SOTWJune2017

THE TENOR IN TONBRIDGE

Russell Watson tells us all about his upcoming concert

FESTIVAL FUN

JUNE 2017 WWW.SOMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Your ultimate guide to the best festivals taking place this summer

WORK AND PLAY An entrepreneur’s advice on how to be positively productive

COMING UP ROSES

Your June planting tips

SWISS BLISS

Unwind in one of Europe’s finest spas

SUITS YOU,SIR

Styling tips, grooming products and wardrobe updates for men

n a h g e M Markle MAKES HER MARK ON THE ROYALS AND US

SO TW_JUNE17_Cover.indd 17

25/05/2017 15:24

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 09:37

Untitled-69 3

25/05/2017 09:37

HAPPY HEARTS

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 09:47

HAPPY DIAMONDS

By Appointment lo Hf!r- Majrny TM QuHn

JcW<!llcr

c eom... & Son, Limit.<!

Roya.I 1\mbridge We.Us

~.

C!Colltn~ & ~on~ ----------••---------Royal Tunbridge Wells Tel. 01892 534018 I www.gcollinsandsons.com

Untitled-69 3

25/05/2017 09:47

I I

â&#x20AC;˘

Designers and makers

of handmade kitchens

The difference is in the detail

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 09:49

_j

---

j

,~

I

Please call for a brochure or visit our showrooms

c-

f

• houzz

20....,

Unit 9, Chari Form, Seal Chart Sevenoaks, Kent TN l 5 0ES Tel : 01732 762682

www.rencraft.co.uk

Untitled-69 3

8 1 Calverley Road Tunbridge Welb:,, Kent TN l 2UY Tel: 01892 520730

EW

B

AWA,

s

·-I AL

IAIIIIY-

• houzz

?

11(

B

~-

s

--AWA,

J

....... ~y-

25/05/2017 09:49

SUBJECT

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

COMMERCIAL Anna Hawkins ahawkins@onemediauk.co.uk

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Richard Moore rmoore@onemediauk.co.uk

PUBLISHED BY

~ia

and creative uk l t d -

All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial. The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit.

Editor’s letter W ELCO M E TO YO U R J U N E I S S U E O F S O

S

ometimes, I take for granted where I live.

I’m surrounded by countryside, get to spend every day in the buzz of Tunbridge Wells and am able to spend my weekends at wonderful local landmarks, at the coast or in a fabulous pub garden. But, when the going gets tough, or I’m wondering exactly how much it’ll cost to repair the hole in the kitchen ceiling, it can be easy to forget my surroundings. Which is why, I’m grateful for our ‘Love where you Live’ feature (page 19). Hearing why local people are passionate about their area encourages me to take stock and appreciate what I have on my doorstep.

Now that summer’s finally here, not only is it time to appreciate your surroundings, it’s also the time to get outside and embrace live music. That’s right, festival season is underway, so dig out those wellies and flick to page 40 where you’ll find our guide to all the best events taking place this summer. Band t-shirt and floral headband optional, but encouraged, of course…

Over the past few weeks, the royal family have very much been the centre of attention – from William, Kate and Harry’s mental health campaign, to Pippa’s extravagant wedding splashed all over the papers, you can’t escape what they’ve been up to.

But, we wanted to know a bit more about Prince Harry’s girlfriend Meghan Markle, so this month she’s our cover star, and on page 57 we delve a little deeper to discover what makes the actress tick.

This month sees Father’s Day taking place, and we’ve got some great grooming and fashion ideas for men in our style section (page 61) as well as some men’s styling advice from our expert Catherine de Crevecoeur on page 65.

Have a great, fun-filled June. See you next month!

EDITOR cbond@onemediauk.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICKS What I’m coveting this month…

TOPSHOP

CATH KIDSTON

MICHAEL KORS

Gabriel slingback heel shoes, £59

Banana split handbag, £65

Off-the-shoulder dress, £195

These yellow shoes bring sunshine to any outfit. www.topshop.com

Who said accessories had to be serious? www.cathkidston.com

The season’s hottest style and colour in one dress. I love. www.houseoffraser.co.uk

8 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Contents.indd 8

25/05/2017 09:30

INTRODUCTION

Contents YO U R LU X U RI O U S LO CA L LI F ES T Y LE M AG A Z I N E

12 | Local picture 18 | Love where you live 22 | June calendar 34 | Russell Watson talks to us

40 | Festival guide 57 | Cover star Meghan Markle 70 | Grooming products for gents 88 | Tasty treats at the Tickled Trout

100 | Travel to Switzerland 120 | Stylish bathroom suites 131 | Beautiful Wealden homes 159 | Juneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s looking rosy

40161 88 94 46 57 146

120

112

54 SO TW_JUNE17_Contents.indd 9

SO Magazine / MAY 2017 / 9

27/05/2017 09:57

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 09:51

Untitled-69 3

25/05/2017 09:51

SUBJECT

12 \ FEBRUARY 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_LocalPicturePage.indd 12

25/05/2017 09:54

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

FIELDS OF GOLD A SUMMER SUNSET IN T UNBRID GE WELLS Picture by Craig Matthews Have you got a local picture youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to see printed?

Email info@somagazines.co.uk

SO TW_JUNE17_LocalPicturePage.indd 13

25/05/2017 09:54

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 09:51

Untitled-69 3

25/05/2017 09:52

IJ CHAMBER F URNI T URE

Design, innovation and craftsmanship in every detail.

Our philosophy is simple; having furniture custom built should be a joy from start to finish. Furniture designed around your life. Every project regardless of scale, be it one room or on entire house is welcomed and afforded the some enthusiasm and core.

chomberfurnilure.co.uk

I 01959 532553

Chamber Furniture, The Old Timber Yard, London Rood, Halstead, Kent, TN 14 7DZ Showroom open Monday-Friday 9-5:30pm, Saturday 9-3pm

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 09:53

TALKING POINT

WELLS on the WEB T H E S TO RY EV ERYO N E ’ S B EEN D I S C U S S I N G T H I S M O N T H

Game Over

A

nother retail outlet has closed its doors in Tunbridge Wells, leaving one more unit empty in the town.

GAME, a video game retailer which had been in the Royal Victoria Place shopping centre for many years has ceased trading,

with a note on the door reading: “Store closed. Sorry for the inconvenience.”

The retailer has confirmed the closure is permanent, meaning that there will be another vacant space.

Since August, the BHS site opposite has

been empty, but rumours that it’s set to become a Primark resurfaced recently when a comment on a Tunbridge Wells community Facebook group claimed that the retailer had been interviewing for positions in the store.

COFFEE BECAUSE

ADULTING IS HARD

Soup o/ - ~' the DAY:

ClfAMPAGNJi We’ll have this for starter, main and dessert thanks!

That #FridayFeeling in the office…

The struggle is real.

Check out more pictures over on our Instagram account – @somagazines SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 17

SO TW_JUNE17_Wells_on_the_web.indd 17

25/05/2017 11:17

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

Where’s your favourite place to eat locally?

For breakfast, it has to be the local Carluccios. For a light lunch, we’re big fans of Basil and The Velo House again, and for dinner we do enjoy the range of curry houses, especially Kirthon on The Pantiles.

Are there any nice views nearby?

Many. Tunbridge Wells has some stunning scenery. We’re very fortunate.

♥

LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE

♥

A L F ER G U S O N I S A PA R EN T B L O G G ER W H O R U N S T H E DA D N E T W O R K . H ER E , H E T ELL S U S W H Y H E L OV E S W H ER E H E LI V E S …

Where do you live?

Royal Tunbridge Wells.

How long have you lived there and what made you decide to move there?

Born and bred! I grew up in the St John’s area and until I see somewhere better, I’ll be staying in the area. This is such a beautiful part of the UK with great connections to all kinds of attractions; the countryside, the beach, the city and of course, airports for travelling further afield.

usual spot. But we’re spoilt in this area with so many gorgeous and quiet trails, like Groombridge, for example.

The best place to get a cup of coffee?

My go-to spot at the moment is The Velo House. I like riding, but also, they do a mean hot chocolate! We’re also fans of Basil.

What’s your favourite shop locally?

My favourite shop definitely has to be B&Q. Mainly because they open so early, it means I can take Ted first thing in the morning. He loves it in there – lots to see!

Where do you take people when they come to visit?

If people come and visit us, we always suggest a trip on the Spa Valley Railway.

Having this gem on our doorstep has been a lifesaver since Ted became obsessed with steam trains! Plus, such a lovely family activity for a weekend.

Where’s the best place to go for a Sunday stroll?

We love heading off to Knole Park. It’s a very special place to my wife, so we tend to head over there on a Sunday afternoon. If we’re staying closer, Dunorlan Park is our

What’s the night life like where you live?

There’s a pretty decent nightlife – not that I’m one for hardcore clubbing! The great thing about this area is the range of nice pubs – they certainly mean you can escape for a drink in the evenings.

If you’re looking to relax and unwind, where’s your favourite place to go?

On the way out towards Wadhurst, there’s a small spa run by the most amazing women, called Knowle Grange. My wife and I, if we have any spare time to ourselves (which is rare) will book up straight away and spend a few hours relaxing in the Jacuzzi or having a massage. It’s our little bit of heaven that we escape to every now and again to relax.

Where’s the best place to meet friends and socialise?

With children, the best places (when the weather is bad) are the sports centre or local soft play venues. If it’s nice and sunny, you can’t beat the range of parks.

What do you do when you spend a weekend or day off in the local area?

If I can get out the house on my own, I’ll go for a run or ride. There are plenty of trails and cycling routes around and as soon as Ted’s of an age to join me, I imagine we’ll spend a lot of time out on the bikes!

Why do you love where you live?

Tunbridge Wells is without doubt, a great place to raise a family. And that’s why I love it so much. The schools, attractions and facilities are perfect for our family.

www.thedadnetwork.co.uk

18 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Love_where_you_live.indd 18

27/05/2017 09:51

KITCHEN

DINING

BATHROOM

Our Limehouse ki tchen is sleek and minimal and is our most technically advanced kitchen, raking 30 processes ro complete a single door. le stands true co our DNA and uses only natural materials and tradi tional craftsmanship, and sleek as it is, the finish is still hand-painted and carries with it rhac beautifully tactile narure. It's contemporary in style and though c.

Come and discuss your new kitchen with us today!

neptune.com Neptune Tonbridge, 1-2 Tannery Road, TN91RF, 01732 351866, info@neptunetonbridge.com Neptune Canterbury, Wincheap, CT1 3n', 01227 209300, info@neptunecanterbury.com

Untitled-69 2

NEPTUNE

25/05/2017 10:00

L’AMORE

Complimentary cocktail for every SO reader.

---AT---

Friday – Sunday Between 5pm – 7pm Valid until 30th June

ONE WARWICK PARK HOTEL

To redeem simply present this voucher

TWO MAIN COURSE DISHES FOR THE PRICE OF ONE Every Monday and Tuesday. From 12 – 5.30pm

STEAK NIGHT

Every Wednesday. Available all day

LIVE MUSIC

Every Friday and Saturday

BUY ONE SUNDAY ROAST GET ONE HALF PRICE Every Sunday

PRE OR POST JAZZ NIGHT SET MENU Every Thursday

BOOK NOW www.onewarwickpark.co.uk 01892 520587

OWP_Advert_FullPage_FINAL.indd 1

26/05/2017 15:42

SUMMER SHAP UP! l MONTH MEMBERSHIP £49 I 3 MONTHS MEMBERSHIP £109 BENEFITS OF JOINING ./ Unlimited use of the gym, swimming pools and exercise classes ./ Induction & personal programme In the gym. Free programme reviews. ./ Friendly, expert team to guide and support you ./ Badminton. Squash and table tennis court hire ./ 7 day advanced online booking for classes and courts ./ Complimentary use of all three of our centres T&CS APPLY: OFFER VALIDO 1/06/17 • 31/08/17 Not in conjunction wilh any other offer. The offer is subject to availablllly and ea, be withdrawn at any time. Offer is not valid on Joint, corporate. Inclusive or youth memberships.

EOENBRIDGE LEISURE CENTRE

ft Stangrove Fl:lrk. Edenb~dge. Kent TN8 5LU . . . 01732 865665

I elc@senclo.org.uk

SEVENOAKS LElSURE C ENTRE

ffl Bucktlurst Lane, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1LW Iii 01732 470700 I slc@senclo.org.uk WHITE OAK LEISURE CENTRE

f!!I HIida May Avenue, SWanley, Kent BR8 78T . . . 01322 662188

I wolc@senclo.org.uk

What the best dressed bathrooms are wearing this year.

Ripples Tunbridge Wel ls 65-67 St Jo hns Road, Tunb ri dge Well s TN4 9TT Te l: 01892 617462 Ripples Brig hton Tel: 01273 841228 Ripples Reigate Tel: 01737 226450 ripplesbathrooms.com

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 21

p21_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 21

25/05/2017 11:31

JUNE

June

CALENDAR 2nd  Art Fair Taking place in the New Beacon Centre, the International Art Fair will showcase artwork from 23 galleries – featuring pieces of the highest standard and diversity. Contemporary paintings, sculpture and photography will be on show as well as large sculptures in the school grounds.

Running from the Friday to the Sunday, this event is the ideal way to kick start your June. Open from 11am each day, TOFS and Hush Heath will be on hand with refreshments, and there will be Dinesh Maharjan’s afternoon tea available as well food and beverages from Sulstons Kitchen.

3rd  Comedy Fix Celebrate Susan Calman’s tenth year in comedy with her performance at The Trinity Theatre this month.

Susan describes herself as “taller than a borrower but shorter than the average thirteen year old child” who “likes fine wines, kittens and walks along the beach.” Perfect for a girls’ night, The Calman before the Storm, starting at 8pm, is priced at £17 per ticket and open to anyone over the age of 16. The Edinburgh Festival Magazine described the show as “high energy throughout… never a dull moment for the audiences.” To buy tickets, visit www.trinitytheatre.net

3rd  Give it a Golf!

Try something new this month with FORE! Women – a female friendly golf taster session running from 2 to 4pm. King’s Hill Golf Course are hosting this event as an opportunity for novices and complete beginners to take their first steps in golf and be introduced to three basic golfing skills: putting, chipping and the long shots. With about 30 minutes spent on each skill with a professional golf coach, you’ll be guided closely as well as having time to have a go yourself. Refreshments are included and the session is priced at £5 per person. www.forewomen.co.uk

3rd Glorious Gardens Penshurst Place are hosting their annual Glorious Gardens celebration over the weekend of the 3rd. The event includes a head gardeners tour from Cory Furness as well artistic talent from Crowborough Arts who will be capturing the beauty of the garden as they work live. The events will also be followed by afternoon tea. The tour will cover the 11 acres of gardens and give an insight into the work of maintaining the grade I listed grounds. Tickets for the tour are limited and must be pre-booked at a price of £20 – all other activities are included in the standard admission price. For more information visit www.penshurstplace.com

22 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Calendar2.indd 22

25/05/2017 10:42

CALENDAR

4th  Comedic Genius The Assembly Hall Theatre is hosting Al Murray the Pub Landlord: Let’s Go Backwards Together this June. The Evening Standard described Al Murray’s as “comedy creation at his best in these confusing political times.” The show, in which Al Murray embarks on a “common sense campaign to re-Great Britain” is priced at £17.50 and tickets are available to purchase at www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

7th  Regal Viewing Royal Ballet: The Dream, Symphonic Variations, Marguerite & Armand is coming to Trinity Theatre.

Choreographed by Frederick Ashton, and with music from Felix Mendelsshohn, César Franck and Franz Liszt, the mixed programme demonstrates the creative vision of Frederick Ashton, Founder Choreographer of The Royal Ballet. The performance is an adaptation of Shakespeare’s riotous A Midsummer Night’s Dream and features six dancers performing a series of quartets, duets, sextets and solos. Tickets are £19 and available at www.trinitytheatre.net

16th  Joy Festival Hosted by Groombridge Place, Joy Festival is the event you don’t want to miss this June.

With a variety of carefully selected pop-up shops, a night market, food trucks and artists alongside a host of creative activities for all ages, Joy is an innovative, eclectic and unique festival that brings together the latest trends in creative shopping, gastronomy and lifestyle featuring three days of live music.

Day, weekend, camping and VIP tickets are all available at www.joyfestival.co.uk

17th  Classic Contemporary

Renowned for the intimacy of their live performances, why not re-live some of Elbow’s classic songs such as Cast of Thousands and Leaders of the Free World at their gig at Bedgebury Pinetum this month. Not an opportunity to miss, Elbow’s rise over the past two decades has made them one of the biggest contemporary bands in British music. Specials guests will also include Steve Mason and Ed Harcourt. The arena opens at 6pm with live music starting at about 7.30pm. Tickets are £41.50 plus a £4.65 booking fee. Children under 5 enter free. www.elbow.co.uk SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 23

SO TW_JUNE17_Calendar2.indd 23

25/05/2017 09:29

THE MULTIROOM COLLECTION Our collection of wireless sp eakers Is designe d to co nnect Into one Mu l t iroom au d io system, allowing you to simultaneously p lay diffe rent m usic in differe nt rooms - o r the same tune in all rooms .

E

0

.

'-!

C

,!! :,

9Ol C

2l

MU LTIROOM COLLECTION

BANG & OLUFSEN LIKE NO ONE ELSE

Bang & Olufsen of Bexleyheath 155 Broadway Bexleyheath KenrDA6 7EZ Tel: 020 8303 2760

Bang & Olufsen of Bromley 62 High Street Bromley KentBR11EG Tel: 020 8466 8080

Bang & Olufsen of Cambridge 29 Magdalene treet Cambridge CB30AF Tel: 01223 464400

Bang & Olufsen of Maidstone 37 Royal Star Arcade Hjgh Street Maidstone ME 14 1JL Tel: 01622 756756

Bang & Olufsen of Tunbridge Wells 66 Mount Pleasant Road Tunbridge Wells KentTN11RB Tel: 01892 527525

"Example. Purchase of 2 x Beoplay MS speakers (RRP £529 each) Total Cash Price El,058 less £98 deposit. Loan amount £968 repayable by 24 monthly payment s of £4 0. Tot al amount payable ( including deposit) El,058, 0%A PR ( representive). Written quotations i,vallable on req uest. Credit is available to over 18s and subject to sta tus. Deposit is requi red. Cost o f installation is not included. Offer available from 13th March to 31st May 2017, Part icipating st ores act as credit brokers and only otter credit p roducts from a small panel of lenders.

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 10:02

Buying & Selling?

Get in touch: Tel:

01227 811720

Email: enquiries@lwauctionservices.co.uk Visit us: www.lwauctionservices.co.uk Or: www.the -saleroom.com By appOin trnen t only: Canterbury Innovation Centre.University Road, Canterbury. Kent CT2 7FG

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 25

p25_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 25

25/05/2017 16:57

JUNE

17th Father’s Weekend Taking place on the weekend of the 17th June and running over both days, A Weekend for Dad at Penshurst Place is centred on a theme of the Roman army during the invasion of Britain in 43AD. Hands on History are giving a public workshop using a select group of young visitor volunteers to demonstrate how soldiers would use roman shield formations. Ideal for all the family, the event promises to be both education and enjoyable for all. There will also be a military headwear helmet game as well a variety of photo opportunities. The day runs from 11am to 5pm and full information is available at www.penshurstplace.com

17th  100 Voices Debra Stephenson’s Night of 100 Voices is arriving at the Assembly Hall Theatre for a night of live music and comedy entertainment. The event is designed to take the audience on a nostalgic journey through decades of popular music, paying tribute to many of the worlds’ favourite singers – including Billy Holliday, Paloma Faith Barbara Streisand and Adele.

Starting at 7.30pm, tickets are £18 at www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

18th  Father’s Fun Salomon’s are hosting a day of activities for Father’s Day this year.

Treat Dad to a delicious BBQ, hog roast and mini beer festival on the terrace whilst listening to live music! There’s also a free pint of ale for all dads. All activities, including food, will be available throughout the day, from midday to 4pm at a small price. Lawn games and penalty shootout are free of charge. For more information visit www.salomons-estate.co.uk

24th  Family Festival Running since 1970 and almost at its 50th year, The Sevenoaks Summer Festival is running from the 24th June until July 9th and includes a variety of comedy, dance, drama, magic, and vocal festivities. With a bit of everything, from jazz workshops to an open mic night and the annual photography exhibition, this is the perfect chance to get a large group together and find a little something for everyone. More details, including individual event pricing and tickets, is available at www.sevenoaksfestival.org.uk

26 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Calendar2.indd 26

25/05/2017 10:42

CALENDAR

24th  Track Treats Treat someone this month to a fish & chip supper at Kent & East Sussex Railway. Board from Tenterden at 6pm ready for a 6.30pm departure. Your chosen meal will be served on departure and there’s opportunity to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, glass of wine or a glass of locally brewed beer at the at-seat trolley service towards Bodiam (additional charge applies.) At Bodiam station, the Cavell Van and Gift Shop will be open before the train returns to Tenterden for a 9.15pm arrival. You can choose from cod or haddock with chips or jumbo sausage, chicken or vegetarian spring roll with chips. Advanced booking is required at www.kesr.org.uk – adult tickets are £25.20 and children £19.80.

25th  Summer Starter The Welcome to Summer event at Bewl Water, taking place on Sunday 25th of June from 11am to 6pm promises to be a fun filled day in the beautiful country settings. Activities include pedalos and rowing boats, a 45 foot inflatable obstacle course, mini ranger cars, penalty shoot-out, live music as well as a Pimm’s stand, ice cream stands and BBQ selling tasty hot dogs and burgers. Booking is not essential for the event, but you can register your interest online at www.bewlwater.co.uk. Some events may require a small charge and parking is £2.

25th  Vintage Finds

Running from 11am to 4.30pm and priced at £5 per entry, this colourful Summer Vintage Fair at Chiddingstone Castle includes stalls, refreshments, dancing and entertainment, all with a vintage theme. Ideal for all the family, children can enter for £1, and under 5s are free. For full details on how you can celebrate the byegone days in style, visit www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk

25th  A night at the Opera As part of the Sevenoaks Summer Festival, A Night at the Opera – a selection of opera choruses, in association with Sevenoaks Philharmonic Society, will be held at the Stag Theatre, Sevenoaks. The evening will be conducted

by Robyn Sevastos, the music director of the society since 2002. In addition to her role with Sevenoaks Philharmonic Society, she is currently music director of London Opera Productions among others – not one to miss! For full details, visit www.sevenoaks-philharmonic.org.uk SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 27

SO TW_JUNE17_Calendar2.indd 27

25/05/2017 09:30

·m·~· ·

m w

HEYER CASTLE

HEYER CASTLE

~

•

1

& GARDENS CHILDHOOD HOME OF ANNE BOLEYN

f/dl

& GARDENS CHILCH000 HOME OF ANNE BOLEYN

FATHER'S DAY SUPER CARS 17&18JUNE

JUNE 24&25 Enjoy a special selection of rare and iconic Ferraris and Alfa Romeos.

In partnership with the Henry Surtees Foundation. Supported by Ferrari Owners' Club of Great Britain, Kent and the Alfa Romeo Owners Club.

FOR MORE I

FORMATIO ' VISIT

hevercas tie. co. uk/wha tson Or call - 0 I 732 865224

Step back to the 1940s and discover what life was like during the Second World War. Come in vintage dress and really enter the spirit of the era.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT

hevercastle. co. uk/whatson Or call - 0 I 732 865224

28 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p28_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 28

25/05/2017 11:34

HrnFrn .. KEnrs BICiGEST HITS

PIMM'S

â&#x20AC;¢ Terms & Conditions apply, see kentcricket.co.uk for further info

Untitled-90 1

25/05/2017 16:25

EVERYTHING

e

EXAMPLE

18ct White Gold Diamond Cluster

!;

% OFF

MUST BE CLEARED

A unique and once in a lifetime opportunity to buy Diamond Rings. Quality Diamond Jewellery. Watches and Jewellery of all descriptions At UP TO 50% OFF! This is an event that is never to be repeated!

EVERYTHING MUST CO!

SALE ON NOW

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 10:26

CULTURE

inside view TH IS MONTH, PAUL DUNTON TALKS TO US ABOU T THE BEAU T Y OF CHRIS POP E’S PAP ERCU T ART, ON DISPLAY IN T UNBRID GE WELLS

B

ack in 2013, when long time Grey Lady troubadour Chris Pope started work on his first hand-cut papercut armed with nothing other than an idea, a scalpel, and some bloodymindedness, he had no idea where this new journey might lead. After a number of evenings working in secret, he presented his first finished papercut to his partner Helen who had also recently began exploring the world of papercut art. Quite appropriate for a singer/songwriter, this papercut was based on the iconic Tunbridge Wells Forum and featured some original verse incorporated into the design. Long sold now, it became the very first work of the artistic collaboration that was to become Pope & Lawn.

Fast forward to 2017 and the husband and

display, their gallery is the only one of its kind in the South East of England dedicated entirely to the art form of hand-cut papercuts. While you’ll also find a select range of very limited edition prints, the couple’s passion remains very firmly focussed on creating original, individual works of art, as Helen explains.

