insideKENT Issue 17 - Mar/Apr 2013

KENT inside www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk @insidekent

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Editor Donna Martin donna@sidewaysmedia.co.uk Publishing Director Adam Ready adam@sidewaysmedia.co.uk Editorial Assistant Gemma Dunn Design Manager Dave Leo Yogore Fashion Editor Molly Neznanski Gil Finance Manager Charlotte Ready Account Managers Greg Bettles Alex Perseval Paul Martin Contributors Luke Yates Ian McIntyre Charlie O’Brien Explore Kent Photography Luke Yates Publisher

Sideways Media Ltd The Oast Stone Green Farm Mersham Nr Ashford Kent TN25 7HE hello@sidewaysmedia.co.uk www.sidewaysmedia.co.uk @hellosideways

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For all advertising enquiries, contact Adam Ready on 07824 882086 or adam@sidewaysmedia.co.uk

When you have finished with this magazine, please pass it on to a friend or recycle it. © Copyright 2013. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Neither the publisher nor any other person associated with the production and publication of this magazine make any guarantees, warranties or claims as to the accuracy, currency or truthfulness of any of the contents of this magazine. No part of this magazine may be copied, reproduced or transmitted in any form without the publisher’s written consent. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited editorial, images or photographs published. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and the publisher takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. Publisher is not responsible for any variation in image colour due to printing processes.

Cover photo: © James Vaysey / Camera Press London

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NEWS

YOU SAY TOMATO… The humble tomato is something we take for granted. We see it in the shops all year round and don't really give it a second thought as to where it has come from and how it got here (even in the height of winter!).

BLONDIE AND PALOMA FAITH COMING TO BEDGEBURY PINETUM THIS SUMMER Blondie and Paloma Faith have confirmed very special tours of the nation’s woodlands this summer, performing their hits as part of the Forestry Commission’s annual concert series Forest Live.

achievements have been recognised by the music industry with Brit Award nominations. Her platinum selling album ‘Fall To Grace’ is up for Best Album, and she has also been nominated for Best British Female.

Blondie emerged from New York’s celebrated new wave scene producing innovative music with their rock/disco, reggae and hip-hop influenced songs. Fronted by pop icon Deborah Harry, their ground-breaking material brought them a stash of hit singles such as ‘Denis’, ‘(I’m Always Touched by Your) Presence Dear’, ‘Picture This’, ‘Dreaming’, ‘Union City Blue’ and ‘Rapture’.

Few acts can match their 20-year span of number ones from ‘Heart Of Glass’, ‘Sunday Girl’, ‘Atomic’, ‘Call Me’, ‘The Tide Is High’ to ‘Maria’.

Their singles’ success, complemented by 40 million+ album sales, has ensured worldwide superstar status for this pioneering band.

Forest Live is an independent programme organised by the Forestry Commission bringing music to new audiences without commercial branding or sponsorship. Income generated from ticket sales is spent on improving the local forests for both people and wildlife. With everything required for a great night out, including full catering and bar facilities, the gigs are renowned for their relaxed atmosphere.

Paloma Faith’s 2009 debut album, ‘Do You Want the Truth, or Something Beautiful?’, introduced Paloma Faith and a glossy ensemble of retroreferencing soul and sassy pop songs. From the brass-blasted stomp of ‘Stone Cold Sober’ to the quirky ‘Upside Down’, and the epic sweep of her biggest chart hit ‘New York’, the record went on to sell over half a million copies. Faith’s 2012 sophomore album, ‘Fall To Grace’, continues to build upon the success of her debut release. A collection of compositions in a new contemporary realm, chart success has already been assured with singles ‘Picking Up the Pieces’, ‘30 Minute Love Affair’, ‘Just Be’ and her enchanting cover of ‘Never Tear Us Apart’. Her

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Blondie with special guests The Lightning Seeds will be performing at Bedgebury Pinetum nr Tunbridge Wells on Saturday 22 June 2013.

Tickets £36.00 (subject to booking fee) www.forestry.gov.uk/music 03000 680400 www.blondie.net Paloma Faith plus special guests will be performing at Bedgebury Pinetum nr Tunbridge Wells on Friday 21 June 2013.

Tickets £32.00 (subject to booking fee) www.forestry.gov.uk/music 03000 680400 www.palomafaith.com

Thanet Earth is one of Kent's hidden secrets within the farming industry today. The massive site spanning 220 acres houses tomatoes of all varieties to supply UK retailers. Using modern growing methods and an eco-friendly ethos means that they can produce some exotic varieties as well as the good old-fashioned plumb, even in winter.

Being growers and not chefs, the company wanted to see what a local restaurant could do with their crop. Here is where Jason Freedman and Kevin Faux of The Minnis Restaurant of Birchington come in. This winter they hosted a specially designed seven-course meal, all based around the Thanet Earth tomato varieties. Around 75 guests from all parts of the community were invited to join in the feast, which started with a twist on the deconstructed bloody Mary, then stopping off to visit a variety of dishes including tarte tatin, Kentish pork loin, salt beef, and even a variation on a cooked breakfast.

Some were designed to play with your mind and taste buds, like the dessert. Using green and piccolo tomatoes, guests were presented with a tomato panna cotta. It certainly demonstrated the versatility of this fruit, and everyone who attended were impressed by both the flavours and the company itself and what they are doing locally in Kent.

Freedman and the team are now working on another night based around the Thanet Earth cucumber, so we will be fascinated to see what they come up with there. www.thanetearth.com www.theminnis.co.uk

NEWS

HIMALAYA 100KM PARAGLIDING CHALLENGE

CHARLIE’S CHAT Are you still writing 2012? Yep, me too. Don’t worry, we’ll have sussed it by the next issue.

Well, the start to the year was by no means quiet on Heart Breakfast with James and Charlie. We decided we weren’t going to moan about the winter blues but rather try and embrace the early, dark months by celebrating special days that do actually exist. Really. Like ‘Ask Your Cat a Question Day’ and ‘Appreciate a Dragon Day.’ Kent got on board with the silliness and hopefully we helped to lift the mood across the county!

The start of the year also saw a bit of a scoop for Heart Breakfast. A ‘source’ informed us that the name of Adele’s baby (a highly guarded secret) is Angelo; something we revealed with much excitement on the show, and only to be confirmed a fortnight later when Adele was spotted wearing an ‘Angelo’ necklace. You heard it first with us remember.

Looking ahead, as always there is so much to get excited about in the coming months. Firstly I will be taking part in Race for Life in Maidstone with 50 lovely Heart listeners to raise money for Cancer Research UK. Sign up for one of the events in Kent if you haven’t already.

I am also ridiculously excited that we are again this year teaming up with the Sound Island Festival at Quex Park on 28th July as Heart brings you Jessie J and Lawson with others to be announced. All the ticket details are at www.heart.co.uk.

Away from Heart I am very proud to tell you about a radio project I am involved with for young people in Kent living in care, or those who have recently left. My partner, presenter JK and I run a company called High School Radio. Through this we have linked up with Virtual School Kent to build a unique online ‘radio station’ for the young people, complete with their own podcast – about them and for them! It’s a massive achievement for everyone involved and I am really looking forward to meeting up with the young people again very soon for more exciting podcast ideas. Who knows where this may lead? It is amazing to be part of such a positive project that will hopefully grow and grow.

PS – Like the photo of me, James and Matt? Hopefully next issue I will be able to tell you what this is all about!

Listen to Heart Breakfast with James and Charlie every weekday morning from 6am-10am, or online at heart.co.uk You can also become a Facebook fan – facebook.com/heartkent Follow Charlie on twitter @charlie_radio To contact or for event bookings find her at www.charlieobrien.co.uk

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In October 2013, Kent-based David Maidman will be putting his paraglider on his back and travelling to the mighty Himalaya Mountains with a goal.

His challenge is to attempt to fly 100km non-stop, powered only by natural lifting air and thermals (rising bubbles of warm air). It has been suggested that it will take up to 4/5 hours to reach his goal.

However, there is always the possibility that the thermals could stop working and he would be heading down. The pilot must then seek a safe landing zone and prepare to hike to the nearest road or village. This is when the adventure truly begins…

It is hoped that the challenge will raise substantial funds for his two Kent charities: Kent Air Ambulance and Demelza House. It is also hoped that it will raise the awareness of windpower as a renewable resource, which can be harnessed and applied.

David is actively seeking corporate sponsorship within the local community.

All donations can be made securely and directly through his Just Giving website at www.justgiving.com/david-maidman

25 MILLION JOURNEYS IN THREE YEARS ON SOUTHEASTERN HIGH SPEED Southeastern has announced 25 million domestic passenger journeys have been made on High Speed 1 between London and Kent since the launch of the service. December 2012 marked three years since the introduction of the UK’s first domestic high speed service which has achieved some of the best records in punctuality and customer satisfaction in the country.

Charles Horton, managing director of Southeastern said, “The service has been an overwhelming success. In the three years since the launch we have extended the service to more destinations such Maidstone West, and to Sandwich and Deal with the support of Kent County Council, and we’ve boosted the number of services in the timetable to meet the increased demand.”

Horton continued, “The service has made the connection between Kent and London far more accessible than ever before and has slashed journey times. It’s also opened the county up to the rest of the UK; we’ve seen around 25 percent more journeys to Kent from beyond London than there were prior to the service.”

Southeastern runs train services into London from Kent and East Sussex, operating some 2000 trains a day, carrying more than 570,000 passengers a day, serving 179 stations and covering 540-miles of railway infrastructure. www.southeasternrailway.co.uk

NEWS

PRODUCED IN KENT APPOINT NEW MANAGER Local food and drink promoters, Produced in Kent, have announced the appointment of new manager, Edwyn Martin.

Edwyn will manage the long-standing team that has seen Produced in Kent grow from strength to strength since it was reestablished by Kent County Council in 2005.

Born and raised on a North Devon hill farm, home cooking and farm produce has always been an essential part of Edwyn's life. After a west country schooling, he graduated as a geographer and travelled widely as an exploration geologist and field scientist, landing his first job working for Sir Ranulph Fiennes on his epic three year expedition around the world—the British Transglobe Expedition. Having lived and worked in extreme climates in many parts of the world, it is evident Edwyn has had ample opportunity to discover and taste all manner of local produce - some not to be repeated.

Having also trained as a cook, Edwyn has worked in a number of restaurants and commercial kitchens, a valued experience

he would use years later upon opening a cafĂŠ in London's famous - and very busy - Borough Market. Working here, Edwyn met and worked with stallholders and producers from all over the country, as well as a number of food writers, TV chefs and restaurateurs.

Having since moved to Kent, he has worked as a cook in Canterbury before setting up an independent research and development company exploring issues and opportunities in land use, conservation and agriculture, both in the UK and globally. During this time he was awarded a diploma in Countryside Management by the University of London. He is also a member of the Kent Wildlife Trust and a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society.

William Opie, chairman of the private/public sector Produced in Kent board commented, "I am delighted to welcome Edwyn onto the Produced in Kent team. Never has the time been better to promote our great local produce and I very much look forward to working with Edwyn as we take PinK forward during challenging but very exciting times ahead."

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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BUSINESS

SIMPLER INCOME TAX FOR THE SIMPLEST SMALL BUSINESSES CASH ACCOUNTING FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

From April 2013, cash accounting for tax purposes will be permitted for small unincorporated businesses (sole traders and partnerships). This cashbased income tax system will be available to businesses with turnover (cash income) of up to £77,000 per annum, which corresponds with the current VAT registration threshold. A business can opt in and out of the scheme as it chooses, and once in the scheme a business is permitted to stay within it until annual cash-based turnover exceeds £154,000.

There is a higher entry threshold of £154,000 for those reporting their income on a cash basis for the purpose of Universal Tax Credit in order to align the two schemes. The quid pro quo is that a simplified list of allowable expenses such as trading expenses, acquisition of plant and machinery and some interest charges will be deductible, but certain other expenses will not be deductible in calculating taxable profits under the cash accounting scheme.

Please note that not all small businesses are in fact permitted to use this new type of tax calculation. Examples of excluded businesses include farmers or creative artists that have a current averaging claim (or who use the herd basis), financial trading businesses, Limited Liability Partnerships and Limited companies.

SOME FACTS ABOUT THE CASH BASIS:

• The cash basis must be operated on a fiscal year basis – that is from 6 April to 5 April.

• The taxable profit is the amount of receipts, less allowable business payments, less a ‘simplified expenses’ calculation.

• There are three aspects to simplified expenses: • A standard mileage rate for business use of cars or motorcycles • Flat rate expenses for business use of home • Flat rate adjustment for personal use of business premises With simplified expenses a business must record how many business miles are travelled each year by car or by motorcycle, and estimate how many hours are spent working from home.

The standard mileage rates will be mandatory for cars and motorcycles, but could also be used for other vehicles such as vans. This will not however be possible if a claim has already been made for a vehicle under the capital allowances regime.

A flat rate expense for business use of home would provide a deduction either as a single flat rate or on a ‘three tier’ basis. A similar adjustment for personal use of business premises needs to be made if applicable, which will be based on a three tier banded flat rate adjustment to actual costs, which is supposed to reflect private use of the premises.

OTHER SIMPLIFICATIONS

• Unless there is a material element of private use, it is proposed that telephone and internet costs should be allowed in full.

• HMRC will review and update current guidance on subsistence costs for small businesses where there are costs incurred in travelling away from the base location.

• Instead of apportioning the cost of stationery and related items, HMRC have proposed that estimates should be made of business costs, for example on a ‘per letter’ basis.

COMPLICATIONS

There are many potential complications with the proposed cash accounting system. These include consideration for reductions in business use of assets, transactions which are not entered into on an arm’s length basis, receipts which are in the form of ‘money’s worth’ being treated as income and also exclusions to interest costs on borrowing.

Furthermore it is proposed that the figures will operate on a VAT inclusive basis, and any VATpaid to HMRC is to be treated as an expense, and any VAT repaid to the business is to be treated as income. This would obviously combine well with the flat rate accounting scheme for VAT, and it should be noted that use of the cash basis for VAT accounting is a condition of the scheme.

There is further guidance (and restrictions!) on the ability for a business to claim relief for losses or rather, excess expenditure; it has suffered on the basis of cash accounting.

It is probably safe to say that the term ‘simplified’ being used to describe this scheme may not be accurate. In fact, in order to make an informed choice about the appropriate set of rules to use, small business owners will need a clear grasp of some quite complex issues. Otherwise, use of cash accounting could potentially increase the income tax liability for a small business.

If you would like to explore the potential impact of the cash accounting scheme on your business, please contact your local Wilkins Kennedy advisor.

To discuss your business or personal tax planning issues, please contact Ian McIntyre on 01233 629255 or ian.mcintyre@wilkinskennedy.com

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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LOCALBUSINESS

insideKENT INTERVIEWS

simon lace, MUSEUMS AND HERITAGE MANAGER AMA OF

maidstone museum When did Maidstone Museum first open?

The museum was first opened more than 150 years ago, in 1858.

What makes the museum stand out as a great family visitor destination?

It’s free, friendly, centrally located and there are family and children’s activities on every day of every school holiday. What’s not to like?

The new East Wing was opened a year ago how has that benefited the museum?

The East Wing has revitalised a cherished local institution. Bright, modern facilities, vastly increased access to the museum’s wonderful collections and great new public programmes which these improvements have enabled, have inspired thousands of local residents to return to the museum and encouraged equal numbers of new visitors.

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Tell us one fact that we may not know about Maidstone Museum?

It has over two-thirds of a million artefacts in its collections. You currently see only around 2% on display.

How important are volunteers to the museum?

Volunteers are very important to us. We have lots of people who use their time creatively to assist unique community resource. They make friends, share their skills and knowledge and learn new skills.

What is the most challenging aspect to running the museum?

In the current economic climate the hardest challenge we face is maintaining high quality public services in the face of huge budgetary pressures.

How important are events like My Big Kent Weekend to the museum?

Events like the Big Weekend enable us to show the museum to people who perhaps aren’t familiar with us. It also gives us a chance to show visitors behind the scenes – something that everyone always finds fascinating

What events at Maidstone Museum in 2013 are you most looking forward to?

On the weekend of 13th-14th July we’re having a Anglo-Saxon Festival at the museum. There’ll be a Saxon encampment in the adjacent gardens with lots of re-enactors demonstrating how our ancestors lived 1,000 years ago. There’ll even be a Viking longboat ailing up the Medway!

How would you like to see the museum progress in five years time?

By 2018 I’m sure we’ll be regarded as one of the best museums in the South East (we’re already the best in Kent)!

Maidstone Museum St Faith’s Street Maidstone ME14 1LH 01622 602838 museuminfo@maidstone.gov.uk www.museum.maidstone.gov.uk

Kingsbrook Park is a beautiful collection of apartments and townhouses ideally located on the banks of the tranquil River Stour and set amongst beautiful landscaped lawns.

Each home benefits from private outdoor space and high specification interiors.

The historic and vibrant city centre of Canterbury is a short walk away with its Cathedral, shops, restaurants, bars and museums. Travel links are excellent from nearby Canterbury West station, providing high speed trains to London St Pancras and to the continent (via Ashford International).

1 and 2 bedroom apartments from ÂŁ159,950 3 and 4 bed townhouses from ÂŁ324,950 Call 01227 477100 or email kingsbrookpark@berkeleyhomes.co.uk

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www.kingsbrookpark.co.uk Details correct at time of going to press.

Photography depicts Augustine Place and typical Berkeley interiors at Kingsbrook Park.

Our vision for your future

protect

CHARITY

The NSPCC needs your support to

Photography from iStockphoto, posed by models

Kent’s most vulnerable children

IT’S SHOCKING TO THINK THAT ANYONE WOULD INTENTIONALLY HARM A CHILD, BUT THOUSANDS OF CHILDREN ACROSS THE UK SUFFER HARM EVERY DAY, OFTEN AT THE HANDS OF PEOPLE WHO ARE KNOWN TO THEM. The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) exists to help protect children – to stand up for them, listen to them and to help them take action so they can look forward to a better future.

Working right across Kent, last year the NSPCC’s Gillingham team helped 130 of the county’s most vulnerable children and young people to access the support they need. Between April 2011 and March 2012, the charity also dealt with more than 560 calls from members of the public who were concerned about a child and answered over 6,200 landline calls to ChildLine from the Kent area.

The charity’s Kent team offers a range of direct support for children in the county, in particular those who have suffered sexual abuse as well as children in local authority care.

In order to fund the charity’s innovative new services in Kent and Medway, the NSPCC has launched a £1 million fundraising appeal, and is calling on people in the county to help protect local children by supporting the appeal in whatever way they can.

Rupa-Dey Amin, NSPCC head of fundraising in the region explained, “Local authority statistics show that last year 1,821 children in Kent and Medway were subject to a child protection plan because they were considered at risk of abuse – this includes more than 500 children aged four and under. These are just the children we know about. Our research suggests that far more cases go unreported, leaving many children to suffer in silence.

“Our service centre in Kent is working alongside other agencies to make a real difference to the

lives of vulnerable and neglected children in the county and we are committed to delivering these services, however, we can’t do it alone – we need the support of the local community.

“The NSPCC Forever Smiles appeal will help us to reach out to even more children and young people in Kent and Medway and give them the support they need to change their lives, and those of their families, for the better.”

Best-selling author and Kent resident Martina Cole officially launched the appeal at the end of February, but the NSPCC needs you to get involved too. Absolutely anyone can get involved, regardless of whether you’re an individual, business or group of friends. Why not hold a cake sale or bake off with your friends? Host a dinner party, a dress down day in the office or get your class at school to take part in a sponsored silence. If you’re feeling really adventurous and have a place in the London Marathon, why not use that place to raise funds for the NSPCC? Or you could even take part in a sponsored skydive!

To find out more about the Forever Smiles appeal and how you can get involved, contact the fundraising team on 01293 651840 or email foreversmiles@nspcc.org.uk.

THE FACTS ABOUT CHILD ABUSE 18 – 24 year olds • One in four had been abused or neglected during childhood.

• One in seven had been abused or neglected by a parent or guardian.

• One in nine had experienced severe physical violence during childhood at the hands of an adult.

• One in nine had experience sexual abuse during childhood.

• Almost one in ten had been severely neglected by parents or guardians during childhood.

11 – 17 year olds • Around one in five children have been abused or neglected.

• More than one in eight children have experienced abuse or neglect by a parent or guardian.

• One in 14 children have experienced severe physical violence at the hands of an adult.

• One in 20 children have experienced sexual abuse.

• One in ten children experienced severe neglect.

"I am really pleased to be supporting the NSPCC’s Forever Smiles Appeal, and I hope that other local people will do the same. Child protection is everyone’s responsibility and by supporting the NSPCC appeal we are all playing our part in protecting some of the most vulnerable children in Kent." Cheryl Baker, NSPCC Supporter www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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EDUCATION

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

King’s Rochester A Community Where Individuals Flourish

Sweeney Todd, presented by the pupils of King’s Rochester Thursday 14th, Friday 15th and Saturday 16th March at 7.30pm

Founded in 604, King’s has evolved into an outstanding 21st century school for 3 to 18 year old boys and girls with excellent facilities at all levels. Boarders may join at 11. Academic standards are high – just look at the Key Stage 1 and 2, GCSE and A Level results. Parents celebrate the way King’s supports their children to achieve top academic results – but without being an examination hothouse.

King’s is a school with a broad-ability intake and recognises that every child is unique with talents and strengths which may extend far beyond the classroom; for instance, this term, the Senior School will be performing Stephen Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd (see right).

With its cathedral links, music is a great strength at King’s, but it has also recently acquired the former Stirling Sports Centre on Maidstone Road, Rochester which, after a half million pound

refurbishment, will provide King’s pupils – and the local community who share it – with some of the best sporting facilities in the South East.

The centre has been re-named The King’s Rochester Sports Centre.Principal, Jeremy Walker is proud that the school’s strapline, “A community that enables individuals to flourish”, is central to everything it does.

Pupils look forward to showing you around at the school’s next Open Day on Friday 10th May from 4.30pm – 7pm and, Principal, Jeremy Walker, will speak at 4.45pm and 6.30pm.

There is no need to book but, should you have any questions please contact registrar, Lynne Davies, on 01634 888590 or email on admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk. www.kings-rochester.co.uk

…Blood, humour, revenge, romance, wit and exhilarating music – the gripping musical thriller, Sweeney Todd has it all. Set in 19th century London, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street has revenge on his mind and a razor in his hand – King’s Rochester Senior School presents Stephen Sondheim’s classic tale of terror. Produced by West End theatre director, Karen Hebden with the school’s director of music, Douglas McIlwraith, and the pupils in the technical society.

Tickets: £15 for adults, £12 for all concessions which includes school age pupils.

The school has given it a 12A rating as there is moderately offensive language, a small amount of violence, a certain amount of stage blood and implied cannibalism. If you would like to preview what is in the show, you can see a live production on YouTube at www.youtube.com/watch?v=REBU7UcQ4vk

For tickets, email: tickets@kings-rochester.co.uk or phone: 01634 888555

Open Day Friday 10th May 2013 4.30pm – 7pm Principal, Jeremy Walker, will speak at 4.45pm and 6.30pm Ask about our personalised Tours and Taster Days

www.kings-rochester.co.uk T: 01634 888590 E: admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk

)NDEPENDENT EDUCATION FOR GIRLS AND BOYS AGED s "OARDING AVAILABLE FROM %XCEPTIONAL ACADEMIC RESULTS FROM BROAD ABILITY INTAKE s 3MALL CLASSES !WARD WINNING MUSIC s &ANTASTIC RANGE OF EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES New sports centre with extensive facilities Academic, Music and Sports scholarships available at 11+/13+/16+ Organ scholarships offered at 13+/16+ and Chorister scholarships at age 8+

R56841 Kings School indexmay13 190x133.indd 1

30 minutes approx by train from central London and Bromley South Extensive daily minibus services including: Bearsted, Gravesend, Hadlow, Kings Hill, Longfield, Maidstone, Meopham, Rainham, Sevenoaks, Sittingbourne, Tonbridge and West Malling

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

14/02/2013 16:52

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EDUCATION

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

MidKent College BEST EVER SUCCESS RATES COUPLED WITH IMPROVEMENTS TO ITS MEDWAY AND MAIDSTONE CAMPUSES MEAN THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO STUDY AT MIDKENT COLLEGE.

In the last academic year the College helped almost 5,000 students of all ages to achieve a major qualification, with an all-time high pass rate of 93%.

In addition, its success rate – the principle measure of quality of education in colleges – improved by 3% and now stands at 4% above the national average.

Principal Stephen Grix said, “This is a phenomenal achievement and demonstrates that students who attend MidKent College have a better than ever chance of success and of improving their career prospects.

“This is another important milestone for the College and a fantastic reward for all the hard work our lecturers and other members of staff put in on a daily basis.”

One of the reasons MidKent College’s success rates are so high is because it places a large emphasis on the health and wellbeing of

its students. Whether it’s additional learning support, financial advice or personal guidance, the College has a dedicated student services team available to help at both campuses.

Other forms of support available include careers guidance, personal tutors, student welfare officers, youth workers, peer mentors, counsellors and the MKC Students’ Union.

But it’s not just academic achievement that continues to improve at MidKent College – it’s the physical structures too.

The College’s Maidstone Campus is currently undergoing a £23 million redevelopment that will bring the site up to the high standard of the Medway Campus in Gillingham, which opened in 2009 at a cost of £86m.

Due for completion in December 2013, the Maidstone makeover also includes refurbishment of the premises formerly occupied by the University for the Creative Arts.

Meanwhile, a number of new rooms have also been opened at the Medway Campus including a motor vehicle workshop and music live room.

Mr Grix said, “The Learning and Skills Council has assessed our financial strength as ‘outstanding’, which is why we have been able to invest so significantly in both our campuses.

What this means is that both prospective and existing students can be confident of receiving the best education in top quality premises.”

MidKent College will be holding open evenings on Monday, 4 March from 5.30-7.30pm (Maidstone) and Wednesday, 6 March from 68pm (Medway) to give prospective students the chance to find out more about courses, view facilities and pick up the latest course guides.

Visit www.midkent.ac.uk for more information.

OPEN

CHECK US OUT THIS MARCH AT ONE OF OUR...

EVENTS MONDAY 4 MARCH 2013 5.30PM - 7.30PM MAIDSTONE CAMPUS TONBRIDGE ROAD, MAIDSTONE

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01634 402020 www.midkent.ac.uk

A great alternative to school sixth forms

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EDUCATION

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Reflections on my first term at Sutton Valence Prep School

BY MALCOLM GOUGH, HEAD

Over the many years I have been involved in education, I have always tried to teach that it is important to take risks with learning, as sometimes only by doing this do we break through those barriers and become stronger and better as a result.

Moving to my new position last September as Head of Sutton Valence Prep School was inevitably going to involve significant change and barrier breaking.

It was a calculated and informed risk, I admit! I had known SVPS and SVS for many years, as my previous incarnation had been at The Schools at Somerhill, near Tonbridge. Also, as one who has been inspecting schools for more than a decade, one learns what to look for when time is limited, one develops quite sensitive antennae.

I’m delighted to say that everything I felt and established during those visits and interviews

has turned out to be very well-founded. This is a first-rate school, a fabulous and strong community, very loyal to its own and extremely caring. There is a good mix of ability, certainly many very capable children indeed, as clever as you’ll find anywhere (this year, for example, 27 out of the 31 who sat passed the 11+), yet also those who do not find work so easy, and many in between.

full and wide range of high quality opportunities, the co-curricular, not just in terms of varying educational approaches and experiences, but also clubs, sport, music, art, DT, drama etc.

The real strength of this school is how well it caters for all of them and we will constantly strive for ways to improve what we do for each and every boy and girl in our care.

This is an exciting time to have taken the helm at such a remarkable and unique school and my family and I have so enjoyed this first term. What a privilege it is to work with youngsters and with like-minded families who want the best they can possibly give their children and have them emerging as well-adjusted, capable and confident young adults in the making.

The first thing to establish for any child in my school is their happiness. This is not simply a sentimental item on a wish list; it is grounded in the firm reality that unless a child is happy, he or she cannot work and learn as effectively as we need them to. Secondly, we need to provide a

Thirdly, we know we need, at the end of all this, to bring our children on to as close to their potential as we can get them and ready for the next stage in their education.

www.svs.org.uk

“Early Years provision is outstanding” Top 21% of schools for value added at A level

Open

Mornings Preparatory School (Nursery to age 11) Saturday 16th March 2013 Wednesday 15th May 2013 T: 01622 842117 | E: barnetts@svs.org.uk

Senior School (HMC 11–18 day and boarding) Saturday 18th May 2013 T: 01622 845206 | E: websterk@svs.org.uk

www.svs.org.uk

Advert ref: 0113WS/IK

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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EDUCATION

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Dukie Community “THE DUKE OF YORK’S HAS NEVER BEEN JUST A SCHOOL TO ME AND IT NEVER WILL BE. IT’S A DUKIE COMMUNITY – EVERYONE LOOKS OUT FOR EACH OTHER.”

The Duke of York’s Royal Military School is a distinguished non-selective full boarding school for children aged from 11 to 18. Set in 150 acres of Kent countryside near Dover, your child will feel both safe and secure in our close-knit community.

The school has adopted a military ethos in its approach to education for over 200 years, as we recognise that children in all walks of life thrive in schools where traditional values such as selfdiscipline, self-reliance, spirituality, leadership and respect for others are present. What makes our community fun, vibrant and successful is a fusion of these military values, combined with

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the other elements present in all good schools.

