E
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
SOT W
so
THE BILLIONAIRE MEET KENT’S RICHEST MAN
WIN
A YEAR OF HAIR & BEAUTY MAKE OVERS
Tunbridge Wells £10MILLION COUNTRY HOUSE EXCLUSIVE
HA PPY NEW YEA R
23
PAGES OF FABULOUS FASHION PLUS: FISHING FOR AWARDS SANKEY’S NETS THE BIG ONE ROLLS ROYCE NEW KING OF THE COUPES CONFIDENTIAL RUMOURS FROM AROUND THE TOWN
ISS UE 22
JANUARY 2010 £1.50 WWW.SOTUNBRIDGEWELLS.CO.UK
Johnny Depp
HOLLYWOOD’S HIGHEST PAID ACTOR IS IN WONDERLAND
WALNUT FLOORING PROMOTION
189mm x 21mm Pre-Oiled Engineered - £45.95m2
Hello... Our aim is to bring you the very best of things in life and in this first issue of 2010 – may good times be heaped upon you, by the way – we think we’ve done rather well. There’s the highest paid actor in the world (£32million a film)… the richest man in the county (£1.2billion)… the stunning new country house in Frant (£10million) plus the Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe (£300,000). And if you fancy a touch of the high life yourself there’s the chance to win your own personal hair stylist for the year at the much acclaimed Chapel salon. That’s worth £1,500. The big earning actor is Johnny Depp who is about to go as Mad as a Hatter, probably at the thought of finding a treasure chest with his name on it when he next sets sail for the Caribbean. Closer to home, Sevenoaks billionaire Peter Cullum tells us, in one of his rare interviews, how he became the wealthiest man in town and, more importantly, how you spend all that money. House builder John Elliott knew exactly what to do with his hard earned cash, he created one of the most expensive homes to grace our landscape and we’re invited inside for an exclusive look round. And as we begin a new decade we thought it only proper to make your favourite local magazine an even more enticing read with the introduction of Tunbridge Wells Confidential… all the gossip and rumours that have been passed our way on some of the happenings and characters that so enrich our town. Nothing escapes our attention! We also find out what all the fuss is about as Sankey’s restaurant wins a top award, check out TW’s David Hockney exhibition and bring you 23 hot pages of fashion tips and news, plus one page just for the kids. Almost too much for one magazine, eh?
SoTW
info@sotunbridgewells.co.uk For full contact details see Page 12 january 2010
7
CLIVE CHRISTIAN
C L I V E C H R I S T I A N TUNBRIDGE WELLS, 7 LONDON ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT, TN1 1DG TELEPHONE: 01892 619 550
CLIVE.COM
NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN AT HARRODS, CONTACT: 0207 839 8325/6 HARRODS@CLIVE.COM
SO
January
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
INSIDE YOUR
ISSUE…
THIS MONTH YOU SHOULD…
Get in shape and support a charity by competing in the Tunbridge Wells half marathon.
21
SO TELL US…
23
NOW FOR THE NEWS
25
IT’S OUR PARTY!
30
38
What you think of chuggers taking over the town and Katherine Jenkins becoming an honorary Tunbridge Wellian.
GPs are warned about flirtatious patients, a pensioner sings his way out of trouble and traffic wardens hit the streets in the small wee hours.
Champagne toasts are the order of the night as we celebrate, with some of our loyal band of advertisers, suppliers and readers, another successful year of publishing SoTW.
THE BILLIONAIRE We talk to the richest man in the county to find out how you spend a fortune and we just have to ask: ”Does all that money really make you happy?” Apparently not.
TW CONFIDENTIAL Something new and exciting to kick off the year – we give you all the gossip and rumours that have been passed our way on the
116 10
42
JANUARY 2010
happenings and characters that so enrich our town. And there’ll be more every month.
51
FASHION INSIDER
54
ALL WRAPPED UP
57
IN CONTROL
42 COVER
FEATURE:
“CAPTAIN WEIRD, I’M NOT” Discover how Johnny Depp has become the highest paid actor in Hollywood by taking an alternative route to the top. Oh yes, he’s also become as Mad as a Hatter.
We’re looking for your ideas to grace our new style fashion pages plus the search is on for aspiring models for TW Fashion Week.
It might be cold outside but that just gives us a great excuse to slip on this season’s fabulous coats.
The easy way to shape up after all those extra mince pies and chocolates consumed over the holidays.
Cover and article images: Johnny Depp courtesy of Retna Pictyures
16
CONTENTS
SO
30 98
THE GALLERY Award winning Mark Johnston is among the artists featured this month in our look at some of the more interesting works on offer in the town.
101GRIMM VIEWING
86 63 72
INSIDE LEG Why men need to carry some serious baggage, get waisted and plumb the depths. Honest!
WIN HAIRCUTS AND TREATMENTS FOR A YEAR Your chance to look great throughout 2010 with free visits to The Chapel in Tunbridge Wells. It’s an amazing prize worth up to £1.500.
77
86
54
CHILD’S PLAY Our new page for the little ones with ideas on everything from wearing the classic camel coat to learning to dance like a fairy.
THE ULTIMATE FAMILY DETACHED There’s even a personal shower room for the pet dog in this impressive £10million country house in Frant. We promised you a look inside the home of John Elliott and here it is.
David Hockney fans will be heading in to town this month for an exhibition of his etchings illustrating the stories of the Brothers Grimm. We take an early look at what’s on show.
107SEAFOOD SOURCE
As Sankey’s in TW wins the title “most sustainable seafood restaurant” we ask:”Can the food be delicious as well as virtuous?”.
63
110 ANGEL DELIGHT Driving the new Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe is, it seems, akin to “being pushed along the road by the hand of an angel.”
122 ARMY SALLIES FORTH
Rooting through the local archives we find a story in which the TW branch of the Salvation Army was involved in riots, violence and even vandalism.
JANUARY 2010
11
SO
tunbridge wells
3 Cumberland Walk, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1UJ Tel: 01892 616103 www.sotunbridgewells.co.uk info@sotunbridgewells.co.uk Publishing Director Nick Moore nick.moore@sotunbridgewells.co.uk
Sales Director Sharon Lacey sharon.lacey@sotunbridgewells.co.uk
Editorial Director Richard Moore FRSA richard.moore@sotunbridgewells.co.uk
Art Director Lee Smith Designers Claire Hawkes, Ian Flynn Senior Writer Melissa Woodland melissa.woodland@sotunbridgewells.co.uk
Publishing Assistant Dan Smith dan.smith@sotunbridgewells.co.uk
Account Managers Peter Mackay peter.mackay@sotunbridgewells.co.uk
Derrick Bennett derrick@magazinepeople.co.uk
Amy Lawson amy@magazinepeople.co.uk
Contributors Valerie Thacker Damian Cotton Mark Turnbull Mirror Image Richard M Hammond Published by The Magazine People Ltd. Designed by SCW Design & Publishing Ltd. www.scw.uk.com Printed by Headley Brothers Ltd.
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.
Subscribe to SoTW for just ÂŁ1 per issue! For details visit www.sotunbridgewells.co.uk or call 01892 616103
12
january 2010
www.magazinepeople.co.uk
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
This month you should…
Read...
The Lacuna is the first novel to come from the compelling American author Barbera Kingsolver in over nine years. This epic narrative follows the coming of age of a boy named Harrison William Shepherd in the second quarter of the 20th Century. We follow Harrison as he’s shifted to and fro on both sides of the Gulf of Mexico by his mother, who is on a constant mission to find new men in the USA and Mexico. The story is told through diary entries, letters and actual newspaper articles of the time and is a stunning piece of fiction as well as a historical study. Available now from Waterstones, TW priced £14.99
Train...
Dance...
If the party season has highlighted your lack of dancing skills, then it’s time to get back to basics and sign up for some lessons. You don’t have to be a celebrity to enjoy learning some fancy footwork and at the Medway School of Dancing in Tonbridge High Street there’s plenty of choice. From solo Salsa to Latin mix (couples) and ballroom to adult boogie box (a great way to keep fit) it’s all on offer. There’s an open/enrolment evening on Sunday January 3 (6.30 – 8.15) with short class sessions and demonstrations or visit medwayschoolofdance.co.uk for other opportunities. No more excuses then to sit on the sidelines.
The problem with New Year fitness regimes is that you often begin to lose enthusiasm towards the tail-end of January. However, this time around if you want to stick with it, sign yourself up for The Children’s Mutual Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon on February 10. Organised by the Tunbridge Wells Harriers, the entrance fee is just £21.50 for nonaffiliated runners and the money from the 1,500 or so entrants will go towards supporting such charities as the Cardiomyopathology Association and the Dame Kelly Holmes Legacy Trust. Visit twharriers.org.uk
16
JANUARY 2010
THIS MONTH
SO
Laugh... Beat the January blues and bring a smile to your face with a visit to The Therapy Rooms at The Grey Lady on The Pantiles. Hype Entertainment says it offers “intelligent and forward thinking audiences cutting edge out of town comedy acts.” Therapy night are the last Thursday of the month (next one January 28) and are compered by local stand-up man Stephen Upsall who has been described (largely by himself) as the “Frank Skinner of the Home Counties”. You decide! For prices and details check out therapyroomcomedy. blogspot.com
Figure...
Designers Tokyoflash Japan feel that traditional ways of telling the time are just a bit dull. To combat this it’s come up with a series of designs that to the untrained eye make no sense at all, but each have a unique way of displaying the passing of time. But how does the Sensai model (shown) work? Well, the red lights on the bottom of the watch refer to the hours passed (in this case 12), the green refer to clusters of 5 minutes (so, 55 minutes) and the orange lights show the individual minutes left over (four). The time? 12:59. See tokyoflash.com
Gig... If you go down to the woods this coming Summer you’ll be in for a big surprise. For there on stage at the Bedgebury Pinetum you’ll find Tonbridge boys Keane (June 11) and Simply Red (June 12). They’ll be at the Goudhurst venue as part of a nationwide tour of seven woodland locations through the Forestry Commission Live Music series; money from ticket sales is spent directly on the nation’s woodlands benefiting everything from butterflies to mountain bikers. Woodland clearings are temporarily transformed into concert arenas for the gigs which are expected to sell out fast. Tickets are £32 (Keane) and £38 (Simply Red) and can be bought from hotline 01842 814612 or at forestry.gov.uk/music
JANUARY 2010
17
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
Listen...
This is The Codeine Velvet Club, the eponymous debut album by the Scottish duo consisting of Jon Lawler, frontman of The Fratellis, and Lou Hickey, the smoky-voiced jazz singer and pianist. They started jamming together early in 2009 and the two-piece quickly realised they’d struck upon a winning sound. The album is generally a work of poprock laced with bittersweet swing and jazz melodies from Hickey. Obvious favourites include Time and the new single Vanity Kills. From amazon.co.uk priced £8.99.
Wear...
Brighten up a dull January day and lift your spirits – put on this geometric print Lipsy dress. With vibrant hues and a silky finish, the slash neck shift dress features capped batwing sleeves and an exposed zip fastening. Wear over simple black leggings and a three-quarter sleeved jersey top to keep the cold out. £65 from Love Daisy on TW High Street. Call 01892 616114 or visit lovedaisy.co.uk
Watch...
This two-part biography of the life of Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara has garnered both high praise and harsh criticism from movie-goers and critics alike. They’re what we call ‘Marmite films’ – you either love them or hate them. What’s certain though is that both films star Benicio Del Toro as an utterly believable Guevara. In Part One we’re shown the Castro-led Cuban Communist Revolution as they successfully topple the regime of Fulgencio Batista, a US-friendly dictator. Part Two tells the story of the failed Bolivian insurgency that eventually cost Che his life on October 9, 1967. The two diskset is available on Blu-Ray from HMV, £12.99.
18
JANUARY 2010
Plant...
It seems astronauts and scientists alike believe that plants in your home ‘clean’ the air of dust and toxins. Apparently researchers from NASA, Oxford Brookes University and the University of Agriculture have all reached the same conclusion regarding the positive impact of houseplants on your life. Purifying the air they can help you feel more energetic and result in a 20% reduction in the symptoms of coughs and colds, which is good at this time of year. Then of course there’s perhaps the most important positive - they fill the hole left by the absence of your prized Christmas tree. Check out Wyevale garden centre in TW
SALE NOW ON
BEAUTIFUL FLOORINGS AT SALE PRICES
Where you will find one of the largest selections of quality carpets, pergo laminates, amtico,and structured wood from woodpecker all at lower prices during our sale period. We promise to help you make the right choice to suit your home and your budget, with professional fitting and advice. Please telephone for a free measure and estimate. Appointments for home selection available.
RUGS UP TO HALF PRICE
Fashion Carpets 42 High Street Royal Tunbridge Wells Kent TN11 1XF Tel: 01892 528676 Also At Sidcup, Bromley And Welling
www.fashioncarpets.co.uk
Lincoln Furniture Warehouse hold just one sale a year. Starts December 27th Find us at the end of The Pantiles
0800 652 0102 • www.lincolnfurniture.co.uk
T U N B R I D G LE EW T TE EL R LS
SO tell us... YOUR LETTERS PAGE
SOTW WINNING LETTER OF THE MONTH:
Sir, There are many things wrong with this country and there are many things wrong here in Tunbridge Wells. Even so I continue to believe we live in one of the most tolerant, balanced countries in the world and that TW itself is one of the nicest, Sir, Nice to see you guys back on track with a celebrity (December) who, in my opinion, is ‘So’ Tunbridge Wells. I was beginning to think you’d gone off in another direction with the likes of Victoria Beckham and Robbie Williams (the former I’m not too keen on and the latter is a bit crazy these days). Personally I think the town should adopt Katherine Jenkins as an honorary Tunbridge Wellian. You seem to know her and she apparently loves the town. Any chance of putting the idea forward? Dave Elliot (Southborough) Ed: We have done so and await the response with bated breath (she really is a nice person!).
SO
If your letter is chosen by the Editor as the Letter of the Month, you’ll win a Bespoke Aromatherapy Massage at THE CHAPEL worth £75
safest towns in which to reside. Let’s all try and remember that, and how lucky we are, as we enter another New Year. Happy 2010 to you and all your readers! Marilyn Studders (Tunbridge Wells) Ed: We certainly share your sentiments – at least about TW.
Sir, I cannot be the only one who walks down our streets in a constant state of fear. Not of muggers or rapists but of the bands of charity workers tactically using pincer movements to pin me down and force me to listen to a sales pitch about the latest splintercell of a certain well-established charity. I am not an uncharitable person. I contribute to one major charity and have done for the last eight years, as well as supporting local events. But I just cannot abide this ‘numbers game’ while out shopping. I feel unsafe in my own town. Surely I am not alone?