“In a world where virtually anything can be duplicated or made by a computer or a machine, especially when it comes to art and music, the chance to own something uniquely handmade becomes increasingly rare. Everyone who has one of our originals on their wall knows that they will have the only one that will ever exist.”

While the subject matter of their art is truly diverse, from photorealistic buildings to contemporary conceptual themes including personal commissions, their love of music has remained a consistent theme the couple return to, as Chris explains. “In addition to our first Forum papercut, a number of our earlier works featured local bands who have gone on to great things. For example, we have two remaining signed originals featuring members of The wife team have created three unique Standard Lamps who have just returned from collections of work comprising over 90 touring with The Who, for the second time.” original, one-off papercuts, all entirely cut by He continues, “We’ve also a striking tribute to hand with a scalpel. As well as being on David Bowie, an homage to Marillion, as well display in several local venues, their creations as designs featuring Maxi Jazz and Tom have been exhibited in a number of prestigious Chaplin, formerly of Keane. These latter art events and galleries including the highlypapercuts are based on original photographs we respected Chalk Gallery in Lewes. Several took of the artists and we’re especially delighted have found new homes overseas, as far away as that the finished papercuts have been the US, with one Tunbridge Wells-themed autographed by Maxi and Tom.” papercut now hanging on the wall of the Chris and Helen will be opening wide the Mayor of our twin town of Wiesbaden. Chris doors of their studio/gallery space for one last and Helen are, however, most proud of their time as part of the South East Open Studios Maxi Jazz papercut that has pride of place in before a potential relocation. As well as a warm the home of the legendary front man of the welcome and a cuppa, visitors during the world-famous dance music act, Faithless.

SEOS event, which runs from June 9-25, can You’ll find the majority of their work, in take advantage of the full range of Pope & their studio/gallery space, right here in Lawn originals being available to purchase at Tunbridge Wells. With over 60 originals on specially discounted prices.

 Further information about Pope & Lawn can be found at www.popeandlawn.com. Further information about South East Open Studios can be found at www.seos-art.org SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 31

SO TW_JUNE17_PaulDunton.indd 31

25/05/2017 10:03

PRE-BOOK YOUR TICKETS BLUEBELL RAILWA 0 Mystery Tour

24-25 June Model Railway Weekend 1-2 Jui Croft & Food estivol

KENT

COUN TYSHOW ES T .

7 ,8 ,9 July www.kentshow.co.uk

1 923

0 1622 633060

TrLn·

•-

11-

4

TRINIT Y T HEATRE, CHURCH ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS BOX OFFICE: 01892 678 678 • BOOK ONLINE: trinitytheatre.net

THEATRE

•

MUSIC & DANCE

•

COMEDY

Berliner Philhannoniker

NT Encore: Peter Pan

Comedycafe

Fri 9 Jun • 6.30pm Music On Screen

Sun 11 Jun • 3pm & 7pm Theatre On Screen

Sat 17 Jun • 8pm • £3 Food Offer

An excit ing and diverse programme under the bat on of Gustavo Dudamel.

A delight for ch ildren and adults alike in this wonderously inventive product ion.

The best established and up-andcom ing comedy acts delivered right to your doorstep 1

NT Live: Salome

Local & Live Sessions

Beautiful Boy

Thu 22 Jun • 7pm Theatre On Screen

Sat 24 Jun • 8pm • Music

Fri 30 Jun• 7.30pm • Theatre

The ever-popular Local & Live Sessions; showcasing the very best art ists from Kent and Sussex .

The famous story of John Lennon is known to the wor ld, but what happened be fore he became legendary?

An hypnotic production which is broadcast live from the National Theatre.

32 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p32_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 32

25/05/2017 11:36

Loving the room.

SLIDE ROBES® SLIDE ROB ES . CO . UK

Call 0800 243 312 or go online now to arrange your FREE AT HOME CONSULTATION

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM IN MAIDSTONE 01622 718987 Unit 3C Deacon Trading Estate, Forstal Road, Aylesford, Maidstone, Kent. ME20 7SP

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 10:04

WHATS ON

The People’s Tenor

COMES TO TONBRIDGE RUSSELL WATSON WILL BE HEADLINING A SUMMER PICNIC CONCERT AT TONBRIDGE CASTLE ON JULY 9TH. AHEAD OF HIM TAKING TO THE STAGE AT THIS BEAUTIFUL HISTORIC VENUE, EILEEN LEAHY CAUGHT UP WITH THE SINGING STAR TO FIND OUT WHAT AUDIENCES CAN EXPECT FROM HIS SPECIAL PERFORMANCE AND WHY AFTER TWO DECADES HE STILL REMAINS THE UK’S BEST-SELLING CLASSICAL MUSIC ARTIST Can you tell us a little bit about your forthcoming concert at Tonbridge Castle?

It came through the organisers of the Rye Jazz festival. Now, I don’t really do jazz but I am really looking forward to performing at Tonbridge Castle. The event is a picnic concert so if people want to they can bring along bring a hamper of fine food and a bottle of champagne and just sit there and watch the show.

What can people expect to hear you perform?

We’re going to give a varied repertoire. The evening will conclude with a ‘Best of British’ section which will be full of all favourites such as Land of Hope and Glory, Jerusalem and Swing Low Sweet Chariot. We also include some of the

Italian favourites and some material from my new record True Stories. There’ll also be a little bit of West End Theatre in there too. We’re always inclined to drop a little bit of Phantom of the Opera and Les Misérables. So in short it’ll be a good old mix of songs and essentially lots of uplifting music.

What do you personally enjoy singing?

Well when I’ve got something new then I feel like ‘Oh I can’t wait to sing that and hear how it sounds live with the orchestra’ as opposed to a studio recording. But basically I love singing – I found a vocation that I love. My dad hits the nail on the head when he says ‘So when are you going to get a real job?’ Ha!

You’ve been enormously successful over the past two decades. What do you put your longevity down to?

I’m a driven lunatic – and refuse to be taken down! The music industry is a tough one and as I’ve said all along you’ve got to be more than just a voice to be able to get by. You’ve got to surround yourself with people you trust so most of my family now work for me. My daughter is my personal assistant and travels everywhere with me. My sister is my business manager – and my wife just tells me what to do! There’s an infrastructure of good people around me that I trust. Having a good business mind is also key.

Are you busy at the moment?

Yes I’m all over the place. I’ve done gigs recently at the London Palladium, the Royal Albert Hall and then I’m back into the studio for a new musical I’m working on which will be an arena tour next year. It’s called Heaven on Earth and is a massive spectacular about the story of Adam and Eve and I’m playing the voice of God. It doesn’t get any bigger than that does it? You could say I’ve gone right to the top with that role! There’ll be a running

34 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_RussellWatson.indd 34

25/05/2017 10:29

TONBRIDGE

created over a long time, it’s a slower more intricate development. I’ve written two tunes for the new record True Stories and wow, what a feeling when I sang them for the first time – the audience went nuts! When you’re singing something like Nessun Dorma everyone’s heard it but when you’ve written something and it means something to you personally and you’re singing it on stage it’s a really good feeling and quite cathartic.

Is there anyone in particular you’d like to work with?

There are so many artists out there who are so great. I head something by Jonas Blue the other day and it was a brilliant remake of the old Tracey Chapman track Fast Car. I also really like The Weeknd – as he has a real Michael Jackson sound. As far as duets are concerned Adele would be an obvious choice as she’s got a big gob on her and I have too!

We’d make a good combo – it’d be like the clash of the titans!

waterfall, state of the art animatronics and an incredible sound system to make you feel like you’re encapsulated into the show. It’s pretty amazing. Hugh Maynard of Lion King and Jesus Christ Superstar fame is also in it along with Kerry Ellis who’s the queen of the West End at the moment having starred in shows like Wicked, We Will Rock You and Oliver!

It certainly sounds different to what you do as a day job?

The script is fantastic and the music does have an almost operatic feel to it so there are parallels. But before I tour that next year I’m going to the States to do the annual US military concert in Washington, I’ve also got a duet with Olivia Newton John lined up, some more live dates here in the UK followed by trips to New Zealand and Dubai towards the end of the year. So yeah, life’s good.

What do you love most about your professional life?

Well as I’ve always said I’m lucky to be doing what I enjoy doing and there’s nothing more I

love than walking on stage, when the light hits my face and I hear the response from the audience. It gives me such an incredible buzz - all that adrenalin and the euphoria is a wonderful feeling when I walk off the stage.

What still drives you after two decades of successful performing?

All of the above and I’m just not one to sit at home and stagnate. I have to be out and doing something – even when I’m on holiday. That drive is what got me from a factory floor to being one of the best-selling classical artists in the world and also helped me through the difficult time of being diagnosed with a brain tumour. Don’t ever say ‘no’ to me – it’s a fatal mistake as I’ll just say ‘I’ll show you pal’.

And lastly, your fans – they absolutely love you don’t they?

The relationship between me and them has been organic. Over the years they’ve seen me at Wembley arena playing with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and then seen me get poorly and have to come back. I think they can empathise with the frailties and see me as a real person and not some untouchable star because I do interact with my fans. I like to stay in touch with them and I never say no to an autograph. I love what I do and I think people can see that.

Do you enjoy being in the studio and writing your own material?

I like the creative side of being in the studio.

When you’re performing on stage it’s millisecond by millisecond, you’re delivering your heart and soul, whereas in the studio it’s like building blocks, everything’s layered and

3 To book tickets to Russell Watson’s Summer Picnic Concert at Tonbridge Castle which will also feature Liane Carroll and the Fidelity International choir visit www.ryejazz.com or www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk. Lawn tickets cost £45 with front stage ones priced at £60 SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 35

SO TW_JUNE17_RussellWatson.indd 35

25/05/2017 10:27

_j_

. :f.ENJON

'CfIANDI.. Efl

WISDOM G,,9MMON SENSE TELLS US THAT ( WHEN YOU NEED A DENTIST YOU SHOULD CALL US

l\iI KERL l 1D ~UPPLI • R OF

RADITlON L QUAUTY ' NOL

WE OFFER: Tooth coloured, toxin-free, merc ury free fi llings

I Safe removal of I Bio

mercury amalgams using appropriate clinical precautions

I Oral surgery/gum/periodontal I H ygiene I Extraction free fu ll-face

compatible crowns and bridges treatments

I

lmplantology

I Holistic dentistry I Cosmetic dental I Tooth whitening I Sedation

orthopaedic orthodontics makeovers

"

Gfo oTH 0125~ Si 1726 • candlcs@!'entonchandler.co.uk www.fentonchandler.co.uk

Road I Tunbridge Wells I Kent TN4 9LT Telephone: 01892 518860 I Fax: 01 892 543 167 www.toothfairyholistlc.co.uk

a Chilston

36 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p36_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 36

26/05/2017 09:20

Stainless Steel Dining

F bric Lounge

::E

0

u

cj

~

>

~

Aluminium Dining

Aluminium Lounge

Woven Dining

Woven Lounge

Fabric Lounge

Teak Dining

Teak Lounge

Weber BBQ's

0 0

Q t--'

~

~ ~ t--'

V)

~ ~

t--<

V)

~

~

~

\\'estminster cater for e\¡ery furniture requirement and budget to add elegance and comfort to your outdoor room, also a\'aibble are a large selection of Kadai Ji.re pits and \Yeber BBQ\ & accessories.

Visit in store for expert advice, exclusi\T offers and promotions .

Westminster Outdoor Living, 12-16 London Road, Tunbr idge \\'ells, Kent. T'.\J I 11 )E. Tel: 01892 .524337 Email: shop~11westminsterfurniture.rn.uk .

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 11:23

Thomas a sfi 1

The Family Law Solicitors

At least one decision is taken care of - who to get on your side.

Thomas Mansfield Family Law. Specialist Family Lawyers

Now in evenoaks, Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Maidstone Call now to book an appointment: Tunbridge Wells 01892 578298 or Visit www.tmfamilylaw.co.uk for client feedback and an extensive bank of knowledge on family law

Tactful Mediation I Trusted Managers I Tough Measures I Tactical Masterminds

homa Mansfield Family Law for when Thing Matter

Le <eel ff resolution ~=t-i'!Y~

hfo,,-,,ltyWW

Untitled-69 2

I

"Exce llent"

TRlJSTPILOT

aaaaa

25/05/2017 10:07

THEATRE

NEW SHOWS COMING YOUR WAY When it comes to the best shows in Tunbridge Wells, it’s wise to plan ahead. Here’s our round-up of the best musicals at the Assembly Hall Theatre that will have you humming all the way home…

SHIRLEY VALENTINE

THE WEDDING SINGER

Willy Russell’s heart-warming comedy Shirley Valentine premiered in 1986 and took the world by storm. His plays, including Educating Rita, Blood Brothers, Our Day Out and Shirley Valentine, have been performed across the globe and have won countless awards; they continue to be in constant production throughout the world.

In celebration of its 30th Anniversary the first major revival of this national treasure will embark on a UK tour in 2017.

Shirley Valentine is a play which features just one performer and follows a bored middle-aged housewife, who at the ripe old age of 42 is wondering if life has anything else left to offer. Her kids have left home and she makes chips and egg for her husband while talking to the wall. Where has her life disappeared to? Out of the blue, her best friend offers her a trip to Greece and she secretly packs her bags.

The show stars Jodie Prenger, who is perhaps best known for winning the role of Nancy in the West End production of Oliver following one of the BBC’s search for a star shows.

The bright and breezy musical is based on the 1998 film starring Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore. A high on comedy with outrageously catchy songs, shoulder pads, skinny ties and cummerbund and a set that has such a simplified eighties feel that you can’t help but be taken back in time.

It’s 1985. Rock-star wannabe Robbie Hart ( Jon Robyns, Avenue Q, Legally Blonde) is New Jersey’s favourite wedding singer. When his own fiancée dumps him at the altar a seriously bummed out Robbie makes every wedding as disastrous as his own.

Can sweet natured Julia (Cassie Compton, X Factor) and her best friend Holly (Roxanne Pallett, Emmerdale, Waterloo Road) lure Robbie out of the dumpster and back into the limelight?

Or is he going to see her head off down the aisle with Wall Street bad boy Glen (Ray Quinn, X Factor, Dancing On Ice).

Only Grandma Rosie (Ruth Madoc, Hi-de-Hi! Little Britain) seems to be able to see that Robbie and Julia are the couple that are meant to be.

SON OF A PREACHER Three broken hearts, one Soho hang-out, and the only man who could ever help them…

Welcome to the Preacher Man, the swinging Soho joint where the kids used to dance the night away and dared to dream of love, while the legendary owner, The Preacher Man himself, dispensed advice to cure the loneliest of hearts… until now.

Directed and choreographed by Craig Revel Horwood, Son of a Preacher Man is the sparklingly funny and sweetly touching new musical featuring the greatest hits of Dusty Springfield. So you know just what to do with yourself – book your tickets now!

FLASHDANCE Prepare to be blown away with an astonishing musical spectacle and phenomenal choreography to this iconic score, including the smash hits Maniac, Manhunt, Gloria, I Love Rock & Roll and the award winning title track Flashdance – What a Feeling. Produced by the award winning team at Selladoor Productions – producers of Footloose, Avenue Q and Little Shop of Horrors – and Runaway Entertainmant – producers of In The Heights, Guys and Dolls and Lazarus, Flashdance the Musical is not to be missed!

It tells the inspiring and unforgettable story of 18 year old Alex, a welder by day and ‘flashdancer’ by night, who dreams of going to the prestigious Shipley Dance Academy and becoming a professional dancer. When a romance threatens to complicate her ambitions, can Alex have it all?

★SHIRLEY VALENTINE Mon 3 – Sat 8 July ★THE WEDDING SINGER Tue 5 to Sat 9 September ★SON OF A PREACHER: Wed 21 – Sun 25 June ★FLASHDANCE Mon 13 – Sat 18 November

 Assembly Hall Theatre Box office 01892 530 613 www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 39

SO TW_JUNE17_Theatre.indd 39

25/05/2017 16:10

THE SO MAGAZINE

FESTIVAL GUIDE 2017

From local festivals featuring unsigned bands, to national events with the world’s biggest artists performing, here’s your comprehensive guide to the best festivals on the calendar this summer…

LOCAL June 16th-18th

JOY This isn’t your average local music festival; not only does Joy have a fantastic range of live music, it is also host to a huge range of pop-up shops, food stands, a night market and full of creative activities. Groomsbridge Place is the idyllic setting for this unique festival which is suitable for all ages.

Adult early bird tickets, with camping, start at £80. For more information visit: www.joyfestival.co.uk

June 24th-July 9th

SEVENOAKS SUMMER FESTIVAL

Featuring a whole variety of different musical and theatrical events, the Sevenoaks Summer Festival has something for everyone. Taking place over two weeks across a range of different venues, this festival features acts from Accordare Quartet, the Tommy Cooper Show and The Manfreds. It’s the perfect local event to start off the summer. To see the whole list of events and book your tickets, go to: www.sevenoaksfestival.org.uk

June 30th-July 2nd

June 30th-July 2nd

TENTERTAINMENT

LOVE SUPREME

A perfect event for the whole family, Tentertainment is an annual festival that spans over three days. Set on Tenterden Recreation Ground, the free event features live music from both local and national acts, all weekend. This event is so much more than just music though, with a whole range of different food and drink stands, entertainment and funfair rides for the kids and you can even spend part of the weekend browsing the local produce being sold in the marquees.

Definitely one to mark in your diary! www.tentertainment.co.uk

The ultimate local jazz festival, the Love Supreme Festival is held over three days at the stunning Glynde Place in East Sussex. This year The Jacksons will be headlining the main stage on Saturday, celebrating 50 years of performing. With a further four stages, a fairground, kids area and food village there is certainly enough to keep you entertained all weekend.

To book your tickets go to: www.lovesupremefestival.com

40 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Festival Guide2.indd 40

25/05/2017 09:37

FESTIVAL GUIDE

July 1st

BIG DAY OUT The Big Day Out festival is a day-long event held at Mote Park which is perfect for a family day trip. Now in its second year, the festival is set to be even bigger and better than last year with more children’s entertainment and television characters, arts and crafts areas and a children’s disco and karaoke stage. There’ll also be performances from hit artists and former X Factor stars. But don’t worry, adults won’t miss out – there’s a food of the world village and beer, cider and ale area too.

Tickets are now available at: www.bigdayoutfestival.com

July 14th-15th

July 28th-30th

VICAR’S PICNIC

RAMBLIN’ MAN FAIR

Vicar’s Picnic, also known as ‘Kent’s biggest little music festival’ is returning to the Lees in Yalding again this year. The festival is known for having acts from a whole range of genres and indie-rock band The Fratellis will be headlining the main stage this year. The festival will be home to two stages, a DJ tent and there is also the opportunity to camp there. However, it’s not all about the music here, there is also an amazing range of entertainment, gourmet foods, cocktails and ales.

Tickets available at: www.vicarspicnic.co.uk

Mote Park will also be hosting another festival this month with the rock festival, Ramblin’ Man Fair, returning for its third year. So far headline performances from Saxon, Extreme and ZZ Top have been confirmed as well as a beer festival running alongside the live music performances. Created for rock fans by rock fans, this isn’t one to miss.Weekend tickets £150. For details and to book: www.ramblinmanfair.com

August 4th-6th

MARGATE SOUL FESTIVAL One of the biggest soul music festivals in the UK, the Margate Soul Festival is set right next to the beach, in and around Margate’s Harbour and Promenade. There is expected to be over 50 DJs performing on two stages and seven themed venues; it will be a combination of ticketed live shows, family friendly street performances as well as club nightlife. A weekend ticket is £66 and can be purchased from: www.margatesoulfestival.co.uk SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 41

SO TW_JUNE17_Festival Guide2.indd 41

25/05/2017 09:38

SARAH POOK

FESTIVAL GUIDE

August 10th-12th

LEEFEST PRESENTS: THE NEVERLAND

Known as the mini Glastonbury, Leefest is located right on our doorsteps at Edenbridge.

With sought after acts such as Annie Mac and Jake Bugg headlining this year, it’s hard to believe that a mere ten years ago this huge local festival was based in the founder’s back garden. There are three different themes to participate in – Lost Boys, Mermaids and Pirates – and there’s also theatre, comedy and a walkabout performance. For more information and tickets go to: www.leefest.org

August 11th-18th

August 25th-27th

BROADSTAIRS FOLK WEEK

LOCAL AND LIVE

Get ready for the seaside town of Broadstairs to come alive with the return of the Folk Week. With over 70 different events each day – ranging from workshops and music performances to arts and crafts, the venues are held all over town with the concert marquee being home to the headline acts. If just listening to folk music isn’t all you’re after, why not attend one of the workshops and learn to play or how to dance to it instead?

For a full list of activities and their venues visit: www.broadstairsfolkweek.org.uk

After a smaller than usual event last year, Local and Live will be returning to its former size this year, with Calverley Grounds already being booked for the festival. With over 20,000 people attending in previous years, it is one of the largest events in Tunbridge Wells all year and displays some of the best local, fresh talent around Kent. www.localandlive.org

September 1st-2nd

IN THE WOODS What started out, a mere ten years ago, as just a ‘party in the woods’the In the Woods festival has blossomed into something much bigger. The location of the festival is kept secret right up until the date of the event but rest assured that it will be a perfect fit for the whole vibe and ethos of the festival. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy undiscovered music, art, short films, theatre, literature, amazing local ales and food. The likes of Jack Garratt, Kate Tempest and Slaves have all had their own set at this intimate festival, before they made it to the big time. www.inthewoodsfestival.co.uk

42 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Festival Guide2.indd 42

25/05/2017 09:38

FESTIVAL GUIDE

GLOSS ECHO

NATIONAL

June 2nd-4th

WYCHWOOD FESTIVAL

CALLUM BAKER

Having been running for 12 years, it is safe to say that the Wychwood Festival is a firm family friendly favourite event. With some of the best indie music being performed, literature readings, comedy performances, children’s entertainment plus a number of workshops available, this festival really does have something for everyone. Located in Cheltenham Racecourse, weekend tickets including camping start at £130. Visit www.wychwoodfestival.com for more details.

June 8th-11th

June 10th-11th

June 30th-July 2nd

ISLE OF WIGHT

PARKLIFE FESTIVAL

ALSO FESTIVAL

A festival for ‘real music lovers of all ages’, Isle of Wight is Festival famed for its mix of old and new acts. Each year it’s the first major festival to kick off the UK’s summer events and this year’s acts do not disappoint with David Guetta, Run DMC, Rod Stewart and Arcade Fire headlining. It’s also known for being a more ‘family-friendly’ festival with family camping available and family areas throughout the arenas. Weekend tickets (including camping) are £195 and can be purchased at: www.isleofwightfestival.com

Parklife is Manchester’s biggest independent music festival and is famed for featuring a diverse range of different genres within their line up. Even though it is one of the newer festivals on the scene, the line up this year is pretty impressive including Fatboy Slim, Frank Ocean, The 1975 and Stormzy.

But it’s not only music that will be filling up Heaton Park, the festival also includes dance and theatre performances, comedy sketches and magicians.

Weekend tickets start at £130 and can be purchased at: www.parklife.uk.com

‘A small festival with big ideas’, Also Festival uses a series of immersive talks and experiences to explore different ideas produced from art, science, psychology and philosophy. Located in Warwickshire, the festival hosts creative workshops alongside talks by leading thinkers, music from undiscovered and rising singers, dozens of wildlife inspired activities and a huge selection of quality food and alcohol. If you’re looking for a more relaxed and intellectual vibe this festival season this is definitely one for you. www.also-festival.com/entertainment SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 43

SO TW_JUNE17_Festival Guide2.indd 43

25/05/2017 09:38

LATITUDE

FESTIVAL GUIDE

July 13th-16th

LATITUDE

TIM BORROW

MARC DE GROOT

Celebrating the best aspects of music, film, poetry and culture, Latitude has so much to offer its festival customers. Each year a new element is added to the event, which is held at Henham Park in Suffolk, including a sit-down restaurant, yoga, whirlpool baths and the opportunity to swim in the park’s lake. The festival also has specific areas for films, comedy, theatre productions, dance performances and literary and poetry readings. This year’s music headlines include Fatboy Slim, The 1975, Mumford and Sons as well as comedy acts from Katherine Ryan and Joel Dommett. For the full line up as well as tickets go to: www.latitudefestival.com

August 9th-13th

August 19th-20th

BOARDMASTERS

V FESTIVAL

Could there be a better setting for a festival than the Cornish coast? Not only does Boardmasters offer you live music performances from some of the hottest acts, you also get the opportunity to take full advantage of the location with one of the biggest surfing competitions being held alongside the music. However, you don’t just have to spectate, there is the chance for you to don your wetsuit and get in the water too with the surf lessons offered by the organisers. And you can’t beat the music either, with performances confirmed from Two Door Cinema Club, Jamiroquai, Gorgon City and Lethal Bizzle, to name a few.

For more information on either the surfing or the music visit: www.boardmasters.co.uk

Famed for constantly having some of the biggest current artists perform at the festival, once again V Festival, at Hylands Park, Chelmsford, doesn’t disappoint. Jay-Z, P!NK, Craig David, Ellie Goulding and Rudimental are just some of music’s biggest names to be attending this year.

