTMAS EVENTS PRIVATE DINING - ~ lli,e, 'P/~,i,

VEGAS NIGHT

Experience Eastwell Manor's private festive dining in one of

Sunday, 27th December 2015

the Manor's exquisite oak-panelled dining rooms. We will be

An entertaining, American-themed evening of glitz and glamour.

delighted to tailor-make a menu to suit your budget and

Black Tie or Tuxedo optional and a chance for the ladies

requirements. For any size group from eight to eighty people.

to sparkle. Start the evening with a 'Vegas' cocktail at 7.00 pm

From £42 per person

followed by our 'American' menu finishing with coffee and popcorn. Enjoy the sound of our smooth 'Sinatra' style singer with dancing in the Great Hall and try your luck at the 'fun'

PANTO AT THE PAVILION - tit,,,~

casino and blackjack tables.*

Sunday, 13th December 2015

£80 per person

Join Aladdin, Wishee Washee, Widow Twankey and the lovely Princess Jasmine as they endure the evil Abanazar and his wicked plans to become the most powerful ruler of them

MOTOWN NIGHT

all. .. With a whole host of other magical characters to meet...

Monday, 28th December 2015

you are in for a real panto treat... 'Oh Yes You Are'! Start the

The evening commences at 7.00 pm with a 'Motown' Cocktail.

evening with supper with the stars.

A superb dinner awaits you in the Manor Restaurant followed

£35 per person half price for children under 12

by live singers "Motown Magic" - dance the night away to

Two course supper in The Pavilion Restaurant followed by the performance. Supper from 4.30 pm. Performance 6.30 pm

£80 per person

favourite Motown tunes.*

CHRISTMAS BALLS

1980'S DISCOTHEQUE

Friday nth December & Friday 18th December 2015 *

Tuesday, 29th December 2015

BOXING DAY BALL

Join us in the Great Hall at 7.00 pm where we will be serving

Saturday 26th December 2015 The evenings commence with a champagne and canape reception in the Great Hall followed by a special four course dinner including coffee and petits fours. After dinner enjoy

Pina Coladas before going through to the Manor Restaurant and savouring a typical 1980's menu. After dinner our resident DJ will play 1980's music and keep you dancing all night long.*

£80 per person

dancing to our resident live band.*

£95 per person Black Tie Events

* until

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SCHOOLS

SO

EDUCATION NEWS Rabbit Reward Dulwich Prep in Cranbrook had a surprise visitor to their assembly after pupil Eleanor Aung won an Alice

future focus

in Wonderland themed national short story competition. The White

Goudhurst’s Bethany School has

Rabbit came to present her

teamed up with West Malling business

with her prizes courtesy of

E2W to develop the Enabling Futures

Macmillan, who were

programme for Year 12 pupils,

celebrating 150 years since

designed to help them select, secure

Lewis Carroll’s seminal

and succeed in their future careers.

novel was published.

“It is important that students are

Eleanor was rewarded for

encouraged to fulfil their full academic

her winning entry with a hamper of books for herself and more for the

potential as well as prepare for their

school library. Her story, Alice Through The Picture Frame, was highly

futures,” says Mark Freed, CEO of

commended by the judges for its imagination and storytelling knack.

E2W. “Our programme is designed to educate students on their choices post A-level and to help and support them while they make the choice that is right for them. The programme also develops key employability skills and prepares them for the ever-changing world beyond education.”

PERKY PIGLETS WORLD CUP WONDER

Mayfield School welcomed two porky additions to

basic pig husbandry, and how farming methods

their roster – a pair of piglets! Enthusiastically

have changed to meet mass production demands.

received by the 20 girls that make up ‘Pig Club’,

Paul Christian, Head of Lower School and Pig

the weaners will be reared by the girls under the

Club’s architect, says, “The focus is on rearing

supervision of local farmer Jonathan Bobbett. Pig

happy and healthy pigs, as well as – further down

Club will learn about ethical food production,

the line – the marketing and selling of the meat.”

Rugby World Cup fever ran high at The Judd School in Tonbridge when Saracens player Juan Figallo visited the school.

Arranged by Sanlam, the Sevenoaks-based wealth manager and Saracens sponsor, the Argentine international spent four hours training boys of all ages in scrummaging and defence techniques.

“I had a fantastic day working with the children and enjoyed seeing what they were capable of, whatever their age or level. There was certainly some budding talent,” says Figallo, who also played at the 2011 World Cup. “It was definitely a difficult session but they worked through it and rose to the challenge – their enthusiasm and energy was fantastic.”

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-

SO

~,....!.'

..,, .,,

Junior's day nursery

Vinehall

TONBRIDGE

ROBERTSBRIDGE, EAST SUSSEX

Adjacent to Tonbridge Train Station Full daycareâ&#x20AC;˘ 3 months to 5 years Open 51 weeks per year For more information on Child places and Staff vacancies contact: Email: tonbridge@juniorsdaynursery.co.uk Tel: 01732 365188 Mobile: 07462 641341

www.juniorsdaynursery.co.uk

146

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SO

rt

6 teaching Specialist support staff for schools

The leading SEN recruitment agency for teaching assistant jobs across Kent We are currently recruiting teaching assistants for several mainstream and SEN schools across Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks.

The Teaching Support team are proud to be education recruitment specialists with knowledge in recruiting for the following educational establishments:

We have both temporary and permanent roles with immediate start dates as well as vacancies due to start over the coming months.

• Pupil Referral Units

• SEN Schools

• Primary & secondary schools

• FE

Colleges

If you are looking for a new role or would simply like to find out more about the service we offer please do get in touch and we will be happy to help.

01622 674209 I www.teaching-support.com I kent@teaching-support.com

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W H AT S O N

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

5TH » Trumpet Tunes

He’s played with Harry Connick Jr and he’s performed on Oprah: now, legendary trumpeter Leroy Jones is bringing the soul and spirit of New Orleans to the Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells. Joined by Welsh jazz singer Ian Shaw and The Horne Section’s Joe Stilgoe, he’ll be playing a mixture of old bebop classics and his own compositions, and showing why he’s become one of the Big Easy’s best-loved musicians over the last four decades.

KATJA TOIVOLA

Tickets cost £21 plus booking fees.

Book now from the Box Office, or online at www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

7TH » Devilish Charm

8TH » Quartets and Clarinets

13TH » High Standard

Gounod’s Faust has been reimagined as

performing a set at Frant Church from 8pm to

year’s Local & Live, local trio The Standard

a concert for this one-off performance at

raise money for the church’s conservation. Backed

Lamps return to Tunbridge Wells for an

the Stag Theatre in Sevenoaks. It tells

by one of Norway’s most in-demand ensembles,

intimate gig at The Forum, with support

the tale of Faust, an aging scholar who

the Engegård Quartet, she’ll be playing music by

from The Parkas and Mystery Clarke. Their

sells his soul to the devil in exchange

Vaughan Williams, Grieg, Mozart and more. Since

witty, bluesy brand of rock has seen them

for eternal youth, and Marguerite, the

winning the prestigious BBC Young Musician of

bag a spot on national tours with The Who

beautiful young woman he leads astray.

the Year award in 1984, she has performed all over

and The Bluetones – but, having

A professional orchestra joins Kentish

the world and released albums to rave reviews. A

namechecked Tunbridge Wells in one of

Opera’s chorus for a dramatic new

licensed bar will be operating.

their song titles, their hearts seem very

rendering of an old classic.

Tickets cost £18 and are available from Frant Stores, www.wegottickets.com and Paul Barber on 01892 750 665

much in Kent.

Originally written as an opera, Charles

Tickets start from £10 and are available at www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk 148

Prodigious clarinettist Emma Johnson is

After a triumphant headline slot at this

Tickets cost £8 and can be bought online from www.twforum.co.uk. Over 16s only.

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W H AT S O N

SO

14TH » Mid Sussex Murders

If Halloween hasn’t sated your appetite for the grisly, you’ll love A Turn for the Nurse at The Forge in Halland. This Smoke and Mirrors production is a murder mystery play that comes with a threecourse meal – you’ll watch Professor Herbert Fortescue battle problems including escaping patients and the unwanted return of his ex-wife while tucking into your dinner. For dedicated audience members, there’s an optional fancy dress theme of doctors and nurses.

Tickets cost £39 and must be booked in advance. Ring 07775 797 859 or visit www.hauntedmysteryweekend.co.uk to reserve a place.

14TH » Lights, Stage, Action!

21ST » Beet It

you’ve got a week to catch Brendan Murray’s

2015/16 season off to a classical start with a

out tours in the UK and Canada, Canadian

new comedy Seeing The Lights at the Oast

concert celebrating some of Beethoven’s

Theatre in Tonbridge. A brother and sister are

finest pieces. Set in the stunning confines of

comedienne Katherine Ryan brings her

brought together by their ailing mother’s

Tonbridge School Chapel, you can hear them

desire to celebrate her 80th birthday with a

perform Missa Solemnis, one of the

family trip to Blackpool, but their issues

composer’s lesser-known but most critically

threaten the outing. Catch it from 8pm every

acclaimed works, among other compositions

day except Sunday, for which there’s a special

of his. A must-hear for lovers of choral and

3pm matinee performance.

orchestral music, the concert starts at 7.30pm.

shows like 8 Out Of 10 Cats, Mock the Week

Tickets cost £7.50 for members and £10 for non-members. Buy online from www. oasttheatre.com or by phone at 01732 363 849

Tickets cost £15 for adults and £8 for students, and can be bought on the door or online at www.tonphil.org.uk

Tickets cost £17 and are available online from www.trinitytheatre.net

Premiering on Saturday November 14th,

Tonbridge Philharmonic Orchestra get their

25TH » Kat Comedy A rising star in the comedy world who’s sold

Kathbum stand-up tour to Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells on a rearranged date. Expect belly laughs from the wry observations on Canadian life and her family that have led to her becoming a staple of primetime comedy and Have I Got News For You.

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C U LT U R E

SO

This welcome boom in the entertainment section of our town is a fantastic thing, for musicians, venues and the public.

It is a fact that Tunbridge Wells is now a music destination!

QUESTION TIME

INSIDE VIEW The town is alive with the sound of music, says our music columnist, Paul Dunton

N

ot so many moons ago, Tunbridge

the weekends, it also hosts an array of

Wells was a bit of a ghost town when

original acoustic showcases every week

it comes to live music. In truth one of the

on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Sundays

main reasons was largely down to the

in addition to a ‘singers night’ on the last

change in licencing laws whereby venues

Monday of each month.

were expected to pay a large annual fee

www.thegreylady.co.uk

stretching well into the thousands. This

These days many pubs situated in the

proved to be the death knell for many live

town have rediscovered their appetite for

venues across the UK and of course many

live music and are once again hosting an

musicians were also starved of work.

open mic nights, covers band, duos, blues

Thankfully those laws have changed;

and jazz themed evenings and some

however for any serious music venue the

original bands. At my last count, regular

costs of staging regular live music

live music can be found at The Beau Nash,

remains considerably high.

The Royal Oak, Cassidy’s Bar, Sankeys,

These days the town is now bursting

Scallywag Cafe, The Trading Post, The

with live music of all genres and tastes.

Spa Hotel, The Pantiles Hotel, Trinity

The Forum continues to fly the flag for

Theatre, The Assembly Halls, The Bedford

Tunbridge Wells, battling against the odds

Pub, The Prince of Wales, The Cross Keys,

year in year out it provides an integral hub

The Black Horse, No.9 Smokehouse, St

for the local community to enjoy an array

John’s Yard, The Jazz House at Pure Bar/

of international, national and local acts. It

Club and The King Charles The Martyr

is a wonderful venue; the envy of many

offers a selection of classical concerts

towns – however it needs supporting

throughout the year.

more than ever and if it is not well

This welcome boom in the

supported it won’t survive and that would

entertainment section of our town is a

be a disaster for the town.

fantastic thing, for musicians, venues and

www.twforum.co.uk

the public. It is in my mind something that

The Grey Lady Music Lounge is another

is now becoming part of the town’s

dedicated independent music venue that

reputation and modern heritage. It is a fact

hosts music six days a week and has been

that Tunbridge Wells is now a music

going for close to 15 years. Offering a

destination! This is something we should

selection of jazz/blues and soul bands at

all cherish and enjoy, however looming in the background like an unwanted shadow is the risk of the ‘boom n bust’ effect, with so much music on offer but not enough support for the wheels to keep on turning.

The reality is, to keep music live we need to keep venues alive. Unless we all collectively support our local venues, live music and the arts as a whole will fade away and it could happen at an alarming rate. So, with something available for everyone’s musical tastebuds available across the town, please enjoy it and go back for more! A brilliant website that hosts all the events that take place in the borough

MICHAEL HOUGHTON

is www.tunbridgewellsevents.co.uk; it is the most thorough site around detailing anything and everything! And, for a brief weekly live music update please refer to my gig guide in the Times of Tunbridge Wells newspaper.

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Saturday I4th November - General Sale Saturday Sth December - Fine Sale

James Osborne. A patinated bronze of a standing Irish wolfhound. £520 hammer

The Penwith Portfolio, 1973. Containing a suite of twelve lithograph prints. £4800 hammer

A 19th Century Louis Philippe walnut commode. £840 hammer

Barbara Hodgkins (20th Century American).

Abstract, brushed gilt bronze and marble. £700 hammer

We are an independent auction house, offering a full appraisal and consultancy service.

Ideally situated in the Pantiles.Tunbridge Wells we are accessible by road or rail to London and are happy to cover most of the South East.

We invite consignments of good quality Antique furniture, silver, jewellery, paintings, objects etc for future Fine Art and Antique sales.

