Vine Magazine | December 2013

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31 EVERY MONTH 06 HEADLINES 10 MONTHLY MUSTS 12 YOUR VINE 22 FAMILY AND KIDS 35 SEVENOAKS SHOWCASE 36 WHAT’S ON? 38 MUMBLINGS

WELLNESS

FEATURE 18 CHRISTMAS IN SEVENOAKS Vine rounds up the top things to do this Christmas in and around Sevenoaks. From cosy evenings in to great Christmas family events, we've got something to keep you busy up until 25 December

24 VINE STYLE

Natalie Lambert explores some of the most fashionable clothing up for grabs this Christmas. Includes great inspiration for Christmas party outfits to make sure you’re the belle of the ball

20 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE Vine takes a look at the top picks for this year’s Christmas gifts. From gifts that will get you active and moving in the New Year to exclusive jewellery pieces and designer men’s clothing, there’s something in there for all of the family

26 WALK OF THE MONTH

Don’t let the chill stop you from going outside as Vine looks at some top walks to take

Cover image: Sevenoaks Winter Wonderland Illustration by Max Neilson

PROFESSIONAL 16 GRAPEVINE We take a look back at our successful October networking event held at Walthamstow Hall.

We were lucky enough to welcome some of the aspirational girls of Wally Hall to the event

HOME & GARDEN 31 INTERIOR TRENDS

As we get into the festive season, Christopher Pfeiffer looks at how to furnish your home with some Christmas spirit

Welcome to Vine Hello and welcome to the December edition of Vine!

It’s been quite a month here preparing for the Christmas holidays.

We can hardly believe it’s this time of year again as we’ve been busy getting together all sorts of Christmas-related activities and guides so you can make the most out of this festive season.

We have lots packed into this edition, including our feature article which is your guide to Christmas in Sevenoaks (p.18) giving you daily activities through the Christmas season. We look at the various festive activities being held, what to do, and where to go to get you in the festive spirit.

Now in the midst of the shopping season, we have a great gift guºide for you, including a range of toys, stylish accessories and clothing for the whole family to make sure you feel and look festive this winter!

Our Vine & Dine (p.28) takes you through simple recipes and tips to make sure your cooking skills are up to scratch in time for your parties!

From Christmas-themed baking recipes for the kids to the perfect delightful chocolates and top tips for making a perfect turkey, it has it all!

And of course we feature all our regular snippets such as Monthly Musts (p.10), Vine Style (p.24), and Interior Trends (p.31)!

Wishing you a very merry Christmas and a splendid new year.

Have a great December!

FOOD & DRINK 28 VINE & DINE

This month, Vine looks at a great recipe for some Christmas baking as well as tips for getting your Christmas turkey just right

Join Vine online facebook.com/vinemagazine twitter.com/vinemagazine

vinedigital.co.uk December 2013 vine 5

HEADLINES

£55k for local charity

Further recognition for Town Partnership Sevenoaks Town Partnership has won the overall South Zone award for Market Towns – Towns Alive National Awards.

The Partnership had some tough competition; however, it managed to impress the judges with its innovative and inclusive approach to collaborative working, stating that “by bringing together a range of diverse but complementary organisations, combining resources and working to a common aim, the Partnership has enabled projects to be delivered far quicker and more effectively that they would otherwise be”. Flagship projects like Information Pods, the Sevenoaks Website (developed and designed by Vine), and the Sevenoaks Vintage Bus helped win over judges in the competition.

Pink geese for charity A group of local friends have reared free range geese for Christmas in aid of Kent Hospice and breast cancer research. The idea was born in a pub and so they began raising these “pink” geese to be sold off at Christmas with all proceeds going to charity. Collection will take place Shipbourne Farmers Market. n To reserve your goose, contact Ralph Jordan on 07788 660695 or email at ralphjordan@me.com.

The Friends of Shelby Newstead charity had a hugely successful fundraising event in which they were able to raise £55,000. The charity aims to help children and their families in coping with serious illness. 480 people attended the fundraiser, which included an excellent buffet, a champagne reception and lots of dancing.

Funds were raised through an auction, a charity calendar put together by the Meopham Cricket Club and donations. The band The Real Thing even made an appearance, travelling from Croydon, and sang for the last hour of the event.

Professor Sprout celebrates with Kent College Kent College was lucky enough to host actress Miriam Margolyes OBE as their 2013 Birthday Lecture speaker. Margolyes is best known for her work as a voice artist and actress with roles in The Age of Innocence (1993), the Blackadder series, and as Professor Sprout in the Harry Potter films. She lived up to expectations as she gave a background to her acting career as well as advice to students about following their dreams. At the end of her lecture, she answered questions from the audience before signing copies of her book Dickens' Woman.

VINe

we’d love to hear from you EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES

01732 760823 www.vinedigital.co.uk hello@vinedigital.co.uk Vine Publishing Ltd 3A Lakeview Stables, St Clere, Heaverham, Sevenoaks Kent TN15 6NL

DESIGNERS Matt Handley matt@vinedigital.co.uk Yuri Tamburrini yuri@vinedigital.co.uk Emma Corkill emma@vinedigital.co.uk David Groombridge david.groombridge@vinedigital.co.uk Max Neilson max.neilson@vinedigital.co.uk

MARKETING EXECUTIVES Nic Lapham nic@vinedigital.co.uk Chris de Rusett christopher@vinedigital.co.uk

WEB DEVELOPERS Matthew Bull matthew@vinedigital.co.uk Mark Bailey mark.bailey@vinedigital.co.uk Patrick Martins-Yedenu patrick@vinedigital.co.uk Jamie French jamie@vinedigital.co.uk

EDITORIAL Cara McGoogan cara.mcgoogan@vinedigital.co.uk Chris Pfeiffer chris.pfeiffer@vinedigital.co.uk Natalie Lambert natalie.lambert@vinedigital.co.uk

SUB EDITOR Amanda Hayden

Markerstudy puts on a show!

Tunbridge Wells gets active

Charity Will service in Kent

Christmas tree festival

Markerstudy Group has announced their first ever pantomime. Their performance of Aladdin will take place from 15 to 17 December at the Victorian Theatre, specifically for local emergency services staff and their families. Tickets are free of charge, but money raised through bucket collections will go to Help for Heroes and The Pickering Cancer Drop-in Centre.

The National Dimension Gymnastic Academy (NDGA) has started supporting the council initiative to get lowincome families more active. The Go!Card Scheme offers people 50% off the joining fee, 25% off gymnastic classes and 25% off the gym.

The NDGA has facilities for gymnastics and other disciplines such as free running, for people of all ages.

Whitehead Monkton, a Kent law firm, have generously spent a fortnight from 21 October to 1 November updating Wills, waiving their normal fee in exchange for donations made to Pilgrims Hospices.

The firm has raised over £2100 in total for Pilgrims Hospices, which have provided support for people who have lifelimiting illnesses for over 30 years.

Westerham is preparing for its spectacular annual display of Christmas trees in the town’s 800-year old church. From the 28 November, St Mary’s Westerham will become filled with the twinkling lights of Christmas trees.

The event is organised by the local community and the St Mary’s Heritage Trust, with all contributions going towards lighting up the aisles for 10 days.

VINE PUBLISHING LTD PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Owen Hunnam owen@vinedigital.co.uk

CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Charlie de Rusett charlie@vinedigital.co.uk

PA TO DIRECTORS Emily Swift emily.swift@vinedigital.co.uk Hannah Breen hannah.breen@vinedigital.co.uk Vine is published monthly in the UK by Vine Publishing Ltd. (Company reg no: 7195338) with a total circulation of 15,000. 8,500 land on the doormats of selected Sevenoaks households. An additional 6,500 are available through our extensive distribution network of over 150 pick-up points across the district. Printed in the UK. Please recycle Vine. © 2013. All rights reserved.

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BMW Winter Tyres

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The Ultimate Driving Machine

FOUR OF THIS SEASON’S MUST-HAVES.

AS TEMPERATURES FALL BELOW 7°C, BMW WINTER TYRES WILL PROVIDE OPTIMUM GRIP TO KEEP YOU SAFELY ON THE ROAD. Many drivers don’t appreciate that the performance of their tyres is affected when temperatures drop below 7°C which, let’s face it, is on most days in a typical British winter. A set of winter wheels and tyres with their special rubber compound and grooves is available from £700 RRP per set*, and is by far the safer option in these colder months. To make life easier for you, we’ll even store your standard wheels and tyres for just £30 until it’s time to switch them back again in spring.