Sir, It’s all well and good giving us two pages (December) of a recent social with HRH the Duke of Kent et al. But who the devil were the rest of them? I spotted the town’s Mayor and the police chief from a previous issue of the magazine, but the rest? Oh, and I thought they were brave organising such an occasion for Friday 13th, perhaps that’s why the Queen wasn’t there. Sue Bowers (Via email) Ed: Shame on you for not instantly recognising the great and the good of our beloved town.
Jeremy Warburton (Speldhurst) Ed: They’re called ‘chuggers’ and they should maybe “chugger off”. Legally they can only take three steps towards you, they can’t pursue. We accept Letters to the Editor by e-mail (info@sotunbridgewells.co.uk) or post (SoTW 3 Cumberland Walk, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1UJ). Letters must carry full names and contact details. Letters may be edited for publication.
OJ C A TNOUBAERRY 220001 0 9
21
“
It was my worst nightmare. The work was completed a month late and cost more than I had been quoted. But the plumber blamed the carpenter, the carpenter blamed the electrician, the electrician blamed the painter and the painter blamed the architect. I blame myself for not asking Orchard Priory.
”
At Orchard Priory you’ll have only one contact for the whole project and we’ll be happy to take responsibility. We’ll ensure your dream is on time, on budget and exactly to your requirements. Call us free on 0800 043 1435 or email enquiries@orchardpriory.co.uk
Orchard Priory www.orchardpriory.co.uk Great Cauldham Farm, Cauldham Lane, Capel-le-ferne, CT18 7HQ
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
SO
And now for
the news…
ANOTHER LOOK AT SOME OF THE STORIES, BOTH LIGHT-HEARTED AND SERIOUS, MAKING THE LOCAL HEADLINES Good News for: FLUSHED SINGER
CLOCK WATCHERS
For more than 60 years the clock on the tower of the old railway station in Tunbridge Wells has been silent. Now its swing time again after repairs to the pendulum and other parts of the mechanism. The Grade II listed building that is TW West has been a town landmark for 150 years and has been renovated and reopened as a Smith & Western Americanstyle restaurant. The station, which used to see trains running to East Grinstead via Groombridge, was closed to passengers in 1985.
When George Hudson (80) got stuck in the hospital lavatory he took matters into his own hands and burst into song. Happily, the chorus to Handel’s Hallelujah attracted the attention of nurses at the Kent and Sussex and he was soon back in bed recovering from a hip op. Apparently he pulled the loo’s emergency cord three times but to no avail. “When I started to get a bit chilly I wondered what I could do,” he recalls.” So I gave them the opening verse of the Hallelujah Chorus. The doors opened very quickly.” George, a tenor, has been a member of the Cranbrook and District Choral Society for some 50 years.
ALEING PUB
Since the 1500s there’s been a public house on the site of the Nevill Crest & Gun in Eridge Green. But in recent years, under a Whitbread freehold, the pub has lost some of the charm that made it a favourite with locals for centuries. This trend is set to reverse as the people behind The Hare in Langton Green are taking over. Having enjoyed great success running The Hare, Brunning & Price (more famous for their pubs in the North West of England)say they aim to bring back classic values and a traditional feel to the GradeII listed building in Eridge where for years the local hunt used to gather.
Bad News for: BUGGY MUMS
Staff at Wadhurst railway station have come under fire for refusing to help a young mother lift her baby’s pushchair over the footbridge. Vicky Pacher was taking ten week old Oliver to Pembury Hospital for a check up. She bought a ticket and asked if someone could give her a hand to get the buggy across to the other platform. “They told me they could not help because they were not insured to lift things like prams,” says Vicky, who was eventually helped by another woman passenger. Southeastern Trains says there are no formal guidelines on whether staff should help lift a baby buggy.
FLIRTY PATIENTS
Local GPs have been warned by the Medical Defence Union not to engage in flirtatious behaviour with patients via online social networking sites. The Medical Director of West Kent Primary Care Trust Dr James Thallon says: “This may seem like a lighthearted issue, but it can actually be quite serious for doctors. A bit of flirtatious contact from a patient may seem harmless enough but doctors have to be really careful about their boundaries.” The warnings come after numerous reports of doctors being pestered by adoring members of the public, one GP was bought lilies and a travel book after a patient learned via Facebook about their interests.
OVERNIGHT PARKING
Traffic wardens in Tunbridge Wells have been given the green light to target vehicles parked illegally overnight. When they patrolled the streets one Friday night between 9pm and 3am they stuck 138 penalty tickets onto windscreens. The pilot blitz was considered a success and the borough council says the wardens will conduct more night time patrols… although timings and dates will be kept secret. The council says the action is being taken after concerns raised by police and residents.
JANUARY 2010
23
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
SO
under the mistletoe
G
MTV’s Dr Hilary Jones, along with TV presenters Gloria Hunniford and Cheryl Baker plus skater Jayne Torvill OBE, were among those who attended a fund raising lunch at the Hotel du Vin in Tunbridge Wells. By the time coffees had been finished, more than £8,000 had been raised for Cancer Research UK through an auction and a raffle. The ‘Mistletoe Lunch’ was the brainchild of four ladies (Sandra Owen, Jayne Torvill, Chris Mitchell and Angela Roney) who discovered over a lunchtime conversation that all their lives had recently been touched by cancer.
JANUARY 2010
25
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
SO
IT’S OUR PARTY!
Photography: Mark Turnbull
T
he bubbly flowed and the glasses were raised when The Magazine People celebrated another successful year of publishing your favourite local magazine So Tunbridge Wells. Together with our business partners KoS Media we also celebrated the launch of two weekly newspapers – Tunbridge Wells on Saturday and Tunbridge Wells on Sunday. Advertisers, suppliers and readers joined us at the Brew House Hotel for a night to remember. Our thanks to all of you for your support!
JANUARY 2010
27
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
SO
ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS ROYAL VICTORIA PLACE SHOPPING CENTRE TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT TN1 2SS 2ND FLOOR, UPPER MALL ADJACENT TO FENWICK STORE
0754 606 3506
ID MAY BE REQUIRED
J a nu a r y 2 0 1 0
29
SO
30
tunbridge wells
January 2010
Billionaire
SO
WHO WANTS TO BE A BILLIONAIRE? words Richard Moore
What sort of person ends up a self-made billionaire named by the Sunday Times as the richest man in the county? Well, we have the answer
T
he first thing that strikes you about Peter Cullum is the fact he comes down the corridor to greet you as the lift doors open on the third floor of his Maidstone offices. The receptionist has called ahead. We walk through to the glass-walled boardroom of Towergate Partnership where he pours tea and proffers biscuits. As our photographer unpacks cameras Peter Cullum says: “Sorry, I haven’t put a tie on, is that all right?” Is that “all right”! You’re the richest person in Kent and probably East Sussex! It’s me who should be apologising and ripping my tie off. But it’s a measure of the man – who heads an insurance empire second only in the UK to Aviva (Norwich Union) – that he claims no high status and puts people at ease. We show the 59-year-old grandfather a copy of the Sunday Times 2009 Rich List which places him in Number One spot for Kent with personal wealth of £1.2billion. Is that accurate? “Actually, it was more than that at the time, but how do you value a business today with all that’s gone on? I would hate to put a number on it because any number is likely to be wrong, it’s certainly lower than it was two years ago”.
Yes, but does lots of money make you happy? “Do you know, I very rarely think about how much I’m worth, after all what do you do with it; ruin your children? (His three are certainly not.) I know some quite wealthy people and I’m not sure they are all happy. “If I was lying in a doorway tonight homeless, I probably wouldn’t say this, but money doesn’t necessarily buy you happiness. It gives you choices. Lots.” And Peter Cullum has exercised those choices. He has chosen to continue to grow his business, rather than sell out and retire, and in the process has acquired more than 150 large and small operations, grown his staff to 5,000 and seen across the board company sales reach £2.8billion a year. He’s also set up the Cullum Family Trust which he endowed with over £20million to enable it to focus on poverty relief, plus the advancement of education and child protection. Additionally he’s given a further £10m seed money to Cass Business School in London, which he once attended, to help develop the entrepreneurs of the future, having created the Peter Cullum School for Entrepreneurship. On top of that the Towergate Charitable Foundation raises about £1million a year for ChildLine, Help the Hospices, Great Ormond Street Hospital and Cancer Research UK. Not that Peter Cullum boasts about his charity work; you have to encourage him to open up. ➢ January 2010
31
YOUR INDEPENDENT CRUISE SPECIALIST
CLASSIC 6 NIGHT TRANSATLANTIC CROSSING TO
New York ONLY
£899 INCLUDES 5* QUEEN MARY 2 CRUISE AND RETURN FLIGHT.
01892 554700
ABTA NO. K9517
32 THE PANTILES, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT • WWW.GETCRUISING.CO.UK *Prices are per person, based on 2 passengers sharing the lowest grade of twin bedded cabin, subject to availability.
BILLIONAIRE
“Philanthropy should most often be discrete,” he says. “I’m wary of guys who chase publicity for helping charities; it’s a sign of insecurity. I give quite a lot away because it’s the right thing to do.”
SO
“Whilst we insure 75% of all private jets and helicopters in the UK I’ve avoided the temptation to buy one. I’m happy flying Virgin or Easyjet.”
You must have some nice things? Why not give away a lot more then, like £500million? “Because a huge amount of my wealth is here at Towergate in shares, it’s paper wealth. When the taxation system changes, as it will, it will encourage me to give away substantial amounts but even then I will not want to just say ‘here’s £10million do want you like.’ “What I want to do in my lifetime is look at the difference you can make, which is why I went to South Africa with Sir Richard Branson to see first hand what his charity is doing. “We had a friendly version of Dragon’s Den and brought the winner Sonwabile Mngenela (pictured p.35) to London for two weeks on a business course. “My aim has always been to create and develop the Cullum Family Trust where a large sum of money is invested and out of the income the donations are made to help others. I’d like it to become an important trust so that when I’m long gone there will be the chance for my children to continue to do some good work in their lifetimes.” Eldest daughter Claire-Louise (28) is CEO of the Trust while daughter Abi (23) is Administrator. “Making my daughters directly involved helps them better understand that giving is good and very rewarding. If they get half the satisfaction I do then I’ll be very happy. “My own children are lovely people but I know some who are behaviourally delinquent because they have no challenge. Their fathers have lots of money, so they party and sit around deciding when to have their next spa treatment or where to go on some exotic vacation.”
What about the trappings of wealth? “It’s all relative I suppose. I have a nice seven bedroom house that my second wife Ann and I built in Sevenoaks. (Amongst other things Ann works in the business with Peter and is involved in some of the property investment companies.)
“Cars are a passion of mine and I do have a Ferrari and a Porsche as well as a Harley Davidson motorbike that my wife bought as a surprise birthday present.” When we ask if he’s actually quite careful with his money, he pauses and recalls the day he bought the Ferrari two years ago, telling us that as he walked into the showroom he remembered his family roots. He was born in Norwich – “my father was a bricklayer and my mother worked in a shoe factory” – although he doesn’t want a rags-to-riches story. “Originally I wasn’t going to buy a new Ferrari. The thought of losing £60,000 on its value as soon as you drive out of the showroom, because it becomes secondhand, made me reluctant. “There was a new one on display though and my wife encouraged me to buy it. Before we bought I asked about discounts. The salesman looked at me with some disbelief and disdain and said ‘this is a Ferrari, sir’. “I told him the world was changing and there was no longer a queue of people waiting to buy Ferraris. Reluctantly he called Ferrari and I got £20,000 off the price.” To this day Peter Cullum retains strong links with his native Norwich – he’s a big fan of the city’s football team, the Canaries, and in 2007 was linked with a supposed buy-out of the club. ➢
“HE ONCE TOSSED A COIN WITH A DEVELOPER AND WON £100,000 OFF A PROPERTY DEAL AFTER DOING A RAPID RISK ASSESSMENT IN HIS HEAD.”
JANUARY 2010
33
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
“I used to sell programmes and sweets at the Carrow Road ground on match days in order to see the game for free and as a 15-year-old turned out for Norwich Boys against Arsenal Boys.” Peter Cullum, who once tossed a coin with a developer and won £100,000 off a property deal after doing a rapid risk assessment in his head, today works as hard as ever. “It’s a bit of a drug still, a habit that’s difficult to kick although I don’t have a rigid regime. Some days I leave home at 6am and get back very late. It all depends what we are doing with the business.”
And there’s been plenty to do in what’s proved a tough year. “Unless you’re a pawn-broker or insolvency practitioner, every business has had huge challenges and faced a lot of turbulence. “Maybe because banks were suffering their own paralysis, small and medium businesses found arrangement fees getting doubled, terms of loans changed and overdrafts reduced. “There’s been a lot of wealth destruction in the UK as a direct result of the huge turmoil caused by banks finding themselves in unfamiliar territory.”
So, the bankers should not be getting big bonuses? “I find myself sort of agreeing with commentators who emotionally believe there’s a certain obscenity attached to taking bonuses when the banks have been bailed out. “But park that for a moment and look at the practical aspects. If you do not keep your good people based on what is the market reward mechanism then they leave, your profits drop along with your dividends and you’re into a vicious downward spiral. “Your instinct is to ‘get rid of those wreckless traders who should be hung out to dry’ but actually they are really important to the business.” Peter Cullum believes good people means good business; great people means great business, “and you have to try as best you can to keep the people who make the big difference.”
34
JANUARY 2010
We ask how he got started. Surely he didn’t wake up one day and decide insurance was for him? “Actually I did,” he says as he bursts out laughing (something he does quite often). While at school he attended a recruitment programme at Norwich Union where pupils got an introduction to insurance. “It was quite appealing because you got four days off school, didn’t have to wear a uniform and the lunches were good. I found it all fascinating. Looking at risk analysis is mathematically challenging and can be very interesting. “Part of me also thought that all the bright guys would be going into law or banking, or what was regarded then as proper banking, so the competition in insurance would not be so great. I calculated in my strange methodology that insurance gave me a greater chance of success.” Whatever the rationale, Peter Cullum certainly went on to be successful. He started his insurance career in 1969 with Royal Insurance and worked his way up through the ranks of Commercial Union and ITT London & Edinburgh. At the age of 41 he found himself running a small insurance company in Sittingbourne. When the parent company went bust he and three colleagues bought the business. “We signed the deal at 2.45pm on 21 December 1993. Strange how some dates stick. Originally I had no intention of ever being an entrepreneur, it was pure situational”. Many lessons were learned and remembered in Sittingbourne, such as the value of joint ownership. ➢
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
Peter Cullum with Sir Richard Branso n and competition winner Sonwabile Mngenela.
