TUNBRIDGE WELLS
edition
stayingin NOVEMBER 2010
free NOW13,000
r to ove es & hom es in ss busine e Wells & g d i s r Tunb nding area u k o o.u surr aygo.c t www.s
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elcome to Staying In & Going Out magazine – your fab monthly local guide! In this issue, we’re featuring:
STAYING IN
A simply delicious recipe for
traditional American pumpkin pie
Keep fit for girls: our fitness expert
recommends an easy routine to get in shape for Christmas Review of a must-have audio gadget, if you’re NOT on a budget!
GOING OUT
Ultimate Christmas party venues:
our pick of the best What’s on at the theatre in Tunbridge Wells and surroundings Shopping advice: kids’ shoes and what to look for
OUR GREAT COMPETITIONS! Turn to page 8 for our regular fun features. There’s a tricky crossword to get your brain buzzing and test a bit of local knowledge. The first crossword out of the bag after the closing date wins a gift voucher – so go on, have a go! Plus, find out what our curmudgeonly characters are up to this month in our ‘Tunbridge and Wells are Disgusted’ cartoon strip.
NEW KIDS’ PAGE! Brand-new to this issue is an activity-packed page for the younger members of the family. Turn to page 7 and get them busy with our puzzles – and if they enter our kids’ sudoku competition, they get a chance to win a Toys R Us voucher, too! So go for it! And we hope you enjoy the issue...
12 Union Square Eridge Road The Pantiles Tunbridge Wells TN4 8HE Tel 01892 617462
Lisa Miles editor
Brighton Tel 01273 841228 Reigate Tel 01737 226450
Have your say... If you have anything you’d like to share with our readers, please let us know. For great Staying In ideas read on from here. For Going Out, just flip over and read from the other side!
Contact Lisa: editor@staygo.co.uk
delicious recipe
cartoon books and gadgets crossword puzzle page for the kids!
Y SPORTS BAR Taste of Kent menu
e atabl Unbes! home priceked food y onl coo oast
£4.95 Y SPORTS BAR ay r Sund
BRENCHLEY SPORTS BAR
PORK & BEALE’S
6oz Loin of Pork served with Beale’s Apple Juice Sauce & Plaxtol Shards | £5.50
STEAK & SCOTNEY
Beef marinated & braised in Scotney Farm bitter served with Horseradish Dumplings| £5.00
LAMB & BIDDENDEN
BRENCHLEY SPORTS BAR
PORK & KENT HOP SAUSAGES
Brenchley made Sausages served with a Caramelised Onion & Red Wine Gravy | £4.00
Located between Brenchley & Matfield on the Brenchley road TN12 7NX • 01892 723303
Y SPORTS BAR
B SK A Y R S S W A W N PO E A AC R LC R K T O M S S, M & E
Y SPORTS BAR
6oz Rump of Lamb pan fried & served in a Biddenden Red Wine & Wild Thyme Jus & Plaxtol Shards| £6.00
BRENCHLEY SPORTS BAR
Monday - Thursday 11:30am - 2pm & 4:30pm - 10pm Friday - Saturday 11:30am - 2:30pm & 4:30pm - 10pm Closed Sunday
Y SPORTS BAR 0 from £2.4
, excellent for that children’s birthday party, afternoon supper or just bring some friends and enjoy our freshly cooked meals.
BRENCHLEY SPORTS BAR
We accept telephone orders, ideal for when you’re in a hurry.
High Street Pembury Kent • OCEAN a Traditional Fish & Chips Bar
&
E
M
A FEW OF OUR...
favourite things
AMERICAN-STYLE
Pumpkin Pie Thanksgiving Day in the States is coming up on 25th November. So if you fancy joining in with our cousins across the pond, try this traditional recipe. It’s amazing!
FOR THE CRUST: 200g flour 50g tablespoons golden (light) brown sugar
50g finely chopped pecans 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon salt 110g chilled butter, cut into small pieces
2 tablespoons iced water NOW DO THIS... 1. Mix flour, sugar, pecans, cinnamon and salt till well mixed.
2. Add butter and mix on low to medium speed till texture is coarse. (Use a food processor but you can also use a hand blender if that is what you’ve got.) 3. Add ice water a little at a time until the dough binds together. Gather into a ball. Roll out onto a surface and line a pie dish. Put into fridge for about an hour.
TUNBRIDGE WELLS edition
4. Prong the bottom with a fork all over. Then bake crust for 15 minutes (on its own), till the crust is slightly coloured at 200ºC. Poke down any crust that has puffed up. The point is to get the crust a bit cooked before the wet filling goes in and hopefully you end up with a non-soggy bottomed pie. Let the crust cool before adding the filling.
FOR THE FILLING: 180g sugar – same stuff as for the crust
20g of flour 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ginger 1/4 teaspoon allspice 375g of pumpkin 3 eggs 75g of whipping cream or you can also use double cream
AND THIS... 1. Whisk first six ingredients together, then whisk in the pumpkin and the eggs and then the cream. 2. When it is all nicely mixed, pour into the crust. 3. Bake for about 50 minutes at 180ºC. You can tell that it is done when the sides are puffed up and the centre is just set. It shouldn’t crack but don’t worry if it does. It will still taste the same!
