Aldington Feb 2014

94

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February 2014

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Welcome to the village directory

Hi everyone, a belated welcome to 2014, I would like to wish you all a very happy new year and thank you for your continued support as we head into our 9th year of publishing.

Those 9 years have flown, but for at least 5 of them the country has been in a very challenging recession, as we appear to be turning the corner into more optimistic times, on behalf of my advertisers I would like to say a sincere thank you for supporting our local businesses.

My time off over the Christmas period has given me time to think and review the magazines.

With eight individual magazines now under my belt I can confidently say that there will be no further additions to the collection, my focus is to make each and every one the best that it can be. I receive great feedback on the editorial content and the importance of having something interesting to read, so in the year ahead I plan to expand this content and increase the space given to events, balancing this more evenly with advertising content.

Due to a few gremlins in my Events processing procedure I have made changes that took effect with the December Issue, but to ensure this continues to work successfully please send your events to this email address: events@ thevillagedirectory.co.uk this will keep them separate from the large volume of other email that arrives on a daily basis.

Every month each of the magazines is published on our website for online viewing, making it possible to link to advertiser websites and email, this year we also plan to make the magazine available via smartphones, tablet and iPad, providing the opportunity for even more content, so watch this space...~

Debbie

T: 01233 720488 e: info@thevillagedirectory.co.uk w: www.thevillagedirectory.co.uk March Issue Deadline 1st February

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the garden

Sowing Time Now that January is here it’s a perfect time to start sowing seeds in trays and pots. But how do you make sure that yours germinate and produce seedlings and then plants which thrive and grow well?

by Pippa Greenwood A shopping list for first time sowers should be:

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• Good quality seed and cuttings compost.

• Some seed half-trays, which are about 5” x 8”.

• A heated propagator, a clear propagator lid to go over the trays or a small unheated propagator.

• A dibber to make it easy to transplant the seedlings into a new home.

• Some small pots into which you can transplant the seedlings.

If you buy seed and cuttings compost it’s rarely necessary to sieve it as it has a very fine and even texture. However, if you’re using multi-purpose compost, you’ll need to either break up any lumps carefully with your hands or sieve it.

Depending on the types of seeds you have chosen, you will need to sow them at different depths.

Some seeds are tiny and are best scattered over the surface. Other seeds are best sown in drills. Once they are in place, in most cases you need to cover them with compost to the required depth.

However others germinate best if allowed access to daylight and should be sown on the surface.

With these it’s advisable to cover the surface of the tray with cling film to stop it drying out too rapidly. I like to put the seeds

in place and then moisten the compost. Place the seed trays in a sink or tray containing about 1cm of water and allow the compost to soak up the water. Once the compost is just moist you should stand the trays in a position where any excess water can drain off. Then, if necessary, put the trays in a heated propagator.

When it comes to watering the seeds, use mains water as water butts may harbour some of the disease-causing organisms which cause damping off, the fatal condition where the seedlings appear to suddenly flop and keel over.

Always watch the seed trays carefully and check them regularly to ensure that the compost is adequately moist.

Once the majority of the seedlings have appeared, it’s usually not long before you need to prick them out. Generally this is carried out when the first true leaves appear. When the seedling first comes above ground you will see the ‘seed leaves’ which are relatively sturdy looking and rounded in shape. Then above this come the first true leaves which are typical of that particular plant.

When pricking out, handle the seedlings very carefully,

never by their stems or true leaves, but always by the seed leaves. Before you start to ease them out, make sure that the compost is adequately moist, so that the roots move readily without damage and that you have already prepared pots for transfer. To avoid rotting, always transplant seedlings so that they are at the same depth as they were in the seed tray.

If you find that your seedlings have become rather leggy and drawn, this is usually because they’re not receiving enough natural light; move the trays onto a south or west facing windowsill.

Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com for a great range of gardening items including ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’.

Choose the veg you’d like to grow and they’re sent to you ready to plant, accompanied by weekly advice emails from Pippa.

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Vanish Those Winter Blues 6

Often, you can cope with the start of winter. It may be dark, cold and wet, but the early months are full of celebrations to lift your spirits until the New Year and its ‘fresh start’.

A few weeks later, your resolutions are in tatters. The days are still dark, meaning you drag yourself out of bed and then feel like the day is over by dinner time. You may be just fed up, but you could be suffering from ‘Winter Blues’.

So here’s how to survive the winter.

• Let There Be Light!

Lack of sunlight can increase melatonin levels (making you sleepy and lethargic) and reduce serotonin levels (affecting mood and appetite).

It’s also thought to influence your ‘body clock’ (your circadian rhythm that controls body functions). So spend time outside. When indoors, try to work or relax near a window.

A sunrise clock may help you wake up; they aim to bring your body out of sleep gently, by gradually increasing the light they emit.

• Stay Warm If your body is fighting to keep you warm, you’ll feel sluggish and struggle to concentrate.

Keep yourself as warm as possible; wear layers and heat your home adequately.

What about spending time somewhere else warm and cosy - a pub or library?

• Eat and Drink Healthily Warm, stodgy food and extra tea and coffee seem tempting when we’re chilly and low, but resist – think hot but healthy. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables of different colours and choose low sugar, low fat alternatives to stodgy puddings. Healthy soups are a great winter warmer, as are fruit teas, orange juice with cinnamon, honey and lemon, or malted drinks made with skimmed milk or hot water (but beware versions loaded with fat and sugar).

• Socialise There’s scientific proof that the company of others, particularly if laughing and hugging is involved, is great for our wellbeing.

So invite friends round, go visiting and attend sociable gatherings wherever possible.

• Exercise - Exercise will warm you up, increase your immunity and alertness and make you feel good too. So bundle yourself up for a walk outdoors on brighter days, and find an indoor activity you enjoy – perhaps an exercise or dance DVD or video game.

Whatever you do, your mind and body will feel better for it.

When you’re not just blue, but SAD Over 2 million people in the UK suffer from SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), a more severe form of Winter Blues. SAD is at its worst from December to February when days are shortest, and causes either depression, or mood swings between depression and hyper-energy.

Sometimes stress or trauma such as bereavement or a new baby seems to be a trigger, and it’s most prevalent in 18-30 year olds. If you are a sufferer, you can help yourself by: • Following the Winter Blues advice above • Trying a light box Therapeutic light boxes, available to buy or rent, produce light that’s at least ten times as intense as normal daylight. Rent one first to see if it works for you.

• Seeing your GP They may suggest counselling or CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) or in some circumstances, antidepressants or a structured course of light therapy.

For support and information, visit http:// www.sada.org.uk/ (The Seasonal Affective Disorder Association (SADA)) or http://www. sad.org.uk/

By Alison Runham

the garden

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faces whenever they looked like going to sleep).

It was very hard work I tell you! And did we get thanked for it? Of course not, there was just a lot of muttering and groaning about us always being hungry and demanding. Anyway, the good news is that Ebony and I did a great job, and that they all got better really quickly. Ebony and I were actually quite pleased when Josh started pottering around again and putting cars and bricks in our beds again- even if they are quite uncomfortable!

Hello everyone, Mowgli here. How are all of you? Looking forward to the warmer weather I bet!

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Ebony and I have been working very hard.

As you all know, we always have to work hard, but last month we had to do even more work than usual as everyone got sick and we were left ‘in charge’. First of all Joshua got sick. He threw up everywhere- I tell you, babies are messy. It was awful and Ebony and I stayed well out of the way of all that. Eventually thank goodness he stopped vomiting but then he was really still, quiet and floppy. This of course was good for a while as he is usually trying to play with us, hug us, put toys into our beds and generally be a bit of a nuisance. However, after a couple of days of him sitting listlessly around on Clive and Jane’s laps taking rehydration salts from a syringe Ebony and I did begin to miss his usual antics. We were very surprised!

It wasn’t long after Josh got sick that Jane got sick….. then we had to help Clive make hot water bottles, run baths and be a good nurse. Then just a few hours later Clive got sick too and we were left in charge! It was actually quite thrilling. All 3 humans were lying around being completely hopeless so Ebony and I got to work keeping them warm (sitting on them), making sure they kept moving by getting up occasionally and doing some exercise (i.e. making sure they got up to feed us at regular intervals) and ensuring that they were all still responsive (loud purrs and chirrups in their

The new clinic building is gradually taking shape.