The 200 staff were handed shares in the business because “if you give people ownership, they get up earlier and work harder.” The same thinking applies to his business today. “It was a big learning experience for me. On my first day all the staff were brought together and when I walked into the room they stood up and applauded telling me I had saved their jobs. “They gave me a beautiful silver tea service. It was the only thing I took when I got divorced because it was so important to me, so symbolic.” The lessons have stood Peter Cullum in good stead. Towergate has acquired specialist insurance brokers and underwriting agencies covering areas from holiday homes to agriculture, military equipment, pubs and nightclubs. It’s won numerous awards, amongst them UK Private Company of the Year (twice), Profit Track 100 Management Team of the Year and Crème de la Crème. Executive Chairman Peter Cullum was voted UK Entrepreneur of the Year in 2005 and Britain’s top Entrepreneur in 2008 by Management Today Magazine. Success has also enabled him to work with his son Simon (31) who takes care of “search engine optimisation, which I don’t fully understand. I just know we spend a lot on it.” Looking ahead to the coming year Peter Cullum predicts more bad news for the country as a whole “on the basis that our finances as UK plc are in such bad shape. “We’re facing the prospect of higher taxes and VAT possibly above 17.5% which will have an inevitable impact on consumers who will have less to spend. That in turn will impact retailers. “We hear about green shoots and we can all hype it up and talk about a bull market. But that’s not where I am in my head.”
And what of his own future? “The big buzz for me is going to be when I’m sitting on my verandah in my wheel chair or rocking chair. I’ll look at Towergate and say… ‘crickey I used to be part of that, isn’t it fantastic?’” It certainly is, Peter Cullum, PhD, MBA, FCII – one of the nicest billionaires we’ve met in a long while. SO
36
JANUARY 2010
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
SO
J a nu a r y 2 0 1 0
37
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
A New Year
A New Adventure
ho
lid 5% ay of for f* y all ou So r ne TW xt rea d
From balloons to beaches, Let us personally plan your best holiday yet.
Call us on 01435 866555 to see how. www.thetravelconcept.co.uk email: ask@thetravelconcept.co.uk The Travel Concept is a trading name of The Freedom Travel Group Limited registered in England and Wales with registered number 3816981. VAT NO. 403 3146 04. Registered ofďŹ ce: New Centry House, Manchester, M60 4ES. Head OfďŹ ce: Hamil Road, Burslem, Stoke on Trent ST6 1AJ. The Freedom Travel Group Limited is part of the Co-Operative Group Limited. *Terms and conditions apply
40
JANUARY 2010
ers
Difference
Advertisement Feature
MAKING A
WHAT DO BILL GATES, WARREN BUFFET, SIR TOM HUNTER AND DUNCAN BANNATYNE ALL HAVE IN COMMON? APART FROM CONSIDERABLE SUCCESS, THEY’RE ALL COMMITTED PHILANTHROPISTS, WHO HAVE PLEDGED TO GIVE AWAY THE BULK OF THEIR FORTUNES TO GOOD CAUSES. AND THEY’RE NOT ALONE
S
o, what’s driving these philanthropists? The most cited reason is that it’s an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Victor Hugo once said that as the purse is emptied, so the heart is filled, and for many, philanthropy does just that. It also allows them to achieve a spend/give balance. For instance, while he has had no problem in amassing his fortune, the hedge fund manager Arpad Busson said in a recent Guardian interview that his decision to embrace philanthropy was because he found it impossible to enjoy his wealth, knowing there are people out there who were much less fortunate than himself. For others, philanthropy can be the ideal way of instilling family values and educating their children, as showing the next generation what a difference wealth can make to others can help prepare them for the responsibilities of inheritance. Warren Buffet once famously remarked: “A very rich person would leave his kids enough to do anything, but not enough to do nothing.” Dragon’s Den star Peter Jones has established a trust fund to reward his children for the good they do, their yearly allowance dictated by their choice of future career. He hopes it will encourage them to consider professions that make a difference to others, such as nursing or teaching, rather than focusing purely on those jobs with the best salaries. Likewise, his co-star, Duncan Bannatyne intends to leave his entire fortune to his Bannatyne Foundation. He fears that leaving his children hundreds of millions of pounds would rob their lives of any purpose. But as well as allowing children to follow their own path, we have found amongst our clients that philanthropy can also bring families closer together. If you own a successful family business, setting up a charitable foundation can allow those relatives not involved in the day-to-day running of the company to work together for a common goal or purpose. For those that have sold their business or are beginning to take a step back from their profession, but are not quite ready to sit back, philanthropy is an opportunity to apply both financial capital and life experience in order to solve social problems. When the late Anita Roddick sold The Body Shop, it wasn’t so that she could sit back and enjoy the fruits of her labours, it was so she could devote the rest of her life to her charity foundation.
Philanthropy is also a way of supporting a cause for the long term and creating a lasting legacy. Setting up a trust that will fund organisations or charities in perpetuity will ensure that your work will always make a difference and will remind others of how strongly you felt about a particular cause. A case in point is Bill Gates. At the moment he’s famous for founding Microsoft, but he hopes that after he’s gone, he’ll be remembered for his commitment to eradicating disease and ending social inequality in Africa through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. But whatever your initial motivation to start giving, knowing how, where and when can prove challenging. Choosing the right charity is always going to be a tough decision and once that’s made there are further difficulties. How much to give; whether to make a single donation or regular payments; how to gauge a specific charity’s performance before supporting it and how to monitor the impact your support must all be considered. So if you feel that philanthropy could be the key to enriching your life, then Coutts can help you develop your perfect giving strategy. From simple advice and researching potential beneficiaries, to setting up a charitable trust, our dedicated philanthropy team will guide you every step of the way, making it simple for individuals, families and business clients alike to start making a difference. By John Goss, Senior Client Partner for Coutts in Tunbridge Wells. For more information call John Goss on 01892 701083, email john. goss@coutts.com or visit Coutts.com J anuary 2 0 1 0
41
SO
tunbridge wells
“CAPTAIN WEIRD, I’M NOT” HE’S THE HIGHEST PAID STAR IN HOLLYWOOD BUT DOESN’T EVEN LIVE THERE having TURNED HIS BACK ON AMERICA. TODAY JOHNNY DEPP COMMANDS A VERSATILITY MOST ACTORS WOULD KILL FOR AND IS SET TO GO DOWN IN HISTORY AS ONE OF THE GREATS words Dan Smith
42
January 2010
J
ohnny Depp is a man who stands out from his peers as something of a maverick. He’s put in his time scratching out a living and is now enjoying the fruits of his labour; the world over he’s recognised as an intelligent and alternative actor able to carry mainstream movies while adding his own individual twist. “I don’t pretend to be captain weird,” he says. “I just do what I do.” Considering the idiosyncrasies built into many of his performances, it’s difficult to imagine anyone else pulling off some of his better-known roles. He hopes to further enhance his reputation this Spring when Alice in Wonderland hits cinema screens on March 10. Johnny’s likely to steal the show as the Mad Hatter and so add another character to his extensive list of unforgettable performances. The protagonist in Edward Scissorhands (1990), Hunter S. Thompson’s Duke in Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998), and more recently Captain Jack Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean series (2006-2011), these characters almost have lives of their own – carefully crafted personalities injected by Johnny himself. Even Marlon Brando was a fan. The pair became friends while working together on Don Juan Marco (1995) and remained close until the cinematic legend’s death in 2004. Before his passing, the finest actor of the 20th Century remarked that Johnny was “the greatest actor of his generation”. And it’s true. By carefully selecting his roles (he turned down Backdraft, Sin City and The Matrix to name but a few) Johnny has managed to remain outside of the Hollywood bubble, simultaneously crafting an impressive curriculum vitae of independent films, Tim Burton classics and, with the Pirates franchise, mainstream blockbusters. “I pretty much spent most of my career doing everything I could not to become a star and play romantic leads,” says the 46-year old who’s just been voted Sexiest Man Alive 2009 by People magazine. ➢
Johnny Depp
January 2010
SO
43
Johnny as Captain Jack Sparrow
“I’ve been running away from celebrity for so long now that I don’t think I’m suddenly going to go down that road even if a lot of money is getting thrown my way. I’d still rather play interesting characters than go down the movie-star route.” This might seem contradictory considering the rumoured $53million (£32million) he’ll be paid for the next outing of Jack Sparrow (above). But then again, playing the Captain of the Black Pearl does look a hell of a lot of fun! We’ve got a while to wait to see the new swashbuckler though as it’s rumoured that the next installment of the Pirates series will be released in Summer 2011. Johnny’s eccentric and off-the-wall performances show that he has a true love for acting and enjoys getting under the skin of his characters. But unlike many of his contemporaries, who spent years in performing arts schools and academies, Johnny never really intended to get into acting and he almost missed the boat entirely. In 1978, a year after Johnny’s civil engineer father split from his mother, a waitress, Johnny left his Florida home with little more than a half-finished high school education. The marijuana-smoking drop-out moved to Los Angeles California in search of fame and fortune, fronting his garagerock band The Kids. By the early 80s The Kids had failed to make an impact on the saturated L.A. music scene and, despite once supporting Iggy Pop, the band was making no money. Johnny married make-up artist Lori Anne Allison in 1983 and to make ends meet became a tele-salesman attempting to flog pens in bulk orders. “You’re calling people who don’t want you to call them. You put on your best fake voice and try and sell them a gross or two of ballpoint pens with their name printed on them.” Things were looking bleak. Then at a party in L.A he was introduced to an up and coming young actor named Nicholas Cage, who convinced him to swap music for film.
J ohnny D epp
SO
Johnny hasn’t given up his music though and remains an accomplished guitar player. He’s performed slide on the Oasis album Be Here Now (1997), played acoustic in the film Chocolat (2000) and appears on the soundtrack to Once Upon a Time in Mexico (2003). Not just a pretty face then. After a few minor roles in the mid-80s Johnny’s first big screen outing was as Glen Lantz, one of the main characters in the Wes Craven slasher A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984). The cult hit succeeded in introducing the world to Johnny who, midway through the film, ends up falling victim to one of the bloodiest deaths seen on the cinema screen. He went on to appear in the excellent Platoon (1986) and then grudgingly dipped into TV acting for a few years in the American undercover cop show 21 Jump Street, as saxophone-playing Officer Tom Hanson. “Hanson is not someone I’d want to have pizza with. I don’t believe in having undercover cops in high school – it’s spying. The only thing I have in common with Tom Hanson is that we look alike.” Aired weekly 21 Jump Street gave Johnny massive exposure, earning him his ‘heart-throb’ status which he disliked almost as much as his character and the show. Finally, in 1990, he managed to break out of his contract. Just at the right time along came the quirky director Tim Burton, with the perfect anti-poster boy part for Johnny. At the time, having divorced his wife Lori Anne Allison, Johnny was seeing the actress Winona Ryder who had worked with Tim Burton on the surreal horror comedy Beetlejuice (1988). She put him forward for the lead in Edward Scissorhands which he got. Johnny subsequently shined as the muted artificial man and a film-making partnership was born. Johnny and Tim made a successful team and not only created an amazing film, but also forged a strong friendship off-set which has led to them making a further six films together to date. ➢ J anuary 2 0 1 0
45
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
“What more can I say about him?” Johnny muses. “He is a brother, a friend, my godson’s father. He is a unique and brave soul, someone that I would go to the ends of the earth for, and I know, full well, he would do the same for me.” Under Tim’s direction, Johnny has been able to push his acting boundaries in an array of roles. We’ve already mentioned the troubled Edward Scissorhands, but in the 90s there was also the character study of director Ed Wood (1994) and the squeamish Ichabod Crane in Sleepy Hollow (1999). More recently the partnership gave us Johnny’s take on Willy Wonka in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005), the voice of Victor in the animated Corpse Bride (2005) and the singing, murderous barber in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007). Currently in the pipeline is Alice in Wonderland, set for release in March. Publicity shots (opposite) show him in perhaps his most bizarre Burtonian guise yet, with a red-headed, white-faced Johnny sporting rather terrifying make-up and extreme eye-brows. Helena Bonham-Carter will also appear as the evil Red Queen, with her head digitally blown up to three times its usual size. Other famous faces in the film include Anne Hathaway, Michael Sheen, Alan Rickman, Steven Fry and the rising actress Mia Wasikowska as Alice herself. Helena, the domestic partner of Tim Burton, is a regular in his films and the couple are very close to Depp; he’s Godfather to Billy Raymond Burton, the couple’s son. The pair also have a daughter, named Nell. Johnny is clearly grateful to Tim for the break he gave him as an aspiring young actor and for his continued support as his career has taken off and flourished. He’s said of Tim: “He can ask me everything. If he wants me to have sex with an aardvark in one of his next movies, then I will do that.” Now that’s dedication. But it’s not just Burton’s films for which Johnny is recognised. Other stand-out movies include What’s Eating Gilbert Grape (1992) with an impressive appearance from a young Leonardo DiCaprio, Donnie Brasco (1996) alongside Al Pacino and Blow (2001) with Penelope Cruz. His portrayal of suave 1930s gangster John Dillinger in Public Enemies (2009) was highly acclaimed and recently he played one of the replacement lead parts in The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009) following the death of Heath Ledger. The remaining scenes were picked up by Jude Law and Colin Farell. With at least five other projects in production, Johnny’s likely to be wowing the crowds for the foreseeable future. one up-coming movie is the aforementioned fourth installment on the Pirates of the Caribbean series, the film which will make him the best paid actor in Hollywood. Quite an extraordinary feat considering that he doesn’t even live in America full-time. After his marriage to Lori Anne Allison ended in 1985, Johnny had a string of high profile relationships with the likes of Winona Ryder and Kate Moss. Despite these women, the man was rarely happy. Now though, he’s settled with his long-term girlfriend and mother of his children Vanessa Paradis.
46
JANUARY 2010
Tim Burton d n ie fr r to ec ir d Johnny with “It’s completely transformed my way of thinking and my outlook on everything.” The star reveals. “I was functioning in some strange kind of fog before we met. For a long time I was deeply uncomfortable in my own skin and though I had a lot of outward success as an actor I was very miserable and unhappy for most of that time. I just couldn’t find any peace of mind. But being with Vanessa and having a family with her has just made things come together for me.” The family spends most of their time in the south of France, with their two children John Christopher ‘Jack’ Depp III and Lily-Rose Melody Depp. “I love our house in the country. I can walk to the nearby village and have coffee and no one pays any notice. I’m just another dad with my daughter on my knee. The time I’ve spent in France has solidified my belief that I can keep a major distance from Hollywood and still keep in the game.” He intentionally keeps his son and daughter away from the ‘States, seeing it as an unfit place to raise children: “America is dumb,” he says. ”It’s like a big dumb puppy that has big teeth that can bite and hurt you… I’d like them [his children] to see America as a toy, a broken toy. Investigate it a little, check it out, get this feeling and then get out.” For this reason the family divide their time between a farm in Île-de-France, apartments in Paris and Manhattan, a house in the Hollywood hills and an island in the Bahamas. It’s a tough life, eh? He’s a family man and feels that becoming a father has given him a new lease of life: “Anything I’ve done up till 27 May, 1999 was kind of an illusion, existing without living. My daughter, the birth of my daughter, gave me life… “I love playing with my kids. I just love seeing their happy faces and how unspoiled and free they feel. I also laugh at their reactions to things they see for the first time or the way my son Jack runs back and forth around the house and smashes into everything and then just keep on going like a little freight train.” A bit like Johnny’s career then; it just keeps going, even with the weird characters and quirky indie films. And it’s because he’s a likeable actor, who’s surprisingly down to earth and with more than enough talent to keep us guessing time and time again. Which is why we can’t wait to have tea with the Mad Hatter. SO
JOHNNY DEPP
SO
In the forthcoming Alice in Wonderland as The Mad Hatter
JANUARY 2010
47
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
Occasion and evening dresses Holiday and casual wear Designer clothes, shoes and accessories 40 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1RB Tel: 01892 519519
Up 27 to th D 75 ec % em of be f r
st
ar
ts
www.kitchclothing.co.uk
SA LE
1 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1UL Tel: 01892 513613
50
JANUARY 2010
FA S H I O N
SO
FASHION EDITOR MELISSA WOODLAND ON WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
this month...
