MMM Magazine November 2014 edition

Issue 34, November 2014 Complimentary

BLUE ISIS ‘BLUE’ THE COLOUR The ups and downs of singer and actor Lee Ryan

THE BAKE OFF STAR WITH THE HOLLYWOOD STYLE

s

OTHER feature

Shane ‘Shakey’ Byrne’s high-speed ambitions

Here it comes...ready or

PLUS

ess, ts, Busin t, n e v E l, men Trave ntertain E , y r e o t His uch mor m , h c u And m

not...panto season!

WIN! Christmas Afternoon Tea

Fraser Hart_mmm master 22/10/2014 14:34 Page 1

Fraser Hart_mmm master 22/10/2014 14:34 Page 2

Village Panto DPS_mmm master 24/10/2014 10:29 Page 1

Village Panto DPS_mmm master 24/10/2014 10:29 Page 2

MMM master edit - Copy (2)_mmm master 24/10/2014 18:04 Page 1

6 mmm

Welcome

welcome note_mmm master 23/10/2014 10:29 Page 7

It may only seem the other day that we were still enjoying the last rays of summer, but, deep breath, Christmas is just around the corner.

Can you believe it?

Certainly this year I am vowing to get ahead of myself in my planning and ensure I don't leave everything to the last minute.

The good thing now is that this is the ideal time to get ahead of the rest and ensure you book up your festive parties.

There are some fantastic venues around the county offering the chance to book up the perfect family get together or work 'do'. Take my advice – don't delay and book up today!

While you're pondering how to organise the perfect Christmas, we've been working hard to bring you another great magazine packed full of interesting articles to keep you entertained.

One trip which forms a key part of many people's celebrations is one to the theatre for the fun of the pantomime. We take a special look at all the big productions taking place in the county, some of which get under way at the end of the month.

Cooking is something which many of us associate with the festive season – so who better to learn more about than the man who has helped inspire a new generation of bakers. Paul Hollywood is one of the judges on the Great British Bake Off. We look at his remarkable rise to success and his family life in Kent.

Elsewhere we look at British Superbikes local champion Shane 'Shakey' Byrne, fresh from his triumph at Brands Hatch last month, and ‘Blue’ star Lee Ryan who rose from humble beginnings in Chatham to global fame.

So sit back and enjoy mmm – and don't hesitate to let us know what you think.

mmm 7

EDMED

LTD Warming Homes Throughout Kent Since 1917

• Full Installation of Wood Burning Stoves • Bespoke Service Professionally Managed from Design through to Completion • Specialist in Unique Custom made to measure Granite and Slate Hearths

See you next month!

Rasa

Tel: 01634 420319 Mobile: 07976688437 Newington Ind Est, Newington, Sittingbourne, Kent, ME9 7NU

www.edmedcoal.co.uk

63

mmm MMM Media Ltd GHL House 1st Floor 12-14 Albion Place Maidstone Kent ME14 5DZ Tel: 01622 299035 sales@mmm-media.com www.mmm-media.com Publisher Rasa Dregva Editor Tom White Travel Editor Tricia Lester Design Matthew Jones Karen Oliver Sales Dawn Long Sue Houghton Accounts Kerry Head

53 11

paul hollywood The Bake off star with the hollywood style

18

Food Cooking up our November recipes

32

paNTo your essential guide to the county’s biggest and best shows

36

lee ryaN The ups and downs of singer and actor lee ryan

42

Travel discover amazing africa and The Marvellous Merano

53

keepiNg warM This wiNTer mmm takes you through three choices to help keep your home warm and cosy

Further contribution Robin J Brooks Christine Furlonger

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. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. © MMM Media Ltd 2014

mm mW

60

properTy The latest kent property on the market in sutton valence

63

shaNe ByrNe shane ‘shakey’ Byrne’s high-speed ambitions

67

MoTors The newest Ford Mondeo model

72

BusiNess local business news in kent

77

reMeMBraNCe day - poppies Robin Brooks reflects on an act of remembrance

80

eveNTs what’s on in and around kent this month

edd ing s

•G or ge •S ou tu • M nnin s we dd gs ar ing ve ho llo e dr ak u ess e sm s •S sa es na nd en ps sw ca ho ea rs tp r ho tog rap hy Sp •C

on

so

re

d

by

Vi

lla

ge

Hot

el,

M

aids

to

ne

mmm 9

11

42

82

50

36

32

77

p10_mmm master 24/10/2014 20:48 Page 20

10 mmm

mmm 11

The Bake Off sTar with the hollywood style From an artisan bakery in Kent to one of the nation’s best known stars...we serve up a generous helping of Paul Hollywood

f you are one of the few not to have fallen under the spell of the Great British Bake Off, the elevated fame of Paul Hollywood may well have passed you by.

But as the grey-bearded, blue-eyed judge, he has become one of the most recognisable faces in Britain.

And it doesn’t end there. He’s attracted a US audience too after his success on this side of the Atlantic brought him to the attention to TV producers on the other side of the pond.

As one half of the Bake Off judging panel – he shares duties with Mary Berry – he is a key ingredient in the recipe that has made the BBC show such a remarkable hit.

The final of this year’s show – which was won by Nancy Birtwhistle – was viewed by a remarkable 13.3 million viewers.

To put that into some context, that’s more than any other programme shown on BBC1 this year – including even the FIFA World Cup final.

Little wonder, then, that Paul Hollywood’s star continues to rise.

I

“It shouldn’t work,” he says of the show, “but it does. And it’s because of all the different cogs. Take one cog out and it won’t work.

“Where it works, is its nostalgia. Its something which takes people back to watching their parents or grandparents cook when they were a kid.”

It’s certainly a lucrative career move. Recent reports suggested he will receive £500,000 to present Bake Off next year, while he is also thought to pull in hundreds of thousands through book deals and a successful series of tours.

Born in Wallasey in 1966, baking was always in his blood. His father had a bakery on the east coast, which expanded into a host of venues, including Merseyside.

But the young Hollywood’s first love was art – leaving school to study sculpture at the Wallasey School of Art. The lure of the kitchen would prove too much, however, and he quit the course to join his father’s firm.

“One of my earliest memories is my dad bringing back iced buns from his bakery.

“I also remember how I would be sitting at home watching the wrestling, or whatever on a Saturday a

12 mmm

afternoon, and dad made these dough balls and covered them up with a cloth in front of a gas fire which was stuck on a wall. They were rising. In my head, I think they were the best rolls I’ve ever had. If there was a starting point for me, that was it.”

Determined to dazzle in his career, he quickly outgrew the family firm, with his skills leading him to become head baker at some of the most exclusive hotels – among them the Dorchester and Cliveden.

With his reputation established as one of the country’s finest artisan bakers, he travelled extensively through the likes of Egypt, Jordan and Cyprus, visiting remote villages to learn the ancient bread-making techniques used.

Enriched with the knowledge, he returned with plans to start his own business – and with the woman who would become his wife – Alexandra.

The couple opted to settle in Aylesham, near Canterbury.

And it was there he launched businesses which included the Paul Hollywood Artisan Bread Company.

It once laid claim to producing the nation’s most expensive loaf – available from the plush Harrods in London and yours for a mere £15.

With deals in place with a number of stores such as Waitrose, the business underlined his reputation – finally having to close last year as a consequence of his media interests.

His media career began way back in 2002 when he co-presented two TV series with popular celebrity chef James Martin.

Various other presenting jobs would come about until, in 2010, he hit the big time when the BBC invited him to star alongside Mary Berry as a judge in its new bakery contest – the Great British Bake Off. Such was its appeal it immediately became a huge hit.

After four seasons during which it was credited with sparking a revival in home bakery, it was BBC2’s most popular show, prompting it to switch to BBC1 for this year’s airing.

There’s no sign yet either, of the baker falling out of love with the show.

“Mary and I are always laughing and messing about on set with the presenters Mel and Sue, I’m not sure what sets it off half the time.a

MMM master edit - Copy (2)_mmm master 24/10/2014 17:25 Page 1

mmm 13

RIPON PAINTED OAK

JUST ARRIVED COTSWOLD PAINTED RECLAIMED PINE FULLY ASSEMBLED ALL IN STOCK

JUST ARRIVED COTSWOLD BEAUTIFUL RECLAIMED PINE FULLY ASSEMBLED ALL IN STOCK

BAHAMA RECLAIMED PINE

14 mmm

“It can sometimes be something as small as the way Mel or Sue look at me.”

For Paul Hollywood, it elevated him to a stardom which brought with it huge riches – but huge strain too.

After being hired to host the US version of Bake Off, the American Baking Competition on CBS in 2013, he had a highly publicised affair with co-host Marcela Valldolid.

Later describing it as the “biggest mistake of my life” he separated from his wife and young family as divorce proceedings got under way.

However, the couple reconciled at the end of last year and friends say Hollywood continues to go out of his way to ensure his wife is only too aware of his affections for her.

According to a friend talking to a national newspaper,

Hollywood is now “totally assiduous”.

They added: “He rings her three times every day when he is working away, he buys her flowers every week, he buys her little things from artisan chocolates to really old recipe books he’s come across.

“It’s like he wants Alex to absolutely know she is first and foremost in his mind.