Held during late August, conditions for camping are ideal or if you are visiting for the day there are also comedy acts, a fairground and plenty of food stalls to keep you entertained whist you wait for the music. Weekend tickets start at £189, to book or to see a full line up see: www.vfestival.com

August 24th-27th

CREAMFIELDS

Highlight of the UK dance scene, Creamfields is based in Liverpool and features some of the biggest names in dance music playing at the event each year. Created from the organisers who started Liverpool superclub Creams, it now has spin-off festivals from Ibiza to New Zealand. This year sees Philip George, Midnight City, Sigma, Annie Mac and Duke Dumont playing as well as a huge range of other big names in the dance genre. The festival also sticks to its roots by having a selection of local acts making their debuts. Standard four day camping tickets start at £220 and can be booked at: www.creamfields.com

44 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Festival Guide2.indd 44

25/05/2017 09:38

JEN O’NEIL

CAROLINA FARUOLO

FESTIVAL GUIDE

August 25th-27th

August 25th-27th

September 7th-10th

VICTORIOUS FESTIVAL

READING FESTIVAL

BESTIVAL

The UK’s biggest metropolitan festival, Victorious, is returning to Portsmouth this year. It’s an amazing family friendly experience, with live performances from the likes of Madness, Sterephonics, Rita Ora and Jake Bugg, alongside a huge kids playing area, market stalls selling a range of homemade products and fresh food and ale. Visit www.victoriousfestival.co.uk for the full details and to book your tickets.

One of the world’s oldest and most popular music festivals, Reading Festival, is the perfect blend of rock, indie and current music genres. This year is set to be one of its biggest, with rap legend Eminem making a rare UK appearance alongside Kasabian, Muse and Bastille. In addition to the huge acts performing, there is a comedy stage, silent disco, fairground rides and a large range of food stalls all set in Richfield Avenue, Reading.

Weekend tickets start at £213 and can be booked at: www.readingfestival.com

The award winning Bestival returns to the Lulworth Estate, Dorset, this summer as one of the final summertime events on the festival calendar. Each year the boutique music festival aims to ‘change the face of independent festival culture’ by pairing a selective music line-up with a whole host of visual effects such as the Bollywood Tent, boutique campsite and even a landlocked port. Some of the acts specifically chosen for this year are: MNEK, Dizzee Rascal, Jamie T and Twin Atlantic. Go to www.bestival.net for tickets and further information.

September 30th

UNDERBELLY FESTIVAL Running for the whole summer, up until the end of September, Underbelly Festival has merged the London Wonderground and Udderbelly festivals into one huge event. Located in the same festival location, Hungerford Car Park near London’s South Bank (Jubilee Gardens), this huge multi-arts event features a whole range of acts such as music performances, circus troupe Casus, comedy performances, cabaret shows all alongside one of the largest outdoor bars in the capital.

Tickets are now available at: www.underbellyfestival.com

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 45

SO TW_JUNE17_Festival Guide2.indd 45

25/05/2017 09:38

the insider’s gig guide

From home truths to hanging out with celebrities, here’s a fun guide for you to keep with you when you’re having the time of your life at a festival this summer…

CELEBRITIES YOU’LL ALWAYS SPOT AT A FESTIVAL

Do they just live backstage? Maybe…

ALEXA CHUNG

We think she hibernates over the winter months so she can conserve her energy, ready to attend every festival over summer.

KATE MOSS

We wouldn’t have festival fashion if she wasn’t our muse…

NICK GRIMSHAW

If a festival took place but the Radio 1 DJ wasn’t there, did it really happen?

ONE OF THE KARDASHIAN/JENNER CLAN

Although, usually they shy away from the muddier festivals and opt for the likes of Coachella instead…

DAISY LOWE

We’re not sure whether her CV reads ‘model’ or ‘professional full time festival-goer’.

MUSIC MUSINGS

20 thoughts that go through your mind at a festival 1. Wow this is awesome!

2. I’m regretting these shorts. I forgot this is British summer time.

3. Ooh, a range of craft beers. How nice!

4. How much for a beer?!

5. I’ll wait until a band I don’t like is on before I queue for the toilet.

6. I’ve been queuing for the toilet so long I’m missing my favourite band.

7. Live music is the best.

8. Has music always been this loud?

9. I feel so young and alive!

10. Those people over there only look about 12. I feel so old.

11. Is buying a burger and a box of noodles greedy or good planning?

12. Ahhh I love being part of a crowd.

13. This crowd is massive. I’ve lost my friends/family/dog/mind.

14. I wonder if your skin can overdose on hand sanitizer?

15. People who bring banners to festivals should be banned.

16. Ditto people who bring deck chairs.

17. I fancy a sit down. I wish I had a deck chair.

18. This is the best day of my life.

19. Encore! Encore! Encore! I never want to leave!

20. I’m so glad to be home.

TALK THE TALK

The bluffer’s guide to getting into the VIP area* (*don’t blame us if you get escorted off the premises) ACT LIKE YOU BELONG

Put away the selfie stick and autograph book for starters.

Maybe nod at people who look important as if you know them vaguely.

WEAR WHITE

VIP’s don’t have to wash with baby wipes like us

commoners, so they can get away with wearing colours we can’t.

THROW SOME NAMES AROUND

“Oh, I’m here with David Richards from DR Productions.” If you’re really keen, take some business

cards with you to really emphasise your importance.

DON’T GET TOO EXCITED ABOUT THE FREE DRINKS

If you get into the VIP area, don’t keep exclaiming how brilliant it is you’re not having to pay a tenner for a G&T. Also, don’t drink too many

tipples. You’ll definitely be escorted out if you vomit on a band member.

DON’T SPEND TOO LONG IN THE TOILET

Yes, they’re fancy, but no, you don’t need to try all the soaps and steal the hand towels for “emergencies”.

46 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_FestivalFeature.indd 46

25/05/2017 16:13

ru 11 V/-\L GUIDE \JUIU[ FESTIVAL

IIIIFIIIIE FESTIVAL IIIIF, FASHION

Ho to pack for How every eve eventuality BACK BACK IT IT UP UP

DITCH THE DENIM ft1Tr11 Tllr ftrt.111111

Even if you live in jeans, consider alternatives for a festival – a dress, leggings, shorts or even a jumpsuit make good alternatives and are less likely to make you swelter in the heat or absorb water if it rains.

M&S tiered long sleeve yellow dress, £49.50 www.marksandspencer.com www.marksandspencer.com

Vn,/11 u,..,.n++n -l-"'\l,n ,...,,..,...,4-h;nr, .f.,.nm "'\ h"'\-I- "'\nr.l r,,n rll'n"'\m You’ll want to take everything from a hat and sun cream to a picnic and waterproof clothing with you, and sadly, a celebrity-esque bag you can barely fit your phone in won’t house the essentials. Thankfully, backpacks are now a fashion must-have and are the easiest way to take everything you need around with you.

Michael Kors Silver Backpack, £315 www.houseoffraser.co.uk

SOCK IT

There’s nothing worse than having cold or wet feet. If you’re not blessed with sun, pack a few pairs of socks.

Even if your shoes or boots get wet, a dry pair of socks will make all the difference.

Dubarry alpaca socks, £35 www.dubarryboots.com

I AVFRIN(, IS 1c; KEY KFV LAYERING

At UK festivals especially, the weather can be very interchangeable, so make sure to have something warm for when the sun goes down, even if you’re blessed with a hot day.

Wearing a shirt or cardigan over a vest top or t-shirt is an easy way to layer up without the hassle of taking a jumper on and off every time the sun hides behind a cloud.

Next striped cardigan, £42 www.next.co.uk

STYLE IT OUT WITH SUNNIES

It doesn’t matter whether it’s raining or sunny, protect your eyes from the elements and bright festival lights with a great pair of sunglasses.

Plus, they’ll be useful to shield tired eyes post-festival too…

Ray Ban sunglasses, £150 www.sunglasses-shop.co.uk SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 47

SO TW_JUNE17_FestivalFeature.indd 47

25/05/2017 16:14

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

DAD’S DAY OUT W E LO O K AT S O M E O F T H E B ES T WAY S TO EN H A N C E YO U R H O M E A N D LI F ES T Y LE T H I S M O N T H

BEWL WATER The ideal way to give something back to dad, the Austin 7 Rally returns to Bewl Water on June 18. A great chance to see some of the finest examples of motoring classics from across the South, the event is also an opportunity to hunt for spare parts at Bewl

Water’s auto jumble. Make a day of it and treat dad to lunch in the Boathouse Bistro or the Waterfront Café and enjoy a trip out on the water with the Bewl Belle.

Parking is just £2 and entry to the rally is free for all. www.bewlwater.co.uk

SALOMONS ESTATE Treat dad this Father’s Day to an event the whole family can enjoy! Tuck in to a delicious burger or hog roast from the Salomon’s BBQ and enjoy a refreshing beer on the terrace whilst listening to the live music. Plenty for all to enjoy – activities for the day will include archery, a bouncy castle, mini beer festival and a variety of lawn games. All activities, including food, will be available throughout the day, from 12pm to 4pm at a small charge. Lawn games and penalty shootout are free.

Don’t miss out – free pint of ale for all dads!

Booking is not required, but please register interest online at www.salomons-estate.co.uk 48 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Commercial_FathersDay.indd 48

25/05/2017 09:25

FATHERS DAY

HEVER CASTLE Hever Castle & Gardens has teamed up with the Henry Surtees Foundation for a Super Car themed day out to say thank you to dad.

There will be classic cars and bikes on display as well as fun activities for the kids over the weekend of June 17 and 18.

Children can decorate a card for their dad in a free craft workshop and test out the kart simulator for a race around Buckmore Park with a prize for the fastest lap* (*small donation required).

On Saturday ( June 17) they can get a snap of their dad in a Ferrari* (*small donation required) and admire over 50 Alfa Romeos.

On Sunday ( June 18) appreciate a spectacular collection of Ferraris and peruse cars and bikes from the late John Surtees’ collection along with prints, clothing and other merchandise. For full details go to www.hevercastle.co.uk/whats-on

ONE WARWICK PARK Take dad to relive his youth at One Warwick Park this year, as the hotel give away a complimentary limited edition 70th anniversary set of Subbuteo’s table-top collectables. Seventy years after its invention, what better way to treat Dad than with an overnight stay in a deluxe room over the Father’s Day weekend with the additional gift from his childhood?

Priced at £149, bookings and enquiries can be made at www.onewarwickpark.co.uk using code FATHER’S DAY. Alternatively, treat dad to a Sunday roast in the One Warwick Park restaurant for just £15.95 per person.

01892 520 587 info@onewarwickpark.co.uk

SO Magazine / JUNE 17 / 49

SO TW_JUNE17_Commercial_FathersDay.indd 49

25/05/2017 09:26

Included in your annual ticket to The Historic Dockyard Chatham

thedockyard.co.uk

THE HISTORIC.

DOCKYARD

CHATHAM

50 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p50_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 50

25/05/2017 11:56

HOME TRUTHS

that’s SO...

IT JUST WOULDN’T HAPPEN ANY WHERE ELSE

WEALDEN



Feeling angry every time you see another abandoned trolley in Tenterden Tesco car park…but not so angry you’ll actually move it.

SEVENOAKS

WEALDEN





Visiting one of the local castles and struggling to remember that you’re not actually royalty…

Joining a local book club in the hopes the meet-ups will mostly be spent drinking wine rather than discussing literature.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

SEVENOAKS





Organising a party and assuming that if you tweet a famous singer he’ll pop in and perform, mid world tour.

Telling your friends you’ve joined the local running club. You haven’t actually joined, but you did look them up online, which is essentially the same thing…

WEALDEN

TUNBRIDGE WELLS





Finding you spend more time voting for what music plays in your local public toilets than you spend deciding who to vote for in the general election.

Being delayed at the station because there’s a pheasant on the line.

Have you got something that you think is just so? Email your suggestions to cbond@onemediauk.co.uk SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 51

SO TW_JUNE17_ThatsSo.indd 51

25/05/2017 11:01

St Julians Club t..//N exCLUSIVE PRIVATE <.:MEMBERS' CLUB A secrer hideaway in the Weald of Kent,

r Julians is an elegant Georgian country house just outside of Sevenoaks. Surrounded by woodland and landscaped gardens with breath-caking views across the rolling countryside, Sc Julians is an exceptional venue for your evenc.

Our beautiful lisced rooms leading to a Aagscone terrace are the perfect setting for music and drinks. St Julians suits dinner parries, cbaricy balls and informal birthday parcies of 10 co J 50.

We still have dates available in 201 7 - gee in touch with us to discuss availabiliry and prices, or visit our website for further information.

lA UN!f2!JE VE?{yE 'BESPOKE PLANNING & EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

IN A UNPARALLELED SETTING 01732 458261 • INFO@STJULIANS.CO.UK • WWW.S1JULl.A1 S.CO.UK 52 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p52_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 52

25/05/2017 11:40

MY RANT

the GENERATION GAME E D WA R D F R O M S O U T H B O R O U G H W O N D E R S W H Y O N LY W O M E N A R E B O R N W I T H T H E PA R E N T I N G G E N E .

P

icture this; three men are sitting in the food court of RVP’s shopping centre. Two of them have clothes that are paint splattered, their boots have reinforced toes and they are both adorned with a faint layer of plaster dust. Their friend sits with them – he has joined them for lunch – they might know each other from work, he may be in a similar trade, but today he has swapped his plastering trowel for the pram by his side.

As they chat, he stands to readjust the blankets around his baby and gently rocks the cot. Is this a strange image? It shouldn’t be. I dare say it wouldn’t have even captured my attention had I not already been in the midst of writing this letter. But as you walk past all the Father’s Day merchandise in shops this month, the cards paint a very different picture of what fatherhood looks like. As you run your eyes down the aisle, a narrative begins to form; ‘If in doubt, ask your

mother’, ‘Be a bad parent – They’ll move out sooner’, ‘Everything I learned from life I learned from beer’. Not very complimentary. I understand these are supposed to be an attempt at humour, and these lazy efforts at swaying the consumer’s purse strings are not the end of the world. Truth be told, I’ve seen worse instances of perpetuating the incompetent dad stereotype, but the reason I’m so bent out of shape about this is because it’s a small problem that’s indicative of a much larger issue.

On one hand, dads are being told how important involved fatherhood is – besides just having a better relationship with your children – social awareness is steadily eroding the ‘bread-winningbacon-bearing’ father stereotype as we seek to mirror the multicultural and single-sex families that we encounter every day. In similar fashion, the now outdated stereotype of the stay-at-home

mum has given way to the understanding that working mums make our kids and our society better off than before. So why hasn’t culture tried to do the same with the father figure – only in reverse? Instead of encouraging dads, the industry is branding them incompetent babysitters or just another big kid to handle.

When this all too familiar message is spread, it simultaneously disinvites fathers from the parenting conversation and perpetuates sexist views about their female partners. It narrows their place and their contribution. Instead of being considered capable, men are being placed in a position of submissive duty, simply following their wives’ childcare directives and becoming little more than the equivalent of hired help.

Unless we are being kept in the dark about the cheat sheet that is hard wired into the XX chromosomes, then mothers must be just as clueless as the rest of us. There are no standards, and it is possible that there never will be again – we are all just groping about in the sleep-deprived haze that is parenthood and then lying about it afterwards. And when I take the time to sit back and notice parents and the way these fathers care for their children, wipe off sticky fingers after snack time, kerb the tantrums and tuck in the blankets, it becomes evident that they are no more or less prepared than anybody else.

So this year, when my kids are reaching for the Father’s Day cards on the shelves, I hope they stop. I hope they take a moment to remember all the lifts to school, the piles of laundry, the late nights spent waiting up for them to call to be picked up from a party, and I hope they forget the cards and pick up some very strong coffee instead…

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.

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 53

SO TW_JUNE17_MyRant.indd 53

25/05/2017 10:01

LUXURY

f o S

E IR

T C JE

OB

BE

C

S E D

S AU

IF E L

TO E’S

O S

O T T NO T R HO

AP

PR

IN E F H E T I AT EC

ER

T

G HIN

S...

Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo

Feel like an Emperor, adorning the so-called “Bao Dai” reference 6062 watch. As something of a legend amongst Rolex enthusiasts, this timepiece was once owned by Bao Dai, the final emperor of Vietnam, the last member of the great Nguyen Dynasty and the last ruling family of the nation. In fact, it may very well be the most legendary Rolex, full stop. Originally sold at auction in November of 2002 for approximately £181,655, it was then the most expensive Rolex ever sold at auction. How times have changed. Recently captivating the saleroom once again during The Genva Watch Auction: Fivew, the “Bao Dai” ignited a bidding war, eventually selling for a staggering £3.92 million, far surpassing its previous record and leaving more than a few would-be collectors sorely jealous.

54 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Objects_of_Desire.indd 54

25/05/2017 10:01

Live

SUBJECT

like a Maharaja with this never-done-before tour of India, enabling couples to spend time with Indian Royalty and experience the regal lifestyle in India’s most splendid palaces and destinations for £66,640.

Exclusive to VeryFirstTo and organised by Epic India Travel, who have curated this ultimate trip with exclusive access and privileged private tours, this exceptional excursion allows you to experience the rich cultural tapestry of India and an unprecedented itinerary featuring meetings with Indian Royals in four separate locations. With spa treatments, high tea at the Taj Mahal, a bush dinner on the desert dunes of Jodhpur and a royal procession astride elephants also included, we can’t think of a better way to spend a week as a king.

On some of the world’s most rarefied bottled water. But what sets apart an £80 bottle of water from that which runs www.veryfirstto.com out of your tap? More than just the award-winning bottle, brand and packaging design from Svalbarði polar iceberg water – Svalbarði is harvested from icebergs freshly carved off glaciers in the remote polar region of the Svalbard archipelago before they melt away and are lost forever. The pristine ice is thousands of years old and produces water so pure it is almost mineral free. Svalbarði is harvested twice a year and produced as a limited edition for the international luxury market. Due to the difficulty of harvesting, iceberg waters are some of the rarest in the world and Svalbarði is recognized by the Fine Water Society as the world’s best tasting super low mineral water.

Sip

www.svalbardi.com

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 55

SO TW_JUNE17_Objects_of_Desire.indd 55

25/05/2017 10:02

Q

!~

SSANGYONG

Alfih.alNI fvenl

ERIDGE HORSE TRIALS & COUNTRY MARKET 15th & 16th July 2017 Gates Open at 08:30 Both Days Eridge Park Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 9JT

SATURDAY & SUNDAY

COUNTRY MARKET Trade Stands - Country Brocante & Gifts - Food Stalls Children’s Inflatable Area - Licensed Bar ADMISSION ONLY (Includes all passengers) £10 PER CAR - SATURDAY £15 PER CAR - SUNDAY (Sunday’s dog show competitors will receive a voucher per car for up to 5 free dog class entries )

www.eridge-horsetrials.co.uk

EridgeHorse_FullPage.indd 1

SATURDAY

‘CARS IN THE PARK’ CLASSIC & VINTAGE CARS (Registration and details at www.eridge-horsetrials.co.uk)

SUNDAY ONLY

‘DOGS IN THE PARK’

TERRIER RACING & FALCONRY DISPLAY (Entries on the day) Fun Dog Show - Fun Dog Agility - Dog Displays Distraction Alley

Terrier Racing ‘The Southern Bone Championships’ - Open to all

26/05/2017 15:56

CELEBRITY

THE PRINCE

&

THE PHILANTHROPIST WHY THERE’S MORE TO MEGHAN MARKLE THAN HER PRINCE CHARMING…

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 57

SO TW_JUNE17_CoverStory_MeghanFINAL.indd 57

25/05/2017 09:35

CELEBRITY

t’s hard to remember a time when Meghan Markle wasn’t in the news – when her latest hairstyle wasn’t scrutinised over being a ‘Kate copy’; when every day the headlines weren’t rife with royal engagement rumours. But, since it was revealed last November that Prince Harry was dating 35 year old American actress Meghan Markle, the star became a household name almost overnight. In fact, so intrigued were the public by the lady who’d captured the prince’s heart, she became the most googled actress of last year, beating the likes of Jennifer Lawrence in the process.

But, who is the mysterious Ms Markle? We take a look at the life of the rising star, who could one day be a royal too…

THE ACTRESS Having grown up around showbusiness (Meghan’s father was director of photography on American TV series Married with Children), it seemed fitting that Meghan would become an actress.

BE

After studying theatre and international relations at Northwestern University School of Communication, she actually began working for the US Embassy in Buenos Aires.

However, she was approached by someone who wanted to represent her as an actress, and feeling homesick she took the opportunity to move back to LA and explore her options.

Her first role was in General Hospital, followed by parts in 90210, Fringe and Remember Me, starring Robert Pattinson. Then, in 2011 she was cast as Rachel Zane in Suits – an American legal drama comedy series which is now in its seventh season. Megan has previously described landing the role in Suits as: “One of the best days of my life”, and although rumours have been rife that this will be her last series so she can relocate to London to be with Prince Harry, so far she’s remained tight-lipped on whether she’ll be hanging up her suit jacket.

THE ROYAL GIRLFRIEND It’s understood that Prince Harry and Meghan met last May while he was in Toronto to promote the Invictus Games, an international athletic competition for wounded or sick military veterans, and she was filming Suits. The pair managed to keep their romance under wraps for several months, with Harry even being introduced to her father before their relationship was revealed.

In October 2016 the press began to speculate over their

EVERY OF IT.

3/

THE HUMANITARIAN From a young age, Meghan was aware of injustice and wanted to have a voice. At age 11, she wrote a letter to then First Lady Hillary Clinton and other high-profile figures complaining that a soap advertisement implied women

WORK FOR A

HERE'S TO

WITH YOUR LIFE.

relationship, and in November, the palace took the unusual decision to release a royal statement confirming the pair were a couple, after Meghan began receiving abuse and harassment.

“It is not right that a few months into a relationship with him that Ms Markle should be subjected to such a storm. He knows commentators will say this is ‘the price she has to pay’ and that ‘this is all part of the game’.

He strongly disagrees. This is not a game – it is her life and his.”

Since the official confirmation, there has been intense public interest surrounding the pair, and speculation over whether Harry will be asking the star to marry him in the near future. Bookies recently suspended bets on a proposal and Meghan has notably begun to wind down her own commitments; previously an ambassador for Canadian clothing brand Reitmans, she’s stepped down, and she’s also called time on her lifestyle website The Tig. Last month, Meghan accompanied Harry to Pippa Middleton’s wedding reception – their first official outing together since their relationship began a year ago.

NOT FOR

MAY WE MAY WE MAY WE

3/

belonged in the kitchen – the soap’s manufacturer was forced to alter the advertisement after her complaint.

After writing on The Tig about female empowerment, Meghan was approached by UN women, and subsequently became an official advocate for the UN’s Women’s Political Participation and Leadership programme. A role as a Global Ambassador for World Vision soon followed, under the One Young World initiative, which celebrates young adults speaking out against human rights violations, environmental crises, inequality and injustice.

“I’ve never wanted to be a lady who lunches – I’ve always wanted to be a woman who works,” she wrote on The Tig. “And this type of work is what feeds my soul and fuels my purpose. The degree to which I can do that both on and off camera is a direct perk of my job.”

THE WRITER In 2014, Meghan founded lifestyle website The Tig – a blog dedicated to fashion, food, beauty and travel.

It was a concept she came up with due to her love of travel. Explaining the concept behind the site, which she labelled her “passion project”, at the time she said: “I have always loved food and travel, especially with my mom being a travel agent. We would go to off-the-beaten path places (Oaxaca, before it was cool to take a molé cooking class there, small parishes in Jamaica, etc.). In the past few years, my access to fashion and beauty has broadened, and I have started to understand things in a different way. That feeling of

HOW PEOPLE YOU IS

LIVE LIFE TO

KARMA; HOW YOU

NOTTO

IS

3/

3/

58 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_CoverStory_MeghanFINAL.indd 58

25/05/2017 09:35

SUBJECT

To all my T,g friends After close to three beautiful years on this adventure with you, it's time to say goodbye to The Tig. What began as a passion project (my little engine that could) evolved into an amazing community of inspiration, support, fun and frivolity. You·ve made my days brighter and filled this experience with so much joy. Keep finding those Tig moments of discovery, keep laughing and taking risks, and keep being "the change you wish to see in the world."

Above all, don·t ever forget your worth - as rve told you time and time again: you, my sweet friend, you are enough.

Thank you for everything.

Xx

‘Oh…right, so 'Oh ... right, so clothes aren' clothes aren’ just fabric, fabric just 'Ri1,ht. II get art ·'O thev're art.’ they’re Or: that it.' that !!et it, r: ‘Right, a finishing salt will brighten a dish better than Kosher salt.’ All of those aha moments came to me around the same time, and I felt an impulse to share them.”

For three years the site continued to be a source of inspiration for many, as Meghan shared hints and tips, as well as giving followers an insight into her life. However, in April this year she released a statement, thanking her followers for the past three years but explaining that she was calling it a day. Although no official reason for the sudden departure has been given, it’s been reported that this is

THE DOESN'T OF THE BEE.

IT THE BEE

something Meghan has done in order to prepare for life as a royal, where her private life will remain much more private.