As it is just across the car-park Clive says it is easy to keep an eye on it. Ebony and I think it is all quite exciting and great for them all to have more space- just as long as our pictures are still on Clive’s consulting room walls! The pictures of those stupid goats and Louis the tortoise can stay in the second consulting room. Everyone should know how important cats are!

Hope you all have a good month and speak to you all next time!

~ Mowgli Montgomery Vets

AT THE EVEGATE CENTRE SMEETH, ASHFORD ‘We treat your pet as if it was our own’ Specialising in all pet animals including exotics & avian. Calm and friendly family run clinic.

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J M Interiors shares their 5 essential ingredients for a classic country look;

CREATE A CLASSIC COUNTRY KITCHEN

1. Choose wooden or painted cabinetry.

For the archetypal country look choose generously proportioned furniture in solid wood. Distressed and painted finishes are incredibly popular as is combining paint and timber. Mix fitted cabinetry with free standing pieces such as dressers, larders and butchers blocks to create a ‘lived in’ look.

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2. Create a relaxed kitchen diner. A large informal farmhouse style table with chairs or benches should take centre stage in any country kitchen. If you haven’t got the space, think about grouping seating around an island.

3. Opt for a shaded white or classic cream colour palate – compliment with soft greys, blues and greens. This effect is bright, clean and calming and suits most country homes whether period or modern. For visual interest choose decorative details such as door handles to stop the look from being too bland. If you want to inject further colour choose tiles as a splashback behind ranges, cookers and sinks.

4.

Invest in appliances and fittings with classic good looks. The iconic range is still incredibly popular bringing a warmth and personality to a country kitchen.

The Belfast sink with its classic chunky look is a very popular choice with an ageless beauty.

5. Complete the look with country style accessories. Choose items that have a homemade artisan quality for a ‘lived in’ feel. Plate racks are useful and decorative, wicker baskets great for storage and a dresser display can house favourite objects such as vintage pottery.

J M Interiors are an independent family business who have been designing kitchens and interiors for over 30 years. Our bespoke furniture has a strong emphasis on beautiful yet functional design which is both timeless and built to last.

Our Biddenden showroom is full of unique designs and ideas where we will be pleased to discuss your project. For more information visit www.jmi-kitchens.co.uk or call 01580 291221.

the home

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Get the Perfect Look for Any Window With a new range of affordable and stunning made to measure blinds, curtains and shutters JLS Blinds & Shutters can help transform the look of your home.

Autumn is the perfect time to prepare your home for the cold winter months and for a warm, cosy feel why not opt for traditional thermal lined curtains. With an inspirational collection of fabrics, textures and colours you really will be spoilt for choice; and for that luxurious bespoke look JLS can also supply a comprehensive range of co-ordinated soft furnishings, from tie-backs to pelmets and cushions.

For pure style, wooden venetian blinds can be as aesthetically pleasing and room changing as a lovely piece of furniture.

Functional and stylish, the beauty of wood never fails to charm, bringing character and warmth to your home, whether it’s traditional or contemporary. Produced from renewably sourced wood in a fabulous selection of finishes and painted colours, they have been specially chosen to reflect both current trends and enduring favourites.

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If minimalism is more your style then Duorol; a new kind of roller blind that perfectly blends elegance and flexibility for a visual effect and level of light control that no other blind can offer is perfect for you (see the red Duorol in our advert for an stunning example of how this blind can look).

Another blind which will add elegance to your home is the Senses roller blind, available in most of our roller blind fabrics.

The Senses is a top of the range roller blind with matching fabric covered cassette pelmet and striking accessories, taking your standard roller blind to a new dimension.

So whether it’s an awkward shape, a large area; a tranquil living room; a steamy bathroom or hard-working kitchen, there’s a stylish option for every window in your home. g q Call JLS today for a free no obligation quote and make sure your windows get the attention they deserve.

T:01233 226570 www.jlsblinds.co.uk

the home

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Dirty Oven?

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Quality, Q li Made M d to Measure M Blinds Bli d at Affordable Prices FREE HOME DESIGN SERVICE ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

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village directory When Responding to Adverts

Sausages and Puy Lentils Serves 4

Ready in 40 minutes

If you fancy a change from the usual sausage and mash why not go Continental?

Tasty Toulouse sausages wrapped in pancetta and served on a bed of flavoursome puy lentils make the perfect mid-week meal.

Ingredients: 14

• • • • • • • •

225g puy lentils 225g shallots, peeled and halved 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp brown sugar 150ml vegetable stock 2 tbsp red wine vinegar 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 8 Toulouse or chunky pork sausages • 8 rashers pancetta or smoked streaky bacon, stretched with the back of a knife • 2 tsp clear honey • 3 tbsp chopped fresh flat leaf parsley

Tip Try your local butcher or deli or visit a farmers’ market to find the best quality Continental-style sausages. If you can’t find Toulouse sausages, Lincolnshire, Cumberland or pork and leek varieties will work just as well.

Place the lentils in a pan and cover with water.

Bring to the boil then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a deep frying pan and fry the shallots for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until just starting to soften.

Sprinkle over the brown sugar and cook for a further 8-10 minutes until the shallots are golden and caramelised.

Drain the lentils and add to the frying pan with the stock, vinegar and 2 tsp of the mustard.

Simmer for about 15 minutes until the lentils are just tender. Stir occasionally and add a little more stock, if necessary.

While the lentils are cooking, wrap each sausage with a pancetta rasher. Cook under a mediumhot grill for 8-10 minutes, turning frequently until the sausages are almost cooked through.

Mix together the rest of the mustard with the honey and brush over the sausages. Cook for a further 3-4 minutes until the pancetta is crisp and browned.

Stir half the parsley into the lentils and season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve the lentils and sausages on warmed plates garnished with the remaining parsley.

Reassuringly tasty, nutritious and dependable.

Now that’s a recipe for an easier life.

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Local Markets Challock

Fruit

Challock Memorial Hall, Blind Lane.

1st & 3rd Friday of each month 1pm to 4pm Contact Pauline Hickson 01233 740979

Apples Pears Rhubarb

The Barn Shop Traditional Market Challock 2nd & 4th Saturday of each month 10am – 2pm Contact 01233 740237

Vegetables

Charing Farmer’s Market Charing Church Barn 9 -11.30 every Thurs morning Contact 01233 740176

Egerton Fridays 2 - 4.30pm Millennium Hall

Wye First and third Saturday of every month on the Village Green in Wye. Tel: 07804 652156 www.wyefarmersmarket.co.uk

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In Season:

Artichoke (Jerusalem) Beetroot Broccoli Brussel Sprouts Carrots Cabbage Cauliflower Celeriac Celery Chard Chicory Greens Kale Leeks Onions Parsnips

Potatoes Shallots Squash Swede Salsify Turnips Winter Greens

Salad Endive Lettuce

Fish Brill Clams Cockles Haddock Hake Halibut John Dory Lemon Sole Mussels

Oysters Salmon Turbot

Meat & Game Beef Guinea fowl Hare Mutton Pork Rabbit Veal Venison Wood Pigeon

Life Begins Are you REALLY ready for romance?

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It’s that time of the year when we just can’t avoid the subject of romance, from the heart shaped decorations fluttering in shop windows to those indulgent dinner-for-two recipes that appear in your local paper.

This annual overdose of hearts and flowers can provoke a range of different reactions, depending on your age, situation or mindset.

If you’re a teenager expecting your first Valentine card, the 14th February can be a time of excitement. Alternatively if you’re a singleton marooned at home with a ready meal for one, the day can be a depressing experience.

Couples in long-term relationships may have more mixed feelings about St Valentine’s Day. Depending on whether you are a ‘glass half full’ or a ‘glass half empty’ kind of person, you will either see the 14th February as the perfect opportunity to show you care, or as an occasion that highlights the lack of romance in your relationship for the remaining 364 days of the year.