... AND SERVE! Serve with whipped cream. For extra joy add a nip of brandy and some sugar to the cream before you whip it. Happy eating... and thanks to our American friend Abigail Hicks for providing the delicious recipe!
essential stuff BOOKS: MERVYN STONE TRILOGY By Nev Fountain Big Finish RRP: £8.99 each Well-known TV comdey scriptwriter, Nev Fountain, has just launched his first novels. Throw in one Mervyn Stone, an amateur detective, along with some geeky sci-fi fans and a rework of an old TV show and you’re all set for an amusing series of grisly events! Once you’ve read one, you’ll want to read the whole series!
MUSIC: SONOS RRP: £799 For a music lover with a large budget, check out this amazing gadget. Sonos allows you wireless access to all your music in multiple rooms in your home. For a good starter kit, check out the Sonos Bundle BU250. If it’s opera in the bath or Take That in the kitchen, this is definitely the product for you! Stockists: Sevenoaks Sound & Vision, 28-30 St Johns Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 9NT www. sevenoaks soundand vision. co.uk
November 2010 / stayingin
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GIRLS! GET IN SHAPE JUST IN TIME... WITH KEEP-FIT EXPERT JUSTIN JONES B.A., NCES, CHEK HLC 2
Contact Justin at health@staygo.co.uk
C
an't squeeze into that Christmas party dress? Try these top tips for girls from our keep-fit expert, Justin Jones. These three exercises are a great way to tone up thighs, bums and tums. Do them circuit-style one after the other, with minimal rest (15-30 seconds) between exercises with a rest break of 1 minute at the end of a round.
REPETITIONS Perform as many repetitions (reps) with good technique of each exercise in the time given. Use a level of resistance that is challenging yet do-able.
HERE'S HOW TO START Do 30 seconds work, then rest for 30 seconds before the next exercise. Rest for one minute at the end of the round. Perform 2 rounds. After 2 weeks, work up gradually.
1
NUMBER
SQUAT PRESS Great for toning the legs and glutes. (A) Start with feet hipwidth apart, sit down on an imaginary chair to at least legs parallel to floor. (B) Rise up and press a weight, such as dumbells or a medicine ball, above your head.
EAT YOUR WAY TO GOOD HEALTH...
1. Squat Press, (A) and (B)
2
NUMBER
STATIC LUNGE This is a great leg blast for thighs. (A) Start with your front foot up on a step. (B) Drop your back knee as low as you can. Maintain upright posture, no leaning forward.
2. Static lunge, (A) and (B)
Consuming even small amounts of alcohol, such as a glass of wine for example, can reduce your ability to burn fat by up to 73%! So watch your alcohol intake if you're watching your weight.
NUMBER
TUNBRIDGE WELLS edition
Justin says, "Trying to get healthier by exercising but with a poor diet is like driving a petrol car using diesel! The result is you won't get far before you run into trouble. So follow this simple rule: If you want to lose weight over the next 14 days eat only things that 'run on land, swim in the sea, fly in the sky or grow in the ground'. The fewer processed foods you eat the better you will feel."
QUICK FACT...
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STANDING TWISTER This works the core for a flatter tummy and raises the heart rate. (A) Start with legs apart, facing the front. (B) Bend your knees and twist your body from side to side non-stop.
ABOUT JUSTIN... Justin is a personal trainer and nutrition coach, who consults with teams and individuals from all over the world who want to lose weight, feel better and perform at their peak.
3. Standing twister, (A) and (B)
November 2010 / stayingin
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Laura
Theo, Laura and Mum all need a new pair of winter boots. Stampede! is the only place to go. Who is going to get there first and win the prize?
Mum
Theo
Hard Luck!
Maybe Next Time!
Shoes for kids, mums and school
shoes for kids
shoes for mums
WINNER!
You can only be a winner shopping at Stampede! Bring this page to the shop and the first 50 entrants will receive 10% off* shoes, boots or trainers. *not in conjunction with any other offer. Valid until 30.11.2010
shoes for school
48 St. Johns Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, UK TN4 9NY • 01892 511651
PUZZLED
win!
KIDS?!
£10 TOYS R US VOUCHER
Fill in the missing symbols so that every row column and mini-grid has one of each of these six symbols: star, moon, cloud, rocket, hotdog, catherine wheel! Get an adult to help you cut out your answer and send it to the address below with your name, address and age. The first correct entry pulled out of the bag after the closing date wins a £10 Toys R Us voucher! StayGo Kids Stuff, Suite 5044, 26-28 Hammersmith Grove, London, W6 7BA. The first correct entry out of the bag wins! You must be 12 or under to enter. Closing date: 6th December 2010
JUST FOR FUN... Unscramble these words. Clue: they are all to do with autumn!
NAME:
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Shadow match
IT’S A JOKE... Q: Why is number ten scared of number seven? A: Because seven, eight, nine!
Only one of these shadows matches this autumn leaf exactly. Which one?
a.
VEALES MUKPINP CERKONS
b.
c.
NORASC TUNBRIDGE WELLS edition
November 2010 / stayingin
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1
PUZZLED?!