Aside from her former “passion project,” Meghan has also written for other publications on topics she feels strongly on. She’s written for Elle UK about finding her voice as a mixed race woman and in March, she wrote a piece for Time about her travels to Delhi and Mumbai with World Vision where she met girls and women directly impacted by the stigmatization of menstrual health and learned how it hinders girls’ education.

DID YOU KNOW? Meghan’s real name is Rachel, Meghan is her middle name.

She’s been married before – in 2011 she married American film and television producer Trevor Engelson, whom she dated from 2004. The couple divorced in 2013.

Following the news that she and Prince Harry were an item, she became the most googled actress of 2016.

She used to be a freelance calligrapher, and even did the calligraphy on singer Robin Thicke’s wedding invitations.

She has two dogs, named Bogart and Guy. Meghan was crowned homecoming queen during her time at high school.

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 59

SO TW_JUNE17_CoverStory_MeghanFINAL.indd 59

25/05/2017 09:35

The new luxury fragrance range from The Chapel, now available in our salons and online. www.thechapel.co.uk

Untitled-69 2

THE¡CHAPEL

25/05/2017 10:11

THE LOOK

INVESTMENT

Piece

B E C A U S E R E A L LY I T ’ S M O R E A C A S E O F N E E D T H A N WA N T …

Available in three shades, these MacFlexx men’s jeans are a stylish wardrobe staple this spring. Macflexx jeans, £130 available from The Basement in Tunbridge Wells

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 61

SO TW_JUNE17_TheLook_Cover.indd 61

25/05/2017 11:02

Bella Vou is thrilled to welcome Sue Mitchell, an expert in non-surgical aesthetic and beauty treatments who joins our growing team as an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner.

Treatment

Prices from

Thread Vein Treatments

£175

Anti-Wrinkle Injections

£195

, 1;:~;R::~~lr?~~~tl With.Bella Vou Rewards' . ... . wou r third treatmentis : ' always complimentary '":.~·,.-:-

Facial Peels

£195

Dermal Fillers

£235

I

PECIAL OFFER 25%0FF INJECTABLE TREATMENTS DURING MAY &J NE

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 10:11

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

REAR OF THE YEAR Want a brilliant behind in time for the bikini season ahead?

The good news is you don’t need to squat your way to a better bottom…

M

ore than 320,000 buttock augmentation procedures are performed globally each year and now the craze seems set to take the UK by storm. But, what’s the difference between a Brazilian butt lift and a buttock implant?

As increasing numbers of women turn to surgery to achieve the perfect derriere, a top cosmetic surgeon explains the various procedures available to patients.

Amir Nakhdjevani, a Harley Street-trained cosmetic surgeon at the private Bella Vou clinic in Tunbridge Wells, has seen a significant increase in enquiries for ‘butt lifts’ over the past 12 months.

“It’s clear that buttock augmentation surgery is a growing trend among cosmetic surgery clients in the UK,” Mr Nakhdjevani says. “Before you spend your hard-earned booty on a procedure to boost your bottom, it’s important to know what options are open to you.”

WHAT IS A BUTT LIFT? ‘Butt lifts’ are intended to improve the appearance of the buttocks, either by restoring the size, shape and volume of the buttocks, or by reducing the appearance of sagging skin. The procedure aims to correct a patient’s physical proportions, or simply to enhance their bottom and help boost their self-confidence.

TYPES OF BUTT LIFT There are two basic types of butt lift surgery.

In the traditional procedure, the surgeon lifts the buttocks by removing excess skin, fat and tissue, pulling the skin taut and repositioning it for a lighter, younger look. The less invasive ‘Brazilian butt lift’ requires only very minor incisions and a fat transfer. Each of these procedures has its own benefits and disadvantages, so the type you choose will be depend on your unique needs and wishes.

TRADITIONAL BUTT LIFT PROCEDURES During this procedure, your surgeon will make an incision into the buttock to manually remove thin layers of fat, tissue, and skin. He or she may also tighten the underlying muscles and create sutures to hold the buttocks in a lifted position.

There are four basic types of traditional butt lift procedures, based on the incision the surgeon makes to correct sagging skin:  An upper butt lift is a more intensive

surgery. During this procedure, the surgeon will make an incision across the contours at the top of the buttocks. They will then use this to access the underlying tissue, removing or repositioning any excess for a more attractive appearance.  In a lower butt lift, tissue is removed from the bottom of the buttocks to lift the bottom crease of a patient’s buttocks upward. This approach is suitable for candidates that only suffer from mild to moderate sagging.  The “butterfly” butt lift is named for the incision the plastic surgeon makes from the central crease of the buttock up and outward.

This type of surgery can tighten sagging tissue, but does not typically reposition or lift the buttocks.  With a lateral incision butt lift, incisions are made on either side of each buttock. This technique can be used to limit scarring and reduce mild sagging in the hips and edges of the buttocks.

THE BRAZILIAN BUTT LIFT Buttock augmentation with fat grafting (the world-famous ‘Brazilian Butt Lift’) changes the size and shape of the patient’s buttocks. The

patient undergoes liposuction to remove unwanted fat from their abdomen, hips, thighs or flanks which is then processed before being injected into the buttocks to sculpt the body’s contour.

During this process, the surgeon makes a small incision in the region with excess fat and uses a range of techniques to dissolve fat deposits.

Brazilian butt lifts typically cost between £4,000 and £5,000 and the procedure takes two to three hours.

Patients are able to resume normal activities after two days but must avoid putting pressure on the buttocks and are advised to sleep on their front or sides for around three weeks.

BUTTOCK IMPLANTS In some more extreme cases, surgeons can also place silicone implants into the buttock, using a process similar to breast implants. Buttock implants are a popular cosmetic procedure to create the appearance of firm buttocks. During the procedure, pieces of specially manufactured shaped silicon are surgically placed into the patient’s buttocks to alter their appearance.

Buttock implants typically cost £5,000 and the procedure takes two hours. As with other buttock augmentation procedures, patients are able to resume normal activities after several days but must avoid putting direct pressure on the buttocks and are advised to sleep on their front or sides for around three weeks.

3 www.bellavou.co.uk 3 SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 63

SO TW_JUNE17_Advertorial_BellaVou.indd 63

25/05/2017 11:17

Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital • 40 stylish en-suite patient bedrooms and 3 operating theatres

• End to end core all under one roof from Prevention to Assessment to Treotmenl

• Integrated digita l theatre and endoscopy suite

• Physiotherapy, Radiology (Inc. MRI

• Oncology unit, Macmillan quality accredited

& CT) and Pathology

• Dedicated day case surgery unit

Whether it is on an insured or self-pay basis there is no need to wait. Ask your GP to refer you to Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospita l and be prepared for some first-class treatment when you need it most.

Nuffield Hea lth Tunbridge Wells Hospital hos a number of specialist consultants offering a range of cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures. We provide excellent quality core following on initial consu ltation, with appointment and treatment li mes to suit you.

Other specialities covered at Nuffield Health Hospital Tunbridge Wells include: Breast Surgery

Gynaecology

Orthopaedics

Urology

Dermatology

Oncology

Physiotherapy

Vascular surgery

Ophthalmology

Plastic

Oral and Moxillofaciol surgery

Sports injury

Ear, Nose

& Throat

General surgery

0

Nuffield H ealth Tu nb ridge Well s Hospital

Kingswood Rood, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 4UL

Untitled-69 2

9 {*:=

& cosmetic surgery

0 1892 5529 14

0

tu_custenq@nuffieldhealth.com

N uffieldhealth. com/tunbri dgewellshospital

25/05/2017 10:31

THE LOOK

FASHIONinsider I's style, style, and and explains explains This month, image consultant and stylist Catherine de Crèvecoeur focuses on men’s haves ••• how to keep things sharp yet simple with this season’s wardrobe must haves…

When it comes to managing your summer wardrobe, simplicity is key.

Avoid patterns and unnecessary embellishments. And by embellishments, I mean extra pockets when there is no need for them or fire breathing tiger printed t-shirts when a subtle logo will do. With the high street stepping up their game and designers offering more fashionforward styles alongside classic pieces, it’s time to give your wardrobe a refresh. Here are my top must-have pieces and how to wear them without coming across as though you’ve tried too hard. ➊ PINK POWER Pink is having a bit of a moment, with some of the most respectable designers injecting it into their menswear collections. If you’re going to brave the trend, play it safe with a single item, be it a simple t-shirt, a pair of socks or a fine knit jumper.

Jumper £119, Hugo Boss ➋ DESERT SHOES Just because it’s summer, doesn’t mean you can’t wear proper shoes. With brands from Clarks to Prada making the suede boot a must-have, they seem to be the answer to balancing casual and smart. Go for a sand coloured pair as they will go with everything.

Desert shoes £70, Dune ➌ FITNESS WATCHES If your step and calorie count matter to you, then this watch ticks all the boxes.

With a suitably slim wrist band and sleek interface, telling the time and keeping fit has become very fashionable indeed.

Fitbit, £139.95

➍ TIMELESS CLASSIC Whether you wear it for your commute to the office or on a night out, the trench jacket is a reliable, timeless classic addition to any wardrobe. Wear it over a suit or a smart casual outfit and make trans seasonal dressing easy.

Trench jacket £199, Barbour

➊

➌ ➎ COOL SHADES Get in touch with your inner James Dean and make your sunglasses add that effortlessly cool finishing touch.

The semi-circular shade has made a huge come-back with brands like Oliver People leading the way. Go for tortoiseshell frames or reflective lenses to tick all the on-trend boxes.

Sunglasses £30, Mens at Dune ➏ EASYGOING TAILORING One way to stay looking sharp with minimal effort is to match a relaxed, everyday tailored jacket with casual trousers and shoes. Make sure the fit is perfect for you as, like any blazer or jacket, this will make all the difference to your outfit.

Blazer £195, Whistles

➍ ➋

➎

➐

➐ SIMPLE SHORTS More than any other item, keep your shorts simple this summer, avoiding any extra pockets or oversized styles.

Invest in at least three different colours which you can mix and match with your shirts and t-shirts.

Shorts £29.95, Marks and Spencer

➏

➑ ➑ SHIRT JACKET Not a shirt, not a jacket, the shirt jacket has the wearability of a summer shirt as well as a final layer over a t-shirt when the temperatures cool down.  What more can a man ask for?

Jacket £135, Whistles

Catherine de Crèvecoeur PERSONAL STYLIST www.stylepourmoi.com

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 65

SO TW_JUNE17_TheLook_FashionInsider.indd 65

25/05/2017 11:03

... ar:1d hit the 1-ei.tdwith ._............

/

the non-surgical combination of both

VelaShape Ill and Cold Body Sculpting will show results never achieved before

*

COLD BODY SCULPTING

VelaShape Ill

courtesy of VelaSha e Ill GeraldBo

before

01892 22 22 22

after

before

MD

after

www.rtwskin.co.uk

Royal Tunbridge Wells Skin & Laser Cllnic, Cobden House Medical Centre, 25 London Road, Tunbndge Wells, Kent, TN 1 1DA

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 10:31

ADVERTORIAL

Creatively Crafted T H U R LW ELL S D E S I G N ER J E W ELLER S S P E C I A LI S E I N D E S I G N I N G A N D H A N D C R A F T I N G B E AU T I F U L A N D U N I Q U E J E W ELLERY.

A

ll their pieces are commissioned, designed and manufactured by hand on their premises using traditional tools and techniques. Working in this way means that every piece is not only superior quality, but genuinely one-of-a-kind.

Master craftsman Chris Thurlwell founded the company in 1989 after studying at the Central School of Arts and enjoying a long and successful career as a jeweller in

Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s West End. Since then he has developed a reputation for innovative and artistic design, as well as superior quality craftsmanship.

Chris also prides himself on providing impeccable personal service, and understands the importance of collaborating with clients. So you can be sure of creating something together that will be cherished for years to come.

www.thurlwells.com

SERENITY T

~

l\BR.JDGE WELL

The Fusion XPERT is a new concept in non-invasive aesthetic medicine. An advanced approach to Mesotherapy based on a combination of electroporation & photo bio-stimulation. which enhances the transportation of products through the NEEDLE-FREE MESOTHERAPY

epidermis to the dermis via cellular pores. This process allows product to reach the heart of the cells. at the

FUSION MESO

same time emitting an LED light to activate certain biological functions of the skin and the cells.

The Fusion XPERT needle-free Mesotherapy treatment is suitable for anyone wishing to treat conditions such as: 4 Treatments Before

After

Aged skin. wrinkles and expression lines. flaccid skin, pigmentation. dark eye circles and eye fat bags.

FUSION M E SOVTH E RAPY

stretch marks. cellulite and localised fat.

63a High Street. Tunbridge Wells. Kent. TN1 1XU 01892 535 252 www.serenitytherapies.com

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 67

SO TW_JUNE17_Advertorial_Thurlwells.indd 67

25/05/2017 11:29

SO TW_JUNE17_TheLook_FashionProducts.indd 68

26/05/2017 16:00

THE LOOK

BURBERRY

Aviator sunglasses, £183 www.sunglasses-shop.co.uk

JIGSAW

OLIVER SWEENEY

Alian cotton linen granddad shirt, £85 www.jigsaw-online.com

Paignton tan suede jacket, £599 www.oliversweeney.com

SUITS YOU SIR S T Y L I S H C A S UA L WA R D R O B E U P D AT E S FOR THE DISCERNING GENTLEMAN IN YO U R LI F E

BARBOUR

MARKS AND SPENCER

Cumbrae casual jacket, £209 www.barbour.com/uk

Autograph linen blazer, £129 www.marksandspencer.co.uk

MICHAEL KORS

Camo print backpack, £350 www.houseoffraser.co.uk

DUNE

Bampton brogues, £100 www.dunelondon.com

HAMMOND & CO

Navy Francis weave slip on shoes, £75 www.debenhams.com

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 69

SO TW_JUNE17_TheLook_FashionProducts.indd 69

25/05/2017 11:04

THE LOOK

GROOMING Gifts

THE PERFECT PRODUCTS TO GIVE A S A G I F T T H I S FAT H E R ’ S D AY …

ROJA PARFUMS Vetiver Eau De Parfum Pour Homme, £245

VETIVER EAU DE PARFUM POUR HOMME

Vetiver, a warm, dry, fresh, and spicy chypre fragrance centred around the sultry smokiness of Vetiver, freshened by citrus and 'green' notes. The dynamism of bergamot, lemon, and lemon-like litsea cubeba is amplified by a spicy blend of pepper, pink pepper, nutmeg and caraway. An unusual note of celery seed and galbanum add further freshness to the central theme of hot, smoky Vetiver, on a warm base of guaiacwood and amyris tempered by Rose and Jasmine.

Cedar and cedar needles are underscored by the dry scent of oakmoss and sensual, leather-like cistus and labdanum to perfectly complete this quintessential chypre fragrance. www.rojaparfums.com

GIVENCHY

Gentlemen Only Eau De Toilette Fraiche, £63 The fourth fragrance in the Gentlemen Only range, this elegant and alluring EDT is dedicated to appeal to all the senses.

Light and refreshing, this scent delivers an aromatic blend of citrus and woody notes, counter balancing the sweet scent of the lemon with the masculine twist.

The burst of pure freshness embraces a combination of Lemon, Nepal Mint, Sage Haiti Vetiver and Ambroxan to create an elegant Eau De Toilette. www.givenchybeauty.com

OLEHENRIKSEN

~

TLEME'-

1 Gl=.~_'L)

.

o 11~t1T~6 '

'

'--

Gl\l!:J\:CII\

Transforming Walnut Scrub, £26 This 2-in-1 lightly foaming facial scrub exfoliates and cleanses to purify pores. With a cocktail of natural wonders, including walnut powder, ginseng and chamomile extracts, this facial scrub goes beyond exfoliation for a deep cleansing, pore-purifying action that diminishes dullness for a transformation you can see and feel. This indulgent exfoliant instantly leaves complexion fresh, invigorated with a youthful-looking glow. www.johnlewis.com

70 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_TheLook_MaleGroomingProducts2.indd 70

25/05/2017 11:12

THE LOOK

SACHAJUAN Hair Wax, £20

For a hair product that gives natural-looking style with long-lasting hold, Sachajuan’s wax ticks all the boxes. This wax is a non-greasy grooming aid that moisturises and conditions hair. A superb finishing tool for all hair types creating texture and shine, it only takes a few seconds to achieve great-looking hair. Use in wet or dry hair. www.lookfantastic.com

ALCHEMY OILS

ESTHEDERM

Peppermint Beard Remedy, £21

Cellular Concentrate Serum, £79

Whether you’re rocking a fully-grown beard or your facial hair is a work in progress, without much needed moisture, it will look and feel rough and itchy – which is no fun for you or your nearest and dearest. Right on cue, British brand Alchemy Oils have created the all-natural Peppermint Beard Remedy, which will promote growth, plus soften and tame even the most unruly bristles. The potent blend of five natural oils including argan, coconut and avocado work in sync to condition and hydrate, plus Rosehip to improve skin condition. www.alchemyoils.co.uk

Working deep within cells to control and re-balance cellular energy, this serum targets the heart of cells.

Re-programming the cells’ basic functions combined with powerful active ingredients helps progressively correct the skin’s main problems: dryness, shine, sensitivity, reactivity and sagging. Cells regain their natural abilities and skin regains its radiance. Skin is replenished and strengthened with lasting results! Apply before other skincare products to boost their effectiveness. www.esthederm.com

SACHAJUAN .,__,, HAIR WAX

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 71

SO TW_JUNE17_TheLook_MaleGroomingProducts2.indd 71

25/05/2017 11:12

Untitled-1 1

26/05/2017 09:25

The Gorgeous Hat Company

MIRRO

EAUTY

Bespoke, statement headpieces IndividuaJ., luxurious and just a little bit different 07790898790 I allson@thegorgeoushatcompany.co.uk

Combination facial unique to S amstress

mi rror designed for you ...

WE OFFER THE VERY BEST IN FACIAL TECHNOLOGY INCLUDING THE LATEST CACI SYNERGY - CRYSTAL CLEAR OXYGEN AND MICRODERMABRASION

BUT.. OUR REAL MAG IC IS IN OUR FINGER TIPS RELAX AS EVERYTHI NG IS DESIGNED FOR YOU EXCLUSIVELY

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 73

p73_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 73

25/05/2017 11:51

skin·

(

fresh thinking. real results.

CONSIDERING LASER HAIR REMOVAL? T H E S TAT E O F T H E A R T S Y N C H R O R E P L A : Y L A S E R H A S A R R I V E D AT R T W S K I N I N T U N B R I D G E W E L L S

L

aser hair removal has come a long way since being introduced to the aesthetic industry in the mid1990s. There are many types of medical lasers, one size does not fit all. Lasers have become much more reliable, precise, powerful and effective. Many clinics have only one and in some small clinics this is not only used for hair removal but for all laser procedures. Most laser equipment is highly specialised, built for a treatment or skin condition and designed and calibrated for this specific purpose, achieving optimal results. The modern

medical laser is a great and effective device, but just like a kitchen knife has the potential to be deadly – a laser in the wrong hands has the potential to cause serious and permanent damage. A laser that is poorly engineered or not properly calibrated and maintained soon becomes unreliable and dangerous. So, what makes rtwskin not only one of the largest but one of the best equipped laser clinics in the UK? The list of ten items below show some of the reasons we were trusted to produce safe and excellent results in over 4,000 procedures in 2016…

“ The modern medical laser is a great and effective device, but just like a kitchen knife has the potential to be deadly...”

1 HOW DOES IT WORK?

Exposure to pulses of laser light

rtwskin is proud to be a training centre for DEKA Lasers in the UK. DEKA means ‘10’ in Greek – this indicates the attainment of perfection and excellence. We have won the trust and confidence of one of the most advanced European manufacturers.

2

We maintain and service our twelve lasers spread over six laser-safe rooms under planned maintenance contracts with the manufacturers or their appointed service agents.

3

We maintain the same strict rules that were set by the CQC but sadly abandoned in 2010.

Before

The melanin absorbs the light and heats up

After

4

Our clinic is different from other clinics as we know that skin and hair types are different and it is essential that a properly trained practitioner can select the best device for your skin and hair type.

74 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Advertorial_RWTSkin3.indd 74

26/05/2017 16:02

ADVERTORIAL

NEVER SHAVE AGAIN

5

DEKA Lasers work closely with professors of the University of Florence in the development of hardware and clinical protocols for safe and effective treatments.

6

All our lasers have ongoing clinical tests that are shared with doctors and laser users keeping them informed and updated on the latest discoveries and techniques to continually improve the patient experience.

7

In January 2017 rtwskin took delivery of the most powerful and advanced Nd.YAG / Alexandrite / IPL laser platform currently in production anywhere in the world. The DEKA Synchro REPLA:Y Excellium 3.4 Laser System has the new patented Moveo Technology that revolutionises the laser hair removal procedure as never before; guaranteeing patients

maximum comfort and fast effective results.

MOVEO technology on the Excellium 3.4 is the fastest and most powerful device ever created.

8

Brand names such as DEKA, Quanta and Fotona are famous for their high standards of quality and pursuit of perfection.

9

In 2016 rtwskin was approved by the NHS to provide hair removal treatments for transgender patients.

10

In 2013 we became the first clinic in the UK to have the DEKA SmartXide2 Co2 Laser. Since then we have carried out hundreds of successful facial resurfacing procedures, Madonna Eye Lifts and all the cutting-edge procedures that this worldfamous laser is capable of.

“Our new DEKA Moveo technology that we have been using for the last few months has provided our patients with results of up to 50% hair reduction by the third treatment. It is a life changing experience for many of our patients and now it’s pain free, fast and highly effective!”

DR NINA SHEFFIELD, CLINICAL DIRECTOR AT RTWSKIN

Contact rtwskin today to book your complimentary hair removal consultation on 01892 222 222 or visit www.rtwskin.co.uk

0Ci08

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 75

SO TW_MAY17_Advertorial_RWTSkin3.indd 75

26/05/2017 09:24

NOWLE RANGE

-

HEALTH SPA

lJour ~a reÂąrwÂą...

From hot stone massages to bespoke facials. We offer Organic Beauty that nourishes the Soul.

Feel divine ... Look divine!

Get into shape with help from our specialist PT team.

Enjoy swimming in our heated natural spring water pool or relaxing in our candlelit spa bath and sauna. Catch up with friends or simply relax and enjoy some peace.

Every day is different at Knowle Grange and we recognise that our members and guests are different too! So why not choose a treatment, day or membership and make some time for you!

Contact us on: 01892 750761 or 750055 I www.knowlegrange.co.uk Knowle Grange Health Spa Frant, TN3 9EJ

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 10:34

REDEFINE YOURSELF WITH CONFIDENCE

Ne

I

n

8th June 2017, 7pm General Aesthetics & Cosmetics

'' I a hr1II d wi h th ults of my i e w ke f c lift I couldn ' b h p ier , , Ms MT, Kent

2017

Forthcoming events GENERAL AESTHETI C~ COSMETICS 8th June 2017

MOLE CHEC EVENT 6th July 2017

BR EAST AWAR E ESS 12th October 2017

COSMETIC SURGERY 29th November 2017

Book your appointment for expert advice & guidance now!

Purity Bridge 19 Mount Ephraim. Tunbridge Wells , Kent TN4 SAE T: +44(0) 1892 536 960 F: +44 (0)1892 536 061 E: info@puritybridge.co.uk

www.puritybridge .co.uk EridgeHorse_FullPage.indd 1

26/05/2017 10:25

WELLBEING

“The whole point of following your life purpose, pursuing the career of your dreams, your inner passion (whatever you want to call it) is to enjoy it”

78 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Wellbeing2.indd 78

25/05/2017 11:15

KEEPING IT REAL M E L O D Y S AVA G E F R O M T H I S D I V I N E L I F E E X P L A I N S H O W B E I N G H O N E S T W I T H O U R S E LV E S C A N P O S I T I V E LY A F F E C T O U R P R O D U C T I V I T Y A N D I N C R E A S E T H E P L E A S U R E OF BEING A SELF-MADE ENTREPRENEUR

S

ometimes despite ‘the best laid plans…’ our bodies, the universe or the world at large imposes on us in such a way that it can feel like we are no longer in control. Today I struggled. Today I had things to do – a whole uninterrupted day devoted to working on the business, catching up and getting organised.

Whew! Far from the pleasure that I had expected, the tasks that I had looked forward to, it felt that I was wading through treacle and everything - and I really do mean EVERYTHING was a tremendous effort. And as for pleasure – what pleasure? The whole point of following your life purpose, pursuing the career of your dreams, your inner passion (whatever you want to call it) is to enjoy it.

I recently read a great post about vulnerability by a woman I much admire.

As a very private person I have always resisted writing about my own particular vulnerabilities. In the work that I do I find it enormously beneficial to my clients to

share examples and experiences from my own life, illustrating for all of us, that even if at times we may feel so, we are never alone. There is always someone who has experienced what we are experiencing… albeit in their own unique way.

So by writing this I know that I may just help someone else who then realises it’s not them – there’s nothing wrong and sometimes we are just not in the flow – whatever the reason is. And that’s the other thing, sometimes we don’t know what the reason is – and you know what, that’s ok too.

This is the art of true detachment, of letting go and not having to have all the answers and to BE IN CONTROL! How liberating is that… The next and most empowering step in truly getting to grips and learning from how we are feeling is to do something different.