“A couple of years ago he’d be all sheepishly pleased when women came up to him and he would pretend to hate all the comments about his eyes and his looks, but he was secretly delighted. Now he genuinely finds it uncomfortable.”

The couple have a son, Joshua, who Paul describes as “my life”.a

MMM master edit_mmm master 24/10/2014 18:02 Page 1

mmm 15

16 mmm

mmm 17

Further TV success continued with Paul Hollywood’s Bread on BBC2 last year, and he continues to be a regular on both the BBC and ITV. He’s no stranger in and around the county either. Just last month he was at the Broadstairs Food Festival, supporting local Bake Off contestant Chetna, and got behind the wheel of a go-kart at Chatham’s Buckmore Park for a special charity event.

Keep an eagle eye out too, as he is a keen motorcyclist – and loves to spend what little free time he has riding around the county.

With Bake Off showing no signs of losing its wide appeal, it seems unlikely Paul Hollywood will be disappearing from our screens any time soon – all of which will be good news for all those who fall under his spell. mmm

18 mmm

mmm

Food

Chocolate Heaven Recipe by Tudor Park Marriott Hotel & Country Club

Ingredients For the chocolate mousse: 170g dark chocolate 7 egg whites Quarter teaspoon lemon juice 45g caster sugar Shot of kirsch to taste For the chocolate sponge: 150g unsalted butter, softened 150g sugar 110g self-raising flour 40g cocoa powder 3 eggs For the chocolate coating: 500ml double cream 250g dark chocolate Method First make the sponge – preheat the oven to 180c and begin by creaming the sugar and butter together in a bowl until light and fluffy. You can do this by hand or with an electric whisk.

Sieve together the cocoa powder and self-raising flour and fold into the butter mixture. Beat the eggs and gradually beat into the cake mix. Pour into a square 18cm cake tin, lined with baking parchment, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean. Leave to cool.

To make the mousse, break the chocolate

into a small bowl and sit it over a saucepan of simmering water. Make sure the bowl does not touch the water.

Stir occasionally until melted.

In a clean bowl, whisk the eggs whites and lemon juice into soft peaks. Add the sugar and continue to whisk until it forms firm peaks. With a metal spoon, fold about a third of the egg white mixture into the melted chocolate. Then pour this mixture back into the remaining egg whites and fold until blended. Add the kirsch to taste.

Pour into individual glass moulds of your choice, and place in the fridge. Leave overnight to set.

To make the chocolate coating for the sponge – place the chocolate in a saucepan with the cream and bring to the boil until melted. Cut the sponge into individual rectangles. Place on a cooling rack and coat the sponges with the chocolate sauce. Leave to cool to form a shiny coating. To serve your chocolate heaven, place your mousse moulds into warm water for a few seconds and then invert the mousse onto a plate. Place a slice of chocolate sponge next to the mousse, and serve with a scoop of good quality vanilla ice cream and a dusting of cocoa powder.

p19_mmm master 24/10/2014 20:16 Page 20

for s ne king lable o vai o e as s b m a Ple tma roo n ris tio Ch e func t va pri o ph

Magazine

Pad Thai

mmm 19

RESTAURANT

A Unique Experience at West Malling

Name: Address:

Postcode: Phone Number:

#

Length of subscription 3 months @ £6 6 months @ £12 12 months @ £24

Cut out or photocopy this form and send a cheque payable to: MMM-Media Ltd GHL House, 1st Floor, 12-14 Albion Place Maidstone, Kent ME14 5DZ

DON’T MISS OUT

Become a subscriber – just pay £24 p&p for a year and we willl send you the next 12 magazines hot off the press

Open: Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Lunch 12 - 2.30pm 12 - 2.30pm 12 - 2.30pm 12 - 2.30pm 12 - 2.30pm

Dinner 5.30 - 10.30pm 5.30 - 10.30pm 5.30 - 10.30pm 5.30 - 11pm 5.30 - 11.30pm

T: 01732 870 000 www.pad-thai.co.uk manta@pad-thai.co.uk 15 HIGH STREET, WEST MALLING, KENT ME19 6QH

u en m e as labl tm vai s i a r Ch now

OPEN ALL DAY SUNDAY Traditional Sunday Lunch until 6pm

CHRISTMAS FAYRE Lunches £23.95 Evenings £26.95 CHRISTMAS DAY £69.95 BOXING DAY £38.95 NEW YEARS EVE £69.95

• Air-conditioning • Ample parking

The Vineyard restaurant offers an extensive selection of exquisite seafood, French and Italian A la cuisine The ideal venue for family gatherings, special celebrations or casual dining

Three courses £19.95 for Adults, and £12.95 for Children under 12 A la carte menu always available

A20 London RoadWrotham Heath TN15 7RU t:01732 882330 w:dine@thevineyardrestaurant.co.uk e:thevineyardrestaurant.co.uk

20 mmm

Belgium Congo Mussels Recipe by Franks Restaurant and Mussel Bar Ingredients: 1kg of fresh mussels 2 sticks of celery Half a white onion 2 cloves of chopped garlic 1 small tin of chopped tomatoes 2 teaspoons of tabasco sauce 2 fresh red chillies Teaspoon of dried chilli flakes Half a cup of white wine Samphire Chopped parsley 1 lemon A Knob of butter Method First, prepare the mussels by washing then removing the ‘hair like’ part from the shell with a tough pull using your fingers and knocking off any barnacles using the back edge of a knife. Make sure you discard any open or broken shelled mussels. Now, chop and dice celery, onion and garlic into a mussel pot (ideally) if not a saucepan with a lid will do. Heat this with a knob of butter until ingredients start to brown, then add the mussels with half a cup of white wine and place the lid on top to steam for eight – ten minutes. As the pot starts to steam and mussels begin to open add the following ingredients: chopped fresh red chilli, dried chilli flakes, tabasco sauce, samphire, parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. Replace the lid and heat for a further few minutes until the rest of the ingredients are nice and hot!

Once all mussels are open they are ready to be served with a wedge of lemon – for those who like it extra hot add more tabasco. Mussels are best accompanied with frites and mayonnaise or bread on the side.

WIN

p21_mmm master 24/10/2014 11:20 Page 20

Christmas Afternoon Tea for Two

mmm 21

For a chance to win, simply fill this out, cut out and send it to us by 30th November 2014.

mmm Media Ltd, GHL House, 1st Floor, 12-14 Albion Place, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 5DZ Name.......................................................... ....................................................................

Address....................................................... .................................................................... .................................................................... ....................................................................

# Christmas Bookings now being taken Air conditioned and spacious restaurant.

Open 7 Days A Week

12 noon - 2.30pm & 6pm - Midnight (inc Bank Holidays)

14 London Road, Maidstone ME16 8QL

Book Now on

01622 763360 or 01622 763770

www.mughaldynasty.com

Tel...............................................................

Email........................................................... ....................................................................

We cater for party bookings with seating for up to 100 people.

We have up to 80 free car parking spaces available at the rear of the restaurant.

The Hengist.

Exquisite dining comes to Maidstone this Christmas and New Year...

Come along to The Hengist and celebrate in style; a wonderful welcome awaits you this festive season with our exquisite menus and luxurious atmosphere

Christmas Day Lunch £75 per person

New Year’s Eve Tasting Menu £100 with Bubbles at Midnight

To make your reservation or for further details...

Christmas & New Year

Christmas Party Menu

£30 per person

STARTERS

MAINS

DESSERTS

Smoked Venison Scotch Egg Parsley Mayonnaise and Herb Salad ••• Heritage Beetroot Galette Whipped Goat’s Cheese and Hazelnut ••• Smoked Ham Hock Terrine Caramelised Cauliflower Purée, Pear and Tomato Chutney ••• Salmon Tartare Spiced Squid, Lime and Avocado

Roast Rolled Turkey with Sage and Onion Stuffing Pigs in Blankets, Honey Roast Carrots and Parsnip, Cranberry Jus ••• Braised Ox Cheek Wild Mushrooms, Confit Baby Onions and Smoked Potato Purée ••• Pan Fried Plaice Sea Vegetables, New Potatoes and Sauce Vierge ••• Cheddar Cheese Velouté Potato Gratin, Brussel Sprouts, Heritage Carrots

Steamed Christmas Pudding Eggnog and Burnt Butter Ice Cream ••• Banana Toad Butterscotch ‘Gravy’ with a hint of White Rum, Cinnamon Ice Cream ••• Chocolate Marquise, Caramelized Popcorn, Peanut Butter Ice Cream ••• A selection of our Kentish Cheese, Quince Chutney, homemade Fruit Bread and Biscuit.

••• Coffee and Mince Pies

01622 885800 or www.hengistrestaurant.co.uk

Fremlins Walk DPS_mmm master 23/10/2014 15:32 Page 1

Fremlins Walk DPS_mmm master 23/10/2014 15:32 Page 2

Cartier La Panthère Eau de Parfum, 50ml, £75 John Lewis

Armani Jeans Bag, £145 House of Fraser

Formula Age Replenish Luxury Skincare Gift Box, £60 Marks and Spencers

Burgundy Leather Gloves, £140 House of Fraser

Aonda, £79 Dune

No.1 Jenny Packham, £45 Debenhams

Gifts for her

Available from Debenhams

p27_mmm master 24/10/2014 11:33 Page 20

mmm 27

SOHAIRDRESSING Award Winning Salon

Our mission is to produce the highest quality creative hairdressing, with 5* service and panache.