AS THE SEASONS CHANGE, SWITCH TO BMW WINTER TYRES FOR A SAFER DRIVE. For more information on using winter tyres in colder conditions, or to locate your nearest dealer, please visit www.coopersevenoaksbmw.co.uk or call us on 01732 464154.

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The Vestry Estate, Otford Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN14 5EL 01732 464154 www.coopersevenoaksbmw.co.uk Winter wheels and tyres are available on selected models and subject to availability. *Recommended retail price of £700 is based on steel wheel style 12, tyre dimension 195/55R16 87H and one set of wheel covers for BMW 1 Series. Wheel shown is alloy wheel style 141, tyre dimension 205/50R17 89H, recommended retail price of £1,540. All prices are for a set of four wheels and tyres, prices include VAT but exclude fitting.

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HEADLINES

Combe Bank choir perform in France

Hunt the sausage in 2014 Eynsford-based Norman’s Butchers have launched a 2014 calendar with a theme of “Hunt the Sausage” in the style of a “Where’s Wally”. Each page of the calendar features a picture of Eynsford where, thanks to some clever use of Photoshop by Barry and Jane Parten of The Photographers’ Workshop in Eynsford, a sausage has been hidden in each photo. The calendar has its proceeds split towards St Martin’s Church and the 1 Eynsford & Farningham Scout Group. Each month, Norman’s Butchers will award a prize of a pound of sausages to the person who can find the sausage for that month.

Call 01322 862146 for more information.

Local winner in Fake Bake competition Alice Dyer from Kent is one of six winners in Fake Bake’s Real Women Competition. The competition had thousands of entrants, but only six could win the prize of being the front of their new Christmas campaign. The competition was judged by reality TV stars Sam Faiers from TOWIE and Big Brother’s Josie Gibson as well as Fake Bake’s own Sandra Mclumpha. Alice, however, isn’t your average “girlygirl”, she is studying a degree in Agriculture and when she isn’t at university, she is working on various sheep farms around her home town in West Malling.

Alice is an inspiration to all other women to get their hands dirty in order to make a living and so she was chosen as one of Fake Bake’s Real Women.

The community-based choir have just returned from a very successful trip to Burgundy in France. The choir was privileged enough to sing in church services at Dijon and Chalon-sur-Saône as well as concerts in Meursault and Anzy-le-Duc, raising money for local charities. At Taizé, the group took part in workshops and services for the community and 4,000 French teenagers and performed the Fauré Requiem to an audience of hundreds of schoolchildren. New members are always encouraged to join the choral society, which normally meets at the school on Monday evenings.

Travel back to the 80s The Sevenoaks museum is currently holding an exhibition on the 1980s, examining some of the main themes of the decade like the raising of Mary Rose in 1982; the Miners' Strike of 1984; the first Live Aid concert of 1985; the Great Storm of 1987 and the falling of the Berlin Wall in 1989. On display you will also find objects from the decade such as music, clothing, books, toys and games. The exhibition will run until 31 March 2014 during the normal library hours. n For more information call 03000 413131

National Youth Ballet return The National Youth Ballet make a return visit this year to perform its beautiful and brilliant interpretation of The Nativity at St Mary’s Church on 7 December. This is a rare opportunity to see the story of the first Christmas being performed by young dancers.

With the backdrop of the Christmas Tree Festival going on at the same time as well as harp ensembles and carols for both performances, it promises to be a magical experience! The performances are scheduled at 14:30 and 17:30 that day and tickets are available at nationalyouthballet.org!

Orangery doors stay open

Help a charity this Christmas

Parking prices set to increase

Sevenoaks Prep look for alumni

Christmas parties for kids

As the Knole Showroom doors close for the winter period, the Orangery doors stay open for the Vita at Knole exhibition, back by popular demand.

Adding a host of winter activities, there are plenty of reasons to visit. Until 22 December, there will be an exhibition of photographs, letters and quotations displaying the relationship Vita had with the house that she could never inherit.

A children’s hospice charity is looking for voluntary assistance over the Christmas period in its new shop in Westerham.

The chYps Children’s Hospice recently opened their new store in October and have seen great success so far. This Christmas they’re calling for extra help which will allow them to stay open 7 days a week. For more information contact the store on 01959 564328.

Sevenoaks District Council intends to raise parking fees in order to meet budget requirements of £90,000. You will be able to have your say after Christmas once the plans have been agreed upon at a cabinet meeting.

Thus far the plans have been met with anger by residents and local shop owners. For more information and to have your say visit www.sevenoaks.gov.uk

Sevenoaks Prep would like to hear from you if you were once a pupil or parent at the school. The Sevenoaks Prep Alumni Association have some very exciting activities planned for 2014 as part of the expansion of their alumni network. Get in touch via the school website www.theprep. org.uk/alumni.aspx or email Liz Reading, development@ theprep.org.uk

Local baby, toddler and pre-school music group, Musical Bumps, is holding two charity Christmas parties for under 5s and their parents on 18 December. Raising money for Jessie’s Fund, the parties will take place at St. Mary’s Church Hall, Riverhead at 9.30 and 10.45. For more information contact 07799 061258 or by email at ruth.gordon@ musicalbumps.com

8 vine December 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

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vinedigital.co.uk December 2013 vine 9

NEW BUILDS

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RENOVATIONS

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EXTENSIONS

MUST-LISTEN After the huge success of his critically acclaimed debut album, Jake Bugg is back with his follow-up, Shangri La. With influences from artists such as Oasis, Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash, Bugg has become one of the best young British musicians. His songs are now more sophisticated than before, broadening his musical style, and are performed effortlessly and with feeling. His distinctive voice, catchy songs and worthwhile lyrics make this album one of the most anticipated of the year. n Available from www.itunes.com

MUST-READ Robert Harris is back with his new novel An Officer and a Spy. Based on a true story about a French Officer who saved falsely convicted Jewish Captain Alfred Dreyfus in 1890’s Paris, this compelling recreation is full of historical analysis which also associates with our modern world. While the story's ending is already known, Harris has packed it full of gripping language to portray the fascinating twists and turns in this adventure.

MONTHLY

MUSTS

n Hardback edition available now at the reduced price of £15.99 from Sevenoaks Bookshop. Visit www.sevenoaksbookshop.co.uk

December 2013

A round-up of trends, what’s new and must-have buys from your local area

MUST-VISIT This winter, Knole has a great deal of events to entertain the whole family. From a walk in the park to explore Kent’s largest deer park to carol concerts, there is plenty going on to get you into the festive mood. They are also holding Christmas decoration workshops for the children to keep them entertained!

Their expert crafters will make sure your children get creative and make a unique decoration using materials including wood and foliage from Knole Park.

MUST-SEE Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Pantomime! There are so many local performances this year including The Stag’s performance of ‘Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood’ and The Assembly Hall’s performance of ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’. Packed full of action, music and comedy they are perfect entertainment for the whole family! n For all local pantomime performances visit www.bigpantoguide.co.uk

n For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/knole

MUST-DO This year the boys at The Better Body Shop are raising money for the Kent Air Ambulance by selling a naked calendar! They are simply asking for a donation to the charity (recommended £10) which will also come with a free voucher for a health MOT valid from January 1 worth £51!! Make sure you pop down there to pick up your copy! n For more information contact The Better Body Shop at Unit 3, Sevenoaks Enterprise Centre, Sevenoaks, TN14 5LJ or at www.betterbodyshop.co.uk

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Royal Tunbridge Wells at

Ice Skating In The Park

Friday 22 November – Sunday 5 January

Tunbridge Wells at Christmas @RTW_Xmas

www.tunbridgewellsatchristmas.com

Supported by

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SECOND INTERVIEW

The page that’s all about you

Top tweets

Follow Vine on Twitter @VineMagazine

Our pick of the best local tweets this month

@VineMagazine Just saw myself on page 16 of the current issue!

Keep up the good work guys, a great magazine

@VineMagazine The Seven Sushi Launch party was fabulous! Great place :-)

@BarristerBroker

@NSSphoto

@7SushiSevenoaks a quality place for modern Japanese food in sevenoaks!

Well overdue!

Looking forward to the next visit

@QueenB_Belinda

NEWS FROM

THE MP with Michael Fallon MP

Last month the Governor of the Bank of England, Mark Carney, announced “the recovery has finally taken hold”.

It has not been easy to reach this point, but the Government’s plan has restored credibility to the UK economy and, thanks to the efforts of hardworking people and business, we are turning a corner.