If we are truly honest with ourselves and recognise that we are not procrastinating, we are not being lazy, we are not being stopped by fear or any other story running

in our head – and by the way, if you are dealing with any of these issues get help and get them sorted since you just don’t have to suffer. If by honest self-examination we know it’s not us, it really isn’t and even if we can’t explain it, put your finger on it or give it a name, just allow yourself to realise it isn’t you.

And then give yourself permission to actually go and do something different.

Yep, that’s right – you heard me. You work for you. You make the rules. You are the boss. You can do what you want. Yes really.

You can. Because you say so!

And if you are still struggling I give you permission to go and do what you need to do; something that wasn’t on your agenda this morning; your to do list, in your vision planning or anywhere on the horizon. I give you permission to leave the building.

Go get some fresh air, have a walk, go for a run, heck - drive to the beach. It doesn’t matter. You weren’t going to get anything productive done anyway…

3 www.thisdivinelife.com 3

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 79

SO TW_JUNE17_Wellbeing2.indd 79

25/05/2017 11:15

._,,_~ eULL HO)'~

-~ THE

BULL PIT BAR-BO

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 10:36

Untitled-92 1

25/05/2017 16:50

FEGO SEVENOAKS IS NOW OPEN FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER AND EVERYTHING INBETWEEN 11PM 8AM Try our amazing artisan coffee, burgers, cocktai ls and anything else you might fancy. All will be enjoyed in a beautiful space with both in and outdoor seating and served by our friendly team who are only too happy to make your Fego, experience, the best that it con be.

Try something a little different and save the date for our launch party, a silent disco from Spm-llpm Friday 30th June - Because we can!

Follow us on instagram @Fegouk for more information and how to purchase tickets once they go on sale.

EridgeHorse_FullPage.indd 1

26/05/2017 10:27

EVENT

â?&#x2013; ONE YEAR To celebrate the first birthday of local marketing agency Big Orange Media, guests were treated to champagne, canapĂŠs and cakes at the Tunbridge Wells Hotel on The Pantiles. The event coincided with the first Jazz event of 2017, and guests enjoyed celebrating the occasion in this unique and atmospheric setting. Managing Director, Joe de Kwant Stoner, raised a toast to clients, colleagues and friends of the company who had helped to make year one such a success, with the team helping over 30 local businesses reach their full marketing potential. www.bigorangemedia.co.uk Pictures by Matt Harquail

SO TW_JUNE17_Social_BigOrangeMedia.indd 83

25/05/2017 10:58

• •

EridgeHorse_FullPage.indd 1

•

26/05/2017 10:35

EVENT

❖ I N D U S T R Y C E L E B R AT I O N The Insurance Institute of Royal Tunbridge Wells (IIRTW) recently enjoyed their annual dinner at One Warwick Park Hotel. IIRTW President, Simon Parsons, welcomed guests from within the industry along with Cllr David Neve and Mrs Jill Neve, the Mayor and Mayoress of Tunbridge Wells. Other guests included Edward Grant from the Chartered Insurance Institute. Following dinner, the 2017 Young Insurance Professional of the Year Award was presented to Jake Martin, Snr Marketing Acquisition Executive from AXA PPP healthcare.

The raffle in aid of the insurance charities raised £1,000. Entertainment throughout the evening was provided by a singing Chef, Maitre d’ & Waitress, and guests rounded off their evening by dancing the night away.

Pictures by Katie Parsons

SO TW_JUNE17_Social_Insurancedinner.indd 85

25/05/2017 10:59

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

C.L. Leppard ~ of May fie/dP.--.

HIGII CUSS FA.\IJU' BUTCNF.RS

°'

/>Ul'Wt'l"OR.S THI." Flo\'[ST ,\I ULf, CAMP. & , 1ou,1.11,n• l~"11'--•ll•P,1'111¥1

Moltf"'~-C:u't';;~lllf'••

Leppards Family butchers in partnership with Heals local shop at Five Ashest Mayfield are an established butchers with three local shops in the area.

You can find a fantastic array of local meat, from mayfield pork to Rotherfield lamb, we cure our own charcuterie and bacon and we currently have bbq packs of delicious marinated meats, please call in and talk to our experienced butchers.

For dfrections or details please ring 01435 873 984 Leppards Butchers and Heals Local Shop

www.healsfarmshop.co.uk

Moyse farm, Mayfield road, Five ashes, East sussex TN20 6HL

•

•

•

•

•

86 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p86_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 86

26/05/2017 09:35

All our spices, masalas and sauces are skilfully prepared, everything is cooked to order from fresh primary ingredients which naturally yield flavours that are distinct in taste and quality. Awarded by the BCA, winning best restaurant in the south east region in 2016, and previously in 2014, we feel confident that you will realise an unparalleled appreciation of the dining experience offered at The Cinnamon Square

~

I

Ip

z AUlililies Limited

FOR THE TRUE TASTE OF INDIAN CUISINE Rings Hill, Hildenborough TN11 8LX Open 7 days a week

Lunch 12.00pm - 2.00pm

t: 01732 832944

Evening 5.30pm - 11.00pm

www . the cinnamon square . co . u k (Take away service available 10% Discount)

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 10:50

FOOD

Wined and dined C H A R L I E B O N D S P E N D S A N I G H T D I S C O V E R I N G W H AT T H E T I C K L E D T R O U T I N W E S T FA R L E I G H H A S T O O F F E R …

N

estled in the quaint Kentish village of West Farleigh, just a few miles outside of Maidstone, you’ll find The Tickled Trout. The pub is the latest addition to the Hush Heath family, having opened its doors at the end of 2015, and with modern touches to the 16th century building and six boutique bedrooms, it’s a charming retreat in picturesque surroundings.

From Tunbridge Wells, travelling to the pub is easy – it’s situated minutes from the A26, but when my guest and I pull into the car park and take in the blooming flowers surrounding the pub’s entrance and a sheep grazing nearby, it feels as though you could be hours from the hustle and bustle of life.

Inside, the pub is cosy and inviting – a butler sink filled with Hush Heath wines and ciders is a stylish addition to the bar, which is decked out with chic grey wood panelling, while oak beams run overhead. There are already plenty of revellers enjoying a Friday night drink or dinner, but before we sit down to eat, there’s the small matter of finding out where our bed for the night will be.

Hush Heath’s ethos for their accommodation is ‘a home away from home’, and they’ve certainly succeeded in creating inviting, luxurious bedrooms.

We’re shown to ‘Luke’s Tree’ – a room named after owners Richard and Leslie Balfour-Lynn’s son, although all of the rooms are named after family members and individually decorated.

Our room is divine – a super king bed lies beneath stunning oak beams, and a luxury en suite bathroom overlooks the scenic village settings outside. I pad across the plush carpet and wish this really was my own home – I could easily move in.

We freshen up and head back downstairs for our dinner reservation. Tonight, we’re sampling the ‘Hush Heath experience’ option. This is a three course menu, with wine pairings, and is available as part of Hush Heath’s Experience Tour, which costs £50 per person and includes a full estate, winery and tutored tasting tour at the vineyard, as well as food and drink at the Goudhurst Inn. It may be a set menu, but it’s by no means limited, and I have a real struggle deciding what to choose.

Eventually, I settle on the tomato and pesto bruschetta to start and the ale battered haddock for my main, while my guest chooses the Jake’s Cider onion soup, followed by confit pork belly.

Each dish comes with wine recommendations, and our waitress brings us over a selection of three of Hush Heath’s wines to try – the Hush Heath Manor Pinot Noir, Skye’s English Chardonnay and Nannette’s English Rose.

The pub is clearly a popular spot, because almost every table is filled – some are large groups out celebrating birthdays, and some are couples enjoying a romantic meal.

Looking around, I notice that owner, Richard Balfour-Lynn is even frequenting tonight – and if it’s good enough for the boss then I know we’ll be in for a treat.

88 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Food_TheTickledTrout.indd 88

25/05/2017 09:44

FOOD

Our first courses arrive and we eagerly tuck in. My bruschetta is full of flavour – the rocket on top gives a peppery finish, while the pesto is deliciously nutty. My guest emphatically enthuses about the interesting cider flavour of his soup, which is accompanied by cheese on toast.

What could be better?

In the past chardonnay has received a bad rep, but it’s time to forget all of that – when I take a sip of the Skye’s Chardonnay, it’s sharp, citrusy with a wonderfully long and fruity finish. Yes, it works well with the bruschetta, but this is a wine I could enjoy on its own, or with a multitude of dishes. As it’s unoaked, it’s

similar in style to a Chablis, without that buttery, creamy taste on the palette.

Our main courses arrive, and as my fish is presented to me, the restaurant manager disappears off and returns with a glass of Leslie’s Reserve sparkling wine to accompany my dish. Fizz and fish and chips is one of my guilty pleasures, so this gesture has just made an agreeable evening even more enjoyable.

The clue may be in the name, but the Tickled Trout are known for their fish dishes, and my haddock certainly lives up to expectation. The fish comes beautifully presented on the plate, coated in a mouth-

The Tickled Trout

wateringly light and crisp batter, and – particularly pleasing – a good amount of homemade tartare sauce accompanies. The Leslie’s Reserve is an excellent pairing too.

My guest’s confit pork belly is served with savoy cabbage with pancetta and a creamy mash. The meat is so tender it falls apart, and paired with the wonderful Hush Heath Manor Pinot Noir, with its peppery, warming finish, this dish is certainly a winner.

For dessert, we both choose the same – the chocolate torte, which is served with Cointreau crème anglais. It’s served warm and incredibly moreish – the orange flavour from the cream really

makes the dish something special, and we each devour every last bite. To accompany, we drink the Nannette’s English Rose, which is soft with hints of strawberry, and a fresh finish.

Perfect for summer drinking, I can see this becoming a firm favourite at barbecues over the coming months.

Plates and glasses empty, and stomachs full, it’s time for us to retire to our room, where, according to my Fitbit tracker I have the most restful night’s sleep I’ve had in months, in perhaps the most comfortable bed I’ve ever slept in. I wasn’t joking about moving in, and I’d happily live off the Chardonnay…

3 Lower Road 3 West Farleigh 3 Kent 3 ME15 0PE 3 www.thetickledtrout.com SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 89

SO TW_JUNE17_Food_TheTickledTrout.indd 89

25/05/2017 09:45

ROSEMARY SHRAGER_S COOKERY COOKERY COURSES

CHEF'S TABLE

S

C

H

O

O

L

GIFT VOUCHERS • CHILDRENS CLASSES

PRIVATE PARTIES • CORPORATE EVENTS • HOSTED MEETINGS

Chef>s Table Exclusive Dining Experience with ever-changing menus created by Michelin trained chefs One Day & Weekend Cookery Courses with Rosemary Shrager & Iain More Telephone: 01892 528700

11 RSCookerySchool

Email: school@rosemaryshrager.com

Untitled-69 2

W RSCookerySchool

www .rosemaryshrager .corn

25/05/2017 10:50

FOOD

thought for food T H I S M O N T H , O U R C ELEB RI T Y C H EF RO S EM A RY S H RAG ER I S B U S Y F I L M I N G , B U T I F Y O U S T I L L N E E D Y O U R F I X Y O U C A N F I N D H E R AT O N E O F T H E S E F O O D I E F E S T I VA L S O V E R T H E C O M I N G M O N T H S …

 4TH JUNE Hatfield House  11TH JUNE Eat & Drink, Manchester  17TH & 18TH JUNE Reading  7TH & 8TH JULY V Festival, Chelmsford  9TH JULY Foodies Festival, Blackheath  11TH – 13TH July Great Yorkshire Show  14TH JULY Foodies Festival, Tatton  20TH AUGUST Banbury Food Festival  27TH AUGUST Newstead Abbey Demo  28TH AUGUST Sherborn Demo, Dorset  17TH SEPTEMBER Festival of Food & Drink, Clumber Park Nottinghamshire  7TH & 8TH OCTOBER Cake & Bake, London  11TH & 12TH NOVEMBER Cake & Bake, Manchester  25TH & 26TH NOVEMBER Eat & Drink, Olympia

3 www.rosemaryshrager.com 3 SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 91

SO TW_JUNE17_Food_RosemaryShraeger.indd 91

25/05/2017 10:43

‘Ladies Who Lunch’ 2-courses Menu for £19 Join us for a two course lunch for £19 and receive a £10 voucher each to spend in our fashion boutique. The Whody Boutique stocks a glamorous selection of jewellery, handbags and clothing for women of all ages. Come and have a look, you will not be dissapointed.

Available Monday - Friday.

Headcorn Road, Grafty Green, Nr Lenham, Kent ME17 2AR

www.whodathoughtit.com

Father’s Day Sunday 18th June Treat your dad to a fantastic Sunday lunch at the Who’d A Thought It. Choose from our A La Carte Menu or enjoy a Sunday roast and if the sun is shining dine on the terrace. Book your table now as we will be busy.

Royal Ascott Friday 23rd June Come dressed to the nines and celebrate Royal Ascott with us. A guaranteed glam and funpacked day with live racing shown on the large screen and a delicious 2-course lunch for just £30. Live music in the afternoon.

Who’d A Thought It. BOUTIQUE HOTEL & BRASSERIE

Untitled-8 1

To book your table, please call

01622 858951 26/05/2017 15:33

ADVERTORIAL

TURMERIC GOLD MULTI-AWARD

Dining

WINNING INDIAN

GOING FOR

RESTAURANT

GOLD F O R S O M E T H I N G N I C E A N D S P I C Y , L O O K N O F U R T H E R T H A N M U LT I - AWA R D W I N N I N G I N D I A N R E S TA U R A N T T U R M E R I C G O L D I N T O N B R I D G E

A

few things can be said about Indian food, with its mouth-watering spices, deep flavoured tandoori grilled dishes, as well as the daring spicy dishes for those feeling more adventurous. With this in mind, Turmeric Gold family run restaurant has given the locals and surrounding areas some of the finest Indian food. Recipient of several deserved awards including BCA Curry Awards winners for the South East Region for consecutive years, Good Food Ethical Award and Top Chef in South East, there is no doubt why Turmeric Gold has achieved the great reputation it has.

The food is freshly and locally sourced in addition to always being cooked to an exceptional standard, ensuring customers are given the best possible experience.

The growing ‘fan base’ has resulted in the maintenance of this

Turmeric Gold

fresh and modern restaurant throughout the week. Keeping dishes and the atmosphere of Turmeric Gold authentic with bursts of unique flavours in their dishes from fresh curry and lime leaves, using a hand blended array of spices and ensuring all products are treated with the care and respect is what has produced the great quality food day in day out.

At Turmeric Gold you will find that they cater for all dietary needs from gluten free dishes, to vegan, vegetarian, and even mildly spiced food. Alongside this, 80% of the menu is available with your choice of vegetarian or fish, to allow you to find something to get your taste buds rolling.

This is not forgetting the chef ’s individual twists on dishes, thus

ensuring variety and excitement for those looking to try new things.

They use specially picked spices and ingredients, in company with making authentic garam masala to add to the experience, thus creating pungent strong flavours without losing the desired taste and not affecting the taste of the specially marinated selections of meats. With this in mind, this is how Turmeric Gold’s Indian food is the most outstanding example of how radical flavours, when prepared in the correct way work together to create an exquisite meal.

The restaurant itself is clean, smart, polished and modern with

traditional touches that add to the unique experience provided. The carefully and specially crafted menu has been designed by the chef to bring out the best of their ingredients and can easily be modified to suit the customer at their request. Being family run, there is always a personal touch and feeling of belonging. Even with the variety offered at Turmeric Gold, consistency and quality is a top priority.

Turmeric Gold does also have a luscious garden, patio and water feature and provides great atmosphere for family and children who are always welcome.

If that wasn’t enough they boast a modern lounge area where predrinks and cocktails are a favourite.

Providing a large car park for patrons and surrounded by great views, it makes for a great day and evening out. A must visit for all curry lovers.

3 Crockhurst Street 3 Tonbridge 3 TN11 0NT 3 01732 361772 3 01732 359325 3 www.turmericgold.com SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 93

SO TW_JUNE17_Advertorial_TurmericGold.indd 93

25/05/2017 17:11

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 10:51

COUNTRYSIDE

ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRY

YOUR GUIDE TO THE LOCAL COUNTRYSIDE

The best cycling paths nearby

BEDGEBURY FOREST For more fast-paced and adrenaline filled bike rides why not visit Bedgebury Pinetum? There’s over 30km of mountain bike trails to ride along.

And, if you’re really up for a challenge, perhaps it’s time to tackle the infamous ‘Cardiac Hill’…

FOREST WAY

TUDOR TRAIL

Enjoy the countryside along this 9 mile cycle route which follows an old railway line. Taking you from East Grinstead to Groombridge, expect to see an abundance of nature as you pass the pond west of Hartfield. And, why not take a picnic along? The trail is full of seats and picnic benches to be used.

See some of the best local attractions and historic landmarks on this ride. It’s a scenic five mile route along the River Medway, which takes you from Tonbridge Castle, through woodland to Penhurst Place and finally onto Hever Castle.

ASHFORD TO TUNBRIDGE WELLS

REDHILL TO TUNBRIDGE WELLS

If you’re up to the challenge of over 40 miles, then this is the best bike ride to explore the Weald. Cycling along small country lanes, you’ll pass beautiful scenery such as hop farms, orchards, oast houses and picturesque villages which showcase why Kent is the Garden of England.

This route is roughly 36 miles long and takes you from city views to country ones.

Travelling through Gatwick airport, you then follow off road Sussex border paths until you arrive in East Grinstead. From there you go through countryside until you arrive at your destination – Tunbridge Wells.

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 95

SO TW_JUNE17_CountryFeature.indd 95

25/05/2017 09:33

SPORT

TAKE UP TENNIS I T ’ S N O T A L L C R E A M T E A S A N D C H A M PA G N E , Y O U K N O W …

96 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Tennis Feature2.indd 96

25/05/2017 11:00

L

ooking for a fun sport to keep you fit and active this summer? Tennis is one of the most popular sports in the world – both in terms of spectator figures and participation. The ‘Wimbledon effect’ is a prime example, with the tournament action gripping legions of fans, and inspiring countless others to pick up a racquet and get into the swing of the game themselves.

Tempted to tackle tennis yourself? Here, Wimbledon head coach Dan Bloxham, rallies five ace facts about the sport...

FAMILY FUN

WORKOUT WONDER

Tennis is one of those sports that can be enjoyed from childhood through to later life, making it a great way of keeping fit and having an activity the whole family can enjoy.

The competitive edge adds an extra twist, but even if you’re just in it for the exercise and fun – and to see how long you can keep those rallies going – there are boundless benefits. Whether it’s parent and teenager time, or something to keep the kids occupied on a Sunday morning, why not check out tennis courts in your area?

“The nice thing with tennis is you forget you’re doing your workout,” says Bloxham.

“We’ve all sat on the bike in the gym thinking, ‘10 minutes gone’, or, ‘20 minutes left’. But when you’re rushing to your forehand [in a game of tennis], you actually forget you’re working out. I think in years to come, in the next five years or so, people will lose interest in the gym and try and find things they can do that are also a little bit more exciting,” Boxham adds.

Indeed, where other activities can seem repetitive, traditional sports like tennis offer something more action-packed and lively. You’ll be so engrossed you’ll lose track of time, rather than counting down the minutes to the end of your workout. It’s great for overall fitness too – you get a cardiovascular workout with the short sprints and dashing back and forth, head-to-toe muscle groups benefit (it’s not just the arms and thighs!), not to mention the hand-eye coordination and response skills you’re improving.

SOCIAL SPORT Dan Bloxham believes tennis is a great way to combine exercise and socialising. “[The] gym is great, swimming is great, but it’s pretty tough to have a chat when you’re on the cycling machine in the gym. Tennis is a really nice way to meet people,” he states. A weekly game of tennis can be a great way to keep in touch with friends, and a fantastic way for kids to build up social skills and self-confidence.

You could even join a tennis club and become part of a community with a shared interest at its heart – a fantastic way to make friends and keep up those social engagements, particularly as you get older.

SKILL FOR LIFE In addition to the above, tennis isn’t only something you can enjoy throughout life – it’s also, as Bloxham notes, a sport where it’s possible to “get better as you get older”, because it’s a game of skill and technique, not just fitness.

IT’S EVERYWHERE As Bloxham adds, tennis is played “all over the world”, which means it’s usually not too difficult – within reason – to find somewhere to play.

“If you move to another country or your family goes to another city or town, if you can play tennis to a reasonable level or to a club level, you can walk into any club in the world and you have a social network,” says Bloxham.

“So I think it’s a great sport to invest your time in as a young player, and also as an adult.”

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 97

SO TW_JUNE17_Tennis Feature2.indd 97

26/05/2017 16:09

l e v a r t o t e

m i T

Baldwins DPS JUN17.indd 2

WITH

26/05/2017 10:00

Independent, Family and Group Travel Specialists in Tailor-made Itineraries and Cruising

■

■

Flights, Hotels, Car Hire, Tours & Packages Travel Insurance. Foreign Currency. Gift Vouchers.

BALDWINS TRAVEL TUNBRIDGE WELLS

01892 511999

BALDWINS TRAVEL TONBRIDGE

01732 351223

BALDWINS TRAVEL MAIDSTONE

01622 762141

BALDWINS TRAVEL CRANBROOK

01580 714411

BALDWINS TRAVEL LEWES

01273 472466

TRAVELUX TENTERDEN

01580 764344

BALDWINS TRAVEL UCKFIELD

01825 760488

SEVENOAKS TRAVEL

01732 458255

For our opening hours please visit our website www.baldwinstravel.co.uk | #HolidayInspirations

Baldwins DPS JUN17.indd 3

26/05/2017 10:01

TRAVEL

S Excellence WISS I T ’ S O F F I C I A L – T H E S W I S S A R E G O O D AT E V E R Y T H I N G . W E S E N T P I P PA PA R K T O O N E O F E U R O P E ’ S F I N E S T M E D I C A L S PA S T O D I S C O V E R T H E A R T O F R E L A X AT I O N …

S

ometimes you just need to run away and recharge your batteries. Ideally somewhere pretty, indulgent, quiet and with a bit of class, right?

Well there’s no better place to treat yourself than the land synonymous with quality.

Switzerland’s tag of excellence is well known the world over. Chocolate, watches, banks, cheese – heck, even penknives – if you want something done well you give it to the Swiss. The precedence of my stay is set mere moments after landing, when I purchase a gold embossed train ticket printed on smart card. I’ve received actual wedding invitations that were less fancy. It’s even laminated and presented in a pouch, complete with a map of the area. Pay attention Southern Rail,

this is how it’s done. Of course there are no late trains either and we set off punctually from Zurich.

Zurich is pretty much the most desirable (and wealthiest) city in Europe and packs in high end shopping, luxury lodging and first-rate cuisine, so a stop off here is highly recommended if you have time. My final destination lies in eastern Switzerland, so I head off with my nose pressed against the train window.

Jaw dropping scenery unfolds on my hour-long journey, with rambling green woodland giving way to enormous lakes that bounce the afternoon sunlight like a glorious, glistening mirror. Mountains rise up around me to create a backdrop worthy of The Sound of Music and presently we arrive in what is affectionately known as the

100 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Travel2.indd 100

25/05/2017 11:13

TRAVEL

‘Heidiland’ region, for reasons relating to the novel by Johanna Spyri.

Here is where you’ll find the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, Europe’s leading medical resort and spa. Tall trees initially shield it from my view and continue to flank the long drive, which only serves to add to the impressions of grandeur.

There are two reasons that Bad Ragaz is so wonderfully private. The first is that, given its stately appeal, the hotel attracts high profile guests who prefer to go unnoticed. Expect famous faces and a rich clientele.

The second is down to the fact that there’s a medical centre at the hotel, offering everything from dental work and facelifts to Botox and knee operations.

Naturally, guests are keen to hide away from prying eyes until such time as they have fully healed, and wish to recover and relax in ultimate luxury. This makes ‘guess the operation’ a great game to play at breakfast.

Wellbeing is something of a time-honoured tradition in this area, as just 15 minutes from the hotel lies the mysterious Tamina Gorge, where warm healing waters bubble up from inside the mountain. As far back as the 13th century, pilgrims would travel to the Abbey of Pfäfers to bathe in the thermal waters and in 1535 the doctor and philosopher Paracelsus testified to the healing powers of the springs, and so began the age of spa tourism. Today the water is channeled to Bad Ragaz, where you can swim in the 36.5°C thermae pool.

An escape for mind, body and soul, the resort encompasses everything from a public thermal bath (presented in a ‘temple’ style setting), casino, 18-hole golf course, 267 luxury rooms ranging from ultra modern suites to traditional classics, a highly advanced medical centre and an impressive hotel spa complete with a La Prairie boutique shop. A dizzying selection of restaurants is at hand, from the culinary art at exclusive Michelin-Starred IGNIV and the light fare provided in Olives d’Or, to traditional Swiss cuisine at Zollstube and Asian sharing food and cocktails at Namun.

Attention to detail was apparent throughout my time here, from the three water sommeliers (yep you read that right – three) who would choose which variant of H20 would best suit your daily needs, to the positive affirmations that appeared nightly on my pillow and the complimentary ‘sweetie buffet’ of homemade confectionery that you could take away in a goodie bag.