To provide individual personal design, to be welcoming, professional and friendly.

To be leaders in education, producing the most creative hairdressers, at the forefront in fashion and hair design.

We listen, we advise and we create

01622 739001

enquiries@sohairdressing.com www.sohairdressing.com

Omega Seamaster Diver Men’s Stainless Steel Watch, £2,770 Fraser Hart

Hugo Boss Bottled Shower Gel, 150ml, £20 House of Fraser Silver Compass Cufflinks, £20 Debenhams

Charcoal ‘Epsom’ Coat, £300 and Lingwood Grey Stripe Jumper, £75, Linea Black Straight Leg Jeans, £60, Criminal Black Leather Bag, £430 House of Fraser

Apple iPad Mini, £199 Argos

Gifts for him Paco Rabanne 1 Million Cologne, 100ml, £47 John Lewis

p29_mmm master 24/10/2014 21:49 Page 20

mmm 29

WOO D SD E SIG N ER CL O T HI N G

Woods Designer Clothing is probably

Kent’s leading independent fashion store Woods have been selling designer clothes to both Men and Women since 1989 and are the official

registered stockists for most of the big names in the fashion industry.

Priding themselves on finding those new

and upcoming brands that have something a bit

special that makes them stand out from the rest.

Stockists of men’s and women’s brands including

Hugo Boss

MA. Strum

Armani

Alexander McQueen

Scotch & Soda

Day Birger

True Religion

Samsoe

Nicole Farhi

Esemplare

1 Royal Star Arcade Maidstone ME14 1JL

7 Railway Street Chatham ME4 4HU

J. Lindeberg

01622 766262

J Brand

01634 832147

Find us on Twitter and Facebook

p30_mmm master 24/10/2014 19:28 Page 20

30 mmm

p31_mmm master 24/10/2014 20:22 Page 20

mmm 31

Homewood Orchard Nursery

Christmas Trees

• Lights • Decorations • Holly Wreaths & Novelties • Nordman & Norwegian Spruce Luxury Trees Without a doubt the largest selection of the best value and quality trees.

Green and blue, potted and rooted no drop Christmas trees.

Hollywreathes and quality tree stands

Wholesale enquires welcome

Open - Mon-Sat - 9am to 5.30pm & Sun - 9am to 4pm

01622 727103 / 07889 312557 Farleigh Lane Maidstone Kent ME16 9LX

Buckmore Park Bluebell Hill Kent ME5 9QG

MMM master edit_mmm master 24/10/2014 16:19 Page 1

mmm 33

36 mmm

Blue is the colour The ups and downs of singer and actor Lee Ryan

t has been quite a year for Lee Ryan.

As he bid farewell to 2013, his agent had secured him a place in the Celebrity Big Brother house, due to start filming in January.

It would be the perfect opportunity for him.

Having seen his solo career slip to the point he was released from his record label, and a sometimes fraught private life, he had opted in recent years to rejoin his band mates in the boy band Blue.

They had enjoyed moderate success, riding a wave of nostalgia which failed to reignite the glories they had enjoyed in the past.

Celebrity Big Brother could prove the springboard Ryan needed to propel himself back into the spotlight.

And there was no denying it did just that. The long-term repercussions, however, highlighted both the pros and cons of television’s most celebrated reality TV show platform.

Because after his stay in the house he emerged to as many boos as he did cheers.

His womanising antics – clearly caught on camera as he played model Casey Batchelor against actress Jasmine Waltz – did him no favours with a public so keen to see a famous figure fall flat on their face.

It certainly sent him crashing back into the headlines – but for all the wrong reasons. And it was the hate messages, death threats and negative headlines he received during his time in the Big Brother house, which his defence lawyer cited when he was later banned from driving after being stopped by police, to whom he was abusive, and failing to give a sample.

Yet the negative headlines threaten to tarnish a remarkable story of how, at such a young age, he became a key part of one of pop music’s big success stories.

Born in Chatham in June 1983, his parents separated when he was six and he was raised by his mother Sheila, a hairdresser.

It was a modest upbringing and he says that it was a result of having nothing as a child to suddenly earning a fortune as a teenager with Blue, that saw him splash the cash with little thought of the repercussions.

I

“We had very little when I was growing up,” he says, “but when you suddenly come into money you can get lost quite quickly. Or at least I did. Money management isn’t really my thing. I gave a lot of it away.”

Living with his mother, grandmother and sister, he attended Bedonwell School in Belvedere, having to struggle after being diagnosed with dyslexia when he was five, before his desire to follow a career in the arts saw him attend the Sylvia Young Theatre School and the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts.

With handsome looks and a beautiful soul voice, he had all the ingredients necessary for the big time.

And when he was just 15, he found himself on the path to success.

Attending an audition on ITV’s This Morning programme for a boy band being brought together by

X Factor star Simon Cowell, he met 17-year-old Antony Costa for the first time – his future Blue band mate.

Ryan made the final cut – although Costa did not – but the two boys remained close.

The newly-formed group – which also included singer Will Young, some two years before he triumphed on Pop Idol – failed to set the world on fire and disappeared into obscurity.

But Ryan and Costa kept their dreams alive and in 2000, after Costa had teamed up with pal Duncan James, Ryan joined them.

Their manager at the time, Daniel Glatman said: “I was completely blown away by the incredibly talented stars that stood before me.”

But something was missing – and that was filled by Ryan’s flat mate, Simon Webbe. a

38 mmm

With Blue now together, they signed a record deal and within a year had released their debut single – All Rise.

It was a huge hit – rising to number four in the chart, before being followed by the number one hit, Too Close.

From nowhere, Blue were suddenly one of the biggest names in the industry – and for the young stars it meant a level of fame they could not have imagined.

After jetting over to New York to film the Too close video, they witnessed the terrible attacks on the World Trade Centre.

Interviewed in the Sun newspaper, Ryan said: “This New York thing is being blown out of proportion.

“What about whales? They are ignoring animals that are more important. Animals need saving and that’s more important.”

Unsurprisingly, it sparked an angry backlash and calls for Ryan to be booted out of the band. It also saw any hopes of breaking the highly competitive US market dashed, as a record deal they had in the States was dropped.

But the Blue success story continued, with high profile duets with the likes of Stevie Wonder and Elton John cementing their position at the top of the charts.

By 2005 the band, still enjoying success, announced they were going to take a break to concentrate on solo projects.

For Ryan, that solo career started brightly, with Army of Lovers reaching number three, but the chart positions started to dwindle, despite When I Think Of You being used in the movie Ice Age: The Meltdown.

The deals kept coming though and in late 2005 he signed with fashion brand Dolce & Gabbana to promote its range in the UK. A second album planned for 2007 was shelved, however.

A short-lived stay on Hell’s Kitchen, the reality TV show, saw him row with chef Marco Pierre White and he left the show.

He then turned his attention to the stage with a role in The Pretender Agenda at a London theatre.

But his main passion remained music and in 2010 he signed a new record deal, only to see his lead single under perform - limping to number 33 in the charts - and the album, once again cancelled.

While this was happening he’d had a roller-coaster private life. In 2008 he was fined by magistrates for assaulting a taxi driver.

Meanwhile he had found happiness, temporarily at least, with hairdresser Samantha Millar who he had met the previous year through his MySpace internet fan page.

By 2008 they were engaged and she had given birth to their son, Rayn.

But by 2010, the relationship had soured and Ryan was charged with assault after allegedly hitting Millar.

The charges were later dropped, but the couple parted.

However, they seem to have subsequently patched up their differences and remain friends.

The following year, the long-awaited Blue reunion took place as the group represented the UK in the 2011 Eurovision Song Contest. a

MMM master edit_mmm master 24/10/2014 16:23 Page 1

mmm 39

p40_mmm master 24/10/2014 19:20 Page 20

40 mmm

‘Uniquely designed for you’

We are Sawmills Bespoke Furniture Limited a Kent based manufacturer and retailer of bespoke wooden furniture.

We specialise in designing and manufacturing contemporary and traditional custom made furniture of different styles and periods.

For more information or a free consultation, please do not hesitate to contact us or alternatively, pop in to our showroom at Bethersden, Ashford, Kent.

01233 822276 www.sawmillsbespokefurniture.co.uk

Units 4 & 5 Colt Works Pluckley Road Bethersden Ashford Kent TN25 3DD

Follow us on....

mmm 41

They finished in eleventh place, blaming political voting for their failure to do better.

With the group reformed, and appearing on the ITV show The Big Reunion, the band went back on the road again in 2013, supporting new album Roulette.

But then came Celebrity Big Brother.

And as the nation watched Ryan first flirt outrageously with Page 3 model Casey Batchelor, he then dumped her for Jasmine Waltz.

After they exited the house, they had a brief relationship before splitting – Ryan’s ego being cited as the main stumbling block.