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

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In the heart of Brasted High Street within three building;, housing twenty-three

dealers each selling a variety of collective and decorative items.

We have a vast range of stock that changes daily and you can find anything

from a wine glass to a wardrobe and everything in between.

Friendly and experienced dealers will be pleased to source any

special items at your request.

With Christmas just around the corner we offer a wide selection of quality gifts and antique gems.

Items can be found dating from the

~

with

16th, to the 2oth,

De.co, V~e-andRefM.

Clocks and Garniture • Crystal and Glass • Furniture Handbags • Jewellery • Maps • Paintings and Prints • Silver We also provide a bespoke upholstery and furniture restoration service Opening Hours Monday to Saturday 1Oam to 5pm Sundays and Bank Holidays l 2.30pm to 4.30pm We accept all major credit and Debit cards

Courtyard Antiques, High Street Brasted, Kent TN16 IJE Telephone front shop: 019595 563522 Courtyard shop: 01959 564483 ww-w.courtyardantiques.co.uk You can find us on the A25 between Sevenoaks and Westerham

Bespoke Picture Framing Fine Art Dealers All framing work is done in our own workshop ensuring your treasured possessions are in safe hands at all times. We have state of the art equipment, which we use to achieve high quality, traditional framing with the latest techniques. We are agents for all the major suppliers, so have an incredible array of frames to choose from .

J&K also carries a varied range of open and limited edition prints as well as originals and handmade gift cards.

Free Car Park Opposite Next To Waitrose

www.jkgallery.co.uk 5% Discount on framing when you mention this advertisement.

Studio Open Days Saturday 7th until Sunday 15th November Saturdays 21st and 28th November Saturdays 5th, 12th and 19th December Noon until 5pm each day etchings, watercolours, posters, books and cards Up The Garden Studio, Green Lane, Boughton Monchelsea, ME 17 4LF We are open by appointment throughout the year

33 Croft Road Crowborough

please call 01622 743938 www.grahamclarke.co.uk

info@grahamclarke.co.uk

01892 610770 NOVEMBER 2 0 1 5

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ADVERTORIAL

For our 20th Christmas Exhibition the Fairfax will be alive with over 100 paintings and sculpture over both floors. As always for our Christmas Exhibition if buying an artwork as a gift, we offer the recipient the opportunity to change to an alternative item during January, if they are less than delighted. We hope you have an opportunity to visit the exhibition which includes work by artists new to the Fairfax.

ON THIS PAGE ‘Autumn Light’ Oil & Gold Leaf on Canvas 35 x 45cm ‘Fulham Palace Hall’ Oil and collage 85 x 104 cm David Atkins @sunset on the Ashdown Oil on Panel 36 x 51cm Jack Frame ‘Acid etched Blossom’ Oil on Gold Leaf 80 x 80cm

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

2

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ADVERTORIAL

The Fairfax Gallery was founded in 1995 on the elegant Lower Walk of the Pantiles. Whilst the Fairfax Gallery gallery has another gallery in Burnham Market as well as regularly exhibiting in London, New York, Singapore & Hong Kong, the original Pantiles gallery always ensures it has the latest and strongest examples on display in its spacious gallery set over 2 floors with an increasing stock in the run up to Christmas..The gallery offers services for private clients, interior designers including a home trail service to view art works in your own home or office to ensure the perfect piece.

ON THIS PAGE Jenny Pockley ‘Red Westminster’ Oil on Panel 40 x 60cm Mary Jane Ansell’A Feigned Retreat’ oil on Aluminium 41 x 41cm Mary Grant ‘Morning Fog’ Oil on Canvas 90 x 90 Dawn Benson ‘Me Too’ Bronze

Tel: 01892 525 525

www.fairfaxgallery.com

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ENCORE

PLEASE SIR, CAN I HAVE SOME MORE? One of the world’s most iconic musicals is heading to the Trinity Theatre this winter

Atkinson himself said that once Fagin had been put into his head by producer Cameron Mackintosh, it was impossible to get him out, despite turning down the role when first offered.

One of the beautiful aspects of Oliver!

O

is its ability to send you away feeling liver! – there are few who have

Lionel Bart came from an exceptionally

uplifted in spite of its dark source

been to the West End or even just

poor background and clearly found

material. Though so much of the music

Central London itself who don’t

Oliver’s plight, as well as the instinct for

does reflect the bleakness of Dickens’

know the name that’s near always

survival that drives Fagin, identifiable.

murderous tale there’s still the good

been spelt out in lights across some of

Bart had no training and lacked

amongst the bad and the hope

the biggest theatres.

professional craft, but hit after hit

underlying the despair that leaves

poured out of him as well as rich and

you feeling like life just isn’t that

years at the London Palladium (1,366

entertaining characters. They all have

bad after all.

performances), grossing £40 million at

what Bart had: heart.

The hit musical played for over three

the box office and has been performed

The characters in Oliver! will remain

Oliver Twist has always been one of Dickens’ absolute masterpieces and we

in 22 different languages. This ever-

with the audience long after the curtain

never get tired of the tale of the little boy

popular musical production is in

falls. And it’s not just the audience that

who asked for more. Our urge to see

constant demand, but what is it about

feel this bond. Hollywood star Michael

Oliver safe is heart-warming and

the loveable scamp Oliver Twist that

Caine was brought to tears when he was

reassuring. It still seems extraordinary

leaves people always asking for more?

rejected at his audition for the show in

that Lionel Bart has written such breath-

1960 – although he may now breathe a

taking music that tugs so violently at the

Lionel Bart’s classic songs will be woven

sigh of relief that he wasn’t committed

heart-strings and brilliantly brings this

somewhere into the fabric of your

to such a long run.

classic story to life.

If you’re middle-aged or beyond,

existence; whether you’ve been asking

The show has always attracted the

“Where is love?” or cheering “Food

crème de la crème of performers. Artists

Glorious Food” over that scrumptious

who have appeared as Fagin include

Oliver! will be at Trinity Theatre from

Christmas dinner. However you

Russ Abbott, Jim Dale, Roy Hudd, Barry

Thursday 10 December to Sunday 3

know the tunes, it’s clear that Bart’s

Humphries, Robert Lindsay, Ron Moody,

January. Please visit www.

influence has not disappeared

Jonathan Pryce, Rowan Atkinson, Omid

trinitytheatre.net or call 01892 678 678

since his death in 1999.

Djalili and Griff Rhys Jones. Rowan

for performance times and prices.

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L U X U R Y T R AV E L

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

AN AFRICAN ADVENTURE

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he unmistakable sound of a pod of hippos, yards away, serenading you as you drift off to sleep in the middle of the bush reminds you that you’re not at home anymore. Each of your senses feels like it’s being bombarded in Africa; your eyes and ears become overloaded with the sights and sounds that must have seemed so alien to Europeans just a hundred or so years ago, but which are now within easy reach.

Ask most people to define an African holiday and they will immediately think about a safari, and with good reason. A safari provides the essence of this fascinating continent, but it is far from being the only attraction.

Cape Town is, for many, their first introduction to sub-Saharan Africa.

Regularly voted one of the most beautiful cities in the world (with Sydney, Vancouver and San Francisco), Cape Town has so much to offer.

Highlights include the iconic Table Mountain, the Cape of Good Hope, Robben Island, Kirstenbosch National Gardens, the penguins at Boulders Beach, stunning coastal scenery and the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.

An hour’s drive from the city lies a triangle of towns (Franschhoek, Stellenbosch and Paarl) which form the heart of the Cape Winelands. It is here where stunning scenery meets fine dining and fine wines, where you will find a real taste of Africa.

Add whale

watching (between August and November) in Hermanus, the southern spring flowers of the Western Cape and the beaches dotted along the coast, all within a couple of hours drive of Cape Town, and you have a perfect fly-drive itinerary and a holiday to remember.

But South Africa has more; much more.

So much more, in fact, that we have clients who have visited over 40 times!

Historical tours, luxury train journeys, golf, cruising, township tours, walking and, of course, some of the best game viewing on the planet.

The most famous game viewing area in South Africa, possibly the world, is the Kruger National Park. Located in the north east of the country, this is home to the ‘big five’ (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard and buffalo) together with a plethora of other animal and bird

species. Worth visiting any time of year, but best in the cooler and drier season from April to November. There are also excellent safari alternatives in the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu Natal and Madikwe.

Beyond South Africa there is an abundance of destinations to explore, each with their own unique reasons for visiting.

Namibia is a country of vast landscapes and huge skies, giant sand dunes and deep canyons. A country which definitely requires a thesaurus when trying to describe it. Probably its most famous attraction are the sand dunes of Sossusvlei, reaching heights over 1,000 feet, making them some of the biggest in the world. Fish River Canyon, in the far south of Namibia, is the second largest canyon in the world, after the Grand

“Let him speak who has seen with his eyes” – AFRICAN PROVERB

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Canyon in America.

Game viewing is concentrated in the Etosha National Park, a massive expanse of salt pan and semi-arid desert, located in the north of the country. To really do Namibia justice you should consider a two or three week holiday at least, given the vast distances you’ll be covering, or you could choose a flying safari, taking a light aircraft between destinations.

Seeing the sand dunes, Skeleton Coast and Etosha National Park from the air is a truly breathtaking experience.

Botswana is one of the last untouched areas of Africa, boasting some of the finest game viewing on the continent.

The jewel in its crown is the seasonally flooded Okavango Delta, a wetland within a desert, a place where you can view game from a mokoro, a dugout canoe, propelled rather like a punt.

Zimbabwe and Zambia are often spoken of in the same breath, perhaps because they both begin with the letter ‘Z’, but more likely because they share Africa’s only Natural Wonder of the World at their border: Victoria Falls. A curtain of water, one mile wide, plunging 300 feet into the gorge below is a genuinely unforgettable sight. One of the joys of the Falls is that the area has been left relatively untouched and you can wander

cobbled pathways through the rainforest to the edge of the great chasm.

Game viewing in both countries is also excellent. Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park is just three hours from the Falls.

Zambia, meanwhile, includes South Luangwa National Park, it is here where walking safaris were pioneered and it is still hailed by aficionados as the best on-foot wildlife experience in Africa.

Moving further north to East Africa you get an entirely different aspect and completely different feel to the southern areas, much like in the UK. Here you will find world famous safari areas such as the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya. The region is also the place to

L U X U R Y T R AV E L

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go to see gorillas and chimpanzees, with Rwanda and Uganda being home to these fascinating relatives of ours.

Another benefit of a holiday in East Africa is that you can easily add a beach stay after your safari. The beautiful Kenyan coast and Tanzania’s very own exotic spice island, Zanzibar, are both within easy flying distance of the main game areas.

Add the history of Ethiopia, the beaches of Mozambique, the ‘warm heart’ of Malawi and the ancient forests and lemurs of Madagascar and you have a myriad of holiday ideas which offers everything a traveller could wish for. Somewhere you can travel to again and again and each time experience something entirely new.

Africa captures the heart like no other continent. There is a tangible sense of being somewhere special, an almost primal feel that stirs something within the soul. From Ethiopia to Cape Town, via the Masai Mara, Zanzibar, Victoria Falls, the Okavango Delta and every wonderful thing in between. Travelling to Africa is like coming home.

Book your African Pride experience through Sunways by 31st Dec 2015 to become a VIP Sunways Traveller, with exclusive access to a UK No.1 Airport Lounge and six bottles of South African wine delivered to your door.

Sunways Leisure Travel Station Road, Longfield, Kent, DA3 7QD 01474 704 186 enquiries@sunways.co.uk

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"

SUNWAYS LEISURE

TRAVEL

SINCE 1973

CREATING EXCEPTIONAL JOURNEYS At Sunways Travel we've been arranging holidays since 1973, and we know what we're talking about. That's why we work with African Pride, an award-winning tour operator.

African Pride specialise in tailor-made holidays to the fascinating continent of Africa, and they have inside knowledge to many of its glorious countries, like Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique and South Africa. Immerse yourself in an expectional journey with peace of mind that Sunways has delivered the finest service in the travel business.

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MERRY MARKETS

If you’re looking for a winter break with a bit of sparkle, why not consider a trip to one of these traditional Christmas markets?

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here are few things better than getting into the festive spirit, wrapping up warm and sipping on mulled wine, but perhaps the best way to enjoy all three is at one of the fantastic Christmas markets, held in hundreds of locations across the world.

The Christmas market is thought to have originated in Germany and dates back to the late Middle Ages and, along with Christmas trees they are among Germany’s oldest and most famous traditions.

Although there are thousands of incredible markets to be experienced

in Germany alone, November and December also sees these festive offerings open across Europe, America and even on our home turf.

If you’re planning a trip this winter, we’ve compiled a list of the best locations to visit to experience the magic of a Christmas market.

fBATH

Stay a little closer to home and visit the spa town of Bath this winter.

Each year the city centre is transformed into a magical Christmas shopper’s paradise, as over 170 chalets packed full of gorgeous Christmas gifts line the streets surrounding the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey. The market has a distinctively British feel, and over 80% of the stallholders are local businesses. Stroll the streets and enjoy a mulled wine, mince pie and the sounds of carols as you pick up some unique handcrafted items.

From November 26 to December 13 www.bathchristmasmarket.co.uk

fBERLIN

If it’s the wow factor you’re after, head to Berlin, Germany’s capital city and the Christmas market capital. This year the city boasts 60 markets, selling everything from food and drink to handmade crafts. The largest Christmas market takes place in the Spandau Old Town and boasts 250 stands during the week and 400 at weekends, with entertainment on the stage and a Christmas crib with live animals. For something spectacular, head to the Charlottenburg Castle Christmas Market, where, for 35 days the castle and its park are illuminated and 150 stalls line the grounds and building, selling arts, crafts and traditional food.