Working Wardrobe
Making your wardrobe work for you isn’t always that easy. So many of us have beautiful pieces languishing at the back of cupboards because we just don’t know what to do with them. The arrival of a professional stylist Julie Hurst is set to change all that. Her former London-based style consultancy SIGNATURE has relocated to Tunbridge Wells and offers clients the chance to project a more stylish and confident image, simply make the most of their existing clothes or discover new boutiques and designers. Julie is the product of a leading image training centre and has studied at the London College of Fashion, Central Saint Martins College of Art & Design and Istituto Marangoni, the Italian Fashion School. Her consultation services start at £100, but packages are tailored to the individual clients. signaturestyleconsultancy.com 07954 365320
Treat Yourself
Pinks Boutique, the professional organic beauty specialist, has introduced four Try Me boxes filled with mini indulgent skincare delights for top-to-toe beauty at home. Each chocolate-coloured box contains products made with certified organic ingredients for face, hands and feet. Priced from £21, the sets are available online at pinksboutique.com
Calling Fashionistas
Do you have a collection or an item that you’d love to see featured on our new look fashion pages? Perhaps you’re the exclusive stockist of a new range of jewellery or your own designs are on sale in the town? We’d love to hear from boutiques, designers and fashion buyers about what Tunbridge Wells should be wearing and what you’d like to see us writing about. Just drop a line to Fashion Editor Melissa Woodland, melissa@ magazinepeople.co.uk
Sweet Dreams
Trade in your flannel pyjamas for something a little more alluring. We love the Claudette range from lingerie specialists Myla. Made in a striped cotton jaquard with silk insert details, it’s available in Ivory and Tea Rose. Camisole £69, shorts £39 from myla.com
London, Paris, New York – Tunbridge Wells
The inaugural Tunbridge Wells Fashion Week is just around the corner (24th – 26th February 2010) and we’re looking for local models plus The Face of Tunbridge Wells. To apply, aspiring models, male and female, should send a recent photograph, together with details of relevant experience, age, measurements and contact details to: Kym Hammond, The Brew House Hotel, 1 Warwick Park, Tunbridge Wells TN1 5TA. They should also, in no more than 50 words, explain why they think they should be selected as a model for Tunbridge Wells Fashion Week. Applications must be received by January 11 2010. To buy tickets for Tunbridge Wells Fashion Week or for further information visit tunbridgewellsfashionweek.co.uk
JANUARY 2010
51
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
SO
THE
beauty box all your Beauty needs in a box
by a team of highly qualified professionals
eyelash extensions • threading • acrylic nails bio sculpture • manicure / pedicures waxing • facials • spray tanning alternative therapists • wedding packages eyelash extensions by:
Luscious, thicker, fuller lashes Water resistant Last up to 2 months Natural look and feel Relaxing and comfortable treatment
The Beauty Box 5 High street, Rusthall, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 8RL tel: 01892 535010
JANUARY 2010
53
IT MIGHT BE COLD OUTSIDE, BUT THAT’S JUST FINE WITH US! THE WINTRY WEATHER GIVES US THE CHANCE TO WRAP UP IN ONE OF THIS SEASON’S FABULOUS COATS. RICH, LUXURIOUS SHADES, SUMPTUOUS FAUX-FUR COLLARS, STYLISH FUNNEL NECKS AND PLUSH VELVETS AND SUEDES, 2010’S WINTER COATS ARE ELEGANTLY CUT AND SURPRISINGLY PRACTICAL. WE JUST CAN’T WAIT TO GO OUT
54
JANUARY 2010
Betty £240 t a o c . wool k, TW Cream at Fenwic y la Barc
Brown Suede coat £950 Country Casuals, High Street, TW. Classic long length wool-mix coat £120 Long Tall Sally, Chapel Place, TW.
na at Per U 5 3 1 £ r, TW. t coat Velve nd Spence a s Mark
Belted Grey coat with fur collar £130 Great Plains at Fenwick, TW.
Elworthy Limited Edition frock-coat £599 Hobbs, Royal Victoria Place, TW.
Cream Military wool coat £125 Great Plains at Fenwick, TW.
Black coat with burgundy lining £250 Austin Reed, High Street, JANUARY 2010 TW.
55
FA S H I O N
SO
inCONTROL WHEN THE SEASONAL FESTIVITIES HAVE BEEN AND GONE, MANY OF US ARE LEFT RUEING THE EXTRA MINCE PIES AND CHOCOLATES WE CONSUMED OVER THE HOLIDAYS
Y
our clothes might be feeling a little bit tighter or maybe they’re just not sitting quite as well as they used to. But before you embark upon a crazy fad diet (healthy eating and more exercise is unfortunately the only thing that works), we have a few hidden secrets that will have you looking sleek in seconds. And you needn’t worry about having to wear crushing corsets and uncomfortable undies. ‘Control’ clothing has had a makeover and the result is instant inch loss with the added bonus of the wearer still being able to breathe!
soundINVESTMENT Forget about remembering to hold in your stomach. There is now a whole range of tops and dresses that will do it for you. Yummie Tummie vests are designed to be worn as clothing rather than underwear, so they look good, plus they slim down your midsection, visibly taking off inches. BEST FOR: Everyday. WHERE TO BUY: La Belle Femme on TW High Street. PRICE: £62.99. JANUARY 2010
57
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
whatA WAIST Hiding a less than toned midriff under baggy winter jumpers? You should be embracing your waist. Cinch in your mid-section with the Hourglass Waist Nipper from Charnos. It’s stitched-in panels create a real hourglass shape whilst providing the support you’re looking for. BEST FOR: Wearing under fitted skirts and dresses. WHERE TO BUY: Fenwick, Royal Victoria Place, TW. PRICE: £30.
jeanGENIE Every woman, of every age, yearns for a pair of jeans that really fit. Ideally, they’d make us look slimmer and give us longer legs. Too much to wish for? No! Tummy Tuck Jeans, from the Not Your Daughter’s Jeans range are designed to slim the lower abdomen, contour the hips and lift the bottom, without you feeling trapped. You’ll find you need a size smaller than you usually wear and unlike some control clothing, you can wear these to go shopping or on a night out with the girls. They border on the miraculous. BEST FOR: Everything. Get one pair for everyday wear and another for the evening. WHERE TO BUY: La Belle Femme on TW High Street. PRICE: From £95.99.
goodFOUNDATIONS Any outfit will look immediately better if you get your basics right. The Spanx range features hosiery that holds you tight in all the right places and smoothes out any lumps and bumps around the hips, thighs and stomach. You can wear your favourite clothes over the top and look like a slimmer, firmer you. Whilst they’re not the most attractive of undergarments, they’re far from uncomfortable and once you see how effective they are, you really won’t care what they look like! BEST FOR: Underneath unforgiving fabrics. WHERE TO BUY: Selected items at Kitch on TW High Street. PRICE: from £25.
58
JANUARY 2010
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
SO
Opening Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 9am-5pm Thursday: 9am - 8pm 40 Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2PT
At Orchid we will endeavour to offer you a bespoke service designed to suit your individual personalised requirements. For an appointment with one of our talented, high-calibre stylists, with exceptional skills in both cutting and colouring, please call:
01892 548848 We look forward to seeing you Orchid are Bumble & Bumble Stockists
J a nu a r y 2 0 1 0
61
FA S H I O N
SO
VINTAGE STUFF Savile Row tailors Gieves & Hawkes have launched a selection of carefully chosen antique and vintage pieces to accompany their classic styling and they’re available exclusively online. Ranging from restored vintage watches to Victorian jewellery, the collection brings the finest hidden treasures back into the limelight. Watch prices start from around £2,000 for a Heuer and £295 for a Victorian fob watch. We particularly like the Vintage Victoria & Albert Sterling Silver watch chain with seal and T Bar at £250. gievesandhawkes.com
DEPTH CHARGE If you’re a keen scuba diver then the new Ocean Date watch from Kadloo is perfect for your hobby. Now available in Tunbridge Wells exclusively at Toulson Jones in Ely Court, the timepiece is waterproof to 300 meters (984ft) and features scratch resistant sapphire glass with an anti-glare coating plus a dial with large indices covered with Superluminova for clear visability. Price: £595. All you need now is a holiday destination with some warmer water than Brighton. 01892 615 477
REAL BAGGAGE Planning an away-break to lift your post-Christmas spirits? This luxurious leather holdall is just the thing to carry all you need for a weekend in the countryside. With cotton lining and textured brown Italian leather, it’s designed to stand the test of time. £149 Collezione at Marks and Spencer. 01892 511 466
WE HELP YOU EARN YOUR FASHION STRIPES SMOOTH TOUCH
GET WAISTED Three piece suits are making a comeback. The last few months have seen a resurgence in men’s waistcoats and Spring 2010 sees the look take a step toward tradition. So, make sure your waistcoat is in the same fabric as the rest of the suit and add detail with your shirt and tie. Worth a look: The tweed versions available at Charles Tyrwhitt kill two style birds with one stone. ctshirts.co.uk
Start your day the right way with a traditional razor which should make for a much better shave. Crabtree and Evelyn’s Sandalwood Shave Soap produces a rich, creamy lather that softens the beard so you’re ready for a close wet shave. Added Vitamin E in the soap helps to calm and condition the skin, plus it smells great and the wooden bowl it comes in will fit into most bathroom decors. £11 Fenwick, Tunbridge Wells 01892 516 716
JANUARY 2010
63
SO
tunBridge weLLs
Here, La BeLLe Femme sHOwCase sOme BeautiFuL design wear FrOm Leading internatiOnaL designers. est. 1967 tHe BOutiQue is One OF tHe Largest stOCKists OF mOtHer OF tHe Bride and eVening wear LOCaLLy. tHere’s sOmetHing FOr eVeryOne, FrOm sePerates and CasuaL wear tO gOwns and tHat PerFeCt LittLe BLaCK dress, PLus aCCessOries tO matCH!
64
January 2010
L a B e ll e F e m m e
SO
Mashiah Arrive January 2010
65
SO
66
t u n b r i d g e w e ll s
January 2010
L a B e ll e F e m m e
SO
Look and feel fabulous... January 2010
67
SO
tunBridge weLLs
Modern mother of the bride 68
January 2010
Tunbridge Wells 0 1 8 9 2 6 1 4 000
La BeLLe Femme
SO
You st yle. We make...
January 2010
69
SO
t u n b r i d g e w e ll s
Diva London
70
J a n u a r y Chislehurst 2010
02084 6 7 6 6 6 1
L a B e ll e F e m m e
SO
Jovani January 2010
71
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
WIN
THE CHANCE TO LOOK GREAT THE WHOLE OF NEXT YEAR WITH FREE HAIRDRESSING AND TREATMENTS AT THE CHAPEL! IT’S AN AMAZING PRIZE WORTH UP TO £1,500
72
JANUARY 2010
T
he Chapel in Tunbridge Wells is a unique hair and beauty salon situated in the extraordinary surroundings of an old chapel (hence the name) down near The Pantiles. Created and owned by husband and wife team Amanda and Toby Dicker, who opened their first salon (No 9) in The Pantiles 12 years ago, the Chapel Place business has won more than 30 top awards. Not least amongst those awards was Hair Magazine’s Best UK Salon 2009 with their new Islington salon winning Best London Salon twice in its first two years. Amanda explains the concept behind The Chapel: “I realised that sitting down face-to-face on a level with someone, and taking the time to discuss their hair, meant we had a much greater understanding of one another and could better deliver the results they wanted.” Today The Chapel and its team are renowned across the industry, travelling the world teaching their gospel; Amanda with her unique approach to creative colouring and guest relations; Toby with his innovative business and marketing talent and Gary Russell for his creativity in hair cutting. But it’s their guest’s opinion that matters most. Such as the unsolicited comments from first-time client Pauline Tremain who told us what she loved about the TW salon: “The personal touch, being met at the door, having somewhere to lock my valuables away and being shown around… all the treats on a personal tray, especially vegetable crisps and wine being available. “Everyone I encountered was extremely professional and friendly, and showed an interest in the service I was receiving and in my opinion.” Pauline loved the area downstairs being given over to relaxation in complete comfort even though the upstairs was not crowded or noisy. She also liked the colour scheme, the ambient lighting and the private booth environment plus the continuity with her stylist. “I enjoyed Scott’s gentle hair wash and the fact that the water temperature was perfect without my having to give it any thought; touches such as these reduced the level of decision-making and distraction and made me feel very looked-after and pampered. “Scott’s style advice was very thorough and knowledgeable. He also created a style with versatility, which gave me a sense of freedom and made me feel more adventurous and reassured.” Pauline chose The Chapel because it offered so many services in-house and because of how good it looked on the website. It was even better for real and her whole experience was focused on customer satisfaction. “I loved Jodie’s free make-up session afterwards, I hadn’t expected that and the final price was also lower than I’d expected, which was a bonus for a first-time customer. “Most important, there isn’t the sense of having been ‘processed’. So many lovely touches throughout the experience; from the first hello to the last goodbye, and the goodie bag handed to me as I left. I’ll be back soon!”
THE CHAPEL
SO
JANUARY 2010
73
Now you can find out for yourself what it’s like to be a client at The Chapel by winning a year’s hairdressing and treatments worth up to £1,500. There’ll be an initial consultation with The Chapel’s Seasonal Trends and Colour Service where the team will spend time creating a personal portfolio of the colours and trends in the coming season. They’ll take you through the best colour, clothes and make-up from the catwalk to the high street, to suit you and your lifestyle plus there’ll be a personal styling session, skin care consultation and make-up lesson. With the hair there’ll be an in depth consultation with one of The Chapel’s team of experts before a fabulous cut, colour and finish. This will be followed by a further five hairdressing visits during 2010. Each visit will include a nail file and paint while you wait for the colour to process in the luxurious colour studio and to finish the look one of the make-up artists will apply a tailor-made look just for you. The prize also includes a Recuperative Full Body Massage for you and a friend followed by a two course lunch at the nearby Brew House Hotel. What a great way to spend your day! There’ll be a further three tailor made back massages for the winner throughout 2010. All this is bought to you courtesy of The Chapel and So Tunbridge Wells magazine. To enter this competition send your name, address, phone number and email address on a postcard to: SoTW Chapel Competition, 3, Cumberland Walk Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1UJ Or you can email your details to: info@sotunbridgewells.co.uk Closing date: Midnight on 31st January 2010, after which the winning name will be drawn at random. This prize is for the winner only and is non transferable. There is no cash alternative to the prize and all parts of the prize need to be taken before the end of 2010 (massage for two to be taken before 31st April 2010). A stylist will be matched to your needs and requirements as specific requested stylists will not always be available. The prize is available Monday to Friday between the hours of 9:00 and 6:00. All standard competition Terms and Conditions of the Magazine People Ltd apply. Only one entry per person per household. Entrants must be over 18. Editor’s decision is final.