Of course, there are a lucky few who don’t need St Valentine’s Day to kick-start their romantic

feelings: take David and Lauren Blair, who earned a place in the Guinness Book of Records for renewing their wedding vows over 100 times, or Ravi Viswanathan, who paid over £25,000 at auction for a bottle of vintage champagne to celebrate his 10th wedding anniversary. If you must, even take American farmer Dick Kleis, who flew his wife over farmland in a plane to show her a birthday message he’d written out – you guessed it – in cow dung.

With Mills and Boon romantic novels published in 26 different languages and sold in 109 countries world-wide, it would seem that we can’t get enough of romance, but while it’s great to fantasise about other people’s love-inspired exploits, we’re sometimes less comfortable about experiencing them ourselves, in real life.

When football fan James Miller stripped down to his underwear

by Kate McLelland and did a Cupid-style streak across the pitch, firing roses from a bow and arrow in tribute to his girlfriend, it didn’t have the effect he anticipated: she was so embarrassed that she dumped him.

I know how James must have felt when his romantic gesture misfired. Last year on February 14th my partner of fifteen years rang me from work to say he’d booked a table at a new restaurant I’d spotted in town.

“It’ll be like a proper date,” he promised.

Although it was exciting to dress up and go out on the spur of the moment, the whole thing ran out of steam pretty quickly: within half an hour we were discussing how to fix a leaky tap in the bathroom.

Our night out may not have been the height of romance, but on reflection it summed up the comfortable place we have reached in our relationship.

It’s sad that St Valentine’s Day has lost its excitement for many of us, but I still believe it’s worth celebrating. Of course, there are those who condemn the 14th February for its overt commercialism, but you don’t have to spend a fortune to show that you care. Remember farmer Dick Kleis and make the best of the resources you have to hand … however, Dear Reader, if you want your relationship to last, I would advise you not to take his example too literally.

New Cruise Expert Sails into Town Obtaining up-to-the-minute cruise industry information, research, expert knowledge, and personalised service when choosing a memorable and relaxing cruise holiday just became easier for the Ashford area residents.

Ashford resident Susan Holt is now associated with Cruise Holidays UK, part of North America’s fastest growing cruise-speciality travel agency networks.

“I chose to join Cruise Holidays because, more than any other cruise-speciality travel agency network, it enables me to provide nothing but the very best value and the most choice to my customers”, said Susan. “It is a great fit for me, and I’m confident my customers will find it a great fit for Ashford, as well.

Powered by Minneapolis-based Travel Leaders Group, which includes more than 1,700 company-owned and franchised travel agencies, Cruise Holidays Independent Travel Consultants “provide their clients with a more personalised cruise booking service compared to what most people are accustomed to from booking online or even with some travel agencies,” says Susan.

In fact, Susan’s service is so personalised that she does not even have set office hours. “I work with my clients only by appointment and at times and locations convenient to their needs. I go to them, and if evenings and weekends are the best time to meet, then we meet on evenings and weekends,” she explains proudly.

Appropriately, a Cruise Holidays motto is “Your Personal Cruise Expert.” Susan brings clarity to her clients, enabling them to relax knowing they can expect the vacation of a lifetime – every time. But she notes that personal service is “only as good as the cruise expertise I provide.

Planning a cruise holiday is complex. It cannot be compared to purchasing an airline ticket, in which case customers are generally focused on simply getting to or from a particular destination. With cruise holidays not only is each cruise line very different from one another, but the ships themselves vary tremendously, as do the dozens of stateroom types offered on One

area of cruising is River Cruising. Over the past five years, the river cruise sector has seen a huge increase in passenger numbers and in 2014 10 new river cruise ships are being launched. River cruising is very different to ocean travel, the ships are smaller and more intimate, which means that you can see a lot more of the countries you visit, as you meander through their waterways whilst still providing outstanding food and customer service in luxurious surroundings.

If you would like to find out more about river cruising, Susan is holding a cruise event on Wednesday 26th February 2014 at The Farriers Arms Public House, Mersham in the Village Forge.

The evening starts at 6.30 and a representative from Titan Travel will host a presentation on Uniworld, their Five Star Boutique River Cruise Collection. Refreshments will be provided.

For more information and to reserve your place, please contact Susan on 01233 733515 or e-mail sholt@cruiseholidaysuk.co.uk or visit her website www.susanscruises.com

8 Night Rhine Festive Markets River Cruise December 2014

All inclusive board basis Uniworld River Cruise Flexible departure dates The finest 5* boutique ships Luxurious staterooms World class dining Included excursions VIP Home departure service Prices from £2249 per person

01233 733515 www.susanscruises.com

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L i v e Ja z z Fe b r u a r y T h e Fo l k e s t o n e J a z z C l u b A t T h e To we r T: 0 1 3 0 3 2 6 0 3 3 0 Thursday January 30th THE BEST OF BRITISH JAZZ THE DEREK NASH ACOUSTIC QUARTET WITH SPECIAL GUEST MARTIN SHAW DEREK NASH -Multi Saxophonist & Leader of the Jools Holland Rhythm & Blues Orch is the front man of this fantastic outfit. MARTIN SHAW World renowned Jazz Trumpeter is the Special Guest.

DAVE NEWTON In the top bracket of UK Jazz Pianists GEOFF GASCOYNE Double Bass - The most sought after SEBASTIAAN DE KROM -Drums -One of Europes finest Thursday February 6th - The Finest Latin Jazz / Salsa Outfit in The UK HEADS SOUTH With the UKs Number One Jazz Trumpeter STEVE WATERMAN plus JOHN HARRIMAN Leader / Piano / Arranger CHINO MARTEL MORGAN Percussionist from Cuba BUSTER BIRCH The Professor of DrumsADOLFRIDO PULIDO The Bassist from Sth America. They will be playing a new & extended arrangement of THE PEANUT VENDOR Thursday February 13th THE SIMON SPILLETT QUARTET Simon Spillett -Brilliant modern tenor sax man & defo the 21st centuries answer to Tubby Hayes JOHN CRITCHINSON Awesome Pianist- -spent years with Ronnie Scott ALEC DANKWORTH Double Bass- Top man in his own right - son of Sir JD CLARK TRACEY Drums - born to jazz - son of Stan Tuesday February 18th The Music in the style of The Bill le Sage trio with Ronnie Ross ie 1950s Jazz at The Flamingo MICK FOSTER Baritone Sax ( The UKs finest ) DAVE ROBINSON Vibes MIKE PORTER WARD Double Bass JIMMY TAGFORD Drums Thursday February 27th Modern Jazz at its Swinging Best ALEX GARNETT World class Saxophonist MARK NIGHTINGALE Trombone - The UKs No1 LEON GREENING Fantastic modern Pianist PAUL MORGAN Double Bass -None better. MATT SKELTON Drums -Amazing drummer from Jazz to the classics The Folkestone Jazz Club is non profit making & is run by & for those with a like minded interest in our kind of music. DERICK WOODLAND 01303 260330

What’s On...

February

Wednesday 29th January to Saturday 1st February 2014 SHOUT! The Mod Musical, created by Phillip George and David Lowenstein, will be performed by the Tenterden Operatic and Dramatic Society.

SHOUT! is a toe-tapping, comedy musical packed full of classic 1960’s hits from the likes of Dusty, Lulu and Cilla.

So, if you’re looking for a feel good night out with lots of laughs during those dark winter evenings then come along to the Tenterden Town Hall at 7.30pm and join in with the fun (extra matinee performance on Saturday).

For advance tickets, go to www.tods.me.uk

Friday January 31st and Saturday February 1st - Kingswood players presents the pantomime Cinderella at the Challock memorial hall, 7.30pm start and 2pm matinee and 7.30pm on the 1st February.

Tickets £6 adult and £4 children. Tickets availiable from Challock post office or call 01233 740313 all profits to Kent Air Ambulance.