From November 23 to December 31 www.visitberlin.de

fINNSBRUCK

A stunning mountain backdrop makes Austria’s Innsbruck Christmas market a must-visit, for the beautiful scenery as much as the abundance of stalls. Six individual markets take place in the town, from the traditional Christkindlmarkt in the Old Town with its ornaments, candles and Christmas pastries, to the Innsbruck Marktplatz by the river with storytellers, animals at the petting zoo and a merry-go-round.

You’ll also want to see the impressive Christmas tree, which is this year adorned with 170,000 sparkling Swarovski crystals.

From November 15 to January 6 (some markets open later or close earlier) www.christkindlmarkt.cc

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THE BEST OF THE REST

It’s earned the title of ‘best Christmas market’ two years running, and has been going since 1570, so if it’s an authentic market experience you’re after, head to Strasbourg in France.

Situated in the Alsace region, this market consists of 300 chalets across 11 sites in the city and among the delights for sale you’ll find arts and crafts, food and typical Alsatian Christmas decorations. As well as marvelling at the 30ft high tree, you can also enjoy a spot of ice skating on the 300m2 rink, situated in place Dauphine, at the entrance to the Rivetoile centre.

From November 27 to December 31 www.noel.strasbourg.eu

Treat yourself with one of these festive deals IMAGES: NEWMARKET HOLIDAYS

fSTRASBOURG

MUNICH Departs between: November and December 2015 Duration: 4 days Price from: £349pp Visit the Christmas markets of Munich, and discover the festive fun of the Christmas season as celebrated in the Bavarian capital. When the city’s Christmas markets – the most famous being found on the central square, Marienplatz – open their stalls, Munich really does become a fairytale winter wonderland.

VIENNA Departs between: November and December 2015 Duration: 4 days Price from: £389pp Few festive markets enjoy a grander or more romantic setting than those held in the elegant Austrian capital, where the magic of Advent sparkles against a backdrop of baroque palaces, shopping arcades, churches and museums.

This marvellous value break includes accommodation in a fine, four-star hotel.

fPRAGUE

The Czech capital comes alive with the spirit of Christmas, as Prague hosts an impressive festive celebration. In the Old Town Square you’ll find the animal stable, where children can stroke sheep, goats and a donkey and the impressive Christmas tree which is shipped in from from the Krkonose mountains in the north of the Czech Republic. As well as plenty to see and buy, the food stalls in Prague will tempt you to try an array of mouth-watering delicacies. From the barbecued sausages (klobása) to the hot sugary pastries, you definitely won’t go hungry while you’re enjoying the festive market.

From November 28 to January 1 www.pragueexperience.com

fSTOCKHOLM

Dating back to 1915, Stockholm’s Christmas market has drawn crowds of people looking to the Old Town area of the city for many years.

Famed for its Swedish delicacies, visitors can indulge in glögg (mulled wine), saffron buns, smoked sausages and even reindeer and elk meat. Shop for decorations in Stortorget Square and find over 40 stalls selling handmade gifts. This market is more intimate than some of its larger European counterparts, but maintains a lovely ambience and is ideal for families looking for a festive experience.

From November 21 to December 23 www.visitstockholm.com

KRAKOW Departs between: November and December 2015 Duration: 4 days Price from: £349pp (From price based on 28th November 2015 departure from London Gatwick) Join us in the ancient royal capital of Poland, where colourful Christmas markets, steeped in tradition, are held against the spectacular backdrop of one of the few European cities to have survived the centuries unscathed.

Discover the city’s great history, enjoy Krakow by night, and soak up the festive atmosphere on this unmissable seasonal break.

All available from www.newmarketholidays.co.uk

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BANG & OLUFSEN

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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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Make a calculated decision this winter.

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Whilst your summer wheels and tyres are off the road, they can be securely stored for you by

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MOTORING MATTERS

OUR ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM THE MOTORING SCENE

ELECTRIC YOUTH

PA PHOTO/ERIC RISBERG

PA PHOTO/HANDOUT

More than eight in 10 (81%) 14 year olds believe the first car they buy will be electric, a survey has found. Researchers polled 800 teenagers aged 14 to 17 and found that the popularity of greener-fuelled cars increased as the interviewees became younger. 88% of the young people surveyed also felt that more motorists – regardless of their age – should be driving an electric car. The study was commissioned by Go Ultra Low, a government and industry-backed campaign to increase sales of ultra-low emissions vehicles.

OH DEER

DRONING ON

UNDER THE HAMMER

HANDS ON

Motorists in Kent and Sussex have been asked to drive carefully in rural areas where there may be deer. GEM Motoring Assist, which has run a road safety charity for over 30 years, said that deer were more active as they entered the mating season. Chief executive David Williams says, “periods of highest deer activity tend to occur at dawn and dusk, coinciding with the morning and evening rush hour, increasing collision risks in areas where deer are common.” Deer collisions cost over £17 million in car damage every year, with over 75,000 deer involved – 10,000 of which die instantly.

Swiss high-tech concept car makers Rinspeed have developed a sports car that drives itself and records the journey by an accompanying drone in the same colour as the car. The Etos, a two-seater which features a drone helipad on the back, has an autopilot function that the company says is “capable of learning”, and a feature that allows the steering wheel to fold into the dashboard and be replaced by a widescreen so that passengers can be entertained on their journey.

A prototype model will be displayed at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas next January.

A classic Morris Minor was sold for just the second time in nearly six decades after being auctioned off by British Car Auctions for £2,850.

The 1957 two-door model, last sold by BCA in 1980 for just £680, has a mileage of 48,000, comes with a large collection of original spare parts and is in good working condition – although the company said it could do with some restoration.

BCA Blackbushe centre manager James Gibson described the car as “iconic car with a welldocumented history”.

A survey has found that over 70% of British drivers have no intention of switching to a driverless car in the future. Of these, 45% were uncomfortable with handing over driving control and 36% said they enjoyed driving too much. Others expressed concerns about hacking and vehicle cost.

The survey was run by insurer Adrian Flux, and will come as a disappointment to companies pioneering the technology, including Google, Mercedes and Toyota. General manager at Flux, Gerry Bucke, says “the biggest stumbling block to this new technology, however good it may be, could well be that people simply don’t want it.”

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NOT STIRRED

SHAKEN Matt Joy gets the real 007 experience in the new Aston Martin DB9 GT

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here’s a great number of

testament to just how pretty it was in

new things on the

the first place. The subtle

horizon for Aston Martin;

enhancements of this GT version are

a new Bond film, a new

just that; welcome, but just fresh

generation of cars and a new

icing on a delicious cake. The black-

partnership with AMG, all of which

finished front splitter and rear

are brimming with promise for the

diffuser are nice touches and the new

British manufacturer. These things

wheels are a delight.

are still to come however, and in

Those looks are still guaranteed to

the meantime, the car that began

turn heads, which is part of the

the Aston Martin rivalry has

reason it has such a fantastic image.

been refreshed.

British, stylish and relatively discreet

This GT version is the final hurrah

– just like a certain secret agent.

for the DB9, the V12 grand tourer that has best encapsulated the

SPACE AND PRACTICALITY

notion of a modern Aston Martin in

The DB9 is better than it used to be in

the 21st Century. The GT receives

this respect, although it’s best suited

unique alloy wheels, black detailing

to two adults with the possible

to the front and rear aerodynamic

occasional inclusion of a pair of small

elements, black brake callipers and

children. It’s a grand tourer in the

detail changes to the head and tail

traditional sense, so there’s an

lights. The long-serving 6.0-litre

intimate cabin for the two up front and

engine gets a power boost too.

155 litres of space for your weekend luggage in the boot, and use the rear

LOOKS AND IMAGE

seats for odds and ends. The latest

Given its age it is remarkable how

infotainment upgrade is a welcome

little the DB9’s shape has changed

addition too, with better responses and

over the last decade, but that is a

more features than before.

IF THIS CAR WAS... a sculpture mounted on a plinth in Trafalgar Square, it would get more salutes than Nelson.

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FACTS

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ASTON MARTIN DB9 GT, £140,000 Engine: 6.0-litre unit producing 540bhp and 457lb/ft of torque Transmission: Six-speed automatic driving the rear wheels Performance: Top speed 183mph, 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds Economy: 19.8 mpg combined Emissions: 333g/km of CO2

BEHIND THE WHEEL The DB9 GT isn’t just a high performance grand tourer, it is a car that delivers a genuine sense of occasion. Sliding behind the wheel into the beautifully finished cabin makes you feel special; firing up the V12 engine confirms it.

Driven sensibly, the DB9 GT is low effort and comfortable. The ride is well judged, keeping everything level and stable but filtering out road pimples, while the automatic gearbox marshals the huge WHO WOULD BUY ONE?

amount of torque on offer. Squeeze the

VALUE FOR MONEY

accelerator gently and there’s a seemingly

The question of value operates in reverse

James Bond would buy one if he

infinite amount of urge available, all

when discussing a luxury car; it’s not so

didn’t get an Aston in his company

delivered without any fuss.

much whether the car is worth the

car scheme, but for us mortals at least,

money, but how often does the car

the DB9 should either be in your

ready to play. It’s a relatively big car

remind you how much it is worth? In the

underground garage or a poster

but there’s three damper settings and

case of the DB9 GT, that is on a regular

on your bedroom wall. It’s become

three for the stability control too, and

basis. The quality of the materials is

an Aston Martin icon in its

should you be feeling brave and talented,

superb; flawless stitching in the

own lifetime, and while there

it will play the hooligan. As fast (if not

beautiful leather, glinting chrome and

is a new car on the horizon,

faster) than you could possibly need in

carpet you want to dig bare feet into.

it has some spectacularly large

the UK and beyond, it is a car that

The short of it is you will never feel

shoes to fill. There will be faint

delights in so many ways.

short-changed for your £140,000.

tears when it finally moves on.

Really press on and the DB9 GT is

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Cooper Tunbridge Wells

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BMWX5 xDRIVE30d M SPORT. SINCE ITS LAUNCH THE BMW X5 HAS BEEN SETTING MILESTONES IN ITS CLASS -A CLASS OF WHICH IT WAS THE FOUNDING MEMBER.

BMW Select representative finance example: BMW X5 xDrive30d M Sport with optional metallic paint.

Terms of agreement 4 7 monthly payments of On the road cash price* Customer deposit Dealer deposit contribution

48 months

Amount of credit

£39,748.40

£559.00

Option to purchase fee**

£1.00

£49,365.00

Optional final payment**

£20,889.28

Total amount payable

£56,779.88

Rate of interest

6.2% Fixed

£7,649.00 £967.60

BMW FS Deposit Contribution

£1,000.00

Total deposit

£9,616.60

Representative 6.2% APR

The third generation X5 has again surpassed its own benchmarks - as a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) that delivers outstanding luxury and unparalleled comfort in every regard and never fails to exceed expectations.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, OR TO ARRANGE A TEST DRIVE'\ CONTACT YOUR NEAREST COOPER CENTRE TODAY. Cooper Tunbridge Wells Longfield Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3UE 01892 629 503 www.coopertunbridgewellsbmw.co.uk

BMW EFFICIENTDYNAMICS. L£SS EMISSIONS. MORE DRMNG Pl.£ASURE.

Fuel economy figures for the BMW X5: Extra Urban 36.2 - 54. 3 mpg. Urban 21. 7 - 43.5 mpg. Combined 29.1 - 50.4 mpg.

CQ 2 emissions 226- 149g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions .

Cooper Tunbridge Wells is a credit broker and not a lender.

Finance example is for a BMW Select agreement for a BMW X5 xDrive30d M Sport with optional metallic paint, with a contract mileage of 40,000 miles and excess mileage charge of 10.57p per mile. Applies to new vehicles ordered between 1 October and 31 December 2015 and registered by 30 March 2016 (subject to availability). Retail customers only. *On the road cash price is based on manufacturer's recommended retail price and includes 3 year BMW Retailer Warranty, BMW Emergency Service, 12 months' road fund licence, vehicle first registration fee, delivery, number plates and VAT. **Optional final payment and option to purchase fee not payable if you opt to return the vehicle at the end of the agreement (vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges may be payable). Finance available subject to credit acceptance to UK residents aged 18 or over. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Terms and conditions apply. Offer may be varied, withdrawn or extended at any time. 'BMW Select' is a form of hire-purchase agreement provided by BMW Financial Services (GB) Limited, Summit ON E, Summit Avenue, Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 OFB. You will have a 14 day statutory right to withdraw from the agreement. Inchcape Retail trading as Cooper Tunbridge Wells commonly introduce customers to BMW Financial Services, for which we may receive payment if you enter into an agreement with them . T his introduction does not amount to independent financial advice. "Test drive subject to applicant status and availability.

BMW EfficientDynamics reduces BMW emissions without compromising performance developments and is standard across the model range.

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LIFE & STYLE

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

Brora Brora is one of Britain’s best-loved and most successful modern cashmere brands. Since its beginning in 1993, Brora has steadily grown into a fully-fledged fashion label with its own distinctive viewpoint – wearable, subtle, but highly individual and mainly British made. Scottish cashmere is still at Brora’s heart, but every season the founder, sole owner and creative director, Victoria Stapleton, creates an ever-growing range of clothing to build a complete wardrobe using only the finest fabrics, such as tweed, silk and wool.

Brora remains true to its quirky, slightly vintage inspired self, while moving with the turn of fashion’s wheel each season.