BY: DAVID HARRISON Closing date: 6th December - See website for answers after closing date. ACROSS
DOWN
1. Billy is a bit of a devil. (4) 3. He’s part one across, on the roof, in Tunbridge Wells. (8) 9. & 19. Tenth Roman actor helped plan Tunbridge Wells. (7,6) 10.Mad Nigel never lost his marbles. (5) 11. Come into my tent Ernestine! (5) 12.Lordly stoat. (6) 14.Bag or coat? (6) 16.Sounds like a bloke blowing off steam. (6) 19. See 9 Across 21. & 4 Down. He lies in Woodbury Park, his sister (though unmarried) is often taken off the shelf. (5,6) 24. Old Irishman lives abroad. (5) 25. Japanese warrior. (7) 26. A bit rocky. (8) 27. See 23 Down
1. Lucky gifts from on high. (8) 2. Coats re-tailored in place known for hats. (5) 4. See 21 Across 5. In mother measure of warmth is found. (5) 6. Stories, or feet? (7) 7. Going cheap? Or cheep? (4) 8. Not decent, but not indecent either. (6) 13. Freshwater gangster? (8) 15. Gaffe (4,3) 17. Take something from the earth. (6) 18.Not second hand. (6) 20. A right name. (5) 22. An opera by Bellini (5) 23. & 27. Tunbridge Wells Master of Ceremonies, when confused, was almost unabashed. (4,4)
win!
£10 M&S VOUCHER
Complete our tricky Tunbridge Wells crossword, cut it out and send it in to: StayGo Competition, Suite 504A, 26-28 Hammersmith Grove, London, W6 7BA The first correct entry out of the bag wins!
A QUICK JOKE... Man walks into a pub with a Newt under his arm. Man says: A pint for me please & a lemonade for Tiny. Barman says: Why is he called Tiny? Man says: Because he’s ‘My Newt’!
TUNBRIDGE & WELLS ARE DISGUSTED! I’m disgusted! I might even write to StayGo, Tunbridge.
I agree Wells. Christmas parties – totally out of hand. Over indulgence!
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THE STAYGO TEASERS... Which British-born actor and director died of natural causes on Christmas Day 1977 in Switzerland. Considered to be one of the most influential talents in film history, he was married four times and was the father of 11 children and knighted in 1975? More online, and please see www.staygo.co.uk for the Answers
quoteunquote “Let’s be naughty and save Santa the trip.” Gary Allan “If you’re in a war, instead of throwing a hand grenade at the enemy, throw one of those small pumpkins. Maybe it’ll make everyone think how stupid war is, and while they are thinking, you can throw a real grenade at them.” Jack Handey
“You know you are getting old when the candles cost more than the cake.” Bob Hope
Join in the exploits of our curmudgeonly residents to find out what they’re ‘disgusted’ about this month!
BY MARK SMITH
Nothing wrong with just a sherry and a mince pie, I say.
And a bit of tinsel. No need for anything else!
Nice tutu, Tunbridge. Fancy another Moscow Mule?
Let’s get on it! Wells.
EATING OUT
FOOD & DRINK
THE BEACON
ARRAY OF CAKES
Pub and restaurant with stunning views in a quiet backwater of Tunbridge Wells address: Tea Garden Lane, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 9JH telephone: 01892 524 252 website: www.the-beacon.co.uk
Scrumptious cupcakes and cookies delivered to your door. Order online or by phone telephone: 07768 098072 website: www.arrayofcakes.co.uk
BLACK HORSE
24-seater restaurant, ideal for kids’ parties, family get-togethers or just a great take-away address: 8 High Street, Pembury, Kent TN2 4NY telephone: 01892 823 561
Cosy, traditional pub with range of beers, extensive menu and pretty garden address: 12 High Street, Pembury, Kent, TN2 4NY. telephone: Pub 01892 822 141 Restaurant 01892 824 033 website: www. blackhorsepembury.co.uk
OCEAN FISH & CHIPS
STAMPEDE
Music lounge with Mediterranean style menu for lunch and dinner address: 70-72 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5TW telephone: 01892 544 700 website: www.thegreylady.co.uk
Specialist children’s shoe shop, stocking a wide range of modern styles address: 48 St Johns Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 9NY telephone: 01892 511 651
Sky Sports, bar snacks and a warm welcome with a local Kent menu address: Brenchley Road, TN12 7NX telephone: 01892 723 303 website: www.brenchleybar.com
ROBIN HOOD Traditional pub with a warm welcome, offering great Sunday lunch carvery address: Sandhurst Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 3TD telephone: 01892 516 153 website: www.robinhood-tunbridgewells. co.uk
SMITH & WESTERN Wild West themed bar, diner and grill, serving American favourites for all the family address: Linden Park Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5QL telephone: 01892 550 750 website: www.smith-western.co.uk
THORINS WINE BAR & BRASSERIE Restaurant and bar, with a ‘secret garden’ situated between the Village and the Pantiles address: 9 Nevill Street, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5RU telephone: 01892 531 480 website: www.thorins.co.uk
ARTS & THEATRE ARTIQUE GALLERY Contemporary art and artefacts to adorn your home address: 43 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1XL telephone: 01892 520 571 website: www.artiquegalleries.com
“
What an amazing Reflexology treatment from Victoria Conway. I had trouble sleeping but now I’m sleeping well and feel refreshed and energised. I can’t wait for my next relaxing appointment…
”
MS.L.HARRISON
MEMBER OF THE ASSOCIATION OF REFLEXOLOGISTS
*
30% off 1st booking based on a run of 3, normal price £30 p/h
ASSEMBLY HALL Theatre and entertainment, including traditional panto, for all the family address: Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2LU telephone: 01892 530 613 website: www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
OAST THEATRE
Theatre set in an atmospheric 19th century converted oast house address: London Road, Tonbridge, Kent, TN10 3AN telephone: 01732 363849 website: www.oast-theatre-tonbridge.co.uk
TRINITY THEATRE
Theatre and arts centre with a wide range of events and great café address: Church Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1JP telephone: 01892 678 678 website: www.trinitytheatre.net
© 2010 The Exclusive Edge Ltd. All rights reserved. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views 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 prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means, electronic, mechanical, phtocopying or otherwise without the prior permission of the publisher. PHOTO CREDITS: STAYING IN – p1: Chris Braham. GOING OUT – p7: left Wikipedia p7: right Shutterstock. Paper from sustainable sources, chlorine free and environmentally friendly. TUNBRIDGE WELLS edition
reflexology indian head massage reiki
KIDS’ FASHION
THE GREY LADY
BRENCHLEY SPORTS BAR
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tu, ge. ther ule?