Saturday February 1st 10:30-11:30 New Tai Chi For Beginners Class every fortnight at The Park Club Gym, Ashford Only £3 (thereafter £6) Contact Reception on 01233 229909 to book your place for further details visit www.taichiforyou.co.uk

Sunday February 2nd (8am - 12 noon) Boot Fair The regular monthly Boot Fairs at Hamstreet Victory Hall will resume on Sunday 2nd February 2014 from 8 am - 12 noon. They are on the first Sunday of every month excluding January. Inside and outside stalls, refreshments, toilets. For more details, or to book a stall please call Eileen on 01233 732568

Monday February 10th - ASHFORD MUSIC SOCIETY - Munster Trust Young Artist SHIRY RASHKOVSKY (viola) ALISON RHIND (piano) Shiry Rashkovsky began her musical education aged five and later studied at the Royal College of Music, London. A versatile musician, her performances have taken her across the globe, including engagements for HRH Prince Charles and the Emperor and Empress of Japan. Shiry has won numerous awards and gave her Royal Festival Hall debut in October 2012. When Shiry comes to Ashford her programme will include music

by Franz Mozart, Brahms and Hindemith. Sponsored by the Countess of Munster Musical Trust Venue: The Norton Knatchbull School, Hythe Road, Ashford, TN24 0QJ Time: 7.30 p.m. Tickets: £12 (Adults) and £3 (Students) Contact: Brenda McCormack on 01233 622971 or Hilary Pittock on 01233 623700.

Monday February 10th Smeeth W.I. will meet on at 7.30 pm in the Brabourne and Smeeth Village Hall when Rodger Free will speak about “Elephants in Zimbabwe” We extend a warm welcome to any lady

visitor and should further information be required please contact Joy Taylor on 01303 812165 or Margaret Garrett on 01303 813932”

Thursday

February

13th 7.45pm for 8.00pm at Aldington Village Hall, Aldington & Bonnington Gardening Society. Talk

by Mrs Sue Buckingham “Wild Flowers of the Countryside”. Visitors and new members are always welcome. For full details of our programme contact Jean Evans 01233 720618.

Sunday February 16th 10am – 2pm Charlton Park Foundation SNOWDROP WALK & COFFEE in aid of St Mary the Virgin Church, Bishopsbourne See the 200yr old snowdrops planted in memory of the Prince Regent’s white charger, killed jumping from the Ballroom window for a bet.

Walk in the wood plus coffee, tea and biscuits.

Minimum donation £2.50 per person. Contact: 01227 831 355

Saturday February 22nd Lympne Village Hall Table Top Fayre (Indoor Boot Fayre) from 10.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. so why not come along and search for a bargain or sell your unwanted items by book your table in advance for £6 or £8 per table on the day, if spaces remain, by ringing 07974360013. There will be hot refreshments and ample free parking. Registered Charity No 277548 Friday February 28th Brabourne & Smeeth Gardeners’ Society’s meeti at 7.15 for 7.30pm in the village hall when Debbie Adams from Kentish Stour Countryside Partnership will make a presentation about land management, river restoration, the importance of gardens for wildlife and much more. Everybody is welcome. For further info contact Wendy Sanders on 01303 813451 or email brabournewendy@gmail.com.

Saturday April 6th. Charity Run My name is Debbie Southern, on April 6th 2014 I will be running the Brighton Marathon. I will be raising money for Demelza Children’s Hospice.

Demelza is a charity very close to my heart, as my daughter Mollie who suffers from Cerebral Palsy, Hydrocephalus & Epilepsy, has respite care there.

I grew up in Smeeth & Mollie’s Grandparents Maureen & Terry Leadbetter still live in the village.

If you would like to sponsor my Marathon effort, you can donate directly via my website at www. virginmoneygiving.com/debbiesouthern or phone her on 01233 640623.

Please send your events to: events@thevillagedirectory.co.uk Deadline 1st of t he m ont h for t he following m ont h’s e dit ion

BRABOURNE BAPTIST CHURCH Plain Road, Brabourne Lees, Kent TN25 6QN Pastor Tim Simpson Tel:01303 813257 Congratulations Café Wednesday! We celebrated our fourth birthday last month! The Café is open every Wednesday from 10am to 11.30am. Drop in for coffee, biscuits, company and a warm friendly atmosphere.

Choice of books available. We are also open every second Wednesday of the month from 12noon for soup and roll, and tea/coffee, costing £1. Everyone is invited; just turn up! Graham Kingston, our Community Warden, will try to be there on the first Wednesday of the month, should anyone need to see him.

Art Club The next meeting is on Tuesday February 11.

Nikki Barratt, a local artist, will be demonstrating. For more details please phone Mike on 01303 812484 MP’S Surgery: Our MP Damian Collins, will be holding his monthly surgery at the church from 3.45pm to 4.30pm on Friday February 21. If you have any questions, complaints or comments, please book an appointment by e-mailing your name, post code, subject and message to: shepwayconservatives@ btconnect.com or telephone 01303 253 524.

Ladies Breakfast Saturday March 22 at 9am. Guest speaker from Demelza House. Please phone Val for details 01303 813152 Men’s Curry Night Monday March 24 at 7.30pm.

Please phone Tim for details 01303 813257) Church Bookings If you wish to book the church hall for a meeting or function, please phone Geoff Thorpe 01303 813152 Sunday Services: There is a regular service at 10.30am every week. Morning Worship is followed by refreshments in the side hall.

The Ark: Fridays from 10am to 12noon: for babies and children under school-age with their parents/carers.

Lively Discussions! Home Groups meet on Wednesday evenings. Everyone is welcome to come and join us! We are very informal and friendly. Please phone Tim 01303 813257 or David 01303 814437 Ladies Coffee Morning: We meet on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday morning of the month at 7 Calland. We have a short time of Bible study and prayer, and we welcome all ladies. Please phone Pat 01303 812219 Ruth Group: Meets on the first Thursday of the month at 2.15pm. All ladies are welcome. Please phone Erica 01303 814911 for more information Ladies Afternoon Home Group; We meet on the second Thursday of the month at 2.15pm at Corinne’s, 54 Mountbatten Way. This is a relaxed time of discussion and all ladies are welcome to come and join us! Please ring Corinne for more details 01303 812603

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what’s on

CLUBS & SOCIETIES

Sellindge Sports & Social Club - Legs, Bums & Tums - New Class An hour of challenging toning & groaning. Body weight exercises to music for motivation & lots of fun. Every Tuesday 18.0019.00 £5 per class. Call Hayley on 07843 099912 for more information and to register your interest

A New Quilting Group held in the Oak Room, Smeeth TN25 6SA. If you are interested in quilting or patchwork why not come along and learn new skills and share your expertise with like minded people. Beginners and advanced levels are welcome. Bi-monthly meetings, for further information contact Marion on 01233 750319

Stowting W.I.

We meet on the second Wednesday of the month (except August) at 7.30pm in the Peace Room. For further information please contact Jennie Cooper on 01303 862572.

Line Dancing Classes, Sellindge Village

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Hall. Tues Eve 7.30 – 9.30 (Intermediate), Thurs afternoon 1-3pm (easy intermediate) Thurs eve 7.30 9.30 (Intermediate) contact Maureen Lincoln 01303 813161 or 07989 210449.

Brabourne & Smeeth Gardeners’ Society We meet on the last Friday of the month at Brabourne & Smeeth Village Hall, 7.15 for 7.30pm. New members and visitors will be made very welcome.

For further info contact Wendy Sanders on 01303 813451 or email brabournewendy@gmail.com.

Aldington & Bonnington Gardening Society We meet on the 2nd Thursday of the month in the Aldington Village Hall at 7.45 pm for 8.00. We have a varied programme of talks, shows and social events. Visitors and new members are always welcome. For further details please contact Jean Evans on 01233 720618 or colin.e123@ btinternet.com

Aldington Short Mat Bowls Club We play on Monday nights at Aldington village hall from 7.30pm to 10.00pm. No special equipment required you only need a pair of shoes with flat soles and we can supply the woods. Go on give it a try it may be just the sport you are looking for.