Energise Your Home LIGHTING IS EVERYTHING! At this time of year, living space at home and work can feel a little gloomy and unwelcoming. Using mirrors in dark corners to amplify light and colour can literally double the impact. Candles, lamps and warm colours all help to create a welcoming ambience and intimate feel, energy we crave in colder weather. If you have a challenging house or office that doesn’t feel good whatever you do, contact Charlotte Haynes, a local specialist property consultant who can help you optimise your living space so you feel more at home or focused at work.

07971 409 436 www.energiseyourhome.com

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Generating Interest Ltd Help from the Government!

All new businesses need a helping hand, but seldom is the Government as helpful as it has been to Generating Interest Ltd. Generating Interest Ltd provides specialist advice and supplies and installs generators, particularly those that cut in automatically when there is a power cut, and switch off when the mains power returns.

So, how has the Government helped?

By closing down power stations and not building others. In Britain, there’s a real power crisis with no end in sight. In October 2014, The Grid published a graph showing a 4.1% surplus of peak supply over peak demand. In the same month, the power station called Didcot B burned down. On May 21 this year, Didcot C was shut down, not because it wasn’t working well, but to comply with emissions

regulations. By March 2016, four more power stations will have been closed for the same reasons.

There are various contingency plans: there is talk of closed power stations being recomissioned to fill the gap, but how will they be compliant when they were shut down for noncompliance? The Grid has a large number of big diesel generators ready to help, but these cannot come close to providing the amount of power required.

The Telegraph has run three articles with stark headlines, for example: “Avoiding blackouts ‘will cost households billions in extra bills.’” The unacceptable fact is that this power gap will be with us for some years – which is how the Government has provided help to Generating Interest Ltd!

www.generatingintrest.co.uk

EASTWELL MANOR HOTEL AND SPA Throughout November and December, Eastwell Manor Hotel and Spa near Ashford, Kent is celebrating 20 years of ownership by the Parrett family with ‘Twenty Twenties’: 20 special offers based on the 20 theme. The Twenty Twenties include an exciting and varied mix of afternoon tea; special lunches in the pavilion and the manor restaurant; golf; gym membership; vouchers to spend at the hotel; and discounted rates and loyalty cards.

Palulo LIMITED EDITION GIFTS AND HOMEWARE

breakfast for two people, including a

We all like to have something different – exclusive even – which is why Palulo has created

THE HIDE OUT With the one year milestone passed, celebrated in style with a live band, we are now so excited to be heading into our second Christmas. We are open throughout the festive period and

check out our cosy upstairs bar and try an

Bought by Mr Turrloo Parrett in business has gone from strength to

fine materials and made to the

strength and now has four members of

highest standard, Palulo’s

the Parrett family on the board. During

designs offer something for

his ownership, Mr Parrett has overseen

everyone. Keep loose change in

the hotel’s expansion from 23 en-suite

a cart money box; add decorative style with a vintage bear; or keep newspapers/ magazines tidy in a wooden news bin. There is a range of on now to help you stretch your

days getting shorter, it’s a great time to

extensive spa facilities.

and homeware. Crafted from

well as being perfect for intimate group

With the weather getting colder and the

spa treatment each and full use of the

a range of limited edition gifts

reader offers and discount prices

your party, call us or visit our website.

with a top prize of dinner and bed and

November 1995, the family-run

available for private hire and parties, as lunches. For more information or to book

During November, all guests will be eligible to enter a celebration raffle,

budget further. To see Palulo’s full collections and special offers, visit their online store at www.palulo.co.uk

bedrooms to 62 en-suite bedrooms, increased the private dining rooms and function suites to seven and built a luxury spa and beauty salon, a nine-hole golf course and two 20-metre pools. Rated by the AA as a four-red star, two-Rosette Inspector’s Choice hotel, Eastwell Manor is also a proud member of the Pride of Britain Consortium and Condé Nast Johannsen.

Eastwell Manor’s reputation for

amazing cocktail off our extensive list. It’s

running special events throughout the

also the perfect time to start thinking

year is a further source of pride: these

about New Year’s Eve; we still have limited

include Narropera, open-air theatre and

availability, so why not book your party

concerts, gala evenings, commemorative

with us and see it in style?

dinners and fine dining events.

01892 315 297

Further information is available on the

www.thehideout.kitchen

website www.eastwellmanor.co.uk

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

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

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

• 07725 812356 • www.ftacarpentry.co.uk Under New Management

TVR (Wadhurst) Ltd

FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS ...good, friendly advice, you could only find on your high street!

Domestic Electrical Sales

Installation & Repairs

Aerial & Satellite Installers

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.

Audio & Radio

34 Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2PT

5 Central Parade, Wadhurst TN5 6AL 01892 783 042

www.vstjewellery.co.uk

01892 526119

info@jewellery.co.uk

LOCAL LOCKSMITH NO CALL-OUT FEE!

24HR SERVICES

uPVC / DOUBLE GLAZING / PATIO DOORS & WINDOW LOCK REPAIRS. JUST MOVED IN? WHO HAS A KEY? COMPLETE LOCK CHANGE SERVICE. LOCK-OUTS / LOST KEYS / BROKEN LOCKS. EMERGENCY LOCK & DOOR OPENING. DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL WORK. ALL TYPES OF LOCKS / HARDWARE SUPPLIED & FITTED.

Call Paul on:

07506 451405 or 01892 440067

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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

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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

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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

A Williams

LANDSCAPING

Bathroom Design & Installations • Design • Over 10 yrs Experience • Install

01797 260451 07831 868848 GARDENEYE.CO.UK

Give Ashley a call - 07727 049241

• Supply • Fully insured • No Job Too Small

a.williams951@btinternet.com

LAWNCULTURE PLUMBER -YOU NEVER KNOW WHEN YOU MIGHT NEED ONE! All general plumbing, with no call out fees!!

• Blocked toilet, drains, ect

• No job too big or small

• Heating problems

• All work guarenteed

t: 01892 672299 m: 07818 461067 e: chris@ansellplumbing.com www.ansellplumbing.com

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

Learn a trade or imrove your skills with the CITB CSkills Award for wall and floor tiling training courses with our qualified professional tutors.

Bartlett Tree Experts

Whether you want an introduction to the basics, to develop your existing skills or a full intensive course giving you the skills and confidence to tackle any tiling project, we offer one, two and four week courses. PLUS the opportunity to become a registered Devi under the heating installer.

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

Contact us for more details

Tel/Fax 01580 761191

www.tenterdentiling.com

TENTERDEN TILING TRAINING SCHOOL

Showroom at Leigh Green Industrial Estate Appledore Road Tenterden TN30 7DE

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STYLE HOUSE SHUTT :: RS We fit the highest quality, bespoke, hand-crafted plantation shutters.

Offering you ultimate style, choice and quality in your home.

Contact us for your free survey.

t 01732521287 m 07717133736 e hello@stylehouseshutters.co.uk www.stylehouseshutters.co.uk

00

PACKERS: MOVERS: STORERS: SHIPPERS

Franklin's Removals & Storage

1 Beulah Villas, Luxford Lane, Crowborough, East Sussex TN6 2PJ 01892 661089 I info@franklinsremovalsandstorage.com www.franklinsremovalsandstorae:e.com

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COOL COPPER Give your home a rose gold glow this autumn PAGE 189

BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL

AND

so

66

PAGES OF INTERIOR & GARDENS INSPIRATION

Live colourfully with these brightening tips PAGE 182

PENSHURST PLACE

Discover how this manor stays so magnificent PAGE 196

BEAUTIFUL WEALDEN HOMES…OUTDOOR ACCESSORIES…THE POWER OF ONLINE GARDENING F E B R UA RY 2 0 1 5

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ROUNDEL

DESIGN

SOME OF US ARE PLANNING EARLY, ARE YOU? KITCHENS• BEDROOMS• HOME OFFICES FLISHINGHURST ORCHARD, CHALK LANE, CRANBROOK TNl7 2QB DO CALL 01580 712 666

WWW. RO UN DE LDES I G N .CO.UK

(PAlULQ ,.) Exclusive Gifts & Homeware

SBI ~@8=#J{RJ Shutters

Vintage Bear

I 00% Solar - I 00% Independent

Decorative Accessories Choose from six designs.

Please note these are decorative accessories NOT toys.

Large Sewi ng/Uti Iity Storage Box

Treasure & Trinket Boxes

No need for power supply connection, drilling through walls, laying cables in rooms.

German manufactured. 7 Year warranty!

L---

Shop Palulo's full collection of Limited Edition Gifts now at palulo.co.uk

Wide selection of original homeware designs available at palulo.co.uk

Special Reader Offers &Discounts on NOW! © Palulo2015 browse & shop at palulo.co.uk 180

Call today for a free quote 0800 0742 721 www.sbiproducts.co.uk

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INTERIORS

BE BOLD IN THE BEDROOM “Bedrooms are not the easiest rooms to get right,” says Ahern. “I’ve struggled with mine, but now it’s my sanctuary.”

PA PHOTO/GRAHAM ATKINS-HUGHES/QUADRILLE

TOP TIPS: � For a calm, serene bedroom, use a colour palette that acts as a backdrop, rather than a focal point. You can find the most calming combos with dark inky hues, and even colour-studded palettes can soothe. � A good place to start your colour scheme is the bed, because it takes up the largest amount of space. I’ve gone for dark linen, embellished with throws, or try elevating white linen by piling on pillows and mixing patterns. � Make your own headboard from MDF and cover it in a luxe velvet. � Rugs anchor rooms, set the tone and add instant glamour, plus – toes touching a beautiful, fluffy rug in the morning is a good thing. Pattern will add instant pizzazz here.

If you do have plain carpets, just skim the odd rug over them – the Americans do it all the time and it looks amazing. � When selecting decorative lighting, choose a tantalising base (mine are either bronze or flocked) – you need some small, luxurious details that add instant magic to a bedroom. � Try using occasional tables as a bedside table, as they’re higher and lend a space that unexpected twist of grandeur.

A TOUCH OF COLOUR From splashes of paint to vibrant cushions, discover how you can transform a room with some simple but lively touches…

“Colour is clever,” says designer, author and blogger Abigail Ahern. “Get it right and it lifts your spirits, get it wrong and it will make you run for the hills!

“It’s been my obsession for as far back as I can remember.

I grew up in a colourful home. My mother, an artist, would choose shades for our walls in the same way that she would select colours for her paintings: instinctively, from feeling and observation.”

But it was when Ahern was living her now-husband, Graham Scott, in a rented property in America, that she really used colour to change a space – dabbling with patterns and

182

textures to bring to life a home they weren’t allowed to paint.

For many of us though, it can sometimes feel like you need to be brave to embrace colour, and what if you feel differently about it in a few months’ time?

“The biggest tip I can give you when selecting a palette, is to nail the mood or atmosphere you want to create first. Do that, and figuring out what colour to go for gets so much easier,” advises Ahern.

Fancy a change? Feel inspired and follow these top tips and advice from the designer’s new book – Colour – for making specific spaces in your home bright and beautiful.

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INTERIORS

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MAKE AN ENTRANCE Hallways tend to be one of the most neglected spaces in our homes.

“When I come home at night after an exhausting day, I want to walk through the door and be enveloped by a feeling of squishy contentment,” says Ahern. “And the only way you achieve that is to create a strong first impression.”

TOP TIPS: � Turn your entryway into a space filled with colour, lamps, books, flowers and nik-naks – all the stuff that will transport you to a magical, relaxed place. � Any sort of table, console (no matter how skinny) or storage unit works a treat for storing hats, gloves, bags, keys – all the messy stuff. Then you can go two ways: One; blend the furniture into the wall colour, or two; make it pop with something uber-punchy. � Pattern is important, too. The biggest trick here is to fool the eye away from the potential awkwardness of this space. A patterned rug skimming the floor, or a runner, up the stair treads, will give your hallway instant pizzazz (and not show the dirt). � If your hallway is small or oddly shaped, hanging artwork ‘salon style’ will elevate it to new heights. � Don’t neglect the finishing touches in hallways.

Mirrors will reflect light, both natural and artificial, and instantly double the impression of your space.

And you can soften the decor with the orange glow of a lamp or some seasonal blooms. � Decorate your hallway like it’s your living room and you’ll find you want to linger longer.

LIVE IT UP Ahern is only too aware that the modern living room is used to relax, work and contemplate in, and believes it’s important to create a multi-functional living space that feels vibrant but chilled.

TOP TIPS: � A good trick here is to restrict the colour palette.

Add a hue that gives your space a touch of unconventionality. Maybe you could paint a side table scarlet red, or treat an alcove in a vibrant

blue. These intoxicating hues turn spaces around. � Not everything has to be colourful. Neutrals and chameleon browns will give your wow pieces breathing space. � Opt for rugs with a pattern, no matter how small the motif. It will make the space feel far more interesting. � Overdose on texture (it cosies the space up), so juxtapose rough with smooth, shiny with handwoven. � Add more than one focal point, so the eye is excited and engaged wherever it looks.

COLOUR BY ABIGAIL AHERN, PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRAHAM ATKINS-HUGHES, IS PUBLISHED BY QUADRILLE, PRICED £20. AVAILABLE NOW

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Badger Bathrooms

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

of the current Euro values.

We Look forward to seeing ~ou!

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

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

Tel: oo 33 21 99 23 21

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Email: antoine@rigail.fr

26/10/2015 15:27

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COTE I

EXPAND YOUR CHOICE in Boulogne with our high range furniture!

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

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

C.AUTIC:n

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Think shutters have to be square?