directory
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te
www.staygo.co.uk
victoriaconway@hotmail.co.uk
07940 533103
contact us
to list your company… reaching over 13,000 homes in Tunbridge Wells!
sales@staygo.co.uk or call 01892 509 273
November 2010 / stayingin
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www.staygo.co.uk
see you on the flipside Wooosh! That is the sound you flipping over. If it wasn’t a digital version, of course.
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
edition
goingout
FREE
NOVEMBER 2010
Q&A
Shaun
Williamson
W
ell-known local TV actor Shaun Williamson is starring in Cinderella at the Assembly Hall, starting on 11th December. Our very own Zac Thraves spoke to Shaun.
ZAC: Have you ever Googled yourself? SHAUN: I have only just learnt how to use the internet!! I did Google myself once but the information was so inaccurate I haven’t done it since.
ZAC: With Scoop seeing you venture into television
We have a team of expertly Winte r Che qualified Ask ck in st technicians deta ore for ils trained for Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Ford, Jaguar, Mercedes, Rover, Suzuki, Vauxhall, Volkswagen, Volvo
for children, are you always looking to widen your scope towards a new audience?
SHAUN: Definitely. EastEnders covered the whole country. Extras was cool for students and Scoop covers the children’s audience.
Less than a minute’s walk from High Brooms railway station. Drop off your car and we’ll do it while you’re at work.
ZAC: Theatre or television?
7 days a week MOT service
SHAUN: TV for fame and theatre to do something really good and to be in touch with a live audience. There’s nothing to beat it.
Servicing from £99 + VAT
AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIANS
ZAC: Singing appears to be your passion, is it one you have always had?
REPAIRS & BODY WORK
SHAUN: Yeah. Singing was a first step on the entertainment ladder.
SERVICING & MOT
ZAC: Did singing give you your first big break?
AIR CONDITIONING
SHAUN: Yes, as a Pontins Bluecoat. ZAC: Buttons is ‘the’ part in Cinderella and you’ve also played Dandini. Any plans to re-mix the story and play Cinders? SHAUN: I might consider it if the money's right! ZAC: Earlier in the year you toured Porridge, a stage version of the classic TV series. Were you allowed to put your own spin on the character?
www.auto-bavaria.com 01892 522 242 1 North Farm Road Tunbridge Wells TN2 3DH
£10
Continued on page 5...
k .u .cook w go lo e no ay newbsit e! st we liv
CALLING ALL ADVERTISERS! WHY NOT GIVE OUR MAGAZINE /advertise A TRY... www.staygo.co.uk 01892 509 273
going out
eating out
theatre events
art galleries
OFF MOT’S with this voucher Valid from 1st Nov 2010 - 1st Nov 2011 No photocopies accepted StayGo | AutoBavaria | 11/10
great party venues
1 2 H I G H S T R E E T, P E M B U R Y
PRE-CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU from £18 MENU A
Traditional Prawn Cocktail Thai Spiced Fish Cakes Woodland Parcel - V Crispy Fried Brie - V Farmhouse Pate Traditional Roast Turkey Peppered Steak Slow Roasted Fillet Of Lamb Cod Fillet Winter Salmon Salad Tom, Dick 'N’ Harry Banoffee Pie Spiced Winter Pancake Trio Of Sorbets Traditional Christmas Pudding Coffee And Chocolates
VEGETARIAN MAIN COURSE
Roasted Vegetable Pastry To complete your meal please choose a starter and dessert from either Menu A or B
V - SUITABLE FOR VEGETARIANS N - CONTAINS NUTS
MENU B
Leek And Potato Soup - V Melon And Parma Ham Traditional Roast Turkey Traditional Christmas Pudding Vanilla Ice Cream Coffee And Chocolates
TN2 4NY PEMBURY, KENT 12 HIGH STREET, (01892) 824033 NT RA AU ST 1 / RE PUB (01892) 82214 ry.co.uk
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pem www.blackhorse
Visit our website or pop in and see us for further details and the full Pre-Christmas menu
www.blackhorsepembury.co.uk
TREADING THE BOARDS WITH...