Interested, give Jim or Janet a call on 01233 632102

Lympne Short Mat Bowling Monday and Thursdays from 7.00 p.m. to 9.45p.m. in the Village Hall. Annual Subscription is £20.00 and the green fees are £2.00 per evening. For more information call Mick or Marian Hatton on 01303 814274

Line Dancing Classes, Sellindge Village Hall. BEGINNERS CLASS commencing Thursday afternoon 3rd October 12pm - 1pm Also (EASY Intermediate class) Thurs afternoon 1 - 3pm For more details on both these classes contact Raye Warrne on 01303 813098. Tues and Thursday eve.

7.30 - 9.30 (Intermediate classes) contact Maureen Lincoln on 01303 813161 or 07989 210449

Step at Sellindge Village Hall Sundays at 10.00 a.m. Fun fitness for all levels Call Michelle Sinclair ACE Personal Trainer 01233 820109

The Sellindge Get Together Club Meet in the Durling Hall at Sellindge, next to the main hall, from 2pm to 4pm on the second Wednesday in the month. If you are interested just come to our meetings or phone 01303 813454 for more details.

Smeeth W.I. We meet on the second Monday of the Month at 7.30 pm in the Brabourne & Smeeth village hall for further information do contact Joy Taylor 01303 812165”

Dog Agility Classes new to Chequer Tree Equestrian Centre, Mersham on Thursday evenings.Contact: Nathan Thompson on 07795 077921 or bone-a-fidebehaviours@hotmail.co.uk

MJW Autos Ltd Affordable quality body repairs www.mjwautos.co.uk zQuality Body Repairs, collision damage, dents and scratches zCity & Guilds Craftsman zFriendly, Professional, Valued Service zQuality Workmanship zInsurance Work, Free Estimates, Local drop off and pick up zCustomers benefit from 10% on car & van hire zMOT Failure Repairs zNo VAT on Labour zTestimonials & portfolio of repairs zQuality paint for Car Spraying Unit 1 A.S.H Business Centre Cobbs Wood Ind Estate Ashford Kent TN23 1EJ

Tel: 01233 632200 Mob: 07733 442071 E-mail:mjw_autos@btconnect.com www.mjwautos.co.uk

motoring Hut, Mondays 7.00 p.m. Fun Fitness for all levels Call Michelle Sinclair 01233 820109

Hall & Thursdays 10.00-11.30am, St Mary’s Oak Room, Smeeth (off the A20). £7 per class. Please call Daniela 01233860417 or 07939870826

Hi/Low Aerobics at Sellindge Village Hall on

Calligraphy Classes at St Mary’s Oak Room,

Body Conditioning Class at Smeeth Scout

Wednesdays 7.00 .p.m. Fun Fitness for all levels Call Michelle Sinclair ACE Personal Trainer for details 01233 820109

Zumba Fitness 7.15pm A latin inspired dance fitness class and Legs bums and Tums 8.15pm Every Wednesday Aldington village hall. Contact Leigh Little 01233 65075 3 M: 07756 726590 Yoga Mondays 7.30-9.00pm, Warehorne Village

s ’ r e h is

F b Bo Garage

SELLINDGE

Smeeth from 10.30a.m. to 12.30p.m. All welcome including complete beginners. Cost is £7 per session. For further information, please call Sue Gray on 01233 720696.

Burlesque Classes. Lympne Village Hall.

Wednesday nights 8pm til 9.30pm £7. Ladies only.

Get fit, have fun, feel fabulous. Whatever your size, shape or age - release your inner vixen! www. quizzicool.co.uk, click burlesque classes.

You may be surprised what a small country garage can offer today’s motorist!

A personal friendly service on your door step at affordable prices.

M O T Te s t i n g C e n t r e • Sඍකඞඑඋඑඖඏ • Mඍඋඐඉඖඑඋඉඔ Rඍ඘ඉඑකඛ • Tඡකඍඛ

Tel: 01303 814131 www.bobfcars.co.uk

• B඗ඌඡ Rඍ඘ඉඑකඛ & Pඉඑඖග W඗කඓ • Bඉගගඍකඑඍඛ & Eචඐඉඝඛගඛ

Also a Good Selection of Quality Small Used Cars

for good honest advice, information and a solution to most mobility problems

www.forrmobility.co.uk New ,Used & Hire Equipment from Aids for Daily Living to Wheelchairs.

come and try the largest selection of mobility equipment in ashford

• Parking by the door.

• Indoor & outdoor test areas.

• Repairs / Servicing.

• Modifications.

• Adaptations.

• Easy terms available.

• Free home assessments

Please Mention The

village directory When Responding to Adverts

21

business

Retirement: The Challenges...

Purchasing an annuity is the most common method of drawing an income when you retire. This means that you would use the money in your personal pensions to buy an income for the rest of your life.

20 years ago, someone aged 65 with ÂŁ100,000 in their personal pensions would have received a lifetime income of approximately ÂŁ15,000 per annum. Today the same amount of money would provide an income in the region of just ÂŁ6,000!

22

There are a number of reasons why annuity rates are so low and why many believe that they currently represent poor value for money.

Interest rates are at an all-time low and have been for nearly 5 years. This has two significant disadvantages for those individuals approaching retirement. Firstly, it has a detrimental effect on annuity rates and the income that pensioners will receive.

Secondly, the rates on savings accounts and Cash ISAs are next to nothing and savers are struggling to find a suitable place for their short term savings. This is very unfortunate because lots of people who are due to retire over the next 10 years would have had a mortgage in the 1980s when interest rates peaked at 15%.

Over the last 4 years, the Bank of England have been printing additional money and this has pushed extra capital in to the UK economy. This is often referred to as Quantitative Easing (QE). This process has led to a drop in the yield on Government Gilts. Insurance companies use the yields on Government Gilts to set annuity rates which has also contributed to the steep drop in retirement income.

Improved longevity and medical developments have also had an impact

on annuity rates. Today the average life expectancy for a man is 85 and 89 for a women. This has increased significantly over the last 20 years and has put further pressure on annuity rates. As there is a greater chance that we will live for longer, annuity providers are not prepared to pay as much income.

Drawing an income when you retire is not as simple as it used to be. Many of the options are irreversible and will affect your income throughout your lifetime. It is therefore important to make an educated decision once you have considered all of your options.

To discuss your pension provision in more detail please contact us on 01233 621066.

Louise Pepper APFS, BA Hons Chartered Financial Planner

IIndependent d d t Fi Financial i l Ad Advice i Helping you to feel informed and in control of your financial affairs.

We provide support and guidance for: Retirement and Pension Planning Savings and Investments Health and Life Assurance Mortgage Advice Call: 01233 621066 Website: www.bespokefinancialplan.co.uk Email: louise@bespokefinancialplan.co.uk Louise Pepper T/A Bespoke Financial Planning is an appointed representative of Financial Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA number 605539

business

Woodchurch - LET Characterful detached house with four double bedrooms set in a quiet rural location surrounded by secluded gardens, three receps, large kitchen, shower room & family bathroom. Garage and additional parking.

£ 1400 pcm

23 Smeeth

Smeeth

Smeeth

Spacious four bed det. house situated in a select development. Four double bedrooms, lounge, dining room, two bathrooms, cloakroom, dble garage & private rear garden

Character three bedroom ragstone cottage in village location, sympathetically updated with two recepts, modern kitchen and bathrm parking and courtyard garden

Detached character three bedroom bungalow offering generous and versatile living space. Rear garden backing onto open fields.

£399,995

£249,995

£365,000 SSTC

Stelling Minnis

Smeeth

Smeeth

Rarely available three bedroom semi detached farm cottage surrounded by farm land with far reaching views, includes sitting room, kitchen/breakfast room, large front and rear gardens both approx 70ft, ample parking for four cars

Substantial individual detached property set in over an acre of garden & paddock. Four beds, 3 receps, conservatory, farmhouse style kitchen, utility and two bathrooms. Large barn & triple ‘Cart Barn’. Fantastic views of surrounding countryside. 1.7 acres

£199,995

£650,000

Three bed terraced property with open plan lounge and dining area.