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01892 575858 wwwJustshutters.co. uk for our inspirational brochure NOVEMBER 2 0 1 5

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DANCING AND PRANCING DEER - £17.50 EA(

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ONLINE 26/10/2015 09:58

GARDENS

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SWEETPEA & WILLOW

Abbigail chandelier, £650 www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

TOUCHED INTERIORS

Luxury copper coffee table, £2,850 www.touchedinteriors.co.uk

AROUND THE HOUSE FURNITURE

Indiana three drawer trunk with leather trim, £306 www.aroundthehousefurniture.co.uk

KEEP IT COPPER Adorn your home in warming autumn tones

LUKU HOME

Solid copper pendant, £130 www.lukuhome.com

LIME LACE

LEFF Amsterdam Piet Hein Eek tube wood clock, £199 www.limelace.co.uk

DAR LIGHTING

Dynamo three light bar pendant, £138 www.darlighting.co.uk

BLACK BY DESIGN LTD

SWOON EDITIONS

Orson bar stool, £99 www.swooneditions.com

EM vacuum jug, £109 www.black-by-design.co.uk

PUJI

Retro oval copper wall clock, £115 www.puji.com

MIAFLEUR

Copper wire side table, £165 www.miafleur.com

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1OO's of Worktops

I 1OOO's of Doors

door replacement I made to measure service I bedroom doors worktops I appliances I sinks and taps I drawer replacement improved storage and access solutions door refurbishment service I instant hot water taps fitted

Full interior and exterior coatings Resin coatings to garage floors All aspects of wallpapering from wide vinyl to hand-printed silk Hand finished specialist effec Spray painting

The Kitchen Doctor's bespoke service supplies and fits a comprehensive range of components to give your kitchen a new lease of life.

01689 850000 chris@thekitchendoctor.com www.thekitchendoctor.com se rving Lond on and th e So uth-E as t since 19 84

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

WOODCOCKS

Floral picture, £127.50, Dancing and prancing reindeer, £17.50, Glitter pine cones, £1.75 each www.woodcocksinteriors.co.uk Sayers Lane, Tenterden, Kent and High Street, Battle, East Sussex

NEPTUNE

Candle holders, from £22 Glass candlesticks that create a wonderful light.

The shimmering effect comes from the exceptional quality of the hand blown, twisted glass. Available in three sizes.

1 Tannery Road, Tonbridge TN9 1RF 01732 351 866

SO

NEPTUNE

Aspen cut hanging decorations, set of six £10. Perfect to hang on the tree or anywhere you think needs a little festive touch.

1 Tannery Road, Tonbridge TN9 1RF 01732 351 866

WINTER WONDERS MAKE A HOUSE A HOME THIS CHRISTMAS

GRAHAM CLARKE

‘Warm up Tunes’ limited edition etching produced entirely by hand, £275 unframed or £374 framed www.grahamclarke.co.uk To visit Graham’s studio in Boughton Monchelsea, please call 01622 743 938

RAGGED ROSE

Wash bags £15, hanger sets £12, shower hats £7.50 www.raggedrose.com sales@raggedrose.com 01622 812 897

ROUNDEL DESIGN

Roundel Design kitchens are for living in.

We design, manufacture and install cabinetry for kitchens, bedrooms and home offices in a variety of woods and finishes. Always with attention to detail, we listen and provide a first-class personal service, working alongside clients to achieve their ultimate pleasure in a working environment.

www.roundeldesign.co.uk Flishinghurst Orchard, Chalk Lane, Cranbrook TN17 2QB 01580 712 666

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A LOOK YOU WILL BE PROUD OF Based in Tunbridge Wells, Style My Home has been designing beautiful interiors for private and commercial clients since 2004. We find out how a personal approach, work from the best local craftsmen and materials sourced from specialist companies can help achieve the right look for you TELL US THE BACKGROUND OF STYLE MY HOME SMH was set up 10 years ago by Caroline Pickering as an independent interior designer. Having worked for several branded companies Caroline wanted to use her experience to offer a more diverse range of products to a wider group of clients, as well as different levels of services, from staging and styling for selling, to complete interior design packages.

HOW DOES THAT APPLY TO PRIVATE AND COMMERCIAL CLIENTS? With private clients, we aim to fulfil their vision or step out of their comfort zone. The service we offer can save time and energy searching for products and styles. We source public places like pubs and

4. Set out a schedule for works to

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realistically achieve your timescale

have influenced home

5. Research products and services you

interiors a lot. The

may require

industrial look is very

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guide you through all of these things, working

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work with architectural features in your home.

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For commercial projects, we are often driven

and cushions, lovely chenilles and velvets

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GIVE US YOUR TOP TIPS FOR CAN YOU TAILOR YOUR SERVICES

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begin to recreate or

investment that will move with you.

maximise them 3. Set yourself a budget

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR MOST

and prioritise the things you

POPULAR INTERIOR LOOKS

feel are necessary to

AND STYLES?

achieve the look you are

We have seen a huge change in many

hoping for

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ANDREW MARTIN

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Featured Designer

interiors by

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OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS

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77 Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN 1 2UY 01892 516 638 www.floorz.co.uk

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&

POTTS LTD

KITCHENS, BATHROOMS & INTERIORS

SUPERIOR SURROUNDINGS

Designer: Ada Jludson@Potts.ltd.uk

Kiln Barn Road, East Malling, Maidstone , Kent , ME19 680 Untitled-1 2

01732 848444

www.potts.ltd.uk 26/10/2015 09:59

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INTERIORS

GOOD HOUSEKEEPING We discover how the beautiful Penshurst Place maintains its charm

B

uilt in 1341, Penshurst Place was commissioned by Sir John de Pulteney, already the owner of two large town houses, who wanted a country estate where he could hunt. In 1521 it became the property of King Henry VIII, and after his death in 1547 it was left to Henry’s son, King Edward VI. In 1552 Edward gifted the property to Sir William Sidney, and so began the Sidney family’s ownership, which still stands today.

Now, as well as the private family home, where Viscount De L’Isle and his wife Isobel have lived for more than 20 years, the grand house and beautiful gardens are open for the public to explore. We speak to Alison Davies, head housekeeper at Penshurst Place about what goes in to maintaining this historic family home.

Have you worked at any similar properties in the past?

I’ve certainly worked in housekeeping before but Penshurst Place is the only heritage property I’ve ever worked in. I’ve been here now for 24 years – when I started I worked solely in the private house, whereas now my work includes looking after the public state rooms as well.

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

We’ll be polishing the panelling throughout the house to start with, which all keen visitors will know, there’s an awful lot of! We do our general dusting every day, but some rooms and furniture do require a further deep clean around this time of year. The plates in the solar room especially need a lot of attention as the cold can easily make them fragile and brittle, so we put a lot of care into that room.

How have you been preparing for the autumn/winter season?

The later seasons really do absorb into the house – its thick stone walls aren’t the best insulators, and so we like to get started as soon as we close to the public. This means we get the most amount of time to start and finish our work, and fingers crossed, means it won’t be too cold by the time we finish! Right now, we’re just evaluating what work needs to be done more urgently so we can tackle that first.

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

The unique thing about Penshurst Place is its combination of both a private family home, and beautiful public staterooms. Our only goal really is to keep both these elements as in keeping as we can. The private house needs to continue to be homely for the family, and the staterooms must reflect the history and heritage of the Sidneys, and their history.

What is the biggest challenge at Penshurst?

We’re quite a small team, and so with the end of the season looming it can seem like quite a daunting task to get it all done, whilst we keep up our work in the private house. But we’re a dedicated few, the work doesn’t ever pile up too much, and you really can’t replace the satisfaction of seeing some of our most beautiful rooms looking their best!

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

The entireties of the staterooms really are beautiful, and I never tire of walking through them. Some of the furniture is particularly old and so you can easily end up feeling attached to it, because you see it so often.

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INTERIORS

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

We always welcome visitors to learn as much as the history of the house as they can.

Our guides are overwhelmingly knowledgeable about the house and all who have lived here and so I would say visitors next year should just anticipate leaving with a far greater knowledge of Penshurst Place, and the Sidney family, than when they arrived!

What is the most commonly asked question from visitors?

We’re often asked just how many staff it takes to look after a building so large and people are usually surprised to hear there are only three of us! But as I said, we’re a dedicated team and seeing the end result makes all of the hard work more than worth it.

What are your day to day tasks?

Cleaning through all of the staterooms, dusting the surfaces, dusting the chandeliers, setting up for private

SO

events. Just generally ensuring it looks its best, every day.

Are there any original features, or anything in keeping with the heritage?

Parts of the house were built in different time periods, and so I’d recommend keeping a look out for the change in architectural style and decoration. It’s a wonderful insight into our decorative history.

Do you have a favourite room?

I’d have to say The Queen Elizabeth room. It contains furniture from the original Leicester House, which was built in 1636 on the site of what is now London’s Leicester Square.

Leicester House was twice the size of Penshurst but was eventually knocked down to make way for new developments.

Bringing the furniture back I feel is a fantastic way of keeping the memory of Leicester House alive, as imagery of it is limited, we also have a square named after it in the village which is home to some beautiful listed cottages.

www.penshurstplace.com NOVEMBER

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2015

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THE LETTINGS & MANAGEMENT SPECIALISTS

26/10/2015 10:00

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

SECURITY

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HOME FRONT

When it comes to moving house, space should always be a consideration, whether that’s rooms to accommodate everyone in the family, land outside to build on or enjoy the landscape from, outbuildings for vehicles or animals, or just storage space to keep your everyday items safe and organised.

Luckily, if it’s plenty of space you’re after, then this month’s properties

have an abundance of it – from annexes to acres of land, you’ll have the luxury of lots of extra room, whether it’s enjoying the gym facilities that some of these beautiful Wealden homes include, or entertaining in your spacious new kitchen. And, for those with a creative vision, some even come with planning permission to extend or create new buildings, so you can truly make your new home your dream home.

SEVENOAKS

HOLTYE

CRANBROOK

BRENCHLEY

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

Grand and spacious

Idyllic country house

Beautiful oast and barn

Charming chocolate-box

Large and immaculate

rural property with

with landscaped gardens

conversion with Juliet

cottage with permission

family home with

original rustic features

Price: Offers in

balcony and modern luxuries

for expansion

plenty of space

Price: £2,550,000

excess of £1,500,000

Price: £1,350,000

Price: £695,000

Price: £1,595,000

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

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DIVINE EQUINE Idyllic country house with surrounding acres in Holtye LOCATED IN A highly desirable position down a quiet

Upstairs, both the master and guest bedrooms boast en

country lane and surrounded by landscaped gardens of

suite bathrooms, with roll topped baths and fitted

1.6 acres, Greenacres offers all the characteristics of an

wardrobes. A further bedroom and bathroom are on

idyllic rural property. With the main living space

offer, while a fourth room takes prime position on the

comprising of three storeys, plus an annexe and ample

second floor.

stable yard, this property caters for big families, both

An additional annexe, offering a kitchen diner, bedroom and shower room, is available within the grounds and is

inside and out.

An impressive reception hall takes centre stage upon entering, with a full height vaulted ceiling and stone

finished to an impeccable standard.

Greenacres is best appreciated for its excellent

fireplace that joins alongside an open plan kitchen and

equestrian facilities, including six large stables with

dining room, equipped with four oven Aga. Oak steps

additional washroom, tack room, feed and rug room, and

lead down to a sitting room and drawing room with

an 800m2 sandschool on site. The grounds lead on to

spectacular views over the surrounding fields.

picturesque bridleways and are located near the

Small details and original features add to the space, with reclaimed tiled floors and handmade solid oak doors throughout.

unspoiled village of Cowden.

Planning permissions has already been granted for a new entrance hall and attached separate annexe of 516sqft.

For full details contact: Batchellor Monkhouse â&#x20AC;˘ 01892 512 020 â&#x20AC;˘ www.batchellormonkhouse.com 204

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PROPERTY: Greenacres LOCATION: Cansiron Lane, Holtye PRICE: Offers in excess of ÂŁ1,500,000 BEDROOMS: 4 plus additional annexe BATHROOMS: 4, including 2 en suite, plus shower room and 1 further in the annexe EXTRAS: Feature fireplace, triple bay framed garage, landscaped courtyard BEST BITS: Ideal for horse riders with stables, sandschool, and nearby access to Ashdown Forest.

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SECURITY

OAST WITH THE MOST Beautiful oast and barn conversion in Cranbrook ONCE A BARN and four kiln oast, this historic property has

So, whether it’s a workout or a chill out you want to indulge

been newly converted and completed to a high standard.

in, everything you need is conveniently found in the

While it offers many modern luxuries, it maintains rustic

contemporary leisure rooms.

charm, with original oak beams throughout.

The house is approached via a five bar gate, to a gravel

Climb the polished oak staircase from the kitchen to discover the light and airy landing area, with wood burning

driveway with ample parking for several cars. Upon

stove and Juliet balcony, which offers uninterrupted views

entering the house you’ll find a modern country kitchen/

over the surrounding countryside. Three further double

breakfast room, complete with central island and beech

bedrooms can be found on this floor, all benefitting from

worktops. Leading on from the kitchen is a convenient utility

the stunning local views. A family bathroom with roll top

room and a further two spacious reception rooms offering

bath and master bedroom complete the upstairs level.

garden views, a guest bedroom with en suite bathroom,

As well as the stunning surrounding views, this house

double aspect study and slate tiled bathroom are also

has ample outside space, with laid to lawn gardens,

situated on this floor.

hedging and planning permission for a two bay timber

With this house you won’t even need to venture further than your front door to enjoy a spa experience, as a gym and sauna/wet room are both situated on the ground floor.

framed garage.

This spacious and idyllic property is the perfect family home, with plenty of space for all to enjoy.