Our pupils enjoy Combined Cadet Force activities from year 9 to 13, in which they have many opportunities to develop their leadership and team working skills. Our patron is His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent and we are sponsored by the Ministry of Defence, meaning that spectacular military parades and ceremonies remain firmly at the heart of our school culminating in Grand Day. The school’s GCSE provision is comprehensive and our success rate is significantly higher than the national average at GCSE (A* to C including

maths and English). The introduction of BTEC Public Services has been very popular and we are trialling BTEC Military Music. In the sixth form, a wide range of courses are available, currently 16 at AS Level and 17 at A2 Level. Our acclaimed military band continues to perform at events and members of our talented senior choir recently appeared on national TV at The Military Awards 2012.

We encourage you to visit us to see what an extraordinary school we are.

Visit www.doyrms.com for more information.

EDUCATION

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Learning Outside of the Classroom Academic success is vital, but it is the extra curricular activities that are offered outside of the classroom that contribute greatly to the self esteem of the pupils that attend our school. Whilst music and sport are still celebrated, there are also many other activities going on in our busy programme.

Acting Up From the early infant nativity, right up to putting on a major production, drama at Kent College is on the up – with students as young as three being given the opportunity to explore their talents on the stage. The nativity Being Told by the Stable Cat was an absolute treat for all that attended, although Joseph was decidedly disgruntled at finding nowhere to sleep!

More recently the senior students at Kent College performed in a stunning production of Guys and Dolls. Every element of the production shone, especially the innovative multimedia set which took us everywhere from a street in Broadway to The Hot Box Club in the blink of an eye. The sell out audiences were mightily impressed, commenting that it was the strongest cast they had ever seen in a school production. Students helped with every aspect from the initial design of the sets, to applying cast make-up and helping with costume changes. It was perhaps the slickest school performance Kent has seen in many years, so it is no wonder that the school has just released plans for a development which will include a 600 capacity auditorium.

Down on the Farm From feeding orphaned lambs to mucking out the horses, students at Kent College have the

opportunity to experience the working day of a farm first hand, both inside and outside of the curriculum. This is such an important educational experience, especially at a time when so much of our food arrives pre-packed and disguised from its natural form. Students are matched with animals according to their level of experience once allocation for the County Show takes place.

The students then spend many weeks preparing their charges for the most important event in the county calendar, including bathing and training the animals to walk properly in the show-ring.

This year, of the many rosettes that were won, the best was for a supreme champion duck proudly shown by Lizzie in year nine. Commitment whatever the weather is essential for the wouldbe farmers, and a good lesson on the demands made on our farmers throughout the year.

These are just two of the activities that are on offer during the extended school day, with each student encouraged to participate in at least two different activities outside of the curriculum. All activities showcase responsibility, cooperation, time keeping and commitment – skills that will go a long way in today's world of work.

For more information about the school visit www.kentcollege.com

Happy Days We can help Wrap around care Idyllic surroundings Strong pastoral support Excellent results

Come and see us‌ every day is open day

Outstanding co-education for 3 to 18 year olds

Download the Kent College App from the App Store

Ă•Â˜ÂˆÂœĂ€ĂŠ-V…œœÂ?ĂŠUĂŠ01227 762436 UĂŠ-iÂ˜ÂˆÂœĂ€ĂŠ-V…œœÂ?ĂŠUĂŠ01227 763231

www.kentcollege.com www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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EDUCATION

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

What is Round Square?

If you’ve heard of Cobham Hall, chances are you’ve also come across the term ‘Round Square’ – after all, at Cobham we say proudly and constantly, “We are a Round Square school” and we talk at length about our Round Square ethos and how it underpins everything we do and everything we aspire to.

But what does Round Square mean and why is it so important?

It is a multi-faceted term that encompasses an organisation, a philosophy for living and an enormous range of life-changing and worldchanging opportunities and experiences.

Round Square takes forward-thinking German educationalist Kurt Hahn’s idea of education through experience and breaks it down into six philosophical principles: internationalism, democracy, environmentalism, adventure, leadership and service. Round Square schools like Cobham take these six ‘ideals’ and turn them into affirmative action – practical expressions of some of the most profound notions a child (or an adult) could have.

This is where the brilliance of Round Square becomes clear. How many times have you heard children complain that they’ll never be able to apply what they learnt from their

history/geography/mathematics lesson in a real life situation? The practical nature of the Round Square philosophy inspires young people to understand how theories learnt in the classroom are relevant and applicable to their everyday lives.

A girl at Cobham might learn the theories behind world poverty in her geography lesson, but it is only when she spends time building a school on a Round Square community service project in one of South Africa’s poorest towns that she’ll understand poverty’s true meaning, what she can do to change it and be consumed by a desire to do so.

At Cobham, Round Square and the subtleties of the six philosophies or ‘pillars’ uncovers a wealth of opportunities for our girls to have a rich education. Girls can go on student exchanges to almost anywhere in the world through the extensive Round Square network and any student who attends a Round Square

conference (one international and several regional conferences are held each year all over the world) will come back with a changed perspective.

Closer to home, Round Square philosophies are very much ‘lived’ at Cobham – with girls joining us from over 30 different countries, a democratically elected student leadership team, environmental projects including the largest photovoltaic system in the local area, adventures outdoors, overnight and overseas for girls of all ages and a constantly evolving service programme that is intrinsically linked with the Sixth Form International Baccalaureate Diploma.

Through Round Square, girls at Cobham Hall discover, “there’s more in you than you think.” www.cobhamhall.com

IB World School and Member of Round Square Situated in 150 acres of historic parkland Close to A2/M2 and M20 17 minutes by train from London St Pancras Full, weekly and flexi boarding IB Diploma offered in Sixth Form Independent Boarding and Day School for Girls aged 11 to 18 years

OPEN MORNING

For more information contact Admissions: T: +44 (0)1474 823371 E: enquiries@cobhamhall.com W: www.cobhamhall.com

Saturday 16th March 2013 9.30am—12.30pm

”There’s more in you than you think.”

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EDUCATION

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Sport at St Edmund’s St Edmund's School Canterbury is proud of its excellent provision of both boys' and girls' sports for all ages. For boys, the principal sports are football, hockey, cricket and tennis; for girls, they are hockey, netball and tennis. Every pupil has a chance to be in one of these teams and also to participate in a wide range of other sports including: squash, badminton, basketball, athletics and swimming.

The recently-appointed Director of Sport, Jon Hellyar, is looking forward to developing the sports even further and has already introduced indoor rowing into the Junior and Senior Schools for fitness training with a view to racing on the water in the near future.

Following strong performances this year from the netball, hockey and football teams across all age groups, Mr Hellyar commented “I am very proud of the recent success achieved by the St Edmund’s teams; this truly represents the talent and determination of our pupils” If you have never visited this historic Canterbury school you will be interested to read that it stands in 60 acres of beautiful grounds with extensive playing fields, six tennis courts and a pitch and putt golf course.

Other on-site facilities include squash courts, a heated open-air swimming pool, a superb sports hall and a rifle range. Additionally, this spring will see the completion of the flood-lit, all-weather sports pitch.

For boys and girls with a sporting talent, sports scholarships are available at St Edmund’s from the age of 11. These are awarded to the highest achievers in competitive assessments and the winners will be given every encouragement to excel in their sport.

St Edmund's School Canterbury St Thomas Hill, Canterbury, Kent CT2 8HU 01227 475600 www.stedmunds.org.uk

High achievers All round excellence for 3–18 year old boys and girls

Open Mornings Nursery & Pre-Prep School - Saturday 2nd March Junior School for Years 3 to 8 - Friday 8th March

Visit stedmunds.org.uk or call 01227 475600 for more details.

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EDUCATION

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Marlborough House School At Marlborough House School, happy children succeed. We believe in high expectations, the value of knowing each child as an individual and providing a breadth of experiences, but above all this is our commitment to making sure children here are happy – because we know that only then they will achieve their goals.

It all begins in Nursery, for children from rising 3 to 4 years old, where the caring staff, bright building and safe walled garden provide security and comfort for these youngest pupils. With teaching provided by specialist sports, IT, and music staff, parents don’t need to fit in additional classes outside school, and our flexible sessions mean parents can choose how much time they want their children to spend at Nursery.

Most Nursery children move on to our Pre-Prep to start in our Reception classes. Education in these vital years focuses on fun, discovery and enjoyment. Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 each have two small classes of around 16 children.

With a teacher and teaching assistant for each class, and Head of Pre-Prep overseeing the department, we really do make sure that each girl or boy has the attention he or she needs to thrive and learn. The opening of a newly renovated Pre-Prep in Spring 2013 is eagerly anticipated; bright new classrooms and a purpose-built PrePrep assembly hall will further enhance the learning environment for our younger children.

When children move up to the Prep school in Year 3 they begin to experience the full breadth

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of opportunities available to them at MHS. Our children are encouraged to get the most out of every experience they’re offered whether it’s academic lessons, boarding, sport, music, drama, clubs or outings. This is also where the hard work begins and thoughts turn to senior schools. We support all of our pupils in the run-up to final exams, whatever their personal aims, and with scholarships achieved across the breadth of school life, their results speak for themselves.

Our pupils undoubtedly achieve fantastic results, but, most importantly, they don’t take the opportunities they have for granted; their experiences here form young people who are self-assured, articulate and well-rounded individuals. It comes down, once again, to being happy; they are happy in their friendships and happy in their own skins!

We would like to invite you to visit us and see our School in action. Please contact Fiona Wooley, Registrar on 01580 753555 to make an appointment or request a prospectus. To get a flavour of life at Marlborough House please do take a look at our website www.marlboroughhouseschool.co.uk.

EDUCATION

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

St Lawrence College

The new theatre at St Lawrence College is proving a bit hit with the whole school community. This term saw the youngest pupils, aged from three to seven years, wow their parents with their first appearance in the theatre at their ‘Sharing Assembly’, showing their mums and dads some of the exciting things they had been working on in class.

The first time the pupils entered the theatre for a rehearsal, there were gasps of wonder as they entered the interior. Beyond the entrance foyer, the impressive auditorium, complete with balcony, is able to seat up to 500 people. The stage dominates one wall but the building is constructed so that performances can also take place ‘in the round’. The multi-use facility also contains classroom space and a meeting room, providing a combination of teaching, performance, assembly and function space within an innovative design, including state-of-the art audio, video and lighting.

St Lawrence College has been making the most of its new facility since it opened in September 2012, but the theatre is having its official opening as ‘Taylor Hall’ on Saturday 23rd March to coincide with the Senior School musical production of Little Shop of Horrors, for which rehearsals are well underway.

The theatre is just one of the many fantastic facilities available to pupils that the school has invested in over recent years. The traditional school buildings sit comfortably alongside the modern sports complex, theatre and new girls’ boarding house, within delightful, spacious grounds.

However, a good school is not just about facilities and surroundings.

Outstanding teaching, strong academic results and happy pupils are key to its success.

Why not come along and see for yourself what St Lawrence College has to offer your child? Visitors are welcome at any time, contact: Nursery & Junior School (3-11 years) tel: 01843 572912 email: mag@slcuk.com

Senior School (11-18 years) tel: 01843 572931 email: ah@slcuk.com

www.slcuk.com

St Lawrence College

Co-educational, day and boarding school for ages 3-18 years

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EDUCATION

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Homewood School Homewood School & Sixth Form Centre offers a caring learning environment in which all students can flourish and succeed. Upon admission, students are placed into one of five mini schools, each with staff dedicated to supporting the needs of each individual student.

The curriculum is innovative; designed to stimulate a lifelong passion for learning. In Year 9 students begin GCSE options. All students are given the opportunity to complete the English Baccalaureate and can also follow vocational courses from a broad range of choices.

Formal assessment takes place on a regular basis and progress is tracked with achievements grades and targets.

The school’s Sinden Theatre – named after the acclaimed Sir Donald Sinden, a local man – encourages students to participate in many aspects of the performing arts to a high level of attainment. The school has dance, drama and music groups and many trips are run to national and local venues. The school plays a full part in the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme.

The Tenterden district is well served by primary, junior and infant schools and a range of nurseries, which included Tenterden Junior School and Tenterden Infant School. All our local schools work together in the Tenterden Rural Alliance to maintain a calm environment and encourage children to gain confidence, work hard and learn to think independently. www.homewood-school.co.uk

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WALTHAMSTOW HALL S e v e n o a k s K e n t

Nurturing Trailblazers Since 866

Open Morning Thursday 14th March 2013 10.00am - 12.00 noon

“Thriving girls’ day school. Produces quietly confident young women with a ‘can do’ attitude and an adventurous spirit.

The strong academic results are a happy by-product of all this.”

Every child has potential.

Not every school realises it.

Open Morning: Tues 30th April 9am to 11.30am For more details contact us: 01580 211273 www.bethanyschool.org.uk /bethanyschkent /bethanyschkent Goudhurst, Kent, TN17 1LB

“Top flight Science teaching” “Particularly strong History department” “Plenty of debate, discussion and interaction from early on – work in a team with teachers” “Wonderful Art and Textiles rooms” “Inspirational new Director of Music” “Sport popular” “Girls get involved in everything” The Good Schools Guide, September 2012 For information on Admissions please call our Registrar on 01732 451 334 or go to

www.walthamstow-hall.co.uk

HOME+GARDEN

Beauty and the Bathroom Philippe Starck's Organic Wall Mounted Mixer with Massaud Basin Philippe Starck's unique, organic minimalist designs are governed by his basic principle to inject sculptural power into his work.

Soft shapes and flowing transitions are combined with intelligent functions, whilst sensuality is combined with ecological value.

This sense of harmony also signifies versatility, whereby the design can be integrated harmoniously into a wide variety of bathroom ambiences. Invest in your bathroom setting this spring and opt for the organic wall mounted mixer, with chrome finish and massaud basin.

Ripples 1-3 Iron Bar Lane Off Burgate Canterbury CT1 2HN www.ripples.ltd.uk

Samuel Heath Fairfield Diverter with Geometric Crystal

Charterhouse Basin Both stylish and elegant, this traditional basin is the perfect choice for the classic English bathroom.

Simplicity in its best form, Lefroy Brooks Charterhouse Basin comes with the option of a pedestal from £530.40, as well as a choice of one, two or three tap holes. Lefroy Brooks Charterhouse Basin, pictured with classic three hole basin mixer with pop-up waste £400.80. Pop-up wastes also available in silver nickel, antique gold and satin nickel.

The Bathroom Shop 11 East Cross Tenterden TN30 6AD www.the-bathroomshop.co.uk

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Inspired by the aesthetic movement, Samuel Heath's Fairfield collection combines flowing lines and architectural detail, whilst retaining a contemporary feel. If you are looking for a shower fitting that is classic in design and flawless in finish, the dual control shower valve with geometric crystal, 200mm shower head and arm is the choice for you. Diverter with geometric crystal and kit from £2,947.20, pictured in chrome. Also available in polished nickel, stainless steel and antique gold.

The Bathroom Shop 11 East Cross Tenterden TN30 6AD www.the-bathroomshop.co.uk

Arguably, the bathroom is one of, if not the most important room in the house. As well as providing a space of functionality at the book ends of your day, the privacy of such a spot allows for a respite of calm and tranquillity from the trials and tribulations of the outside world. With this in mind, your choice of furnishings and fittings are fundamental when it comes to creating the haven you desire.

Whether you are looking for a complete overhaul, or simply to enhance your current space, these Kentish specialists have it all. Practical and pleasing, bathrooms have never looked so good.

La Chapelle Console Basin

Sterlingham's Art Deco Round Mirror Encased in a tilting frame, The Sterlingham Company Ltd offer a range of bespoke bathroom mirrors, made with the same parameters in mind as traditional early 20th century designs. Silver soldered, these English produced Art Deco mirrors are available in round, square or rectangular frames and can be tailored to your desired size.

Pictured is Sterlingham's round chrome and silver nickel design, from £718.45. Also available in satin nickel and antique gold.

The Bathroom Shop 11 East Cross Tenterden TN30 6AD www.the-bathroomshop.co.uk

Based on an original early 20th century Parisian design, this French-inspired console basin exudes the classic, traditional lines for which Lefroy Brooks La Chapelle have become renowned. Teamed with ceramic legs, this design is available with one, two or three tap holes. Lefroy Brooks La Chapelle console basin from £1,034.40, pictured with Connaught three hole basin mixer and white levers £400.80. Levers are also available in chrome, silver nickel, antique gold and satin nickel.

The Bathroom Shop 11 East Cross Tenterden TN30 6AD www.the-bathroomshop.co.uk

Samuel Heath Xiara Shower Valve Modern, stylish and without compromise, this thermostatic shower valve sits perfectly within Samuel Heath's Xiara range of contemporary, modern brassware design.

Embrace the current movement towards smaller, softer fittings and opt for the exquisite dual control valve with 200mm shower head and shower arm, from £1,562.65. Also pictured is the delightful chrome rectangular shower basket at £133.45.

The Bathroom Shop 11 East Cross Tenterden TN30 6AD www.the-bathroomshop.co.uk

Ripples SLIPP Bath The SLIPP freestanding bath does not fail to impress as a stylish onepiece with clean lines. Traditional in shape but with much more to offer, the SLIPP design is ideal for those who enjoy a relaxing soak — predominantly due to the maximisation of internal space due to the thin rim design. Manufactured using the unique Acrymite system, the SLIPP bath costs £1,194.00 inc. vat and measures L1590mm by W700mm.

Ripples 1-3 Iron Bar Lane Off Burgate Canterbury CT1 2HN www.ripples.ltd.uk

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HOME+GARDEN INTRODUCING THE ALL NEW

Stellar 3000 Cookware BRIGHTEN UP YOUR KITCHEN AND YOUR COOKING WITH STELLAR’S NEW TAKE ON THEIR POPULAR 3000 RANGE. THE 3000 RANGE HAS EXTENDED ITS APPEAL WITH VIBRANT RUBY RED AND CLASSIC VANILLA PANS JOINING THE ORIGINAL TIMELESS BLACK COLLECTION. New to the Stellar 3000 family is the non-stick 28cm two-handled stirfry/wok. The stir-fry is manufactured in aluminium, its superb heat transference makes it ideal for the fast cooking times and ensures lower energy consumption. The reassuring comfy-grip handles stay cool during cooking and are oven-safe up to 180°C, making this one of the most versatile pans around.

Stellar 3000 is known for quality, dependability and efficiency. Stellar 3000 pans benefit from Teflon Platinum Plus, a triple-layer non-stick coating with a raised textured base for healthier cooking (also PFOA free).

Brimming with style and suitable for all hob types, Stellar cookware is easy to clean and holds the Stellar lifetime guarantee and 10-year non-stick guarantee, so it’s easy to see why the Stellar 3000 range is the new musthave for any kitchen.

Woks from £57, fry pans from £27 and 5-piece sets available at £168. www.stellarcookware.co.uk

Create your picture perfect garden room “Why not make the most of your garden?”

Our Garden Rooms could be just what you are looking for. 

Designed and built with your purpose in mind and for use throughout all the seasons.

A Friendly Individual Service.

Free Site Visit & Quotation.

Full Installation, Base work, Double Glazed, Insulated throughout, Internally Decorated, Floor coverings, Electrics & Lighting

Ideal For Your....

 Home Office  Gym  Hobby Studio  Workshop  Outdoor living  Dress making  Music room  Home Cinema  Playroom  Relaxation zone

Please call to book a site visit or to discuss your requirements further

Tel: 01634 200695

www.chameleongardenrooms.com

          

    www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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HOME+GARDEN

Dobbies Wooden Grow House, £ 99

Dobbies Mini Greenhouse, £15 and Blackboard Flower Stick, £3

GROW YOUR OWN FRUIT AND VEG THIS SPRING WITH

Dobbies Garden Centre FOUNDED BY JAMES DOBBIE IN 1865, DOBBIES HAS BEEN OFFERING EXPERT ADVICE TO HORTICULTURALISTS FOR ALMOST 150 YEARS. WITH OVER 10,000 PLANTS, TREES AND SHRUBS IN ITS KENT GARDEN CENTRES BETWEEN ASHFORD AND GILLINGHAM, WHETHER YOU’RE A GREEN-FINGERED GURU OR A RELATIVE NOVICE, DOBBIES WILL INSPIRE YOU TO GET INTO THE GARDEN THIS SPRING. It’s common knowledge that nothing quite beats the taste of eating your freshly-dug produce on your dinner table the same evening, and now that spring has sprung, it is the perfect time to grow your own fruit and vegetables. Last year saw Britons tearing out the decking and turning their lawns into vegetable plots – and even more people are expected to do the same this year.

Oliver Locke, plant manager for Dobbies Garden World, Ashford says, “Whether you’re a gardening guru or a complete beginner, growing your own fruit and vegetables in your garden at home is easy. You don’t need to have your own allotment or a large garden as many fruit and vegetable varieties can be grown in small containers, window boxes and indoors too.”

Start by choosing what to grow – at Dobbies you’ll be spoilt for choice. Vegetables such as seed potatoes work well with limited space and can be grown in barrels or a potato sack.

Growing tomatoes from seeds or young plants is easy and there's a huge range of delicious varieties to choose from. Dobbies’ tomato plants come in a number of different varieties, from everyday favourites such as ‘Money Maker’ and ‘Gardener’s Delight’ - to more unusual ones like ‘Golden Sunrise.’

Home-grown herbs are also fantastic and are so easy to grow, as well as being both rewarding and cost effective. Choose cut-and-come-again varieties which can be harvested over a long period to give you a continuous supply throughout the year.

Finally if you’re feeling fruity, most fruits grow on trees or bushes, making them an easy addition to any garden; some varieties also grow well in

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smaller containers. At Dobbies you’ll find over 45 different varieties of fruit trees and over 35 different types of fruit bushes to suit all seasons.

Fruit crops generally require very little attention so you don’t need to dedicate hours of your time in order to get the results you want. Simply protect your crops from hungry birds and other little pests, whilst ensuring you feed and water them regularly.

If you need help and advice on growing your own, pop into your local Dobbies Garden World in Ashford or Gillingham. Each weekend, free talks called Garden Grow-How are given by Dobbies plant experts to educate on just how cheap and easy it is to grow your own fruit and veggies in your garden. Garden Grow-How talks provide customers opportunities to dig-in, get their hands dirty and generally just gain advice on how to grow perfect potatoes, tasty tomatoes, herbs and all other veggies from seed.

Growing your own fruit and vegetables is a fun activity to get children involved in too. The Little Seedlings Club, Dobbies’ free-to-join gardening club for children, is a great way to get them started. The Club meets at both Ashford and Gillingham Dobbies Garden World once a month, during which time the children take part in fun hands-on workshops and learn about plants, wildlife and the environment.

Bright Summer: For a bright summer, check out these striking garden lounge chairs. They come in four stylish Dobbies American colours: candy Lounge Chair Pink, £25 pink, bright blue, lime green and pure white. So comfortable you won’t want to leave the garden – and a bargain at £25 each.

Dobbies Zinc Flower Pots in Tray, Set Of 3 £9 (plants not included)

Linear: This set of three zinc flower pots is ideal for a minimalist style. The contemporary planter is great for growing herbs and housing colourful plants on your windowsill or patio.

And if all this shopping gets too much, find time to chill out in one of Dobbies popular restaurants with a cuppa and a scone, or pop into the Farm Food hall and find some local speciality produce to take home as a treat.

Get your garden summer ready: Beyond the garden, at Dobbies you’ll also discover plenty of ideas for your home – with everything from chic conservatory and garden furniture to stylish gift ideas and accessories.

Dobbies’ summer range has something to meet all your style needs.

For further information on products, advice and Grow Your Own events please visit: www.dobbies.com Or contact your local store: Dobbies Garden World, Ashford: 01233 619 360 Dobbies Garden World, Gillingham: 01634 224630

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FASHION

TICKTOCK

FROM CASUAL AND COLOURFUL TO THE MOST LUXURIOUS, HERE ARE SOME OF insideKENT’S FAVOURITE TIMEPIECES FOR 2013.

A SPLASH OF COLOUR For Him & Her: Ice-Watch Sili Forever Collection Add some colour to your life with a Sili Forever Ice-Watch. Available in four sizes and 10 vivid colours, you’re sure to find a style to suit your tastes.

Around £85 www.ice-watch.com

ON-TREND

For Him: Diesel DZ1090 The Diesel DZ1090 is an original, modern creation from commended designers Diesel. It combines a dark brown watch face on a genuine brown leather strap with contrasting silver baton indices with a prominent numerical 3. £88.99 www.menkind.co.uk

For Her: TACS Dice Strap Watch The TACS Dice range is inspired by those most durable of game accessories: dice.

Using a spectacular style of the purple moving disc technology, this watch tells the time in a unique way that is sure to gain the attentions of curious friends and strangers alike. £94.99 www.thewatchhut.co.uk

SIMPLE ELEGANCE

PURE LUXURY

For Her: Tissot Cera Ceramic Black Dial Cera is a girls’ name meaning ‘fiery ones’. That makes it the perfect tag for a watch made from ceramic – a material fired at a very high temperature to ensure its finish and robustness. The watch features ceramic bezels and bracelet links, and makes a simple yet confident statement. £350 www.thewatchhut.co.uk

For Her: TAG Heuer Carrera

For Him: Boccia Two-Tone Coloured Dial Bracelet Watch This classically elegant watch has a sleek black face paired with a ceramic and titanium strap – perfect for any gent looking for a modern timepiece with a classic feel. £225 www.johnlewis.com

The Tag Heuer Carrera ladies watch features a white mother of pearl diamond set dial housed in a 27mm stainless steel case with a diamond bezel. The scratchresistant sapphire crystal and the stainless steel bracelet makes this watch not only beautiful, but durable. £3,450 www.goldsmiths.co.uk For Him: Breitling Navitimer World Masters in both aesthetics and function, this handsome Breitling timepiece pairs stylish appearance with high-performance technology. A men's automatic watch from the Navitimer World collectiom, featuring a striking black dial with Breitling's signature chronograph feature. Set on a luxury, black calfskin leather strap with contrasting stitch detail. £4,710 www.ernestjones.co.uk

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FASHION

CLASSISINTHEAIR

A SOPHISTICATED STYLE IS BLOWING ON THE WIND – CAN YOU FEEL IT IN THE SPRING AIR? OXFORDS AND STRIPED TIES, BROGUES AND BLAZERS, DAINTY JEWELLERY WITH FEMININE DETAILS, SOFT DRESSES, AND CHIC HANDBAGS; THESE SUBTLE DETAILS ADD UP TO ONE BIG STATEMENT. READY FOR A SPECIAL EVENT OR JUST HEADING OUT FOR A REGULAR DAY? WHATEVER YOUR PLANS, WHEN YOU DRESS LIKE THIS, EVERYONE WILL THINK YOU ARE ALL DRESSED UP WITH SOMEWHERE TO GO. FOR THE LADIES… Bow Bag £18, Dunnes Stores Allegro Brights Hair Fork £22, Stone Bridge

Teal Levant Dress £120, Lagom

Watch £545, Rotary

Emerald Dress £27.99, Bonprix Agrippa £140, Pied A Terre

Radley Handbag, Fenwick

Sleeveless Beads Chiffon Crop Top in Black £17.99, Pilot

Isabelle Love Bracelet £6, River Island

Maeve Tassel Bag £199, Hobbs

Stitch Pockets Skinny Jean in Denim Dark £27, Pilot Heart Earrings £25, Martine Wester Radley Phone Case, Fenwick

Satire Boot £59.99, Rocket Dog

Black and White Bow Pump £25, Marks & Spencer

FOLLOW OUR FASHION EDITOR MOLLY NEZNANSKI GIL ON Twitter @lolachiffon FOR MORE FASHION UPDATES!

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Colour Block Dress £40, Vestry

Gold Style Snake Choker £17.95, What’s About Town?

Nude Envelope Clutch £15, Dunnes Stores

Mega Stone Clasp Bracelet £15, Accessorize

Hybrid Dress £85, Lovarni

Ammons £140, Pied A Terre

Heels £30, Marisota

Eternal Elegance Earrings £18, Glitzy Secrets 60s Love Bracelet £3, River Island

Cannes Skirt £89, FennWright Manson

Yellow Dress £45, Yumi

Court Shoes £50, very.co.uk

Slipper £19.99, Bonprix

Pink Blouse £25, Marisota

FOLLOW OUR FASHION EDITOR MOLLY NEZNANSKI GIL ON Twitter @lolachiffon FOR MORE FASHION UPDATES! www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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FASHION FOR THE GENTS… Savile Row Inspired Blazer by Richard James £149, Marks & Spencer

Holdall £69, Marks & Spencer

Bertie £115, Dune

Flat Cap £15, Marks & Spencer

Bertie Blackpool £65, Dune

Sartorial Tie £19.50, Marks & Spencer

Bureau Brogue Mix £95, G-Star Raw

Diamond Weave Straw Hat £15, Ashton Stripe Knitted Polo Shirt £25, Dusted Pink Slim Shorts £25, Berry Weller Pattern Scarf £20, River Island

Label J Oxford Shirt £25, Jacamo

FOLLOW OUR FASHION EDITOR MOLLY NEZNANSKI GIL ON Twitter @lolachiffon FOR MORE FASHION UPDATES!