Modernised to an excellent standard with quality fitted kitchen and bathroom

£168,500

LEES ROAD • BRABOURNE LEES • Nr ASHFORD • KENT TN25 6QB

SALES: 01303 812515 • LETTINGS:01303 812541 www.sjmproperty.co.uk Please Mention The

village directory When Responding to Adverts

The History of Trench Watches

by Ryan at www.fullywound.co.uk This is the first of a two part article.

The trench watch is a type of watch that came into use around World War 1. Pocket watches were not practical in combat, so this was the transition between pocket watches and the wrist watch that we know today.

A trench watch is a small pocket watch; usually a ladies pocket watch that would mostly have a solid silver lug put on then a leather strap of some kind added. They were given the nickname of wristlets as they were considered more of a passing fad than a serious timepiece.

They were held in such disdain that many gentleman were actually quoted to say “I would sooner wear a skirt than a wrist watch”.

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The very first trench watch is unknown, but the first series of purpose-made wrist watches were produced buy Girard-Perregaux in 1880 for the German navy, but during World War 1 they were made by a few companies which included Omega and Longines.

Later, several technological advents were credited with the British victory in the AngloBoer War (South Africa 1899-1902), including smokeless gunpowder, the magazine-fed rifle and even the automatic or machine gun.

However, some would argue that it was a notso-lethal device that helped turn the tide into Britain’s favour - the wristwatch.

While the British troops were superiorly trained and equipped, they were slightly outnumbered, and at a disadvantage while attacking the Boer’s heavily entrenched positions. Thanks to these recently designed weapons, a new age of war had emerged, which, now more than ever, required tactical precision. British officers achieved success by using these makeshift wristwatches to coordinate simultaneous troop movements, and synchronise flanking attacks against the Boer’s formations.

In 1906, the evolution of wristlets took an even bigger step with the invention of the

expandable flexible bracelet, as well as the introduction of wire loops (or lugs) soldered onto small, open-faced pocket watch cases, allowing leather straps to be more easily attached. This aided their adaptation for military use and thus marked a turning point in the development of wrist watches for men.

Another timely issue was the vulnerability of the glass crystal when worn during combat.

This was addressed by utilising “pierced metal covers”, frequently called shrapnel guards.

These were basically metal grills (often made of silver), placed over the dial of the watch— thereby protecting the glass from damage while still allowing the time to be easily read.

A less common solution was the use of leather covers, snapped into place over the watch.

While they did offer protection from damage, they were cumbersome to use, and thus were primarily seen in the extreme climates of Australia and Africa.

Even with their success in combat, the popularity of the wristwatch was still limited to ladies’ models. They didn’t reach the mainstream market until some two decades later, when soldiers from around the world converged on Europe to help defeat the German Empire in WWI (1914-1919). Due to the strategic lessons learned in the Boer War, the demand for reliable, accurate wristwatches was now at its peak.

Has Your Watch Stopped?

Is It Losing Time?

We specialise in watches over 20 years old All makes and models can be serviced and repaired using original parts. parts For All Your Watch and Jewellery Repairs

Call 01303 211500 w w w. f u l l y w o u n d . c o. u k

Pengelly & Rylands FAMILY SOLICITORS For friendly advice in times of need • Family, Children & Divorce (Fixed Fee appointments available) • Elderly Client Care • House Sales & Purchases • Equity Release • Wills & Probate • Commercial

Please call us on 01580 762248

Aldington School Jumble Sale Saturday 8th February Aldington Village Hall 2pm-4pm Refreshments served Donations of jumble welcome – bring to village hall between 9am & 1pm

39/41 High Street, Tenterden, Kent TN30 6BJ www.pengelly-rylands.co.uk

25

Socialising Online: The virtual world of friends, groups, and lovers

by James Smith http://jamessmithwriter.wordpress.com The popularity of social networking has exploded over the last decade and is now used by many as a way to meet people for business, to share a special interest, for friendship, or even love.

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The ability to connect with other people via the Internet, started to go beyond email when Bulletin Board Systems (BBS) or ‘forums’ started appearing in the 1980s and 90s. Although rudimentary, these systems allowed people to connect and exchange interests and ideas in the same way that one would by posting messages on a community notice board or placing notices in periodicals and newsletters.

These early, and rather limited, systems were the forerunners to the social networking giants of today, such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. The unique feature of these ‘virtual meeting places’ is their ability to make geographical distance insignificant. So, if you’re a dressmaker based in Fairbanks, Alaska, you can hook up with someone with similar interests in Tasmania and exchange ideas with little expense, and without taking a flight around the globe.

The hugely successful social network, LinkedIn, is aimed at business and forges relationships between professionals worldwide.

This means that face-to-face meetings are often redundant, even when significant business decisions and transactions are at stake. Yes, it’s a less personal way of doing business, but no one can deny that it’s quicker and more efficient: use of technology for business relationships is here to stay.

But what about today’s way of connecting with likeminded people to share a common interest?

Websites such as Facebook enable you not only to connect with friends and family, but also to join and create ‘groups’. This has resulted in a mass of specialist groups being formed, representing the most diverse interests and tastes imaginable. Everything from movies and book clubs to political activists and heavy rock bands are catered for.

Drawing benefit from these groups and networks, however, requires real effort to engage and develop anything that could be considered a relationship. Indeed, you may

find that you have gathered many virtual friends, but little tangible evidence to show for it. In this sense, it is like any club or society: the more effort and commitment you put in, the benefits you will reap. In social networking terms, this may translate into uploading interesting photographs, writing blogs, providing advice, or news snippets. In this way, you become known as an active contributor, people find your input of value, and relationships develop amongst the virtual community with the common shared interest.

But it’s not all virtual. The site meetup.com brings together people with common interests who live in the same area. Singles clubs, dog walkers, motorbiking and coffee lovers are amongst thousands of groups available to join – or launch one of your own. In these cases, the real benefits are often realised after the event, when users return to their homes or places of work and upload photos and comments to the online user group for everyone to enjoy.

Of course a cautious approach should be undertaken before making the transition from the virtual world to meeting people

physically in the outside world.

And what of more serious relationships nurtured online?

The landscape of virtual relationships has opened up and spawned a massive industry of dating sites (in the UK alone, over 1400), some for singles looking to connect for companionship that could lead to a more serious date, others that combine the need for common interest groups with single people also looking for romantic connections. There is undoubtedly a seedy side to this world, and one should draw a clear distinction between ‘escort services’ and ‘dating agencies’.

However many dating sites have very high standards of security,

and vet their members to ensure safe and responsible use.

It’s now a fact that people do meet via these sites and foster long-term loving relationships.

And whatever stigma may exist with this initial form of contact, for many, it offers a preferable alternative to remaining isolated or hanging around noisy bars or nightclubs.

The web even seems to have the capability to evolve new types of relationships.

For busy professionals not looking for love, but for a companion at conferences and businessrelated social functions, professional ‘non-sexual’ escort services are available for both men and women.

Printed Mugs Have your own photos on a mug or your company logo

Embroidered Clothing

• T-shirts •

Polo Shirts • Sweatshirts 38mm Pin Badges to Order

Tel: 01233 720809 louise@bumbledesigns.net

Reach Out to 4,000 Homes & Businesses via Royal Mail Advertise Here for £30 pm plus vat 10% Discount & A FREE Editorial for 6 month bookings Easy monthly payment options

Tel: 01233 720488 e: info@thevillagedirectory.co.uk

Naturally, these services raise age-old stereotypes, and often misconceptions, about the process of paying for any type of relationship. But this is a changing landscape, and such barriers are being broken down by the Internet.

Whatever one feels about the value of a ‘virtual relationship’, many are benefitting from the Internet’s enormous reach and ability to connect people across social and geographical divides.

Despite the clear dangers, and precautions that must be taken, there is no doubt that valid business relationships, real friendships, and even love, can now all be found online.

27

health & beauty

Beauty Professional Beauty Secrets: Revealed

28

Ever wondered how models and actresses manage to look so gorgeous all the time? Well, here’s the low-down on those all important tips and tricks that are used by professionals all over the world.

Clever Contouring Kim Kardashian is known for her flawless make-up look which perfectly accentuates her features and draws attention to her razorsharp cheekbones.