We now have the highest number of people in employment ever in the UK – almost 30 million – and a steady decline in those currently seeking work. The benefits cap has also been a success. In the South East, 2665 households have had their benefits capped, meaning families are no longer able to claim more in benefits than the average family earns by going out to work.

Despite this positive news, times are still tough. Many are rightly concerned about the cost of energy, especially in these winter months.

As Energy Minister I am pleased that the government is legislating to ensure consumers are put on the cheapest tariff. I’m also happy they are backing home-grown energy, with the commission of the first new nuclear power station for a generation, to help keep energy costs down. We will continue to look at ways to cut bills for households, from reducing green levies to exploring opportunities with shale gas.

The only way to raise living standards is to stick to the plan. We already have frozen council tax and fuel duty and capped rail fare increases. Now, we are helping with gas and electricity bills.

Hard-working people deserve support.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all my constituents a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. n Have a question for the MP? Please

send to editor@vinedigital.co.uk

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Stephanie Harrison Stephanie Harrison answers our questions on her work as a fundraiser for the Breast Cancer Care campaign What are the current awareness projects that you are working on?

At the moment we are promoting BCC Body Image Campaign. The pictures, which you can see on Breast Cancer Care's website, are powerful but uplifting and dynamic.

What got you so involved in breast cancer awareness?

I became involved with BCC and spreading the important message of breast awareness after my own diagnosis in 2008. Seeing a young lady in her 20s being told she had breast cancer put me on my path as a fundraiser. I am lucky to have amazing support from the people and businesses of Sevenoaks, especially people like Daniel Jordan, who has been and continues to be a true supporter of myself and the work I do for Breast Cancer Care.

What can people do in their everyday lives to help and be more involved?

If everyone did one event a year to help Breast Cancer Care. We are the only breast cancer charity in the UK whose sole aim is to inform and support anyone affected by breast cancer. Maybe getting friends together for a Strawberry Tea or taking part in one of our Pink Ribbon walks. n Check out the website www.breastcancercare.org.uk to find out more on how you can get involved

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vinedigital.co.uk December 2013 vine 13

Follow Vine on Twitter @VineMagazine

The page that’s all about you

CHRISTMAS DISPLAYS In our uncontainable excitement at the fast-approaching festive season we took to the streets of Sevenoaks to see how the the High Street is celebrating this year. There’s some great window displays out there – check them out for yourself! To see more festive photos throughout the next month, head to Twitter @VineMagazine or facebook.com/vinemagazine, enjoy!

of their Oxfam have opted for a display to buy le ilab ava s card Charity Christmas

Paperchase has created a beautiful display of its top cards and gifts

Crew Clothing display their stylish winter clothing

as bouquets and Flowers & Sparkle have Christm ive season fest the plants to sell throughout

The beautifully decorated tree is the focal point for Maisie K’s windows

SEVENOAKS STAR Alasdair Russell Having just returned from a major expedition to climb Mera Peak in Nepal, 16-year-old Alasdair Russell was by far the youngest in the group, and managed to make it to the top. Only two of the original 12 made it to the top, and Alasdair had to trek an average of eight hours a day to make it to the summit where the wind was blowing at about 100 miles per hour. In this expedition, he managed to raise £10,000 for a video for families when a parent has cancer, which is hosted by the Orchid Cancer Appeal website. Well done Alasdair from all of us here at Vine Publishing!

There will be a Santa’s Grotto for the first two Sundays of December at Danish Collection

READERS’ PETS PET NAME: Zora OWNER: Daniel Murphy LIKES AND DISLIKES: Zora’s favourite thing is when I am around! She is very much a people dog and loves to interact and keep me company. She dislikes it when she is left on her own!

FAVOURITE TREAT: Anything if it’s not picked up off the floor fast enough! Her true love however is bacon!

A WORD FROM THE OWNER: She was given to me as a tiny pup from a coat pocket and has been the best of companions to me. She goes pretty much any place I go.

If you think you’ve got a print-worthy pet then email us at editor@vinedigital.co.uk

14 vine December 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

PROFESSIONAL

FINANCIAL

MATTERS Nigel Taylor of NJT Accountancy discusses company car tax changes

T

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he provision of a company car is normally a taxable benefit for an employee or a director. The company car benefit charge for a full year is calculated by multiplying the price of the car for tax purposes (in most cases, its list price plus accessories less capital contributions) by the ‘appropriate percentage’.

The ‘appropriate percentage’ used to calculate the benefit is based on the level of CO2 emissions. The benefit charge is then subject to tax at the effective tax rate of each individual. Employers pay Class 1A national insurance contributions (NICs) on the benefit at 13.8%.

The annual taxable value of the benefit remains up to a maximum of 35% of the list price of the car when first registered.

The list price includes the full cost of the car, car tax (if applicable), VAT and delivery charges. There is no cap on the list price of the car for calculating the benefit. The list price of most accessories must be included whether fitted when new or subsequently.

Cars running solely on diesel fuel are currently subject to a 3% supplement, subject to the 35% cap. Employees and directors who are provided with a company car that is propelled solely by electricity will not have to pay tax on the benefit. Additionally, cars first registered before January 1998, for which there are no reliable CO2 emissions data, are taxed according to their engine size.

Fuel benefit charge

referred to previously.

There is no fuel benefit charge for vehicles propelled solely by electricity.

Employee contributions Where the employee is required as a condition of the car being made available to pay for the private use of a car, the value of the benefit is reduced accordingly on a pound for pound basis.

By contrast it is ‘all or nothing’ for the fuel benefit charge, which means the full tax charge on the value of the benefit is due unless the employee reimburses all private fuel costs.

Tax payable Income tax at the basic, higher or additional rate is chargeable depending on the employee’s rate of pay. The tax is usually collected under the PAYE system by appropriate adjustment of the employee’s tax code.

For the benefit to be attractive, the employee must pay less in extra tax than it would cost them to run their own car out of their taxed income.

Pool cars There is no tax for using a pool car. This is one where private use is merely incidental to the business use, and it is not normally used by one employee to the exclusion of all others.

Please note that a pool car must not normally be kept overnight at or near an employee’s home. n For advice contact NJT Accountancy on 01732 446462 or visit www.njtaccountancy.co.uk

Where the employer also pays for any fuel used privately by the employee, there is an additional benefit charge applied to a standard value of £21,100. This charge is based on the same CO2 car benefit percentages

vinedigital.co.uk December 2013 vine 15

Next month’s Grapevine will be held at The Better Body Shop on Wednesday 29 January from 6pm-7.30pm. Visit vinedigital.co.uk/grapevine to register for your free invite

In October, Walthamstow Hall played host to our networking event. It was a wonderful evening of networking, seeing new and familiar faces, and of course wine and canapés!

“Lots of people for Grapevine #Sevenoaks tonight hosted by @ VineMagazine, loved the canapés!”

Breakfast Friends Sevenoaks @bfastfriends

“Had a wonderful time at the #grapevine event. Thank you @ VineMagazine for organising such a good evening.”

Janna Cherry @ CherryJanna

“@VineMagazine excellent networking tonight. #Walthamstowhall school in #Sevenoaks was a good venue. Lots of great business contacts.”

The Barrister Broker @BarristerBroker “Another busy @vinemagazine networking event.This month at the sought after Walthamstow Hall school for girls” Rob Brown Marketing @brandbrowncouk

“Another great networking evening run by @VineMagazine at#WalthamstowHall Thanks guys! #Grapevine”

“Good to see everyone at #grapevine tonight. @VineMagazine good to see a few familiar faces as well as plenty of new ones.”

James Burroughs @jamesburroughs_

Andy Snook @PerformEvaluate “Great art. Great people. Great event. Thanks @ VineMagazine #grapevine event #sevenoaks” David Bowers @D_K_Bowers

16 vine December 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

“@VineMagazine thanks for hosting #grapevine really inspired by the Young Entrepreneurs from Walthamstow Hall.”

Amanda Sokell @amandasokell

PROFESSIONAL

FOREIGN

EXCHANGE

The team at Warners Solicitors offer regular expert advice on topics relevant to our everyday lives. This month Rayma Collins looks at Later Life Changes

MSP Foreign Exhange Services are raising the standard in currency exchange and international money transfers.

This month they tell us why a rise in UK interest rates may not mean a stronger Pound

T

here have been plenty of column inches lately about the dilemma facing new Bank of England Governor, Mark “ Gorgeous George” Carney, over the right time to raise interest rates in the UK. His “forward guidance” when he first took over, giving indications of when this might happen, linked the action to achieving a 2% annual rate of inflation and a 7% level of unemployment. Such apparent initial clarity has now become a little foggier as Carney & Co have been at great pains lately to stress that these targets are not an automatic trigger but merely a line in the sand where the Old Lady will re-appraise the state of the economy.