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HEALTH+BEAUTY

at home home fitness at

THE DAYS ARE GETTING LONGER, FLOWERS ARE SPROUTING FROM THE GROUND AND THE SUN SEEMS TO BE MORE SOCIAL THESE DAYS. THIS CAN ONLY MEAN ONE THING: IT’S TIME TO START THINKING ABOUT YOUR BEACH BODY! HERE ARE SOME OF insideKENT’S FAVOURITE PRODUCTS FOR GETTING FIT, WITHOUT HAVING TO LEAVE THE COMFORT OF HOME.

JML Iron Total Gym Upper Body Workout Bar £11.25 www.amazon.co.uk

Zumba Fitness 2 for Wii £15.65 www.amazon.co.uk

Total Yoga Collection £13.01 www.amazon.co.uk

Reebok TrainPod £39.99 http://direct.reebokfitness.info Slendertone Abs £149.99 www.slendertone.com T-Sport Fitness Freestanding Bag £65.99 www.sweatband.com

Sole E55 Elliptical Trainer £1,299 www.solefitness.co.uk

Adidas Home Gym £499 www.sweatband.com

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F EN RE TR E Y

FRE E G FOR I FT

10 B F I RST RID ES

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T C OU HE T OP NTY’S W SUP EDD I N G PL I ERS

Papillon Therapy

HEALTH+BEAUTY

PAPILLON THERAPY IS A NEWLY ESTABLISHED COMPLIMENTARY THERAPY BUSINESS SET UP BY SANDIE MARTEL. Originally from France, and having studied English at university, Sandie moved to Kent some 14 years ago and has since worked in a variety of corporate roles before more recently training as a therapist.

“I decided I wanted a new career path and so I invested in retraining in the best therapeutic intervention techniques available, including Thought Field Therapy (TFT), Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Hypnosis.”

Now a fully certified therapist, Sandie can rid you of your emotional baggage by practicing a combination of proven psychological disciplines.

“I trained with the best to offer you the best.”

Having worked with victims of abuse and those affected by traumatic stress, Sandie can help you if you suffer from any of the following: anxiety, fears, phobias, stress, addictions and other negative emotion. “My aim is to set you free from your issue as quickly as possible and lend you the skills that enable you to keep it at bay.”

One of the quickest and most effective ways in which to get rid of your issue is by using Thought Field Therapy. TFT was first discovered in 1980

by Dr Roger Callahan PhD, one of America’s most experienced and distinguished clinical psychologists. Dr Callahan was dissatisfied with conventional therapy techniques as he found them to be both time consuming and largely ineffective. Instead, he became interested in applied Kinesiology, a technique that addresses the body’s energy meridian system and assists in the rapid and efficient diagnosis and treatment of negative emotions.

TFT is one of the most natural and non-invasive systems in which to eliminate the root cause of negative emotions and enhance the body’s own healing ability. This treatment is renowned for its immediate and dramatic results, with most individuals gain lasting relief with just one treatment.

TFT consists of tapping specific meridian points on the upper body whilst the individual focuses their thoughts on the emotional problem, in turn helping to clear the emotional block from the body’s energy system and restoring a mind and body balance. Most importantly, you do not have to believe in it for it to work.

Why not try it for yourself right now?

TFT is very easy to learn and can be selfadministered with no negative side effects - after all, the worst it can do is nothing at all. After a treatment with Sandie, you will be given a set of techniques to repeat at home, such as the below.

Simply try tapping on the side of your hand approximately 20 times (also called the karate spot), whilst thinking about the negative emotion you withhold. Not only will this release emotional tension but it will clear the mind, help with motivation, concentration, self-esteem and energy levels to name but a few benefits. The karate spot is the most important tapping point on the body. You can also use this technique with positive affirmations and better still, you can practice it as many times as you wish during the day.

Another service offered by Papillon Therapy is Future Life Progression, a technique developed

by Anne Jirsch, a professional psychic and author.

How would you feel if you could jump into the future right now and discover the solutions to your current problems?

Future Life Progression (FLP) can help you do just that. FLP works on the same basis as Past Life Regression in that it uses hypnosis; however instead of visualising the past, you jump into the future.

enables people to make better life choices as you must simply trust that you will see what you need to see at the right time.

To give you an example, one of Sandie’s clients used FLP to let go and move on from a past full of painful relationships and guilt, something her client had previously not been able to do.

Everybody is unique, but it is about using this tool in your own way to find the answers you are looking for.

Sandie works on a positive energy level so there is no need to worry about what you will see.

There is no point in seeing anything negative unless it is something you can change, but you can use FLP to look at alternative futures to find out which works best for you. However, ultimately, you will only see future events that you can influence now, in the present.

Contact Sandie for more information on TFT or FLP and to book your appointment. Sandie is available for private therapy consultations in Ashford and via Skype.

Please check the website for further information and updates on the services offered by Papillon Therapy.

Papillon Therapy 07826 824095 info@papillontherapy.co.uk www.papillontherapy.co.uk

Clients from many walks of life use FLP in different ways. It could be to help you make decisions at work, to help you find your soul mate or the right property… the possibilities are endless. FLP www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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HEALTH+BEAUTY

beauty bliss This spring, look your best with some of insideKENT’s favourite beauty products for 2013, from creating the perfect hairdo to making a statement with this season’s trendiest lip colour.

Lee Stafford Big Fat Lock and Rollers 12 extra large heated, tourmaline rollers for big, bouncy curls with no need for pins or clips! Lock and Roll rollers are so easy to use, and are perfect for creating big, big volume.

From around £38 Available from Argos, Very.co.uk, Superdrug, Tesco

Remington Pearl Pro Styler The Pearl Pro Styler creates waves full of volume. The professional doublebarrelled tong is easy to use by simply wrapping your hair around the barrels in a figure of 8 to create beautiful softly defined curls and waves. £14.99 http://uk.remington-europe.com

Eylure Evening Wear Ultra Glam Lashes For the vintage lover who wants silver screen glamour, Eylure Evening Wear lashes are the perfect all-rounder and one of the best-selling Eylure lashes ever. Enhancing the natural beauty of your eyes and suitable for all eye shapes, these lashes are ideal for regular wear or a special occasion. £5.06 www.eylure.co.uk

Dior Addict Extreme Lipstick Dior Addict fashion lipstick goes to the extreme with radiant colours, a perfect hold wet-look texture and audacious, sophisticated Dior styles.

Available in 12 shades of pure radiant pigment, from nudes to the boldest shades. £24 www.boots.com

Valene Cosmetics & Make-Up Beauty Case The Valene is a small attractive beauty case perfect for home use, or for mobile professionals who only want to take a small section of their kit out with them.

A stylish design that is lightweight but tough with strong chrome hinges and soft touch black handle. A lockable catch on top opens to reveal two hinged cantilever compartments with a deep compartment below. £36.95 www.beauty-boxes.com

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Holistic Essentials™ by Ayurveda Pura Holistic Essentials™ is an all natural, organic and complete premier spa range of cosmetics designed to suit the individual body-type-constitution (or Dosha) of the user. The products are hand-made according to Ayurvedic principles, always keeping the Ayurvedic principle in mind that ‘everything you put on your skin should be safe enough to put on your tongue.’

Prices vary www.ayurvedapura.com

FOR HIM HIM

Braun cruZer6 face This sleek three-in-one shaver, styler and trimmer turns any facial hair into a stylish beard, giving you a close shave, neat trim or defined edges.

Cordless and completely washable, the stylish cruZer 6 Face is the ideal shaver for active guys who are looking for a hassle-free tool. £46.49 www.amazon.co.uk

MAC Bronzing Powder A lightly frosted, tinted powder that gives skin sheer, natural colour effects and highlights. Ideal for enhancing a skin tone or to accent or strengthen a tan. Formulated to provide a smooth, even application on all skin types. £19 www.maccosmetics.co.uk

Molton Brown Re-Charge Black Pepper Bodywash Fiery black peppercorn oil with bergamot and oakmoss, this award-winning bodywash fires up the senses in an instant. Hot, spicy and rousing. £18 www.moltonbrown.co.uk

SensatioNail Gel Starter Kit The SensatioNail Deluxe Starter Kit contains all the tools you need for 10 beautiful gel polish manicures.

The kit includes the unique Pro 3060 LED Nail Lamp which has been specially designed to set and dry your favourite SensatioNail gel polish in no time. £60 www.sensationail.co.uk

The Bluebeards Revenge Luxury Shaving Cream

Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Instant Perfecting Makeup Clinique’s new Pore Refining Makeup is so lightweight that even close up you look believably poreless. Over time, the poreresurfacing technology makes clogging a non-issue. £23 www.clinique.co.uk

Do you endure the morning misery of tackling your ‘Blue Beard’ with inadequate products designed for the bum fluff brigade? Endure no more! This luxury shaving cream designed to actually reduce beard growth as well as tackle common shaving problems like razor rash and burn. £9.99 www.bluebeards-revenge.co.uk

Twinox Pocket Manicure Set The synthesis of outstanding workmanship by Zwilling J.A. Henckels combined with the best possible stainless steel makes this Twinox Pocket Manicure Set stand head and shoulders above the rest.

Includes nail scissors, sapphire nail file and tweezers in a luxury leather case. £82.50 http://shop-uk.zwilling.com

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HEALTH+BEAUTY

Great Skin For A Lifetime MR PAUL BANWELL, CONSULTANT PLASTIC SURGEON WITH NUFFIELD HEALTH TUNBRIDGE WELLS, DISCUSSES THE BENEFITS OF USING MEDICAL-GRADE SKINCARE (COSMECEUTICALS) FOR HEALTHY, BEAUTIFUL SKIN.

Most of us have the potential for healthy, vital skin. It is programmed into our DNA; but skin genetics are also heavily influenced by the environment. Sun, pollution and natural ageing play a part in damaging the skin’s genetic code, resulting in DNA replication errors that can lead to premature wrinkles, dryness and blotchy brown age spots. A good skincare regime can therefore help create a positive ‘microclimate’ for your skin, protecting it from DNA damage and assisting in repair to skin cells. The difficulty lies in finding products and routines that actually work. This is where your plastic surgeon can help.

these principles is the awareness that your skin has its own immune system that needs to function optimally for skin to look healthy and glowing.

The skin’s immune cells (so-called Langerhans Cells) can be overwhelmed by too much sun, leading to premature ageing and possibly skin cancer. Daily use of sunscreens is important, but medical experts are beginning to understand that this step alone may not be enough.

Increasingly, savvy skincare consumers are turning to their doctor for skincare advice and the best products. Mr Paul Banwell, a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital has been an early adopter of medical-grade skincare products for his patients.

“Skin is our presentation to the world and the first indicator of ageing. If you keep your skin in top condition, you look younger and fresher,” says Mr Banwell. “Good skincare is the logical first step in any anti-ageing regime. It isn’t difficult or complicated but you need to use the right active ingredients at the correct concentrations.”

In addition to a daily moisturiser containing sunscreen, most plastic surgeons and cosmetic doctors are now recommending the use of topical vitamin B3 (niacinamide) and vitamin C (serum).

Paul Banwell agrees. “Topical niacinamide has been shown to protect the skin’s immune cells, which may help prevent premature ageing and certain types of skin cancer. I recommend it to all my patients. I also prescribe topical vitamin C serum to be used every morning in conjunction with a sunscreen as it helps prevent skin damage caused by free radicals.” At night, the ideal routine appears to be cleansing the skin with a gentle cleanser, followed by a vitamin A preparation to help repair damaged DNA. A mild exfoliant containing alpha and beta hydroxy acids is also helpful at removing dry, damaged skin cells.

Most doctors agree the fundamentals of modern skincare involve protecting the skin during the day and repairing any damage at night. Underlying

So which skincare products are best? “All medical skincare products are good, but some are put together more cleverly than others,” says Mr

Banwell. “For my patients, I recommend a range from Australia. Their understanding of sun damage is very advanced, and despite the harsh climate, I observed that women in Australia using these products looked considerably younger than their counterparts here in the UK.”

For a complimentary skincare consultation with Mr Banwell’s team and advice on sun protection please phone 0845 2600 261 or contact Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital.

For more information see www.paulebanwell.com

For further information please contact Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital.

Please phone 01892 882688 or email tun.enq@nuffieldhealth.com www.nuffieldhealth.com/tunbridgewellshospital

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COVERSTORY

RACHEL WEISZ AT THE LOS ANGELES PREMIER OF OZ THE GREAT AND POWERFUL © BROADIMAGE/REX FEATURES

RACHEL WEISZ

{ENIGMATIC BEAUTY}

BY GEMMA DUNN

THE GIFTED ACTRESS RACHEL WEISZ IS QUITE SIMPLY A BREATH OF FRESH AIR WHEN IT COMES TO THE WORLD OF THE FEIGN CELEBRITY. ONE OF THE UK'S FINEST ACTRESSES TO DATE, SHE IS UNCOMPROMISING IN HER DISMISSAL OF THE MEDIA CIRCUS, INSTEAD OPTING TO SURROUND HERSELF WITH THOSE SHE LOVES AND CARES FOR. DIGNIFIED AND UNDERSTATED, YET UNDENIABLY BEAUTIFUL, IT SEEMS THIS ENGLISH ROSE HAS GOT HAPPINESS DOWN TO A TEE. WITH THIS IN MIND, IT'S HARDLY SURPRISING SHE HAS BAGGED HER VERY OWN JAMES BOND. JEALOUS, US!

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Born in 1970 to father, George, a Hungarian inventor, and mother, Edith, an Austrian psychoanalyst, Rachel Hannah Weisz grew up in London's Hampstead Garden suburb with her younger sister Minnie.

Weisz's parents fled to England prior to the outbreak of WWII in a bid to escape Nazi Germany. Whilst her father is of Jewish ancestry (his father was a secretary of the World Union of Jewish Students) her mother was raised as a Roman Catholic, only allegedly converting to Judaism in later life. Whether or not Weisz follows the same faith is often a topic of debate amongst the press, with reporters claiming she has identified herself with Jewish culture on numerous occasions when challenged. Despite the conclusion, it seems the concept of a Jewish leading lady remains one of intrigue in Hollywood.

Growing up, the Weisz household was one of ambition and intellectual debate. A pairing of individuals that valued art and self-expression, her parents encouraged her childhood aspirations and stimulated a desire amongst the two girls to hold opinion and worth—a mantra Weisz has subsequently practiced in both her work and life choices.

Many of Weisz's younger years were spent modelling after being spotted at 14 because of her dark features and English rose complexion.

It was in this same year that she gained public recognition after refusing a film role to star opposite Richard Gere in King David, an acknowledgement of her parents’ wishes.

Instead Weisz remained in education, achieving a good set of A-levels at the prestigious St Paul's Girls School in London and later studying for an English degree at Trinity Hall University, Cambridge.

It was during these studies that Weisz made her passion for acting public, appearing in a number of student productions and co-founding a student theatre group by the name of Talking Tongues.

No small feat, this venture went on to win a Guardian Student Drama Award at the 1991 Edinburgh Fringe Festival for its version of Neville Southall's Washbag.

After a handful of minor film and television roles the following year, Weisz continued her plight into acting and eventually landed a stage role in Sean Mathias' West End revival of Noel Coward's Design for Living. Admirably, her performance was deemed a success, securing her the London Critics' Circle Best Newcomer Award. With deserved recognition for her talents, it wasn't long before Weisz was offered the starring role in the BBC's period drama adaptation, Scarlet and Black alongside Ewan McGregor.

Having now starred in a prime time production, not to mention next to established well-known actors, it was inevitable Weisz would soon mark out her own territory and pave the way for her own successes. True to form, this opportunity came in the way of the 1996 romantic drama Stealing Beauty , a film directed by Academy Award-winner Bernardo Bertolucci. Despite much

of the focus understandably on protagonist Liv Tyler, Weisz gained credit for her supporting role and consequently put her name on the map— further securing her a major role in big budget thriller, the 1996 film Chain Reaction. Billed against the likes of Keanu Reeves and Morgan Freeman, this 26-year-old had established herself as a one of the most sought after leading ladies of the decade.

Weisz followed with a host of leads in smaller film productions, many of which were war dramas, perhaps taken in acknowledgement of her Jewish roots. It was in 1999 however, that she got her international breakthrough in Brendan Fraser's summer blockbuster The Mummy. It was playing the role of the vulnerable and somewhat comedic damsel in distress Evelyn Carnaham, that put her back on the Hollywood radar, despite the direction of the film not securing rave reviews. Dutifully, the cast returned two years later to star in the sequel The Mummy Returns, a production that grossed an estimated $433million worldwide.

On the heels of this phenomenal success, highin-demand Weisz had the pick of leading roles, first embarking on Darren Aronofsky's science fiction film The Fountain, before a catalogue of others. However, it was her major role in 2010 film The Whistleblower that ensured her artistic finery as an actor was seen to no pretence, as the intensity of this true story of human trafficking was championed in its debut at the Toronto Film Festival. More recently in 2011, she starred in Jim Sheridan's American psychological thriller The Dream House alongside Daniel Craig, and last year in action-thriller The Bourne Legacy.

Over the next four years Weisz played an array of lead characters across a number of genres, however romantic comedy-drama seemed her penchant, finding herself more often than not depicting the female object of affection.

Undoubtedly her most successful debut to date is Fernando Meirelles's 2005 film The Constant Gardener, an adaptation of a John le RACHEL WEISZ AND DANIEL CRAIG Carrè thriller. Whilst the film AT THE 70TH ANNUAL GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS © PATRICK MCMULLAN CO/SIPA USA/REX FEATURES was critically acclaimed, fittingly Weisz's portrayal of activist Tessa Quayle was rendered an astounding WHEN ASKED HOW SHE WAS ENJOYING success across the board, MARRIED LIFE WITH CRAIG, WEISZ REPLIED, earning her the Academy "I’M SORRY – I’M A NEWLYWED. I’M STILL A Award for Best Supporting BLUSHING BRIDE AND IT’S REALLY PRIVATE. I Actress, a Golden Globe CAN’T TELL YOU ANYTHING – COME BACK TO Award for Best Supporting ME LATER." Actress and the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in For all Weisz fans, you can look forward to seeing a Supporting Role. her as witch Evanora in the highly-anticipated Oz In addition, she was nominated for a BAFTA and the Great and Powerful, a prequel to The Wizard received the London Critics Circle Film Award of Oz that hits cinemas in March. for British Actress of the Year, the British Independent Film Award for Best Actress and Whilst Weisz's ability to captivate the viewer is the San Diego Film Critics' Society Award for incomparable, it is her sense of modesty and Best Supporting Actress. Attributed with such vulnerability off screen that generates likeability outstanding titles, Weisz was now at the forefront from all of her spectators. These traits indomitably of her game, receiving glowing reviews for her carry over into her personal life, which admirably 'charismatic' and 'exceptional' performances. In is relatively personal. celebration, she was invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and named Artist of the Year at the Los Angeles BAFTA ceremony.

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JEREMY RENNER AND RACHEL WEISZ FILMING 2012 FILM THE BOURNE LEGACY © UNIVERSAL/EVERETT/REX FEATURE

WHILST WEISZ'S ABILITY TO CAPTIVATE THE VIEWER IS INCOMPARABLE, IT IS HER SENSE OF MODESTY AND VULNERABILITY OFF SCREEN THAT GENERATES LIKEABILITY FROM ALL OF HER SPECTATORS For the most part of the last ten years, Weisz was in a relationship with American filmmaker and producer Darren Aronofsky, whom she began dating in the summer of 2001 after meeting at London's Almeida Theatre. The couple chose to reside in New York City, and by 2006 they were engaged and had bore their first and only son, Henry Chance. In 2010, the duo announced an amicable split, stating their continued friendship would allow them to place their son's best interests at the forefront.

In late 2010, Weisz began dating actor Daniel Craig, following reports the couple became close while filming The Dream House. Having worked together previously in Les Grandes Horizontales, a theatre production by Talking Tongues – the aforementioned student theatre group, Weisz claimed to still “enjoy working with him.” After a whirlwind romance, the pair married in a private New York ceremony in the summer of 2011, with just four guests in attendance—including Craig's daughter from a previous relationship and Weisz's young son Henry. The subdued and secret wedding affair was typical to form, as the pair now deemed one of Hollywood's top power couples, both shy away from media attention.

When asked how she was enjoying married life with Craig, Weisz replied, "I’m sorry – I’m a newlywed. I’m still a blushing bride and it’s really private. I can’t tell you anything – come back to me later."

There is something admirable about their mutual distaste for the world of showbiz parties and premieres. Whilst Craig has likened the act of self-promotion to "going to the dentist," and Weisz has referred to Hollywood as being "really toxic," it seems the potentiality of this pairing embracing their 'superstar' couple status, is an ideal of much disinterest. Again, a reality that is

quite refreshing in a day when as consumers, we feel we are owed a truth, an insight into every aspect of an individual’s life should they happen to be in the public eye.

In contrast, Weisz has served as a fashion muse to a number of designers, has appeared on the cover of almost every prestigious publication and regularly tops polls as one of the world's most beautiful women. So how does this translate into her everyday life in which she shuns the ideologies of an industry largely based on appearance and star persona? In the past, she has been famed for saying, "Botox should be banned for actors, as steroids are for sportsmen. Acting is all about expression; why would you want to iron out a frown?" Not sold on the surgical possibilities of 'La-La Land,' natural beauty is something Weisz has in abundance—despite her insistence that her good looks are down to her stylist, make-up artist and hairdresser being on hand.

At 42, she seems to defy age, a theory herself, she is now unsure on. More recently questioned on the ageing process and its depiction in Hollywood, she refused to rule out the possibility of a procedure completely, "Am I enjoying physically ageing? I don’t know anyone who would actually enjoy that. People say lines are a map of a person’s experiences. I can’t see the upside of it. I’m not thinking of having a face lift yet, ask me again in a decade!" I help but feel in ten years’ time, Weisz will remain radiant and charming and this will still be an unnecessary formation.

Aside from her acting and home life, Weisz is commendable in her bid to involve herself with charitable causes where and when she can. Just last year, she cleared out her wardrobe along with a host of other celebrities, in order to donate

items for the Dress for Success campaign – an organisation that provides interview and employment outfits to women on low incomes in a bid to boost their chances in the workplace.

She has also supported various funding projects ranging from the African Rainforest Conservancy and Worldwide Orphans Foundation to Cancer Research and the Paediatric Epilepsy Foundation.

One cause that holds particular resonance to Weisz is the Constant Gardener Trust, a fund set up in 2004 by the crew of the eponymous film to help aid the African communities they met whilst filming. As a star of the film, and patron of the charity, Weisz has been active in ensuring the progress of this trust is communicated, "I am thrilled by the progress that our very small, but very effective, charity has made. It is very heart-warming to see the progress of the trust's school in Loiyangalani and medical camp in Kibera." Admirably, for a star that doesn't pursue the limelight, she has used her profile here for the good of the cause—last year donating a floral brilliant-cut diamond pendant by Chatila to charity for auction.

From humble student beginnings to the outstanding recognition received for The Constant Gardener, it is irrefutable that Weisz has delivered a series of performances that have rightly earned her the accolades she so deserves, putting her on the map as one of Britain's greatest working actors to date. But perhaps more importantly, she is more in love and content than ever, proving that art really can imitate life in a bid for true happiness. So as she claims to 'enjoy being invisible,' whilst endearing, I can't help but think I would too if I was going home to the spy who loves me every night.

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COMPETITION

inideKENT COMPETITION

WIN AN EAT-SLEEP-RELAX PACKAGE FOR TWO AT ROWHILL GRANGE HOTEL

AN EVENING SPENT AT ROWHILL GRANGE HOTEL, NEAR DARTFORD IN KENT, PROMISES TO BE AN EVENING OF SHEER BLISS. THIS GLAMOROUS FOUR-STAR HOTEL OFFERS ONE OF THE MOST HEAVENLY OVERNIGHT, DINING AND SPA EXPERIENCES YOU WILL FIND IN THE KENT COUNTRYSIDE.

THE WINNER OF THIS FABULOUS PRIZE

WILL RECEIVE ROWHILL GRANGE’S NEW EAT – SLEEP – RELAX PACKAGE. THIS OVERNIGHT BREAK FOR TWO INCLUDES ONE EVENING IN A BOUTIQUE SUITE, DINNER IN EITHER RG’S RESTAURANT OR ELEMENTS BAR & LOUNGE*, A FULL ENGLISH BREAKFAST AND FULL USE OF THEIR UTOPIA SPA FACILITIES THROUGHOUT YOUR STAY.

You will stay in a boutique room, which is perfectly formed, rich in colour and comfortably stylish.

You can expect a wonderful night’s rest on their gorgeous beds finished with a handmade ViSpring mattress and dressed in the finest Egyptian cotton bed linen with deluxe duvets and plush pillows. Your room will also feature luxury extras including Temple Spa Products, mineral water and a selection of the latest magazines to help you relax.

As part of your package, you will have full access to the hotel’s Utopia Spa. The Grecian-themed spa has two floors of pools, bubble tubs, a sauna, steam rooms and relaxing waterfalls. Mood lighting and a unique design sets a relaxing ambience where your worries will melt away. You can also enjoy all leisure facilities including the spa’s gym or spin studio.

flows naturally into each dish and wherever possible local produce and suppliers are utilised.

After your restful and refreshing night’s sleep you can enjoy a delicious full English breakfast, served in their welcoming restaurant or if you prefer a lie in, why not order breakfast in bed?

This wonderful prize promises to leave you refreshingly relaxed. To find out more about Rowhill Grange Hotel’s NEW Eat-Sleep-Relax Package, visit www.rowhillgrange.co.uk.

For your chance to win, enter online at www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk/win *Prize includes dinner to the value of £30pp and a bottle of house wine

Rowhill Grange Hotel has a wealth of beautiful gardens were you can take a relaxing stroll or enjoy a drink on the terrace.

As the winner, you will also receive a delicious dinner in their Rosette Restaurant, RG’s. Popular among foodies, this wonderful restaurant is led by executive chef, Luke Davis. Menus are based on wholesome ingredients, inspiration and a genuine love of food. The ethos for greatness

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RECIPE

P E N N E

P A S T A

with Spinach, Gorgonzola, Pine Nuts, Broccoli and Mascarpone

Serves 4

Method:

• 50ml extra virgin olive oil

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until ‘al dente’.

• 500g penne pasta • 100g baby spinach

4. Add the cooked pasta to the vegetables and cheese and mix well. Season, drizzling with a little more extra virgin olive oil before serving.

2. In a sauté pan add half the olive oil and bring to a moderate heat. Add the purple sprouting and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until it starts to soften. Add the baby spinach and stir-fry to wilt.

• 50g toasted pinenuts • 100g purple sprouting • 100g mascarpone cheese • 100g gorgonzola cheese • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

3. Add the mascarpone, toasted pinenuts and gorgonzola. Heat through.

MICHAEL CAINES is one of Britain's most acclaimed chefs. AA Chef's Chef of the Year in 2007 and awarded an MBE in 2006 for services to the hospitality industry, Michael is an Operational Partner and Director of ABode Hotels and Michael Caines, in overall charge of all food and beverage operations throughout the fast-growing group.

He is also Executive Chef at Gidleigh Park, the acclaimed and prestigious country house hotel on the edge of Dartmoor at Chagford, Devon, where he has earned his reputation - as well as two Michelin stars - serving distinctive modern European cuisine utilising the finest local and regional produce and ingredients. In February 2009 he was also made Executive Chef at The Bath Priory, Bath, Gidleigh Park's sister establishment.

In 2000, he founded Michael Caines Restaurants and took over food and beverage operations at The Royal Clarence, Exeter. A chance encounter with Andrew Brownsword subsequently led to the creation of ABode Hotels.

Recent career highlights include cooking at 10 Downing Street for the Prime Minister and taking part in ‘The Great British Menu’, a competition broadcast on BBC2 television where contestants compete for the honour of cooking for the Queen’s 80th birthday.

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T: 01227 826677 E: Ecocanterbury@abodehotels.co.uk

Lunch Menu

Two courses for ONLY £14.50 Three courses for ONLY £19.50 Monday-Sunday 12-2.30pm

Upcoming Events

Mothering Sunday – 10th March 2013 3 courses, coffee and petit fours @£40.00 per person De Martino (Chilean wine dinner) – 20th March 2013 6 courses and wines to match @£65.00 per person Easter Sunday Lunch – 31st March 2013 3 courses, coffee and petit fours @£25.00 per person

Table reservations tel: 01227 826677 Ecocanterbury@abodehotels.co.uk www.michaelcaines.com

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FOOD+DRINK

Cooking

IN

Colour

Multi Coloured Silicone Whisk £4.95 www.almondart.com

Five Piece Measuring Spoon Set £3.50 www.bakestore.co.uk Silicone and Textile Oven Mitt £11.60 www.bakestore.co.uk

Le Creuset Three-Piece Stoneware Set £40.50 www.idealhomeshowshop.co.uk

Joseph Joseph Nest 9 Bowl and Measuring Cup Set £30 www.hurnandhurn.com

Kitchen Craft Colourworks Handheld Graters £9.45 www.amazon.co.uk

Colourworks Mini Tagine £8.95 www.johnbrownhardware.co.uk

Taylors Eye Witness 5-Piece Knife Set £24.99 www.gadgetgrotto.com

Joseph Joseph Elevate Kitchen Utensils Carousel £35 www.hurnandhurn.com

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Electronic Kitchen Scales £15.99 www.bakestore.co.uk

DINING IN

Style Champ Walnut Dining Set and 4 Cult Dining Chairs £2,999 www.fads.co.uk

Adhoc Electric Salt and Pepper Mill Set £70 www.amazon.co.uk

Denby ‘Monsoon Cosmic’ Dinnerware From £6 www.debenhams.com

LSA Moya Wine Glasses Set of two £30 www.occa-home.co.uk

Waterford Crystal Jasper Conran Strata Tumblers Set of two £56.25 www.johnlewis.com

Krenit Salad Bowl Set £39.75 www.normann-copenhagen.com

Judge Thermal Gravy Pot Around £15 www.judgecookware.co.uk

Udine 24-Piece Cutlery Set £298 shop.villeroy-boch.com

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FOOD+DRINK

START YOUR MORNING WITH A GREAT

Kent Breakfast

Mark Dance, KCC Cabinet member for Regeneration and Economic Development; Amanda Webb of Eggpie B&B, Sevenoaks Weald; Amanda Cottrell, Chairman of Visit Kent and Patron of Produced in Kent; and Neil and Wendy Burrows of Alkham Court B&B, Alkham Valley, Dover, celebrate the launch of Kent Breakfast

A great Kent Breakfast, served up by Zoe Warrilow of the Secret Garden Restaurant, Mersham Le Hatch, Ashford

Hotels, B&Bs, pubs, and cafés from across the county have signed up to promote the very best of Kentish produce in their breakfasts.