A huge draw of Switzerland is that, unlike its European counterparts, it offers yearround appeal. Come in the summer for hiking, lake sports and sunbathing or embrace the wintry months and enjoy spas, skiing and hot tubs in the fresh mountain air.

If you follow the mountainous road to Pfafers you’ll find Hotel Schloss Wartenstein, a fantastic terrace restaurant with the most spectacular views of the Alps. We must have taken 100 photos here, the scenery is simply unbeatable and friendly manager Anna puts on quite a spread.

From Bad Ragaz there are numerous excursions into Heidiland, as well as the Pizol ski region where a winter sports school operates, as well as 40km of off piste slopes and an exhilarating seven-kilometer toboggan run. But in honesty you could happily spend your entire trip at this classy resort, where white fluffy robes rule and the alpine landscape steals your attention at every turn.

After a leisurely swim in the outside thermae pool, a sunbathe in the luscious green grounds while gazing dreamily over the distant, snow tipped mountains and a deep tissue massage, before enjoying a crisp white wine and lunch alfresco on the terrace, where birds chirp around you in the sunshine, I defy anyone not to feel relaxed, recuperated and ready to return to society.

Bad Ragaz operates under the premise that life is precious, and you deserve to take time out from your busy life to focus on your health and wellbeing. Who are we to argue with the professionals? They seem to be on to something, too. The hills here might not be alive but after a long weekend nestled in them, I most certainly am!

“You could happily spend your entire trip at this classy resort, where white fluffy robes rule and the alpine landscape steals your attention at every turn”

3With special thanks to www.resortragaz.ch and www.schloss-wartenstein.ch 3 SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 101

SO TW_JUNE17_Travel2.indd 101

25/05/2017 11:14

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 10:35

HOLIDAY HOMES

A HOME

from home

LO CAL EXP ERT SARAH GIBBINS EXPLAINS WHY TECHNOLO GY HAS F U E L L E D T H E R A P I D R I S E O F T H E P R I VAT E LY O W N E D H O L I D AY H O M E

I

n the last ten years, the holiday home rental sector has been totally transformed and is expected to reach a staggering 169 billion dollars by 2019.

Technology-driven booking platforms have allowed access to holiday homes virtually anywhere in the world. The range of homes available online is spectacular: Anything from a basic £8 a night dormitory bed in Rome to a £7,000 a night 14th century Michelangelo villa in Tuscany, or even a tree house in Bali or houseboat in Charleston USA. Growth in this market has been fuelled by travellers showing an increasing preference for a more flexible, relaxed style of holiday accommodation. One where they can set their own timetable, enjoy a kitchen, lounge, private garden or pool. There is also an increasing interest in exploring the culture of a destination – having the opportunity to stay away from the main clusters of tourism and having a more culturally authentic experience.

So what’s happening?

Where do you start?

The holiday home rental market has captured serious attention from both investors and consumers. According to Dave Montali, from Skift Research, Airbnb started the rapid evolution of the new global marketplace by combining a new type of urban rental model with innovative technology. Just ten years old, Airbnb now has three million listings and over 250 million guests worldwide. The rise from its original couch surfing days has been truly spectacular although it hasn’t been a smooth journey and the company has attracted some negative press along the way.

Recently bought by Expedia, HomeAway, another giant which owns Owners Direct and the huge American VRBO, has a truly global reach with over one million properties listed in 190 countries. It has however, recently overhauled the way it takes bookings adding a hefty and controversial service fee.

And now Tripadvisor is muscling in on the scene. They have bought Holiday Lettings, Vacation Home Rentals and Flipkey. Interestingly last year a large luxury hotel company, AccorHotels, owners of Sofitel, moved into the marketplace by buying up the luxury city rental site, One Fine Stay. They are introducing luxury hotel standards to privately owned homes in popular cities.

Whether you are a homeowner looking at the best way to pitch your accommodation or a traveller looking for holiday accommodation, it is a good idea to start by researching the big sites first. They can quickly give you a feel for what’s happening in a destination. They will have detailed information on the type of accommodation you can expect to find, peak and off-peak pricing structures, how quickly properties get booked up and guest reviews showing information on what guests enjoy and what their expectations are. After the big three, there are some good medium-sized booking sites. If you are looking for a city apartment try Wimdu or One Fine Stay or for a villa style holiday home try Roomarama.

When you have done your research and understand your destination, hunt out the local listing sites and compare their properties and prices. For example, Bookings for You specialises in rentals in Italy and France and runs some great experiences, or Discovery Holiday Homes lists properties in Devon, or Rio Exclusive for luxury accommodation in Rio de Janeiro. Most areas have a local company and if you are new to renting out holiday homes it can be comforting dealing with a smaller organisation that may be better placed to monitor the quality of the home and the guest.

It is important to remember that all of these booking sites have very different structures for both the owner and the traveller so always check out exactly how the site works, the cancellation policy, insurance, booking or listing fee, and whether cleaning and bed linen is included. Spending time researching and hunting out the best booking sites or holiday homes means that you will get the most out of this exciting marketplace.

3 Email Sarah on info@marketingholidayhomes.co.uk for advice or visit www.marketingholidayhomes.co.uk 3 SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 103

SO TW_JUNE17_HolidayHomesFeature2.indd 103

25/05/2017 09:49

Not too big,

No too small,

Just right.

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 10:54

LEARNING

Schools

EDUCATION NEWS A L L T H E L AT E S T S T O R I E S F R O M O U R L O C A L S C H O O L S

WINNING WRITING

 YOUNG GARDENERS

With the generous help and support of two local nurseries, Bethany’s Gardening Club is now working alongside the Food & Nutrition Studies (FNS) Department to create an edible garden for pupils to use in their projects. The idea was brainchild of Mrs Maggy Fillery, Bethany’s green-fingered Lab Technician, who runs the club.

Last month, Bethany School pupils Will Stoneham, James Caney and Alexis Casdagli headed to Golden Hill Nurseries to select vegetables to include in the garden, and were donated a whole trolley full of produce.

Mrs Fillery says, “Without the help of

these friendly local nurseries, we would really have struggled to get this garden up and running in time for harvest this year.

The pupils will learn incredibly important lessons about the provenance of their food and the sourcing of quality ingredients.

We can’t thank them enough for their donations, and look forward to sharing our first harvest with them.”

This latest project is one of several for Bethany’s young gardeners, who are hoping for a repeat of last year’s success in the RHS Campaign for School Gardening ‘Budding Gardeners’ competition, which saw the Bethany team take home a gold medal.

GYMNASTIC CHAMPION

Rosie Bayliss, a Year 7 student at Weald of Kent Grammar School in Tonbridge, has added another national title to her growing collection of gymnastics medals.

Rosie took Gold at the All-Around Compulsory Level 1 Women’s Artistic British Championships in Stoke-on-Trent last month, seeing off competition from the top gymnasts

Rosalind Carvell, a Year 11 pupil at The Skinners’ Kent Academy (SKA) has just been awarded first prize in a prestigious writing contest run by the London Institute of Banking and Finance.

In January last year, three students studying finance at SKA entered the national competition, one in the 17 to 19 category and two in the 14 to 16 category.

The task for students in all categories was to write an article in less than 1,000 words entitled ‘How will financial education help me to meet the financial challenges I will face throughout my life’.

Rosalind Carvell won the prize for the latter and at last week’s awards ceremony on May 15 the Managing Director of Financial Capability, Alison Pask (pictured) presented Rosalind with a certificate and a prize of £50.

Rosalind, who is Head Girl at SKA, is currently aiming for an A* grade in her GCSE Personal Finance class with intention to complete the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme in the Sixth Form at the Academy.

of her age from all over the country.

Rosie, who is 12, trains at Europa Gym Centre in Crayford, making the 50 mile round trip from Tonbridge five days a week. Rosie says: “My mum drives me to training every day and I’m really grateful to her. Thank you to my coaches Rochelle Douglas and DavidRoy Wood for all their help to get me to the level of National Champion again.”

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 105

SO TW_JUNE17_EducationNews.indd 105

25/05/2017 09:36

#iloveboarding " ge to see my best friends every day and do fun activiti s aft r my studi s."

EJla, ag<路d Lit, fr m Kcul

V ith o r 75 000 b ard r at 00 l !K ind I n lE路nt and stat b arding s hools British boa r路d ing ha rcinv nlcd itself. The suppo rliv and nurtu r路ing en ironm "'Ill h lps Ludcnl thri , and gj Lhcn1 more Lim to pc, d doing Lhc thing Lb lo e, TOD1 L am port t mu i Lucli . i it our Boarding Bus al Lh Kent Counl ho 7-9 Jul. 2017 r visit our w b it - lo rind out mor al ul Lif al a b )ar<li.t g chool.

boarding.org. nl Untitled-69 2

0207 798 1580

bsa I

BOARDING SCHOOLS' ASSOCIAT ION

25/05/2017 10:58

ADVERTORIAL

BOARDING BENEFITS T H E R E H A S N E V E R B E E N A B E T T E R T I M E T O B OA R D AT A U K B OA R D I N G S C H O O L

T

he unique experience provided by a British boarding school affords a top quality education and flexibility for modern families. The UK has the largest, oldest and most admired boarding sector in the world with over 450 schools.

At the heart of every boarding school is the philosophy to ensure each child is happy, thrives and succeeds, whatever their interests or talents. Whether on the sports field, the concert hall or in the classroom you can be certain all boarding schools help young people achieve their full potential. The structured environment and extended school days are designed to offer pupils a

wealth of valuable life experience, enabling them to gain independence and be wellprepared for life beyond school.

Parents may choose for their child to attend boarding school on a full, weekly or flexi-board basis, according to their family schedule. Visits, support at concerts, pitch-side and events are encouraged, as is communication via visits, video chat, telephone and email.

Robin Fletcher, Chief Executive of the Boarding Schools’ Association, said: “Academic achievements are fundamental in this fast-changing, global world, but the ‘extras’ are what really make a boarding

“I get to see my best friends every day & do fun activities after my studies.”

- ELLA, AGED 14, FROM KENT

school experience count.

“Boarding school can offer an enriching life experience, preparing children for the wider world. Learning to live with others with respect and tolerance and having the ability to resolve conflict when it occurs are key skills young people will need when they enter the working world and experience the challenges of the 21st century.

“The supportive and nurturing boarding school environment helps students thrive, and gives them more time to spend doing

the things they love, from team sports to music studies. More often than not, the achievements, friendships and interests cultivated at boarding school last a lifetime.”

The Boarding Schools’ Association is taking a ‘Boarding Bus’ – a fully kitted out mobile boarding bedroom – on tour this summer. Visit our Boarding Bus at the Kent County Show July 7 to 9 or visit our website to find out more about life at a boarding school.

bsa I

BOARDING SCHOOLS' ASSOCIATION

3 www.boarding.org.uk 3 SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 107

SO TW_JUNE17_Advertorial_Boarding.indd 107

26/05/2017 11:24

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

LIFE & STYLE W E LO O K AT S O M E O F T H E B ES T WAY S TO EN H A N C E YO U R H O M E A N D LI F ES T Y LE T H I S M O N T H

SEW CLEVER Running from a beautiful grade-II listed Tudor home, sitting in the heart of a picturesque village in Kent, the Cowden Quilt School teaches the traditional art of making patchwork quilts with a modern take. Instructing two-day beginners courses to small groups, these adult lessons cover everything needed to start making beautiful quilts for your home, friends and family from a quaint home-based studio.

To create the perfect experience, courses include homemade cakes and lunches,

tools, comprehensive course notes to keep, and a glass of something fizzy to celebrate at the end!

Teaching you everything you need to know by hand, there’s no need to bring a sewing machine and, while it helps to have some basic sewing skills, it’s certainly not essential. Even helping choose the fabrics to make a patchwork cushion cover, you will learn all the traditional crafts of patchwork and quilting to make your own beautiful heirlooms, gifts and home furnishings.

Courses run over two days for £150 (including £40 deposit), from 10am to 4pm.

Coming soon: New patchwork taster courses! Bring a sewing machine and get a taste of the endless possibilities this craft can offer. Short courses taking place in venues in and around Cowden this summer – like the Facebook page to find out more.

07949 025150 www.facebook.com/cowdenquiltschool

108 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_LifeandStyle.indd 108

25/05/2017 10:18

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

COLOURFUL CHARACTERS Popping some bedding plants into tubs, baskets and borders is a quick and easy way to brighten up your summer. If you are looking for an easy answer to bring colour to your outside space this year, Trixi-Mix pots are the best way to go – these pre-planted combinations grow to produce different brightly coloured displays, already beautifully designed for you. Found in Coolings Garden Centre, these handy pots are the answer for any busy gardener. Or do it yourself - with glasshouses packed full of beautiful plants, just itching for you to take them home, your garden can be summer ready in no time. For those with a hot sunny position, be sure to look out for Arctotis in the July Cuttings vouchers. There are also lots of beautiful patio plants that prove shade does not have to be dull. The Champagne Begonia is a long-time favourite, but if you fancy something a little different, perhaps consider the Fuchsias, Begonias or New Guinea Impatiens. www.coolings.co.uk

PHIL SPENCER ANNOUNCES TOP AGENTS IN THE UK Local Independent Estate Agent, LeGrys, has won a prestigious national award for its outstanding customer service, voted for exclusively by clients. The awards determine the best estate and letting agents in the UK based purely on feedback from customers, who are asked a series of questions about the service they have received from their agent.

Over 34,000 surveys were completed by customers during the competition.

LeGrys Estate Agent has three branches in the South East with a fourth opening in St Johns in July. The award was granted in recognition of the high level of customer service provided

by the Southborough branch.

Owner and Founder of LeGrys Estate Agent, William LeGrys, said:

“We are delighted to win recognition for the work we do to ensure all of our clients receive excellent service.

The fact that our clients rated us so highly means a lot to the team.” www.legrys.com

SO Magazine / JUNE 17 / 109

SO TW_JUNE17_LifeandStyle.indd 109

25/05/2017 10:18

110 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p110_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 110

26/05/2017 09:39

BUSINESS

Economy

MONEY MATTERS T H E L AT E S T U P D AT E S A N D A D V I C E F R O M T H E F I N A N C E A N D B U S I N E S S M A R K E T S

SAVING STRATEGY

Couples looking to enjoy a comfortable retirement together need to be putting away at least £131 per month if they start saving from 20, nearly £200 if they start saving from 30 or over £600 a month if they put off saving until 50, research suggests.

The research from Which? found that, on average, retired couples found they needed £18,000 a year to cover household essentials – such as food, utilities, transport and housing costs – rising to £26,000 allowing for extras including European holidays and leisure activities.

Which? said, based on current retirement ages and state pension entitlements, couples starting from scratch need to be saving £131 a month combined if they start from age 20 to achieve this goal, £198 a month if they start aged 30, £338 a month if they start aged 40 and £633 a month if they start from 50.

50 FUNDS

The average “squeezed” 50-something has more in debts than savings, a survey has found.

Excluding mortgage debt, the average person aged between 50 and 59 owes £4,641 from borrowing, such as credit cards loans and overdrafts, according to the research from Nationwide Financial Planning.

This outweighs the average amount of cash they have put away in savings accounts, at £4,511.

CUT CASH

The rise in technology and new ways to pay has changed many people’s spending habits – but would you ditch cash altogether?

One in five (21%) people in the UK would be willing to go cash-free, according to the ING International Survey Mobile Banking 2017.

However, this was the lowest proportion found in the international survey of 15 counties. By contrast, a third (34%) of

Europeans generally would go cash-free if given the choice, ING found.

ING senior economist Ian Bright says: “Cash is not likely to die out soon. Four in five consumers say they have used cash in the last three days. Many would not want to go completely cashless and some prefer the privacy and physical sensation of cold, hard cash.”

PAUSING PLANS

Two-thirds of people expecting to retire this year say Brexit has not affected their plans, a survey has found.

Some 67% of people planning to retire in 2017 said their plans have not been altered by the vote to leave the EU, according to the research from Prudential.

But there were some signs of uncertainty, with more than one in 10 (11%) of those who were planning to retire in 2017 saying they had changed their retirement date directly because of the referendum vote.

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 111

SO TW_JUNE17_BusinessNews.indd 111

25/05/2017 09:28

MOTORS

TALK THE

TORQUE C

all this the entry-level version of the GTC4Lusso and you’ll upset some very proud Italian engineers. Ferrari’s shooting brake might now come with the brand’s turbocharged V8 – hence the ‘T’ in the name – and circa £30,000 lopped off the asking price, but there’s a lot more to it than simply offering an alternative to the naturally aspirated V12.

I’m assured that so much love and attention goes into everything the Italian carmaker does that it considers this a wholly different car – the “sixth product” in its line-up, to be precise.

The engine, which we’re familiar with from the 488 GTB supercar, has been given new pistons and a new intercooler design, while the exhaust system has been reworked to reduce pressure. On the face of it, the smaller engine is better suited than the V12 to GT car duties because it’ll go about 30% longer

Darren Cassey finds out what the Ferrari GTC4Lusso T is made of…

between fuel stops.

The 10.25-inch high-definition touchscreen, introduced with the V12 model, works like a tablet and is excellent, while the passenger’s screen gets new features such as the ability to add navigation waypoints and take control of the music.

stunning circular rear lights look like a concept car feature that wasn’t meant to make production.

Inside, comfort is almost excellent. The seat design is clearly geared towards being sporty – a very good thing when you’re going great guns, but mile-munching isn’t quite as luxurious as it could be.

LOOKS AND IMAGE

SPACE AND PRACTICALITY

The GTC4Lusso is loosely based on its forebear, the FF. Only the chassis and some of the cabin shape has been retained – the rest is redesigned.

An engineer told us he would guess it’s “about 70% new”, with a lot of the changes to the exterior coming from improving aerodynamic performance and modernising the styling.

It works, as pronounced rear haunches make the car look wide and purposeful, while the

Before the FF and then the GTC4Lusso, Ferrari owners who wanted to take a weekend away with the family would have had to buy a second car or send Jeeves ahead with the luggage.

Therefore, the idea of this car is to offer all the space most owners could need for everyday use. And for the most part, it succeeds. Boot space is plentiful and would easily fit numerous shopping bags or holdalls.

112 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Motors3.indd 112

25/05/2017 10:44

FACTS AT A GLANCE MODEL: Ferrari GTC4Lusso T PRICE AS TESTED: £199,285 ENGINE: 3.9-litre V8 POWER: 602bhp TORQUE: 760Nm MAX SPEED: 199mph+ 0-60MPH: 3.3 SECONDS MPG: 24MPG EMISSIONS: 265G/KM

Perhaps the only negative space-wise is within the cabin. For front passengers there’s more than enough room, but six-foot-plus passengers in the back will suffer slightly as legroom isn’t brilliant, while the low roof could get a little claustrophobic.

WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET? Lift the imposing bonnet and a 3.9-litre V8 can be seen tucked deep within the engine bay – behind the front axle to aid weight distribution. It almost looks a little lost in a bay designed to hold the 6.3-litre V12, but it’s far from lacking theatre.

Performance is suitably ballistic.

Considering the GTC4Lusso T is designed with long-distance cruising in mind, with 602bhp and 760Nm of torque – less power than the V12, but more torque – there’s more than enough performance to pin you to the back of your seat should you desire.

It feels a little perverse talking about fuel economy when there’s a Prancing Horse on the bonnet, but in this segment miles per gallon is just as relevant as miles per hour – official figures of 24mpg and CO2 emissions of 265g/km are impressive for a car that offers such pace.

BEHIND THE WHEEL Thumb the wheel-mounted on/off button and the engine barks into life with a flurry of revs. The throttle pedal takes a moment to get used to as there are a few inches of travel before anything happens, but once you’re on the move, the engine’s responsiveness is otherworldly. There’s no such thing as turbo lag here.

You’ll also need a moment to adjust to

the size of the GTC4Lusso, but once you find a fun road, it seems to shrink around you. The four-wheel steering makes the car super agile, particularly in tighter turns, and the hyper-alert steering helps the car dart across twisting tarmac in a way that belies its 1.7-tonne heft.

The engine doesn’t quite sing like Ferraris of old, but there’s a deep, gravelly tone that gives the car an aggressive, purposeful demeanour. In Ferrari’s 488 GTB supercar, the power delivery feels like a drop kick to the back, but here that monstrous torque comes in with a surge.

That’s because Ferrari manages the boost levels so that they increase as revs rise it’s more becoming of a car with everyday sensibilities in mind.

The roads heading south from Pisa on Italy’s west coast were a true test of the GTC4Lusso T’s ride – after an hour on cruise control I vowed never to complain about Britain’s broken road network ever again.

However, it was useful because it tested the car’s liveability – there’s no getting away from the fact it doesn’t quite iron out crumbled tarmac like a Bentley can, though it performed well for the most part. It’s the trade-off for being arrowsharp in the corners, so choosing between rivals will come down to needs and wants.

emissions allow for huge tax breaks.

However, compared to rivals, it’s by far the pricier option. Its closest rival is the Mercedes-AMG S 65 at £188,550, while the Bentley Continental GT Supersports starts at a little over £177,000. The Porsche Panamera Turbo seems like a bargain with a start price just below £100,000.

None have the allure of a Ferrari badge though, nor can they handle a back road so impressively. However, all three do a slightly better job of serenely munching through miles.

WHO WOULD BUY ONE? The GTC4Lusso T is aimed at a wider profile of buyers than the brand is used to. It’s looking at 30 to 45-year-olds who live in the city and need a practical car to carry passengers regularly.

Because it has rear-wheel drive rather than the V12 version’s all-wheel drive, it’s also aimed at people who live in warmer climates.

VERDICT In the GTC4Lusso T, Ferrari could easily have suffered at the hands of contradiction.

Relaxing and practical for weekends away, but sharp and agile for your favourite backroads – not usually comfortable bedfellows.

There are compromises to be had – yes, the ride is cosseting with the wheelmounted ‘manettino’ switch turned to ‘comfort’, but it’s a little fussier than a Bentley Continental or Porsche Panamera when the roads get rough.

However, if one of those cars followed the Ferrari on to a B-road, the Prancing Horse would gallop off into the distance without hesitation. It really is sensational, logicdefying performance.

If money’s no object, spending an extra £30k on the V12 version seems like a no-brainer. But if running costs are important, fear not – the GTC4Lusso T could hardly be considered a lesser car.

VALUE FOR MONEY The GTC4Lusso T might cost a tank of fuel under £200,000, but when you look at the performance figures compared with the £30,000-dearer V12 version, it does start to look like good value. Admittedly though, the T makes more sense in other European countries where the lower SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 113

SO TW_JUNE17_Motors3.indd 113

25/05/2017 10:45

The UK's o ldest indep end ent Ferrari spec ia list

FERRARI SALES, SERVICING & RESTORATION E M AI L: info@foskers .com SA LE S: + 44 (0) 147 4 874555

WORKSHOP : +4 4 ( 0 ) 1474 874777

114 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p114_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 114

26/05/2017 09:41

ADVERTORIAL

MASERATI MATTERS As a growing brand in the UK, the demand for specialists in the Italian manufacturer’s products has never been higher. Leading the way in Kent is Tonbridge-based Giallo Cars with Mathew Sage at the helm

Can you tell us what your business is, and where the idea came from?

Can you tell us about some of the services you offer?

My business is servicing and repairing Maseratis. I’m passionate about cars and owning my own business has always been my goal in life.

We offer a comprehensive service covering all aspects of the car; this includes tyres, servicing, used car sales, warranties, body repairs, accessories, mechanical repairs, upgrades and leather repairs. We have always ensured that there is nothing we cannot cater for when it comes to owning a Maserati.

What made you decide to specialise in Maseratis?

Originally we didn’t start out as a Maserati specialist, but it soon became evident there was a need for specialists as the brand became more prominent in the UK marketplace.

Having created a great relationship with the Maserati Club, and the growth of the internet forums, we soon became known for what we do. Naturally, our growth has followed the ever-expanding sales of Maserati’s in the U.K.

How big is the Giallo team?

The team is small, only four of us. We have Sharon Humphreys, she is the Service Manager, who is the first point of communication for our clients. Chezney Jeffs is one of our technicians, he has been with us now for 18 months. Trevor Brazier is our driver/valeter. He travels the south of England to collect and deliver cars. Then there is myself, the owner and managing director. As well as running the business, I am a knowledgeable and experienced Maserati technician.

You recently relocated to a new facility in Tonbridge. What was the reason behind the move, and how has business been at your new location?

Moving the business was essential for us to manage and sustain our growth over the next few years.

Our new facility is more convenient, clean, modern and energy-efficient.

If a client has to wait for some repairs, it is easy for us to direct them to the ever-growing Tonbridge town centre where they can find the castle, shops and restaurants. Since we have been here, all our clients have been amazed by our new facility and its location.

Sum up your company in one sentence:

Giallo has a passion for Maserati and we are proud to be bringing the brand into Tonbridge.