The inherent danger to the economy (and particularly household income) of a rise or “normalisation” in interest rates is something I see as a real threat to our still fragile recovery. With many households still struggling to pay the bills and keep a roof over their heads, the recent headline data has been less than consistent, despite Carney and Osborne

LEGAL MATTERS

both being quick to pronounce that a solid recovery is underway.

Currency markets can be somewhat myopic and traders at first thought that a rise in interest rates would strengthen the Pound due to higher yields for overseas investors, thus attracting foreign buyers of Sterling. While this is still a popular idea amongst analysts and traders, there is now also a growing feeling that the damage to the economy of stunting the current recovery is real and must not be underestimated.

The Pound has recently been performing fairly well in the “best of a bad bunch” contest that has been going on for the past couple of years, but we must not assume that will continue. Currency markets are the most fickle and a change in sentiment can be rapid.

In the case of raising the level of interest rates, discretion should certainly prove the better part of valour. OK, so other countries such as the US will have their own problems when interest rates start to rise but current levels, and any further rallies, in GBP should provide good selling opportunity.

S

tatistics suggest that divorce rates have been falling steadily since the 1990s but there is one age group continuing to buck this trend.

There has been a distinct increase in the number of divorces granted to the over 60s with petitions for divorce increasing from 5,000 per year for men and 3,200 for women in the 1990s compared to about 9,500 and 5,800 respectively in 2011.

There will be many explanations for this increase, one of which could well be the fact that we are statistically living much longer, on average four more years than we would have been predicted to live on reaching the age of 60 back in 1991. Also, many couples are choosing to have children later in life, resulting in family nests emptying much later in life.

Other reasons for this increase could be the loss of stigma once associated with breakdown of marriage and the rise of silver surfing. Bountiful online opportunities, such as social networking, may well be as much as a contributory factor for over 60s deciding to divorce as it is for those with less life experience.

At Warners we fully recognise that one size does not fit all, especially when it comes to solving issues that arise when a family breaks down later in life.

As a trained Collaborative lawyer, I am able to offer my clients the attractive, yet scarcely known, opportunity of managing their separation in a dignified and civilised way, minimising spousal conflict or the significant expense of Court proceedings, often associated with divorce.

n To find out more about Collaborative Law or other alternative options to traditional divorce, please call 01732 747900 or email family@warners-solicitors.co.uk to arrange a no obligation consultation. Follow Warners on Twitter @KentSolicitors

Rayma Collins n Contact Mike Paterson directly at mike@mspfx.co.uk or call 01732 700383 and get your free consultation by mentioning this article. For more information visit www.mspfx.co.uk

Mike Paterson lives locally and spent 20 years in the Inter-bank Spot FX market as a senior trader with UBS and Credit Suisse and now runs www.mspfx.co.uk. He also presents workshops and seminars throughout the UK as well as writing for a number of publications. Other credits include numerous appearances on the Bloomberg Financial TV and Radio stations, as well as BBC Radio 5Live and being an in-house analyst at www.forexlive.com.

Whether you’re buying/selling a house abroad, exporting/importing goods and services or just need some currency cash, MSPFX will be happy to help.

Partner - Collaborative Lawyer Tel: 01732 747904 Email: rayma.collins@warners-solicitors.co.uk Areas of Expertise • Matrimonial/Divorce • Separation Agreement • Children Act Proceedings (Contact/Residence/Specific Issue) • Cohabitation Disputes/Cohabitation Contracts • Prenuptial Agreements • Financial & Property Matters on Divorce/Separation Professional Memberships • Resolution (formerly SFLA) • Accredited Specialist - Law Society Family Law Panel • Collaborative Lawyer

vinedigital.co.uk December 2013 vine 17

Still got lots of Christmas shopping to do? No worries, Bligh’s Meadow have all you need. In addition to their usual 35 shops, from today they will be holding their Christmas Craft Market until 24 December. www.blighsmeadow.com

Café Rouge in Sevenoaks is helping out the Deptford Methodist Church by asking patrons to collect a tag with a child’s name on from their giving tree, and donate a gift for the named child. Head to restaurant for more information.

Visit Ightham Mote in all its festive glory!

Then, head to the Squires Room with the children for some quick and easy Christmas craft activities. Running from 11am-3pm, this is a free event until 23 December. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Take the children down to Leeds Castle this weekend where they can enjoy a wonderful festive experience. Make sure you go for a Husky Sleigh Ride, then meet them personally for a group photograph! www.leeds-castle.com

It’s compulsory to have a Christmas movie marathon day in December!

Stay at home and watch classics such as Miracle on 34thStreet and It’s a Wonderful Life, or take a trip to the cinema for this year’s top Christmas film Frozen.

It’s time to start decorating the house so why not get the children involved in making their own decorations? These craft activities range from simple paper snowflakes to more advanced Christmas bunting, head down to Hobbycraft in Tunbridge Wells for all your craft needs!

Wrap up and take a walk around the enchanting gardens and beautifully decorated interior of Hever Castle. Just for Christmas they’ve got a carousel, a range of vintage stalls and a special Santa’s grotto! www.hevercastle.co.uk

Pop down to Polhill Garden Centre and take the kids to see Santa! You will be greeted by Santa’s elves before commencing on a unique 20-minute experience in Santa’s grotto! Afterwards why not check out their Christmas department to pick up some Christmas home accessories. www.polhillonline.co.uk

This Christmas Penshurst Place will be transformed into the magical world of Narnia! Take a step through the giant wardrobe into winter wonderland for a unique family experience until 22 December. www.penshurstplace.com

Before the parties and celebrations begin, have a last day out by going on a winter walk! Whether it’s all about discovering local pubs or just taking in the view, gather up your friends and family and have a fun and festive get-together!

Get into the festive spirit with carols in the medieval courtyard at Ightham Mote. You’ll receive a glass of mulled wine followed by a two-course supper in the Mote Restaurant. Also on 14, 20 and 21. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Head down to Lullingstone Country Park for some winter family fun. Their Christmas-themed walks around the park, followed by a traditional twocourse Christmas meal, are held daily from 11am-3pm until 20 December

As the big day is only a few days away, treat the children (and adults!) to a trip to see Santa’s Reindeer! They will be staying in the grounds of Leeds Castle from 7-24 December. This attraction is included in your admission price.

Experience a nativity performance unlike any other at Kent Life. With their own farmyard animals, the Maidstone Family Church will take you on a journey, discovering the nativity scenes as well as Christmas carolling. www.visitkent.co.uk

The big day is fast approaching, meaning you should be sending out your Christmas cards! Why not have a craft day making cards and presents for your loved ones? Collect a range of materials and let your imagination run wild!

Pantomimes are a Christmas must! This year The Stag Theatre’s production of Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood stars Australian actor Alan Fletcher and X Factor star Andy Abraham until 5 January. www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk

Have a great day with the family enjoying baked treats whilst watching Christmas TV! The ‘Track Santa’ app is a great way to entertain the kids as they follow Santa’s world trip. Don’t forget to hang up your stockings!

The ever popular Santa special days at the Spa Valley Railway are back every weekend in December! Treat your family to a steam train ride before meeting Santa in his magical Christmas grotto. www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk

The Tunbridge Wells open air ice rink in Calverley Grounds is bigger and better than before! It’s open seven days a week until 5 January. As well as this there will also be authentic Christmas chalets with local retailers offering a range of gifts and refreshments.

Head to St Mary’s Church in Westerham to see their annual festival of Christmas trees! Open until 8 December, 10am-5pm, they will also be hosting a Carol service on Westerham Green at 5pm

The best loved festive Dickens story comes to stage!

This family friendly winter production is guaranteed to entertain people of ages, as Talkwood Productions present this amazing musical performance, stopping in Tunbridge Wells on its tour around the country. www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

This year the Fairfax Gallery has an exclusive Christmas exhibition! The Pantiles will showcase an array of new paintings and sculpture from 20 talented artists until 10 January. For more information visit www.fairfaxgallery.com

Gather your friends and family together and head down to Knole Park this month for a Christmas lunch. Their tasty two or three-course meals will be served between 12pm-2.30pm until 20 December. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

As the kids are about to break up from school it’s time to make sure all the wrapping is done! Why not take extra care in presentation with the most special gifts by adding ribbons, bows and a gift bag!