Skilled in the art of contouring, her make-up artist cleverly uses cosmetics to emphasis particular parts of her face, which creates her striking trademark look.

Here’s how you can get cheekbones which rival Kim’s: Firstly you’ll need to prime your skin. Choose the primer that’s right for you: green toned versions neutralise redness in the skin and mattifying primers eradicate shine. Smooth the product over your entire face, after applying a light moisturiser.

Next, select two foundations in two different shades; the first should be one shade lighter than your natural skin tone and the other one shade darker.

Apply the lighter foundation to the centre of your forehead, bring it down onto the middle of your nose, in a straight line (this will make your nose appear straighter and slimmer), apply under your eyes and to the tops of your cheekbones, then lastly to the centre of your chin.

Sweep the darker shade under your cheekbones, along the outer sides of your nose, either side of the lighter colour, and on your temples and jaw line. Blend down onto your neck so that you don’t end up with a visible foundation line.

Use a light-reflecting - not a glittery or overly shimmery highlighter to make certain areas of your face really stand out.

Apply the product under the arch of your eyebrows, along the tops of your cheekbones, down the centre of your nose and on your cupid’s bow.

To finish, and to bring the entire look together, dust translucent powder over your entire face and add a touch of colour to the apples of your cheeks using a pink blusher.

Perfect Pout Here’s how to achieve a red carpet pout.

Grab a neutral-coloured lip liner and begin lining just outside the coloured part of your lips to create

By Helen Taylor

a full effect.

Define your cupid’s bow by drawing a ‘V’ in the centre curve of your top lip, bring the line round and down using soft feathery strokes. Line the curve of the bottom lip with the same light movements, and soften by lightly blending with your finger.

Choose a striking shade of red lipstick and carefully apply the colour within the line using a lip brush.

Finally add a touch of shimmery clear lip-gloss to the centre of your lips to add instant fullness.

Lovely Lashes Long, luscious eyelashes are a must for anyone in the spotlight.

Most celebrities will be sporting high quality lash extensions, but you can still achieve an impressive look with just a few basic tools.

Eyelash curlers are a must for every woman – they serve to immediately open-up eyes and add shape to lashes.

Liquid liner is essential too; not only does it add definition, but it helps to create the look of a thick lash line, so always apply to your upper lashes before your mascara.

Choose a quality mascara to lengthen and colour your lashes.

Wipe the applicator before use and work the brush through your lashes using a quick side to side motion, ensuring that every area is covered.

health & beauty

29

health & Lifestyle salt and sugar. And if you’re turning to caffeine to ward off fatigue, that can backfire, too, by disrupting your sleep.

LOOK GREAT FEEL HEALTHY CALL TODAY!

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T: 01233 739113

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Those high calorie comfort foods can stimulate the release of certain chemicals in the brain that make us feel good – at least in the short term – and also make us want to keep eating. But in a vicious cycle, overeating can lead to weight gain - which increases psychological stress and which, in turn, can lead to more overeating.

While you might not be able to make the stress go away, there are things you can do to help you manage stress levels and the way in which you respond to it.

• • • • •

Eat balanced meals Eat regularly and don’t skip meals Try to avoid using food as a stress reducer Cut back on caffeine Try to keep mealtimes pleasant

For more information or advice, please contact Neil on 01233 739113 or email neil@ ultim8wellness.com

30

The occasional stressful event – like a car that won’t start, or a refrigerator on the blink – is a part of life. And when stuff like this happens, we do get stressed a little bit – it’s the body’s way of helping us to focus so we can tackle the problem. Getting stressed out occasionally is one thing, but when stress becomes chronic – when we face, for instance, unrelenting work demands or constantly worry about our finances – it can really take a toll on the body.

The body’s natural response to stress leads us to feel a little more ‘on’ and alert. We evolved this ‘fight or flight response’ as a way to defend ourselves against a sudden danger or threat. But when this stress response is turned on all the time, it can tax the body’s immune system, making it more difficult for us to ward off disease.

And since a healthy immune system depends on a nutrient-rich diet, being well-nourished is one of the best defences against illness, particularly during times of ongoing stress.

That’s easier said than done, though. Stress can also bring on fatigue or depression, so healthy eating might take a back seat to foods that are quick or comforting – and often loaded with fat,

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Ashford’s specialist lingerie shop, opened in June 2013. Dawn Luck the proprietor has many years experience in the lingerie business after working for a large department store in Canterbury and having been given training as a bra fitter in 2006 with Triumph.

Now building up her shop in Ashford she offers a free professional fitting service in a relaxed, friendly environment.

Catering for all age groups from young to mature, we offer good quality brands including, Triumph, Sloggi, Playtex, Charnos, Lepel, Royce, Fantasie and recently Amoena.

These include Classic styles that offer the very important perfect fit, for support and comfort.

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We offer a variety of specialist sizes and styles, these include wired, non-wired, front fastening, plunge, multiway, cotton, seasonal colour, mastectomy and bridal.

We offer a variety of pocketed bras for ladies after having breast surgery, these include Royce and just recently added Amoena. Also coming soon a range of pocketed swim suits from Amoena.

Bridal - Coming in the next few weeks an extended range of bridal lingerie from strapless bras, basque, thongs, suspenders and garters, from Lepel, Charnos and Fantasie. Also now stockists of Charnos hosiery, tights, stockings, hold ups and opaque tights.

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31

Number Pyramid: 16, 8, 8, 3, 5 Hieroglyphics: Sahara Desert

32

Puzzle Time Sudoku

Hidato

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3 x 3 box contains the digits 1 through 9, with no repetition! That’s all there is to it, you solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic there’s no maths involved and no adding up.

It’s fun. It’s challenging. It’s addictive!

Starting at 1 and finishing at 34, track your way from one hexagon to another (touching) hexagon, placing consecutive numbers into the empty shapes as you go. Some numbers are already given.

28

1 30

13 22

5

23

16

34 36

40 38

6 8

43

45

42

49

33

©Puzzlepress.co.uk

Quick Crossword 1

Across 1.

5.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

14.

17.

19.

22.

23.

24.

25.

European country (7) Scour (5) Inflamed (7) Precise (5) Strict (5) Operating room (7) Painter (6) Lethal (6) Non professional (7) Likeness (5) Edgy, anxious (5) Revised (7) Father (5) Harnessed to ride (7)

Down 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

12.

Types of transport (5) Not tight (5) E.g. Crete, Rhodes (7) Tiny (6) Stage set (5) Oven cooked (7) Torch power cell (7) Made suitable (7)

2

3

4

5

8

6

7

20

21

9

10

12

11

13

14

15

16 17

18

19

22

23

24

25

13.

15.

16.

Coached (7) Once lived (7) Destroys (6)

18.

20.

Including all (5) Fourth month (5)

21.

Finished (5)

Be Your Own Interior Designer Whether you’re planning a room from scratch or freshening up an existing scheme, it can be hard to know where to start.

Fired Earth offers a design service for bathrooms and kitchens (0845 293 8798; firedearth.com).

Creating a successful space involves a complex blend of practical and aesthetic considerations. As well as the nitty gritty of wiring and plumbing, there’s wallpaper, paint colours and fabric to select, window treatments to decide on, storage to incorporate, furniture to choose and finishing touches to arrange. How can you ensure that you do it correctly?

By Katherine Sorrell

Never fear: it’s simply a question of taking things step by step, using a straightforward, logical approach. Careful planning is invaluable in helping firm up your ideas, work out your budget and timetable and, above all, avoid expensive mistakes.

First comes space planning.

Measure your room accurately and draw a plan to scale on graph paper, marking in windows, doors,

fireplaces, fitted cupboards, pipes, radiators, plug sockets, light fittings and so on. Consider the room’s size and shape, and its architectural style. Will they affect the way in which you decorate?

Are there special considerations, such as lack of space or light, or an important original feature? At this stage, consider whether it would be helpful to move a wall, pipe or radiator, enlarge a window, hang the door the other way around

34

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the home or add extra plug sockets or light switches. Perhaps you can conceal wiring or pipework, or build in some extra storage?