More than 30 businesses have joined Kent Breakfast, a campaign launched jointly by Visit Kent and Produced in Kent, to encourage the breakfast makers of the county to ensure that at least 60% of the ingredients used are sourced from within Kent.

“Kent has such a range of outstanding breakfast ingredients that many of our visitors enjoy without even realising,” said Sandra Matthews-Marsh, chief executive of Visit Kent. “We aim to change that by making it easy for businesses to market their own Kent Breakfast.

The participants have attended workshops where they were given advice on how to source local produce, extend seasonality of local items, cost and portion control and what can be included in place of more commonly used, non-Kent produce.

“There is plenty of evidence from similar schemes elsewhere in the UK that visitors really do seek out businesses using local produce on their menus and we hope that this will prove to be the case here.

Those who have signed up to the scheme and achieve the 60% locally-sourced target will be able to display Kent Breakfast marketing material, including window stickers, so customers know they are getting a taste of the county in the morning.

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“We are telling the world, ‘Come to Kent, get a great taste of the fruits of the Garden of England to start your day and then head off for an exciting day out at one of our famous attractions, or to do business.”

Stephanie Durling of Produced in Kent added, “Many of the businesses serving breakfast in

Kent are already using fantastic Kent produce and this campaign aims to encourage them all to shout about it and understand they have a genuine difference in their offering over their competitors.

“They should be telling the customers in their literature and have it all over their websites and this accreditation will help them do this.”

The Kent Breakfast campaign is funded through Defra’s Rural Development Programme for England.

For more information, visit www.visitkentbusiness.co.uk

www.chocolatedeli.com

For all your Easter chocs, including eggs, bunnies and gifts, come and see us at our new look shop and indulge yourself this holiday! X 153a High Street, Hythe, Kent CT21 5JL mail: info@chocolatedeli.com tel: 01303 267236

FOOD+DRINK

FOOD INTOLERANCES

Wheat Free vs Gluten Free

WITH AROUND 45% OF PEOPLE IN THE UK SUFFERING FROM FOOD INTOLERANCES, IT SEEMS ONLY TOO COMMON THAT A LARGE NUMBER OF US ARE RESORTING TO A DIET OVERHAUL IN A RELENTLESS BID TO DIMINISH PROBLEMS CAUSED BY FOOD SENSITIVITIES. THE TRUTH IS, THOSE OF US WITH A GENUINE ALLERGY ARE FEW AND FAR BETWEEN — CONSEQUENTLY THIS ACCOUNTS FOR JUST 2% OF THE POPULATION.

As two of the most prevalent, wheat and gluten allergies are regularly the most discussed, often in an attempt to establish just what a diagnosis of either would mean. In essence self-diagnosis is the biggest culprit, with the differentiation between suffering from coeliac disease, a wheat allergy or intolerance often one of the most frequent misconceptions. So how do you make this distinction and identify best practice to support the result?

The initial step must be to ensure you obtain the most accurate diagnosis, a feat achieved via a visit to your GP or local health practice. A serological blood test is the first line of investigation in identifying coeliac disease, followed by a biopsy to confirm the result (should the specific antibodies show up in your bloodstream). Prior to the test, it is important you are not following a gluten-free diet, as this poses the risk of an inaccurate result.

You may also be tested for iron, folic acid and vitamin B deficiencies due to the risk of poor digestion as a result of the complaint.

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Coeliac disease is caused by an auto-immune reaction to the protein gluten. Consuming only a small amount of gluten can damage the lining of the small intestine, therefore reducing the gut's ability to absorb the necessary nutrients from the food you are eating. If diagnosed, full commitment to a gluten-free diet is a necessity.

If instead you suspect you have a wheat allergy, your GP will refer you for a skin prick test, during which you are exposed to small amounts of various allergens. You may also be recommended for a blood test, a means to measure your immune system’s response to wheat by assessing the amount of immunoglobulin E antibodies in your bloodstream. A food allergy can cause a severe reaction — potentially lifethreatening, so it is imperative to remain reactive and have any concerns checked.

Alternatively, wheat intolerance can be much harder to diagnose as it is frequently confused with other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome. Furthermore, it is not uncommon to be intolerant to several foods, making it

increasingly difficult to pin point which ones are causing the problem.

Following diagnosis, you will need to look at eliminating the foods you are adverse to from your diet. Only then will you see an improvement, and any damage caused by consuming these foods will be reversed. Many people find it difficult to change their eating habits, especially when you find yourself excluded from many of the foods that you have enjoyed for years, but removing the offending provisions from your diet doesn't have to bear as much disruption as you may have first anticipated.

As the food sector has become more accustomed to providing produce tailored to specific dietary needs, a gluten- or wheat-free regime in 2013 has little, if any, limitation. What once consisted of a handful of food manufacturers and specific online sites catering to such requirements has now exploded into a mass of producers, and the commitment of a dedicated 'free from' aisle in the majority of all major supermarket chains.

Undoubtedly the desire to retain a clientele from consumers who suffer at the hands of a food allergy or intolerance has spurred the market on, with many of the chains releasing their own lines alongside those that have already established themselves in this same sector. With thousands of products now available in substitution, there is no need for you to compromise on either taste or quality.

The most challenging of tasks is often mastering the list of foods that contain gluten or wheat, and ensuring you are well aware of its labelling. This can often be an overwhelming and somewhat confusing process, but there is an abundance of help and support out there to ease your adaptation.

Uncertain as to just what the warning signs are? You can identify the most common problems associated with wheat and gluten allergies on the checklist below.

Only by isolating your symptoms will you achieve the resolve you require.

Symptoms of Coeliac Disease • Sudden or unexplained weight loss • Reoccurring abdominal pain • Long-term chronic diarrhoea • Unexplained fatigue, potential anaemia • Persistent sick feeling and being sick • Painful cramping and bloating Symptoms of a Wheat Allergy • Painful stomach after consumption • Vomiting, nausea and cramps • Bad digestion, often leading to constipation • Irritation and swelling of the throat and mouth • Problematic breathing, due to blockage of food pipe • Development of rashes and itching Symptoms of Wheat Intolerance • Uncomfortable bloated stomach • Sore stomach, flatulence • Diarrhoea or constipation • Noticeable fatigue • Development of eczema • Headaches and general body aches

This may all feel slightly overwhelming but for as many foods as there are to avoid, there are substitutes available to purchase in good supermarkets, health food shops or even directly from the manufacturer. It's also worth noting, if you are diagnosed with coeliac disease you may be entitled to subsidised food on prescription.

Despite a wealth of gluten-free and wheat-free brands and products on the shelves, avoiding the two altogether is much easier said than done. With such an impact on your nutritional intake, it is imperative you are aware of the fundamental foods that you will need to steer clear of.

Use the following as a guide to the real basic no-nos in a gluten- and wheat-free diet.

You will also need to avoid products that contain any of the following ingredients: • Wheat germ • Flour • Soy sauce • Malt • Whole grain / multi-grain • Spelt • Vegetable starch • Ketchup

Wheat-Free Diet No-Nos • Biscuits / cookies • Cakes / muffins • Cereal • All types of bread • Pasta • Pizza • Pre-packaged soup • Lager / beer

Unless the packaging is labelled 'gluten-free’, you will need to make a refined selection in order avoid the following ingredients: • Kamut • Semolina • Spelt • Bulgar • Durum flour • Triticale • Modified food starch • Vegetable starch

Gluten-Free Diet No-Nos • Barley / malt • Rye • Wheat (see wheat avoidance foods) • French fries • Gravies • Processed meats • Oats • Couscous

Baked to Taste: Chocolate Fudge Cake (gluten- and wheat-free) www.bakedtotaste.co.uk Ener-G Foods: Vanilla Cookies (gluten- and wheat-free) www.ener-g.com

With such an extensive range available, it is hard to know where to go and what to try — so in a bid to save some precious planning minutes, I have whittled down several of the key gluten-free and wheat-free foods for you.

Pizza / Pasta: Hope is not lost; there are many gluten- and wheat-free pastas and pizza bases available to try.

Bread: Avoiding bread is often one of the biggest issues associated with such diets. Try one of these fantastic wheat- and gluten-free alternatives, or why not bake your own using flour made from rice, buckwheat or quinoa?

Doves Farm: Organic Brown Pasta (gluten- and wheat-free) www.dovesfarm.co.uk Glutafin's: Pizza Base (gluten- and wheat-free) www.glutafin.co.uk Glutafin Pizza Bases

Genius' Sliced Range

Genius: Seeded Bread Loaf (gluten- and wheat-free) www.geniusglutenfree.com Warburtons: 'Newburn Bakehouse' Brown Rolls (gluten- and wheat-free) www.warburtons.co.uk

Baked to Taste Chocolate Fudge Cake

Cakes / Biscuits: The majority of cakes and biscuits contain both gluten and wheat, so if you have a sweet tooth they're particularly difficult to eliminate.

Luckily, there are some brilliant substitutes.

Sauces: Surprisingly, lots of our favourite sauces contain gluten and wheat, with one of the most commonly avoided, soy sauce. Use tamari sauce as a great alternative.

Meridian Foods: Tamari Soy Sauce and Green Thai Sauce (both gluten- and wheat-free) www.meridianfoods.co.uk Meridian Foods Green Thai Sauce

Following a gluten- and wheat-free diet is easy when you know how, it's just about establishing the ground rules and implementing them in to your everyday life until it soon becomes habitual. Good luck!

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FOOD+DRINK

SQUIRES SQUIRES

R EESSTTAAUU R RR AN A TN T

at Bridgewood at Bridgewood Manor Manor

BY GREG BY GREG BETTLES BETTLES

NESTLED AWAY IN WALDERSLADE WOODS JUST OUTSIDE OF CHATHAM IS BRIDGEWOOD MANOR – A 4-STAR HOTEL THAT EPITOMISES LUXURY. UNFORTUNATELY FOR ME I WAS NOT TO EMBARK ON A LOVELY SPA WEEKEND; I WAS IN FOR A TREAT OF A DIFFERENT KIND IN THE HOTEL’S CHARMING SQUIRES RESTAURANT. I was taken aback at the charm of the restaurant, with its detailed coving and low-level lighting, combined with soft background music; the ambiance was calm and very relaxed.

The new spring menu, which incorporates as many fresh ingredients as possible, looked exceptional; it actually created a dilemma between me and my dining companion as to who was going to have what. My partner chose the crab cake, which was served with celeriac remoulade, rocket and radish salad. I went for Squires’ pork pie, which consisted of ham hock served with pickled vegetables and cheese straws.

Both dishes were a culinary delight; the crab cake was delicate and the celeriac salad complimented the dish well. The pork pie was presented excellently and tasted delicious, and the pickled vegetables and cheese straws added

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a lovely twist to the dish. The meat itself was tasty and fresh – a clever dish that left me delighted not just because it was a joy to eat, but because of how the dish had been cleverly constructed.

As we waited for our main courses, I noticed that the restaurant was filled with a range diners of all ages and genders; I felt that this showcased just how Squires had something for everyone.

My partner chose the duck breast for her main, which consisted of hickory-smoked duck, duckpressed duck potato, spring greens and duck jus. I went for lamb rump served with fondant potatoes, peas à la Francaise and wilted gem lettuce. Both dishes were cooked to utter perfection; the duck was tender and juicy and my partner commented on how ‘different’ the meal was, but also how it was exceptionally flavourful.

My lamb, which was served medium-well, was delicious. I love of fondant potatoes, so when I saw this on the menu my taste buds nearly jumped out of my mouth with excitement, and these didn’t disappoint. My knife cut through the lamb effortlessly; it was so tender and the taste was rich and matched sublimely with the luxurious taste of the fondant potatoes. The dish was accompanied by peas à la Francaise. Though something I’d never tried, the peas gave the dish a bit of interest and texture and made a great impact on the meal. Overall I felt the main course was a resounding success.

I love a dessert. I was brought up to love desserts of all sorts, and The Squires offers an array of sweet confections to impress any dessert lover (including me). In fact, with compliments from the chef we received three puddings: Ginger sponge, mango & passion fruit mille feuille and salted caramel chocolate tart. The chocolate tart was served with creamy vanilla ice cream and combined the contrasting but delicious tastes of sweet and salty.

The third dessert turned out to be a little hidden gem. The mango & passion fruit mille feuille included a refreshing mango jelly that sat on a layer of buttery and flaky pastry – an exotic and delightful end to our meal.

After we had finished, chef Glen Stokford came out and introduced himself and he spoke about the spring menu and how he has tried to incorporate as many fresh seasonal ingredients as possible into his menu. Glen spoke with passion, and we could clearly see this passion has gone into the new spring menu. Squires Restaurant at Bridgewood Manor comes highly recommended; in fact, when you book, tell them insideKENT Magazine sent you.

Squires Restaurant at Bridgewood Manor Walderslade Woods Chatham ME5 9AX 01634 201333 www.qhotels.co.uk/hotels/bridgewoodmanor-chatham-kent

The ginger sponge was the heaviest out of all three desserts, and was made up of a caramelised pineapple and toffee sauce. The ginger was not too over powering and the toffee sauce reduced the heaviness of the dessert by infusing a pleasant sweetness.

Bridgewood Manor Upcoming Events March Mothers Day Lunch Sunday 10th March Treat Mum to a delicious four-course carvery lunch with all the trimmings. Let us do all the cooking and the washing up too whilst you enjoy family time.

£20.95 per person £9.95 per child between 3 and 12 years, children under 3 eat free

Bookings available at 12.30pm - 5.30pm.

Tables available for our a la carte menu from 7.00pm

The Comedy Club Friday 29th March Two-course supper and comedy.

Residential from £110 for two people.

£24.50 per person

overnig ht ac packag commodatio es n dinner including availab le.

Easter Sunday Lunch Wedding Fayre & Showcase

Sunday 31st March

Sunday 24th March

Join us for a traditional four-course carvery perfect for all of the family.

Join us from 11.00am until 3.30pm and view our fantastic four-star facilities. Be inspired by our wide variety of recommended local suppliers and meet our experienced Wedding Coordinator who will be on hand to discuss your special day. Free entry.

£18.95 per person £9.95 per child between 3 and 12 years, children under 3 eat free

To find out more or to book call 01634 201333 or email bridgewoodmanorevents@QHotels.co.uk www.QHotels.co.uk

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FOOD+DRINK

Wine

FROM YOUR

Garden

THE GARDEN OF ENGLAND IS HOME TO SOME INCREDIBLE FOOD AND DRINK, WITH KENTPRODUCED WINES BEING ONE OF THE COUNTY’S MOST IMPRESSIVE OFFERINGS. WITH SPRING JUST AROUND THE CORNER AND WARMER DAYS GUARANTEED, WHY NOT STOCK UP ON SOME OF KENT’S BEST WHITES AND ROSÉS, FOR THOSE TIMES WHEN A CRISP GLASS OF CHILLED VINO IS JUST WHAT THE DOCTOR ORDERED.

The Mount Vineyard Sparkling Rosé 2009

Terlingham Sparkling White 2009

A sophisticated, pale in colour, dry and crisp sparkling wine. It is elegant to look at, to nose and to taste. SILVER International Wine and Spirit Competition 2012; SILVER English and Welsh Wine of the Year Competition 2012. £23 www.themountvineyard.co.uk

It's the colour of light straw and white gold, with a nose of strawberries and cream (how exceptionally fortunate for an English Wine!). The palate is perfectly balanced and reflects the strawberries and cream. It has a wonderful zesty and lingering finish – a perfectly balanced wine. £16.65 www.terlinghamvineyard.co.uk

Hush Heath Balfour Brut Rosé The award-winning Balfour Brut Rosé is made using three classic Champagne grape varieties – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. This exquisite rosé has been called “England’s most exclusive Pink Fizz.” £35.99 www.hushheath.com

Meopham Valley Sparkling Brut 2008 Announced in November 2012 - this wine was adjudged one of the 30 Best Sparkling Wines in the World. Awarded a Gold Medal at the UKVA Competition 2012, this wine is made in the traditional method from Reichensteiner grapes grown organically. The Sparkling Brut is a fine example of the versatility of this grape when grown in England and how it lends itself to quality sparkling wine. £23.50 www.meophamvalleyvineyard.co.uk

Biddenden Vineyards Ortega 2011 Biddenden Ortega is the wine for which the vineyard is best known, with half the vineyard being planted with this variety. A medium, full fruit white wine, with a distinctive fragrance and good acidity. Biddenden Ortega has won numerous awards for the vineyard, including English Wine of the Year and Best Kent Wine. £10.10 www.biddendenvineyards.com

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Harbourne Sunset Pink Medium 2011 Harbourne Sunset Pink has a lovely flavour and a flowery bouquet. A smooth, soft and curranty medium rosé with a brilliant sunset pink glow!

Perfect chilled by itself. £8.50 www.harbournevineyard.co.uk

FOOD+DRINK FAULTLESS DINING AT

THE KINGS ARMS, MEOPHAM OVERLOOKING THE OLD MEOPHAM CRICKET GREEN, THE HIGHLY RECOMMENDED KINGS ARMS RESONATES IN THE CHARM OF THE VILLAGE LOCAL, YET OFFERS SO MUCH MORE. SINCE EXECUTIVE HEAD CHEFS AND CO-OWNERS PETER BRENNAN AND JACK WILKINSON TOOK OVER 13 MONTHS AGO, THE KINGS ARMS HAS EXCELLED IN ITS UNYIELDING BID TO RETAIN A DISTINCT SENSE OF LOCALITY, ALONGSIDE AN IRREFUTABLE REPUTATION FOR CULINARY BRILLIANCE. BY GEMMA DUNN

With this destination restaurant right on our Kent doorstep, what better way to test such credentials than to experience it for yourself.

On arrival, my guest and I were welcomed by an attentive and friendly team before being shown to our table — an intimate setting in view of a superb open fireplace. With considered seating and fine wine in hand, we set about choosing our first course. Notably, whether your visit is pleasure or occasion specific, there is a menu to cater for all. On this instance, we selected from the à la carte menu.

After whittling the choices down, it was two tantalising seafood options that took precedence in the starter stakes. As I opted for salmon and trout terrine, my guest chose tempura tiger prawns, accompanied with a chilli mayonnaise.

The French-inspired terrine was both hearty and full of flavour, and whilst the salmon was delicate, the trout added a thickness which obtained the desired coarse consistency of the established terrine. Grilled ciabatta bread and a side salad proved to be the perfect accompaniment.

In concordance, the tempura prawns were equally as delicious. Succulent and fresh, the prawn to ultra-light batter ratio was ideal. In addition, the distinctive chilli-infused mayonnaise offered a subtle kick, without the risk of overpowering.

Next up, the mains did little to falter from the restaurant's unwavering desire to champion local produce. My main course of choice comprised of pepper crusted sirloin of beef, served with horseradish mashed potato, spinach and bacon and a herb Yorkshire pudding.

Locally sourced from Kent's Harvel Farm Shop, the pepper-crusted sirloin of beef was cooked to pink perfection; a rich and tender cut that melted in the mouth. A punchy side of horseradish mash spiced up an otherwise generic side, creating a delectable tang, which whilst prominent, was not overbearing. Furthermore,

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the delicious herby Yorkshire pudding teamed with bacon and spinach bestowed an indulgent twist on the traditional grandeur of the Sunday roast.

Lemon and thyme roasted corn-fed chicken breast was my guest's choice, served with a potato and chive rosti, pak choi and a red pepper and pine-nut salsa. Uncompromising in taste, the chicken was mouth-wateringly moist with an unobtrusive lemon infusion, whilst the potato rosti epitomised precision, combining a golden, crisp exterior with a soft potato centre.

Injecting colour into the mix, the palatable blend of red pepper and pine-nut salsa proved a huge hit, both sweet and refreshing in its rationale.

Impressed with the creativity and punctilious attention to detail, it seemed fitting the third and final course would set out to impress.

So with an undefeated attitude and a penchant for pudding, it was back to the menu to choose one of the fabulous homemade desserts.

My chocolate brioche bread and butter pudding did not disappoint. Served with silky smooth homemade custard, the warm and soft buttery brioche proved to be the idyllic sweet treat. Alternatively, the lighter of the two was the panna cotta, served with blood orange compote.

Homely, yet elegant, the delicate and creamy texture detracted from the acidic tendency of the compote, making for a powerful symphony of flavours.

Three courses later, it is evident just how reactive the menu is in incorporating the use of

fresh and seasonal-driven produce. Refined cooking techniques and a passion for good food is undeniably palpable at The Kings Arms, in addition to a well-planned, inventive menu that is underpinned by the choice to champion wellsourced local produce.

Combine Peter and Jack's culinary expertise with the ambience and warmth of the restaurant and you have a winning combination.

In terms of setting, the build still maintains its traditional heritage feel, with original oak beams and wood-burning fireplaces. However, in a nod to its reestablishment as a fine dining restaurant, the furnishing has been modernised and mood lighting enhanced, making for a more homely environment. Furthermore, the photographic artwork which adorns the walls adopts a more unique and personable tone.

Fitting for any event, be it a special occasion or you simply fancy a night off from cooking, The Kings Arms is more than accommodating. In addition, there is a separate function room available for weddings, christenings or any such occasion – a popular choice based on the testimonials of those who have enjoyed this booking previously.

Reputable for offering both great wine and food, the success this restaurant has achieved is both a testament to the culinary expertise of Peter and Jack, but also the obliging team and refreshing service they offer. Everyone likes a success story, and for me The Kings Arms is just that.

The Kings Arms Restaurant Wrotham Road Meopham Green DA13 0QB 01474 813323 www.kingsarmsmeopham.co.uk

The Kings Head Wye eat - drink - stay

Now open

after major refurbishment Contemporary menu combining local produce with world flavours Nine brand new en-suite guest rooms Open all day - every day

Do you want to learn how to make great tasting food that will also make you look and feel great?

L SPECIA Y UCTOR INTROEDOF ONLY Per PRIC Person

£65 ited time

(For a lim

Church Street, Wye, Ashford, Kent, TN25 5BN 01233 812418 info@kingsheadwye.com - www.kingsheadwye.com

only)

Join me to learn how to introduce delicious and healthy meals into your diet. I will teach you simple, easy and quick recipes that the whole family can enjoy.

Using only the freshest, natural, wholegrain ingredients you will learn how easy it is to inject some goodness into your lifestyle without compromising on taste.

At each class we will prepare and cook three courses of deliciously healthy food in a relaxed and fun environment. I will demonstrate the preparation and cooking of each dish and if you so wish you can join in or you can just sit back and relax, watch and most importantly taste! Once the food is ready you will then be able to sit back and tuck in!

FOR MORE DETAILS Email: emshealthykitch@gmail.com • Call Emily on 07730 882033.

Visit: www.mydeliciouslyhealthykitchen.blogspot.com

An intimate venue nestled on the Bay of Sandwich, offering stunning views across the English Channel and over to the White Cliffs of Ramsgate with dining in our award winning two rosette restaurant.

The Brasserie on the Bay is now available for Lunch Come and try our 2 Course Table d’hôte lunch menu from £12.50 or 3 Courses from £16.50.

Available Monday to Saturday from 12.00pm Visit www.thelodgeatprinces.co.uk or call +44 (0) 1304 897824 Email: reservations@thelodgeatprinces.co.uk

FOOD+DRINK

My Deliciously Healthy Kitchen SOMETIMES YOU NEED A BIT OF INSPIRATION IN THE KITCHEN, EH? YOU MAY WANT TO EAT A HEALTHIER DIET BUT STILL WANT TO ENJOY GREAT FOOD. OR MAYBE YOU FEEL A BIT INTIMIDATED

BY COOKING WITH DIFFERENT INGREDIENTS, AND WOULD LIKE TO LEARN SOME SIMPLE, EASY RECIPES THAT YOU CAN COOK FROM SCRATCH WITHOUT AN INGREDIENTS LISTS AS LONG AS YOUR ARM. AND WOULDN’T IT BE NICE TO GET SOME RECIPE INSPIRATION WITHOUT ALL THOSE HARDTO-FIND INGREDIENTS THAT SEEM TO BE INCLUDED IN ALL OF THE RECIPES WE ARE BOMBARDED WITH? IT CAN BECOME A DAUNTING TASK TRYING OUT NEW THINGS.

Well help is on hand. Emily Hawkes has set up My Deliciously Healthy Kitchen and she will be offering cookery classes where you can go along and learn how to make simple, easy, quick and deliciously healthy food. Using only the freshest, natural, wholegrain ingredients you will learn how easy it is to inject some goodness into your lifestyle without compromising on taste. She will also share some useful tips for reducing food waste as well as advice on shopping for seasonal, local produce whilst keeping an eye on your shopping budget.

The classes cater for vegetarians, vegans and meat eaters and will be demonstration-led with the option to join in and help if you fancy or you can sit back and relax, take notes and most importantly have a taste. Then of course you will be able to sit down and enjoy the food!

Each month the dishes being taught will change in accordance with what is in season and will showcase what tastes best. The classes will be for anyone who wants to learn how to make more interesting, flavoursome dishes and for anyone who is a little afraid of the kitchen and wants to learn some easy and quick recipes that will please the whole family. The classes are

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perfect for those who want to embrace a healthier, more natural approach to their diet; in fact they are for anyone who fancies coming along and tasting some deliciously healthy food!

There is a maximum of 10 people in each class so that they are small and intimate. There is never any pressure to do anything if you do not want to and each class is relaxed, friendly and fun.

The experience is more about enjoying yourself and having a great day out with some friends or family, not feeling inadequate or out of your comfort zone.

The classes are held in and around Canterbury with some at Witherdens Hall, which is a lovely airy, relaxing, comforting space in the heart of the Kent countryside. The classes aren’t held in scary professional kitchens, as Emily is not a scary professional (her words!). The emphasis is all about home cooking in chic, homely kitchens where you can feel at ease and enjoy deliciously healthy food.

At the end of each class you leave armed with the recipes for the dishes taught in the class and a healthy eating guide to take away with you, and most importantly, the confidence to recreate the dishes at home for your loved ones.

Emily also offers a bespoke menu planning and a personal shopping service where she can help individuals or families engage in a healthier diet.

There is also the opportunity to book My Deliciously Healthy Kitchen for team building cookery classes for your work place. You can also give the gift of healthy food and recipe inspiration to anyone looking to incorporate fresh, seasonal produce into their diet, with a My Deliciously Healthy Kitchen gift voucher, available from the website.

For lots of deliciously healthy recipes, advice on a fresh, natural seasonal diet or to book a class, visit www.mydeliciouslyhealthykitchen.co.uk.

You can also follow @emshealthykitch on Twitter for up-to-the-minute information.

FOOD+DRINK

TASTE OF KENT AWARDS

Top Three Unveiled

THE THREE TOP NAMES IN EACH OF THE TASTE OF KENT AWARDS CATEGORIES HAVE BEEN REVEALED AHEAD OF THE GLITTERING AWARDS DINNER AT THE MERCURE GREAT DANES HOTEL, HOLLINGBOURNE, ON FRIDAY 8TH MARCH. The Produced in Kent inspired awards attracted almost 14,500 votes from the general public, in the first round of voting, which amounted to an impressive 26% increase as consumers were keen to nominate Kent’s food and drink heroes. Voting in four of the categories proved so vibrant that the increase in the public vote rose by over 50% in Kent Butcher or Meat Producer of the Year, Best Kentish Cider or Perry, Best Kentish Wine and Best Fishmonger of the Year.

Edwyn Martyn, Manager of Produced in Kent, the organisation behind the Taste of Kent Awards said, “Whilst we all might be tightening our financial belts in 2013, eating and drinking locally produced food and drink and enjoying quality food retail and dining out experiences in Kent remains a top priority in our county. It’s clear from the leap in votes that consumers are putting our food and drink heroes at the top of the menu and want to see their excellence rewarded via the prestigious Taste of Kent Awards. The awards have been made possible by the overall sponsorship of Vertex Law, together with the backing of 15 other category sponsors and we would like to thank them all for their tremendous support.”

James Beatton, Head of the Corporate Team at Kings Hill based Vertex Law, added, “As food industry specialists we have a lot of dealings with all sections of the supply chain in Kent from growers and producers through to shops and restaurants. We know from first-hand experience the wealth of excellence that the county offers and are delighted to be supporting the Taste of Kent Awards. The quality of the businesses in this sector is exceptional.”