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Your Sevenoaks family pinboard

Winning with Honey

H

earty congratulations go to Mr Hayward and his team of young beekeepers from Kent College Pembury who have recently won first prize in the 82nd National Honey Show, which was held on 26-28 October in Weybridge.

The honey was produced by Kent College’s lunchtime beekeeping club, and won first prize in Class 92 which is defined as “Two jars of honey produced by a school apiary". The team also achieved a highly commended status in a composite class of three jars of honey, a block of purified beeswax and a frame of honey ready for extraction. The beekeeping club is a science-based club in which the members learn about beekeeping itself, making honey and other honey-related products such as lip balms and candles.

The bees and their hives live in the school’s woodland orchard. n For more information on what happens at Kent College, visit www.kent-college.co.uk or if you want to know more about the National Honey Show, visit www.honeyshow.co.uk

Festive Baking Activities Keep the family busy and entertained in the kitchen this Christmas

T

mas o make sure you are prepared for all of your Christ bread ginger From ! baking of day a have not meals, why ng, men and cookies to mince pies and Christmas puddi while idea great A taste. and bake to es goodi there are so many er. Not only your kids are home for the holidays is to bake togeth you will but do, to fun thing some ones young will it give your the Make . meals festive have tasty goodies to have with those bake to kids your ng teachi gh throu tional educa holiday season n kit. Exercise and showing them how to use various bits of kitche and decorate. create can they what seeing by ability their creative Christmas some with off Our Vine & Dine section will start you ude of multit a follow can you there from and ts Snowman biscui your in and online le Christmas-themed baking recipes availab local shops. Head down to Cake Craft World for the best baking accessories!

Top quality music classes for child ren from newborn to starting school! s:

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Join us for musical games, perc ussion, songs ur o y n and lullabies from around the worl unt o d. Real music disco rm’s fee! deliv te ered by real musicians, with clas first ses tailored to each stage of your child’s deve lopment.

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22 vine December 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

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vinedigital.co.uk December 2013 vine 23

WELLNESS

La Manica would like to thank all of their loyal customers for their support over the past year. Join Donatella for the late night shopping event on Holly Bush Lane on December 12th for some surprise special offers and refreshments!

Jumper available for £135 Necklace available for £39

Stone & Bead Stretch Bracelet Dorothy Perkins, £12.50

n La Manica, 33 Holly Bush Lane, Sevenoaks, www.lamanica.co.uk

Autograph Suede Water Resistant Platform Court Shoes Marks & Spencer, £49.50 Invitation Monica dress Hobbs, £159.20

Bette Premium Earring Monsoon, £39

Dayna Pearl Diamante Necklace Phase Eight, £25

As the festive party season is fast approaching, make sure you don’t leave it too late to pick up that perfect outfit. This month Natalie Lambert takes a look at the best buys in Sevenoaks

Embellished Pencil Dress Dorothy Perkins £65

Sequin tassel shoulder bag Accessorize £29

Pewter Glitter Peep Toe Court Shoes Next, £32

Sequin and Beaded Mesh Top Laura Ashley, £77

Friends for 20 years Serena and Kari are thrilled to have opened their new business. Lovell & Vie is a Lingerie and Swimwear shop offering a unique approach to shopping in a relaxing and welcoming environment. Stocking the latest ranges of brands such as Wacoal, Chantelle, Huit, Fantasie, Freya, B’Tempt’d and By Caprice as well as a lovely selection of sleep and loungewear. Serena and Kari are very happy to be part of the charming and friendly community in Holly Bush Lane.

46 Holly Bush Lane, Sevenoaks TN13 3TL,

01732 454445

INTRODUCING CORK FASHION TO SEVENOAKS

With their unique approach to style, Vine looks into why Cortiça Chic is the up-and-coming fashion store in Sevenoaks

W

ith the aim of targeting the eco-conscious market, Cortiça Chic Ltd was formed in 2011 and now market stylish, durable and sustainable fashion accessories. As an alternative to leather, their selection of handcrafted handbags,

jewellery, footwear and numerous other items are produced using bark from the finest Portuguese Cork Oak Trees.

We spoke to the owners, Paul and Ana, to ask them about this interesting choice of material and they said: "We believe cork is the new leather. It is silky-soft to the touch, lightweight, water-resistant, stain-resistant, easy to clean and absolutely gorgeous!" These 100% natural and recyclable products will not only ensure you look stylish, but in buying them, you will be contributing to the preservation of a natural, renewable resource and an ecological environment.

Cortiça Chic are constantly researching into new designs and product

lines which enable them to further extend their range of products in order to share this extremely versatile and unique material.

Paul and Ana stumbled upon an empty premises on Old School Walk after visiting and falling in love with the Sevenoaks area, and thought it would be the perfect place to introduce and showcase their unique and bespoke items. Inspired by European quality and design, Cortiça Chic’s products combine a mixture of style and versatility and because Cork is a natural material, each item is truly unique; no one else will have anything like it! n For more information about their products and materials visit www.corticachic.com or call 01732 461074. 4 Old School Walk, Sevenoaks, TN13 1AD

vinedigital.co.uk December 2013 vine 25

A chill in the air shouldn’t stop you from going out this Christmas season. The winter walk makes for an excellent and traditional British pasttime. Christopher Pfeiffer takes you through two of our favourites this winter

MODERATE

DIFFICULT

4 MILES

5 MILES

2 HOURS

3 HOURS

njoy the charming sights of Edenbridge as you take this three-mile walk that goes through multiple fields and Broxham Wood as well as passing the historic site of Broxham Manor before bringing you back to Malpret Hill.

Begin your walk at the Swan Lane footpath and follow the signpost along the concrete path past the Malpret Hill Allotments. Go through some of Edenbridge’s lovely farm fields and continue past the farm buildings and you will find a metal gate ahead of you. Walk through another gate immediately afterwards. Here you will find an array of fields which you will cross.

Eventually you will reach a road: be careful here as you have to head up the road for 30 metres and then turn right on the

footpath just past the Coakham Lodge Farm. Immediately after passing the bungalow stile on your left, head for the next stile at the bottom right of the field.

You will eventually pass through a field which contains a herd of deer.

You will come across the restored moat which marks the site of the Broxham Manor in the 13th century. After passing this historic moat, you are nearly at the end. You will eventually meet the point where you first started before the first stile.

Retrace your steps back from here to Malpret Hill.

n For more information and exact guidance on this walk,

go to www.kent.gov.uk/explorekent

26 vine December 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

njoy a challenging yet peaceful five-mile walk along the river through the picturesque villages of Otford and Shoreham.

The walk begins in the charming Otford village right by what was once the central water supply but is now a listed duck pond which is surrounded by the local shops and pubs.

Leaving the village behind you, follow the lane to join the Darent Valley Path alongside the banks of the river. The path will take you across the local golf course and cricket field, taking you towards the centre of Shoreham.

Passing the churchyard of St Peter and St Paul, you will follow your path under the railway bridge and begin walking up the hillside towards a patch of woodland. From there, turn left towards the road and see some fantastic views of the valley through the clearing of trees.

You’ll then carry on through various fields and come across the view of the Memorial

Cross carved into the hillside at Shoreham. Coming out of the woodland, you’ll join an ancient track way where you can pause and take in beautiful views down to the village of Otford and the Greensand ridge of Sevenoaks.

Pass through the gate and turn into a woodland filled with nodules of flint and lined with crab apple trees. Turn right along the road and you’ll be brought out into a traditional hamlet.

From here, bear right again to join the famous North Downs Way National Trail, a 153-mile route from Farnham in Surrey to Dover in Kent.

The final stretch of trail will take you across the field and back to the charming Otford Village where you can find much in the way of hospitality and rest.

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ASK THE BETTER

BODY SHOP Chris Wharton of the Better Body Shop answers your festive health questions Q: Every Christmas I end up piling on the pounds. I have worked hard this year and am worried about weight gain over the festive period. Do you have any tips to keep the weight off?

Paul G, Sevenoaks A: Christmas doesn’t have to mean falling of the exercise bandwagon and gorging on everything that’s put in front of you. For most of you, the Christmas period provides a much needed break from the stresses and time constraints of work and the school run.

Given that one of the biggest barriers to exercise is a lack of time, a break from the usual routine can provide the ideal opportunity to increase physical activity. Try sticking to the following guidelines: 1. Catch up on your sleep A lack of sleep during your busy working week has been show to increase levels of the hormone Ghrelin (responsible for increasing appetite) and a decrease in the hormone Leptin (responsible for supressing appetite). Thus, sleep deprivation is likely to likely lead to weight gain and a slower metabolism.