To find out more about The Chapel visit thechapel.co.uk
“TODAY THE CHAPEL AND ITS TEAM ARE RENOWNED ACROSS THE INDUSTRY AND TRAVEL THE WORLD TEACHING THEIR GOSPEL.”
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
A TOTALLY NEW APPROACH TO FLOWERS AND FLORAL DESIGN
39 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1XL
01892 529636 - 529353 www.styleworkshop.co.uk sales@styleworkshop.co.uk Opening hours 9am - 6pm Monday - Saturday
1A THE PANTILES Your window to the largest database of developers, self builders and investors in the South East.
More land available/required. Free appraisals and advice. For any land and property related matters please contact either Steve Donnelly or Andrea Hawkes on 01892 619289 or email info@chapelplacelimited.com Details of all our sites currently available can be found on our website www.chapelplacelimited.com
74
JANUARY 2010
C H I L D ’ S P L AY
SO
WE BRING YOU THE LATEST IN CHILDREN’S CHIC; FROM SWEET TREATS TO DANCING DVDS, FAIRYTALES TO KID’S COUTURE Fairy footsteps There are few little girls who don’t dream of being a fairy (or an elf in the case of little boys) at some stage in their childhood. Dance Like the Flower Fairies™, a new DVD produced by Tunbridge Wells based Khaki Films, will have children spellbound as they follow the adventures of fairies Lavender, Willow and Tulip and learn their dances step-by-step. The DVD, which has masses of live action dancing and music enhanced with animated imagery, is aimed at four to ten year olds of any ability. Priced at £9.99, it’s available at all good DVD stockists, including amazon.co.uk
Once upon a time… Blow away the cobwebs post Christmas and take the family on a hunt for Little Red Riding Hood, Hansel and Gretel and Beauty and the Beast. All these characters, and many other classic children’s favourites, are hiding in the grounds of Leeds Castle (Dec 26 – Jan 4) waiting to be discovered. All kids who complete the Fairy Tale Trail can exchange their trail cards for a reward. Tickets to the Castle and grounds start at £9.50 and the Fairy Tale Trail is included in the price. See leeds-castle.co.uk or call 01622 765 400 to book.
Just like Dad’s It’s hard not to love child-sized versions of adult wardrobe staples and this camel coat is no exception. The classic cut, hand-stitched finishing and luxurious colour smartens up any outfit and it’s drycleanable, so you don’t have to worry if your little man finds some mud! For boys aged two to 14, priced £59.95 from The Children Salon on TW High Street. 01892 524 763
Dinner time If persuading your offspring to eat their vegetables is an uphill struggle, giving them a dinner plate especially for them may well help. Which is why we love the Dancing Mice and Men at Work ranges from pottery doyenne Emma Bridgewater. Colourful and child-friendly, the collection features melamine dinner sets for the younger members of the family, while those ready to graduate to ‘grown-up’ tableware can have these gorgeous prints on scaled down mugs and pottery plates; perfect for little hands. The melamine range starts at £4 for a beaker, while the pottery series costs from £11.95 for a baby mug. Available at Between the Lines, Royal Victoria Place, TW 01892 616 716.
Sweet treat Humbugs, Rhubarb and Custard, Fruit Salads and Black Jacks… why not introduce the next generation to a few old favourites. The newly opened Sweets ‘N Shakes in Tunbridge Wells offers row upon row of classic sweets as well as more modern treats, such as the ‘create your own flavour’ milkshake. It’s the perfect place to spend pocket money. 70 Mount Pleasant Road, TW. sweetsnshakes.com JANUARY 2010
77
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
ballards ■ Specialist in Traditional, Antique &
Modern Re-upholstery
■ Curtain Making ■ Upholstered Furniture made to order ■ An Extensive Range of Fabrics from all
leading suppliers
■ Free Measuring & Estimating Service
ESTABLISHED FAMILY BUSINESS WITH OVER 35 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE
Call: 01892 890033 Unit 1 Bayham Farm Buildings, Little Bayham, Lamberhurst TN3 8BD
78
JANUARY 2010
PROPERTY
SO
THE PORTFOLIO AN EXQUISITE COLLECTION OF PROPERTY, HOMES AND INTERIORS
JANUARY 2010
79
Frant o ff ice 0 1 8 92 750999 Goudhurst o ffice 0 1 5 80 211888 Hors mond en off ic e 0 1 892 724488 Mat field o ff ice 0 1 8 92 724949
FRANT VILLAGE
OUTSKIRTS OF HORSMONDEN
TICEHURST VILLAGE
This delightful early Nineteenth Century Grade II Listed attached Country Cottage is situated within the sought-after picturesque village of Frant. The charming Cottage retains many period features throughout, comprising: Kitchen, Sitting Room, Bathroom and Two Double Bedrooms. To the side of the Cottage there is a small Terrace and a charming walled Cottage Garden with Two Stores, as well as a second Lawned Garden to the front. This little Gem would make the perfect country retreat for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of the Big City. There is superb scope for some modernisation of this beautiful Cottage, creating an irresistible Home. Nearby Royal Tunbridge Wells provides an eclectic variety of Shops & Restaurants & a Mainline Station with Rail services to London.
This delightful Semi-Detached Country Cottage features Grounds of approx. 0.76 of an Acre including a small fenced Paddock, Gardens & Parking. The Unlisted Cottage is located on the outskirts of the pretty Village of Horsmonden with its attractive Village Green and selection of local Shops. The well proportioned family accommodation comprises: Entrance Hall, Sitting Room and Dining Room-both with Victorian style Fireplaces, Kitchen/ Breakfast Room with French doors to the Garden. Utility Room, Cloakroom, Master Bedroom with En-Suite Bathroom, Three further Bedrooms and a Family Bathroom. The nearby villages of Marden and Paddock Wood offer further Shops and Mainline Rail Services into Central London. Royal Tunbridge Wells has a Shopping Centre and National Chain Stores.
Situated in the heart of the historic and picturesque Village of Ticehurst, with a variety of excellent local Shops and services is this beautifully presented Grade II Listed attached character Cottage. With exposed beams throughout, this very attractive Cottage combines a wealth of charming original features with modern day comforts. The well presented, enchanting accommodation is arranged over three floors and comprises: Entrance Hall, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Dining Room with fireplace, Utility Room, Cloakroom, Sitting Room with Two Wood Burning Stoves, Sun Room, Four Double Bedrooms and a Family Bathroom. The Cottage features a delightful Courtyard Garden and off-road Parking to the front. Nearby Stonegate and Wadhurst provide fast Mainline Rail Services into Central London.
HORSMONDEN VILLAGE
STAPLEHURST VILLAGE
ARGOS HILL, ROTHERFIELD
A hidden Gem. This Detached period Cottage is surprisingly UNLISTED and believed to date back to circa C18 with later additions. The well proportioned accommodation Comprises: Entrance Hall/Sun Room, Sitting Room, Kitchen, Dining Room, Boot Room, Study, Four Bedrooms and a Family Bathroom. The pretty, mature Gardens feature a Pond and various Lawned Areas, are totally secluded and wrap around the property. There are 2 Separate Parking Areas as well as a Detached Double Garage with recently lapsed planning for conversion into a One Bedroom Annexe. The Cottage is located within walking distance of the Shops, Village Green and the much sought after Village Primary School. Paddock Wood has a Waitrose Supermarket & Mainline Rail Services into Central London.
Situated on a quiet, no-through Lane within walking distance of the Shops & local Country Inns, this unique Grade II Listed period Cottage has been restored and beautifully presented to provide an elegant combination of contemporary meets traditional living. Comprising: Reception Hall, Sitting Room featuring Inglenook, Cloakroom, Bespoke Oak Kitchen with AGA and Granite tops, Dining Room with Inglenook, Conservatory, Master Bedroom with En-Suite, 3 further Bedrooms & a Family Bathroom. Externally the Lawned Gardens amount to approx. 0.38 Acre and feature a stocked Pond, various seating areas, a Detached Double Garage, Utility Room and Office. The Garden backs on to gently rolling countryside. Staplehurst provides Mainline Trains into London. Cranbrook School Catchment.
Located in a brilliant elevated position, this Detached Family Home features far reaching rural views over the surrounding countryside. The well proportioned accommodation comprises: Entrance Porch, Dining Room with Fireplace, Sitting Room, Sun Room, Family Room, Ground Floor Shower Room, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Utility, Integrated Garage, Study Area. Four Double Bedrooms-One with an En Suite Shower Room and access to a delightful roof Terrace, and a Family Bathroom. Excellent Loft conversion potential (subject to planning). Off Road Parking for several Cars with planning permission for a 2 Storey Double Garage, and Secluded Gardens of just under an Acre with a decked Terrace, Swimming Pool, Orchard and Woodland. Wadhurst provides fast Rail Services into London.
£225,000 FREEHOLD
£549,950 FREEHOLD
£425,000 FREEHOLD
£445,000 FREEHOLD
£565,000 FREEHOLD
OIEO £575,000 FREEHOLD
OPEN 7 days a week Monday-Friday 9.00am - 5.30pm Saturday, Sunday & Bank Holidays 9.30am - 5.30pm
Mary Stanley
Jane Beard
Katie Brown
Caroline Cheney
Tom Clarke
Jaime Fairbarns
Jill Finn
Jemima Goodson
Bryony Gordon
OUTSKIRTS OF SMARDEN VILLAGE
OUTSKIRTS OF SANDHURST VILLAGE
RURAL BROAD OAK, BREDE
This elegant Detached Country House offers bright and beautifully presented rooms in a lovely Garden setting on the outskirts of this popular and picturesque Village. Believed to date back to c1901, the property has been sympathetically extended to provide comfortable and spacious Family living accommodation including a wonderfully inspired conversion of the Attic. Comprising: Entrance Hall, Kitchen, Dining Room, Utility Room, Cloakroom, Study, Sitting Room, 4 First Floor Bedrooms (one with En-Suite Shower Room), Family Bathroom and 2 Attic Bedrooms (one with a ‘secret’ Children’s Den). Externally the property benefits from a Double Garage and Car Port, Two Sheds and approx. 1/3 Acre of Gardens. Nearby Pluckley & Headcorn offer Mainline Rail Services into London.
A beautifully refurbished and renovated Detached Twin Kiln Oast House believed to originally date back to the 1850s. The light and flexible Family accommodation of some 2978sq. ft comprises: Entrance Hall, Drawing Room with Fireplace, Grand Conservatory, Family Room, stunning Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Roundel Sitting Room and Dining Room, Utility Room, Cloakroom, Master Bedroom with En-Suite Shower Room, Five further Bedrooms and Two Bathrooms. There is a south facing Lawned Garden to the rear of the Oast and ample Parking to the front, with planning permission for a Timber Framed Double Garage with a Room above. Staplehurst provides fast Mainline Rail Services into Central London. The Oast is located within the renowned Cranbrook School Catchment Area. No Chain.
A stunning Detached 3638sq.ft. Family House. This property is certainly fit for entertaining! With Three generously proportioned Reception Rooms and Five equally impressive Bedrooms in addition to: an Entrance Hall, Cloakroom, Reception Hall, Kitchen with Larder and AGA, Utility Room, Morning Room, Conservatory, Wet Room, Indoor Swimming Pool with Sauna and Five En-Suite Shower/Bathrooms, Two Garages, a Detached Barn with Annexe potential (subject to Planning) and a Tennis Court. Numerous Windows and French Doors allow light to flood into the property and exploit the sensational elevated rural Views over the Private Gardens and Grounds of approximately 11.48 Acres (including Paddocks and Woodland with a Pond - superb Equestrian potential !!).
RURAL SUTTON VALENCE
RURAL WHETSTED
LAMBERHURST VINEYARD, LAMBERHURST
This Detached, single storey Country Property is the perfect place to come home to. Generously proportioned, this Family Home offers a Reception Hall, Drawing Room, Sitting Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, Utility Room, Cloakroom, Family Room/Bedroom Four, Master Bedroom with Dressing Area and En-Suite Shower Room, Two further Double Bedrooms and a Family Bathroom. Step outside to discover a Detached Annexe with Sitting Room/Dining Room, Two Bedrooms, Kitchen and a Disabled Shower Room. A Detached Log Cabin completes this Trio of Properties with an Open Plan Living Area, 3 Bedrooms & a Family Bathroom. The Grounds feature a Swimming Pool, Large Pond with Waterfall, various Terraces and Lawns, a raised Koi Pond, a Quadruple Garage and ample Parking.
This fine example of an UNLISTED Detached Country Farmhouse, extended and modernised to form a delightful period family home, stands majestically within its own Grounds, totalling over 32 Acres. The capacious accommodation comprises: Entrance Hall, Sitting Room, Kitchen/Breakfast Room with Rayburn and walk-in Larder, Utility Room, Cloakroom, Drawing Room, Summer Room/Office and Dining Room. The triple aspect Master Bedroom has a vaulted ceiling and an En-Suite Bathroom. There are Three further Double Bedrooms and a Family Bathroom. The Grounds include Pastureland, Woodland and a Barn with Equestrian possibilities. Lawned Gardens incorporate a pretty Pond, Water Feature and Terraces. Paddock Wood has Mainline Rail Services into London.
An extremely attractive Grade II Listed Oast and Barn conversion in a sought after location between the picturesque Village Green and Lamberhurst Vineyard. The well proportioned accommodation of some 3,547 sq.ft comprises: Reception Hall, Drawing Room with Fireplace, Sitting Room, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Dining Room, Snug, Study, Rear Hall, Cloakroom, Laundry Room, Ground Floor Shower Room, Principal Bedroom with Bathroom, Guest Bedroom with a vaulted ceiling and En-Suite Shower Room, Three further Double Bedrooms and a Family Bathroom. Within the beautiful Grounds of approx. One Acre are various Lawns and Terraces, Sheds, a Paddock, off road Parking and a substantial Detached Outbuilding which is currently divided into Office Units but could become Garaging or an Annexe subject to planning permission.