So it is back to Blue once again – with Simon Webbe revealing during his stint on Strictly Come Dancing, that the group have a new album ready for release in 2015.

Whether they can build on their success – much of it overseas – remains to be seen.

For Lee Ryan, it would appear, being part of a group is a far better ticket to success than when he’s left to his own devices. mmm

42 mmm

Amazing AfricA Wherever you travel and whatever you experience, nothing can match this incredible continent t is impossible to describe Africa to someone who is visiting for the first time without resorting to pages and pages or superlatives, but there is no space for that, so how do you do this, to show a continent that takes in stunning scenery, amazing wildlife, excellent accommodation and great people.

Perhaps the first impression is that of space with huge vistas at every turn, complemented by big skies and distant horizons. These vistas provide the visitor with unforgettable memories – Table Mountain at dawn, sunset on Victoria Falls, elephants with Mt Kilimanjaro as

i

a back drop and tens of thousands of wildebeest on their annual migration around the Serengeti.

And there are many other images that will delight whale mothers and their calves playing in the sheltered bays of South Africa, a first sighting of a leopard in the Kruger National Park, ancient landscapes in Nambia and the lakes of the Great Rift Valley.

On arriving at the airport and visiting the cities, one gets a feeling of coming home and this is strengthened when the cities are left behind and the visitor ventures out into the ancient lands of mountain, bush, plain and

mmm 43

coast. Here is the real Africa that many thousands of years ago gave life to our ancestors and the feeling of being at one with the land is often overwhelming.

Planning a trip to Africa needs careful consideration and expertise, as it can be easy to try to include too much in the time available. The distances can be vast and ensuring that the transport is organised and arranged to maximise the best of the time available, is critical.

Depending on the country or countries chosen, options include small group escorted touring, selfdriving, flying holidays and even luxury rail options.

Africa is blessed with a huge choice of incredible accommodation, from luxury hotels and safari lodges, to stunning guest houses and hideaway retreats.

The number one reason people visit Africa is to take a safari of some kind and here too, there are many choices of destination, type of trip, duration and standard. For example, these can range from luxurious lodge stays, to walking safaris and from canoeing trips to horse riding to. However, it has to be remembered that it is not a theme park and the wildlife does not perform to a timetable. The guides and rangers who are experts at searching out the wildlife and take pride in ensuring that guests have an individual and personal wildlife viewing experience. a

MMM master edit_mmm master 24/10/2014 16:40 Page 1

44 mmm

mmm 45

It should also be noted that Africa is predominately in the tropics with various health requirements that should be adhered to and the advice of your own medical practitioner should be taken in this regard.

In addition, the weather can be extreme in certain areas at certain times of year and again, proper planning with an expert is essential to ensure that you understand not only where, but when to go.

There is an old African proverb – “Let him speak who has seen with his eyes” and once Africa has been seen with your eyes, you too will speak of its wonders. There is one certainty about Africa – a visitor will always yearn to return.

If you would like to find out more about this fascinating continent, then please contact Baldwins Travel on t: 01622 762141 or visit our website www.baldwinstravel.co.uk

Classic Collect_mmm master 24/10/2014 20:25 Page 1

46 mmm

Marvellous Merano An educational report by Joanne Britton from Travelux of Tenterden

convenient afternoon flight from Gatwick with Aer Lingus took us to the gateway of the South Tyrol region. From Verano, we had a two hour scenic drive through vineyards with an alpine backdrop, arriving at the pretty spa town of Merano: our destination from which to explore for the next four days.

Previously Austrian, South Tyrol became Italy’s most northern province after the First World War. With Italian, German and Latin spoken in the province, culturally and linguistically the region is unique to Italy. Merano is situated in a valley alongside the Passirio River and has a Mediterranean climate. Against the contrasts of historical buildings sits the modern Therme Spa, allowing locals and visitors to enjoy the beneficial mineral waters. Despite being located in the centre of town, there are a number of differing heated pools, sunbathing areas and a cafe, so a whole day can be spent relaxing here.

Merano is a mecca for walking and cycling enthusiasts with an extensive network for all levels. The new cable car connects Merano with the high plateau of Merano 2000, which is in the heart of the hiking/skiing area.

A popular short walk to Knottnkino (Rock Cinema) provides surpassing views of the valley and mountains, which can be enjoyed from the wooden cinema style seats. Merano 2000‘s new attraction Lucki’s Kinderland play area and the two person bobsled is great for families. There is also a choice of mountain inn’s offering traditional Tyrolean dishes.

Hiking and cycling trails are well signposted, but local guides can lead walks to gain a better insight to the local way of life. We walked the gentle 6km Lagundo Waalweg path which starts in Merano town and follows one of the many irrigation channels supporting the grapevines. Along the way we stopped at many viewpoints across the valley and stopped for refreshments halfway. a

a

48 mmm

Cycle routes can be gentle or challenging depending on whether you opt for valley paths, high alpine trails or the manual or turbo setting on your electric bike! Manual bikes are also for hire and they are available to rent at various rail stations. This gives you the opportunity to use the Merancard (complimentary with selected operators) which offers free use of the public transport system. The Venosta Valley Bike Route from Malles to Merano along a Roman road is approximately three and a half hours, train part-way is optional. However, the Michelin-star restaurant and bistro Kuppelrain is compulsory!

Another must see in the region is the Trauttmansdorff Castle, internationally recognised as ‘Garden of the Year 2013’. This twelve hectare natural and man-made landscape is divided into four gardens of the world: Forests of the World, Mediterranean, Water and Terraced gardens and South Tyrol indigenous plant life.

Built around the castle, this is a beautiful setting in which to spend the day meandering at leisure.

As the area is a successful wine growing region, a visit to the Merano winery was a highlight. The winery is built from materials designed to reflect the natural elements used in the winemaking process, i.e. oak from the barrels, steel vats to process the wine and glass to hold the wine. After a guided tour, visitors have the opportunity to sample the wines (and purchase) overlooking the vineyard. Not forgetting, with increased appetites from all the walking and cycling during the day, there are plenty of eateries in the region. We had the pleasure to dine in Michelin Star restaurants as well as the chance to enjoy a good Italian pizza. Hotels offer an international menu, otherwise a local restaurant offers a range of dishes from a German schnitzel to an Italian pasta dish.

mmm 49

Merano offers a range of hotel standards and I was lucky enough to stay in the charming four star Hotel Adria. With true traditional style and an old traditional elevator not suitable for the faint hearted, this hotel is suitably located for a short walk into town. Despite my limited German and the hotel staff’s minimal English, we received efficient and friendly hospitality. If a five star hotel is more desirable, the hotel Mignon offers just that; not only in its accommodation but fine dining and one of the best steaks I had eaten for a long time!

The mountains tend to only be thought of as a ski destination, but I can thoroughly recommend the area for a summer holiday. I enjoyed a pleasant climate in May with sunny days to make the most of the outdoor activities. The destination is suitable for anyone looking to relax, be active or a combination of the two. Merano is a lovely town with a river flowing through which you can wander along. There are plenty of boutique shops and restaurants to sample. What place can appeal to so many different people, so why not try this instead of a beach holiday? If you would like to contact me for further information regarding this wonderful resort, then I would love to hear from you – Jo Britton, Travelux of Tenterden t: 01580 764344 www.baldwinstravel.co.uk

50 mmm

Grey Scale Trend Living Room BHS

Home Lifestyle House of Fraser

HOME sweet HOME

Frost Living Room Furniture John Lewis

CSC_mmm master 24/10/2014 21:54 Page 1

mmm 51

Luxury Vinyl tiles available from all leading manufactures Stockists and Fitters of

• WOOD FLOORING

• LAMINATES

• VINYL FLOORING • UNDERLAY • CARPETS

WE GUARANTEE ANY WRITTEN QUOTE WILL BE BEATEN

Open: Mon-Fri at 8am to 5pm Sat at 9am to 1pm

Unit 8, Ballard Business Park, Cuxton Road, Strood, Kent, ME2 2NY Tel: 01634 720411 Email: info@carpetsalecentre.co.uk Website: www.carpetsalecentre.co.uk

p52_mmm master 24/10/2014 20:33 Page 20

A FAMILY RUN BUSINESS

52 mmm

* Wood & Multi Fuel Stoves * Fireplaces & Surrounds * Gas & Electric Fires * Chimney Lining * Full Installation Service * Marble, Wood & Stone Fire Surrounds * Gas Fire & Boiler Servicing

Visit Our Showroom 2 Castle Court, Castle Road, Eurolink Industrial Estate Sittingbourne, Kent ME10 3TD Tel/Fax: 01795 599234 - www.the-fireplace.net Opening Times: Monday - Friday 9.30 - 4, Saturday 10 - 4

mmm 53

Keeping warm This Winter With winter coming thick and fast, you may want to make sure everyone in the house is warm.

mmm takes you through three choices to help keep

your home warm and cosy

Fireplaces Fires during the long winter months provide a function beyond the practicality of providing warmth; staring into the flickering flames offers a rare chance to reflect and think.

In today’s world, we are used to filling our rooms with noise and distraction.

We don’t give ourselves the chance to sit down and quietly reflect: fires provide the right environment to do just that.

Increasingly, people are suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) as the winter months last longer and longer.