Zac Thraves whet your appetite, or to kickstart the plan of getting away from the in-laws!
MR TOAD AT TRINITY
C
hristmas: turkey; presents; church; family; and naturally, pantomime. It may be November, but you’ve all been reminded of the coming festivities since August by most of the town centre shops. Here follows a little sample of forthcoming events to
The Trinity together with Tunbridge Wells Theatre Company are this year giving us another fresh show for those dreading the ‘boo and hiss’ of pantomimes. This year, The Adventures of Mr Toad will tell the story of The Wind in the Willows in a fun-filled and delightful musical version. Promising fun for all the family, performances start on 11th December and run through to 31st December, with some early performances available to schools only. Contact the Trinity Theatre Box Office on 01892 678 678. For those of you who want your entertainment slightly edgier, then the Trinity will also be showcasing their popular Comedy Café throughout December. Acts such as Dave Fulton and John Gordillo will be giving us intelligent and wry comedy that will offer a tonic to the Christmas stress. The Comedy Café opens its doors on 8-9th and 14-16th December.
BEHIND YOU! The Assembly Hall Theatre will be giving us another starstudded extravaganza in the form of Cinderella Cinderella. Shaun Williamson, who played popular ‘Eastender’ Barry Evans, is playing Buttons next to Emma Nowell as Cinders. TUNBRIDGE WELLS edition
Dave Fulton, appearing at the Comedy Café
Emma will be familiar with younger viewers who watch CITV’s Hi-5. This is usually a very lavish affair with plenty of opportunity for audience participation and the return of the Shetland ponies. Buckets at the ready! The ball starts on 11th December and runs throughout the month until 2nd January 2011. All Assembly Hall tickets can be bought on-line or by calling 01892 530 613.
A STAG DO... This year, The Stag in Sevenoaks has its own pantomime. Jack and the Beanstalk stars Graham Cole from The Bill and Tony Haygarth from Emmerdale. The Stag has also been running its very own ‘Panto-Factor’! Two winners of the talent competition will be featuring in this year's panto production. Contact The Stag on 01732 450 175.
AT THE OAST Those of you who prefer your theatre to be more serious, you might need to look hard to find things at this time of the year. However, The Oast Theatre in Tonbridge is performing Mrs Klein by Nicholas Wright from the 13th to 20th November. This play, about the controversial psychoanalyst, is a haunting study of the motherdaughter relationship. All Oast Theatre tickets are through the box office only on 01732 350 261. November 2010 / going out
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Art for art's sake...
BY... ZAC THRAVES
Shaun Williamson... continued from cover
SHAUN: There’s only one Ronnie Barker. He’s irreplaceable. So I did a physical impression, used my own voice and trusted the script. ZAC: Are you tired of hearing ‘Barry from Eastenders’ or do you feel it gives you opportunities that you might not have had? SHAUN: It’s better to be known than unknown! ZAC: What is the best thing about living in Kent? SHAUN: I love the countryside. The fact it’s near to London without being too near. I love Canterbury, Tunbridge Wells and a hundred other places. I was born in Kent and would be happy to die here although not just yet!
ZAC: How well do you think that theatre and the arts are represented in Kent?
SHAUN: Quite well. It can always be better, of course. ZAC: You have worked with many big names in theatre, TV and film, are there any with whom you have been genuinely star struck? SHAUN: Not really. If you’re going to be working with anyone well known, look up their interests and break the ice with something they are really going to want to talk about. ZAC: And finally, what is your earliest acting memory?
SHAUN: As a shepherd in a school play. A career high point! TUNBRIDGE WELLS edition
ABOUT ZAC GALLERY SPOT Of course, the arts isn't all about theatre! Plenty of other arts events are taking place over the next few weeks.
ZAC SAYS... "I urge you to visit the Artique Gallery in the High Street, Tunbridge Wells. On 24th November from 6pm it will be presenting the work of Fabian Perez, an Argentinian artist and writer, who has also spent much of his life in Italy. The artist will be there in person to field any questions. His stunning artwork explodes with latin energy and brings back the heady emotion of the sultry days of summer." Artique offer a variety of different works from some excellent artists and have a number of galleries nationwide. Find them locally at 43, High Street, Tunbridge Wells. Check their information at www.artiquegalleries.com or phone 01892 520 571
Zac Thraves has worked in theatre, television and film for the last twenty years. He writes stage plays and has met with success in two major competitions. Two of his plays have been performed at The Oast Theatre in Tonbridge. He has most recently performed in a production of The Three Musketeers, also at the Oast, directed by Pamela Murphy. Zac played one of the musketeers in a tongue-in-cheek version of this wellloved swashbuckling adventure.