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 115

SO TW_JUNE17_Advertorial_Motors_Maserati3.indd 115

25/05/2017 11:26

A RANGE OF CANOPIES DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY TO ADD STYLE AND PRACTICALITY TO YOUR HOME. Durable and attractive ahminium structures are available with a range of glazing or fabric covers, allowing you to choose the perfect structure for your setting and budget

100's of Worktops I 1000's of Doors door replacement I made to measure service I bedroom doors worktops I appiances I sinks and taps I drawer replacement improved storage and access solutions door refurbishment service I instant hot water taps fitted

The Kitchen Doctor's bes~e 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 servi ng London and the South-East since 1984

experts on top!

Is your conservatOI)' too cold in winter? Too warm in summer? Too noisy in bad weather?

Too bright when the sun is out? Too leaky when it rains? Too draughty?

Then why not replace your your existing polycarbonate or glass conservalOJY roof with a new tiled and insulated roof and transform your conservatory into the garden room you deserve. It's a lot more affordable than you may think.

Call now for a free, no obligation quote on 01323 844944 because we all need a roof over our head.

Solid Conservatory Roofs Lower Dicker, Hailsham East Sussex BN27 4BH Telephone: O 1323 B44944 E-msil: info@ lifestylehi.co.uk

116 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p116_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 116

25/05/2017 12:02

¡-

-

r."-""

c;_

~

~

~

.....;

-

~,, -

-~

1

"

For the ultimate in timeless elegance look no further than Blind Design's range of blinds, shutters and curtains.

::---

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 10:59

Grosvenor House, Grosvenor Park, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN 1 2BF

Derroll Tozer Chairs & Upholstery Shop

Renowned for its high quality upholstery and unbeatable service, the Chairs & Upholstery Shop has built an impeccable reputation in Tunbridge Wells since it first opened there 12 years ago.

• Specialist fine antique upholstery • Upholstery & re upholstery traditional & modern • Loose covers • Handmade sofas & chairs • Handmade foot stools • French polishing

127 Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TNl 2QY Email: tozerchairs@aol.com

Tel: 01892 614122

Mobile: 07768 665592

www.chairsdesign.co.uk

118 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p118_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 118

25/05/2017 12:03

-~ I h r o

Badger Bath~~l~e~ ~ Visit our showroom Bodger Bathrooms, 8·9 Tubs Hill Parade, London Road, Sevenoaks TN131DH

01732 464450 www.badgerbathrooms.com

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 119

p119_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 119

26/05/2017 15:47

PA PHOTO / HANDOUT

The

SUITE LIFE Beat the bathroom blues with Gabrielle Fagan’s advice for restoring your restroom…

T

here’s a new wave of styles washing over bathrooms. The tide’s turning against the predictable, and embracing a more go-withthe-flow approach means you can mix-and-match furniture and fittings to conjure a space that perfectly suits your taste, as well as your practical needs, whether it’s a spa-like haven, a

functional family room, or a contemporary wet room.

As designers become more adventurous, sophistication, glamour and individuality rule.

And it’s easy to achieve a ‘wow’ factor, thanks to state-of-the-art technology – think TVs, sound systems and light and water shows in the shower – sculptural sanitary ware, and even stunning

waterproof wallpaper now vying with tiles for attention.

“The traditional bathroom suite has become outdated and there’s a desire for the space to become customised, with people seeing it as a room where they can display individual pieces, as they would art,” says Leanne Martin, head of product at Sottini.

“A strong industrial trend is

coming through, with steel-effect wall-hung cabinets complemented by sleek brassware and fresh white walls for an efficient, sleek look.

Bathroom units raised off the floor, increasing visible floor space, to create an illusion of a larger room, are starring, and a particularly striking ‘floating’ effect can be achieved, with

120 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_InteriorsFeature2_Bathrooms.indd 120

25/05/2017 09:50

INTERIORS

wall-hung, chunky, unsupported slabs in gloss or wood grain, and slim, curved vessel basins on top.”

Soak up inspiration from these latest bathroom looks...

LOOK OUT FOR: Mirrors with sensor controlled lighting and de-misting, as well as inbuilt functions linked to music systems, TVs and phones.

DRAMA ZONE

SERENE SANCTUARY

“If you don’t want to reach out and touch the walls, you’re not doing it right for 2017.

Bathrooms no longer mean matching tiles as far as the eye can see – as a nation, we’ve become experimental with wall finishes and shrugged off the constraints of the white bathroom tile,” says Leanne.

“Industrial concrete walls are being paired with textured wallpapers, while tile effects are being created using countless different sizes, shapes, prints and texture options. Even a retro wood finish has made a comeback for a Scandi-chic style statement, and for the really bold, vertical green, living walls, to give a lush 3D impact you can’t beat!”

Water, she points out, is a feature in itself. “It’s not enough that it drains down a plughole any more. It’s all about the spectacle of how it falls in a waterfall-like sheet from a height and disappears out of sight into concealed drainage.”

customisation is one of the fastest growing consumer trends,” says Jayne Barnes, managing director, AQATA. “The discerning bathroom buyer now wants not only a highly engineered luxury shower enclosure or screen, handmade to fit their space, but also a completely individual customised design to bring their own character and personality into the bathroom. Home trends are being reflected in bathrooms with diverse colours, patterns and textures making their mark.

“Today’s shower should incorporate these essential features: easy access (walk-in wet rooms are perfect for this), spacious enclosures and a steam function, as well as power showers and body jets to cater for comfort and wellbeing, and distinctive personal touches.”

LOOK OUT FOR: Larger showers as they’re being given more space in either a bathroom or bedroom, plus frameless enclosures featuring coloured or tinted glass.

“The bathroom isn’t purely about functionality, or a clinical environment any more. It’s a sanctuary that needs as much design consideration as a living room,” says Daniel Cook, principal development designer at C.P. Hart.

“It’s all about subtle elegance and a beautiful harmony of shades with less ‘pops’ of colour.

Muted consistent tones, such as taupes and greys for furniture and sanitary ware, are increasingly popular colour choices. There’s a move beyond white and glazed surfaces and a significant increase in pastel shades of pinks and blues.”

LOOK OUT FOR: A refined industrial trend with brushed finish brassware, matt finishes for ceramics, as well as silk/satin glass finishes.

MAKE A SPLASH “From cars to holidays, and clothing to furniture, SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 121

SO TW_JUNE17_InteriorsFeature2_Bathrooms.indd 121

25/05/2017 09:50

W HOME COUNTIES 1-==L' PAVING RESIN BOUND AND PAVING SERVICES Resin bound permeable gravel can be used for drivt'l'lays, pathways and patios. It leaves asmooth attractive linish and is available in awide range of different colours.

Crawley

~

domus

01293 972 013 Tunbridge Wells

01892 322 053 Brighton

INNOVATION

01273 978 029 Direct

Home automation I Interior Design Bespoke Kitchens & Bathrooms

07476 922 221

What is resin bound paving?

Naturally occurring gravel, shingle and crushed granite are mixed with a specially formulated clear resin to form a mixture which is poured to create a smooth surface.

New build Or for your newly prepared driveway footings we can use a permeable system, which comprises of a layer of porous concrete on your base, with a top surface.

Worth Comer Business Centre, Turners Hill Road. Pound Hill, Crawley RH10 ?SL Gemini House, 136-140 Old Shoreham Road, Brighton BN3 780 85 High Slreet, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN11XT

01732 647003 I info@domusinnovation.co.uk www:domusinnovation.co.uk

Company registration number: 10251326

1110 \'( ' 111 "'"""'

-

P( JI,.'.( 11 \ '\;( )', \

, , , ,,,

Till

t rnnp.im

Experienced & professional Extensive showroom over two floors • Easy par k'1ng • •

II

122 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p122_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 122

25/05/2017 12:06

It's more than our outstanding knowledge and product range that makes us so attractive.

T: 01732 350911 I showroom@townsbathrooms.co.uk I www.townsmerchant.co.uk Unit 4 Orchard Business Centre, Sanderson Way, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1QG Monday-Friday 9am-5pm I Saturday 9am-4pm

@) AQUALISA Untitled-69 2

' 5ihO' l t.Jeritk:;y

IMPERIAL IC0HlEll LAUf. EN

!!!!S.! Vi t r A GSI' 25/05/2017 10:59

fi urnishings

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 11:01

ADVERTORIAL

Interior

DISTINCT

DÉCOR I N T H E F I R S T O F O U R P L AY F U L S E R I E S O F I N T E R I O R D E S I G N T I P S , L O C A L D E S I G N E R A N D F URNISH ING SP ECIALIST RICHARD SHELDRICK FROM SET TLE ANSWERS OF TEN ASKED Q U E S T I O N S A B O U T W H E R E T O S TA R T W I T H I N T E R I O R S C H E M E S …

How can I make my room look more individual ?

It’s your room! And should, therefore, reflect you, your lifestyle, likes and loves. So, choose things that reflect your personality and that you adore.

Start your room with an item that you cherish and build your ideas of style or colour from there. If you love your family then have lots of photos or portraits. Love books? have lots of books. If you love your shoes – look at your shoes, don’t hide them away in a wardrobe – how about showing your Jimmy’s off in a glass-fronted cabinet? This should be fun shoey not necessarily feng shui.

Should I go for contemporary design or something more traditional ?

Following trends may end with you having the ‘latest’ but not always the best. Timelessness is your ally,

as is your environment, so choosing things that reflect your space and outlook and using pieces designed and made for you will ensure your individuality as well as function in a way that you need them to.

Traditional designs are often great question answerers and give you the comfort of ‘tried and tested.’

Painful as it is, try to buy the best quality that you can afford and take your time over decisions.

Remember that even if you have the most contemporary living space or the most traditional, the answer to this question lies with you… follow your heart.

How can I incorporate more colour – I’m scared I’ll make a horrible mistake?

Don’t be afraid to use colour – if you’re nervous, try accent colours over a more neutral background and Settle

add more adventurous colours gradually using artwork, cushions or accessories to add pops of interest.

This way you won’t make radical and expensive mistakes and if you change your mind, you can! Darker colours can project your possessions forward visually and neutrals can absorb light colours. Clashes here and there aren’t a bad thing especially if you would like to create a touch of drama.

There is much to read and learn when it comes to colour. Try different things to do with calm colours, peaceful colours, activity colours, and noisy colours. I think, however, that you can do no better than look at nature and how Pan has decorated his world – it’s hard to imagine that bluebell blue goes so well with vibrant green – but it does, doesn’t it? Grey sea colours go with shingle and shell colours, dark, stormy sky colours add vibrancy to natural colours.

The most important thing to remember is…This is supposed to be fun!

3 11 Chapel Place 3 Royal Tunbridge Wells 3 Kent 3 TN1 1YQ 3 01892 510 908 3 www.settlehome.co.uk SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 125

SO TW_JUNE17_Advertorial_Settle2.indd 125

25/05/2017 11:27

Kitchen - White Star with Matt Dakkar Tullymore Doors Mrs Farmer, Tonbridge, Kent

Experts in home

PROFESSIONALLY Fltted ln one~

FREE QUOTATION & Measuring Service

~~!~!~ kitchen &bathroom makeovers

Untitled-69 2

®

I!

APPROVED

Tunbridge Wells Showroom: 01892 888 684 Unit 5, Tunbridge Wells Trade Park, Longfield Rd, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3QF Sevenoaks Showroom: 01732 809 161 Polhill Garden Centre, London Rd, Badgers Mount, Sevenoaks, Kent TN 14 7 AD Ruxley Showroom: 0203 368 8495 Ruxley Garden Centre, Maidstone Rd, Sidcup, Kent DA 14 SBQ

Visit granitetransformations.co.uk for more information

25/05/2017 11:01

INTERIORS

Retro Tropicana TROP ICAL LEAF PRINTS AND BRIGH T POPS OF COLOUR PAIRED WI TH RETRO FINDS ARE MAKING A H UGE COMEBACK. I T ’S A TREND THAT YOU CAN D O NO WRONG WI TH - I T ’S ALL ABOU T BEING OVER THE TOP AND EMBRACING THE F UN SUMMERY I TEMS WI TH A PALM SPRINGS FEEL.

ALEXANDER & PEARL HAWAIIAN TROPIC LEAVES PENDANT LIGHT ★ £440 www.alexanderandpearl.co.uk

DARLINGS OF CHELSEA SASHA GRAND CHAIR ★ £1,409 www.darlingsofchelsea.co.uk

HUTSLY PEACOCK EMMANUELLE ARMCHAIR IN NATURAL RATTAN ★ £654.50 www.hutsly.com

MIAFLEUR FAUX STAGHORN POTTED PLANT ★ £106 www.miafleur.com

MIAFLEUR THE ESMERALDA ROUND VELVET CHAIR ★ £525 www.miafleur.com

\ ARTFINDER WATERMELONS ★ £105 www.artfinder.com

ARTISANTI TROPICAL BIRDS FRAMED PRINTS SET OF 4 ★ £749 www.artisanti.com

ELDERFLOWERLANE ANTIQUE GOLD PINEAPPLE LAMP WITH YELLOW GRADUATING SHADE ★ £160 www.elderflowerlane.co.uk

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 127

SO TW_JUNE17_InteriorsProducts.indd 127

25/05/2017 09:51

Reclaimed Building & Landscaping Materials Architectural Salvage &Antiques

Chests & Drawers Furniture Commission Painting I New and used furniture in stock I Bespoke Furniture to order

RECLAMATION

Ornaments to Interior features.

Why not pop in for a wander and a rummage!

OPEN ING HOURS :

102 London Road, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells, Kent T 4 OPW 01892 458021 I chestsanddrawerstw@hotmail.com

Mon - Fri 7.30am- 5pm Sa t 9a m- 1pm

EasyAccessBathrooms The Bathroom You Deserve at a Price You Can Afford

Functionality - Practicahty Beauty - Design Walk in Baths - Walk in Showers - Wet Rooms - Complete Bathrooms An Independent Tile & Bathroom Specialist Helping Users with Mobility Issues & Those Looking to Future-Proof Their New, or Existing Bathrooms.

Visit our Showroom in Cranbrook or Arrange a Hassel Free Consultation at Home.

Call Us On Or E-Mail us at

01580 849411

info@easyaccessbathrooms.co.uk

Easy AccessBathrooms Is Specialist Subsidiary Of " Classic Tiles & Bathrooms Ltd" Bartholomews, Carriers Road, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3JX 128 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p128_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 128

25/05/2017 14:49

Untitled-1 1

26/05/2017 09:44

As the UK's number one Oak Framed We offer an Insurance backed deposit Building manufacturer, we pride ourselves protectio n on all of our buildings plus a on not simply providing you with a beautiful I 0-year building guarantee if the frame is addition to your home, but much more assembled by our approved sub-contractor. besides.

With such standards and reputation, you may expect to pay more. However, with EHB is the only Oak Framing company In the UK thu can prove it meets the exacting our PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE, you building standards set by our Industry, will be safe in the knowledge that your resulting in us being awarded the Exova new O ak Framed building wlll exceed your expectations at an unbeatable price.

BMT RA DA Q -Mark.

EXTENSIONS • HOUS ES • GARAG ING • HOM E LEISURE BU ILD INGS PLANN ING• GARDEN ROOMS• GARAG ES WITH ROOMS ABOV E• COM PLEXES CART SHEDS • COMMERC IAL & PUBL IC BU ILDINGS • POOL ENCLOSURES ~ lia!1tq:tlluiJdll'JII In! dN! l,l{\'9nltan,d i,rity oak fn/Md ~ <ompv'I)' tc ~ ~ ExO'¥Ji BMTIUJlA.Q.t1ark. &:c,n BMTM.DA In! rwc~.n dwcQU!ftl'JI ladin;I IWhDrk)i on twnber fnl'llltd produm- ;and the- <:crdlleldon ol tkm.

------··· t.w J.V ! ' C ~ ~ - - a1o11 &(MM,,l ll''l' ANilM

a,1tt11

BUILD

STANDARD DESIGN BUILDINGS DELIVERED IN 6 TO 8 W EEKS

LOG ON TO

www.ehbp.com

FOR AN INSTANT QUOTE NOW

OR CALL 01424 838643 O FFICE OPEN ING HOURS: Mon-Fri 8.30am- 5.00pm FO R MAI N LAND EU ROPE C ALL US ON + 32 3 685 2000 ®

*Exel VAT. Special offer applies to detached buildings, excluding houses.

Please visit our website co view the Price Match terms i!.nd condldons.

130 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p130_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 130

25/05/2017 14:58

PROPERTY

HOME front

Finally, June is here! And in this glorious build up to the summer solstice, we can really start looking forward to the warmer weather, light sunny evenings and the long summer holidays that are peeking just around the corner. There couldn’t be a better way to celebrate the new season than with a beautiful new home, taking full advantage of the ample space and stunning gardens at your disposal. So if you are dreaming of the perfect property to gather together with family and friends, light up the barbecue and sip on cocktails as the sun sets over the rolling grounds, then this month’s selection of special homes could be the answer to all those dreams.

Whether it is spending lazy summer days cooling off in the pool, or inviting family to stay in the charming ancillary accommodation, these properties have been picked with the perfect British summertime in mind.

With handsome period houses, incredible surroundings and conveniently located positions, they cover it all.

And, with so many gorgeous gardens on offer, alfresco dining on a summer’s evening is an absolute must.

GORGEOUSLY GEORGIAN

A very handsome Grade II listed Georgian fronted village home in Matfield.

Price: £2,250,000

MARVELLOUS MILL HOUSE

An exceptional Grade II listed former mill house in Hartfield.

Price: £1,400,000

HEAVENLY HOME

A beautifully situated home enjoying wonderful far reaching views from its elevated position in Robertsbridge.

Price: £1,350,000 SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 131

SO TW_JUNE17_Property_HomeFront.indd 131

25/05/2017 15:45

Get away from it all

FROM FOLKESTONE

54mins FROM ASHFORD

37mins WAYS TO HElP YOU BUY & SELL

p Parr Exchange

COMING SOON TO:

·--

Canterbury

Lydden

Ashford

Chartham

"Help to Buy available on selected plots only. Subject to agreement. Terms and conditions apply. Ask our sales executives for details.

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 11:03

Perfectly placed for the Kent com.m.uter FOLKESTONE

HAWKINGE

HAWKIN GE

NEW ROMNEY

SISSINGHURST

Scholars Village

Terlingham Rise

Terlingllam Gardens

Mulberry Place

Church Mews

CTl9 SEY

CTIB 7SU

CTIB 7SU

TN2B BTII

TN17 2JG

2 & 3 bedroom semi-detached and detached houses

2, 3 & 4 bedroom family homes

213 bed bungalows exclusively for the over 55s

Avery special development of luxury 3 & 4 bedroom homes

Last 3 bedroom home remaining Showhome available to view

PRICES FROM £ 199,196

PnlCES FROM £ I 99,996 WITH HELP TO euv·

PR ICES fRO M £263,996

WITII HELi' TO BUY'

PRICES FROM £303,996 WITH HELP TO BUY '

PRICES FROM £363,996 WITH HELP TO euv·

Full selling priClls from £248,995

Full selling prices from £249,995

Full selling prices from £329,995

Full selling prices from £379,995

Full selling prices from £454,995

Call us on 01303 210171

Call us on 01303 B93080

Call us on 01303 B93080

Call us on 01797 361151

Call us on 01303 B64590

~larkeling Suite open

Marketing Suite open 7 davs a week l Dam - 5pm

Marketing Suite op n

By appoinlml!Dl

TTrn rs - Mo,1 I Oam-Spm

0111,v

M rketlng Suite opl!D

7 ,la

Untitled-69 3

$ ll

week JO,i111 - 5pm

7 days a week 10am - 5pm

WITH HELP TO

euv·

25/05/2017 11:04

PROPERTY

GORGEOUSLY GEORGIAN A very handsome Grade II listed Georgian fronted village home in Matfield

H

atherleigh is an impressive period home which provides the facilities usually associated with a classic country house, in a delightful village location. Enjoying a wonderful position overlooking the picturesque Village Green, Matfield lies in the heart of Kent, in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Walking in through the quaint cottage feel threshold of the property, guests step into the elegant drawing room. Boasting over 27ft, this impressive space provides a beautifully light and airy quality, benefiting from a dual aspect with views onto the Matfield Green.

To the right sits a charming dining room with inglenook fireplace and the views continue with an attractive aspect to the Village Green.

Down a set of stairs to the lower ground floor, the kitchen/breakfast room can be found as well as a family room/library across the hall with extensive display shelving.

Down a further three steps lies an extensive cellar with brick paved floor and windows to the front.

The first floor has an excellent master bedroom with exposed ceiling timber and stunning sash windows with a view to the Green. An en suite bathroom with cast iron

roll top bath leads on from the room.

Three further bedrooms reside on this level and all share access to the generous family bathroom. A staircase rises from the landing to the attic room arranged as two study areas at present with two dormer windows to the front and windows to the side and rear.

An attractive cottage provides excellent ancillary accommodation with underfloor heating on the ground floor, with a sitting room, kitchen/breakfast room and bathroom. On the first floor the accommodation extends above garaging, with two double bedrooms and a shower room.

For more details contact: Batcheller Monkhouse n 01892 512 020 n www.batchellermonkhouse.com 134 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Property_BatchellorMonkhouse_DPS.indd 134

25/05/2017 15:46

PROPERTY

“Down a set of stairs to the lower ground floor, the kitchen/ breakfast room can be found as well as a family room/library across the hall with extensive display shelving. Down a further three steps lies an extensive cellar with brick paved floor and windows to the front”

Property: Hatherleigh Location: Matfield Price: £2,250,000 Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2 Best Bits: Fantastic detached period barn incorporating a workshop and garden store, extends to full height with attractive timbers and has previously been used as a games barn with an indoor badminton court. n Period property n Overlooking the Village Green n Detached two bedroom cottage n Superb period barn n Triple garage n Home office n Mature gardens and grounds n Orchard area n 2.25 acres n Paddock Wood station 2.7 miles SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 135

SO TW_JUNE17_Property_BatchellorMonkhouse_DPS.indd 135

25/05/2017 15:47

Guide price: ÂŁ1,295,000

Tunbridge Wells A handsome Victorian family home situated in the desirable 'village' area 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms. Courtyard garden. Off-street parking and garage. Ideally positioned for access to the mainline station and Claremont Primary School. EPC:E. In all approximately 2,810 sq ft.

Guide price: ÂŁ1,100,000

Tunbridge Wells An attractive oast style family home situated on a private road within easy walking distance of the station 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms. Off-street parking. Pretty well-maintained Japanese style gardens. EPC:C.

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 11:07

South borough An attractive Grade II Usted Georgian cottage occupying a wonderful position on the Common 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 reception rooms. Brighi and airy well-proport ioned accommodation. Pretty gardens. In all approximately 1,983 sq ft.

Ticehurst A well-presented detached family house in a highly sought after location with south facing rural views 7 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 5 reception rooms. Detached garage and store room, heated swimm ing pool, hard tennis court. EPC: D. In all about 2.48 acres.

Untitled-69 3

25/05/2017 11:07

PROPERTY

MARVELLOUS MILL HOUSE An exceptional Grade II listed former mill house in Hartfield

B

elieved to date from the 16th century, this Grade II listed timber frame house has recently been renovated and refurbished to a beautifully high standard, providing flexible family accommodation arranged over two floors.

Set in outstanding surroundings on the edge of Ashdown Forest, guests arrive at the property to be greeted by the idyllic backdrop and a delightful tiled hall upon entrance. On from this welcoming space, an elegant and well-proportioned sitting room has outlooks on three sides, boasting numerous exposed beams and a fine inglenook fireplace with raised hearth, bressumer and brick surround that creates a

truly charming and cosy family space.

The superb and extremely well fitted bespoke kitchen/breakfast/living room has polished wood flooring and an extensive range of dresser style walnut and oak units.

An attractive feature curved wall frames the exit out to the terrace and garden with three stunning archways and casement doors.

The large dining room, with an additional sitting area, has original brick flooring, exposed beams, part underfloor heated tiled flooring and outlooks over the mill pond and terrace. This opens into a garden room which has a stable door opening onto the terrace.

On the first floor, the delightful principal

bedroom has outlooks over the garden and grounds, a deep walk-in wardrobe cupboard and an extremely well-fitted en suite bathroom with cast iron ball and claw bath, twin pedestal basins and a separate shower cubicle. There are four further bedrooms all with period features including exposed beams and one with an en suite shower room and all served by a family bathroom.

Outside, the wonderful gardens and grounds stand as a particular feature with the large original mill pond and stream with stone bridge setting a picturesque scene. The house is approached via a shared driveway to a large parking area which has planning for a garage with room above.

For more details contact: Hamptons International n 01892 516 611 n www.hamptons.co.uk 138 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Property_Hamptons_DPS.indd 138

25/05/2017 10:08

PROPERTY

“Set in outstanding surroundings on the edge of Ashdown Forest, guests arrive at the property to be greeted by the idyllic backdrop and a delightful tiled hall upon entrance”

Property: Newbridge Mill House Location: Hartfield Price: £1,400,000 Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 3 Best Bits: The large terrace by the house leading to a wide expanse of lawn, the swimming pool and the pond beyond which enjoys a decked jetty. n Utility room n Exposed beams n Inglenook fireplace n Underfloor heated tiles n Self-contained studio/annexe n Walk-in wardrobe cupboard n Cast iron ball and claw bath n Swimming pool n Original mill pond n In all about 3.623 acres n Shed and stable with separate entrance n Planning for a garage with room above SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 139

SO TW_JUNE17_Property_Hamptons_DPS.indd 139

25/05/2017 10:08

Daisy Lodge

ÂŁ950,000

Family sized detached house on the outskirts of this picturesque village w ith rural views to the rear of the property. This modern property has generous yet versatile accommodation which is laid out to maxim ise the enjoyment of the local scenery. Four double bedrooms and ample parking.