The dark, cold days can impact heavily on your mood as the days get shorter.

Fires are a great way to counteract SAD, make us feel cosy, comfortable and instinctively at peace.

A fire, family and good food are enough to turn your home into a haven of comfort and pleasure during winter.

Warm and inviting fires can transform a room into a welcoming retreat, to battle the worst of the winter chills and literally light up a room. a

www.morrisandturner.co.uk

www.the-fireplace.net

54 mmm

Wood Burners When it comes to energy efficiency, wood burners can help reduce your energy bills if installed correctly.

A wood burner is mainly effective in smaller homes where it can heat up each room a lot faster.

You may find heating your home by burning wood will help you get closer to nature, as well as saving those extra pennies each month. www.edmedcoal.co.uk www.whitstablestoveshop.co.uk

Gas Fires Including a gas fire depends on the kind chimney you have in order to use it to it’s fullest.

They are another traditional option for your home, but they can give your home a newer and fresher look.

They can also look good below your TV (if you have it on the wall) bringing the heat to you, while relaxing on the sofa.

p55_mmm master 24/10/2014 17:02 Page 20

mmm 55

Granite Transformations_mmm master 24/10/2014 17:05 Page 1

p57_mmm master 24/10/2014 17:49 Page 20

n

e

c n a r

m utu

a Cle

A

mmm 57

• Smoking Shelters, BBQ, Patio, Jacuzzi and Poolside Areas

• Solid Oak Tables, Benches and Chairs

£9

00

00

,2

£3

0 90

,

£3

00

,1

£4

50

£3

£2

75

00

,1

£4

00

,3

£4

00

,8

£3

80

£1

• Built from timber sourced only from sustainable FSC approved forests • Planning permission not required • Minimum disruption and built in a day!

01622 299035 / 07946 135441 mail@therusticcompany.com www.therusticcompany.com

MMM master edit_mmm master 24/10/2014 17:08 Page 1

58 mmm

MMM master edit - Copy (2)_mmm master 24/10/2014 17:20 Page 1

60 mmm

College Farm STUNNING deTached SIx bedroom famIly home Property - College Farm Address - Boyton Court Road, Sutton Valence Bedrooms - Six Bathrooms - Six (5 En-Suites) Price - ÂŁ1,100,000 College Farm College Farm is located on the outskirts of the pretty and desirable village of Sutton Valence with its local amenities

including village church, post office, local inns, hair salons and doctors’ surgeries. There is a village primary school as well as the renowned Sutton Valence Preparatory school. The larger village of Headcorn is approximately 3.5 miles distant with stores, including a local Sainsbury, post office, library and primary school. Headcorn mainline station provides services to London Charing Cross and London Bridge journey time approximately 60 minutes.

mmm 61

College Farm is a substantial detached family home located in a sought after location with stunning expansive views across the Weald. There is approximately 2800 sq ft of spacious and light accommodation with a flexible layout to suit a large or small family. The property has been fitted with oak engineered flooring to the principal rooms, a fully fitted kitchen breakfast room with under floor heating and a detached double garage with a useful hobby room or office over. On entering there is a large reception hall, a sitting room with a contemporary log burning stove and a semi circular long glazed garden room from which to enjoy the view. The well equipped kitchen breakfast room has double doors which lead out onto the rear terrace. It is fitted with all appliances including a warming drawer, double oven, electric hob, granite work surfaces and a breakfast bar, separate utility room and cloakroom. Also accessed from the reception hall there are two double bedrooms both with en suite bathrooms.

The staircase ascends to the first floor landing with doors to the master bedroom suite with luxury abath and shower room, walk in wardrobe, study room with storage area, and glazed doors that lead onto the semi circular south facing balcony.

There are two double bedrooms linked by an en-suite bathroom and a further double bedroom with ensuite.

The house is approached off Boyton Court Road, onto a private access driveway which leads then through electric gates onto the private drive and parking in front of the detached double garage. A separate rear staircase gives access to the room above which is currently used as a hobby room but could easily be an office.

Doors from the rear of the house, lead out onto the wide limestone paved terrace from which to enjoy the expansive southerly aspect. Steps lead down onto the lawn, which has been landscaped with planted borders, a timber deck and pergola as well as a pond and recessed trampoline.

For more information, please call Madeleine Rose Estate Agency on 01622 844455, www.madeleine-rose.com

MMM master edit_mmm master 24/10/2014 20:43 Page 1

62 mmm

mmm 63

Life in the

fAst LAne Shane ‘Shakey’ Byrne’s high-speed ambitions sk most men what their dream life would be, and a fair few would describe a life of international jet-setting, a successful career as a dare-devil racer and a model wife.

For Shane ‘Shakey’ Byrne, it is not merely a fantasy but his reality.

And as he turned 38 last month, he was able to reflect on a quite remarkable career which sees him flit between homes on the Isle of Sheppey and Spain.

What’s more, he does so after celebrating another

A

championship-winning season in the highly competitive world of British Superbikes.

In a dramatic and tight season he sewed up his forth title win in the MCE British Superbikes Championship in front of a packed home crowd as the season reached its finale in the final meeting at West Kingsdown’s Brands Hatch circuit a week after his birthday.

He’s been in this position before, of course.

He won his first British Superbikes (BSB) title in 2002, and then repeated the feat again in 2008 and 2012.

In between those triumphs he has dabbled in the other two major international bike competitions – World Superbikes and, the equivalent of Formula One, MotoGP. He’s also found time to act the playboy – he once dated model and personality Jodie Marsh before she turned to body-building.- and develop a reputation as one of the most popular and accessible riders on the circuit.

He’s also settled down with his wife, Petra – they wed in 2010 - and the couple have two children.

Not that it’s all been plain sailing.

Last year Petra nearly died after complications following an operation at a private hospital and had to be rushed to the Medway Maritime Hospital in Gillingham, from their home in Sheppey, a

“ I want to be a motorbike racer when I grow up.

The funny thing about that was that my parents never even had a car so where it came from I’ll never know.”

She had undergone a hysterectomy only to experience pain afterwards. Determined her health shouldn’t interrupt her husband’s racing season, she insisted he head off to race in Scotland. It was the first time she’d missed him race in eight years.

But when a friend took her to a GP, they referred her straight to hospital where she underwent a potentially life-saving operation.

Now fully recovered, she is once again following her famous husband on the most gruelling of circuits.

Motorcycling has always been in the blood for Shane, so it is perhaps little wonder he not only spends his professional career on a bike, but much of his free time too.

“Whilst sat in primary school one of my earliest recollections of wanting to be a motorcycle racer came moving up a year at school. We all sat in class and the teacher said something along the lines of ‘right children, I want you to all write your name, pets and what you want to be when you grow up’.

mmm 65

a

“I wrote the first bits then put I want to be a motorbike racer when I grow up. The funny thing about that was that my parents never even had a car so where it came from I’ll never know.”

When he was just five, he and his family stayed at Butlins.

Begging his older cousin to let have a ride on his motorbike, he experienced the thrill of two-wheels and was hooked.

“My mum knew that there wasn’t a lot of point telling me it was too dangerous,” he says, “because she could tell that’s what I loved doing and just kind of rolled with it. She never watches races until after when she knows everything’s all right.”

It was not all plain sailing though. He lost his licence just before he was due to start racing. But, on the back of a Kawasaki ZXR400 he took to the track at nearby Brands Hatch and the rest, as they say, is history.

He explained: “I used to work on the London Underground and had got banned from driving for dangerous driving so I bought a race bike to go racing instead. After a season or so, I got involved with the magazine Fast Bikes and spent a couple of years doing road tests for them.

By 1997 he started his first full season in minor championships – his performances so impressive that he got special permission to race in the final British Superbike round of that year’s championship.

But just as his star began to rise he suffered a major set-back in 2000 when a crash left him with a broken back and another with a split liver which put him in intensive care for a week. a

Two years later, though, and competing in a full season saw him finish fourth in the overall rankings of that season’s BSB. The following year, 2003, he won the title – and, riding on wildcards in World Superbikes, won two races at Brands Hatch too.

Fuelled by his success he made the leap up to motorcycling top’s flight – the MotoGP circuit.

Filled with ambition, his dreams would fizzle out after being forced to sit out several races due to injury. A move to KTM the following year also ended up as more of damp squib as supplier disputes dogged his team.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, he returned to his old BSB stamping ground – and after winning the title again in 2008, he has remained one of the competition’s frontrunners ever since.

He concludes: “If I never get a shot on a factory World Superbike where I know I can do a good job then I want to be by far the most successful BSB rider there’s ever been. I’ve got the team around me and now we’ve just got to deliver on the promise.” mmm

mmm 67

Motors Ford Mondeo All-New Ford Mondeo Enhances Comfort with Sophisticated Technology, Innovative Chassis and Noise-Reducing Body he all-new Ford Mondeo combines innovative driver assist technologies, an advanced chassis structure, and high quality interior to deliver superior comfort and refinement.

Mondeo introduces in Europe a new integral link rear suspension for improved ride comfort and interior noise reductions. Mondeo also offers Ford’s new SYNC 2 voice control connectivity system with eight inch touchscreen for easy operation of phone, entertainment, climate and navigation systems. #

T

Technologies including Ford’s first adaptive LED headlamps in Europe and Active Park Assist featuring Perpendicular Parking contribute to a simplified driving experience.