Once you have gone through all the options – consulting a structural engineer if your changes are major ones – you can draw up a final plan.

Next, plan the positions of major items of furniture. On a separate sheet of graph paper, sketch the approximate shapes of your furnishings, as if you were looking at them from above, using the same scale as your room plan.

Then simply cut them out, place them on your master plan and assess how well they fit in to the space, ensuring that you allow enough activity room between and around them. Think about who uses the room, when and how. Move your ‘furniture’ around as necessary and, eventually, the optimum arrangement will become apparent.

To complement the floorplan and ensure that all the decorative elements of a room work together, professional designers create a ‘sample board’: a visual memo of all the different pieces that go towards making up the room.

place the samples roughly in accordance with where they will be in the room. With all the ingredients together, you’ll have a really effective overview of how colours, patterns, shapes and textures work together and can assess the overall effect.

Before you start, you’ll need to find some images of your proposed furniture, flooring, lighting and accessories, as well as swatches of fabric, wallpaper and paint. Try to keep the samples in proportion to the size they’ll be in real life. You can also include real items (or parts of them) such as tie-backs and trims, rope or timber. Your sample board can be highly representative or more of a suggestion of general colours and styles.

Paint swatches to the right show colours by Mylands (020 8670 9161; coloursoflondon.co.uk).

Top to bottom: Burlington Arcade no 216, Eaton Square no 232 and Bloomsbury no 267, £28.12 for 2.5l traditional emulsion.

Then, take a large piece of neutral-coloured card as a base, and arrange the images or swatches on it. It helps if you Jakeman & Jakeman Homecare Steve Jakeman

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35

Six Ways To Make Money From Your Home Turn a spare room into a money-making space by taking in a lodger. Shown here is the Eva Sofa Bed in Egret, £1,045, from sofa.com.

Forget cash in the attic – there’s money in every brick, stone or tile of your house, and even in the garden and garage.

36

1. Rent A Room One in ten homeowners now earns extra cash by letting a spare room to a lodger, according to Santander.

You can also rent to commuters, Mondays to Fridays.

How much can I make?

Average weekly rent is around £90, says spareroom.co.uk.

Pros - You can make up to £4,250 a year tax-free under the Government’s Rent a Room scheme. A good lodger can be a friend, share the housework and keep an eye on the place when you’re away.

Cons - A bad lodger can be a nightmare – in your space, may not pay the rent and hard to remove.

Home insurance may go up.

Need to know - Obtain references, and have a written agreement about rent, bills and how the house is shared. www.landlordzone.co.uk is a good source of information.

You may need permission from your mortgage lender and, if you have one, your leaseholder. Tenants should obtain permission from the landlord.

2. Be A Host For Language Students Many English language schools, and some universities, need ‘host’ families for their students, to provide a bedroom and meals, and

make them feel at home. It’s often just for a week or so, but sometimes longer.

How much can I make?

From around £100 per student per week, before expenses.

Pros - A great way to learn about other cultures, and they’re not with you for long.

Cons - Not a reliable, year-round income.

Need to know - Tell your home contents insurer. Obtain a written contract with the language school.

3. Run A B&B Worth considering if you have a spare room or two and live in a desirable area.

How much can I make?

Depends on location, number of rooms, quality of accommodation and food. About £35 per room per night is a minimum.

Pros - Meet interesting people.

Open for guests when it suits you.

Cons - Early starts, lots of cooking and cleaning. Upfront costs to convert your home, plus marketing, insurance and book-keeping.

Need to know - You may need planning permission, or alterations to meet building regulations. Tell your mortgage lender. Don’t be overly optimistic: start by aiming for a 35-40% occupancy rate.

4. Rent Your Parking Space Rent your drive or garage to a commuter people attending the theatre or a sports event. Advertise in the local paper or online.

By Katherine Sorrell How much can I make?

You could earn £200 a month, depending on your proximity to offices, train/tube stations, stadiums and so on, and the local parking and restrictions.

Pros - Extra money for very little effort.

Cons - Getting rid of someone who stops paying but continues to park could be tricky.

Need to know - You can’t rent out a resident permit holder space, and tenants with a parking space can’t rent it out. Draw up a simple contract, tell your home insurer, and check that the parker has insurance in case he damages your property.

5. Be A Movie Location Your home could be a star. All sorts of properties are used, from council flats to country estates.

How much can I make?

From about £500 per day for stills photography to £2,500 for a bigbudget movie.

Pros - Interesting and excellent money.

Cons - Not a reliable source of income. Could be lots of disruption, and neighbours may object.

Need to know - Most demand is for large houses with good parking within the M25. Signing up with an agency is free, but you’ll pay a commission.

the home

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37

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New Installations Re-wires Additional or replacement Lights, sockets etc Mobile 07761 695101 Email – tinafrancis1@aol.com Newchurch, Romney Marsh, TN29 0DH

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Oil Heating & Oil Cookers R-OAK Services M. Oakley & O.Stanley - Oil-fired Specialists Breakdowns & Servicing • Boiler Installation • Power Flushing AGA, Rayburn, Alpha, Stanley, Worcester, Tel: 01233 770138 www.ohoc.co.uk Grant, Boulter, Potterton, Trianco and more...

Please Mention The

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useful information East Kent Strokes

Emergency 999 Police Neighbhd Team Ashford & Tenterden

Crimestoppers

www.eastkentstrokes.org

101 0800 555 111

Out of Hours Doctor 0845 4349655 William Harvey Hospital 01233 633331

Samaritans

08457 90 90 90

www.samaritans.org Electricity: Southern Electric EDF Energy Gas: Natural LPG

01233 840448

SE Kent Multiple Sclerosis Soc. 07767326138 email: mssoutheast@gmail.com

Royal British Legion CPRE Kent

01233 620 167 01233 714540

National Train Enquiries www.nationalrail.co.uk 0845 770 8090 0800 783 8866 0800 111 999 Details on tank

Bus Enquiries Arriva Bus Enquiries Stage Coach East Kent (Timetable) (Customer Services)

0844 800 44 11 0871 200 22 33 08456 00 22 99

Doctors Surgery Hamstreet Surgery Sellindge Surgery

0844 4773989 01303 812180

Parish Councils:

38

Brabourne & Smeeth Mersham & Sevington

01233 623902 01233 720816

Ashford Borough Council

01233 637311

W: www.ashford.gov.uk

Ashford Gateway 0845 8 247 247 Citizens Advice Bureau 01233 626185 Brabourne and Smeeth Community Warden: Graham Kingston 07813 712805

Village Halls Aldington Brabourne & Smeeth Bilsington Hamstreet Mersham Smeeth Stowting Sellindge Sellindge Spts & Soc. Club

01233 720213 01303 813234 01233 720818 01233 732568 01233 503192 01303 814977 01303 863520 01303 813250 01303 812437

Veterinary Surgeons Montgomery Vets

01303 813756

Ashford Volunteer Centre Age Concern

01233 665 535 01233 620 635

www.ageconcern.org.uk

CARM E: Carmromneymarsh@supanet.com W: Www.carmromneymarsh.org.uk

Macmillan Cancer Support W: www.forget-me-nots.co.uk

Parkinson’s UK, Ashford Branch Contact Mike Wharrad

01233 623530

St. John Ambulance Brigade 01233 611 414

Sucklifts Cesspool Emptying Service ~ Est 1986 ~ Accredited Engineer British Water

High Pressure Jetting Service and Repair to Sewage Treatment Plants

01233 840624

Disclaimer: Every care is taken to ensure this directory is as accurate as possible but the publishers do not accept responsibility for any loss or damage resulting from errors or omissions.

the home

Wilco Plumbing and Heating • Central heating installations & repairs • Boiler replacement 5 Year Guarantee on new Worcester Bosch Boilers • Oil, LPG Gas & Solar Installations • Emergency plumbing and heating works • All gas installation and repair work • Unvented hot water specialist • Landlords gas safety inspections Plumbing and heating engineer with over 30 years experience. Registered with the Institute of Plumbing and the Gas Safe Register for gas work. Registered with KCC Trading Standards as an approved tradesman.

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