In addition to Vertex Law, first time sponsorship from Shopper Anonymous, BTF Partnership and Chapmans of Sevenoaks adds to a loyal list of Taste of Kent Awards backers that include Kent Downs and High Weald AONB for the second year of the special award. Biddenden Vineyards, Chapel Down Winery, Hadlow College, Kent County Council, Kent Life, kff (Kent Frozen Foods), NFU Mutual, Opies, sff (Stephen’s Fresh Foods), Wilkins Kennedy, Shepherd Neame and Visit Kent. The Taste of Kent Awards is also delighted to have the media support of ourselves, insideKENT, as well as BBC Radio Kent and Archant KOS Media.

The 2013 awards have seen a number of food and drink businesses making the top three in their award categories for the first time. These include The Globe & Rainbow in Kilndown in the Opies sponsored Kent Dining Pub of the Year; Canterbury-based Wantsum Brewery with its Dynamo brew in the Best Kentish Beer category; Farmer Palmer from Egerton in the sff (Stephens Fresh Foods) sponsored Kent Butcher or Meat producer of the Year; Little Stour Orchard of Margate in the Kent County Council sponsored Best Kent Juice Producer and Thackeray’s in the Visit Kent sponsored category Kent Restaurant of the Year.

It could also be two years in a row for four of 2012’s winners with Biddenden Vineyards, Chapel Down, Mama Feelgoods and Ramsgate Brewery all in contention for a 2013 award.

TASTE OF KENT AWARDS 2013 TOP THREE Kent Butcher or Meat Producer of the Year Farmer Palmer Godmersham Game SW Doughty

Kent Local Food Retailer of the Year Macknade Fine Foods Mama Feelgoods Quex Barn

Kent Farmers’ Market of the Year Cliftonville Elm Court Tonbridge

Best Kentish Beer Curious Brew – Chapel Down Dynamo – Wantsum Brewery Gadds’ No 3 – Ramsgate Brewery

Kent Fishmonger of the Year Eddie Gilberts Sankey’s The Seafood Centre

Best Kentish Wine Flint Dry – Chapel Down Winery Ortega – Biddenden Vineyards Pinot Gris 2011 – Meopham Valley Vineyard

Kent Artisan Food Producer of the Year The Cheesemakers of Canterbury Kent Fine Foods Simply Ice Cream

Kent Food, Farming and Landscape Award Moor Organics Meopham Valley Vineyard Seasalter Lamb Great Broxhall Farm Woodside Farm Winterdale Cheesemakers

Best Kentish Cider or Perry Biddenden Strong Kentish Cider – Biddenden Vineyards Blushing Old Wife – Rough Old Wife Duddas Tun – Pine Trees

Kent Restaurant of the Year The Ambrette Elvey Farm Thackeray’s

Best Kent Juice Producer Biddenden Vineyards Little Stour Orchard Pine Trees Farm

NEXT ISSUE: Check out the next issue of insideKENT for a full pictorial review of all the winners and the awards evening.

Kent Dining Pub of the Year The George Inn The Globe & Rainbow The Halfway House

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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FOOD+DRINK

BACK ON THE CULINARY MAP

Royal Dining at

EASTWELL MANOR b y

A d a m

R e a d y

MOST OF MY FELLOW KENT RESIDENTS HAVE COME ACROSS EASTWELL MANOR IN THEIR TIME; IT BEING ONE OF THE COUNTY’S MOST BEAUTIFUL TREASURES. THE MANOR HOUSE—PARTS OF WHICH DATE BACK TO THE NORMAN CONQUEST—IS SET IN A BEAUTIFUL PART OF THE NORTH DOWNS JUST OUTSIDE OF ASHFORD NEAR THE PICTURESQUE CRICKET GREEN OF BOUGHTON ALUPH.

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As we left the main road and drove through the gates, the magnificence that is Eastwell Manor came into sight. I was brimming with excitement, as thoughts of dining like a member of royalty filled my mind.

My guests and I entered the manor through a heavy wooden door set in a majestic courtyard.

The smell of a wood-burning fireplace welcomed us on this cold night, and a friendly member of staff took us into the wood-cladded bar. Once we were seated, the new food & beverage manager Richard Shaw welcomed us each individually with a glass of bubby, and we browsed the restaurant menus with a lovely selection of canapés on hand.

There was no pressure to order as we enjoyed our drinks whilst taking in the royal feeling Eastwell Manor gives you. The menu was full of intriguing selections cooked with fresh produce by executive chef Neil Wiggins and his team. We ordered our meals and when ready, we were taken into the Manor Restaurant. The restaurant is elegantly and classically decorated (as one would expect), and boasts views onto the sprawling grounds.

We were all pleasantly surprised to see a pianist playing a range of classical and jazz piano numbers throughout the evening.

The restaurant was full of diners, which for a weeknight I was most surprised – illustrating the popularity of this fine establishment. The atmosphere was lovely with a warm social buzz – most likely about the gourmet cuisine. First up came the warm poppy seed and red onion and sage bread rolls, soon followed by the starters we had ordered whilst enjoying the bubbly in the bar. I chose scallops with garlic and lime purée

which were perfectly cooked and succulent. My guests tried the butter-poached lobster with celeriac and hazelnut; breast of pigeon salad; and from the specials, the H Formans London cured smoked salmon. The flavours of the freshly prepared starters were delicious to say the least.

The mains from the à la carte menu arrived at the table covered with large silver domes, which the waiters dramatically lifted at the same time to reveal our meals – an unexpected royal touch.

I decided to stick with a fish course of line-caught sea bass cooked in Biddenden cider with celeriac and apple. The crispiness of the skin and freshness of the fish in the sauce was perfect.

My guests’ meals all looked very exciting, included the Tournedos Rossini (a French steak dish) with truffle mashed potatoes and truffle brioche. The loin of venison, cooked medium rare, tasted beautiful with the chestnut purée, creamed cabbage, beetroot and parsnips and last but not least, the loin of lamb shoulder slow cooked with a beetroot purée was divine. Richard had recommended a bottle of Chateauneuf-du-Pape to complement the red meat selections which the whole table enjoyed, and a glass of Sauvignon Blanc for me to go with the fish.

Now it was time to decide which dessert we would choose from the impressive menu. The chefs at Eastwell Manor offer some fantastic choices, which you can only expect with a top à la carte menu. I chose the iced pear parfait with a dark chocolate sorbet, chocolate crunch and chocolate sauce, which was light and delicious. The dark chocolate pave was also a hit with my table, and the Horlicks ice cream went down wonderfully and asked the question

‘why has no one done this before?’ The poached blackberry jelly with vanilla panna cotta and hazelnut crunch not only looked lovely in its glass, but tasted beautiful.

After the meal we ordered coffees and petit fours, then retired to the comfortable manor armchairs in front of a roaring open to chat the night away.

For an extra special evening, Eastwell Manor is just the venue for stunning scenery, fine dining and an overall memorable experience. The restaurant I can confirm is back to where it should be: on Kent’s culinary map.

MARCH DINING OFFER

Free bottle of house wine in The Manor Restaurant *valid from Monday to Thursday inclusive This offer is valid for 2 people having lunch or dinner in the Manor Restaurant.

Each guest must order a minimum of two courses (one must be a main). Quote FD2013 when booking to claim your wine.

Eastwell Manor Eastwell Park Boughton Lees Ashford TN25 4HR 01233 213000 reservations@eastwellmanor.co.uk www.eastwellmanor.co.uk

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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ARTS

WHAT'S ON THIS SPRING AT

Turner Contemporary

TAKING INSPIRATION FROM BRITISH ARTIST JMW TURNER, TURNER CONTEMPORARY IS A CONTEMPORARY ARTS ORGANISATION BASED IN MARGATE, KENT THAT AIMS TO ENHANCE THE UNDERSTANDING AND ENJOYMENT OF HISTORICAL AND CONTEMPORARY ART WITH A DYNAMIC AND DIVERSE INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMME OF EXHIBITIONS AND EVENTS.

Turner Contemporary, Margate Exhibition: Carl Andre Mass & Matter Carl Andre building Cedar Piece, 1964 Document #37.

Photo by Martin Ries / Gannett Ries Digital Designs

Exhibition: Carl Andre Mass & Matter Carl Andre, Phalanx, 1981 © Carl Andre. DACS, London/VAGA, New York 2012

Exhibition: Rosa Barba Subject to Constant Change Rosa Barba, Subconscious Society, 2013 film still 35mm Courtesy of the artist

TURNER CONTEMPORARY 2013 SPRING EVENTS PROGRAMME special guests including art critic Alastair Sooke (The Daily Telegraph).

MARCH 2013 Carl Andre: Mass & Matter Panel discussion Wed 6 March, 7pm, £6/£5 concessions Tate Liverpool’s head of exhibitions & displays Gavin Delahunty and lecturer Dr Alaistair Rider discuss the context in which Carl Andre’s practice emerged and its influence. Chaired by senior lecturer in history & philosophy of art Dr Grant Pooke.

Words to be Spoken Aloud Fri 8 March – Sun 10 March, free A weekend festival of text-inspired performance, exhibition and workshops. Artists including Fiona Banner and Sue Tompkins, Margate Writer’s Squad and sculpture students from the Royal College of Art come together to transform ‘found’ text into art.

Turner’s Perspective Spotlight Tour Thu 21 March, 3pm, free Humphrey Ocean, current professor of perspective at the Royal Academy, sheds new light on Turner’s perspective drawings, which the artist made to accompany his lectures in the mid-19th century.

Annual Turner Lecture and Dinner with Richard Cork Thu 25 April, 6pm, advanced booking £85 per person (full price £100), table of 8, £600 (full price table £700) Award winning art critic, historian, broadcaster and curator Richard Cork is the special guest at this year’s Turner Lecture Dinner. The evening raises vital funds for future exhibitions, learning and community outreach programmes.

LOOK OUT FOR THESE ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES: Free exhibition tours Every Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday, 11 – 11:30am Youth navigator tours Sat 2 Feb, 10:30 – 12:30pm, free Free exhibition activities Perspective Windows (subject to availability as they are self-led activities) Tue - Sunday, 10am – 6pm, drop in Clore Learning Studio (subject to availability)

APRIL 2013 Turner on Perspective Sat 13 April, 7.30pm, price £10 / £8 concessions Turner’s lectures were famous for being at once fascinating and extremely difficult to follow. See for yourself in Maurice Davies’ dramatization with

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Family workshops Every Sunday, and Wednesday and Thursdays during school holidays, £3 per child/free for adults, under 3s and families living in CT9 Full event information can be found at turnercontemporary.org/whatson

TURNER CONTEMPORARY 2013 SPRING EXHIBITIONS PROGRAMME Carl Andre: Mass & Matter 1 February – 6 May 2013 A selection of sculptures and typed poems from the 1960s and 1970s by one of the most influential sculptors of the twentieth century.

Rosa Barba: Subject to Constant Change 1 February – 6 May 2013 An exhibition of works, including a significant new film installation, by this leading international artist, who takes a sculptural approach to film.

In partnership with Cornerhouse, Manchester.

Turner’s Perspective: Selected by Rosa Barba 1 February - 6 May 2013 JMW Turner was professor of perspective at the Royal Academy for thirty years. This exhibition presents lesser known drawings made to illustrate his lectures, selected by artist Rosa Barba.

Full event information can be found at: turnercontemporary.org/whatson

Gallery opening times: Mon: Closed Tue-Sun: 10am-6pm Turner Contemporary Rendezvous Margate CT9 1HG

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ARTS

UpDown Gallery’s 3RD EXHIBITION, Towards Colour,

Bridget Riley

BY RENOWNED BRITISH ARTIST HAS OPENED ITS DOORS TO THE PUBLIC.

SATIS HOUSE IN RAMSGATE IS THE SETTING FOR KENT’S LATEST PRESTIGIOUS ARTS VENTURE. OWNED BY CURATOR AND DIRECTOR KATE SMITH, UPDOWN GALLERY WILL HOST EXHIBITIONS FEATURING THE BEST OF MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY BRITISH, EUROPEAN AND AMERICAN ART. KATE RETURNS TO KENT FOLLOWING MORE THAN A DECADE WORKING AT THE FOREFRONT OF THE INTERNATIONAL ART SCENE, IN LEADING GALLERIES IN LONDON AND NEW YORK. Riley’s unique sense of colour was apparent to her from an early age. Colours and shapes would jump out at her and she remembers looking out over a calm sea, seeing the various shapes and colours shimmering and jostling for position on the horizon forming abstracted paintings in front of her eyes. It was an experience that has influenced Riley’s work over the decades and has inspired numerous artists, most noteworthy JMW Turner who was so taken by the seascapes of South East Kent.

Riley’s ‘Op Art’, a now acknowledged term to categorise her optically challenging black and white works made in the early 60s, came about almost by mistake. Her artistic practise, which involves painstaking arranging and rearranging of the different elements of a composition until the balance and desired frequency has been achieved, is only complete when the work has exactly the right resonance for Riley.

In the 1980s Riley travelled extensively and it was after a trip to Egypt that she moved toward colour in her work beginning a series termed her ‘Egyptian Palette’, which echoed the burnt, smouldering and rich colours she experienced.

Riley always believed that the best way to see colours was to live with them and experience them. She was greatly influenced by Seurat, one of the world’s best colourists, and fully acknowledges that it was through directly copying one of his paintings that she had a breakthrough with her own understanding of colour.

Riley’s main focus is on her paintings, but like many artists she fully appreciates the role that printmaking plays in her artistic process.

Having had major retrospectives at Tate and MoMA it is exciting for UpDown to be able to

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show an overview of her printmaking output from 1962 through to her latest prints published in 2012. Moving through her iconic optical black and white 60s prints toward the introduction of colour, illustrating the changing use of lines and curves, which are then moved on from to be revisited years later. Two prints in particular sum up Riley’s acute sense of colour: ‘Ra 2’ and ‘Silvered 2’ 1981, a pair of screenprints using exactly the same limited colour palette but in different combinations, producing completely different results. Although this principal is an ongoing dialogue Riley uses these two prints to illustrate to the viewer how she can manipulate colour to heighten the viewers experience.

"Art is a social act, my work is completed by the viewer," says Riley.

Riley remains a major figure within the British and international art world and her work continues to push the boundaries of colour and composition.

Bridget Riley ‘Towards Colour’ runs until 30th March.

UpDown Gallery hosts international quality shows featuring the best of modern and contemporary British, European and American art, just moments from Ramsgate’s Royal Harbour. Kent’s latest art gallery, which opened in November of last year, saw the transformation of a former Victorian home into a stunning contemporary exhibition space. The exhibitions are regularly refreshed and the gallery has an exciting schedule for 2013, which includes British abstract painter and printmaker Sir Howard Hodgkin from 6th April, modern landscape painters Martin Fidler and Katharine Le Hardy, and Piers Secunda, whose innovative practice takes as its starting point the materiality of paint.

In opening UpDown Gallery, director Kate Smith is determined to build upon the growing reputation of Kent following the opening of Turner Contemporary. “Our shows will differ from the Turner. The flexibility offered by a privately run gallery means we will change exhibitions more frequently, keeping the freshness and vibrancy that exists in many London galleries.

“We are in a great position to be able to host some great shows by leading artists as well as ‘up and coming’ names who are producing some really exciting art. This is a great opportunity to establish Kent, Thanet and Ramsgate as a leading destination for art.” Smith said.

With her extensive background and experience across the art world, Kate will be offering an art consultancy service from her office in the gallery, covering all aspects from starting a collection to investing in art for the future.

“UpDown Gallery is as much an investment in Kent as it is a venue for great art. Turner Contemporary has shown there is a huge appetite for modern and contemporary art. We want UpDown Gallery to become a venue which will offer art lovers diverse and exciting exhibitions from the best artists of the last century or so.”

UpDown Gallery Satis House 11 Elms Avenue Ramsgate CT11 9BQ 01843 588181 info@updowngallery.co.uk www.updowngallery.co.uk

TOWNSPOTLIGHT S

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CRANBROOK

BY GEMMA DUNN

NESTLED IN THE SOUTH EAST OF ENGLAND, THE QUAINT PICTURE POSTCARD TOWN OF CRANBROOK UNEQUIVOCALLY REMAINS ONE OF KENT'S MOST CHARISMATIC DISCOVERIES. SEEMINGLY UNSCATHED

BY TIME, THE TOWN'S WEATHERBOARDED COTTAGES AND INDEPENDENT TRADE OOZE AN OLD ENGLISH CHARM THAT IS IRREFUTABLY REMINISCENT OF ITS ONCE MEDIEVAL HEYDAY.

Once referred to as the Capital of the Weald, this pocket-sized town has sustained a vibrant history, much of which is centred around retaining a successful hand in the early 14th century broadcloth industry and evident reform as one of the finest market towns in Kent.

Translated to mean 'brook frequented by cranes or herons,' the name Cranbrook was originally recorded as Cranebroca in the later part of the 11th century; a title derived from the local stream that flows to the east of the high street, suitably dubbed the Crane Brook.

At this point in history, despite being surrounded by small villages, Cranbrook as a sole township ceased to exist, instead consisting mainly of wooded den areas throughout the greater part of the Weald. It wasn't until the significance of the newly named River Crane became more apparent that a settlement was granted, all in a bid to sustain and develop a community. In turn, the surrounding villages became towns in their own right, adopting the 'den' connotation in many of the names. This can be recognised today in Tenterden and Biddenden.

As well as gaining in commune, Cranbrook was soon identified as a centric location for the thriving industrial domain, proving to be invaluable to both the iron and Wealden cloth industry. No further than 30 miles from both Rochester and Canterbury, Cranbrook rapidly became the main iron ore provider to the larger of the Kentish

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towns, transporting produce via Bedgebury on the River Teise.

In addition to an already blooming exportation trade, Cranbrook was granted a charter in 1290

by Archbishop Peckham; a designation that would commemorate the town as a prosperous marketplace for years to come. In order to maintain their successes, locals relied heavily on the influx of regional farming, a flourishing trade that generated the best part of the town's wealth via the exportation of sheep's wool to European weavers. However, this was to be short lived after Edward I placed a tax on wool in the early 1300s- a judgement that later befell Edward III, who instead persuaded Flemish weavers to relocate and launch the broadcloth industry in the Weald.

A well informed decision it seemed, as by the mid-14th century, Cranbrook had developed into a distinguished leader in the cloth market, only later to gain further recognition as the centre of all cloth making and weaving in Kent. Even Queen Elizabeth I partook, purchasing the most famous broadcloth ever to be produced, 'Cranbrook Grey,' on a visit to the town. This noble success story continued until a natural decline in the 16th century led to its eventual demise - after which production moved up to the industrial sites in Northern England.

Despite this cessation, it is undeniable that this trade has had a huge hand in the evolution of

Cranbrook's society, as the wealth of the clothiers claim responsibility for many of the substantial Flemish builds still standing today. Whether divulging in the history of the town is the intention of your visit, it's these such remnants of the old Weald that remain inescapable, yet intriguing in the modern day. Thus, despite my earlier pocketsized referral, what the town of Cranbrook lacks in size, it more than makes up for in visitor appeal.

If you are simply looking to explore the town at your own pace, enjoy a leisurely walk through the narrow, medieval streets and admire the lines of oak-framed buildings and pretty cottages, each enchanting in their lack of uniformity. You will also notice the previously mentioned Flemish weatherboarded cottages, complete with white picket fences in a midst of tranquil greenery.

Wander further into the centre to discover an array of shops interspersed along two of the main streets. Free from the recognisable chains of the larger high street, Cranbrook plays host to an eclectic mix of stores, from antiques and crafted homeware to independent fashion boutiques, perfect for that exclusive find. Hungry work? You will find numerous delicatessens dotted along the same street in which to grab yourself a mid-shop pick-me-up treat.

On the other hand, if you are hoping to enjoy a meal, Cranbrook boasts a number of commended eateries that will carry you through from day to

evening. Indulge in some fine dining at Apicius, a Michelin starred restaurant celebrated for its contemporary European cuisine, or pay a visit to popular choice Le Jardin, praised for its contemporary Mediterranean menu.

Alternatively, if you are looking for a great pub, head to the White Hart for a friendly local that will serve up simple, delicious meals every time. Just a coffee stop you are after? There are plenty of quaint tearooms to choose from in Cranbrook, with Waterloo House Tearooms amongst its most visited.

Whilst in Cranbrook, it would be a shame to pass up the opportunity to absorb the history that is relayed throughout the town's significant sites.

One of the most poignant is the church of St Dunstan. Steeped in history, its 15th century perpendicular exterior build has seen much expansion and adornment over the centuries. Discover the 14th century 'parvise' - the room in which prisoners were held during the religion-provoked persecutions of Mary Tudor's reign. Also amongst its intriguing interior is a monument to artist Thomas Webster by Victorian sculptor Hamo Thorneycroft.

Cranbrook Museum is also well worth a visit. Dwelling in a 15th century manor house, originally the farmhouse for the Rectory Farm belonging to the Archbishop of Canterbury, this museum tells the story of the town over the centuries. Learn about the colourful past of the broadcloth manufacturing days, and reminisce over the town changes through the facility’s wellinformed historical displays.

Perhaps one of the main characteristics of Cranbrook is the emblematic Kent Windmill. As well as providing a fantastic skyline backdrop, the town's last smock mill is brimming with history and currently stands as the tallest, working, union mill in England today. But you don't have to enjoy the view from afar; visitors are able to climb to the top and take in the magnificent Kent country views from a height.

In addition to Cranbrook’s own historical highlights, the town is just a stone’s throw from exploring neighbouring towns Tenterden and Biddenden, as well as only three miles from the world-famous Sissinghurst Gardens.

Cranbrook is admired for many reasons, but none more so than for its timeless appeal and inept ability to have remained relatively unchanged throughout the centuries. From the mindful presence of the traditional shopkeeper - right through to the undeniable community spirit, the town exudes the character of a conventional rural English town that we all want to be a part of.

From the great schools, shops and restaurants to the idyllic cottages and sleepy orchards, it is no wonder Cranbrook is appealing to both families and visitors alike. It really does have the whole package and better still, it's all on your very doorstep.

OLD DAIRY BREWERY CONTINUES TO CHURN OUT THE CREAM OF THE CROP A TRADITIONAL MICROBREWERY, LOCATED IN THE WEALD OF KENT AND HOUSED IN AN OLD MILKING PARLOUR, OLD DAIRY BREWERY GOT OFF THE GROUND JUST OVER THREE YEARS AGO. THEY ARE PROUD TO BOAST A YOUNG AND VIBRANT WORKFORCE MADE UP OF NEARLY AS MANY GIRLS AS BOYS, MANY OF WHOM CALL THIS THEIR LOCAL STOMPING GROUND, MAKING THE BEER A TRULY RURAL AFFAIR.

The vision was to create the perfect pint. They combine passion, skill, traditional brewing techniques and unique recipes, to craft an impressive range of delicious, award-winning bitters, ales and stouts, both diverse in flavour and consistent in quality. Having recently expanded to 40 brewer's barrels (BBLs) per week, Old Dairy Brewery is already taking the South East by storm and is now setting its sights even higher, increasing production to 100 BBLs. Their fantastic core range of Red Top – Best Bitter 3.8% ABV, Gold Top – Golden Ale 4.3% ABV, Blue Top – India Pale Ale 4.8% ABV, each has a strong following amongst locals and visitors alike. The beers are also proving popular further afield because once you’ve tried one of these, you ‘won’t want any udder.’ Not only keeping the local beer drinkers happy, they now regularly supply their delicious beers to various watering holes in London and Surrey – also available in bottles in off licenses and farm shops, the listings are ever increasing.

Old Dairy Brewery believes the secret of its success is down to the quality of their ingredients. The pale ale malt, which forms the backbone of all their beers, is from Maris Otter barley, the only barley variety specially bred for brewers of cask-conditioned ale. It is quite simply the finest brewing malt in the world and they blend it with a portion of

specialty malts to give depth and variety to the flavour of the beer. They use whole leaf hops, only, with several additions made for each brew.

A mix of Kentish, Continental and New World hops are used to make traditional ales with a contemporary taste.

Old Dairy Brewery Ltd Rawlinson Farm Hole Park Rolvenden TN17 4JD 01580 243 185 fineale@olddairybrewery.com www.olddairybrewery.com

DAYSOUT

My Kent

BIG WEEKEND

23-24 MARCH

Standard Quay Ightham Mote

Dover Castle

W almer Castle

THOUSANDS OF FREE TICKETS TO THE COUNTY’S ICONIC ATTRACTIONS, HIDDEN TREASURES AND A WIDE VARIETY OF OTHER VISITOR DESTINATIONS WERE UP FOR GRABS WHEN THE MY KENT BIG WEEKEND 2013 BALLOT WEBSITE WENT LIVE IN JANUARY. Visitors to www.mykentbigweekend.co.uk were able to browse through the delights of more than 100 activities and attractions, including castles, vineyards, wildlife parks and riverboat tours, and apply for the 17,000+ free tickets on offer.

The event, launched by Visit Kent seven years ago, has become a highlight of the county calendar and is now part of English Tourism Week with other counties following Kent’s example and showcasing their visitor attractions to local people at the start of the summer season.

England’s two oldest cathedrals, family fun theme parks, golf links, bush craft and art courses are among the many destinations opening their doors to welcome free ticket holders, and everyone else wanting to share in the celebrations, during My Kent Big Weekend on Saturday and Sunday, March 23 and 24.

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Sandra Matthews-Marsh, chief executive at Visit Kent, said, “My Kent Big Weekend is all about having fun and celebrating the variety of attractions and hidden gems which make our county such a popular destination for day visits and short breaks.

“These attractions, and the wide range of sporting and creative activities available, entertain our visitors but they also add so much to our quality of life as Kent residents.

“My Kent Big Weekend gives us all an opportunity to get out and about and discover new days out and entertainment on our doorstep – and then we are able to recommend those experiences to all our friends and families.” www.mykentbigweekend.co.uk

Participating attractions include*: Action Watersports Affordable Car Hire Bedgebury National Pinetum & Forest Belmont Gardens Bewl Water Biddenden Vineyards Ltd Canterbury Cathedral Canterbury Heritage Museum Canterbury Historic River Tours Canterbury Roman Museum Central Park Stadium Chapel Down Winery Chartwell Chiddingstone Castle Crampton Tower Museum Cranbrook Museum Criterion Music Hall Cyclopark Deal Castle DFDS Seaways Dickens House Museum Dickens World Diggerland Doddington Place Gardens Dover Castle Dover Museum Dover Transport Museum Eagle Heights East Kent Railway

Participating attractions (cont.)

Emmetts Garden Fleur de Lis Heritage Centre Museum Freedom of Chilham Godinton House & Gardens Goodnestone Park Gardens Gravesend Old Town Hall Grove Ferry River Trips Guided Walk of Royal Tunbridge Wells Hall Place and Gardens Herne Bay Mini Golf Herne Bay Museum & Gallery Hornby Visitor Centre Howletts Wild Animal Park Ightham Mote National Trust Canterbury River Tours Joss Bay Surf School Jungle Jims Entertainment Centre Kent & East Sussex Railway Kent Life Kent Life Knole Leeds Castle Leybourne Lake Watersports Centre Lullingstone Country Park Lullingstone Roman Villa Maidstone Museum & Bentlif Art Gallery Margate Museum Meopham Valley Vineyard CIF_Canterbury_133x190_CIF_Canterbury_133x190 20/02/2013 16:21 Page 1

Minster Gatehouse Mount Ephraim Gardens Name of attraction Natural Pathways Bushcraft New Tavern Fort Penshurst Place & Gardens Port Lympne Wild Animal Park Powell-Cotton Museum Quebec House RAF Manston Spitfire & Hurricane Memorial Trust Ramsgate Brewery Ltd Richborough Roman Fort Riverhill Himalayan Gardens Rochester Castle Rochester Cathedral Romney Hythe and Dymchurch Railway Rough Old Wife Cidery Roundwood Hall Golf Club Royal Engineers Museum, Library & Archive RSPB Dungeness Nature Reserve Samphire Hoe Sandwich Guildhall Museum Sarah Thorne Theatre Scotney Castle Seapoint Canoe Centre Shorne Woods Country Park Singleton Environment Centre

Spa Valley Railway St Augustine's Abbey St Oswald's Church Standard Quay Stonelees Golf Centre Stour Centre Stour Centre Terlingham Vineyard The Agricultural Museum, Brook The Avenue Theatre / Screen @ The Avenue The C. M. Booth collection of historic vehicles The Canterbury Tales The Friars The Historic Dockyard Chatham The Kent Museum of Freemasonry The Secret Gardens of Sandwich This Art of Mine Ltd Tonbridge Castle Union Windmill, Cranbrook Walmer Castle and Gardens Whitstable Museum & Gallery Wildwood Willesborough Windmill Wingham Wildlife Park Woolton Farm

*as of 7 Jan 2013

Purchase direct from the very best artists and craftmakers in the UK

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Canterbury

5-7 April

12 noon to 5pm Fri • 10am to 5pm Sat & Sun • Signposted off A290 CT2 9DT • Admission £4.00 • Over 65’s £3.00 • Under 14’s Free

www.craftinfocus.com T: 01622 747325 www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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Herne and West Blean WOOD WALK

THIS WALK THROUGH ANCIENT WOODLAND, KNOWN AS THE BLEAN, CROSSES AN OLD DROVEWAY BEFORE ENTERING OPEN COUNTRYSIDE THAT HAS WIDE VIEWS ACROSS THE SWALE ESTUARY. KENT WILDLIFE TRUST OWN AND MANAGE MUCH OF THE WOODLAND.