Lighting the way with advanced technology All-new Mondeo’s adaptive LED head lamps combine the daylight-mimicking light clarity of full-LED head lamps with Ford’s Adaptive Front Lighting System, which adjusts the headlight beam angle and intensity to match the driving environment. The system can choose one of a

MMM master edit - Copy (2)_mmm master 24/10/2014 20:07 Page 1

68 mmm

p69_mmm master 24/10/2014 19:29 Page 1

mmm 69

Jazz singer and pianist Chiara Civello is the new ambassador of the Range Rover Evoque

seven settings according to vehicle speed, ambient light conditions, steering angle, distance to the vehicle in front and windscreen wiper activation.

The all-new Mondeo will feature an advanced version of Active Park Assist featuring Perpendicular Parking, which enables drivers to detect suitably-sized parallel parking spaces and reverse hands-free into spaces parallel to the road and side-to-side with other cars.

This advanced parking feature will be supported by both Park-Out Assist, which helps drivers to exit parallel parking spaces; and Side Parking Aid, which provides an on-screen visual representation and audible warning of obstacles to the side of the vehicle, as well as to the front and rear.

New chassis for improved refinement The first model for Europe to be built on Ford’s new global CD-segment platform, the all-new Mondeo will debut Ford’s new integral link rear suspension configuration for improved refinement alongside more dynamic performance. The new suspension design delivers the compliance required for greater comfort, while retaining lateral stiffness for enhanced steering and handling. It also allows the wheel to move rearwards on impact with bumps. This delivers improved impact absorption for a smoother ride and reduced noise levels.

Self-levelling rear suspension is offered for the estate model, maintaining optimal ride height for comfort and handling regardless of load.

Wind noise is reduced to levels previously only experienced in the premium segment through optimised window pillar and door mirror shape, enhanced door and window seals, and improved interior noise absorption.

A wind noise level of 21.1sone – a metric for loudness – is an eight per cent improvement over the previous generation Mondeo.

The thickness of the rear window glass is increased

by 0.4mm, helping reduce passing traffic noise for rear seat passengers.

More seals have been added between the bonnet and front wings, and the engine bay sound insulation changed from fibreglass to foam, contributing to a reduction of between 1.5 and two decibels for power train noise transmitted to the cabin.

Quality and convenience Inside, Mondeo Titanium drivers are greeted by a 10inch digital-analogue instrument cluster. The customisable colour display delivers animated notifications for features such as Lane Keeping Alert.

A sleek, wrap-around centre console design delivers a sporty, cockpit-like feel, and the centre console features a symmetrical design that is accessible to both the driver and the front seat passenger – as is the large, open flowthrough storage bin in front of the gear selector.

A soft-touch instrument panel, flock-lined central front storage area and glovebox, chrome surrounds and accents on the air-vents and soft touch controls are all representative of the high material quality and craftsmanship throughout.

Smart-design front seats feature a thinner seat back – enabling rear seat passengers to enjoy additional legroom without sacrificing comfort for driver and front passenger.

Rear cabin occupants benefit from the light airy feel offered by an optional full-length panoramic glass roof in the Mondeo estate.

Comfort and convenience is enhanced for drivers with features including first-in-class power-adjustable, memoryequipped steering column, as well as power tailgate and heated steering wheel.

“The all-new Mondeo offers a sophisticated suite of features and technology that enhance driving, comfort and convenience like no other car in its class,” said Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe.

72 mmm

LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

Business LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS Public voting now oPen for the 2015 taste of Kent awards

Produced in Kent’s prestigious Taste of Kent Awards 2015 are now in full swing. Public voting was officially opened on the 1st October at the awards’ brand new launch reception at Winterdale Cheesemakers’ cheese barn in Wrotham.

James Beatton a partner at Cripps the awards Main Sponsor, comments: “Cripps is very proud to be the main sponsor of the Taste of Kent Awards again. Food and Drink is a key part of the Kent economy and one of the main sectors in our business. The awards shine a light on both the sector and the county and provide a showcase for the quality of produce and service on offer from the entrants.

I am sure that this year we will build on the successes of previous events. I can’t wait for the judging/tasting day!!”

The Taste of Kent Awards, organised by Produced in Kent to showcase Kent’s finest food and drink products, provides the general public with a unique opportunity to hand pick and vote for their favourite producers, retailers, restaurants, dining pubs and farmers’ markets.

Stephanie Durling at Produced in Kent, comments: “If you have had a good meal in a pub or restaurant or enjoyed some delicious Kentish produce, then show your appreciation and cast your vote. The award categories have grown year on year and now feature everything the Garden of England is renowned for.”

Stephanie continues: “Each year we receive more and more votes, with Kent foodies demonstrating great support for local products. For the outstanding businesses that win an award, it is an acknowledgement of their status as one of the county’s ‘food and drink heroes’ and a stamp of approval from consumers in Kent.”

Kent’s producers and manufacturers are also able to submit their products in the self-nominating category the Kent Food Product Category Award. Drink producers are judged by a separate panel, including Best Kentish Wine and Best Kentish Beer, Best Kent Juice Producer and Best Kentish Cider or Perry. Full details are available on www.tasteofkentawards.co.uk

london victoria’s new led lighting halves energy usage Network Rail’s first major LED lighting upgrade is on track to achieve 50 per cent energy savings.

Network Rail contracted innovative energy efficiency expert Minimise Energy to carry out retrofit LED works at Victoria Station to solve a complex lighting issue at platforms 9-19.

Minimise Energy, based on the Rochester Airport Estate, was asked to provide a bespoke LED solution; increasing lux levels at the station without causing glare while at the same time delivering sizeable energy savings, which would expand the capacity of the emergency system.

LED lights were also used to solve a further lighting problem specific to platforms 15 and 16. Fluorescent lights could not be used to eliminate ‘dark spots’ along these platforms as the ceilings are too low for surface-mounted fittings. Minimise Energy resolved this issue through its low-profile, recessed panel lights, which are ideal when ceiling heights limit lighting options. For more information, please contact Quantum Public Relations or visit website www.quantumpr.co.uk

gullands solicitors Promotes new Partner Law firm Gullands Solicitors has announced the promotion of Amanda Finn, Head of their Employment Department, to Partner.

Amanda, who joined Gullands in 2004, specialises in all aspects of employment law and acts for local businesses and charities of all sizes on a wide range of matters including provision of contracts and handbooks, advice on termination of contracts and representation in the Employment Tribunals. Amanda was recommended in the Chambers Guide 2013 as an ‘Associate to Watch’ in the Kent Employment sector.

Commenting on her promotion Amanda Finn said: “I am delighted and proud to join the partnership at Gullands and I look forward to playing an active role in strengthening and developing both the employment team and the business over the coming years.”

Blair Gulland, Chairman of Gullands, commented: “Amanda has developed a strong and loyal client base during her time with us and has proved herself to be a real asset to the firm.

I am very pleased that she has accepted our invitation and look forward to working together.”

LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

local marKeting agency adams unveils new branding Today, Kent marketing agency, Adams has unveiled its new branding and website. The branding change coincides with Adams’ 30th anniversary.

“As you may have spotted, we have dropped ‘Creative’ from our brand, as we are full service and don’t want to just be seen as a creative agency. The new brand needed to reflect us as an agency, so it needed to be dynamic, modern and fresh - We have used a bespoke typeface that gives clarity and confidence teamed with the new use of colour that is fresh and modern. The new branding much better reflects us as an agency moving forward and I am delighted with the result”, says Mike Adams, CEO. He comments, “In addition, the nature of the service we offer has changed and it was important our own brand reflected this. Our clients now require strategies that harness multiple marketing channels and we often act as a consultant to these businesses, being best placed to assist across the spectrum of marketing services. We are results-driven, creative and integrated, which means clients have a wealth of experience and knowledge at their fingertips. To genuinely have all of these skill-sets under one roof is our strength”.

“It’s certainly an exciting time for us and although running an agency remains a huge challenge 30 years later, I am lucky enough to still love what I do. The future looks bright as we reach our 30th anniversary and our passion to deliver excellent results to clients still remains firmly at the heart of the agency. Without our clients, some of whom have been with us for many years, the agency would not have achieved the success it has”.

Take a look around our new website and tell us what you think. www.adamscreative.co.uk

eurostar rePorts sales growth High speed continental rail service, Eurostar, has today reported continuing year-on-year growth to 30 September 2014. Compared with the same period in 2013, passenger numbers grew by 3 per cent to 2.8 million (2013: 2.7 million) while sales revenues rose by 2 per cent to £211 million (2013: £207 million).