Aim for at least 7-8 hours a night.

2. Exercise first thing

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THE CLEVER DRESSER BOUTIQUE

CleverDresserBoutiqueWT142.indd 1

12/11/2013 16:31

Although they provide a break in routine, the holidays are typically packed full of family outings, Christmas shopping and long lunches, meaning evening visits to the gym are often vetoed. Aim for an early morning visit to the gym for some weight training to boost your resting metabolic rate for the rest of the day.

3. Tuck into more turkey Don’t just save this bird for the big day. Turkey is an excellent source of lean protein. It is low

in fat and a rich source of iron, zinc, potassium, and vitamin B6. It also contains Selenium, known to protect against cancer free radicals in your body and promote a healthy immune system, to help fend off any Xmas colds! Combine this superfood with a range of colourful vegetables (including your sprouts), and you are on to a winner!

4. Buy gifts that need roadtesting If you are anything like me you will not have even started buying presents yet. Why not buy gifts to get the whole family active. Push bikes, scooters, boxing gloves, home exercise DVDs and even Wii Fit can help keep the whole mob off of the couch.

5. Get walking Aim to walk for at least 30 minutes every day. Getting outside not only increases your vitamin D levels, it will also boost your mood, raise your metabolism and stop you snacking on leftovers in the house.

I know I’m starting to sound a bit Scrooge-like with all of these rules, but remember they are only suggestions. Just remember how it feels to get to 1st January with a shocking hangover, an empty box of Quality Street and five extra pounds of body fat, and ask yourself “is it worth it?”

If the answer is yes, then crack on. If you would rather start the year in great shape, feeling rested and full of energy, then use the Christmas holidays to do something positive with the five tips above.

Merry Christmas from all at team BBS! Chris

n To get yourself in shape in over the holidays call us today on 01732 451979 for a free Christmas fat loss plan. For more information please visit www.betterbodyshop.co.uk

vinedigital.co.uk December 2013 vine 27

VINE DINING

TOP PICK Delicious all-butter fruit cake covered in marzipan and soft icing Collection Ultimate Enchanted Forest Cake

TIPS FOR THE PERFECT TURKEY 1) Unwrap the turkey the day before you roast it and leave it in the fridge uncovered.

2) A lot of people at Christmas? Consider getting two smaller turkeys rather than one big turkey. Smaller turkeys cook more evenly.

3) Instead of throwing out the juices of the turkey after it's finished cooking, reduce the juices in a saucepan adding a little white wine and some corn flour.

£20.00 from Marks & Spencer

SNOWMAN BISCUIT RECIPE INGREDIENTS n 200g self-raising flour n 100g caster sugar n 100g butter, plus extra for greasing n 1 large free-range egg, lightly beaten n 1 tsp vanilla extract For the decorations:

n White and blue fondant icing n White and black writing icing n Sprinkles n 48 small chocolate balls

METHOD 1) Pre heat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4.

2) Mix the flour and sugar together in a bowl, then rub in the butter with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.

FESTIVE CHOCOLATE BUNDLES Cadbury's Roses Tin £5 Tesco Treat yourself or someone you love this Christmas with these individually wrapped chocolates. There are both everybody’s classical favourites, as well as new editions contained in this delightful tin.

Chocolate Advent Calendar Bundle £25 Thorntons Enjoy counting down to Christmas with the whole family this Christmas with this Advent calendar bundle. There are four different styles, one for each member of the family!

Hotel Chocolat Assorted Essential Christmas Chocolate Selection £42 John Lewis The ultimate treat for any true chocolate lover. This assortment of milk, dark and white chocolate is the perfect ending to your Christmas dinner this year.

3) Add the egg and vanilla essence and mix to form a soft dough.

4) Roll out onto a well-floured work surface and cut into rounds. Place on greased baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

5) Cool on a wire rack. When completely cool decorate.

6) Roll out the white fondant icing and cut out circles the same size as the biscuits, brush the backs of the circles with a little cooled boiled water and stick them to the biscuits, smoothing down the icing as you stick it on.

7) Roll out the blue icing and cut out more circles, then cut these in half and using a little more water and stick on top of the white icing for the hats.

8) Brush the hats with water in places where you want the sprinkles to stick and then sprinkle!

9) Pipe decorations on the hat with the white writing icing, then pipe a small blob for the hat bobble and another for the nose – stick on the chocolate balls.

Pipe black eyes and mouth then leave to set.

Recipe courtesy of BBC Food Recipes

Welcome to The Carpenters Arms, a hidden gem on the outskirts of Tonbridge. Surrounded by the stunning Kentish countryside; the old fruit pickers inn offers a relaxing and friendly atmosphere.

Why not escape the hustle and bustle of Christmas - enjoy a glass of mulled wine or a frothy hot chocolate by our glorious open fires.

Serving home-cooked food all day everyday, join us for family lunches, intimate dinners or celebrations with friends.

For those away from home, or simply in need of a getaway, stay the night in one of our nine en-suite rooms, with beautiful dĂŠcor, rural views and a relaxed atmosphere.

Feeling refreshed, start your day in the best way with a locally sourced and freshly prepared Carpenters breakfast, served all week until 11am.

VINE DINING

STOCKING ALL YOU NEED FOR CHRISTMAS

From Appledore Turkeys to locally sourced goose and venison, we can supply all of your Christmas meat requirements as well as much more

Open Tuesday through to Friday 9am - 4pm & Saturday 9am - 3pm

Christmas Menu Available For New Years Eve please see www.thewhiterockinn.co.uk

5 mins from Sevenoaks town/just off A25 Free Farmyard Parking

CHART FARM SHOP

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Now Taking Christmas Orders

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The CoCk Inn

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December Christmas fayre menu

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1 course £10.95 / 2 courses £14.95 / 3 courses £17.95

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Classic Prawn cocktail served with wholemeal bread and butter.

Ham hock terrine served with Melba toast and Christmas chutney.

Puff pastry ratatouille tartlet.

Mains Traditional Roast turkey Dinner served with all the trimmings and a sausage meat, apricot and chestnut stuffing and a red wine jus.

Nut loaf served with a sage and onion stuffing and a white wine jus (Vegetarian).

Venison steak served with a spring onion mash, braised red cabbage and a ginger, port and cranberry sauce.

Fusilli with a wild mushroom sauce and crisp green salad (Vegetarian).

Pan fried Sea bass fillet with a herb crust and served with Chargrilled Mediterranean vegetables and a lemon and caper sauce.

Desserts Traditional Christmas pudding served with brandy cream.

Cinnamon poached pear served with chocolate sauce and vanilla ice cream.

Winter fruit crumble served with custard, cream or ice cream.

Ice cream selection.

Complimentary coffee and mince pies.

Merry Christmas from Tina, family & staff !

30 vine December 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

01959 533171

Shoreham Lane, Halstead, Kent TN14 7DD

Sunday lunches From 12 noon - 6pm the - cock - inn . co . uk

Decorate Naturally From Rob Ryan, this Bells Vase is a classic addition to any home and will last long beyond this year’s Christmas season. Put in some natural festive decoration to really get into the Christmas spirit, and have something which will have a place in your home for years to come. n Rob Ryan Bells Vase £36.99 from Lady Butterworth’s

Christopher Pfeiffer takes a look at the essential home accessories to really get you into the spirit this Christmas

Merry Placements Set your Christmas table with this set of four Red Wilton Corkback Placemats. This will bring a traditional feeling to the table and add to the ambience of your evening. Combine this with other offerings found at Laura Ashley, and really make Christmas come alive this year. n Christmas Set of 4 Red Wilton Corkback Placemats £15.00 from Laura Ashley

Festive Teatime A fun little piece by Dartington Crystal (Torrington) Ltd and available on amazon.co.uk is a suitable way to serve tea this Christmas and add a festive cheer to your teatime on those cold Christmas days. It makes itself a worthwhile addition to your tea set and can be brought out every Christmas season to add to your festive ambience.

Painted with the images of Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman. n John Beswick The Snowman Tea For One Teapot and Cup £24.97 from amazon.co.uk

Keep Warm in Style Keep your sofa or bed in style with this brilliant check throw from Joules. Made of pure wool, it will keep you warm and comfortable. Available in an array of colours allowing you to match any style that you decorate your house with, add some warmth into your home this Christmas. n Brilliant Check Large Throws £85.00 from Joules

Tradition of Traditions The essential and obvious ornament for Christmas, the Berry & Pinecone Christmas Tree is seven feet tall and forms the iconic interior trend that represents the idea of Christmas itself.