GET IN TOUCH... When he's not performing, Zac keeps busy attending arts events, so if you have an event coming up and would like a mention in the magazine, contact Zac on arts@ staygo.co.uk
November 2010 / going out
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Remembrance Day OUR TOWN'S WAR MEMORIALS
by Lisa Miles Victoria
O
n the 11th November at 11am, we pause for a moment to remember those who die in conflict, and this is followed on Remembrance Sunday by memorial services across the country. At this time of year, poppy wreathes are laid at war memorials, but do you ever stop to look at the memorials themselves?
MEMORIAL TO THE FALLEN Buses and shoppers pass by continually outside the Tunbridge Wells Museum and Art Gallery, but how many people look up at the statue of the dignified
Air Marshal Hugh Dowding
soldier on the bank above them? This impressive bronze was created by sculptor Stanley Nicholson Babb, a well-known sculptor of the time, who taught at the Wimbledon School of Art. It was unveiled by local clergy and dignitaries on the 11th of February, 1923, and a plaque beneath the soldier carries the names of 801 men who lost their lives in the First World War. A further 171 names were added from the Second World War. Every year, the Remembrance Day parade culmiates in a ceremony at the memorial. This year, it takes place on Sunday 14th November, at 11am.
BATTLE OF BRITAIN COMMANDER At the Mount Pleasant entrance to Calverley Park, a memorial stone fitted with an inscription commemorates the life of Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding, a TUNBRIDGE WELLS edition
Scotsman Cross medal who made his home in Tunbridge Wells and died here in 1970. During the First World War, he commanded a squadron in the Royal Flying Corps – the forerunner of the RAF. He later became Air Chief Marshal and it was he who pushed for the development of the Spitfire and Hurricane planes that became vital during the Second World War. He commanded RAF Fighter Command during the Battle of Britain and although he lost his post in 1940, he is credited as the mastermind behind the victory that saved Britain from invasion.
VICTORIA CROSS GROVE Step into Dunorlan Park from the entrance on Bayhall Road and you will see to your right a grove of young trees. This is Victoria Cross Grove, which commemorates 10 men of Tunbridge Wells who were awarded the highest military honour this country can give – the Victoria Cross. Inaugurated in 2006 to mark the 400th anniversary of the town and the 150th anniversary of the medal, this is a quiet place for contemplation. A sculpture by Charles Gurrey, inscribed with a extracts from the specially commissioned poem Remembrance by Andrew Motion, marks the spot. November 2010 / going out
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ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS PARTY VENUES! SOME OF OUR TOWN’S GREAT PUBS TELL US ABOUT THEIR PLANS TO PARTY!
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t's that time of year when friends and workmates everywhere are organising events and sending round email questionnaires about what people want to do for the traditional Christmas festivities. Well, there's a lot of choice out there, so here are a few ideas to help you make your minds up! NUMBER
The 1 Beacon
Often thought of as a summer venue because of its wonderful grounds and amazing views, The Beacon, tucked away down Tea Garden Lane, has a great deal to offer over the winter months as well. Inside, it feels like a rambling country house and you can almost imagine yourself as part of a weekend house party. It has two comfortable bar areas with easy chairs and sofas, and is exactly the kind of place that you can relax in front of the fire and read the Sunday papers before lunch.
others, is that it has private rooms available for dinner, after which diners can move to a separate room for dancing. Private dining rooms can be made available for up to 40 guests. Alternatively the large function room downstairs can accommodate 100 people for both dinner and dancing. And because there are two bars at the Beacon, you can be assured of being served easily in a relaxed manner, which undoubtedly contributes to the welcoming atmosphere. For the Christmas season, lunch is served Monday to Saturday at £19.75 per person, dinner on Monday to Thursday evenings at £28 per person and Friday and Saturday evenings at £33 per person, including a disco. Discos can be arranged during weekday evenings for large parties at an additional cost of £5 per person.
ON THE MENU Food at The Beacon is a real feast. Alongside the traditional roast turkey with chestnut stuffing and plum
The Beacon has a fine collection of retro radios
pudding with brandy sauce, you'll find such delights as slow roasted English sirloin, butternut squash purée and a spiced Maderia jus, followed by the chef's selection of cheeses with homemade pickles and crackers. And if you fancy eating out on the big day, the Christmas Day menu is available at £69.50 per person. A New Year's Eve fork buffet, desserts and disco costs from just £32.50 per person. Accommodation is also available at The Beacon, in comfortable guest bedrooms, so that you can take the worry out of getting home. Christmas party menus are available to download from the website and booking is hotting up – so don't miss out! The Beacon, Tea Garden Lane, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 9JH www.the-beacon.co.uk 01892 524 252
DINNER, THEN DANCE What makes The Beacon an ideal Christmas party venue, and somewhat different from most
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Robin Smith & Hood Western
FRIENDLY WELCOME
CHRISTMAS HOE-DOWN!