The figures mark ten consecutive years of growth for the company in sales revenues and passenger numbers. The company says that it thinks growing confidence helped it gain more business bookings in Q3, with a 6 per cent rise in passengers using business premier class compared with last year. Nicolas Petrovic said: “Over the next two years our customers will see a complete transformation of our service as we upgrade and enhance every stage of the passenger journey. By making a substantial investment in our fleet, we are sending a strong signal about the ambition for the business and our commitment to delivering an exceptional experience for our passengers.”

mmm 73

74 mmm

LocaL Business news

Whitehead Monckton SolicitorS charity quiz raiSeS over £2,200 for kent Leading Kent law firm Whitehead Monckton held a charity quiz night in aid of their “Charity of the Year”, Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance on Tuesday 7th October 2014 at Canterbury Cathedral Lodge, The Precincts, Canterbury and raised over £2,200.

Raffle prizes were generously donated ranging from an afternoon tea voucher for two at Chilston Park to a meal for two at The Townhouse Hotel, Maidstone.

A silent auction was also held on the night for lots such as a four ball voucher for Weald of Kent Golf Club, an overnight stay for two with breakfast at the Canterbury Cathedral Lodge and a tour and tasting for two at an English vineyard.

An impressive number of teams were put together by the following companies Burgess Hodgson, Reeves, Pharon, Reflect Digital, Ackland Webb, Closer Financial, NFU Mutual, Becket Chambers, MHA Macintyre Hudson, Haines Watts, McBrides, Strutt & Parker, Barclays, UHY Hacker Young and Mulberry Cottages.

bouquet for hrh the ducheSS of cornWall To mark the visit of The Duchess of Cornwall to Chapel Down vineyard, Phoebe Tresnan, age 8½, from Leeds, designed and helped to make the bouquet she would then present to Her Royal Highness.Phoebe, who attends Sutton Valence Preparatory School, Chart Sutton, looked at the Duchess’s wedding bouquet for inspiration and researched her preferred flowers. A selection were used for the bouquet, along with some of Phoebe’s favourite flowers. Phoebe’s father, Guy Tresnan, Sales and Marketing Director at Chapel Down, said, “Phoebe was terrific.

The Duchess of Cornwall spent some time talking to Phoebe when she presented the bouquet. She was delighted with the flowers Phoebe had chosen. I’m terribly proud of her; she was a great ambassador for her school and Chapel Down, at such a prestigious occasion.”

The winning quiz team on the night were Burgess Hodgson, accountants in Canterbury.

The wooden spoon for the last team was also a closely fought match.

Special thanks go to the Canterbury Cathedral Lodge who kindly donated their fabulous venue to us for the evening free of charge.

Daniel Bennett, head of CSR at Whitehead Monckton commented “We wanted this event to do really well for our corporate charity. We weren’t disappointed and we are really grateful for the generous support of our fellow professional firms in Canterbury who all seemed to enjoy the competitive spirit. We would thoroughly recommend Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance as a charity to help enthuse and involve your staff in charitable giving.

We are delighted to be running a second quiz night in Tenterden in November where we hope to raise even more money for Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance”.

For more information please visit the website www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk

mmm 75

LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

Plans for Kings hill get green light Plans for the next phase of development at Kings Hill have been approved unanimously by Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council.

This will see the delivery of 635 much needed homes including affordable, a new primary school – the third at Kings Hill, an extension to the community centre, additional allotments, trim trails and sports pitches for Kings Hill Sports Park. Land will also be gifted for the development of a place of worship. Employment land remains for more commercial development and the creation of a further 3,000 jobs.

Kings Hill is being developed as a contemporary ‘garden village’ by Liberty Property Trust and Kent County Council and to date has already delivered 800,000 sq ft of office space and 5,000 jobs along with almost 2,750 new homes together with shops, schools and amenities for roughly 8,800 residents.

“It is the result of a collaborative journey of detailed consultation with the local community, including resident groups, church groups, sports and social groups and local parish councils,” said Liberty’s managing director Andrew Blevins.

“We have committed to a package of community benefits which go beyond what is required by the planning system and we are doing this because we are a long term investor.

“I am very pleased that there was unanimous approval of our plans for Kings Hill and it is gratifying to receive further endorsement of our approach to community building from Michael Cassidy, Chairman Designate of the Ebbsfleet Garden City Corporation when he commented at a property event that the quality and diversity of what we call our ‘garden village’ has many of the elements he would like to see for the Garden City.

“We are very proud of what we have done at Kings Hill and the quality of the development was endorsed recently by The Daily Telegraph when it named Kings Hill as one of the best places to raise a family in the UK.” Kings Hill, a contemporary garden village, is set in 800 acres near the county town of Maidstone and is just two miles from junction 4 of the M20. It was a former airfield and is now home to around 8,000 residents and more than 200 businesses employing some 5,000 people.

For more information visit www.kings-hill.com

The Rustic Tree Company 1p_mmm master 24/10/2014 19:50 Page 1

Intriguing, unique and durable wooden Outdoor Retreats to suit all occasions

80 0

• Solid Oak Tables, Benches and Chairs • Built from timber sourced only from sustainable FSC approved forests

0 80

• Smoking Shelters, BBQ, Patio, Jacuzzi and Poolside Areas

, £3

£3 ,

00

£3

,8

,8

£3

00

00

£3

,9

,2

£3

00

76 mmm

• Planning permission not required • Minimum disruption and built in a day!

00

,3 £4

£4 ,1 00

01622 756822 / 07946 135441 mail@therusticcompany.com www.therusticcompany.com

mmm 77

An AcT of remembrAnce

poppies

The large poppy adorning the Aylesford poppy factory

Maidstone war memorial in 1943 Credit - KM. Neg 3019

Each year at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month, the country unites in two minutes silence for the fallen of all wars. Forever associated with this act of remembrance is the humble poppy flower. mmm pays tribute to all those who fell or were injured in the defence of their country. he First World War saw a proliferation of war poems written by those who had experienced battle and had died because of it. Thomas Hardy, Rupert Brooke and Rudyard Kipling are just three of the many who put the terror of war into words. It is however, one particular poem called ‘In Flanders Fields’ that encompasses the poppy as a symbol of sleep, peace and death. Written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, a Canadian physician who served in the conflict, the inspiration for the poem came upon the death of a friend and colleague who died in the second battle of Ypres.

It was at the age of 41, that John McCrae enrolled with the Canadian Expeditionary Force following the

T

outbreak of war. He fought at Ypres in the Flanders region of Belgium and noticing how quickly the poppies grew around the graves of the fallen he began to encompass the flower in his poems. It was sometime later that an American teacher, Moina Michael, recognised the significance of the poppy in poems, a fact that prompted her to purchase large artificial quantities of the flower with money collected from her colleagues and friends and re-selling them to raise funds for ex United States Servicemen. She had worn a red poppy since 1918 and had herself written a poem titled ‘We Shall Keep The Faith’. A French woman, Madame Guerin, also took up the idea, which enabled her to raise funds for the reconstruction of areas of France devastated by the war. a

78 mmm

In 1921, she sent poppy sellers to London and later met Field Marshal Earl Haig who had co-founded the British Legion. As the idea of the poppy representing the fallen grew, so did the manufacture of artificial ones.

The origins of the poppy factory in the UK lie with Major George Howson MC who had served on the Western Front and had established a charity for injured and disabled servicemen calling it ‘The Disabled Society’. Other similar charities at the time were Comrades of the Great War, National Association of Discharged Sailors and Soldiers, National Federation of Discharged and Demobilised Sailors and Soldiers and the Officer’s Association. After an approach by Major Howson with the suggestion that the Legion adopted the Poppy as their emblem, the idea was readily accepted by Earl Haig and the first poppy factory was set up in 1922, in premises in the Old Kent Road with a grant of £2,000.

Production began in earnest employing ex - servicemen to make the artificial flowers. As the idea of the poppy as a symbol of remembrance

gathered pace, so did the workforce necessitating a move to larger premises in 1925, to Richmond in Surrey.

It remains there today, but it is the factory at Aylesford in Kent that now makes the artificial poppies and is part of which is known as the British Legion Village.

Granted royal status in 1971, the Royal British Legion continues to care for injured servicemen and women.

Every November on the 11th day of the month at 11am, the exact day and time the First World War ended, the nation stands for two minutes silence.

On the Sunday following, known as Remembrance Sunday, this is repeated with every town in the UK conducting a parade to their local war memorial.

The annual Festival of Remembrance is held every November in the Albert Hall in London. There are two ceremonies, one in the afternoon for the public to attend and an invitation only in the evening, in the presence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second and members of the Royal family. It is however in the hearts and minds of everyone who wears a poppy that the true remembrance is felt. ROBIN J BROOKS

Colonel John McCrae

‘AT THE GOING DOWN OF THE SUN AND IN THE MORNING, WE WILL REMEMBER THEM’ An extract from ‘In Flanders Fields’

by Lieutenant Colonel John Mccrae.

‘In Flanders Fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below’.

An extract from ‘The Soldier’ by Rupert Brooke ‘If I should die, think only this of me; That there’s some corner of a foreign field That is forever England. There shall be In that rich earth a richer dust concealed; A dust whom England bore, shaped, made aware, Gave, once, her flowers to love, her ways to roam’

mmm 79

Family guide to whats on & when Pamper Day, Tudor Park Marriott Hotel, All year round hether simply relaxing by the pool, using the sauna, steam room or invigorating exercise in the gym, Tudor Park endeavour to make your day special.