The tree comes partially decorated with rustic pinecones and red berries which will lend themselves to your own decorative styles. Easy to put up, this tree will be eye-catching and a great addition to your home. n Berry & Pinecone Christmas Tree (Green, 7ft) £145.00 from John Lewis

Warm Lights Here we have something that will really make your evenings feel a little warmer when things are crisp. The Christmas Spruce Ring Red Candle will fit nicely into your decorated living room and create a natural glow as well as being a very festive item to add to the mantelpiece. n Christmas Spruce Ring Red Candle £16.00 from Laura Ashley

Back to

THE FUTURE Vine looks into how Offset Architects transformed this 1930s house into an energy-efficient, modern family home, by using contemporary architecture as well as state of the art materials

T

he owners of this property in Orpington not only wanted to extend their existing 1930s property into a spacious family home, but to also use the latest technologies available to provide a very low heating and energy demand.

Although an already charming detached house, the owners wanted to transform this property into a spacious, openplanned, social space for the whole family. Offset’s vision was to cleverly construct a plan for a two-storey wrap-around extension, to transform this tired house into a sophisticated and modern family home. This was achieved by creating detailed construction drawings using building techniques well beyond current building regulation requirements. As well as creating this vast extension, the plans also approached Passivhaus EnerPHit standards, making the property quality approved. This was achieved by making considerable improvements to create thermal comfort, by meeting costeffective energy requirements and utilising renewable energy systems, such as installing solar PV. By building a two-storey rear extension with one storey side extensions, Offset managed to create a sleek appearance to the rear of the property as well as a creating a modern approach to the traditional appearance of the front, still tying the house in with the existing properties on the street. With such attention to detail, the designer, Paul Hagell, decided to incorporate the use of zinc standing seam roofs and powder-coated aluminium glazing systems. This was not only used as a form of insulation to enhance the energy-efficiency and reliability of the property, but is also a visual aesthetic to establish the charm and appearance, also tying in the colours of the roof and window frames. These specially selected materials also unify the modern appearance of the exterior and interior.

Inside the property, the owners are delighted with their spacious and modern living areas. The interior is cleverly designed to appear open planned, but still has a separation between the living space and kitchen and dining area. Across the back of the property, there are floor-to-ceiling doors and windows, which not only allow more natural light into the building, they also give the home a sensation of limitless space, as well as maximising the views of the garden.

n If you are planning on building a new property or just want to update your current home call 01732 452111 or visit www.offsetarchitects.co.uk for more information.

The open plan kitchen

Architect's rendering

HOME AND GARDEN

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A: Riverside House, River Lawn Road, Tonbridge, TN9 1EP

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vinedigital.co.uk December 2013 vine 33

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34 vine December 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

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n 06, 13, 20 Dec. Las Vegas Theme Night. Thistle Hotel, Brands Hatch. £45 including dinner, disco, casino & tribute act.

0871 376 9008 www.thistle.com

ARTS & CRAFTS n 01 Dec -07 Jan. Peruvian angel paintings exhibition & sale.

Soprano café & wine bar, Dorset St, Sevenoaks. In aid of Alzheimers Society. n 01-14 Dec. Kids' art, craft & design workshops. 10:00-12:30.

Village Hall, Dunton Green. 07894 584223 www.gocraftinbox.wix. com n 01-20 Dec. Rural Life in the Eden Valley exhibition. Eden Valley Museum, Church House, 72 High St, Edenbridge. Free. 01732 868102 www.evmt.org.uk n 01 Dec-03 May. Pills, Potions & Poisons exhibition. Wed & Fri 14:00-16:30, Thu & Sat 10:00-16:30. Eden Valley Museum, Church House, 72 High St, Edenbridge. Free. 01732 868102 www.evmt.org.uk n 01-22 Dec weekends. Garden of England Art Exhibition.

13:00-16:00. Quebec House, Westerham. Free. www. nationaltrust.org.uk n 01-24 Dec. Winter Wall Art Exhibition. 10:30-16:30. Penshurst Place & Gardens, Penshurst near Tonbridge. www.penshurstplace. com n 12 Dec. Talk on Medieval Monsters in Church Art. 20:00.

Walthamstow Hall School, Hollybush Lane, Sevenoaks.

Sevenoaks.

Decorative & Fine Arts Society 01732 461458.

DON’T MISS! ST MARY’S PLATT CHURCH CHRISTMAS CONCERT & CAROLS 14 December, tickets £12 from Sevenoaks Bookshop or Cantate Choir.

n 07 Dec. Nativity ballet.

Westerham church.

National Youth Ballet www. stmarysheritagetrust.org.uk

n For more information or

to book, call 01732 770570 or visit www.cantate-choir.info

CHRISTMAS n 01-23 Dec. Xmas Gift Shop.

10:30-16:30. Penshurst Place & Gardens, Penshurst near Tonbridge. 01892 870307 www. penshurstplace.com n 04, 11, 18 Dec. Late Night Xmas shopping. 16:30-20:00.

Penshurst Place & Gardens. 01892 870307 www.penshurstplace.com n 06 Dec. Crash into Xmas concert. 19:30. Pamoja Hall, Space Performing Arts Centre, Sevenoaks School, Tonbridge Rd, Sevenoaks. Tickets £7. 01732 467765 www.sevenoaksschool. org/whats-on n 07 Dec. Xmas Concert & Carols. 19:30. Methodist Church, The Drive, Sevenoaks. Tickets from Sevenoaks Bookshop.

Darent Valley Choir www. darentvalleychoir.com n 08 Dec. Festival of Xmas Trees Advent Carol Service. 12:0018:30. Westerham church.

Free. 07885 301590. www. visitwesterham.org.uk n 08 Dec. Light up a Life service. 17:30. United Reformed Church, St Johns Rd, Sevenoaks. In aid of Hospice in the Weald

n 08 Dec. Jazz Carol Concert.

19:30. Doors open 19:00. St Margarets Church, Halstead.

Tickets from Hancocks Village Store. n 12 Dec. Carol concert & sale of goods. 14:00. United Reformed Chuch, St Johns Rd, Sevenoaks. In aid of MIND n 13-14 Dec. Celebration of Xmas concert. 19:30. St Edith Hall, Kemsing. Adults £8, OAPs £6, children £4 in aid of Bradbourne Disabled Riding Centre. 01959 532752 www.kemsingsingers.com n 14 Dec. Xmas Concert & Carols. 19:30. St Mary's Platt church. Tickets £12 from Sevenoaks Bookshop or Cantate Choir 01732 770570 www. cantate-choir.info n 14-15 Dec. Sing While You Shop carol singing. Sainsburys, Otford Rd, Bat & Ball n 14-15 Dec. Xmas Trees Festival. Sat 10:00-16:00, Sun 12:00-16:00. St Marys Church, Riverhead. Free. 01732 453768 n 26 Dec. Boxing Day Trek.

11:00. Ightham Mote near Ivy Hatch. £21.50 including breakfast.

01732 810378 www.nationaltrust. org.uk/ighthammote n 26 Dec. Boxing Day Lunch with Live Music & Hog Roast.

Castle Hotel, High St, Eynsford. £19.95. 01322 633917 www. castlehotelkent.com

ENTERTAINMENT n 05, 12, 19 Dec. Xmas Party. Raj Bari Indian restaurant, 6 Tubs Hill Parade, London Rd, Sevenoaks.

01732 743315 www.rajbari.co.uk n 05, 21 Dec. 60s Soul & Motown Night. Best Western Donnington Manor Hotel, London Rd, Dunton Green. £24.95-29.95. 01732 468510 www.donningtonmanor.com n 06 Dec. Abba tribute night.

Banana Leaf Indian restaurant, 47 Bethel Rd, Sevenoaks. 01732 465846 www.bananaleafcuisine. com

36 vine December 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

n 06, 14 Dec. Mickey Blue Eyes tribute night. Hadlow Bar & Grill, Ashes Lane, Hadlow near Tonbridge. £32. 01732 852365 www.hadlowbarandgrill.co.uk

n 07 Dec. Concert. 19:30. St Nicholas Church, Sevenoaks.