The Robin Hood in Sandhurst Road is more than just a pub – it stands at the heart of the community. Its large function room is put to excellent use on a regular basis for all sorts of events, ranging from tai chi classes to poker evenings. It can hold up to 120 people for private functions and is therefore an ideal place to hire for a packed-out Christmas party. And if you want great food and exciting live music, that can easily be arranged… just as you like it! The Robin Hood, Sandhurst Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 3TD 01892 516 153
Start off Christmas with a bang at Smith & Western! There’s plenty of space for large parties, whether it be an office get-together or a meal with family and friends. Christmas dinner is definitely Wild West style, with hearty dishes such as rack of ribs with home fries and cranberry coleslaw, followed by the wonderfully sticky Granny’s toffee apple waffle. You’ll even get a free sparkly cowboy hat included with a 3-course Christmas menu. So what are you waiting for? Get those wagons rolling… Smith & Western, Linden Park Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5QL 01892 550 750
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OPEN LOG FIRE Take a look inside this traditional pub and you’ll be surprised! It looks small from the outside but in actual fact it’s very roomy, with an open log fire and a lovely conservatory restaurant. Check out the choice of pre-Christmas party menus – can you resist the spiced winter pancake? The Black Horse, 12 High Street, Pembury, Kent, TN2 4NY 01892 822 141 TUNBRIDGE WELLS edition
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The Black Horse
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Thorins
PARTY ON DOWNSTAIRS!
For a romantic Christmas meal, why not book a table at Thorins? The cosy atmosphere will bring an extra-special sparkle to your evening out. And don’t forget Downstairs at Thorins! This great party venue can be hired out for your private functions, with food and music supplied to your own requirements. Thorins, 9 Nevill Street, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5RU 01892 531 480
cosy winters at…
the
beacon
Christmas Day Our Christmas Day Menu is now available - £69.50 per person. Book early to avoid disappointment.
New Year’s Eve Join us to see in the New Year – Fork buffet, desserts & disco: £37.50 per person in the upstairs restaurant or £32.50 in The Verandah room TICKET ENTRY ONLY
Tea Garden Lane, Tunbridge Wells
01892 524252 www.the-beacon.co.uk
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Winter Boot Collection 2010 t e e f e l t t i l for s e c a l p g n i go hurry, whilst stocks last Prices start at £55
Shoes for kids, mums and school
shoes for kids
shoes for school shoes for mums 48 St. Johns Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 9NY
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01892 511651
ASK THE EXPERT!
the right fit
A GUIDE TO SHOE SHOPPING WITH KIDS
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cuffed uppers and worn down soles – again? Then the kids must need new shoes! Staying In & Going Out magazine spoke to local expert Andrea Afrifa, owner of Stampede children’s shoe shop in St Johns Road, about how to find the right fit and style for growing feet – and have a happy shopping experience.
What is the difference between Clark’s and Start-rite fittings? Clark’s shoes generally measure half a size bigger and sometimes wider than a Start-rite shoe.
Andrea Afrifa of Stampede
SHOE FITTING AT STAMPEDE The growing team of staff at Stampede are trained by kids heavyweight school-shoe brand, Start-rite. ALL staff are also certificated in the art of shoefitting but Andrea has taken it one step further by qualifying as a Master of the Society of Shoe Fitters, and equipping herself and colleagues with in-depth specialist knowledge of shoe-fitting. Post Start-rite training, staff are as qualified as any high street competitor ‘shoe-fitter’, however, Andrea ensures all new recruits undergo a month-long training schedule in-store before being unleashed on the general public. She not only believes that shoe fitting is key but insists on staff having an understanding of shoe manufacture, foot anatomy and of course the thing she really prides herself on – excellent customer service and how to work with little people creating a professional yet FUN environment. TUNBRIDGE WELLS edition
ANDREA’S FAQS How often should I check the fit of my child’s shoes? Generally every 8-12 weeks. Children’s feet grow erratically in fits and starts and could grow by ½ size in this period. Children aged four and upwards should have shoes checked every 10-12 weeks (and at least every 4 months). Stampede staff are all trained shoe fitters and will not recommend a new pair unless required. Please don’t hesitate to drop in and ask us simply to check for you. The measuring gauge showed my child as being a size 7F although he has been fitted with a different size? A fitting gauge is only a guide for a qualified Stampede fitter to use and is made specifically to fit Start-rite shoes – this may mean variations in sizes with our other brands.
When should my child start wearing his first pair of shoes? When he can walk most of the day unaided and you want to go outside. This can be from any time between 7 months and 2 years. A first shoe is to protect feet and should be designed around the shape of the feet (slim at heel and wide at the forepart). It should respond to the demands of your little one’s foot i.e. weight bearing, balance and movement. They should be firm yet snug at the heel and flexible at the front. How can we as parents help look after our child’s feet? Make sure socks are good quality cotton and are not too small or misshapen. Check toe seams for a ‘casting-off ’ knot which can irritate toes. Socks which are too small will restrict growth – throw them out! Do not hand down shoes. They take the shape of the previous wearer and will not support in vital areas. Keep feet clean. Dry between toes and cut nails straight across and gently file any corners. Thanks Andrea for the advice!
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REMEMBER, REMEMBER... Yes, it's the 5th of November and bonfire season in the Sussex villages is well underway. Check out our very own RTW Round Table display at Dunorlan Park!
3 courses for £22.95! www.smith-western.co.uk
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FRIDAY
NOVEMBER 2010
WAGONS WILL ROLL THIS CHRISTMAS
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FIREWORKS!