The Blean is the area of woodland, countryside and villages between the cathedral city of Canterbury and the coastal towns of Faversham, Whitstable and Herne Bay. For a thousand years The Blean has remained one of the largest and most distinctive areas of woodland in the South East, covering some 3,000 hectares – over 11 square miles! Not only is most of this classified as ‘ancient woodland’ but over half is recognised as being nationally and even internationally important for wildlife.

it could have been the location of the Hundred Court Leet, which dealt with disputes and levied taxes on behalf of the king.

Starting in Herne Common, you will see the old Blean Union Workhouse, which later became Herne Hospital. Opened on 14th January 1836, the workhouse served 16 parishes neighbouring The Blean and housed 420 inmates. Built by William Edmunds, it comprised a large formal quadrangle enclosed by two storey buildings. In 1879 the workhouse was extended with the construction of a hospital for ‘infectious’ cases. It was later used for ‘difficult’ women and finally a hospital for elderly patients. It has since been converted into residential use. There are interesting Grade II listed cottages opposite.

As you walk through the woods you will notice droveways, which were used for many centuries to drive animals from winter to summer pasture.

Two woodbanks with ditches beside them 15 to 20 metres apart kept the animals from straying into the wood and browsing on the valuable coppice re-growth. They also served as ownership boundaries and were used by local people to bring out timber and underwood.

Continuing out of Herne Common, you will soon come across Bleangate.

The name Bleangate, apart from being the gate into West Blean Wood, also referred to the whole area of Herne, Chislet, Reculver, East Stourmouth and Sturry, forming the Hundred of Blengate (Bleangate) in the middle ages.

A hundred was an administrative area used to divide a larger region into smaller geographical units. It is situated on the highest ground locally and

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At one time West Blean and East Blean Woods were in the parish of Chislet.

Although detached from the main parish area it provided woodland, for the benefit of St Augustine’s Abbey who owned Chislet and got considerable income from the woods.

There are two old pollards on the edge of Cripps Wood, to the left of the stile on the boundary of the open field. Pollards are cut at or above head height, often to prevent browsing animals reaching the new shoots. However they were also used to mark significant points, perhaps parish or ownership boundaries. Look out for other veteran trees when walking in woodland.

To the left there are excellent panoramic views over Knockhimdown Hill and the escarpment that was Stubbs Wood. Vast quantities of clay were removed from here to fill the breach in the sea defences in the great storm

of 1953. On a clear day you can see Sheppey and Essex beyond and the 30 turbines of the Kentish Flats Wind Farm in the Swale estuary.

Next you will come to Bleanbottom Shaw. A shaw or shave is a strip of woodland, usually between 5 and 15 metres wide. Shaws commonly form boundaries between fields or line a road and are usually composed of natural woodland, and they often have diverse woodland ground vegetation similar to other natural woodlands in the area. They should not be confused with hedges, even when these are made of mature trees. Like other woodland, shaws may be managed as high forest or as coppice. In some areas, shaws may be the remnants of larger woods out of which fields were assarted or cleared many centuries ago, or they may have developed from narrower hedgerows which have become unmanaged.

Across the whole of The Blean there are mature oak trees. The poor nature of the clay soil makes them slow growing but of a higher density than normal. However, in the past the ‘underwood’ coppice had the most value commercially as poles, posts, faggots, bark for tanning, firewood and so on.

Location: CT6 7JX, Herne Common, Anemone Way off A291 (800m southwest of Herne Village), opposite The First & Last Pub Distance: 3.5 miles (5.5km), allow 1.5 to 2 hours

Within 5 miles…

Canterbury City History and heritage, stunning architecture, world famous buildings and a shopper’s paradise await in this delightful city that nestles in the countryside of East Kent.

Step count: Approximately 7,000 OS Explorer Map: 150 Terrain: Woodland and field paths, some moderate slopes. The Blean is on heavy clay in places so can get wet and muddy - boots are recommended.

Stiles: 3 Parking: On road parking in Herne Common Refreshments & Facilities: The First & Last Pub in Herne Common

Whitstable Famed for its Oysters and fine eateries, thriving arts community and for being one of the county's most picturesque coastal towns, a visit to Whitstable will not disappoint.

Faversham One of England’s most charming and historic market towns, with outstanding attractions, fine food and drink and wonderful walking routes Faversham is an exceptional place explore and enjoy.

For more walks like this one and great days out in Kent visit www.kent.gov.uk/explorekent or follow @explorekent on Twitter www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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LOOKING FORWARD TO

THE WAR AND PEACE REVIVAL 2013 THE GREATEST GATHERING OF MILITARY VEHICLES 17-21 JULY

AN EXCITING FIVE-DAY MILITARY AND VINTAGE FESTIVAL IS COMING TO RAF WESTENHANGER, FOLKESTONE RACECOURSE IN JULY PROVIDING A FUN-PACKED EVENT FOR FAMILIES. THE WAR AND PEACE REVIVAL WILL WELCOME VISITORS TO WHAT WILL BE THE BIGGEST SHOW OF ITS KIND IN THE WORLD, FEATURING ACTION-PACKED BATTLE RE-ENACTMENTS, STATIC DISPLAYS, CLASSIC CIVILIAN AND MILITARY VEHICLES, VINTAGE FASHIONS AND THE SONGS, SOUNDS AND SMELLS OF WARTIME. THE WAR AND PEACE REVIVAL WILL BRING THE DUNKIRK SPIRIT TO THIS HISTORIC CORNER OF KENT. The man behind the new show is Rex Cadman, who is best known for his much-loved former event, The War and Peace Show, which was based at The Hop Farm in Kent. The show closed for good in 2012 after celebrating its 30th anniversary but this wasn't to be the end of War and Peace for Rex! "We knew how much The War and Peace Show was loved, but we also knew that it needed a refresh. So having found our new location with its better facilities and transport links, we launched The War and Peace Revival at the end of last year, and we're now looking forward to the next 30 years of War and Peace!"

The Racecourse location is a perfect fit with The War and Peace Revival. Right in the heart of Hellfire Corner, so named due to the battering it received during the Battle of Britain in 1940, the area is packed full of military history – from the dawn of time it’s seen Roman landings, Vikings, cavaliers and roundheads, and of course the two world wars.

Visitors to the new show will be able to see many of the expected War and Peace attractions including living history, military vehicles, meeting WW2 and other veterans, vintage civilian entertainment, trade stands, celebrities, battle re-enactments and military models.

Thousands of military vehicles are expected to gather from around the world representing the armies of the 20th century, including tanks, artillery, armoured and amphibious vehicles, cars, Jeeps, bicycles and motorbikes, emergency and commercial vehicles, and lots more.

Living History scenes will give a unique picture of life in conflict from WW1 to the present – see the British living in trenches, GIs in Vietnam, Russians relaxing with an accordion after a hard day in battle, or the Home Guard.

A thousand trade stalls will give collectors and shoppers the opportunity to browse through marquees packed full of treasures including militaria, antiquities, vehicle parts, books, memorabilia, clothing and uniforms and all manner of essential finds for the discerning enthusiast – everything from a shirt button to a tank! And our new Vintage Market Place will give exciting finds of vintage clothes, homeware and memorabilia - and feature demonstrations of vintage hair and make up to help you achieve the look!

For the modellers, an extensive display of some top class models will be on display, bringing enthusiasts from around the world.

And for those who prefer a little more refinement, the amazing new Vintage Village will offer glamour and style aplenty, a haven for anyone interested in all things vintage! See incredible Home Front re-enactors and diorama depicting civilian life from the 1930s to the 1960s, including classic civilian vehicles, a village store and pub, Fire, Police and Ambulance service, Home Guard and the Flying Food Squad.

Demonstrations inside the Home Front Marquee will include make do and mend and the Ministry of Food presentations.

Meanwhile the Spitfire tea room will be the scene of a themed café, decorated in 40s style (but without the rationing!). Sit back and enjoy tea and cakes surrounded by new vintage civilian features. The Jazz bar will give new spark to the days and the nights, while the V Marquee brings the 1930s-1960s to life with the best in entertainment from the period.

Expert dancers will be on hand in the Dance Hall Days Marquee to step you back in time with music and dancing from the period, and the evening entertainment includes the fabulous Jive Aces and the iconic John Miller Big Band in a dinner dance spectacular.

If you’re interested in the civilian vintage scene, but not necessarily the military side, then there will be plenty to keep you occupied; so you can put on your elegant shoes and hats and really feel welcomed and part of the brand new War and Peace Revival.

The War and Peace Battle of Britain Experience will be on show with its full-sized replicas of a Spitfire, Hurricane and Me 109, and expect impressive flypast displays in the skies above to bring home the excitement of the past.

The Racecourse is just minutes from J11 of the M20 with ample parking available for all.

Alternatively Westenhanger train station is just a couple of minutes’ walk from the Racecourse.

Full details for visitors and exhibitors and early bird ticket offers until 8th April are available at www.thewarandpeacerevival.co.uk

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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DAYSOUT

FLYING WITH A SPITFIRE

AS THE 73RD ANNIVERSARY OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN APPROACHES, WARTIME PILOT ACE, WARRANT OFFICER NEVILLE CROUCHER, TALKS EXCLUSIVELY TO insideKENT ABOUT HIS LATEST THRILLING ENCOUNTER WITH AN ICONIC SPITFIRE OVER THE WHITE CLIFFS OF DOVER.

From the moment he stepped into the luxury helicopter to fly alongside an iconic Spitfire, former wartime pilot ace, Neville Croucher, knew he’d be in for an authentic and heart-rending experience.

As an RAF Warrant Officer from 1941 to 1946, Neville had seen the legendary Spitfire in action many times and knew full well just why she became known as the most famous aircraft in the world.

Sgt Pilot Neville Croucher at Lofthouse Scotland in 1942

“It was always amazing to watch her during the war and just to hear those Merlin engines roaring across the skies of Kent; I knew the enemy would be in for a fright!” recalled Neville, 89, from his home in east Kent.

So when he was invited by Action Stations!’ originator Steve Burt to fly with a Spitfire in honour of the 72nd anniversary of the Battle of Britain last September, Neville was delighted.

“I had always wanted to see the Spitfire in action today, and with RAF Flt Lt Charlie Brown at the controls of Spitfire Mk V BM597, my flight in the helicopter alongside couldn’t have been more real.

“Charlie flew her with brilliance all around the helicopter, and I got some cracking photographs. He’s a splendid pilot and handles the Spit beautifully. I had a wonderful day with Charlie and the Action Stations! crew.”

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During the Battle of Britain in 1940, a young Neville had watched spectacular dogfights between Spitfires and the German Messerschmitts 109s taking place over the Channel, and there were many occasions he watched the enemy’s Dornier bombers head for RAF Manston airfield near Ramsgate.

He said, “When I flew next to the Spitfire with Action Stations!, we took off from Lydd Airport, and within seconds it was wonderful to see the Battle of Britain Memorial site at Capelle-Ferne from the air.

“Flying along the coast along the White Cliffs of Dover, and over the South Foreland lighthouse, Dover Castle, and other landmarks, brought back so many memories to me. It’s an incredible experience for enthusiasts of today, and I should know. I was up there 68 years ago!”

Neville became, what in the war was known as ‘air minded’, in 1939.

He explained, “I was working for a baker and carrying bread in the basket of my bike in 1939 when a German Dornier pilot dropped a bomb nearby and blew me right over the handlebars. He was – I hasten to add – being chased by a Spitfire, so I thought, ‘Right, that’s it, I want to be a pilot and stop this happening once and for all!’”

Neville was 21 when he was sent to Canada to learn to fly and gained his wings as a Sgt Pilot after training in aircraft like the Fairchild Cornell, the Miles Magister, and the Airspeed Oxford.

As a leading member of 289 Squadron, Neville returned to Scotland and was based at RAF Turnhouse defending our coast, and then towards the end of the war he was stationed at West Malling, Kent.

“There were often Spitfires around at base but my orders were to stick with my Hurricane, and as she always managed to get me out of some tight spots and skirmishes with the enemy I was happy to continue flying her, but I never stopped wanting to see just what a Spitfire was like to handle in the air,” explained Neville.

From the control room in Littlebourne, near Canterbury, Kent, Action Stations!’ Steve Burt

told insideKENT he had been honoured to meet Neville and offer him a classic Fly with a Spitfire experience.

“Fly with a Spitfire, and indeed our Fly with a Hurricane experience, is a wonderful tribute to ‘The Few’ –those gallant young heroes of the Battle of Britain who risked their lives defending the skies of Kent.

“We provide enthusiasts with the opportunity to take part in our unique flying memorial to ‘The Few’, and for every flight booked we donate £5 to the Battle of Britain Memorial Trust Wing Appeal to build an educational centre at the Capel-le-Ferne site.

“To fly next to a Spitfire over Battle of Britain country is a unique experience which attracts visitors and enthusiasts to Kent from all over the world.”

If you’d like to know more about the Fly with a Spitfire and/or Fly with a Hurricane 2013 Events Programme which runs from March to October then call Action Stations! on 01227 721929 or visit www.goactionstations.co.uk

WIN! A Fly with a Spitfire Silver Experience worth £299 If you’d like to win a chance to sit in a luxury helicopter and fly over Battle of Britain country alongside the legendary Spitfire Mk Vb BM597 piloted by Flt Lt Charlie Brown, then answer this question correctly: How many active airfields were there in Kent during the Battle of Britain from June – October 1940?* *The number and their official names must be given.

Email your answer and contact details to: melodyforeman@btinternet.com or send them on a postcard to: Action Stations! Reynold’s Place, Nargate Street, Littlebourne, Canterbury, Kent CT3 1QJ Mark your entries 'insideKENT/Action Stations!

Competition.' Closing date: 1 May 2013.

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DAYSOUT

MO RE T O EXPLO RE A T

The Historic Dockyard CHATHAM IN 2013 PAY ONCE AND VISIT AGAIN AND AGAIN!

Immerse yourself in a year of exploration and discovery at The Historic Dockyard Chatham, the world’s most complete dockyard from the age of sail and one of Britain’s leading maritime heritage destinations.

Use your 12 month ticket to unearth an amazing array of artworks during the 2013 temporary exhibitions of Art in the Dockyard; behold breathtaking photography and artefacts from the last expeditions of Scott and Shackleton whilst Exploring Antarctica; and become mesmerised by the paintings of Sir John Lavery RA in Shore to Sea. Witness innovative ‘digital theatre’ as you explore a new visitor experience called Hearts of Oak and participate in new family activities and discovery trails.

Art in the Dockyard 16 February – 6 May Some of the best creative talent in Kent will be exhibited in No. 1 Smithery: The Gallery. Paintings, sculptures, photography and mixed media artworks – all inspired by the dockyard itself – are represented in this introspective and diverse art exhibition, sponsored by Hatten Wyatt Solicitors and Advocates.

Stephen Turner, guest curator of the exhibition said, “As an artist working in the dockyard myself for many years, it has been a great experience and privilege to be able to share and bring together the insights of others. This art exhibition brings together a diverse range of responses to The Historic Dockyard in Chatham.

It includes work inspired by the texture of timeworn brick, steel and the massive timbers of its buildings and collection of ships. There are sensitive investigations of light and its reflections on ever present water and through glass. For some, the experience of discovering the dockyard has stirred personal meditations on the passing of time and key moments from both recent and more distant past. This is particularly evident in a body of work submitted on the Jubilee theme, with its reminder of a 400 year royal connection.

This is not a world of black and white, but rather a place of innumerable meanings defined by the many shades of grey between.”

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Hearts of Oak New visitor attraction opening Easter Experience innovative ‘digital theatre’ in this new visitor experience. Building on the most loved elements of the former Wooden Walls of England Gallery, new technology and interpretation techniques will bring the story of people, ships and processes to life in a vivid, engaging and exciting way.

The Hearts of Oak Gallery uses more than 20 years of research and understanding to retell the story of the construction of wooden-hulled sail-powered warships at Chatham Dockyard. At the time the Dockyard was the world’s greatest dockyard of the age of sail – building the ships that led to British command of the world’s oceans for 150 years.

Exploring Antarctica: The Final Expeditions of Scott and Shackleton 24 May – 30 August Explore the treacherous beauty of the Antarctic icescapes as we follow two of the most iconic British explorers on their perilous journeys across the most hostile environment on earth. Follow the unforgettable expeditions made by both Scott and Shackleton through a series of poignant and revealing historic photographs and authentic artefacts including goggles, tents, sledges, chemistry set, diary bag and seal skin over-shoes.

Stunning images captured by the skilled photography of both Frank Hurley OBE and Herbert Ponting FRGS display the feats of these

pioneers and demonstrate the incredible task that lay ahead of those brave souls. Discover what these men carried with them, the routes they took and the clothing they wore in our family activities and dress-up area.

From Shore to Sea: Paintings

by Sir John Lavery, 1914 – 1918 15 September – 1 December The First World War is seen from a naval perspective in 31 paintings by Sir John Lavery (1856 – 1941), drawn mainly from the collection of the Imperial War Museum.

Featuring rarely seen paintings from the Imperial War Museum, this exhibition is devoted to the art of Sir John Lavery and shows the conflict of the First World War through the eyes of a war artist.

Explore the story of how the two greatest navies in the world fought an epic battle on the North Sea. Experience Scapa Flow in the depth of winter and see the great battleships on the Firth of Forth, and the airfields, shipyards and munitions factories geared up for war.

This Historic Dockyard Chatham ME4 4TE 01634 823807 www.thedockyard.co.uk

ESCAPES

elephant lodge

AT PORT LYMPNE WILD ANIMAL PARK

THE ELEPHANT LODGE GLAMPING EXPERIENCE AT PORT LYMPNE IS A UNIQUE AND EXCITING UK SHORT BREAK, WHERE FAMILIES AND FRIENDS CAN ENJOY LUXURY CAMPING WITH A WILD TWIST.

Consisting of 11 glamping tents, sleeping up to eight people each, Elephant Lodge is situated in the 600 acres that make up Port Lympne Wild Animal Park near Ashford and offers a truly different short break option, with unlimited free entry to explore both Port Lympne and Howletts Wild Animal Parks and surrounding areas.

The beautiful tents all have small decked verandas, with stylish seating to the front affording unrivalled views over the cheetah and elephant paddocks to the Kent coast and beyond; perfect for relaxing with a cocktail and watching the sun set over the Channel. Inside the tents, guests will find a spacious living area with a cosy wood burning stove. It is worth noting that during the summer months the sides of the tent can be fastened right back to make way for the perfect setting for an al fresco evening. Sleeping arrangements comprise two double beds, a bunk bed and a sofa bed. Most importantly for the discerning glamper, there are also private piping hot showers and en tent WC facilities.

Sam Lloyd, Head of Accommodation and Hospitality at Port Lympne said, “Unlike so many campsites in the UK that are often just a gate into a grassed field of no significance, the Elephant Lodge tents are located at the top of our African elephant paddocks. Their commanding position means that they offer the most incredible uninterrupted views over the English Channel.”

The airy and spacious Club House at the heart of Elephant Lodge has a full and varied menu for guests to choose from. From 2013 a complimentary continental breakfast, known as

‘Chef’s Kentish Basket’ will be available every morning and includes chilled fruit juices, seasonal fruit, mini muffins and croissants or toast, cereals and tea or coffee. Guests can upgrade to a full Kentish cooked breakfast on request, whilst dinner menus offer a variety of tempting family favourites, designed to satisfy the most voracious of appetites, after a fun-filled day of activities and adventure.

A real favourite at the Club House is the Mongolian grill – a traditional Mongolian way of cooking over a fire on a flat metal surface. Guests can choose from a selection of locally sourced meat – a fundamental of Mongolian food – and fresh vegetables accompanied by a choice of Asian-themed sauces, cooked to order by the expert chef.

Guests staying at Port Lympne’s latest glamping offering can enjoy unlimited free entry to both Port Lympne and Howletts Wild Animal Parks – the world famous parks which work closely with The Aspinall Foundation conservation charity. The parks are home to some of the most rare and endangered species on the planet. Howletts, near Canterbury, has the largest herd of African elephants in the UK and the largest group of western lowland gorillas in the world, whilst highlights at Port Lympne – one of the UK’s largest wildlife parks – include a safari on The African Experience to see giraffe, black rhino, wildebeest, zebra, ostrich and more roaming freely over 100 acres of Kentish savannah and the largest herd of black rhino in the UK. The activities don’t stop at Elephant Lodge

– a variety of nightly activities are available for guests to join in, highlights of which include a dusk safari over The African Experience. Guests will also have the chance to get close to some of the elusive small cats like the fishing cats, margays and Pallas cat.

Sam added, “The location of Elephant Lodge means that guests have the option not only of exploring Port Lympne and Howletts Wild Animal Parks, but also the Garden of England. There are great bike rides and walking routes just on the doorstep and the beach is within easy cycling or driving distance. This area of Kent is filled with treasures to explore with many famous landmarks.

We can provide the perfect staycation for family and friends and the opportunity to discover everything this wonderful corner of Kent has to offer.”

Elephant Lodge is a secure gated site.

Perfect for families with small children, the Lodge offers a safe and secure environment with plenty of toys and board games available from the communal Club House, along with high chairs in the restaurant and small overnight fridges in each tent.

Elephant Lodge will now be opening in March 2013 and guests can book stays for three, four or seven nights. Prices start from £125 per tent per night.

For further information please visit www.aspinallfoundation.org/shortbreaks or call 0844 855 0274.

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GETAWAYS

lucknam park

ONE OF ENGLAND’S FINEST

AFTER HEARING GREAT THINGS ABOUT LUCKNAM PARK IN WILTSHIRE, MY GUEST AND I WERE RATHER EXCITED ABOUT OUR PLANNED TRIP AHEAD. WE LEFT KENT AND IN JUST UNDER THREE HOURS WE HAD ARRIVED AT OUR DESTINATION. THE APPROACH – A MAGNIFICENT MILE-LONG AVENUE OF 400 LIME AND BEECH TREES – ENDS AT ONE OF ENGLAND'S FINEST FIVE-STAR LUXURY COUNTRY HOUSE HOTELS. BY ADAM READY We entered the house, which has a great history dating back as far as 1199, and were greeted by the reception staff and a cosy log burning fire. After we checked in and the staff took our luggage on to our room, we were able to take a quick tour of the hotel and spa. We then went back to our room and were pleasantly surprised to find a bottle of champagne on ice and some chocolates to help us settle in. It was a cold but sunny day, and after unpacking we decide to go on a walk of the gardens and visit the equestrian centre which has three riding packages available for guests and appeals to riders of all skill levels.

After walking around the peaceful grounds, my guest and I attempted to walk the two-mile round trip of the driveway. The cold winter air on our faces prevented us from doing this as the thought of a Wiltshire afternoon tea of fresh baked scones, cream, jam and tea in the library was much more attractive, so we turned back and relaxed in the house.

The hotel has 42 luxurious bedrooms including 13 suites, some with four-poster beds, and all are individually designed. After afternoon tea we returned to our spacious room which was in the outer building above the old stable quarters where the house staff would retreat. Our room looked out across the courtyard area and everything about it made us feel at home. As we woke from an afternoon nap, we headed straight over to the luxury spa, newly built to very high standards and opened late 2008.

The spa boasts nine therapy rooms offering numerous spa and beauty treatments with renowned

brands. My guest had the one-hour ‘made-to-measure’, a tailor-made full body massage combining Anne Semonin techniques with a personally prescribed blend of intensive complexes and warmed botanical oil. The main features of the spa include the stunning 20-metre indoor swimming pool with glass covered roof and poolside flames, as well as the indoor and outdoor hydrotherapy pool, five thermal cabins, salt water plunge pool, experience showers and relaxation room. As the cold afternoon turned to dusk, we watched the stars appear in the clear skies above, whilst sitting in the heated outdoor hydrotherapy pool – absolute bliss!

Before dinner we headed to the grand drawing room in the main house for pre-dinner cocktails from the very elegant list and canapés in front of the fire. This gave us a chance to look over the menu of executive chef Hywel Jones who has held a Michelin star at The Park restaurant since 2006 and since then has received many accolades including Hotel Chef of the Year in November 2007.

For our first course we ordered cured Loch Duart salmon and poached Scottish lobster. Both seafood dishes were fresh, tasty and went well after our prestarter scallop dish and the warmly baked bread served.

For my main course, the beef from the specials caught my attention and I was glad of my choice; as was my guest who ordered the loin of Andrew Morgan’s Beacon venison with rolled lasagne of butternut squash and chestnuts, and sloe gin sauce. The sommelier was on hand to recommend the Masi Tupungato Passo Doble Malbec Corvina 2010, Mendoza to go with our menu

choices and was spot on!

For dessert the fine banana tart and mousse, salted caramel ice cream and popcorn form was perfect for me and put together with much love and attention to detail by the pastry chef. For my guest, the arrival of the well-stocked cheese trolley with fine British and French cheeses gave our waiter the busy task of answering our questions about the offerings whilst serving. The staff were friendly, knowledgeable and made our evening at The Park restaurant a truly enjoyable dining experience.

The following morning we made sure to visit the contemporary and stylish Brasserie for breakfast, which is part of the spa building, and in warmer months your meal can be enjoyed al fresco. After breakfast and a quick swim we headed off talking about our amazing stay at Lucknam Park.

This magnificent country house hotel is located just six miles from the historic city of Bath and caters for all your needs; it’s the perfect place for a relaxing weekend away in the Cotswold countryside.

Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa Colerne, Chippenham Wiltshire SN14 8AZ 01225 742777 www.lucknampark.co.uk

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TRAVEL

BRILLIANT

BERLIN

PROPELLED TO THE FOREFRONT OF THE EUROPEAN DESTINATION GUIDES, THE INCREASINGLY POPULAR CITY OF BERLIN HAS PROVED UNCOMPROMISING IN ITS BID TO ESTABLISH ITSELF AS GERMANY’S COSMOPOLITAN CAPITAL. BY GEMMA DUNN

Although undeniably rich in culture and politics, Berlin's economy predominantly relies on the service sector, reasoning as to why it retains an unassailable commitment to the creative and tourist industries. Home to countless museums, universities and research establishments, the city has actively become renowned for its architecture, contemporary art influence and effervescent nightlife.

By day, Berlin is alluring and charming with no shortage of things to do and see. By night, the vibrant cultural scene takes precedence, with a huge choice of bars and clubs that cater to all tastes. As a reactive city, Berlin’s 'popular' scene has undoubtedly become more distinguished, yet, commendably there is no sense of estrangement or shortage of spots for those visitors that wish to enjoy a more traditional 'Berlin-esque' break.

Although the city has remarkably evolved, the recognition of its urban roots and compelling historical legacy is stamped on every street. It is this ability to develop, yet remain within its cultural parameters that makes this city timeless and enjoyed by all.

With clear recognition, but a refusal to be defined by history, Berlin today stands as a haven in which creativity and liberality is not only encouraged, but also celebrated. So whether you are visiting on business or pleasure, this cultural hub will not disappoint should it be your European doorstep destination of choice.

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Berlin’s Top Tourist Spots East Side Gallery: This recently restored open-air exhibition contains the largest remaining evidence of the city's historical division, the Berlin Wall. 106 artists world-wide have painted the 1.3km-long remnant in celebration of an international memorial for freedom.

Gendarmenmarkt: This remarkable neo-classical square really is the historical centre of the capital, home to the opulent concert hall, Konzerthaus, and 18th century cathedrals, Franzosischer Dom and Deutscher Dom.

Brandenburg Gate: Once the symbol of a divided city, Brandenburg Gate was originally part of the wall built near Brandenburg Tor, and also the main entrance into the city. Now, the only gate that remains of the former city wall, the reinstatement of this iconic landmark symbolises a reunified Berlin and stands as one of the most popular tourist attractions to date.

Panorama Punkt: With so much to see, there are ample opportunities to view the beautiful city of Berlin at a height, but for us Panorama Punkt in the influential hub of Potsdamer Platz, was our stature of choice.

Inspired by the clean, elegant lines of 1930's highrise architecture, the café on the 24th floor provides the perfect sanction after a long day in the city.

Reichstag Building: The impressive neo-renaissance Reichstag building was completed in 1894 and today serves as the seat for German Parliament. Following destruction in both World Wars, this historical landmark has since been restored to its best; most recently to construct a glass dome roof, enabling the public a viewing platform to the spectacular city.

With so much to see in Berlin, it is impossible to do it all, however, you can optimise your experience by tailoring the trip to suit your taste and timeframes.

Why not invest in The Berlin Welcome Card, a pass purchased via the city's Tourism Office 'Visit Berlin,' that allows you and your guests unlimited travel and discounts on many Berlin landmarks, museums, restaurants and tours.

The Holocaust Memorial: Dedicated to the memory of thousands of Jews, this memorial consists of austere grey blocks void of any design and size uniformity.

Intentional, this is said to create a sense of confusion for visitors in acknowledgement of the despair and confusion felt by the Jewish population at the hands of the Third Reich during the Nazi era.

Museum Island: If museums are your penchant, Berlin's famous Museum Island should be your destination of choice. Situated between the Spree River and the Kupfergraben, the complex consists of five museums, each unique in its memorabilia and portrayal surrounding development of civilization throughout the ages.