£700,000 FREEHOLD
£775,000 FREEHOLD
£895,000 FREEHOLD
£1,050,000 FREEHOLD
£895,000 FREEHOLD
OIEO £1,290,000 FREEHOLD
All Viewings Conducted Laura Hoadley
Allan Killeen
Jan Killeen
Harriet Matthews
Helen Mathews
Teresa Parker
Pam Rowland
Debbie Samuels
Kerrie Tyler
Chez Van Aswegen
www.countrypropertygroup.com
FR ANT OFFICE 01892 750999 GOUDHUR ST OFF ICE 01580 211888 H OR SMONDEN OFF ICE 01892 724488 M ATFIELD OF FICE 01892 724949
Rural Tunbridge Wells Price Guideline
ÂŁ1,100,000 FREEHOLD
Stunningly located at the head of a meandering rural private drive this truly superb, capacious Oasthouse occupies a very enviable position with distant views over its own 12.33 Acres of beautiful well stocked Gardens, a fenced Pond, Garaging, Paddocks, Woodland and useful large Outbuildings. Internally exposed beams abound creating considerable charm and character to the well-presented accommodation: Reception Hall, Dining Room, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Utility Room, Inner Hall/Family Room, Study, 2 Double Bedrooms and a Family Bathroom. The First Floor has a magnificent Vaulted Drawing Room, 3 further Double Bedrooms and a Family Bathroom/En-Suite. Ideally situated for good Schools, excellent Shops in Royal Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge, plus a choice of 2 Mainline Stations. The A21 connects to the Motorways.
Mary Stanley
Jane Beard
Katie Brown
Caroline Cheney
Tom Clarke
Jaime Fairbarns
Jill Finn
Jemima Goodson
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Monday-Friday 9.00am - 5.30pm Saturday, Sunday & Bank Holidays 9.30am - 5.30pm
Bryony Gordon
Laura Hoadley
Allan Killeen
Jan Killeen
Harriet Matthews
Helen Mathews
Teresa Parker
Pam Rowland
Debbie Samuels
Kerrie Tyler
Chez Van Aswegen
ALL VIEWINGS CONDUCTED www.countrypropertygroup.com
helping to unearth
the perfect buyer for your home.
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
your local audio and visual specialists
ULD O H S S STEM Y S EN D E N S T O SOU ND N A D R A BE HE Your entire music collection, accessible anywhere in your home, all at the touch of a button Contact us today for a demonstration and free site-visit:
01892 860801 www.progressive-av.com
86
JANUARY 2010
Tunbridge wells
SO
The
ULTIMATE FAMILY DETACHED lasT monTh we meT John ellioTT, The man behind The ProPerTy emPire ThaT is millwood designer homes in Tonbridge. we Promised you an eXclusive Tour of his own ÂŁ10million home in franT ThaT has JusT won gold in The besT luXury house caTegory of The whaT house? awards 2009. here iT is January 2010
87
SO
Tunbridge wells
T
yburn House, completed just over a year ago, was designed with two things in mind; to provide a luxurious home for John Elliott and his family and to showcase the skills and finish that Millwood Designer Homes can offer. The result is a place that’s really quite remarkable. Once through the electronic gates, the long and winding drive leads through pleasant Kentish grounds to the main courtyard where the façade of the building displays huge Tudor-inspired oak beams and epic double-doors, exuding quality of craftsmanship and a feeling, almost, of nobility. no expense has been spared in the construction, with custommade brickwork to imperial sizes laid to a lavish flemish bond and traditional reclaimed clay roof tiles. The external features give you an idea of just how stunning a home this is although it’s when you begin to get your head around the details and numbers involved in the construction, that the property becomes even more special. For starters, the complete floor area of Tyburn House is over 14,000ft2 which equates to approximately five tennis courts, while the oak alone, sourced from sustainable forests and used on interior panelling and framework, cost £600,000. There are 56-acres of mature country grounds, two Jacuzzis (one inside and one out), five large garages and for us the icing on the cake, a shower room for Ben the Labrador. These features are complemented by a surround-sound cinema room, a heated indoor swimming pool plus a tennis court. A lush environment indeed and one which all together makes this six-bedroom Kentish mansion worth an estimated £10million. Despite its size the property offers plenty of comfortable areas where John Elliott and his family can relax and unwind. There’s the cosy snug for chilling out in the evening, the library for those quite moments, the classically-inspired drawing room and, of course, the spacious family room. And when business needs tending to at home there’s an impressive yet functional study. The property took just over two years to build and is not only an amazing place to live, but also to entertain. The impressive triple-height dining room is the perfect setting for formal dinners and an underground temperaturecontrolled cellar means your wine of choice will be stored in perfect conditions. Plus, at the end of the evening once nightcaps have been disposed of, there’s an entire wing dedicated to your guests sleeping quarters and living room. But really the only way to fully appreciate this ultimate country pad is to have a look around. So, please join us…
88
January 2010
Tmuin lb lw r iodogde h woem ll es
“There are 56-acres of mature country grounds, two Jacuzzis, five large garages and for us the icing on the cake, a shower room for Ben the Labrador.� January 2010
SO
89
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
SO
BWI, your partner for wine It takes time and skill to nurture the development of each wine, experience and knowledge to create the best quality and a high standard from each vintage. At BWI we apply the same reasoning, and the same approach to ensure we can provide the very best quality service to our private clients. Over many years we have built enviable contacts and relationships with the chateaux and negociants of Bordeaux. This enables us to provide the highest quality advice throughout the year, and specifically during the En Primeur season: • Sourcing • Broking • Cellar Building • Investing We offer exclusive opportunities to purchase highly sort after and unusual wines and formats, such as 2007 d’Yquem Nebuchadnezzar’s. Whatever your requirements from Bordeaux, BWI can provide you with a high quality service. Offering the right advice, the right sourcing, at the right time delivered to you from our team of professionals. Speak to our wine specialists: Simon Quinn Direct line: 01732 749 027 simon@bwiltd.co.uk Martin Lea Direct line: 01732 749 028 martin@bwiltd.co.uk
BWI
2 The Mews, 16 Holly Bush Lane, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN13 3TH BWI 01732 77934316 Holly Bush Lane, 2 The Mews, martin@bwiltd.co.uk Sevenoaks, Kent, TN13 3TH 01732 779343 www.bwiltd.co.uk martin@bwiltd.co.uk
www.bwiltd.co.uk
JANUARY 2010
3
TMUIN LB LW R IODOGDE H WOEM LL ES
SO
“AT THE END OF THE EVENING ONCE NIGHTCAPS HAVE BEEN DISPOSED OF, THERE’S AN ENTIRE WING DEDICATED TO SLEEPING QUARTERS AND LIVING ROOM FOR GUESTS.” JANUARY 2010
91
12 Union Square Eridge Road The Pantiles Tunbridge Wells TN4 8HE
Tel 01892 617462
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
SO
J a nu a r y 2 0 1 0
93
SO
94
tunbridge wells
January 2010
T U N B R I DPGREO W P EE R LT LY S
Fusion
Finding a TIRED OF THE SAME OLD INTERIOR OPTIONS? MIX THINGS UP BY FUSING TWO STUNNING ERAS INTO ONE CHIC DÉCOR
T
SO
his month my clients have a particularly difficult task for me. They want some assistance with helping to transform their characterless TW semi into a sharply styled, town pad. The problem for them in the past has stemmed from the couple’s difference in tastes. On one hand the lawyer husband is a big fan of traditional styling, while the graphic designer wife is interested in the clean lines of modern design. I’ve found a way to appeal to both of their preferences by mixing the more traditional aspects of 30’s Bauhaus style with modern, chic touches, and luckily for them this is a look that’s very much in vogue. The key to this look is contrast. So, playing certain materials off one another can work well; for instance stained woods featured alongside flawless white plastics, or deep opulent fabrics and rugs against short, fine carpets. The golden rule with working in this way is to remember that you’re looking to fuse two styles together, not to clash them.
WORDS HARRIET LOUVELLE
The Bedroom
The bedroom should always be a place for comfort and relaxation. Certainly it’s a room in which many would hesitate to incorporate the more art deco styles of the early part of the last century. However, using the more utilitarian and functional aspects of that design era can work well in the bedroom when mixed with other, softer touches. Here HKS of Heathfield have supplied us with luxurious Daval cabinets and furniture which offer both the traditional aspect that the husband is looking for, as well as accommodating the more modern approach sought after by the wife. The skilled craftsmen at Daval have been making furniture for over 30 years and for the last 25, HKS have been selling their stunning pieces. The result of the partnership here is a space that feels roomy and open, despite the huge amounts of storage offered by the cabinets and wardrobes in what is essentially a modest-sized bedroom. ➢
JANUARY 2010
95
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
The highest standards of production are obvious and the choice of materials ensure that the full-length cupboards close with a reassuring thud and the draws slide closed with a slick action; no rattling or ramming required here. When doing this kind of décor yourself, remember to use plenty of soft edges to offset the right angles of the deco design. In this case, we’ve used soft, flowing shapes in the room’s ornaments, art and haberdashery. Furthermore, the choice was made to subtly use a drape rather than something like venetian blinds, just to make the room that bit more informal and comfortable.
The Kitchen
I’ve been told that the husband considers himself a bit of a chef, so in the kitchen we’ve decided to cater for his preferences and lean towards more traditional design features reminiscent of a country farm house with modern touches. Woodwork in Southborough have helped us here at the back of the house where the exposed beams make for an interesting feature, drawing the eye to the top of the walls, accentuating the room’s generous proportions. We keep our designer wife happy in this room too by using sleek granite worktops and highly chic modern appliances. The subtle colours of the turned columns on the island match the back wall and also link in nicely with the deep mauve leading out to the hall. Natural flooring adds to the appeal of this room and ties together the wooden panelling of the cupboards, the island and the exposed beams. This light wood helps keep this roomy feel, and it’s this light that is one of this rooms key attributes. To emphasise this spacious look we’ve added uplighters to the top of the kitchen fixtures. Woodwork have delivered exactly as they promised here and the couple are overwhelmed with their new functional and fashionable kitchen. Oh, and the kids are happy too – with the size of the larder.
The Bathroom
Ripples in The Pantiles have once again come to the rescue with this magnificent shower room which adopts a less is more approach when it comes to its clean contemporary design. Having indulged our lawyer with the design of the kitchen, our graphic designer gets the major input in the bathroom, which takes 21st century bathing to another level, utilising the very latest in shower innovation and technology. This bright refreshing room is dedicated to showering, with unnecessary extras kept to a minimum. Combining a distinctive circular theme, chosen for its simplicity and impact, with bold sea-inspired tones, Ripples has given this spacious wet room a dramatic sultry feel. The client wanted a room to really wake her up in the mornings, so we’ve created a room that is visually stimulating. A tall section of opaque glass blocks at the far end can be illuminated from behind at night for a dramatic ambience. Clever hidden recesses either side, provide hidden storage for unsightly toiletries, leaving the main focus on the bold colours and a large rainwater overhead shower, as well as a separate wall mounted head, offering versatile bathing. Voila! SO
CHOSEN SPECIALISTS: Woodwork Traditional Handmade Furniture Ltd Tel: 01892 533273 Web: wwthf.co.uk
96
JANUARY 2010
HKS Tel: 01435 865599 Web: hks-uk.com Ripples Tel: 01892 617462 Web: ripples.ltd.uk
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
SO
n KAREN JACKSON INTERIORS n
We offer a complete and personal Interior Design Service Please call for an informal discussion about your requirements Tel/Fax: 01892 618 619
n
Mobile: 0772 912 1594
info@karenjacksoninteriors.co.uk
n
www.karenjacksoninteriors.co.uk
Granite Transformations manufacture and install Granite, Stone, Quartz and Glass worktops
R E O VIC DO ER E N S BL HE NG ILA TC YI A KI RA AV SP W RE NO
I thought I needed a new kitchen until I discovered... the worktop that fits on top!
At Granite Transformations we offer a complete package for updating your work surface and appliances. Fitting a new worktop is fast and effective. There is no need to remove old surfaces, we fit directly over your existing surface. We guarantee complete peace of mind from start to finish.
FI
W O N ER LL N OFF
TO
CA N
O
JA
D
U
T
A
BO
Book a FREE home consultation with our interior designer and we’ll show you how easy it is to transform your kitchen worktops. Call now 01892 517385
U
T
O
U
R
Showroom open: Mon-Fri 9.00-4.30pm Sat 9.00-4.00pm Unit 5, Tunbridge Wells Trade Park, Longfield Road, (next to Build Centre), Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 3QF www.granitetransformations.co.uk/tunwells
J a nu a r y 2 0 1 0
97
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
THE GALLERY
on this page: Mysterious Land by Mark Johnston Oil on Canvas 100 x 140 cm £7000 Paper Chase by Amanda Page - Collage 84 x 84cm £2300 Star by Nicholas Archer Oil on Canvas 96 x 122 cm £3900 Mace by Robina Yasmin 80 x 80 cm £1700
98
JA UN U E A2R0Y0 92 0 1 0
T U N B RTIHDEG EG AWLELLELRSY
SO
on this page: Ash by Adam Hargreaves Oil on Canvas 122 x 60 cm £2050 Float with red by Elaine Jones Oil on canvas 120 x 120cm £2600 The Star Above by Steven Outram RBA Oil on Canvas 56 x 51 cm £3300 Helping Hand by Dawn benson Bronze Resin height 48cm £1670 All works featured can be viewed at the Fairfax Gallery , the exhibition runs until January 28, 2010. Fairfax Gallery, 23 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells. 01892 525525 fairfaxgallery.com J A N UJ A U RNYE 220001 0 9
99
SO
100
tunbridge wells
January 2010
Grimm Viewing
ART
SO
WORDS DAN SMITH
A RARE TREAT FOR DAVID HOCKNEY LOVERS AS AN EXHIBITION OF WORK BY THE HIGHLY INFLUENTIAL BRITISH ARTIST ARRIVES IN TUNBRIDGE WELLS
A
The Princess in her Tower from The Little Sea Hare
Rapunzel, Rapunzel Let Down Your Hair from Rapunzel
collection of etchings by David Hockney is in town this month as part of a touring exhibition showing off his interpretations of the classic fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm. The 39 illustrations, which take inspiration from six of the famous folklore tales, were etched onto copper plates by the artist between May and November 1969. On show are representations of some of the best known of Grimm’s stories such as Rapunzel and Rumpelstilzchen. But also featured are his works on the lesser-known tales of Old Rinkrank, Fundevogel, The Little Sea Hare and The Boy Who Left Home to Learn Fear. Though the stories are now almost always attributed to the 19th Century German academics, as Hockney points out, they weren’t the original authors of the word-of-mouth tales: “The stories weren’t written by the Brothers Grimm… they came across this woman called Catherina Dorothea Viehmann, who told 20 stories to them in this simple language, and they were so moved by them that they wrote them down word for word as she spoke.”