BONFIRE NIGHT
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Happy 59th Birthday Lou Ferrigno!
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The second Thursday of every month at Thorins www.thorins.co.uk
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TRADITIONAL FRENCH CREPE AND BELGIAN WAFFLE DAY!
REMEMBRANCE DAY
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RIBS NIGHT
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efoods ol kes
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Dunorlan Park, Tunbridge Wells 6th November www.kent.gov.uk
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Saturday 13th November at Basil 01892 526422
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BEAUJOLAIS NOUVEAU BREAKFAST
at the Black Horse, Thurs 18th Nov www.blackhorsepembury.co.uk
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Happy 43 Birthday Boris Becker! rd
ADVERTISE HERE!
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The last Thursday of every month at Thorins www.thorins.co.uk
rtise ygo.co.uk/adve visit www.sta ll 01892 509 273 or ca
SANTA'S GROTTO OPENS!
at Ashdown Forest Llama Park www.llamapark.co.uk
Call into CK media for all your print & design needs 01892 523 186
www.ckmedia.uk.com
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IT’S CHRRRRRISTMAS! The Christmas lights are well and truly on! Shop, eat, drink, dance and be merry...
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at Assembly Hall Theatre www.localandlive.org
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CINDERELLA!
Trinity's cracking Comedy Cafés this December www.trinitytheatre.net
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SUNDAY
LOCAL & LIVE WINTER CONCERT
CHRISTMAS COMEDY CAFE!
Happy 52nd Birthday Nick Park!
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Panto begins at Assembly Hall Theatre www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
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CHRISTMAS EVE
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
BOXING DAY
ANY XL PIZZA Only £10.99 www.papajohns.co.uk
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WAGONS WILL ROLL THIS CHRISTMAS 3 courses for £22.95! www.smith-western.co.uk
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the
beacon
Happy 38th Birthday Jude Law!
CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR IN STYLE!
at The Beacon – fork buffet, desserts & disco www.the-beacon.co.uk
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Robin Hood Pub Sandhurst Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3TD www.robinhood-tunbridgewells.co.uk tel: 01892 516 153
Live music… We regularly have live entertainment at The Robin Hood. This ranges from 15 piece tribute bands to a simple disco and Karaoke. Keep an eye out on the website for that event that might be of interest to you.
SUNDAY CARVERY AVAILABLE
For regular updates on our live entertainment and events email us at gardn469@hotmail.com and we’ll put you on our mailing list.
Private functions…
and much more…
With its own bar and capable of holding up to 120 people, we can offer the function room at a reasonable price with or without food, with or without entertainment.
TAI CHI CLASSES
Ring, email or come and see for yourself! AVAILABLE FOR: Birthday Parties Engagements • Weddings Conferences • Anniversaries
GAMES WORKSHOP CLUB every Thursday night
POKER EVENINGS on Sunday nights
BINGO EVENINGS SENIOR CITIZENS' MENU
LOCAL & LIVE WINTER CONCERT
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Easy gifts for
Christmas
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SEE A SHOW! Surprise someone with a pair of tickets to a music event or a show – and maybe they'll take you! Check out local theatres on pages 2-3!
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OXFAM UNWRAPPED For someone who's got everything, give to the developing world on their behalf. Buy a goat for a family or fix a well. www.oxfam.org.uk/shop/oxfamunwrapped
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PLANT A TREE For all those ecowarriors out there, you can pay for a tree to be planted for them in the UK. www. internationaltreefoundation.org
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s the Christmas party season gets underway, and following on from the success of the August festival, Saturday December 4th marks the date for the first ever Local & Live Winter Concert at the Assembly Halls, featuring Tunbridge Wells groups The Charlie Rivers Band and The Paul Dunton Orchestra.
PAUL SAYS: "I am delighted and honoured to be sharing the bill with The Charlie Rivers Band for this inaugural Local & Live Winter concert. We are both very ‘fired up’ about performing at The Assembly Hall; it is not often that two local acts get the opportunity to play a 1,000 seater venue such as this. The Charlie Rivers Band have established themselves as one of the leading acts on the local scene and continue to go from strength to strength having just recently supported Newton Falkner at an exclusive gig aboard the HMS Belfast. PAUL AGAIN: "I will be performing with my entire crew which will mean 10 violins, 10 cellos, 2 flutes, guitar and piano alongside vocalist Fiona Keeler. The music is a fusion of atmospheric pop/alternative with a classical twist. My influences include composers such as Barber and Rachmaninov and modern-day songwriters such as Neil Young, Damien Rice and Burt Bacharach." Tickets are just £10 on the door or available in advance from the box office on 07872 334803 For info please visit: www.thecharlieriversband.com www.pauldunton.co.uk
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THE GIFT OF WELLBEING Some people need to be made to relax – so buy them treatment voucher and enhance their wellbeing! www.serenitytherapies.com
The Charlie Rivers Band & the Paul Dunton Orchestra
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OFFSET CARBON! An unusual choice, but why not pay for a loved one to have their carbon emissions offset, making them a carbon-neutral individual? How cool is that! www.carbonfootprint.com/ individuals.html
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www.staygo.co.uk
contact us... sales@staygo.co.uk or call 01892 509 273