For full details contact: Savills Cranbrook • 01580 720 161 • www.savills.co.uk 206

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

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PROPERTY: Folly Hill Farm Oast LOCATION: Folly Hill, Cranbrook GUIDE PRICE: ÂŁ1,350,000 BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 3, plus 1 WC room and 1 en suite EXTRAS: Planning permission for a two bay timber framed garage.

In Cranbrook school catchment area.

BEST BITS: The beautiful oak framed Juliet balcony offers a tranquil space to admire the stunning surrounding views.

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS

I REGION £1

- £1.1 MILLION

A superb penthouse apartment in Tunbridge Wells with far reaching views and within walking distance of the town centre Drawing Room. Dining Room. Kitchen Breakfast Room. Master Bedroom Suite with Dressing Room and Bathroom. Guest Bedroom with En Suite Shower Room. Mezzanine Level with Sitting Area and Study Area. Access to Private Roof Terrace. Communal Gardens. 2 Allocated Parking Spaces. EPC C

APPLY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS OFFICE

Untitled-1 2

Battle 01424 775577

Haywards Heath 01444 453181

Pulborough 01798 872081

Tunbridge Wells 01892 512020

London Mayfair Office

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26/10/2015 10:01

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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BLANK CANVAS Beautifully finished and versatile home Groombridge SET WITHIN THE heart of Groombridge

Range style cooker. Bifolding doors open to

and finished to a high specification

the rear terrace and take in further views of

throughout, Jacobs Well is a modern and

the garden, which is mostly laid to lawn and

versatile five bedroom home. Built and

surrounded by private mature hedging.

styled to include a wealth of granite, marble

Upstairs features five bedrooms, including

PROPERTY: Jacobs Well LOCATION: Meadow Road, Groombridge

and brass, with solid oak flooring

a double aspect master suite with en-suite

throughout, this property offers a blank

bathroom, with his and hers wash basins,

canvas and spacious rooms, ideal for a

and fitted wardrobes. The four further

range of uses. On entering, you are greeted

double bedrooms lead off the galleried

BEDROOMS: 5

by a vaulted reception hall, featuring inbuilt

landing, each of which include underfloor

BATHROOMS: 4 including en suite

cupboard and storage space. A triple aspect

heating and large windows to embrace both

drawing room, including a French limestone

the light and the views from the surrounding

feature fireplace, with views over the

areas. The family bathroom is beautifully

surrounding gardens, also leads off from the

finished in marble, and offers both a bath

reception hall. Also presented is an open

and a fitted shower.

plan kitchen and dining room, beautifully

Outside space offers ample parking for

GUIDE PRICE: £1,000,000 to £1,250,000

EXTRAS: Utility room with sink unit, Velux windows, underfloor heating throughout BEST BITS: Offered in perfect condition,

fitted with substantial granite work surfaces.

several vehicles, accessed through an

these blank spaces and large rooms

Integral appliances are included, featuring

electronic sliding gate, as well as an integral

provide a versatile living space for

two dishwashers and fridge freezers, and a

garage with fitted power and lighting.

any family

For full details contact: Wood and Pilcher • 01892 511 211 • www.woodandpilcher.co.uk NOVEMBER 2 0 1 5

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26/10/2015 16:52

Knights Wood, Royal Tunbridge Wells offers all of the convenience of an easy commute, with green, open spaces, local shops and a new school on your doorstep.

Register your interest now for updates on the next release of family homes at Knights Wood.

Knights Wood. The perfect place to put down roots.

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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MODERN CHARISMA Large and immaculate family home in Tunbridge Wells ASHBORN IS A beautifully presented and comprehensively remodeled family home, approached from a private drive off the sought

Downstairs also includes a bedroom suite,including en suite bathroom.

Upstairs features a simply stunning master

after Broadwater Down. This clean and

suite overlooking another Juliet balcony, and

spacious property has been extended and

includes a walk-in dressing room and two en

finished to a very high standard, offering

suite bathrooms. These both feature large

versatile living and large rooms over two

walk-in showers, fitted with digital Aqualisa

floors. An entrance hall leads to an open

technology, and underfloor heating.

dining room with oak flooring and large

Three further double bedrooms, including

windows, following through to an impressive

one further en suite, also make the most of

drawing room. This large space offers an

the property with ample space and

attractive outlook, with bi-folding doors that

excellent views.

open onto the driveway and lawned garden, and includes a Charnwood log burner.

A beautiful open plan kitchen leads off, fitted with American walnut units and quartz work surfaces. Next door is a cosy family room with

There is an additional annex offered, including a kitchenette, shower room, double

PROPERTY: Ashborn LOCATION: Broadwater Down, Tunbridge Wells GUIDE PRICE: £1,595,000 BEDROOMS: 5, plus one in annex BATHROOMS: 2 bathrooms, 4 shower rooms, plus W/C EXTRAS: TV room with inbuilt projector, fitted basement, private driveway

aspect bedroom and a sitting room, with double doors opening to a decked verandah.

Even more space is available outside, with a

Juliet balcony and beautiful views over

two bay carport, while the property includes a

the garden.

basement fitted with a utility and boiler room.

BEST BITS: The expansive rooms create a wonderful space, and the Juliet balcony is a tranquil place to enjoy the views of the garden, no matter what time of year.

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

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Kitchens Bathrooms Extensions Loft Conversions Plumbing

T: 0 1892 544988

Electrical

M: 07808 505 040

Brickwork

E: jamiemurdoch45@gmail.com

Re-pointing Driveways Decking Fencing Roofing

Building, Property Refurbishments & Landscaping

Painting Decorating Rendering Plastering

As featured in deal

home magazine

Ideal Home Untitled-9 2

26/10/2015 15:32

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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CLASSIC LIVING Spacious and flexible five bedroom house in Brenchley CHANTLERS IS A generously sized and

Velux roof lights.

well finished five bedroom house, offering

The large windows offer lovely views over

potential for expansion and development.

both the garden and further afield.

Approached through a five bar gate, leading

Upstairs, the large master bedroom suite

to an expansive paved driveway with lawned

features an arched entrance into a separate

gardens, this property is situated in the

walk in dressing area, including two double

sought after location within Brenchley village.

inbuilt wardrobes. Through the dressing

Downstairs, a large drawing room leads off from the entrance hall, offering triple aspect views, a stone fireplace with open chimney

LOCATION: Windmill Hill, Brenchley GUIDE PRICE: £1,200,000

room is a newly fitted en suite, featuring both a bath and shower, and double wash basins.

Three further double bedrooms are offered,

and French doors leading out to the garden.

featuring a mix of inbuilt cupboards and

The open plan kitchen and diner is fitted with

eaves storage. The fifth bedroom is currently

a range of light oak units and a double Belfast

being used as a study, and is fitted with a

sink. Surfaces are finished in dark granite

range of contemporary office units with

with an extra centre island, and integral

cupboards and desktop space.

appliances including the fridge, dishwasher

PROPERTY: Chantlers

A double integral garage provides ample

BEDROOMS: 5 (1 used as a study) BATHROOMS: 2 plus 1 en suite EXTRAS: Utility room, additional dining room, ample parking BEST BITS: This property has potential to extend, with the double garage offering

and AEG coffee machine.

space for parking, but could make an

plenty of space for further living

The kitchen leads through to a beautiful

excellent reception room or extended lounge

accommodation (planning permission

garden room, with vaulted ceiling and

with correct planning permission.

dependent)

For full details contact: Firefly • 01892 838 363 • www.fireflyproperties.co.uk NOVEMBER 2 0 1 5

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26/10/2015 17:09

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26/10/2015 18:01

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

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RUSTIC LIVING Grand and spacious rural property in Sevenoaks MAPLE HOUSE IS an attractive detached

to the rear terrace. It is comprehensively fitted

family house believed to have been

with an attractive range of wall and base units

constructed in the late 1920s. The house offers

finished with granite worksurfaces. There is

spacious and versatile family accommodation

also a large island unit and a range of

including three of the bedrooms having

integrated appliances. Decorative folding

en-suite facilities. The house benefits from

doors also open to the spacious utility room.

a substantial terrace and delightful

Upstairs is a substantial first floor landing,

south-facing gardens, with enhanced

leading to the master bedroom which boasts

landscaping throughout.

a walk-in wardrobe and large en suite

PROPERTY: Maple House LOCATION: Woodlands Rise, Sevenoaks GUIDE PRICE: £2,550,000

bathroom. There are two further bedroom

BEDROOMS: 5

hall with decorative staircase to the first floor.

suites, with one also featuring a walk-in

BATHROOMS: 5 including 2 en suite

Leading off are a large dining room with

wardrobe. In addition there are two further

feature fireplace and views over the garden.

double bedrooms both with ample storage.

This moves through to a triple aspect drawing

The family bathroom is equipped with a bath

room complete with woodburning stove.

and separate shower cubicle, with views over

A front door opens to a spacious entrance

Also downstairs is a south-facing study and a further sitting room to the front of the

the garden.

Outside is a gravel driveway with ample

EXTRAS: Double garage, five bar entrance gate, grand hallways

BEST BITS: Original features, including

property. The kitchen is large and

parking, and an integral double garage,

beams and fireplaces, are maintained

immaculately finished, with bi-folding doors

currently being used as a gym/games room.

throughout for rustic country living

For full details contact: Knight Frank Sevenoaks • 01732 744 477 • www.knightfrank.co.uk NOVEMBER 2 0 1 5

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SECURITY

EXPANDING SCENERY Beautiful period cottage with permission for expansion in Brenchley DATING BACK TO around the 18th Century

and finished with limestone floor tiles, which

and nesting in a semi-rural position about a

embodies the rustic feel of the property.

mile from the popular village of Brenchley, this

Sitting at the back is a country-style Rencraft

beautifully presented period cottage has been

kitchen, featuring a Belfast sink with granite,

sympathetically updated with a fresh and

wood and tiled surfaces. Integrated appliances

modern finish. It comes with the added benefit

include a double oven oil-fired Aga,dishwasher,

LOCATION: Mile Oak Road, Brenchley

of planning permission for a two-storey

washing machine and halogen hob.

GUIDE PRICE: £695,000

extension to further enhance the

Upstairs features four double bedrooms, one with a dressing room, all enjoying a lovely

accommodation to the rear.

Painted brick work and good ceiling heights create a light and spacious feel throughout, whilst period character is abundant, with drop latch doors and aged oak beams.

The house opens to an entrance hall and downstairs cloakroom, which leads through to a

PROPERTY: Mile Oak Cottage

outlook and a well-appointed stylish family bathroom to complete the accommodation.

BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 1 plus cloakroom

There is an additional garage with remote controlled electric roller door, office, workshop

EXTRAS: Beautiful cottage gardens with

and a temperature controlled wine store.

picket fence, close access to schools

A proposed extension has already been

and stations

cosy sitting room, comprising a terracotta tiled

granted and planned – this would create a

hearth with additional fireplace and wood

generously proportioned modern open plan

burning stove. A dining room leads off, complete

kitchen/family room on the ground floor and a

BEST BITS: Planning permission granted

with inglenook fireplace, with inbuilt bookshelves

master bedroom suite above.

for a two-storey rear extension and cellar

For full details contact: Savills Tunbridge Wells • 01892 507 000 • www.savills.com 216

NOVEMBER 2 0 1 5

SO TW_NOVEMBER15_Property_Savilles.indd 2

26/10/2015 17:00

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26/10/2015 10:02

Mi{fer

McAufey

Estate Agents

"'Makina 'Moves"

Te(: 01892 rettin8s@mcaureym{((er.cam Untitled-1 2

WWW.

614777

mcau(eymi((er.com

sares@mcau(eymi((er.com 26/10/2015 10:02

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SO

NEW AND IMPROVED Clean and finished new-build home in Etchingham NEEDLE VIEW IS an imposing and newly built detached home within an exclusive

fireplace with wood burning stove.

Upstairs includes a master suite, with wide

cul-de-sac, backing onto farmland views, as

views and spacious living. An en suite

part of “one of the best surviving medieval

bathroom features a remote controlled

landscapes in Northern Europe”, as appointed

shower with additional twin ended bath,

by the High Weald Area of Outstanding Beauty.

finished with ceramic tiles.

The property opens to a hallway with staircase

The guest bedroom features twin glazed

and cloakroom, and leads through to a large

doors opening to a Juliet balcony, offering

and spacious open-plan kitchen/diner. A fine

pleasant views across the neighbouring

array of hand painted units including an

countryside, with own en suite shower room.

L-shaped breakfast bar are finished with black

Two further bedrooms are also on offer, with

PROPERTY: Needle View LOCATION: Heathfield road, Burwash Weald GUIDE PRICE: £825,000 BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 3 including 2 en suite, plus cloakroom

granite surfaces and include soft close

rural views from both. Also upstairs is the

drawers. There is a fitted twin bowl sink,

family bathroom, complete with a P-shaped

EXTRAS: Light and airy garden room,

an integrated dishwasher and a Neff

bath with overhead shower, and ceramic tiles.

additional utility rom

The property is accessed from a shared

Ceran hob included.

The dining space features bi-folding doors to

shingled driveway, with ample parking and a

the rear garden. A bright and open sitting

double detached garage, constructed with

BEST BITS: A lovely new-build with

room leads through, boasting triple aspects

a tile roof and electric up-and-over doors,

clean condition, ready for personalisation

through a large bay window, and a feature

finished with a large and landscaped garden.

and family living

For full details contact: Bracketts • 01892 533 733 • www.bracketts.co.uk NOVEMBER 2 0 1 5

SO TW_NOVEMBER15_Property_Bracketts.indd 3

219

26/10/2015 17:10

est.1828

When experience counts...

brac ketts

Burwash Weald - Guide Price: £825,000

Groombridge - Guide Price: £675,000

A 4 bedroom newly built detached home, being one of three, set within an exclusive cul-de-sac backing onto farmland. The property has been finished to a high standard by local builders, W H Hodder & Sons of Wadhurst. Detached double garage, garden.