The Boy in the Fish from The Little Sea Hare
Many of the etchings reference the styles of the Old Masters, for instance the illustrations of Rapunzel are inspired by Breughel and, elsewhere in the exhibition, Leonardo da Vinci is the muse for the images drawn for Fundevogel. Seventy-two-year-old Hockney is one of the most successful British artists today and is perhaps best known for his minimalist paintings of the late ‘60s, such as The Splash. Since then, he’s used many mediums and his work has been exhibited around the world for decades. Still creating work, he has temporarily left his Californian home and returned to his native Yorkshire to create a selection of English landscapes for an exhibition planned for New York. SO
The local showing is open from Saturday January 9 to Sunday February 7 2010 at the Tunbridge Wells Museum and Art Gallery in Mount Pleasant Road. Admission is free.
JANUARY 2010
101
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
FO R SIZE S
16 and up E LV I are the UK’s leading independent fashion retailers for size 16 and up. We aim to produce inspirational clothes, expertly designed for size 16 and up. We passionately believe in creating a joyful shopping experience, with service that always inspires.
www.elvi.co.uk
Elvi is located on Level 1, Royal Victoria Place Shopping Centre
01892 541485
102
JANUARY 2010
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
J a nu a r y 2 0 1 0
SO
103
SO
tunbridge wells
H i gh c l ass fam i ly b u tchers l oca l ly p ro d u ce d free range meats
Owned by the Fuller Family for 35 years, earning an excellent reputation for quality meat with a friendly personal service. We specialise in Free Range Meats, produced locally in Kent and East Sussex. Game is also available when in season. At Fuller’s our fully trained butchers are able to advise you on cuts of meat, as well as recipes and cooking tips. We also stock a wide selection of home cooked meats, pies and English and Continental cheeses etc., from our delicatessen.
5 Nelson Road, Hawkenbury,Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5AW
01892 526563
www.fuller-butcher.co.uk
104
January 2010
SO
tunbridge wells
MONTROSE Fine dine Celebrate New Year’s Eve with fine wine in great style Fine Dine and Wine with Style A grand six course banquet with plenty of fun. See in the New Year with a glass of complimentary champagne and Auld Lang Syne. £95 per person.
Enjoy modern European cuisine with a British bias and probably the best and most affordable wine list in town. Also, special Sunday lunches (last orders 5:30pm) for all the family. All produce is sourced locally.
Wednesday is Steak and Fish Night Chef’s Amuse Bouche, a choice of starters and an entrecote steak or seasonal fish of the day, served with hand cut chips – a bargain at £18.95. À la carte also available.
BOOK NOW 01892 513161 MONTROSE
MONTROSE The New Independent Boutique Restaurant
The New Independent Boutique Restaurant Southborough Common, Tunbridge Wells, Southborough Common, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 Kent, TN40RX 0RX
Open: Tues-Sat Open: Tues-Sat for for lunch lunch and and dinner dinner
Sun: Special Sunday lunches all day from
Sun: Special Sunday lunches all day 12.00-17.30 (last orders) from 12.00 – 17.30 (last orders)
www.montroserestaurant.co.uk www.montroserestaurant.co.uk e-mail: bookings@montroserestaurant.co.uk e-mail: bookings@montroserestaurant.co.uk
4 course meal including champagne ~ £48.00 Music and dancing • set menu featuring local game • evening entertainment provided by a local band
Entry tickets £10
106
January 2010
R E S TA U R A N T S
SO
WHAT’S REALLY APPEALING IS THE SEAFOOD SOURCE WORDS DAMIAN COTTON
SANKEY’S IN TUNBRIDGE WELLS WAS LAST MONTH AWARDED THE TITLE “MOST SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT” BY THE PRODUCERS OF THE END OF THE LINE DOCUMENTARY AND FISH2FORK WEBSITE. BUT CAN SUSTAINABILITY BE TRULY DELICIOUS AS WELL AS COMMENDABLY VIRTUOUS? I DECIDE TO FIND OUT
T
he restaurant at 39 Mount Ephraim has been home to Sankey’s Seafood Brasserie & Oyster Bar for 22 years and the current General Manager, Matt Sankey, is the third generation of the family to be in the hospitality business. That’s a degree of continuity that suggests consistent quality. On arrival, I have a quick look around the ground floor level pub, which boasts an eclectic selection of beers and ciders, including exclusive ales from Westerham and Goachers breweries plus rarities from across mainland Europe. Then it’s downstairs to the Brasserie where I’m charmingly greeted and seated by one of the team of polished and professional waiting staff. Matt Sankey joins me and we discuss his restaurant’s philosophy. The food ranges from standards such as battered haddock and chips and fish pie, to classic shellfish (especially oysters, crabs and lobsters); to fresh wet fish such as halibut, Dover sole and skate. What’s crucial is that they’re from well-stocked and (that word again) sustainable fisheries. The halibut is organically farmed in Argyll, the Dover sole only from the Channel and never from the Irish Sea, and the “skate” is thornback ray, a close relative that is not endangered. Tucked away behind the serving counter is up-to-date information on every species of fish served, its provenance and its ecological status. The entire team is thoroughly trained in communicating the merits of each fish, and customers are invited to ask, by a message on the menu. This is serious stuff. You can eat here knowing that you do no harm. How often can one be quite so certain? As well as being a restaurant, Sankey’s has long been a wholesale fish supplier to other restaurants and pubs; hence the logical step of opening a retail fishmonger, now trading on Vale Road. The family has a long history with Richard Hawards Oyster Company whose Mersea oysters are renowned. The National Lobster Hatchery charity, by the way, receives a £3.50 donation for each lobster sold. The wealth and history of knowledge here is remarkable. Sankey’s really does care. ➢
JANUARY 2010
107
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
So, we’ve established the restaurant’s ecological credentials. What about the flavour? If the sourcing of ingredients is so impeccable then for me it has to be the oysters, a split between Natives and Gigs, or Rock oysters as they are more commonly known (£9.60). Classically served on crushed ice with shallot vinegar, they’ve been carefully opened so not a trace of shell is inside. The Natives are good, minerally and clean tasting. The Gigas are even better –.subtle, plump and full of flavour without being overbearing – the essence of the sea. Matt Sankey has decided to stay and lunch with me and orders his favourite Queeny scallops grilled with garlic on the half-shell (£7.50). I assume they’re delicious; they certainly vanish quickly. We also have a taste of the Flaky Smoked Salmon (£7.50) which is lighter, moister and much more pleasant than commercial hot smoked salmon. Another tenet of Sankey’s is to offer quality and affordable wines. The house wines are produced by Domaine du
“THE DEVOURING OF THE CRAB HAS BROKEN THE FLOW OF CONVERSATION AND I’VE ALSO FAILED TO SNEAK A TASTE OF MATT SANKEY’S MOULES MARINIERES AND FRIES”
DINNER MENU: Starters from: Mains from: Desserts from: Wine - Glasses from: Bottles from:
£5.50 £9.95 £4.50 £3.50 £14.00
RESERVATIONS: 01892 511 422 SANKEYS.CO.UK
108
JANUARY 2010
Grand Mayne, in the Cotes du Duras just south of the Dordogne. The Sauvignon Blanc is crisp, fresh and zesty and excellent value for (£3.50) a glass. The more expensive wines are sold at a reduced margin, making them much more accessible than is usual in a restaurant. Commendable indeed. For my main course, I cannot but order Sankey’s signature dish of Dressed Cornish Cock Crab (£16.95). It can be served hot with a coconut Thai sauce or spicy piri-piri and rice, but I stick to the traditional cold crab with salad. Sankey’s crabs are bought from Harvey’s of Newlyn – a relationship that goes back almost half a century – and are delivered live on a daily basis, then picked and prepared by an expert chef. A big beast is brought to the table. It looks almost enough for two. The main shell spans the plate, supported on the pre-cracked claws and legs, surrounded by thick cut and very fresh buttered brown bread and pristine salad along with a pot of homemade mayonnaise. The shell is piled high with meat, glistening white and succulent brown. The crab has been cooked just right and the flesh retains its texture. Indeed I will go so far as to say that this is the best I’ve tasted and I don’t even like brown crab meat. This, though, is so fresh that it has a delicacy and gentle flavour that have me wiping the corners of the shell with bits of bread. It’s the sort of dish that a good fish restaurant is all about – impeccably sourced, skillfully prepared, and simply served with only the best accompaniments. The devouring of the crab has broken the flow of conversation and I’ve also failed to sneak a taste of Matt Sankey’s Moules Marinieres and fries (£10.50) but they do smell heavenly and are attracting envious glances from a neighbouring table. Sadly, no room or desire for dessert, but I do indulge in a very sound double espresso. Unsurprisingly, coffee is from a specialist supplier, rather than an established mainstream brand. Next I get to review bits of the restaurant rarely mentioned in the media. The advantage of lunching with the boss gives me unfettered access backstage. The chefs are a pleasant bunch who run a very tight ship, and the cold stores are absolutely spotless and very well designed. Nowhere is there a hint of fish aromas; only the sweet smell of the sea. The sight of a bundle of razor clams fresh from the Channel, still twitching gently, almost brings back some hunger pangs. I’ve seen and worked in a lot of restaurant kitchens over the years – this is probably the only one of which Mum would approve. You can sense I’m impressed. There is a passion for quality and continuing improvement at Sankey’s that suggests that it will only become even better. If you love dining out and eating fish, come here. If you don’t like fish, then come here and you’ll learn what you’re missing. SO
SO
tunbridge wells
ANGEL The Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe definitely lives up to its brand name. Designed with greater emphasis on the driving experience, it dominates the scene as it passes through the countryside straddling the width of the lanes on the highway words Richard M. Hammond
110
January 2010
motors
SO
DELIGHT T
he ownership by a foreign manufacturer of the inherently British Rolls-Royce brand is still enough to cause consternation in some circles; consternation that’s unlikely to be calmed by a third party anecdote. Yet, it’s worth a try. The story goes like this: at a BMW pre-launch event for their executive limousine, the question of differentiating the powerful V12 engine in the new BMW model from that in the Rolls-Royce Phantom was raised. The answer deserves a place in Rolls-Royce folklore. “The new car’s engine will provide a powerful V12 delivery,” came the response from the BMW spokesperson. “The Rolls-Royce engine, on the other hand, is like being pushed along the road by the hand of an angel.” That’s the essence of the Rolls-Royce experience, and it’s evidently not lost on the present owners.
A Rolls-Royce will get you there every bit as fast, but it will be such an effortlessly calm experience that you’ll hardly notice. And so it is with the Phantom Coupe, a model designed with greater emphasis on the driving experience. The original Phantom, in both the saloon and long wheelbase form, is a vehicle tailored more towards the chauffeured experience, even though it boasts the same engine and similar performance figures as the new Coupe. In the Coupe, the driver’s seat feels like home, not least because of the amount of room inside. A 2.5 ton optical illusion, from the outside the Phantom Coupe’s sleekly-styled body hides the fact that it is more than 5.5 metres (18ft) in length and just shy of two metres (6.5ft) wide. Although not as tall as the saloon models make no mistake; it’s a giant. ➢ January 2010
111
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
In some ways, driving on road gives a little perspective. In others it simply serves to add to the illusion. At the wheel, the Phantom Coupe’s size quickly becomes apparent as driver and passengers look out over the majority of traffic, sitting at the same height as large SUV drivers. Yet in terms of its handling and performance it lives up to the sports coupe name surprisingly well, belying its size. Granted, the traction and stability control systems are key to the model’s unnatural agility, but the aluminium chassis boasts firmer damping alongside its 130 metres of precision hand welding to offer a more dynamic feel. Brake heavily from high speed and the Phantom Coupe hauls to a halt with minimum fuss, again discreetly aided by electrical governance. However, there’s nothing artificial about the way the Coupe feels firm and reassuringly responsive, maintaining grip and balance when turning sharply into a corner. In terms of power delivery from the huge V12, sub-six second 0-62mph acceleration times do not lie, which is fortunate as the grace with which the Phantom Coupe whispers up to speed may catch out the inattentive. The V12 is barely audible at tick-over, vibration through the cabin non-existent. At any speed legal in the UK, the Coupe wafts along serenely with outside noise almost entirely isolated. It’s the height of refinement. Even the Coupe body cannot detract from the model’s ease of use. Huge, rear-hinged suicide doors are light on their hinges and offer effortless access to the two rear seats. They close at the push of a button, softly sealing themselves shut and cocooning the occupants into a world of finest leather, gleaming metal switchgear and soft, shag-pile carpets. The large steering wheel, slightly thicker in the Coupe for a sportier feel, would seem absurdly oversized if it wasn’t for the Guild Hall proportions of the rest of the interior. An ergonomic masterpiece, the Phantom Coupe’s controls are intuitive and beautifully crafted. Additional controls rotate into place from their hiding places or appear under cushioned armrests when required. The feeling of craftsmanship really comes to the fore. Of course, the exterior styling speaks for itself. Elegant, muscular and timelessly stylish, the only drawback is a lack of rearward visibility due to the thick C-pillars and small rear window. As with the rest of the Phantom range, driving the Coupe does feel like being pushed along the road by an angel. Only in this more dynamic model, it’s an angel that earned its wings behind the wheel. SO
112
JANUARY 2010
FACTS AT A GLANCE: MODEL: Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe. PRICE: £297,000 on the road. ENGINE: 6.7-litre petrol developing 453bhp and 531lb/ft of torque. TRANSMISSION: Six-speed
automatic transmission, driving the rear wheels. PERFORMANCE: Max speed 155mph (electronically limited), 0-62mph 5.6 secs. CO2 EMISSIONS: 377g/km. ECONOMY: 18.0mpg.
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
Maserati Specialist AT BIRCHWOOD GARAGE, SOUTHBOROUGH
SO
(BEHIND TEXACO)
018 9 2 548 8 8 9 w w w. auto - s porti va. c om 2008 57, Gran Tourismo V8, 7,800 miles, Black with Black lthr, £59,995
2003 53, 4200 Cambiocorsa, Grey with Black Leather, 27,500 miles £21,995
2005 05, Gransport V8, 30,500 miles, Black with Black ½ lthr, £29,995
2006 56 Gransport V8, Grey with Beige lthr, 25,000 miles, £36,995
NOW OFFERING
2002 52, 4200 Cambiocorsa V8, 29,500 miles, Silver with Grey lthr, £19,990
Ferrari and Maserati servicing from £395
2006 06 Quattroporte V8, Grey with Beige, 57,800 miles, £29,995
JANUARY 2010
113
Sponsored by Warners Solicitors
WOMEN IN BUSINESS
SO
We catch up with the...