Towels and robes will be provided for the day. Includes full use of the facilities for two people

W

plus a 25 minute treatment each. Choose from a Back Neck and Shoulder Massage, Revitalise Decleor Facial, Manicure Essential or Footcare Essential.

Time for two Pamper Experience only £65, to book please call 01622 732007.

Wartime Christmas, Kent Life, November 29th - 30th tep back into yesteryear and relive Christmas time in the 1940’s at Kent Life Heritage Farm Park, near Maidstone, on November 29th and 30th.

Visitors to the award-winning attraction’s Christmas on the Home Front can experience the sights, sounds and tastes of life during World War II as civilians prepare for the festivities.

Find out how to ‘make do and mend’, as former teacher Judi Knight shows you how people coped with rationing by preserving and re-styling clothes from the era. Judi, who organises the annual event, will also be demonstrating wartime cookery, using genuine 1940’s recipes issued by the Ministry of Food – including a sponge cake made with liquid paraffin instead of fat!

There will be drill displays by the Home Guard, British Army training exercises, shops from the era and a rehabilitation centre for injured RAF pilots. You might even spot a German POW or two being put to work mending bicycles…

A one-day ticket for the Christmas on the Home Front event, which runs from 10am to 3pm, costs £7 for adults, £6 for concessions, and £5 for children aged three to 15.

Under-threes and members go free.

To book your tickets and for more information visit www.kentlife.org.uk or call 01622 763936.

S

Christmas Lunches, Ightham Mote, 29th November 23rd December et in the festive spirit with a waitress served choice of traditional Christmas menu at the Mote Restaurant.

Two-course £21.95/3-course £24.95 included coffee and mince pie.

Meet at the Mote Restaurant. Assistance Dogs only are welcome. Accompanied children welcome.

Optional partial access to Ightham Mote at £5.75 to include the Great Hall and Library. All booked events and openings are weather permitting.

Please call 01732 811314.

G

Aladdin, The Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury 28th November - 11th January

MAKING ART WORK, Maidstone Museum November 8th - 22nd his Christmas, take a magic carpet ride to the Far East with their hilarious, fun-packed family pantomime, Aladdin.

The show features an all-star cast, including Scott Maslen (EastEnders) as Abanazar, Cbeebies’ Mister Maker Phil Gallagher (Wishee Washee), everyone’s favourite dame Ben Roddy (Widow Twankey), and comedian Lloyd Hollett (PC Pongo). Phil, Ben and Lloyd are all back by popular demand.

Once again, the show will be written and directed by Paul Hendy and brought to you by the same team behind last year’s box office smash-hit, Jack And The Beanstalk (seen by more than 90,000 people).

For more information call 01227 787787.

T

Woodville Hall, Gravesend, The Nutcracker 19th November udiences have the opportunity to catch one of Tchaikovsky’s world famous classical ballets The Nutcracker when the highly acclaimed Vienna Festival Ballet company returns to town.

The enchanting tale of The Nutcracker is one of the best-loved ballets and centres around Clara and her nutcracker doll, which magically transforms into a princely soldier. Their adventures see the Prince and Clara combat the Mouse King and join the Sugar Plum Fairy for a wonderful trip to a Kingdom made entirely of sweets. Tickets £21, £19 Concessions and £14.50 up to sixteen year olds (including booking fee )

A

Family guide to whats on & when

ESPONSE is MAKING ART WORK’s latest contemporary art exhibition in Maidstone Museum’s Bentlif and Bearsted Galleries from 8th to 22nd November 2014.

Using the site of the Museum as inspiration, the artists will produce a range of sculpture, photography, collage and print to explore the function, collection and architecture of the County Town’s award winning Museum and Galleries.

This is an opportunity to see work by some of the Southeast’s most exciting contemporary artists in collaboration with Maidstone Museum.

The opening night will be Saturday 8th November 6-8pm and will include a performance by Anaconda - Arabic/Romany and world dance styles fused with a theatrical storytelling aesthetic. There will be a programme of events throughout the three weeks.

These will include a film screening and Q&A with the director of ‘Make Your Own Damn Art’ about the artist and RA Academician Bob and Roberta Smith and the ‘Museum of Pocketfluff’ an interactive event where visitors donate some of the contents of their pockets or bags to contribute to a mini museum within a museum.

R

Francis Iles Galleries, 16th November rancis Iles Galleries Autumn Exhibition featuring Brian Denington and Graham Pook on the 16th November MInce Pie and Art on a Postcard dayat the Gallery in aid of Hounds for Heroes.

They are open every day until Christmas.

For more information please call 01634 843081 or see website for full details and opening times. www.francis-iles.com

F

mmm 81

Kent Police Male Voice Choir, St John the Baptist Church Tonbridge Road, 7th December ounded in 1978, the Kent Police Male Voice Choir have raised almost £300,000 through performing concerts, having just retired police officers, now all male voices are welcome to represent the Kent Police for the community.

Now even Jools Holland OBE has become a patron of Kent Police Male Voice Choir, helping further the cause to raise money for local charities. If you are at all interested, make sure to visit at 7.15pm on any Thursday evening at Kent Police HQ, Maidstone. The choir play at - St John the Baptist Church, Tickets £10 and £5 for children/students, call 01622 813032 for more info or visit www.kpmvc.org.uk

F

Woodville Hall, Gravesend, The Pasadena Roof Orchestra Christmas Show, 30th November

he Pasadena Roof Orchestra Christmas show includes some of the most popular seasonal songs that were performed by great performers such as Bing Crosby and the great Dance Bands. Alongside the orchestras’ usual repertoire of superlative dance -band music from the 1920’s and 1930’s the Band will perform well known seasonal tunes such as ‘White Christmas’ alongside rarer musical gems such as ‘I told Santa Claus to Bring me you’. A super hot swinging Tommy Dorsey version of ‘Santa Claus is coming to Town’ and some other festive treats, make this show just the thing to get you into the Christmas spirit! Tickets Full price £19 & £17.50 (includes £1 booking fee)

T

ABBA REUNION Tribute Show Hazlitt Arts Centre, 21th November weeney Entertainment are proud to present The ABBA REUNION Tribute Show - Live in Concert, an evening full of the hits of ABBA, one of the world’s most iconic pop groups Having taken Europe by storm in 1974 when they won the Eurovision Song Contest with Waterloo, ABBA went onto top pop charts worldwide for well over a decade. Their much-loved songs have featured in some of the most popular films of the past thirty years including Muriel’s Wedding and The Adventures of Pricilla, Queen of the Desert.

With it being the special 40th Anniversary of winning the Eurovision, a magical recreation finale awaits that will take you back to where it all began....complete with a bespoke copy of the famous silver star guitar that was played by Bjorn during that unforgettable performance in April 1974!!!

ABBA REUNION gives Abba fans, old and new, the opportunity to once again get together and re-live the addictive Abba phenomenon that swept the airwaves and discos during the 70’s and 80’s in this truly feel good, party style concert.

From Dancing Queen to Waterloo all of the hits are performed with an incredible attention to detail resulting in the perfect Abba look and sound.

For more information visit www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk

S

Vienna Festival Ballet, The Nutcracker, 19th November Audiences have the opportunity to catch one of Tchaikovsky’s world famous classical ballets The Nutcracker when the highly acclaimed Vienna Festival Ballet company returns to town.

The enchanting tale of The Nutcracker is one of the bestloved ballets and centres around Clara and her nutcracker doll, which magically transforms into a princely soldier.

Their adventures see the Prince and Clara combat the Mouse King and join the Sugar Plum Fairy for a wonderful trip to a Kingdom made entirely of sweets. Tickets £21, £19 Concessions and £14.50 up to sixteen year olds (including booking fee )

Family guide to whats on & when

82 mmm

The latest stage of the refurbishment of the Hythe Imperial Hotel has been marked with the official opening of the refurbished Imperial

by a new structure more in keeping with the Victorian design of the main building.

“The Hythe Imperial is a landmark on

Ballroom. 200 people attended with a mix of

the seafront in the town and it is exciting

local dignitaries, residents and businesses,

to come here today and see just how well

with everyone providing excellent feedback.

the rejuvenation of this beautiful building is

The entertainment was supplied by the Singing

progressing,” said Cllr Smith.

waiters as well as Ollie Mulkeen who kept everyone dancing until late.

The Mayor of Hythe Cllr Alan Smith and

Darrell Healey, Chairman of GSE Group said: “Over the past 12 months the majority of the public areas, bars, restaurants and function

Mayoress Maureen Wright tripped the light

rooms have been refurbished and plans are

fantastic to perform the opening ceremony

in place to start work on the bedrooms, which

at the hotel, which is owned and is being

includes the installation of air conditioning in

refurbished by the GSE Group.

every room.”

A new dance floor, computer-controlled sound

The refurbishment of the Hythe Imperial

and lighting systems and air conditioning all

is being carried out in conjunction with the

feature as part of the ballroom’s £1 million

Imperial Green residential development of 75

refurbishment, which has seen the 1970s

high quality townhouses and apartments in the

extension at the front of the hotel replaced

grounds of the hotel.

MMM master edit_mmm master 19/08/2014 11:13 Page 1

MMM master edit - Copy (2)_mmm master 24/10/2014 19:43 Page 1