Set on the rural fringe of Groombridge village, an imaginatively designed, newly created home with its principal vaulted reception room and balcony on the first floor benefiting from the south facing views to the rear. 200' rear garden, garage and ORP.

Tunbridge Wells - Guide Price: £575,000

Southborough - Guide Price: £329,000

Occupying an outstanding location within a residential area close to the town centre, station and well regarded schools - an impressively spacious and versatile 3 bedroom home. 185' south facing rear garden with timber garden office and a nearby garage en bloc.

A most attractively presented end of terrace late-Victorian 2 bedroom cottage, upgraded in recent years to include a new kitchen, and enjoying a most pleasant position on the fringes of Southborough's amenities. Front and rear gardens.

Bid borough - Monthly Rental of£ 1,850

Tunbridge Wells - Monthly Rental of £ 1,300

A spacious detached family home located within a short walk of the village centre.

3 bedrooms, bathroom, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room. Integral garage, driveway for 2 cars and beautifully presented large rear garden.

A superbly appointed 2 double bedroom ground floor flat located on the south side of Tunbridge Wells. The flat has been recently refurbished with luxurious fixtures and fittings and a contemporary kitchen. Communal gardens, garage.

bracketts.co.uk (~mes ···-··· -

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Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733

tunbridgewells@bracketts.co.uk

26/10/2015 15:35

Thinking of moving house?

_______.ft.____ WOOD & PILCHER

/

Straight forward, straight talking professional advice and local knowledge from your estate agent If you are contemplating selling or letting your property and would like some expert advice on the current market conditions, call your local office today for your free, up-to-date market appraisal

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

CROWBOROUGH

23 High Street, Tunbridge Wells Kent TN11UT Sales 01892 511211 tunbridgewells@woodandpilcher.co.uk Letting & Management 01892 528888 lettings@woodandpilcher.com

The Cross, Crowborough East Sussex TN6 1AL Sales 01892 665666 crowborough@woodandpilcher.co.uk Letting & Management 01892 664666 lettings@woodandpilcher.com

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SOUTH BOROUGH

HEATH FIELD

TONBRIDGE OFFICE

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

26/10/2015 10:03

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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26/10/2015 15:37

ANDREWS

Yew Tree Road, TN4

Guide £550,000

Dorking Road, TN1

Guide £650,000

Individual detached 3 bedroom home set away from the road. Accommodation comprises entrance hall, store room, 24'4 x 11'11 principal reception room with exposed wooden flooring and twin double doors to garden, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, bathroom Et 3 bedrooms. Front garden, ample parking, 54'0 x 29'4 rear garden with large pond .

A room with a view! With Grosvenor Park literally yards away from your front door and spectacular views from the rear over Hilbert Recreation Ground. This charming unique detached period home has not been on the market for over 40 years and is certainly one that you need to see to appreciate! Set over 3 floors, accommodation comprises hall, 2 reception rooms, kitchen, 3 bedrooms, bathroom and amazing garden level.

Energy Efficiency Rating: D

Energy Efficiency Rating : C

Boyne Park, TN4

Guide £312,500

Individual top floor 2 bedroom apartment with own external entrance. Set in this favoured area to the west side of Mount Ephraim, this property offers generous accommodation. 2 double bedrooms, one with access to a balcony, open living room with double sided fireplace and velux windows, separate fitted kitchen, bathroom and off road parking. No onward chain .

Ravenswood Avenue, TN2

£475,000

This extended semi-detached house is set in the favoured area of St. James in Tunbridge Wells. The property comprises entrance hall, open living/dining room, conservatory, kitchen, utility area, downstairs we, three bedrooms, bathroom with bath and shower, front garden, driveway and garage and rear garden with patio, lawn and decked area.

Energy Efficiency Rating : D

Energy Efficiency Rating: C

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26/10/2015 15:37

Knight Frank

Untitled-1 2

26/10/2015 10:04

. . Knight . . Frank

Untitled-1 3

26/10/2015 10:04

Beyond your expectations

--

www.hamptons.co.uk

THllSU~ll,\YTI.\US

TIIE .....TJMl::S

Forest Row £1,850,000 An extremely attractive 8 bedroom house with over 6,500 sq ft situated on a sought after private road, in stunning gardens and grounds extending to approximately 1.75 acres. EPC: D

Langton Green £1,695,000 A fine Grade II 6 bedroom detached period house set in beautiful gardens over 1.25 acres with views.

Tunbridge Wells £1,275,000 Situated in a privileged position surrounded by open fields yet just a mile from the famous Pantiles, a unique 5 bedroom detached house offering rural outlooks from almost all windows. EPC: F

Brenchley £995,000 In a semi rural location with far reaching rural views and adjoining a 4 acre field, this 4 bedroom Grade II Listed detached barn conversion offers spacious and versatile accommodation .

Tunbridge Wells Guide Price £885,000- £910,000 A superbly and imaginatively renovated and extended detached 5 bedroom family house in highly regarded sought after location in southern part of town . EPC:D

Mayfield, Five Ashes £845,000 An exceptional and beautifully extended and refurbished detached house situated within mature gardens and enjoying views over the neighbouring countryside. EPC:C

Tunbridge Wells Office

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

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26/10/2015 10:05

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 with many original features restored but also updated. EPC: D

, I 7,000 INTERNATIONAL!

Register with us today 01892 sn 607 tunbridgewells@ham Rtons-int.com

DC Untitled-1 3

26/10/2015 10:05

Beyond your expectations

--

www.hamptons.co.uk

TIIESIJNDAYlntES

TIIE . . . .TIMES

Westerham, Kent

:r_~AMPTONS

11

INTERNATIONAL

Asking Price ÂŁ549,950 Freehold

An attractive conversion of a former coach house, near the heart of a most desirable Kentish village. Its comprehensive refurbishment by the current vendors makes for a contemporary family home (with an existing NHBC guarantee) that retains many of the property's original features and character. On entering, you are welcomed by an open reception room with two areas leading into the kitchen/dining room that benefits from granite work surfaces, a range of wall and base units and appliances, and bifolding doors onto the courtyard garden. A cloakroom completes the ground floor accommodation. To the first floor are three double bedrooms - including the master bedroom with en suite shower room - and the family bathroom. The pretty courtyard garden, ideal for entertaining, has side access and storage, including a small garage, as well as an original staircase that could be transformed into a focal point planter or water feature. EPC: C

Sevenoaks Office

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

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DC 26/10/2015 10:05

MADDISONS

- - - - RESIDENTIAL

Excellence is not a skill. It's an attitude . .t:IOJj;l.,

THE SUNDAYTIMFS

THE. .TIMES

Single Office South East "Estate Agency of the Year 2014"

Rolls-Royce Moto r Car $

"Maddisons is a shining example of how the industry could be represented and wants to change public opinion on how estate agents offer value for money. The team invests hugely in the clients before the instruction stage and pays a huge amount of attention to the finite Mol y n eux Plac e

details. With 95% of instructions for this new agency

Bredbur y llous e

coming from personal referral it seems the service and personal touches are paying dividends. The business owner has a background in high wealth banking and is bringing this precision to detail and level of client

service to the property industry. She is very passionate with excellent attention to detail, and has a clarity of Cromwell Road

Culverdcn Park

vision for the future of the business that sets her apart from the competition. The team share her vision and ethos and take pride in playing their part in building Maddison's reputation. The panel's comment was that this innovative agency is a star of the future."

Judging Panel's Comments 1\btficld

Ospringc Place

We have a proven track record in successfully selling properties in and around Tunbridge Wells and would simply love to help you make your next move. So please, call us today.

You'll feel the difference immediately.

www.maddisonsresidential.co. uk

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

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26/10/2015 15:54

Register your interest today Reservations now being taken

PASTURES WOOD, CRAWLEY DOWN, WEST SUSSEX, RH l O 4DP

CALL 01342 489 120 CALA.CO.UK

Connells

GTW300CT Images shown are taken from previous CALA showhomes and feature, fittings, decor, flooring and soft furnishings which are not included as standard in a CALA home. Images are used to suggest possible finishes which can be achieved in your home at an additional cost. Please consult a Sales Advisor for further details. Some images have been enhanced.

Untitled-2 2

26/10/2015 12:34

Camden Park, Tunbridge Wells

REGION £995,000

A spacious 6 bedroom detached family home arranged over three floors situated on the edge of this sought after road in Royal Tunbridge Wells.

Cloakroom. Lounge. Family Room. Conservatory. Kitchen/ Diner. Utility/Shower Room. Principal Bedroom Suite which includes an Ensuite Bathroom, Nursery/Study Room and Dressing Room. A further Bedroom with Lounge/Study area. 4 further Bedrooms. Family Bathroom. Shower Room. Secluded Mature rear Garden with children's play house, Workshop and Integral Garage .

• bi ••

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26/10/2015 10:06

01580 242700 Residential Sales

wealdproperty.net

Management and Lettings

BATTLE, EAST SUSSEX

£1.85 million

An exceptional and historically significant Grade II Listed Country House dating back to the 17'" Century, originally part of the Battle Abbey Estate.

Set amid impressive gardens and approximately 13 acres of picturesque Sussex farmland.

Marley House sits amid beautifully presented gardens and enchanting grounds of approximately 13 acres, the paddocks being ideal for Equestrian I livestock use.

Situated close to Battle and all the useful amenities the town provides, including excellent schools in both the private and public sector, the site dates back to the 12'h Century as the location for the original farm to Battle Abbey. This handsome country house offers 6 double bedrooms and an attractive brick built outbuilding (formerly a squash court) situated discretely within the rear garden presents exciting potential for conversion in to ancillary accommodation as a 1/2 bedroom annexe.

Ground Floor: Hallway· Drawing Room· Dining Room· Cloakroom· Boot Room • Laundry Room • Wine Cellar • Kitchen • Pantry • Garden Room I Dining area ·Larder· Snug· Rear Hallway First & Second Floors: Master Bedroom with Ensuite Bathroom and Dressing Area· Five Further Double Bedrooms· Further En suite Bathroom· Family Bath and Shower Room· Separate WC ·Approx.gross internal floor area 5,200 sq ft Gardens & Grounds: Circular Driveway • Lovingly Maintained Mature Gardens with attractive Flower Beds and Kitchen Garden· Well established Trees and Shrubs • Courtyard • Workshop I Office • Games I Pool Room • Pump Room • Swimming Pool ·Greenhouse· Potting Shed • Squash Court· Timber Barn I Garage· Stabling for 2 Horses· Tack Room· Work Shop· Paddocks· Pond

For Sale Freehold

Viewings: Strictly by appointment only via Weald Property T. 01580 242700 E.info@wealdproperty.net W. www.wealdproperty.net

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~ T h e Property

L__c, Ombudsman

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Zooplacouk Smarter property search

@) Pnmelocat1oncom . .

2 Windmill Oast, Windmill Farm, Rolvenden, Kent TN17 4PF

26/10/2015 10:07

~ ; <t?~rtenll:?

Lingfield, Surrey

A COUNTRY RESIDENCE WITH HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE A truly magnificent country residence situated on the outskirts of Lingfield backing onto the Racecourse and surrounding countryside. The property is believed to originate circa 1300 as a hunting lodge with additions in the 1500s and 1800s. This family home has been completely renovated by the current vendors to provide spacious, versatile and beautifully presented accommodation over four floors.

The lower ground floor comprises utility/store, wine store, large family

Untitled-1 2

room, cinema room, study and plant room. The ground floor consists of original reception hall with exposed beams and open fireplace, dining room with inglenook fireplace, beautiful drawing room with curved walls, study, cloakroom and stunning kitchen/breakfast/family room.

Outside the property will benefit from electric gates, circular driveway with restored Victorian gardens, detached triple barn style garage and large formal gardens to rear.

The first floor is made up from five bedroom suites all with ensuite bathrooms and three with dressing rooms. The second floor has two further bedrooms and bathroom.

To register your interest or request a

Viewings are essential to appreciate the accommodation on offer.

viewing please call our East Grinstead office.

Guide Price ÂŁ2,600,000

18 High Street, East Grinstead West Sussex, RH 19 3AW

01342 324616 sales@colesestateagents.com www.colesestateagents.com

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COLE'S ESTATE AGENTS

26/10/2015 10:08

SO

INTERIORS

A ‘WILDERNESS’ INDOORS P

lay-it-safe decorators may already be hunkering down for autumn in that time-honoured way – piling on old and familiar cosy throws and cushions – but the adventurous should explore decor’s wild side.

There’s a new rugged and real ‘wilderness’ look sweeping into style, which is either evocative of Wild West plains and cowboy ranches or, for the more intrepid, conjuring the dramatic Arctic tundra.

But don’t fret if your wanderlust only extends to taking a short trip to the countryside. A traditional rustic

woodland theme, with a style landscape teeming with creatures great and small, is still featuring strongly in collections.

“Warm and cosy in essence, ‘Tundra’ takes its influence from the distinctive timeless native traditions and breathtaking wilderness of the Arctic Circle,” explains Fiona Lambert, vice president of brand design and development at George Home, which is rapidly gaining a reputation for slick on-trend ranges and is embracing both looks.

“We see ‘Hibernate’ as a softer, more tranquil country look,

capturing autumn and narrating its colour changes through a subtle print and colour palette, and enhanced by key woodland characters and iconic images of forests and falling leaves for photographic wall prints.”

Whichever way you journey – far and wide or closer to home – it’s nature, tame or wild in tooth and claw, that’s ruling in rooms.