Ladies who launch WORDS RICHARD MOORE
THIS TIME LAST YEAR WE TOLD HOW THE FACE OF BUSINESS IS CHANGING AS MORE WOMEN ARE APPOINTED TO SENIOR POSITIONS IN COMPANIES OR LAUNCH THEIR OWN ENTERPRISES. WE TALKED TO SOME OF THEM TO FIND OUT THEIR VIEWS ON THE YEAR AHEAD. BUT WHAT DID ACTUALLY HAPPEN? WE CATCH UP WITH THEM FOR A CHAT
KATIE GUY Company: Maison Business Type: Home interiors, furniture and accessories shop Position: Owner Describe the last twelve months? At Maison we have seen a more erratic pattern of buying, with some customers remaining cautious while others happy to invest in significant furniture buys for their homes. I have seen a noticeable improvement in our sales trends lately as I believe confidence is being slowly restored. Have you had to make changes in the way you do business? We remain focused on combining our quality, unique stylish furniture with home accessories that inspire our customers. We have worked hard to keep our prices steady despite the euro working against us. We always focus on making our shop a beautiful and inspiring place to visit. How do you see things unfolding in 2010? Maison will continue to thrive in difficult times, I hope to see confidence increasing over the next year and we will continue to focus on delivering the best we can to our customers.
JANUARY 2010
115
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
CLAIRE WOOD Company: Woods Business Type: Restaurant Position: Director
LOUISE CLARK Company: The Brew House Business Type: Hotel Position: Chief Operating Officer Describe the last twelve months? For us the last year has been very successful – we’ve spent a lot of time building our brand and sticking to what we are good at. As the hospitality market has narrowed we have focused on making sure we create an environment that leads to repeat business rather than continually trying to find new customers. With glimmers of optimism in the market the year has ended on a much higher note allowing us to look forward to a strong new year. Have you had to make changes in the way you do business? We’ve had to be more creative over the last 12 months and also extremely proactive – there is no room in the market anymore for anyone who is trying to catch up, so we have to be ahead of the game all of the time. Every time we make a decision we focus on our guests and on the business – if change is right for both then we move very quickly. How do you see things unfolding in 2010? In hospitality each year is quite predictable – we have our slow periods counteracted by massive peaks. 2010 will see the same trends for us although guests are increasingly discerning and offer-led. The key message for us is to not fear change but to embrace it, run with it and reap the rewards of the challenges that develop.
116
JANUARY 2010
Describe the last twelve months? The beginning of a year is tough, since our trade is seasonally driven. However, we introduced a Winter Sale and Spring Promotion, and also took part in The Times ‘Eat Out for £5’ offer – which resulted in increased sales. From Easter onwards we benefited from our ‘al fresco’ season and in the Autumn the business expanded into the next door premises, with the introduction of our Produce Store. Our Christmas bookings were up almost 50%. Have you had to make changes in the way you do business? We have continued to focus on being standard driven at all times, and sticking to our core values and criteria whilst expanding the business. In practical terms, we have had to streamline the operation in all areas to meet the demand of increased business, and to maintain efficiency. How you see things unfolding in 2010? Although Tunbridge Wells still seems to be resilient in the face of the credit crunch, most people are ‘tightening their belts’ and we too will be looking to ensure we continue to give good value for money in the face of increasing costs. In the Summer months, we hope to take advantage of our increased tables outside for ‘al fresco’ eating and drinking, and events on The Pantiles.
Sponsored by Warners Solicitors
WOMEN IN BUSINESS
SO
KAREN WOOD Company: Woods Business Type: Restaurant Position: Director Describe the last twelve months? We saw increased sales and footfall in our ‘core’ restaurant trade which encouraged us to take over the next door premises at No. 64 The Pantiles – to become part Produce Store, with additional restaurant seating both inside and outside and a new bar area. The store was opened in October and is stocked with regional and seasonal fare from local suppliers, many of whom also supply Woods Restaurant. A wide range of produce is now available. Have you had to make changes in the way you do business? The principles we use in conducting our business remain the same both for the new Produce Store and the Restaurant alike. Woods caters for both the local community and the tourist trade. Our criteria is to be contemporary, regional and seasonal, so that we support the local community, are environmentally friendly and can ensure high standards at a competitive level. How do you see things unfolding in 2010? We will start to develop a range of ‘Woods’ own branded items for the Produce Store – so that our customers are able to sample what they eat in the restaurant at home too – jams and chutneys, for example. By next Christmas we hope to have a full product range available, and perhaps an online ordering service in place.
JANE STOLLERY Company: Skinners of Tunbridge Wells Business Type: Interior Design Position: Director Describe the last 12 months? Certainly different! Clients have been cautious not wanting to make costly mistakes. Have you had to make changes in the way you do business? We have enlarged our team of expertise enabling us to spend time with the increasing number of discerning clients wanting the whole of our superior design service, including the expansion of our fabric and wallpaper collections. This has been the right response, we have grown with the demand for lifestyle and image. How do you see things unfolding in 2010? The launch of our new website makes us accessible to a wider audience and we will continue to provide design beyond our clients’ expectations.
JANUARY 2010
117
SO
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
Sponsored by Warners Solicitors
CLAIRE DOMINIC Company: Claire Dominic Family Photography Business Type: Photographer Position: Owner/Photographer Describe the last twelve months? The first quarter of last year was extremely quiet for me after a very busy winter of 2008. Spring brought the customers to me for Family Shoots. I have also been working with high profile clients, like ‘The Original Bucks Fizz’, who are reforming and came to me via recommendation. Summer and now Winter 09 have had me rushed off my feet again. So, a slow start and a busy end to the year. Have you had to make changes in the way you do business? I have had to offer incentives like two for one prints and discounts for loyalty although luckily I have a fair amount of repeat custom. I have had to cut back my advertising budget, however, I am finding that most of my work actually comes from recommendations. How do you see things unfolding in 2010? I envisage another tentative time although this year I already have bookings through January, something I didn’t have this time last year. I also have weddings booked and I hope to continue to work with local theatre productions and am optimistic about 2010. But generally people are only spending what they have, and relying less on credit.
SALLY DUNN Company: Taywell Business Type: Farm Produce and Shops Position: TW Store Manager Describe the last twelve months? Incredible. Business in Goudhurst has grown as if there’s no recession and the launch of our Tunbridge Wells shop has been immensely stressful but we are now open. We’ve been thrilled with the large numbers of compliments, most of which evolve around: ‘Why did it take you so long? We’ve been waiting for years!’ Have you had to make changes in the way you do business? There’s no right or wrong way to do our business; there’s no point in getting upset when things go wrong, especially in farming. We had the best plum year ever but the supermarkets imported plums, so there was a glut of perfectly good ones that had to be thrown away. The same happened with apples. We continue to tell customers that farmers are in danger of extinction and that buying local doesn’t mean spending more money, just purchasing better quality food from a farm you can trust. How do you see things unfolding in 2010? These are exciting and challenging times since locating to the High Street means high rent and rates and food margins are low so there’s a need to educate the customer to eat better with less or no artificial colours or additives.
118
JANUARY 2010
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
de c e m ber 2 0 0 9
SO
1
LIFE &
Style
LIFE & STYLE
BELL HOUSE FABRICS Thirty years ago the seeds of the company Bell House Fabrics were sown when a small fabric shop specialising in material clearance, began trading. Since then the company has grown to become one of the leading local stockists of pretty much all fabric related goods. Silks, Italian weaves, linens and classic or contemporary prints can all be found at the store in Cranbrook High Street. And if you’re too busy to call in, you can buy from their new look website, which holds all of their stock and more. It has more than 600 fabric designs with a free sample service. Commenting on trends owner Paul Jenner (pictured) tells us:”We’re seeing a return
SMITH & WESTERN RESTAURANT It’s all hustle and bustle again down at the old West Station in Tunbridge Wells where major refurbishments have been carried out on the former railway building at a cost of £1.3million.
GET TRAVELLING There’s plenty of festive cheer at the TW based specialist travel agent Get Travelling and its
SKINNERS OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS Long recognised as an arbiter of tasteful and creative interior design, Skinners of Tunbridge Wells has just got even better. The town centre shop has broadened its remit in order to provide customers with comprehensive, bespoke interior design solutions. The consultancy service delivers innovative designs to private customers as well as commercial enterprises. Owner Jane Stollery tells us: “We have always offered interior design but have now expanded our team with a new interior designer, Beth Barker, to satisfy a growing demand. This also helps us to maintain our originality and offer new design styles.” An initial hour-long consultation within a 15 mile radius of TW is free and Skinners, which has its own client car park, is happy to provide a
SO
to colour, texture and generally a more homely look. Smart stripes, wool blends and embroideries are strong, along with accents such as cushions and borders to contrast.” He says they’re also seeing more and more customers searching for value without compromising quality and points out that: “Our January sale will offer more reductions than ever before both for our in house stock range and for our designer brands.” In fact the sale, which has 20% discounts, runs from January 4 till February 6. But the shop isn’t just for fabrics and material, its also stocks a wide range of wallpaper, curtains and blinds – making it a must visit! FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT BELLHOUSEFABRICS.CO.UK OR CALL 01580 712 555.
It’s been transformed into an American style Smith & Western Restaurant, with guest rooms, by the Cox family who have four other eateries in the south-east (Horsham, Longfield, Boxhill and Chichester). The GradeII listed building (see also p.23) dates back to the 1860’s and was a major starting point for trains running to the south coast. The work included restoration of the landmark clock on the station’s tower and Director Troy Cox tells us:” We’re thrilled to have acquired such a historic building in the town and it was always our intention to restore the clock tower. It’s been 60 years since
subsidiary Get Cruising. Now in its second year the business has proved an outstanding success for owner Gary Wardrope. While the UK travel market is in the doldrums, Get Travelling is up 98% year on year, has sold holidays worth some £1.2million, taken on three more staff and set up a new venture called Get Skiing. The Get Cruising side of the business has benefited from the boom in the UK cruise market although Gary Wardrope (pictured second from left) says that Kent people’s love of travel and a demand for quality personal advice have been the main drivers behind their success.
design-only service, or project manage an entire refurbishment. Consultation is broad-ranging, and can encompass lighting, furniture, heating solutions, window treatments, paints and wallpapers and soft furnishings. “We are happy to work across the board,” says Jane Stollery. “We have a team of expert decorators, or we can work alongside a customer’s own decorator. We can carry out a simple re-design and window treatment in a child’s bedroom, or enhance all the best features of an entire house prior to it being put on the market for sale.” In the extensive showroom, customers can browse through a wide range of sample books and swatches, and see the latest decor and furnishings ranges.
the clock has been working but we’re glad to be finally ringing the changes.” The Cox family opened their first restaurant (Horsham) in 1995 and since then have established a reputation for providing quality food in a fun environment ; there’s authentic wild west decor with walls adorned with memorabilia from life on the ranch. After the cold beers and blended cocktails you can enjoy everything from BBQ ribs and steak to homemade burgers and fajitas. CHECK IT ALL OUT WITH A VISIT TO SMITH-WESTERN.CO.UK
“Perhaps it’s the proximity of sea and airports and the channel tunnel link but people here seem more committed to travelling abroad than in some other parts of the country. We have seen little evidence of the so called ‘staycation’ trend.” Get Travelling is ranked as one of the top three independent travel agents in the UK and the business has received recognition from the cruise industry winning P&O’s 2009 Agent of the Year award. MORE INFORMATION CAN BE FOUND AT WWW.GETCRUISING.CO.UK OR CALL 01892 554701.
TO ARRANGE AN INITIAL CONSULTATION CALL 01892 510030. SKINNERS IS LOCATED AT SPENCER MEWS, 20 CAMDEN ROAD, TW. SKINNERSOFTUNBRIDGEWELLS.CO.UK
JANUARY 2010
121
SO
Sponsored by
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
Secret TunbridgeWells
Army Sallies Forth WORDS HAYLEY CHELSOM
The Salvationists regularly held religious services and paraded through the town with their brass band. On one such occasion in February 1886 the Skeletons’ abhorrence of the Army reached its peak on Camden Road, when they staged an open revolt and attacked the marchers. Members and supporters alike William Booth were injured and their instruments destroyed. Police eventually broke up the riot and arrested several members of the Skeleton Army, only to find that they had much support in Tunbridge Wells, particularly from those who had alcoholhe Salvation Army began in East London related businesses, such as pubs and breweries. in 1865, when William and Catherine Booth Many local tradesmen were eager to blame the decided to create a movement that would Salvationists for the disorder and anarchy and believed that deliver both physical and religious aid to the they should not be allowed to parade around the town. poor, hungry and needy. Even local authorities apparently had reservations However, not everyone was overjoyed. An opposition about the Salvationists and consequently, the men group called The Skeleton Army came into being to who had been arrested for their involvement with the oppose the Salvationists. The group had around 4,000 disturbance were released without charge. members and was upset by the Salvationists’ dislike of During these years of unrest the Salvation Army alcohol and desire to see it banned. refused to react to the widespread intimidation The Skeletons used every dirty trick in the book in it faced and continued to aid those in need, while attempts to disrupt gatherings, throwing eggs, blue peacefully spreading its religious message throughout paint, rocks and even rats. Between the years 1878 and Tunbridge Wells. 1891 Skeleton riots were rife up and down the country At the end of 1886, the townsfolk eventually began to and, in particular, throughout Kent and East Sussex. accept the Salvationists and many even contributed to a Indeed Tunbridge Wells had its very own new Citadel in Varney Street. Today neither the road nor branch of the Skeleton Army that made Citadel exists, having been swallowed up by the Royal repeated efforts to break up processions and Victoria Place complex. meetings. Its aim was to drive the Salvationists Moreover, when founder General William Booth visited out of town. Tunbridge Wells in 1910 he received a warm welcome and was admired for his dignified perseverance. The present Salvation Army Citadel, based on Bayhall Road, is still going strong, providing help and support to the community. Clearly the courage and persistence of those Salvationists in the early years laid the foundations for the admiration and respect that that the movement today attracts around the world. SO
RIOTS, VIOLENCE, VANDALISM… WORDS NOT USUALLY ASSOCIATED WITH THE SALVATION ARMY. BUT THESE WERE SOME OF THE THINGS MEMBERS FACED WHEN THEY FIRST SET OUT THEIR STALL IN TUNBRIDGE WELLS
T
122
JANUARY 2010
Warners Solicitors, ‘discretion assured whatever the secret’ www.warners-solicitors.co.uk
WALNUT FLOORING PROMOTION
189mm x 21mm Pre-Oiled Engineered - £45.95m2
E
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
SOT W
so
THE BILLIONAIRE MEET KENT’S RICHEST MAN
WIN
A YEAR OF HAIR & BEAUTY MAKE OVERS
Tunbridge Wells £10MILLION COUNTRY HOUSE EXCLUSIVE
HA PPY NEW YEA R
23
PAGES OF FABULOUS FASHION PLUS: FISHING FOR AWARDS SANKEY’S NETS THE BIG ONE ROLLS ROYCE NEW KING OF THE COUPES CONFIDENTIAL RUMOURS FROM AROUND THE TOWN
ISS UE 22
JANUARY 2010 £1.50 WWW.SOTUNBRIDGEWELLS.CO.UK
Johnny Depp
HOLLYWOOD’S HIGHEST PAID ACTOR IS IN WONDERLAND