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However you choose to spend your time in Berlin, I am sure like me, you will agree that the city itself is enthralling; there is a certain buzz that whilst it remains understated, it equally reigns supreme. There is just something about Berlin.

insideKENT's Top Dining Destination in Berlin:

FISCHERS FRITZ DESIRABLY LOCATED WITHIN THE PRESTIGIOUS BERLIN REGENT HOTEL, THE CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED FISCHERS FRITZ SETS THE CRITERION FOR ALL THAT DEPICTS FINE DINING. YET, ALTHOUGH APT IN RESTAURATEUR TERMS, THE WORD 'FINE' FEELS SOMEWHAT INADEQUATE WHEN REFERRING TO AN EATERY OF THIS CALIBRE. A CASTE ABOVE THE REST, GOURMET RESTAURANT FISCHERS FRITZ SURPASSES ALL EXPECTATION TO OFFER A MASTER CLASS IN PERFECTION.

BY GEMMA DUNN

Having secured such deserved praise, it is no surprise Fritz holds the accolade of two Michelin stars for its sixth consecutive year; a clear testament to the level of quality sustained in a city full of contenders. Fine dining, modest. Exquisite dining, indeed.

Highly commended by friends and local Berliners alike, my guests and I were intrigued - not to mention thrilled - to be spending a snowy Saturday lunchtime in the vicinity to set our own premise.

On entrance, the sheer old-world grandeur and luxury of the residence in which Fritz dwells is somewhat overwhelming. Its marble-infused corridors and tranquil setting ooze exclusivity, whilst its cosy interior offers the ideal haven from the vibrant city that is Berlin.

Following a friendly welcome by all, we were escorted to our setting - a considered table selection, much like the others, in which the desire for intimacy between guests was at the forefront. Swiftly presented with a lunch menu and a glass of Champagne, we embarked on the impossible task of choosing between an array of French-inspired dishes, created entirely by award-winning chef Christian Lohse.

In a nod to Lohse's signature dish, my guests opted to start with the poached onsen egg, whilst I chose the aspic of king oyster mushroom.

Whilst we anticipated its arrival, a welcome appetizer and platter of delicious homemade breads took precedence on the table, priming the palate for all that was yet to come.

My guests' onsen egg was both organic and delicious, poached with precision. The moisture complimented the amalgamation of wild chanterelle mushrooms and dandelion salad, whilst the slightly salty, distinct taste of the sought after chanterelle offered the ideal balance when combined with the fruity tang of the basil pesto. The aspic of king oyster mushroom was also served to perfection. Broad beans and finely chopped oyster mushrooms were preserved by an intriguing revival of a sculpted aspic jelly topping.

Teamed with a crème fraiche base, the radish-infused exterior provided an enjoyable bitter crunch to an otherwise savoury culinary masterpiece.

Up next our main courses did not deter from exceptional. Renowned for their exquisite fish and seafood creations, skate wings with lemon, melted caper-butter and caramelised parsley root was my guest’s dish of choice. Light and refreshing, the lemon was detectable in taste, whilst not overpowering. The simple, yet effective use of caper-butter complimented the delicate taste of the skate, whilst the caramelised glaze injected a delicious sweet finish for extra indulgence.

My other guest opted for Iceland char, served with fennel and sauce Sobrassada, whilst I enjoyed Duroc pork belly, served with marinated red cabbage. The premium cut of pork was succulent with a crunchy crackling top. In addition, the red cabbage, marinated in vinaigrette, poised the perfect alternative to a potato dish that could detract from the richness of the pork.

Two faultless courses consumed and the attention moved on to dessert; a dish which can always surpass a full-up feeling. As expected from the culinary exploits we had already encountered at Fischers Fritz, we were not disappointed to be presented with an eclectic medley of desserts that would have exceeded any dessert lover’s expectation.

Mousse au chocolat proved to be the favourite for three self-confessed chocolate addicts - served with Jivara chocolate ice cream and Danish liquorice, the consistency of the bitter chocolate mousse was light in texture, but full in flavour. In comparison, the caramel braised pineapple was the dessert of choice for a real sweet tooth, seamlessly blended with the notably salt-infused Breton butter. Pudding of passion fruit and star anise and apple schlupfer with sweet wine completed the selection.

Throughout the lunch, the service we received was impeccable. From a short description of each dish as it was served, to an individual wine recommendation per dish - selected from a list of 470 - the team were faultless in their composure, knowledge and standards of service. The classic ambience of the restaurant was achieved by careful design selection - from the large ornate chandeliers that exude elegance to the hand-picked elite artwork that adorned each wall.

However, perhaps most evident was the team’s ardent desire for ultimate guest satisfaction, whether via offering a flawless first-class service or through luxurious decor, their sense of reassurance throughout our entire sitting was incomparable with many other restaurants. Truly outstanding, I can not commend destination restaurant Fischers Fritz highly enough, and wish them luck in their ongoing campaign of gastronomic brilliance.

Regent Berlin Charlottenstraße 49 10117 Berlin-Mitte Germany +49(0)30-20336-62 www.fischersfritzberlin.com

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TRAVEL

THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF

La Residencia, MALLORCA

If you’re looking for the perfect mini break with a mix of ancient and modern style, then look no further than La Residencia. Sheltered by green mountains on Mallorca’s peaceful North West coast, La Residencia is one of Spain's finest luxury boutique hotels. La Residencia was formerly owned

by Sir Richard Branson until 2002 and was then taken over by Orient Express and used as a secluded retreat for many royals and celebrities. Its twin manor houses and award-winning spa sit in lush gardens among olive and citrus groves on the edge of the artists’ village of Deià. BY ADAM READY In just under two and a half hours (flight via easyJet from either Gatwick or Stansted), we had arrived. Our drive north from Palma de Mallorca Airport only took around 45 minutes, and as the road ascended into the higher grounds, the beauty of the island became clear. As we approached the resort we had breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Tramuntana Mountains, with Teix being the highest mountain that rises up behind La Residencia.

As we pulled up the driveway, the hotel staff came to welcome us by taking our bags and parking the car. We then relaxed in the bright reception area with a chilled glass of Champagne before heading on a tour of the grounds. As La Residencia is set in the vast mountain terrain, the complex is spread across a wide area and on different levels, each with its own unique view point.

We left the main house and walked along the outdoor terrace, which runs along the front of the house to the bar and bistro. Around the next corner was a beautiful view of the sea in the distance. We passed the onsite shop and hairdressers as we approached the award-winning, fine dining restaurant El Olivo.

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Next stop was the Spa which houses a heated indoor pool and relaxing loungers along the side. Just outside of the pool is the outdoor Jacuzzi area, in the perfect location for totally relaxation. The Spa has six treatments available to pamper yourself – from the traditional Swedish massage to the innovative Thermal-Hydro-Colour Experience. Three of these benefit from open-air terraces, allowing guests to enjoy a soothing treatment while overlooking the Tramuntana Mountains and breathing in the scent of fragrant herbs.

On the level below the Spa are the sauna and steam rooms. Towels, robes and flip flops are on hand to use whilst using the facilities as well as herbal teas. La Residencia also boasts a fully equipped gym below ground, plus two outdoor swimming pools to choose from to relax in the sun and exercise those muscles. The hotel has two superb tennis courts with a resident professional coach available to help you improve your game.

Our room was located on the second floor of the building which hosts the Son Fony Restaurant on the ground floor, where breakfast is served every morning. Our superior double room was very spacious with a sofa, arm chair and desk.

The main feature was the four poster bed, with a TV that rose from the unit at the end of the bed. The bathroom had a free standing shower as well as bath and was stocked with luxurious Ren products. Each room has a Nespresso coffee machine with different flavour coffees, ihome docking station and Wi-Fi for you to enjoy your music and other media.

After unpacking we headed down for a swim and use of the spa and gym facilities to work up an appetite for dinner in the El Oliva Restaurant later that evening. The restaurant is set in a 16th-century olive press. Lit by candlelight and with the sound of light Spanish music playing in the background, the ambience was elegant and relaxing. On arrival we sat down with a glass of cava and the most amazing olive oils, salts and breads – all made in the kitchen by the chef.

My guest chose the green sprout salad with artichokes, wild mushroom and quail breast starter followed by the sirloin steak with ‘bou’ squid and garlic in an olive sauce. I went for the ‘cor de bou’ – finely sliced tomatoes with scallops Carpaccio, dressed in the hotel’s dried olive vinaigrette, followed by free range chicken with lobster and sea urchin coral sauce. The meal was absolutely amazing – all fresh and cooked to perfection using seasonal ingredients that are cultivated in the hotel’s own vegetable and herb garden.

For dessert we both chose the sponge cake and chocolate mousse from the specials menu, which left just enough room for coffees and a chocolate cup to be filled with a local liquor.

The next morning we headed down two floors for breakfast and were greeted by the friendly staff, who brought over freshly squeezed orange juice to our table. We then went to explore the continental offerings from a variety of cereals, to cheese, bread, pastries, fruit and cold meats.

After an array of treats we ordered a cooked breakfast of poached eggs and salmon to get us in good stead for the day around the pool before a drive around the island.

Around lunchtime we left the hotel and after 8km we came across a lovely old farmhouse – a restaurant called Ca’n Costa which had been running by the same family for around 35 years.

We had heard it served the best suckling pig dish on the island, so we just had to stop for lunch. We sat outside in the sun and enjoyed some bread and oils with cured ham and homemade croquettes with a pot of garlic aioli.

For my main course I ordered the shoulder of lamb which had been cooking all morning, and of course my guest ordered the suckling pig.

Both dishes came with roast potatoes, salad and were cooked in a way your oven at home wouldn’t be able to do. We could have sat all day at Ca’n Costa after our delicious lunch, but we soon got back on the road.

Later that day we arrived in the capital city Palma de Mallorca where half of the island’s population resides. Palma has the best restaurants, shops and nightlife as well as a thriving arts scene and a lively café society. It is often compared to Barcelona for its architecture and an equally desirable destination for a city break. This multicultural history is reflected in the wonderful variety of architecture visible throughout the city. Palma's masterpiece is its Gothic cathedral built on the site of a mosque by the sea front with close proximity to the harbour area.

For our evening meal we visited Marc Fosh’s Misa Braseria + Bar – a Mediterranean brasserie with a modern-rustic feel. In 2002, Marc, who is originally from Kent and now runs three restaurants in Mallorca, became the first and only

British chef to be awarded a Michelin star in Spain.

We chose from the set menu which consisted of a pre-starter of Mallorcan coca with spiced onion jam and marinated cod, then onto foie gras and apple tartar with calvados. By this time the restaurant was full and the room filled a with lively, bustling atmosphere. The main course was saffron rice with scallops and passion fruit salt, but my favourite part of the meal was the chocolate marquise with raspberry and vanilla ice cream for dessert.

After the meal we walked around the corner to check in on Marc’s Simply Fosh Restaurant, housed in the refectori of the 17th century with a modern interior of black and white, sun terrace, cascading wall of water and food that everyone can enjoy. While in the city I would highly recommend a visit to either restaurant.

After a day of driving around the island sightseeing and sampling some great food, it was time to head back to La Residencia for a much needed night’s sleep before our journey home (that’s after breakfast of course). Our stay was short and sweet but won’t be forgotten and will be talked about for a long time to come.

Hotel La Residencia by Orient Express on Canals s/n, 07179 Deià Mallorca, Spain Reservations: +34 971 63 6046 reservas@hotel-laresidencia.com www.hotel-laresidencia.com Marc Fosh Restaurants www.marcfosh.com Ca’n Costa www.cancostavalldemossa.com easyJet www.easyjet.com

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MOTORS

EXTREME BRILLIANCE

The Volvo V40

WITHOUT FAIL, THE ONE THING I WORRY ABOUT THE NIGHT BEFORE DOING A CAR ROAD-TEST IS THE WEATHER. AND ON THIS OCCASION, THE WORRIES WERE MORE THAN WELL-FOUNDED. TO SAY THE RAIN WAS TORRENTIAL ON THE FRIDAY THAT WE TOOK OUT THE SHINY NEW VOLVO V40, WOULD BE AN UNDERSTATEMENT INDEED. THANKFULLY WE WERE DRIVING A SHINY NEW VOLVO V40...

The Swedish have a saying: “There is no bad weather, only bad clothing.” Small wonder that one of their most famous exports – the Volvo – exudes the same principal from every component.

WORDS AND PHOTOS BY LUKE YATES

First thing to note is that the V40 is an extremely stylish, good looking car. Long gone are the days when a ‘hatchback’ was a somewhat ugly car driven by practical people with no soul; the V40 epitomises the ‘posh hatchback’ class with its majestic curves and angles, sportily low bonnet and roof, and sleek swept-back windscreen.

Boxy it ain’t. But good, it certainly is.

Volvo have combined style and excellent engineering, something they have been doing for some time now, and it’s no wonder that their CEO is claiming the V40 is “the car to make our competitors sit up and take notice.” A fair claim indeed!

The interior boasts the same style and highquality but no-fuss design and engineering including plenty of sumptuous leather, an

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ergonomic dashboard and central console with all manner of buttons and switches, a frameless rear-view mirror, eight-colour cabin lights, and what can only be described as a cool gear stick – it lights up! The beautifully clear floating central TFT console feeds the driver with all the relevant driving and navigation info, as well as providing access to in-car entertainment, and all of this is done sensibly, in a non-confusing fashion.

The seats in the V40 D2 that we drove had lovely heated seats, and on the aforementioned appalling day that we took the car out, their excellent performance was very much appreciated. The demisters in the car worked splendidly too, enabling us to appreciate the fantastic all-round visibility the V40 enjoys. There is loads of room in the back of the car too, and the rear-seats are placed higher than the front ones, giving a very good forward view.

The V40, as you might expect from Volvo, also has a tremendous amount of well thought out

safety features onboard, both for those in the car, and those on the outside. There are airbags to protect the driver and passengers as well as the WHIPS antiwhiplash system. Combined with Cross Traffic Alert (which senses side-incoming stuff when you are reversing out of a parking space), the laser-operated City Safety System (which detects if a car in front is braking suddenly and does likewise in accordance) and Pedestrian Detection (which assesses if a pedestrian might walk out in a jay-walking stylee, and warns you accordingly) the Volvo V40 is surely about as safe as a car could currently be.

to both business and private users. And despite these impressive economy statistics it still manages to be a very reasonable performing car, with 0-62mph in 12.3secs and a top speed of 118mph.

On that fateful Friday, the rains came down and the floods went up, the winds howled dismally, my shoe let in water and even my trusty photography umbrella blew inside out. My camera had to be dismantled and dried out. But the trusty Volvo V40 seemed to shrug off the weather with no concern whatsoever. What I had thought would turn out to be a disappointing day, and a failed road-test, had turned out to be a real eye-opener to what was a very impressive offering from Volvo.

Just one more example of extreme brilliance in this area: on striking a pedestrian the V40 deploys an airbag from the rear of the bonnet, which covers the area of the windscreen which might usually come into contact with their head. Genius!

Lipscomb Volvo Forstal Road, Aylesford, Maidstone ME20 7XA 0845 338 9905 Ashford Road, Chartham, Canterbury CT4 7HH 0845 338 9902 www.lipscomb.co.uk

The D2 has a 1.6-litre, 115bhp four-cylinder (D2) engine, and it responded very nicely around town. The steering, handling and brakes were all excellent, particularly considering the incredible amount of water around that day. The low, comfortable ride was absolutely flawless, and all in all a very enjoyable and relaxing car to drive.

Economy-wise the D2 V40 claims a staggering 78.5mpg and emissions of just 94g/km, making it a very attractive option

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7

MOTORS

ENTER THE

the vw golf VII 1.4 PETROL

A N D

P H O T O S

B Y

L U K E

Y A T E S

TWO EARLY BUT VERY SIGNIFICANT EVENTS SHAPE MY VIEW OF THE VW GOLF; BOTH OF THEM FROM THE EIGHTIES. ONE WAS THE BRILLIANT ADVERT DIRECTED BY MY PHOTOGRAPHY HERO DAVID BAILEY WHERE A LARGE-HAIRED PAULA HAMILTON LEAVES HER SWANKY TOWNHOUSE AND HUSBAND FOREVER, DESTROYING ALL HER MOST VALUABLE POSSESSIONS AND YET CAN'T BEAR TO BE PARTED FROM HER VW GOLF. THIS WAS ALSO THE BIRTH OF THE LEGENDARY STRAPLINE, ‘IF ONLY EVERYTHING IN LIFE WAS AS RELIABLE AS A VOLKSWAGEN,’ AND PERHAPS THE BEGINNING OF THE END FOR FUR COATS.

The other was learning (probably from John Craven's Newsround) that kids were copying the Beastie Boys, and stealing the badges from the front of Volkswagens, which resulted in a lot of very tired, very angry looking VW drivers. I definitely remember they tended to look somewhat surly.

I am sure that these two unrelated events helped to make the Golf the icon that is was, and still is.

They made me personally think the VW must be really special.

When you have it drummed into you from an early age like this – that something is important, special or exceptional – it stays with you into your adult life and becomes a sort of value. So when I was told we were reviewing the new VW Golf, a very large part of me was excited. This would be an experience, and it was! VW have taken the Golf, which has been a thoroughbred amongst compact hatchbacks since it first arrived, and completely rebuilt it. Enter the VII...

The original Golf has stood the test of time. Sure it's changed in its looks to keep up with fashion – it's become more curvy and the usual array of lines, bumps and technology has been added and subtracted. But essentially it was a fantastic car, so it remained constant. The thing about the VII is, it's even better!

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The newest incarnation is sleek and elegant, but still manages to ooze Golf-ness from its pores, with help from the upright tail and quintessentially VW C-Pillar. The interior finish is sumptuously implemented in the finest materials, and the Golf is fully stocked with the latest gadgets, all rendered with lovely high-quality buttons and dials.

Bluetooth, DAB and a whopping great 5.8inch screen all play their part in making the in-car experience very pleasant indeed. The VII also has plenty of room in the back for passengers, and even sports lots of luggage space in the boot.

When you are driving the Golf through town, it is small, punchy and responsive. Out on the fun country lanes the steering is beautifully balanced, the handling is satisfyingly rugged and the car's body control is flawless. At just over eight seconds for 0-62, the Golf is more than ‘nippy’, and when you get it onto the motorway the Golf is comfortable and feels safe and elegant – in fact more than many bigger cars.

Thanks to a satisfyingly grunty 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine able to generate 140bhp, and with a top speed of 132mph, which utilises the fantastic Active Cylinder Management technology (which shuts down 2 of the 4 cylinders when the engine is not under load) so superbly, the VII is fun but frugal too. It really does manage to be everything to everyone. With style.

The Golf boasts all the usual and essential safety features, as well as some nice flourishes of its own. One of my favourites being the adaptive cruise control – something I've been yearning for in every car I've owned with cruise. As you might imagine, it works superbly in the Golf.

Sadly as you grow older and wiser, you realise that the world actually doesn't go on just the same, as the song in that 80s David Bailey's advert might have us believe. For example, in these post-Beastie days, owners deliberately debadge their OWN Volkswagens to look cool – how sad is that?

Thankfully we can still confidently say, “If only everything in life was as reliable (and as enjoyable) as a Volkswagen.”

JCB VOLKSWAGEN ASHFORD THE PARADE ORBITAL PARK ASHFORD TN24 0HT 01233 210236 www.thejcbgroup.co.uk/volkswagen

GADGETS

insideKENT’s

Favourite Gadgets FOR 2013 iMusic Pillow If you’re a lover of audiobooks, music or radio at bedtime then you’ll love the iMusic Pillow.

Now you can listen to your favourite audio through your pillow as you’re relaxing in bed.

Sound will be audible only to you, so your partner will be happy and can doze undisturbed. The pillow can be connected to any audio device with a standard headphone jack. £14.99 www.menkind.co.uk

Mophie Juice Pack Plus for iPhone 4 This enhanced capacity iPhone 4 battery case will more than double the time iPhone users have to rock, talk and surf. The award-winning design is ultra-thin and lightweight, providing protection and power. It’s also now available in oodles of funky colours including cyan, magenta, yellow and white. $99.95 www.mophie.com

Polaroid GL10 Instant Mobile Printer Brought to you by Polaroid in association with their esteemed Creative Director, Lady Gaga (yes, honest), this stylish little rechargeable gizmo prints the images trapped on smartphones and digital cameras on the fly, via Bluetooth, churning out quality 3”x4” images with or without a classic Polaroid border (or your own customised border via the free Android App) in under 45 seconds. It’ll even print images from your PC or Mac (via USB or Bluetooth). £99.99 www.firebox.com

Range Rover Evoque Wireless Optical Mouse Liven up your computer and your day with this stunningly detailed wireless optical mouse in the shape of the Range Rover Evoque. The Click Car wireless optical mouse is ready to be taken for a test drive and comes with a 2.4Ghz Nano USB receiver with a 10-metre range. The mouse also has working LED lamps both front and rear for that realistic look. www.hotcraze.co.uk

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Logicom SPY-C Tank Swap your old RC car for this futuristic tank with a moveable camera, all controllable from an iOS or Andriod device! The tank creates its own WiFi hotspot allowing you to control it both indoors and out, plus it even has a night vision mode so you can carry on driving even when it’s dark. Not only that, but you can also use it as a drivable walkie talkie! That’s right, drive through to the kitchen and request another beverage (pronto of course) without ever needing to leave the comfort of your chair! £149.95 www.red5.co.uk

Belkin Rockstar Multi-Headphone Splitter RockStar makes it fun to create your own music experience. Connect up to five headphones, and your iPod, to start sharing. Or, add another iPod to mix songs and listen together. Works with all MP3 and DVD players, as well as other portable media devices. £9.99 www.belkin.com/uk

Klipsch iGroove HG iPod Speaker System Unlike other docking speaker systems on the market, the iGroove HG works with most MP3 player brands as well as any gadget that has an audio out or headphone jack utilising a standard miniplug including cell phones, gaming machines and portable satellite radios. A true two-way system, the iGroove HG gets its dynamic soul courtesy of dual 2.5-inch woofers in a ported enclosure, premium crossover networks and dual 1inch MicroTractrix™ Horn-loaded tweeters. £59.99 www.amazon.co.uk

Jabra Cruiser2 In-Car Speakerphone Enjoy crystal clear conversations in your car, while keeping your hands firmly planted on the steering wheel – all with the Jabra Cruiser2 Bluetooth™ incar speakerphone. No installation necessary, just clip your Jabra Cruiser2 to the sun visor of the car, and go. You can also listen to podcasts, GPS directions or wirelessly stream your playlist to the Jabra Cruiser2, or to your car's stereo system, using the in-car speakerphone's FM transmitter and A2DP technology. £38.99 www.amazon.co.uk

Pico Genie A100 iPhone Projector This clever gadget is more than just a tough case for your precious mobile – it’s also a powerful projector, speaker and back-up battery in one. So forget passing your phone around to share photos with your friends. Just splash them across the nearest wall! With a spectacular 60” viewing area it’s the ultimate way to view your snaps. Not to mention browsing the net, reading documents, playing games and watching videos. The A100 will boost the sound so the whole room can hear and project whatever is on your iPhone’s screen for up to three hours between charges. £199.99 www.firebox.com

Thumbs Up! Spy Camera Pen Disguised as a fully working pen, this miniature video camera, is perfect for covert surveillance. If you need a spy camera that's body mounted, there's nothing easier or more discreet than just putting this pen camcorder in a shirt pocket for a full view of everything you see in front of you. Can record in full-colour and sound and has 2GB of internal memory which can store up to 15 hours of footage. £49.99 www.menkind.co.uk

SanDisk Cruzer Glide USB Flash Drive The Cruzer Glide USB flash drive has a sleek, streamlined design with an attractive black and red color scheme.

Available in capacities up to 128GB, the Cruzer Glide USB Flash Drive lets you carry your favorite media with you. You'll be able to store, share, and transport hours of HD video, entire photo albums, your music library and important documents. £31.32 (64GB) www.amazon.co.uk

FitBit Zip™ Wireless Activity Tracker Get a kick out of fitness with this little device. It tracks your steps, distance, and calories burned – and syncs those stats to your computer and select smartphones. In doing so, it celebrates how much more you do each day. Zip™ encourages you to set goals, challenge friends, and go farther – one step at time. £49.99 www.fitbit.com/uk

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GADGETS

THE HOTTEST GADGETS

from HOTcraze EXCLUSIVE discount to insideKENT readers! Use this code to claim 10% off your next order from www.HOTcraze.co.uk :

BAXDO FlaskTie Nobody needs to know why you started wearing a necktie! This is a tie with a difference – a tie with a hidden flask! Each FlaskTie comes equipped with a TieBladder holding approximately 250ml of your favourite tipple for your drinking pleasure.

Located at the end of the back slip is the TieBite valve mouthpiece offering hands-free hydration with ease of use.

HOTcraze price: £24.99 (RRP: £29.99) from www.HOTcraze.co.uk

Extreme Fliers R/C Micro Drone The Micro Drone is the next generation of semi-autonomous flying gadgets. It is very easy to fly and has bags of tricks up its sleeve. A fourchannel quad rotor, which can fly in all directions, perform agile manoeuvres with ease as well as perform pre-programmed mid-air stunts. For indoor and outdoor use.

HOTcraze price: £65.99 (RRP: £69.99) from www.HOTcraze.co.uk

WIN

KENT10%

EX2 Bone 204 Vibration Earphones with Swarovski Crystal Do you want to be noticed in the street listening to your favourite tunes? Then get a pair of these stunning glitzy earphones. The EX2 earphones are a revolutionary product producing a super 3D sound with woofer effect enhanced with sparkling precision-cut Swarovski crystal. Available in pink or black.

HOTcraze Price: £39.99 (RRP: £49.99) from www.HOTcraze.co.uk

Hands-Free Car Mount with Grip Pad The ultimate universal in-car mount! The hands free car mount with grip pad holds your smartphone, iPhone, iPad or any other device while you’re on the road. This simple and easy to use mount holds your device securely in the exact desired position and allows you to see the caller and answer the call without taking your eyes off the road.

HOTcraze Price: £19.99 (RRP: £29.99) from www.HOTcraze.co.uk

BLUECON Bluetooth Remote Control for iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch This Bluetooth remote control is compatible with your iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch. With this great little unit, you will be able to take pictures, control music and video, power ON/OFF, stroll up, down, left and right and more – all of this remotely. It also works when your device is in sleep mode! So go on and add value to your Apple product with this awesome tiny device.

HOTcraze Price: £34.99 (RRP: £39.99) from www.HOTcraze.co.uk

Talking Ted 16” – Official TED The Movie from Seth MacFarlane, worth £129.99

Carry around with you everywhere you go the hilarious whimsical wonder of Seth MacFarlane's Ted film!

This official Talking Ted plush will keep you entertained for a countless amount of time. The talking Ted looks so cute and innocent, but really he's nothing of the sort and actually quite the raunchy little guy.

For your chance to win, answer the following question and enter online at www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk/win: How many different sizes of Talking Teds are available on the HOTcraze website? a) 1 b) 3 c) 4

THE LATEST GADGETS AND GIZMOS from the Number 1 Kent Online Gadget Site. FREE DELIVERY on all orders and a FREE Gift with all orders over £30.

05601 264421 www.HOTcraze.co.uk

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Avante Partnership Cedric Frederick is Chief Executive of Avante Partnership, a Kent-based charity that primarily cares for and supports older people and people living with dementia, as well as people with disabilities. Avante also supports children, young people and families.

In total, Avante Partnership cares for and supports over 3,000 people a year, employs almost 2,000 staff and has an annual income of £31m.

day out, is becoming more and more difficult.

Providers are having to make uncomfortable compromises in order to achieve that objective.

In a 35-year career in the public sector, Cedric has held a series of senior positions in the housing association, local authority and charity sectors.

How do you believe Avante Partnership is different to other care providers?

That’s a more difficult question to answer than you might think, as I don’t know enough about other providers. What I know is that Avante Partnership employs nearly 2,000 people who are totally committed to making a difference to the lives of our residents and service users every day. They have a passion and enthusiasm for this work that sometimes leaves me shaking my head in amazement. I’m proud that they hold me and my senior colleagues to account, to ensure that organisationally we do not compromise our values as we navigate our way through these challenging times.

An ex England international basketball player, Cedric was named as one of Britain’s 100 Most Influential Black People in 2008, 2010, 2011 and 2012 and is described as ‘the unsung hero of the Third Sector, who has changed as many lives outside of work as he has in his job’. insideKENT asked Cedric about Avante Partnership and his views on the care sector: What do you think is the biggest issue facing the care sector over the next 12 months?

Without doubt, maintaining the quality and integrity in service delivery in the face of increasing financial pressures. Every provider wants to provide care and support services that exceed the expectations of residents, service users and their families, but delivering against that commitment day in and

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Tell us about your view on personalisation of care?

For me, personalisation of care is about what I call ‘Magic Moments’. In most care settings, there are literally hundreds of interactions between members of staff and our residents and services

users. Some of these may only last a few seconds, whilst others will last much longer. Each one of these interactions – no matter how functional, be they supporting a resident to get up in the morning, or to have their lunch – has to be special and not cursory or mechanistic. The member of staff has to totally commit to that moment to ensure that the person they’re caring for or supporting intuitively feels connected with the interaction and a warmth from the member of staff.

De Gelsey House 1 Jubilee Way Faversham ME13 8GD 01795 597400 www.avantepartnership.co.uk /avantepartnership @avantesupport

we

mum!