It’s your choice whether you seek refuge with nothing more threatening than squirrels and those ubiquitous stags, or bravely strike out and shelter with bears and wolves...

Woodland way

7

While tranquil rustic sanctuaries reflect a traditional country landscape, there are two trend trails to follow. Take to the Highlands with hunting-lodge style tartan touches and stags heads, or opt for whimsy with quirky animal motifs.

“Combining a sense of adventure and escapism, this trend stems

5

from a love of the outdoors and a back-to-basics approach to rustic living,” says Andrew Tanner, head of home design at Sainsbury’s.

“Mixing motifs sourced from the natural world, heavy plaids and Argyll knits, the feel is textural and tactile. Wood and leather finishes and a warm colour palette add to the authentic, aged feel, while enamel and ceramic pieces help create a crisp, contemporary version of country style.”

6

CAPTURE THE STYLE n Stags – still alive and kicking

cushion is a steal at £18 (down

in decor – are an essential

from £45), while Marks &

trophy for homes mimicking a

Spencer has a lovely moon

country lodge look. In Spaces’

graphite checked throw, £79. (4)

British deer wall stickers, £40,

n For a more fanciful

are spookily realistic, (1) and

woodland interpretation,

equally impressive is Gisela

feature a few of the many

Graham’s large wall hanging

critters in clothes scampering

reindeer head, £60, from The

over collections. Hats seem to be a favourite for creature

Contemporary Home. (2) n Pheasant-themed accessories from House of Fraser couldn’t be more appropriate (3) and, a bonus, some are currently

sheep cushion, £14, (5) wearing a flat cap, while the fox of

mat sets are down to £14 from £20, and matching coaster set, £7

n Natural choice: George

from £10. Complement with two

Home’s popped a woolly hat on a squirrel; watercolour squirrel

framed prints, Linea Highlands pheasant and feather framed wall art set, £50. n If tartan’s your taste, the Linea grey and red plaid sham

234

3

comfort, with Next’s sheep, who adorns a 3D photographic

Tesco’s ‘Hey foxy’ mug, £2.50, has a top hat. (6)

reduced. Linea pheasant place

4

cushion, £8, and its ‘All good things are wild and free’

1

2

cushion, £8, seem to sum up the theme. (Both 7)

NOVEMBER 2 0 1 5

SO TW_NOVEMBER15_Interiors_Wildlife.indd 2

28/10/2015 11:22

INTERIORS

Settler spirit

CAPTURE THE STYLE

Nomadic, pioneering and free-spirited, this look evokes

n Wood panelling’s

n George Home’s

a Navajo cushion, £14, (11)

the rolling prairies of the Wild West, or for those with real

essential for a timbered

collection, featuring faux

and suitably inspiring

decor wanderlust, the chilly, wintry beauty of a

cabin retreat, and faux-

fur and wilderness

‘seek adventure’ wooden

snowbound vista.

effect Reclaimed wood

creatures, is perfect for that

plaque, £12. (12) Set the

panel effect faux wallpaper

striking remote log cabin

mood with an impressive

underpinned it with a characteristic colour spectrum of

in beige, £14.99 a roll,

look. Tapestry bear cushion

antler chandelier,

brown, charcoal and neutral hues, complemented by rusty

Lancashire Wallpapers on

and tapestry wolf cushion,

from £375 at Alexander

orange and golden tones, to add warmth and richness,”

Amazon, avoids the need

both £10; a faux fur throw,

& Pearl. (13)

says George Home’s Lambert.

for DIY. (8) Alternatively,

£25, and dramatic ram’s

n Natural choice: Rustle

Cole & Son woods foil

head ornament, £18

a steer, cowboy-style.

and mohair for luxurious comfort and detail, in designs

wallpaper, £87 a roll, from

(re-stocked end of

Abigail Ahern edition grey

featuring tribal prints, animals and embroidered

Fashion Wallpaper, could

October). (All 10)

Highland cow head, £75,

landscapes. Carved imitation bone accessories are a

conjure a bleak winter

n A frontier look’s similarly

from her new range at

perfect finishing touch.”

forest landscape. (9)

echoed by Sainsbury’s, with

Debenhams. (14)

“We’ve embraced a raw, innate landscape and

“Add texture with rustic linens, chunky knits, faux fur

SO

12

14

9 10

8

11 13

NOVEMBER

SO TW_NOVEMBER15_Interiors_Wildlife.indd 3

2015

235

28/10/2015 11:23

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26/10/2015 10:08

GARDENS

SO

Glorious Gardens This month Emma Davies who runs the Walled Nursery in Hawkhurst with her husband Monty is embracing a virtual approach to gardening…

T

how has it affected me in my real life?

he nights are drawing in, the

There is a large gardening community

evenings and mornings are

on Twitter. If you think about it, gardening

From a business perspective, it has raised

positively chilly and you should be

can be quite a solitary occupation or

our profile hugely, we do have many

well on the way to preparing to put the

hobby, just you and the birds and bees,

visitors who have come to us as they’ve

garden to bed for the winter. You should’ve

which is quite honestly why it appeals to

been following what we’re up to on

completed the tidying you wish to do, but

most of us! We’re given a chance to slow

Twitter. We have been written about in

do remember our feathered friends and the

down, to look at things in close detail, to

many different national papers and

insect world – make sure you’re not too

set yourself challenges, create new areas

magazines, all of which came about via a

tidy! Biennials should be in now, such as

and enjoy the fruits of our labours. Twitter

tweet here or there. I have discovered new

wallflowers to give you spring cheer, and

has all of these things in abundance and

plants, a photo in a tweet which has

you can pat yourself on the back and take a

for me, I find it fuels my desire, increases

caught my eye, I then track down a plant

well-earned rest! So what can you do to

my knowledge, introduces me to new

or seeds and I’m off and away. I have

satisfy your gardening thirst over the winter

gardens, plants, products, nurseries and

discovered so many interesting gardens

months? Of course, there is still much to do

lets me know of gardening events to

and nurseries to visit that my fellow

in the garden over winter: pruning of roses,

attend, inspiring me endlessly.

horti- followers have introduced me to as

Not convinced yet? Who is on Twitter

well as helping me to connect with local

winter flowering plants that on the whole

that may interest you? Close to home, we

craftspeople to find interesting, quality,

also have knock-out scent, drawing you out

have Great Dixter, several of Sissinghurst

hand- made gifts to stock in our nursery…

in the garden but at some point, the ground

Castle’s gardeners including Troy their

we’ll leave the mass produced tatt to

will freeze over and you’ll be forced to put

head gardener, as well as designers such

everyone else!

your feet up!

as Jo Thompson, multi gold award winner

trees and shrubs. There are many delightful

Sound interesting? Why not give it a try?

at the Chelsea Flower Show and Sarah

If you’re not sure where to start, search for

gardening! I can hear you saying, ‘oh, I

Wilson who recently won gold for her

us @thewallednurser and take a look at

don’t bother with all of that’, well, maybe

garden at Hampton Court Flower Show.

who’s following us or who we’re following

you should? A few years ago, when I was

Then on to the celebrities – Christine

and start following them yourself. You’ll then

nagged by my sister to set up our plant

Walkden is very active on Twitter, Rachel

be off and away, now I’m just off to have a

nursery on Twitter, I said exactly what I just

de Thame and Monty Don, whose dog

look at the latest project Dan Pearson is

predicted you would say, ‘I don’t have the

Nigel also has his own Twitter persona!

tweeting about as I have a large new border

time’, ‘I don’t understand it’; ‘what’s the

The latest newbie to Twitter is the legend

I want to create and I need inspiration!

point?’ Three years down the line, our little

himself, garden designer, multi gold

plant nursery tucked away down a lane in

winner at Chelsea and all round good egg,

rural Hawkhurst, has 3,000 followers from

Dan Pearson.

Welcome to the virtual world of

not just the UK but from all over the world!

So, living in a virtual gardening world,

Happy Gardening, Emma

NOVEMBER 2 0 1 5 2 3 7

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28/10/2015 11:24

-

SO

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Gardenproud was established in 2007 and is based near Tunbridge Wells.

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

Pot & Box Bedding - Alpines - Roses Conifers - Winter Heathers - Trees Shrubs with seasonal interest - Hedging

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Traditional or contemporary, large or small, the designers at Gardenproud can help you create a garden you'll be proud of. Our project managers will take you through design, approvals, hard landscaping and planting.

IF YOU ARE PLANNING A NEW GARDEN FOR 2016 THEN CONTACT TIM SYKES ON 07725 173820, OR .JUST GOOGLE GARDENPROUD

Time to plant - Fruit trees - Bushes Onion sets - Garlic - Raspberry Canes

Seeds for early sowing

Extensive Range of Garden Essentials Tools • Fertilisers ·Weed a Pest Controls Compost· Autumn Lawn Food etc

TASTE BUDS where you can enjoy a hot beverage • light lunch afternoon tea and a choice of homemade cakes

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Chilstone has a wonderful collection ofhronze and bronze resin animals from only £25 ! A whole garden full of special gifts for a special person in your life or as a year round treat for the wildlife in your garden - birdbaths, animal feeders, fountains and much more.

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Are vou sitting on atortuneil We are always on the look out for property with development potential.

If you think your property could be redeveloped, why not give us a call without obligation and in confidence.

Many of our clients retain our services and, in the majority of cases, pay our fees saving property owners significant costs.

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PROJECTS

LAND & DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANTS

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Call us now For regular updates, visit us at ~ twitter.com/sjdprojects Contact Stephen Donnelly on 07739 514350 or 0845 456 8969

web: sjd-projects.com â&#x20AC;˘ email: steve@sjd-projects.com

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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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GARDENS

HOUSEOLOGY

Ak47 rondo fire pit, £14,181 www.occa-home.co.uk

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THE PLAYGROUND Brighten up your outside space with these fun additions

SWOON EDITIONS

Coco outdoor set of two chairs in cerise, £349 www.swooneditions.com

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Brighton garden shed in pastel pink, £249.95 www.cuckooland.com

FURNISH.CO.UK

Teacup stool, £140 each www.furnish.co.uk

OUTLINE WORKS

Trophy deer bicycle holder, £129 www.amara.com

GARDEN GLORY

Yellow fellow garden hose, £89.95 www.amara.com

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GARDENS

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Help the Hedgehogs

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PA PHOTO/THINKSTOCKPHOTOS

How to save our prickly friends from the dangers of extinction

edgehog populations are in trouble. They’ve declined by 30% in the last 10 years alone and

there are now thought to be fewer than a million left in the UK, according to the Royal Horticultural Society.

So, what can gardeners do about it?

This year, the RHS and The Wildlife Trusts are teaming up with the campaign Hedgehog Street to encourage us to make hedgehog-friendly.

“Improving your gardens for invertebrate

garden centres and online.

“There’s going to be an indirect benefit when it comes to plant choice,” says

groups will encourage hedgehogs into the

Bostock. “If you increase invertebrates

garden, as insects, slugs, snails and

you will encourage the hedgehogs’ natural

earthworms are the hedgehog’s natural

food sources.”

food source,” says Helen Bostock, RHS senior horticultural adviser.

Hedgehogs are not herbivores, so will

At this time of year, just before hibernation, good pollinating plants including asters, dahlias, Japanese

not feast on leaves, flowers or other plant

anemones, sedums and Verbena

matter, but they will feed on the pollinating

bonariensis will all encourage just the type

insects and other species which are

of invertebrates hedgehogs need to get

attracted to particular plants.

them through the winter.

As well as feeding on slugs and snails,

Bear in mind that hedgehogs only have

PA PHOTO/ IAIN GREEN

gardens, schools and community spaces

that space to forage.”

Gardeners should not cut everything

hedgehogs also eat groups of beetles,

short legs and don’t do well on steep

back as soon as late autumn arrives,

caterpillars, earthworms and even birds’

inclines, she says.

she says. Leave some stems standing to

eggs, as well as meat-based dog and cat food, or dry hedgehog food available from

“Remove potential hazards. Any steep

provide effective cover and if you want

sides on ponds can lead to hedgehogs

to buy or make hedgehog shelters, make

drowning. Create a gentle ramp to allow

sure they are sturdy and that their holes

them easy access in and out of the water.

are big enough for access, and place

“Check bonfire piles before you light

them in a quiet spot with natural cover

them, as hedgehogs may be hiding

such as leaves, so that rain doesn’t flood

underneath them and be careful when

the shelter.

strimming long grass, where they may be

To illustrate the point, RHS Harlow Carr in

found. Also, don’t leave litter or items like

Yorkshire is launching three gardens which

fruit cage netting loose for hedgehogs to

are each 5m by 5m – one contemporary,

get caught up in. Open drains and trenches

one formal and the other wild – with small

can also cause problems.”

holes in the boundaries to allow hedgehog

We’re also encouraged to create 13cm by 13cm hedgehog holes in fences, walls and other barriers to allow these creatures

access, featuring planting which will attract invertebrates and hedgehog shelters.

Leafy plants including hostas, which

to access different gardens for food

provide both cover and attract slugs and

and shelter.

snails, which are food for hedgehogs, are

“Solid boundaries are problematic for

featured in the gardens, as are willow

hedgehogs,” says Bostock. “Adults travel

shelters, short grasses and bare soil, where

between 1 and 2km per night and need

they can forage for worms.

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PATEK PHILIPPE GE NEVE Begin your own tradition.

By Appointment to HerMajestyTheOue,m

11 G. Col~~:: :~ns Ltd Royal Tunbridg e Wells

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--------路 路-------76/78, High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1YB Telephone: (01892) 534018 Fax: (01892) 510536 email : info@gcollinsandsons.com 路 www.gcollinsandsons.com

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