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 11:08

we open doors for you...

BarnesKingsnorth

The British Property Awards Winner for Tonbridge Barnes Kingsnorth have just won The British Property Awards for Tonbridge .

Their team performed outstandingly throughout the extensive judging period, which focused on customer service levels . Barnes Kingsnorth have now been shortlisted for a number of national awards which will be announced later in the year at our lavish ceremony in central London .

The British Property Awards provide agents throughout the UK with an invaluable opportunity to compare the service that they provide against the service

most inclusive Testate agencyawards providers asoreweonedoofnotthecharge to enter. he British Property Awards

This hos enabled our award to be stru(tured in a manner that ensures maximum participation, on overage judging over 90%of agents that meet our minimum criteria on a local level.

Our learn personally mystery shops every estate agent against a set of 25 criteria to obtain a bolonced overview of their rnstomer service levels. The judging criteria is both comprehensive and detailed exploringdifferent mediums, scenarios and time periods to ensure that agents have been rigorously andfai rly judged.

Robert Mcleon from The BritishProperty Awards said "Ourawards has been specifically designed to be attainable to all agents, removingcommon barriers to entry, such as cost, to ensure that we hove the most inclusive awards. Our oword hos also been designed to remove any opportunity for bias or manipulation. If on agent hos been attributed with one of our awards, ii is simply down to fa ntastic customer service levels that they hove demonstrated omoss a prolonged period of time. Winningagents should be proud that their customer servi(e levels provide o benchmark for their local, regional and notional competition"

provided by their local, regional and national competition. Agents who go that extra mi le and provide outstanding levels of customer service are rewarded with our accolade, which acts as a beacon to highlight these attributes to their local marketplace .

~1

Barnes Kings north~

Born es Kingsn orth 14 l HighSt, Tonbridge, TN9 1OH 01732 771616 www. bkesta teogents.corn

CALL US NOW FOR A FREE MARKET APPRAISAL on O1732 771 616 'e)Primel.omtiar rightmove W find your happy

Untitled-69 2

Residential Sales & Lettings

Pernbury. 01892 822880

Tonbridge . 01 '/32 '/71616

Lettings 01 '/32 '/'/16 16

e. pernburytabkea co uk

e. tonbr1dge1abkea co uk

e.

Lett,ngs 1abkea co uk

www.bkestateaqents.com

25/05/2017 11:10

PROPERTY

HEAVENLY HOME A beautifully situated home enjoying wonderful far reaching views from its elevated position in Robertsbridge

W

yland Wood is a delightful family home, understood to date from the late 18th century with later additions, occupying an elevated position with magnificent views over the Dudwell Valley.

Internally, the beautifully presented family accommodation approaches 3,000 sq ft, arranged over two floors, whilst externally the property benefits from gorgeous gardens and woodland, totalling about 2.8 acres.

Upon entrance, guests are welcomed with a wealth of timbers and beams to establish the charming character of the property that continues throughout, with exposed ragstone walls, diamond leaded light windows and

enchanting inglenook fireplaces.

To the right of the entrance hall sits a wonderful drawing room, enjoying an outlook onto the landscaped gardens and reaching views beyond. This family room, alongside the formal dining room, provide the ideal space to fully appreciate the benefits of the wonderful surroundings encompassing the property, with French doors leading out into the garden.

Following the Hall to the back of the house, the stylish bespoke fitted kitchen/breakfast room is equipped with an extensive range of cupboards, a central island and the lovely feature of an oil fired four oven Aga and

matching Aga fridge. A rear hall links the kitchen and utility room, alongside a boot/dog room and shower room.

An antique French oak staircase leads from the reception hall to the first floor where there are four bedrooms and two luxuriously appointed bathrooms. The principal bedroom enjoys wonderful south westerly views and benefits from a dressing area with built-in cupboards.

Outside, a substantial English Heritage outbuilding incorporates garaging with capacity for a number of vehicles, double doors and power and light connected.

Adjacent to this is a generous sound-proofed office with separate WC.

For more details contact: Savills n 01580 720 161 n www.savills.co.uk 142 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Property_Savills_DPS.indd 142

25/05/2017 10:12

PROPERTY

“Upon entrance, guests are welcomed with a wealth of timbers and beams to establish the charming character of the property that continues throughout, with exposed ragstone walls, diamond leaded light windows and enchanting inglenook fireplaces”

Property: Wyland Wood Location: Robertsbridge Price: £1,350,000 Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 3 Best Bits: A superb feature of the property are the surrounding landscaped gardens providing privacy and seclusion. n 18th century character property n Inglenook fireplaces n Aga oven and matching aga fridge n Elevated position n Landscaped gardens n 2.8 acres n English heritage garage n Sound-proofed office SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 143

SO TW_JUNE17_Property_Savills_DPS.indd 143

25/05/2017 10:12

McAufeJ Estate Agents

Castle street

£290,000 OFFERS INVITED

Sandown Grove

£800,000

Charming cottage beautifully presented over two floors comprising of a sitting room with cast iron fireplace, kitchen/breakfast room, separate utility, two double bedrooms and bathroom. To the rear of the property there are 'pretty' gardens that provide ample space for outdoor entertaining. Viewing is highly recommended to appreciate what this delightful property has to offer.

An opportunity to purchase a large fam ily detached house, located in a very popular residential area, close to Tunbridge Wells. The property is presented over two floors and has four/five bedrooms, large reception rooms and a stunning conservatory. Outside, there is a detached double garage and well stocked gardens with a variety of shrubs and plants. Double glazing throughout.

Pennine Walk

Addison Road

£360,000

St. James catchment! An opportunity to purchase this stunning, refurbished Georgian style property. Presented over two floors this spacious property comprises of a sitting room and modern white gloss kitchen/breakfast room with integrated appliances. Upstairs, two double and one single bedroom. Bathroom. The rear garden is split over two levels with patio and lawned area. Garage en-bloc.

£895 pcm

Available NOW! Attractive third floor apartment located within easy walking distance of the mainline station of High Brooms. This well presented property offers a spacious living room which opens into a kitchen breakfast room, two double bedrooms and a modern bathroom. There is allocated parking. Sorry, no young children. No pets. Council Tax Band D.

rrer: a1s9 2 61 4111 Cettings@nicaufeymiffer.com

Untitled-69 2

www.mcaufeymiffer.com

saCes@mcaufeymiffe:r.com

25/05/2017 13:48

LANGTON GREEN [ £2.25 MILLION A superb beautifully presented country house offering well proportioned accommodation set In lovely park like grounds and gardens extending In all to approximately 19.5 acres Dining Hall. Drawing Room . Sitting Room. Kitchen/ Breakfast Room. Utility Room. Master Bedroom Su ite with Dressing Room an d Shower Room.

Guest Bedroom with Ensu ite Shower Room. 3 fu rt her Bedro oms. Family Bathroom. Dou bl e Bay Ca r Port. Sta ble Block and Garden Store. Tennis Court. Beautifu l Gardens, Paddocks and 2 Lakes in all about 19.5 Acres. EPC C

APPLY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS OFFICE

Battle 01424 775577 hdlt i

Untitled-69 2

J, 11r !11 lll•rtr1pnl-h id Sf'

~

>rn

Haywards Heath 01444 453181

Pulborough 01798 872081

Tunbridge Wells 01892 512020

London Mayfair Office

hh" t1,1trtH lt•rr1HH1.,fll11,':if r:1 ,m

pult1, b.tlC)H llr-r111or1H1 n1~~ C(IIH

r,.,.e!I..., 'i 1,1lfl11 llernv nlilHJIJ~l· cv111

111,irf,nr t br1t( 111 lit. rmunl-:hJLJ'-:if-' C(l 111

25/05/2017 11:14

PROPERTY

EQUESTRIAN HAVEN A most attractive character family house in the rural setting of Holtye

T

he property is approached through a pair of electrically operated gates, leading to a pleasantly gravelled parking area.

Stepping in through a smart timber framed porch, guests enter the property into a large entrance hall with a wonderfully tiled floor. Following to the left, a substantial kitchen/breakfast room occupies an impressive space and benefits from a charming two oven electric Aga that compliments the delightful dĂŠcor running throughout the attractive property. Off from the kitchen sits a cosy

family snug complete with a lovely wood burning stove, creating the perfect comfy space to sit back and relax of an evening.

Leading on from this, an Amdega garden room can be found.

The sitting room enjoys a fantastic double aspect, with attractive shutters, overlooking the rear garden and also has a double sided wood burning stove with tiled hearth.

On the ground floor, a useful guest suite comprises of a double bedroom with en suite shower room.

Situated upstairs, a master bedroom

suite is entered through a spacious dressing area with access to the en suite bathroom. A further three bedrooms occupy this floor, serviced by a sizable family bathroom with a beautiful roll top slipper bath.

Outside, the driveway continues past the property and on to the wonderfully presented stables, barn and outbuildings.

A broad paved entertaining terrace with pergola leads onto particularly well maintained gardens with sweeping areas of lawn, established shrubs and an ornamental pond.

For more details contact: Jackson-Stops n 01892 521 700 n www.jackson-stops.co.uk 146 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

SO TW_JUNE17_Property_JacksonStops_DPS.indd 146

25/05/2017 15:51

PROPERTY

“A substantial kitchen/breakfast room occupies an impressive space and benefits from a charming two oven electric Aga that compliments the delightful décor running throughout the attractive property”

Property: Hartswood Location: Holtye Price: £1,450,000 Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 3 Best Bits: The fantastic equestrian facilities available, including the superb stables on the property n Entrance Hall n Cloakroom n Sitting room and study/library n Snug n Amdega garden room n Kitchen/breakfast room n Utility room n Ground floor guest suite n Master bedroom suite n Garage n Equestrian facilities n Gardens, grounds, paddocks and woodland

in all just over four acres SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 147

SO TW_JUNE17_Property_JacksonStops_DPS.indd 147

25/05/2017 15:52

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 11:15

,(l!t KNIGHTS WOOD ROYAL TUNBRIDGE

WELLS

Why rent when you could own a new home at Knights Wood with Help to Buy. With just a 5% deposit now is a great time to get on the property ladder and purchase your first home.

2 & 3 bedroom homes available from £341,000

01892 800580 I knightswood.co.uk Marketing Suite open daily 10am to 5pm Knights Wood, Tunbridge Wells TN2 3GS

• YOUR HOME MAY ee REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE. This example is provided for guidance only; Da.nda,a does not offer mortgage advke~ Subject to fu ll affordability checks, you may qualify for a higher equity loan amount from the government You should take advice from .a suitably quaUfil;!!d adviser before agreeing to a mortgage. Prlces correct at time of prlnt and are

subject to change without notice.

dandara

new homes Untitled-69 3

25/05/2017 11:15

Comm

r,.

c, 11, resident· llf/t11, '"lc0 ni,. 'llh -,s~o

o,, -r

1"s1.

. ~

Whata

.§ ...

ea, :J

development opportunity looks like

C "" a, a,

cn·-

2

a, ~ Q. 0

·-I

SJD - DEVELOPING POTENTIAL If you think your property could be developed, 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.

SJD

PROJECTS LAND

& DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANTS

Call us now For regular updates, visit us at

G twitter.com/sjdprojects

Contact Stephen Donnelly on 07739 514350 or 0845 456 8969

web: sjd-projects.com • email: steve@sjd-projects.com

WE ARE ALWAYS ON THE LOOKOUT FOR PROPERTY WITH DEVELOPMENTAL POTENTIAL Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 11:22

"The team had a huge amount of knowledge and every step was handled in a professional manner. Their excellent relationship with the local planning department helped achieve a fantastic result for us. We would have no hesitation in recommending them to anyone who wants to achieve planning''.

"The cost involved to try and get planning on our land were just not feasible for us.

Working with Country House meant we didn't have to risk our money as they took care of everything"

"Guy and team at CHH did a fantastic job securing planning permission on our rear garden plot.

Although a fairly problematic application (which took over 18 months), they kept us informed throughout the entire process.

I would certainly use them again"

I

www.maximisemyland.co.uk Untitled-69 2

(H) COUNTRY HOUSE HOMES

25/05/2017 11:23

p Taste the Differen(f

e I

a I S

G1•ow

Harvest

Prepa1·e

Enjoy

Offering a wide range 01 Young veg & salad plants - asparagus, tomatoes, rhubarb crowns - Seeds - Fruit Trees & Bushes

Plus all the essential Ingredients

~~~-t/f1?$

I The

1

B Factor 1

Now is the time to prepare for

0

r

Traditional or contemporary, large or small, the designers at Gardenproud can help you create a garden you'll be proud of. Our project managers will take you through design, approvals, hard landscaping and planting.

Gardenproud was established in 2007 and is based near Tunbridge Wells. See our new Show Garden at Corker's.

IFYOU ARE PLANNING A NEW GARDEN FOR 2017THEN CONTACT TIM SYKES ON 07725173820, OR JUST GOOGLE GARDEN PROUD

Beds - Borders - Baskets - Bees Pot & Box Bedding - Alpines - Roses Summer flowering Bulbs - Climbers Cottage Garden Favourites - Herbs Trees - Exotics - Conifers - Shrubs Hanging Basket & Container

Planting Service

P Fuiiean;of brdenlssenuals

I

a n I

Tools - Fertilisers -Weed & Pest Controls Compost - Pots and Containers etc

TASTE BUDS where you can enioy a hot beverage - light lunch afternoon tea and a choice of homemade cakes

~

~

~

~ ~

We are situated on the A265 between Heathfield and Burwash Monday· Saturday 9am-5.30pm, Sunday -10.30am-4,30pm

www.petalsforplants.co.uk

S Burwash Road, Broad Oak, East Sussex TN21 8XG ~

0"1435 004"1 "I "I

152 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p152_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 152

25/05/2017 15:00

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 10:15

Arthurs Restaurant The ideal place to enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast, hearty lunch dish or an indulgent slice of delicious homemade cake

• The Gardener's Garden Centre

MMIIIMCiii·IIMiMf.Wd·UINMMM

ft Rushmore Hill •

' Knockholt, TN14 7NN

\ . 01959 532269

~

coolings.co.uk /coolingsnurseries

154 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p154_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 154

25/05/2017 15:05

GARDENS

COLOURFUL

CHARACTERS

Popping some bedding plants into tubs, baskets and boarders is a quick and easy way to brighten up your summer. Our glasshouses are packed with a tempting selection of lovely Coolings grown plants just itching for you to take them home!

Osteospermum

WORDS BY JON REBURN

Bigger established 1 litre plants are ready to go for a head start to summer.

Gazania

SUNNY-SIDE UP For those with a hot sunny position, there are plenty of dazzling seasonal plants that enjoy sunbathing. Three great choices are Gazania, Arctotis and Osteospermum. The large daisy-like flowers of all of these open up and smile with the sun! Look out for Arctotis in our July cuttings vouchers.

Arctotis

pots and containers. Simply plant and enjoy!

For those seeking an earlier display, we grow the majority of our summer patio plants in two sizes. The smaller 9cm pots are great value!

EASY ANSWERS! Looking for an easy answer to bring colour to your outside space this summer? Trixi-Mix pots could be the answer. So easy, these pre-planted combinations grow to produce different brightly coloured displays.

New this season: Keep an eye out for new cascading patio trailer Bidens Bee Alive.

It looks set to be a great addition to tubs and hanging baskets. www.coolings.co.uk New Guinea Impatiens

SHADY CHARACTERS There are lots of stupendous patio plants that prove shade does not have to be dull! Three great choices are Fuchsias, Begonias and New Guinea Impatiens. Our number one customer favourite year in year out is Champagne Begonia.

BIG IS BEAUTIFUL! Buying larger plants will give you colour earlier in the season. Look out for our amazing jumbo pot (three litre size) ready to go Geraniums, packed full of bud. We have had fantastic customer feedback on these as they flower all summer! Large Marguerites are also wonderful value and are especially good in

SO TW_JUNE17_Gardens_Coolings.indd 155

25/05/2017 09:47

t3ru&,~G Quality Garden Furniture, Delivered in Days Imagine yourself sitting in the summer sun, taking time to relax with friends and family.

Now picture yourself enjoying the garden with your feet up - care free.At Bridgman we appreciate the importance of these special moments.This is why we design Europe's most luxurious garden furniture furniture that is completely maintenance free and guaranteed to look great for years.

SHOWROOMS: Enfield, Old Amersham, Walton on Thames, Wilmslow and Winchester CALL: 020 8804 7474 VISIT: www.bridgman.co.uk

Untitled-1 1

26/05/2017 09:56

ADVERTORIAL

Gardening

MAKE IT A

CORKER CORKER ARE MAKING AN IMPACT ON LANDSCAP E GARDENING WI TH THEIR INSP IRAT IONAL SHOW GARDENS IN PADD O CK WO OD NOW OP EN. WE SP EAK TO MANAGING DIRECTOR , MICK CORKERY, TO GIVE US THE LOW-D OWN.

How did Corker first begin?

The business was first set up 16 years ago by myself and my wife Alice when we were originally named Small Loads. The rebrand saw the introduction of the new name, Corker, which officially launched this April. It is a family business with our two sons, Harry and Oli now part of the core team, along with Oli’s girlfriend and several other very hardworking members. Not forgetting company mascots, dogs, Boris and Wally.

How would you describe Corker?

We describe ourselves as an outdoor living and landscape supply business. In between a garden centre and a builder’s merchant, we can offer all the products for your dream garden.

This includes topsoil, timber,

paving, fencing, planters, outdoor furniture and more. For any outdoor projects think CORKER.

What can people expect to find when they visit Corker?

We’ve now got 10 show gardens on site that have all been professionally designed and created by local landscapers. All products that have been used within the gardens are sold on site so you can get both the inspiration and the products in one place.

Why did you decide to set up the show gardens?

We wanted to inspire people and make them

realize that no matter the size of your garden, it doesn’t have to be average. It’s incredible what you can do with even a small space and we wanted to help showcase Mick Corkery, Managing Director this. It’s also a of Corker great way to introduce visitors to landscapers who are known and trusted to us at Corker and can potentially help with garden renovations.

What makes you stand out from other businesses in a similar industry?

We believe Corker is completely unique with no other company Corker

offering the inspiration, knowledge and products that we do. However another stand out quality which we’re proud of is our customer service. In this industry, it can often be quite daunting and customers can be afraid to ask for help. We try to be as welcoming as possible and all the Corker team are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate which enables us to offer a trusted service.

What is in the future for Corker?

For the future we hope to expand and in time become a national brand that people all over the country recognise. We want anyone thinking of carrying out a garden renovation, no matter how big or small, to immediately think of Corker.

3 Westdene 3 Whetsted Road 3 Paddock Wood 3 Kent 3 TN12 6SD 3 01892 833325 3 www.corker.co.uk SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 157

SO TW_JUNE17_Advertorial_Corker.indd 157

25/05/2017 16:55

Electrlc Mowers from £99

Petrol Mowers Lawn Rlders from £169 from £1249

Lawn Tractors from £1449

Enjoy your

Garden See the latest offers and search for your local dealer at mountfleldl.awnmowers.co.uk or call 0800 669 6325

Mountfield

158 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p158_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 158

26/05/2017 11:12

GARDENS 7 TIPS 7

Small Garden ideas

COMING UP

ROSES

Our gardening expert Victoria Truman shares her advice for what to do around the garden this June With summer in full flow, June is one of the best gardening months, simply because of the sight and the scent of roses. Now is the time to renovate the rose garden.

•Deadhead repeat-flowering roses, unless you want decorative hips later.

•Potassium-rich banana skins make excellent rose snacks. Lay flat around the plant and bury under an inch of soil.

•Underplant roses with lavender-blue Aster x frikartii, species salvias or aromatic herbs to disguise bare stems, or against a backdrop of tall purple fountain grass or ‘Elijah Blue’ fescue.

•If you haven’t fed your roses this year, do it now because vigorously growing roses are less likely to succumb to disease attack, and again during July using a specific rose fertiliser such as J. Arthur Bowers rose food.

It’s also worth maintaining a thick mulch over the soil surface to make sure the roses do not suffer stress due to lack of water.

•Within the herbaceous border there’s always a lull before the main summer rush arrives, when there’s plenty of foliage but not enough flower to satisfy the gardener or the bees commonly known as the June gap. To supplement the spaces within the flowering herbaceous borders I scatter annual wildflower seeds amongst the perennials to bridge the gap, as they germinate quickly.

•Remember to water–Watering is essential as the weather warms up.

Give your garden a big drink once or twice a week to draw plant roots deeper into the nutritious soil.

Containers and hanging baskets will need watering once a day – perhaps twice a day if it is hot and windy.

•For larger shrubs and trees, leave a hose dribbling around the base for an hour.

Your hedges can be watered with a homemade “trickle hose” – a length of old hose pierced with tiny holes.

The small garden is tricky to get right because, inevitably, we try to fit too much into a limited space. Invest in what counts. Don’t just look at what’s inside the box look at the box itself.

The boundary is the most important feature.

It’s what you look at from inside the house. Think of boundaries as backdrops to hang things on, to light up or to paint. They can function in different ways.

A fence, for instance, might be a slatted timber screen in a series of horizontal lines. Paint the fence dark grey, plant bamboo in front, and you get a striking contrast.

Just because your garden has three sides to it, and the house makes four sides, you don’t need to make the space a predictable box. Change one of the sides, like having a feature wall in a room.

Any feature in a small garden should have at least two functions. A seat should have storage space, a wall should be decorative as well as practical, a tree should have blossom in spring and fruit in autumn.

Privacy is a big issue in the town garden.

You don’t need to cut everything out, it’s more psychological: you just need a sense of privacy.

A seat near a small tree will enable you to see out through the leaves to the neighbours’ buildings, set your seating area at the side of the garden, so you have your back to something, which makes you feel protected.

Town gardens are used throughout the year, so you need at least 30 per cent evergreen, keep the shapes to a minimum and view them as pieces of sculpture that are part of the design. That will give you more freedom to do what you want with the rest of the planting.

Key to a good design is to steel yourself to leave empty space - that most valuable of commodities.

Don’t be tempted to fill every last corner. www.victoriatruman.com

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 159

SO TW_JUNE17_Gardens_The Great Outdoors.indd 159

25/05/2017 09:48

Front Cut Ride-on Mowers From£2399 • Articulated steering for manoeuvrability • 2WD and 4WD models available Latest Briggs & Stratton engines

80 Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Mowers From£529

85cm to 125cm cutting decks

Power equivalent to a 100cc petrol engine Cuts up to 1000m2 on !charge

• Powered by the latest Briggs & Stratton engines Choose between mulching or grass collection • 66cm to 122cm cutting decks • Available for any size garden

• 40% quieter than petrol

EXPERIENCE

AWARD

WI ACCOUNTANCY NI Proud to be

part of the Whiting and Hammond Team

160 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p160_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 160

26/05/2017 09:49

GARDENS OKA

PICCHU CUSHION COVER, SMALL, £52

www.oka.com

FESTIVAL FASHION T H I S M O N T H , B R I N G T H E PA R T Y T O YO U W I T H A LL T H I N G S C O L O U R F U L , VIBRANT AND FREE – TRY SOME OF THESE I TEMS TO ADD A SPLASH OF C O L O U R T O YO U R G A R D E N J U S T I N T I M E F O R F E S T I VA L S E A S O N

KSL LIVING

WOODEN CANDLE HOLDER, £129.81

www.ksl-living.fr

OKA

ARAGONEZ PLATE, SET OF FOUR, £78.00

www.oka.com

EINRICHTHEN-DESIGN

SUNNY STUHLY MOROSO, £695.90

www.einrichten-design.de

BLACK BY DESIGN

TWEEDMILL POLO PICNIC RUG WITH WATERPROOF BACKING & LEATHER STRAPS

www.black-by-design.co.uk

DESIGN3000

TIIPII HÄNGE-BETT, £302.85

www.design-3000.de

SO Magazine / JUNE 2017 / 161

SO TW_JUNE17_GardenProducts.indd 161

25/05/2017 09:43

Commercial Flooring Contnctors

Your Loca l Independent Carpet & Flooring Retailer Tilsmore Court, 89 High Street, Heathfield, East Sussex TN2 l 8JA Tel: 01435 862000

Unit 5 Bell Lane, Bell brook Industrial Estate, Uckfield, East sussex TN22 l QL Tel: 01825 766422 sa les@pen nellsca rpets. com www.pennellscarpets.com 162 \ JUNE 2017 \ SO Magazine

p162_SO TW_JUNE17_Advert.indd 162

26/05/2017 09:50

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 11:24

By Appointm eUI 10

Mer Majesty The Queen Jeweller 0 . II ins & Sons Limited Royal T unbrid~e Wells

~.

Qtollins & $,ons --------路路-------NUMBER

- - - - - - - - 路路 - - - - - - - -

Visit us in our bespoke wedding rings boutique for your private consultation with our experts.

Untitled-69 2

25/05/2017 11:25