Where would we be without our mums? On 10th March this year, show your mum how much she means to you with a Mother’s Day gift a bit out of the ordinary, a bit quirky and a lot of fun!

Pink Toolkit The Pink Toolkit is stuffed full of useful DIY bits – hammer, screwdriver, pliers, Allen keys and more, all housed in a practical, hardy, yet super cute multi-tiered toolkit with carry handle. £29.99 www.monsterstuff.co.uk

Iris Aroma Diffuser The Iris Aroma Diffuser boasts a modern spherical design and is available in a range of colours.

The Iris uses modern ultrasonic technology, tap water, aromatherapy and light therapy to create a sensual and calming ambience; perfect to ease mum’s body and mind from the stresses of a busy life. £49.99 www.madebyzen.com

Pandora Mother’s Day Bracelets These sterling silver Mother’s Day Bracelets come in a variety of fabulous configurations, and can include a limited-edition two-tone teddy bear charm, the new enamel mother and son/daughter charm, mother of pearl heart charms and lots more.

Prices start from £55 www.pandora.net

No.3 London Dry Gin We know, it’s not your typical Mother’s Day gift, but we think mum would love to sit back and relax with a superb G&T this Mothering Sunday. Only three fruits and three spices with a strong juniper kick, 46% ABV – classic, simple and lovely. £33.65 (gift pack) Available at Sainsbury's and Waitrose

Tresor Paris ISL Diamond Watch The new Tresor Paris ISL Diamond Watches come in an array of fun bright and muted coloured designs with interchangeable bezels, so you can dress up your watch to match any outfit.

Colours include turquoise (shown), silver, pink, gold, green and more. £99 www.tresorparis.com

Taylor’s Eye Witness Knives Fun, funky and fashionable, cooking preparation has never been more stylish than with the new range of statement high-performance knives from Taylor’s Eye Witness. Give mum the ‘Wild’ knife set and transport her to an African safari. Ideal for the truly fashion conscious, mum can now cut her carrots with a knife that matches her leopard-print shoes! £80 (5-piece printed knife block set) www.taylors-eye-witness.co.uk

BassBuds Your colour, your style – the largest colour range of ear buds in the world.

With 20 stunning colours across two exciting collections, it’s no wonder why BassBuds are the most sought after, high-performance in ear headphones around! £34.95 www.bassbuds.co.uk

AppSing Transform mum’s phone or media device into the most amazing karaoke machine.

AppSing comes complete with microphone and speakers to recreate a karaoke night in your living room. Once you have downloaded your favourite songs from the AppStore you are on your way!

Whether mum can sing or screech, her voice will be played through the speakers in crystal clear stereo sound. £39.99 www.apptoyz.com

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ENTERTAINMENT

insideKENT INTERVIEWS TV AND RADIO PRESENTER

Dave Berry insideKENT's ALEX PERSEVAL CATCHES UP WITH THE CAPITAL RADIO DJ TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HIS LIFE ON PRIME-TIME RADIO AND ONGOING SUPPORT FOR DEMELZA HOSPICE. You’ve been supporting Demelza for several years now and have recently been made vice president. How do you feel about being awarded this title?

[Laughs]. This is a funny story. The reason I’m laughing is that they sent me an email to make me this incredible offer, but I didn’t receive it. It was only when I went to do a Christmas carol reading for Demelza at the Naval College in Greenwich that there were all these whispers going around saying how good it was that I was made vice president, and I was like, “What are you talking about?” It was very odd but it topped off the afternoon and it certainly sounds swanky so I’m very pleased.

How did you find hosting your first Demelza music festival, Music on the Hill, last year?

It was great; I help out where ever and whenever I can. We're currently working on Music on the Hill for this year, so I’m trying to sort out some bands for that. I’ve built up a great relationship with the kids and their families over the years, so it’s great to spend time with them. There is a real family vibe down there.

Last summer, you cut the ribbon to mark the opening of the new facilities at the Demelza Kent Hospice in Sittingbourne. Have you seen how these have since benefited the kids?

I had the honour of cutting the ribbon to mark the occasion, but it was a culmination of a lot of hard work and a lot of very generous donations – £1.3million – that made these facilities possible.

This meant we could afford the hydrotherapy pool for the kids ? I presumed it would be a Jacuzzi but it’s more like an Olympic swimming pool. We were also able to put Jacuzzi baths in

all of the kids’ rooms, which means they have all they need in one space and can therefore spend more time with their families.

More recently you were involved in the Women's Aid 'Real Man' campaign. How important is it for other celebrities to show their support for charitable organisations?

It is very important. It’s fantastic when you hear about those swimming the channel and putting in so much hard work for the charities that they are raising money for. I love to help as much as I can so if I get asked to contact a certain band or artist to play at Music on the Hill, then of course it’s no problem for me to put that phone call in.

As far as I see it, what I do is very little compared to what the rest of the team do for Demelza, but if they believe having me as a figurehead helps, I’m there. I have Demelza, Charlton Athletic Community Trust, and of course I do bits for Red Nose Day and Sports Relief. It’s great to give as much exposure to the smaller charities, as it is the larger.

You have been co-hosting the prime time slot on Capital Radio for a year now. Do the early mornings really get any easier, or is this just a well-rehearsed myth?

As a host it’s my responsibility to never complain about getting up early because most of the listeners get up at the same time as me or earlier.

One of the great things about my job is unless I have any meetings or Demelza events, I finish work at 10am every day ? and believe you me, that is one of the greatest single things that could happen to a man. I’m the guy whistling, getting on an empty tube with a newspaper under my arm, knowing I have a free day ahead of me.

With such a hectic schedule you must relish time out. How productive is your day after finishing at the radio show?

It changes each week but one of the things I really look for in my working life is variety, and I’m lucky to have that. Back in the summer I was in my normal routine of getting up at 4.45am and finishing at 10am, but then I would get taken by car to the ITV towers to pre-record inserts for Beat TV ? a worldwide Olympics live chat show on ITV2. After I would get back in the car to go and rehearse the live show, then go back to my dressing room to do press chats over the phone, before going back to do the live show at 6.30pm.

Finally I would get home, have dinner and a glass of wine before getting back up the next morning to do it all again. This year, since returning to work after Christmas, I’ve had nothing to do! I’ve been finishing at 10am but just going to the gym, being interactive on Twitter and beating Real Madrid on Fifa with Charlton Athletic.

What’s your favourite part of Kent?

By default it's Hoo Marina Park in Chatham, which is where my Nan lived before moving back to Charlton to live near the family. It was just really sweet, peaceful and quiet. After I first started going out on a Saturday night I used to get in really late and drunk, and on Sunday mornings my parents would drive us down to Marina Park.

I just used to lay on my Nan's bed completely hungover listening to the conifer trees swaying in the wind; I had many great memories there.

Follow Dave on Twitter @daveberry_tweet, or listen to Dave on the Capital London Breakfast Show weekday mornings from 6am and Saturdays from 8am – www.capitalfm.com

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SPORTS

insideKENT INT ERVIEW S FOUNDER OF

Invicta Valiants,

DAVID RAMZAN

Tell us a bit about your background - your career, connection to Kent and your love of football.

I was born in Greenwich in 1954, and only first moved to Kent during my early twenties.

Throughout my childhood there were few opportunities to travel far on our holidays, so instead we would take a trip to Kent for a week or two during the summer months - despite now having spent the majority of my life living in the county.

Although growing up in Greenwich meant I was surrounded by history and heritage, as a school boy my main interests revolved around playing football, messing about on the Thames, or going to Charlton Athletic matches.

After leaving school I joined a small London graphic design business as a studio junior - which in reality is a messenger come tea-boy - then at the age of nineteen I took the summer off to work down in Cornwall. On my return it was back to graphic design, whereby I took up a position as an art director working for agencies based in London and Kent. Eventually I began working for myself in design, illustration, fine art and publishing.

What sparked your passion to volunteer in disability football?

This came about because my son, who has a visual impairment, wasn’t able to find a club to play for. At that time Charlton Athletic were the only club running children’s disability football sessions, so I began taking him there, which is where I met Barry Simmons, Charlton’s disability

development officer. Barry encouraged me to get involved in disability football coaching, something I’d never thought about before. As a youngster it was easy for me to play football with friends wherever I wanted; in the park and on the streets, and in local teams. However, children with disabilities don't share the same opportunities, so I took my coaching qualifications and started working voluntarily in disability football, and later professionally with Charlton Athletic Community Coaching.

How have you seen football help children with special needs - both physically and mentally?

The benefits sporting activities can bring to children with disabilities are immense. It’s not just about keeping physically fit; there are many, including helping them to improve their mobility, social interaction and communication skills, all of which have a positive impact on their health and wellbeing.

Tell us about Invicta Valiants - who can become a player, and how can volunteers become involved?

The club was formed in 2004, and first came about due to the distance myself and my son were having to travel to attend the visually impaired Charlton team I had been coaching. Instead I decided to form a football club in Ashford, close to where we lived. The club, now in its eighth year, has over forty registered players and any child or young adult with special needs or disabilities can come and join in training and compete against other disability teams in the Kent FA Disability League each month.

Training takes place every Sunday between 10.00-11.00am at Pitchside, Stanhope Road, Ashford. The club volunteers, coaches and committee members, are made up from the player’s parents and carers, although anyone can get involved in volunteering, as a coach or help out on the committee. The needs of players with special needs and disabilities can be

extremely varied and complex, but the outcomes are extremely rewarding. Invicta Valiants players don’t consider themselves as playing disability football; as far as they're concerned, they’re just playing football. Although we do encourage children to play football for fun, players can also progress through the FA pathways and compete in county disability football, England disability impairment teams and the Special Olympics.

You're now an established author with four books under your belt, and a fifth on the way.

Tell us about your newest literary endeavour about Charlton Athletic FC. I’m not sure if I would qualify myself as an established author, as the majority of my books are pictorial based, although I have recently finished my first full text publication, Three Greenwich Built Ships, of which is currently with my publisher, Amberley awaiting editing. My publisher must be pleased with my efforts as I have been commissioned to produce a new full colour pictorial history of Charlton Athletic FC, after which will be followed by longer text version, featuring the clubs associated groups, Supporters Club, Former Players Association and Disability Supporters Association.

After taking your FA qualifications, you went from graphic designer to football coach to working in education. Which path have you found most rewarding?

As a qualified football coach I began working in education specifically because it was becoming increasingly more difficult to find work through self-employment. An opportunity came along to work with children in sport and education, I took it, and it has definitely proved the most rewarding.

All in all, I have three fantastic children, and if it hadn’t been for my eldest son wanting to play football, then I doubt I would have become as involved as I am working in education and football today.

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LONDON IN ASSOCIATION WITH

WHAT’S GOING ON IN LONDON Mother’s Day in London

St. Patrick’s Day Festival

10 March

17 March

Show your mum just how important she is this Mother’s Day, and shower her with chocolates, cards and flowers that are sure to bring a smile to her face. If you have a bit more room in your budget and you want to make this year particularly special, then why not take her out for a meal at one of the capital’s exquisite restaurants, and maybe follow it up with her favourite film. London is packed full of exciting things to see and do, so why not take her up to see the view from the Shard, or perhaps explore the theatres to see what delights adorn the West End stage. www.viewlondon.co.uk/mothers-day.aspx

Flamenco Festival 15-27 March Some of the finest flamenco dancers in the world head to Sadler’s Wells for the eagerly anticipated tenth anniversary of this popular annual festival. Featuring ten fascinating productions as well as further events outside of the main building, the 2013 Flamenco Festival will showcase the best dancers and musicians that flamenco has to offer, from the traditional right through to the experimental. Highlights of this year’s festival include the legendary Spanish dancer Eva Yerbabuena; hip hop flamenco from Lenacay; Romances – a captivating collaborative piece featuring singer Sandra Carrasco and dancers Valeriano Paños and Rafael Estévez; and flamenco puro superstar, Farruquito. www.viewlondon.co.uk/tickets/flamenco-festival-tickets-feature592.html

Alice in Wonderland at the Royal Opera House 15 March – 13 April ©Johan Persson/ROH

Alice tumbles down the rabbit hole once again as the Royal Opera House welcomes Christopher Wheeldon’s stunning balletic take on Lewis Carroll’s much-loved tale, performed by the Royal Ballet. First staged in February 2011, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland was the Royal Ballet’s first full-length work for sixteen years, and the production was instantly heralded a classic.

And with choreography from Wheeldon, a stunning score from Joby Talbot and suitably fantastical set design from Bob Crowley, there’s plenty of pedigree working behind the scenes, ensuring that the 2013 reprisal is once again a theatrical tour-de-force that will no doubt prove hugely popular with fans of ballet and the arts in general. www.viewlondon.co.uk/whatson/alice-in-wonderland-at-royal-operahouse-article-12062.html

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Whether you’re an Irishman away from home, or just keen to have fun, celebrate the patron saint of Ireland with the Trafalgar Square St. Patrick’s Day Festival this March.

With a host of Irish themed dancing, live music, storytelling and stand up comedy, every age group is catered for at this festival, however the highlight may well be the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Starting in Green Park, the parade features a multitude of brightly coloured floats, marching bands and dancers that will meander through the capital till they reach Trafalgar Square to join the rest of the festivities. Expect a flurry of green, white and orange flags to adorn the streets and don’t forget to grab a pint of Guinness before the day is through in what promises to be a festival full of excitement and high spirits. www.viewlondon.co.uk/whatson/st-patricks-day-festival-article6243.html

Easter in London 31 March Get ready for Easter in London this year as the capital hosts a multitude of activities for you and your family to enjoy. You can expect all the chocolatiers in the city to be filled to the brim with exquisite eggs and chocolate rabbits for you to buy for friends and family, and you can get involved with egg hunts, craft workshops and live music in celebration of this spring holiday. So why not grab your family and have a fantastic Easter Sunday out in the capital?

For those who wish to mark this religious festival with more traditional celebrations, there will be plenty of services, messiah concerts and films rejoicing the resurrection of Christ for you to attend. www.viewlondon.co.uk/easter-in-london.aspx

The fastest way to London...

For more details about train times visit www.southeasternrailway.co.uk

Detling International Antiques & Collectors Fair Up to 500 exhibitors in two buildings, shopping arcades, marquees & outside offering a wide range of items from ceramics, glass, vintage clothing, furniture, books, metalware, kitchenalia, postcards, pictures & much more.

Sat 20th - Sun 21st

April

Sat: Early Entry 8.30 - 10am - £6 Sat: Public 10am - 5pm - £4 Sun: 10am - 3.30pm - £4 Kent County Showground, Detling, ME14 3JF

Tel: 01636 676531 www.b2bevents.info

3 GREAT SHOWS, HUGE SAVINGS!

SAVE ££’S WHEN YOU TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR MULTI-BUY OFFER. BOOK FOR 2 OF THE SHOWS BELOW AND PAY £25 PER TICKET, BOOK 3 AND PAY £20 PER TICKET Applicable to top price tickets on Mon – Thu eves only. Subject to availability – capped at 100 tickets per performance, terms and conditions apply. Not applicable to previous purchased tickets.

Previous cast

STARRING GWEN TAYLOR AND DON WARRINGTON

STARRING JULIAN GLOVER NICOLA McAULIFFE AND GAY SOPER

DRIVING MISS DAISY

MAURICE’S JUBILEE

MON 18 – SAT 23 MAR

TUE 26 – SAT 30 MAR

Churchill Theatre Bromley

STARRING BEVERLEY CALLARD RAY QUINN AND JESS ROBINSON THE RISE AND FALL OF

LITTLE VOICE

MON 6 – SAT 11 MAY

0844 871 7620 Groups Line (8+ tickets) 0844 871 7696 www.atgtickets.com/bromley (bkg fee)

(bkg fee)

KentEvents EVENTS

CHINESE STATE CIRCUS: YIN YANG // 6 & 7 MARCH

This unique extravaganza showcases only the best in entertainment.

The show features traditional Chinese acts including the amazing Bicycle Act, foot juggling with drums, the famous swinging poles, the sensational controtionist and the dynamic hoop divers. Suitable for an audience of all ages.

Weds 6 March: 8pm, Thurs 7 March 5pm & 8pm; Tickets £17-£26 Leas Cliff Hall, The Leas, Folkestone CT20 2DZ www.atgtickets.com / 0844 871 3015

DETLING FLEA & COLLECTORS FAIR // 17 MARCH

A one-day extravaganza of antiques, collectables, house clearance and anything in between. Inside exhibitors in the Clive Emson and outside close by.

Entrance: £3, from 8.30am to 3.30pm Kent County Showground, Detling, Maidstone ME14 3JF www.b2bevents.info / 01636 676531

BACH’S ST JOHN PASSION // 24 MARCH

DON’T FORGET MOTHER’S DAY! SUNDAY 10TH MARCH

SEAL AND WILDLIFE WATCHING TRIPS // 15, 29, 30 MARCH & 2, 8, 27, 28 APRIL

Cruise at your leisure and see beautiful seals in the River Stour – you will never forget the excitement when you spot your first wild seal! Enjoy this exciting one and a half hour trip to a local seal colony in a National Nature Reserve, and don’t forget your binoculars and cameras! £20 per person Sea Searcher Boat Trips, The Kiosk Pier Yard, Ramsgate Royal Harbour, Ramsgate CT11 8LS www.seasearcher.co.uk / 07837 562076

HAIRY BIKERS: LARGER THAN LIVE // 16 MARCH

It’s been over two years since the Bikers did their last stage tour, and they can’t wait to do it all over again – only this time it’s going to be bigger, bolder, funnier and packed with more food and laughs than ever before.

There will be some cooking, a sprinkling of special guests (at some shows), and a chance for some of the audience members to enjoy a slap-up meal on stage courtesy of the (Hairy) chefs.

7.30pm; Tickets: £25 Leas Cliff Hall, The Leas, Folkestone CT20 2DZ www.atgtickets.com / 0844 871 3015

Kent Chorus with the Meridian Chamber Orchestra (leader George Clifford) playing period instruments, with internationally acclaimed soloists Neil Jenkins, Michael Bundy, Lesley-Jane Rogers, Glenn Kesby and Jon English.

Tickets: £14 adult, £5 child Salomons Victorian Theatre, Broomhill Road, Southborough TN3 0TG kentchorus@meridianvoices.org / 07803 605820 www.kentchorus.co.uk / Tickets: www.wegottickets.com/event/205847

I LOVE VINTAGE FAIR // 29 MARCH

Vintage-style fair with stalls selling clothes, household gifts, jewellery, cards and gifts. Enjoy high tea in the Mama Feelgoods vintage-style café.

10am-4pm; Tickets £3, children under 16 FREE Quex House & Gardens, Quex Park, Birchington CT7 0BH www.quexmuseum.org

PLANET THANET EASTER BEER FESTIVAL // 29-30 MARCH

Now firmly established as one of the leading beer festivals in the South East, the Thanet branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) will once again be showcasing the finest products from brewers and cider makers from all over the UK and beyond. The Planet Thanet Easter Beer Festival 2013 promises to be bigger and better than ever with over 200 different draught real ales, ciders and perries on offer. Hot and cold food will be served and also an interesting selection of foreign bottled beers.

Opens 12noon both days; Admission: Friday £5, Saturday £3 Margate Winter Gardens, Fort Crescent, Margate CT9 1HX www.easterbeerfestival.org.uk

MAGIC DINNER WITH ETIENNE PRADIER AND JOEL ELY // 16 MARCH

EASTER IS SUNDAY 31 MARCH!

This evening promises to be a unique experience of fine dining and close magical illusion. Internationally acclaimed magician Etienne Pradier will be performing his award-winning magic at your table, while you and your friends enjoy a three-course seasonal dinner by chef Joel Ely. Etienne is twice recipient of the allusive Magic Circle award, and has entertained both the Royal Family and celebrities alike and continues to wow audiences across the globe. This unique experience is guaranteed to have you and your friends talking amazed and entertained.

7pm; £45 per person / £320 for a table of 8 Alexander Centre, 15 Preston Street, Faversham ME13 8NZ www.365projects.co.uk/magic-dinner

See page 129 for a listing of Kent Easter Egg Trails with Cadbury and the National Trust.

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SPRING FOOD FAYRE // 30 MARCH – 1 APRIL

Buoyed by the continuing success of the Broadstairs Food Festival that traditionally comes to the Kent town the first weekend in October, the historic seaside town is to host a Spring Food Fayre this Easter weekend (Saturday 30th March to Monday 1st April). The new Spring Food Fayre will feature over 50 stalls showcasing the finest food and drink produce from the Garden of England.

There will also be a number of stalls featuring the best of local arts and crafts.

10am-5pm Saturday 30 March – Monday 1 April Pierremont Park, Broadstairs CT10 1JX

EASTER SUNDAY LUNCH // 31 MARCH

Bring the family and enjoy a special three-course lunch, with coffee in the modern Canterbury Cathedral Lodge restaurant. After lunch, there will be an Easter egg hunt in the beautiful Campanile garden for the children.

Adults: £22.95, Children: £10.95 Canterbury Cathedral Lodge, The Precincts, Canterbury CT1 2EH www.canterburycathedrallodge.org

MEDWAY FESTIVAL OF STEAM & TRANSPORT // 31 MARCH – 1 APRIL

Joining the varied assortment of specialist vehicles that visitors have come to know and love over the past decade, there will be a new indoor music arena with a folk and blues stage accompanied by hearty Kentish foods and a real ale and Kentish cider bar. In the Railway Workshop you will be visiting Steampunk Central which will welcome an array of traders and exhibitors bringing you the sights of the wonderful world of Steampunk following the exhibition - Whirrs, Cogs and Thingymabobs. The Modelling Zone has a bigger undercover space for more activities, traders, displays and an Airfix Model Competition. Also enjoy close-up animal encounters, Shire horse rides, land train rides and parades of steam and vehicles.

The Historic Dockyard, Chatham ME4 4TE www.thedockyard.co.uk / 01634 823800

GODINTON HOUSE PLANT FAIR 21 APRIL

Plant Heritage will be using the fabulous Godinton House & Gardens in Ashford for their Plant Fair. The beautiful house makes a stunning backdrop for local specialist nurseries to sell a great range of trees, shrubs, perennials, alpines and herbs. Take the opportunity to seek advice from the experts and find some unusual plants for your garden.

Gates open at 11am Godinton House & Gardens, Godinton Lane, Ashford TN23 3BP www.godinton-house-gardens.co.uk / 01233 643854

SUGGS: MY LIFE STORY IN WORDS AND MUSIC // 23 APRIL

A hilarious and moving one-man tour de force. The death of Suggs' beloved cat on his 50th birthday triggers a quest to discover what happened to the father he never knew.

Stunned by what he learns, Suggs is taken back to his childhood on the streets of 1970s Soho and his first appearance on Top Of The Pops at the age of 18. Is it a play? Is it standup comedy? Is it music hall? With musical accompaniment from Deano, his loyal manservant-cum-pianist.

7.30pm; Tickets £24.50 The Marlowe Theatre, The Friars, Canterbury CT1 2AS www.marlowetheatre.com / 01227 787787

AN EVENING WITH MICHAEL CAINES

DIRTY DANCING // 2-20 APRIL

Dirty Dancing is an unprecedented live experience, exploding with heart-pounding music, passionate romance and sensationally sexy dancing. Seen by millions across the globe this worldwide smash-hit tells the classic story of Baby and Johnny, two fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds, who come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their lives.

Evenings 7.30pm, Fri 5pm & 8.30pm, Sat matinee 2.30pm; Tickets start at £34 The Marlowe Theatre, The Friars, Canterbury CT1 2AS www.marlowetheatre.com / 01227 787787

DETLING ANTIQUES & COLLECTORS FAIR // 20-21 APRIL

Two days of great items for you to purchase, in two buildings, shopping arcades, marquees and outside pitches. Whether it is vintage, antiques or collectables you are sure to be able to find it here.

Kent County Showground, Detling, Maidstone ME14 3JF www.b2bevents.info / 01636 676531

The team at the Michael Caines Restaurant would like to invite you to join them for a very special and unique Evening with Michael Caines, a glittering gala wine dinner hosted by Michael himself in the Michael Caines Restaurant at ABode Canterbury on Tuesday 28th May 2013.

Michael Caines MBE, two-star Michelin chef at Gidleigh Park, and director and partner of ABode, will ensure that your evening commences in great style. The evening begins with a Champagne and canapés reception, and an opportunity to meet Michael who will greet each diner personally.

Michael will introduce his executive chef Jean-marc Zanetti, who together with his talented team, is charged with preparing an exciting menu of regional foods devised by Michael himself. Steve Edwards, Group operations manager for Brownsword hotels, will also co-host the evening with Michael, introducing and presenting a stunning array of wines, port and Cognac to accompany Michael’s cuisine.

This is an occasion above all of great foods, great wines, and good cheer amongst friends. Michael will entertain you in his inimitable style with stories and anecdotes, as well as introduce each course of a magnificent tasting menu while Steve will give background information about the wines that he has carefully selected to complement each dish.

The cost for the evening is £110.00 per person. To book your place please contact Adriana on 01227 826677 or ecocanterbury@abodehotels.co.uk.

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EASTER

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Magical Easter Days Out ENJOY CADBURY EASTER EGG TRAILS IN KENT WITH THE NATIONAL TRUST For the sixth year running, Cadbury and the National Trust are teaming up to help families celebrate Easter weekend (29 March – 1 April) together by offering fun Easter Egg Trails at special National Trust places throughout Kent.

Taking place in some of Kent’s most beautiful outdoor spaces, the Cadbury and National Trust Easter Egg Trails add an element of joy to the traditional egg hunt in the county, with plenty to see, do and learn. Whether you're a child or simply young at heart, adventure is sure to lie ahead.

Follow cryptic clues around picturesque gardens, complete fun-filled challenges and explore the beauty of Kent’s most spectacular places to hunt down a delicious Cadbury prize.

Each trail is totally unique to its location and offers a wide range of activities for all the family to enjoy. There are also other Easter events going on throughout the holidays – see details of Kent events below:

Chartwell Easter Trail Fri 29 Mar – Mon 1 Apr, 11am-4pm Easter fun with trails and activities, £2 per trail plus normal admission Chartwell, Westerham 01732 868381

Knole Dressing up in the Great Hall Thu 4 & 11 Apr, Sat 6 & 13 Apr, 12noon-3pm Knole’s superb Tudor costumes for the whole family to try, normal admission charges Sevenoaks 01732 462100

Emmetts Garden Easter Egg Trail Fri 29 Mar – Mon 1 Apr, 10am-4.15pm Family fun with chocolate prize, £2 per trail plus normal admission Ide Hill, Sevenoaks 01732 750367

Quebec House Easter Trail Sun 30 Mar & Mon 1 Apr, 1-5pm With face painting and prizes, £2 per trail plus normal admission Westerham 01732 868381

Ightham Mote Easter Bunny Hunt Sat 30 Mar, 11am-3.30pm Trail £2.50 plus normal admission Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks 01732 810378 ext: 100

Scotney Castle BIG Easter Tea Party Sun 31 Mar – Mon 1 Apr, 12noon With bunting and street party style seating, music and entertainment, £8.50 per person (minimum booking 4 per table) Booking essential Lamberhurst, Tunbridge Wells 01892 893868

Knole Easter Garden Trail Tue 2 Apr, 12noon-3pm Discover the garden and claim a chocolate egg.

Garden admission: Adult £5, Child £2.50 (NT members free), plus £2 per trail

Sissinghurst Castle Easter Egg Trails Fri 29 Mar – Mon 1 Apr Family fun in the garden £2 per trail plus normal admission Near Cranbrook 01580 710700

Smallhythe Place Easter Trail Fri 29 Mar – Mon 1 Apr, 11am-5pm Follow the trail to find the treasure, £2 Smallhythe, Tenterden 01580 762334 The White Cliffs of Dover and South Foreland Lighthouse Pirates’ Treasure Trail Sun 31 Mar – Fri 12 Apr, 11am-3pm Minibus between the White Cliffs Visitor Centre and the lighthouse 31 Mar–7 Apr, £3 per trail, includes free family minibus ticket Near Dover 01304 202756

To join in with the Easter fun, simply visit www.eastereggtrail.com where you can find your nearest Cadbury and National Trust Easter Egg Trail and Egg and Spoon race, along with tips on how to make the most of the Easter weekend at home. For those who want to continue the experience afterwards, there is also a Cadbury Easter Egg Trail Pack, the perfect kit for exciting egg trails at home.

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10BEST

10 BEST

Easter Confections Divine Luxury Milk Chocolate Easter Egg £10 www.divinechocolate.com

Holdsworth Chocolates The Sensational Collection £15 www.holdsworthchocolates.co.uk

Booja-Booja Champagne Chocolate Truffles £27.95 www.chocolatetradingco.com The Cocoa Mistress Psychedelic Egg £29.99 www.thecocoamistress.com Charbonnel et Walker Milk Chocolate Easter Egg £19.95 www.choc-o-holic.co.uk

Green & Black’s Butterscotch Milk Chocolate Egg £9.99 www.greenandblacksdirect.com

Butlers Easter Chick Chocolate Ballotin £10 www.johnlewis.com Kennedys Filled Easter Egg £20 www.kennedys-chocolates.co.uk

Montezuma’s Single Origin Truffle Egg £17.99 www.montezumas.co.uk

Betty's Handmade Swiss Milk Chocolate Easter Egg £13.95 www.bettys.co.uk

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