Adults £10, children £5 in aid of Cancer Research. Kemsing Singers 01732 761606 n 07 Dec. Neil Diamond tribute night. Hadlow Bar & Grill, Ashes Lane, Hadlow near Tonbridge. £32. 01732 852365 www. hadlowbarandgrill.co.uk n 07, 14 Dec. Party Night. Best Western Donnington Manor Hotel, London Rd, Dunton Green. £29.95. 01732 468510 www. donningtonmanor.com n 08 Dec. Sevenoaks Young Musicians. 15:00. Ship Theatre, Walthamstow Hall School, Hollybush Lane, Sevenoaks. 01732 451581 www.sevenoaksmusicclub. org.uk n 10 Dec. New Orleans jazz afternoon. 14:00-16:00. Cock pub, Shoreham Lane, Halstead.

Free. 01959 533171 n 11 Dec. Dixieland Jazz. 20:0022:30. Woodman pub, Goathurst Common near Ide Hill. Free.

01732 75029

London Rd, Dunton Green. £29.95. 01732 468510 www. donningtonmanor.com n 14 Dec. Xmas Carol by Charles Dickens. 19:30. Doors open 19:00. St Peter & St Paul Church, Ash. £5. 01474 873414 n 19 Dec. 70s Car Wash Night.

Best Western Donnington Manor Hotel, London Rd, Dunton Green. £24.95. 01732 468510 www. donningtonmanor.com n 20 Dec. George Michael tribute night. Banana Leaf Indian restaurant, 47 Bethel Rd, Sevenoaks. 01732 465846 www. bananaleafcuisine.com n 20 Dec. Lionel Richie tribute night. Hadlow Bar & Grill, Ashes Lane, Hadlow near Tonbridge. £35. 01732 852365 www. hadlowbarandgrill.co.uk n 21 Dec. Soul & Motown tribute night. Hadlow Bar & Grill, Ashes Lane, Hadlow near Tonbridge. £35. 01732 852365 www.hadlowbarandgrill.co.uk n 22 Dec. Robbie Williams tribute night. Hadlow Bar & Grill, Ashes Lane, Hadlow near Tonbridge. £35. 01732 852365 www.hadlowbarandgrill.co.uk

LIFESTYLE AND WELLBEING n 11 Dec. 6-mile walk around Lullingstone Country Park. 09:30.

Meet Station Rd, Shoreham.

Free. Sevenoaks Ramblers 01959 928354, 07890 001704 www. kentramblers.org.uk n 15 Dec. 5-mile walk around Powder Mills. 10:00. Meet Village

DON’T MISS! THE CHRISTMAS FARMERS’ MARKET 7 December, in Penshurst Place & Gardens, Penshurst near Tonbridge. n For more information, call

01892 870307 or visit www.penshurstplace.com n 12, 20 Dec. 80s School Disco Night. Best Western Donnington Manor Hotel, London Rd, Dunton Green. £24.95-29.95. 01732 468510 www.donningtonmanor. com n 12 Dec. Bob Marley tribute night. Banana Leaf Indian restaurant, 47 Bethel Rd, Sevenoaks. 01732 465846 www. bananaleafcuisine.com n 12 Dec. Frank Sinatra party night. American Diner, London Rd, Polhill. £24.95 including dinner.

01959 535890 www.7hoteldiner. co.uk n 13 Dec. Sounds of the Decades. Best Western Donnington Manor Hotel,

Green, Leigh. Free. Sevenoaks Ramblers 01732 884712 www. kentramblers.org.uk n 18 Dec. 5 1/2-mile walk around Penshurst. 10:00. Meet Chiddingstone Village. Free.

Sevenoaks Ramblers 01342 850827, 07860 472445 www. kentramblers.org.uk n 18 Dec. 9-mile walk around Edenbridge. 10:00. Meet Marsh Green church. Free. Sevenoaks Ramblers 01732 463039, 07941 162422 www.kentramblers.org.uk n 22 Dec. 10-mile walk around Knole Park. 09:45. Meet Buckhurst 2 car park, Suffolk Way, Sevenoaks. Free. Sevenoaks Ramblers 01732 761905, 07787

DECEMBER EVENTS AT THE ASSEMBLY HALL THEATRE 531808 www.kentramblers.org.uk n 22 Dec. 5 1/2-mile walk around Otford. 10:00. Meet Otford village car park. Tonbridge Ramblers 07886 105990 n 29 Dec. 5 1/2-mile walk around Goathurst Common.

10:00. Meet Village Hall car park, Ide Hill. Free. Sevenoaks Ramblers 01732 700407 www. kentramblers.org.uk n 01 Jan. 10:00. 5 1/2-mile walk around Fairlawne. Meet Shipbourne Common. Free.

Sevenoaks Ramblers 01732 700407 www.kentramblers.org.uk

Assembly Hall Theatre • Crescent Road • Tunbridge Wells • Kent TN1 2LU Ticket office: 01892 530613/532072 www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

A magical giant of a pantomime! from Hi-5

LUKE ROBERTS

Martin Dodd for UK Productions proudly presents

KATHY BARNES from HOLLYOAKS

SARAH~JANE BUCKLEY as THE FAIRY OF THE FOREST

as JACK

n 01 Jan. 11:00. New Year’s Day Trek. Ightham Mote near Ivy Hatch. £21.50 including breakfast.

01732 810378 www.nationaltrust. org.uk/ighthammote

FOOD AND DRINK n 01-23 Dec. 12:00-14:00. Xmas Lunch. Ightham Mote near Ivy Hatch. £22.95-25.95. 01732 810378 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ ighthammote n 07 Dec. 09:30-12:00. Xmas Farmers' Market. Penshurst Place & Gardens, Penshurst near Tonbridge. 01892 870307 www. penshurstplace.com n 14 Dec. 10:00-15:30. Kentish Food Fair. Plaza Suite, Stag Community Arts Centre, London Rd, Sevenoaks. 01732 450175 www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk n 25 Dec. 12:00. Xmas Day Lunch. Cinnamon Square restaurant, Rings Hill, Hildenborough. 01732 832944 www.thecinnamonsquare.co.uk

GRANTLY BUDGEN from WATERLOO ROAD

PHILIP MARTIN BROWN as FLESHCREEP

n 25 Dec. Xmas Day Lunch.

Hollybush Day Centre, Hollybush Close, Sevenoaks.

Age UK 01732 454108 www. ageuksevenoaksandtonbridge. org.uk n 25 Dec. Xmas Day Lunch. Plough pub, Leigh Rd, Hildenborough. £55. 01732 832149 www.theploughatleigh. com n 25 Dec. Xmas Day Lunch.

Castle Hotel, High St, Eynsford. £64.95. 01322 633917 www. castlehotelkent.com n 25-26 Dec. Xmas Lunch.

Snail restaurant, Stone St near Seal. 01732 810233 www. thesnailatstonestreet.co.uk

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Vikki Rimmer has the last word

YURI TAMBURRINI

D

38 vine December 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

ear Santa, good idea, that way I’d know what was Last week when I was coming next, or what I needed to do. standing in line at M&S I know I need to buy food, possibly a in the town doing my turkey, a pudding and lots and lots of annual trick of hanging booze. But what order do I do these on to my child’s things in. And what about stockings? middle finger as the weight from my Actually, scrap that, it’s been years dangerously over-stacked basket turned since I wore stockings - I just don’t have my knuckle white while simultaneously the time to fiddle with suspenders. balancing a box of crackers on my I’m sorry to trouble you with all of head and clutching two tins of Roses this, I know that you get a lot of letters in my armpit, the kindly lady next to at this time of year, but my daughter is me suggested I “needed help”. My sure that you can help, she’s also very daughter replied on my sure that you are going to behalf and said I could bring her a “penguin that “write and ask Father talks”.

I know I Christmas for some I’m finding it a bit need to as he always likes to tough at the moment. know what we want The days are shorter, buy food, for Christmas.” the nights are closing possibly a She tells me you have in, I have to make a lots of little helpers, do mouse costume for the turkey, a you think you could pop nativity, stick the pound one of those under the shop paper chains back pudding tree for me, and when together again, bake the and lots and Christmas cake (I know, I you’re down there, can you run the hoover lots of booze know, I should have done around because the nonit in July) man a stall at drop tree has dropped all the Christmas Fete and over the rug and the cat’s been picking help promote the Hunt The Sausage needles out of her paws for weeks now.

Calendar for the church.

I’m in a mess with the presents If you could find the time to write too. I bought some back in July, in back, email, text or drop me a message an attempt to ‘get organised’ but I on Facebook, I’d be really grateful. organised them away somewhere in a And please don’t forget to find the cupboard and can’t find them now. I’m talking penguin. Zoe is sure that there not sure but I think the doodle book are “loads in Iceland”. I think she that my daughter was scrawling over means where you live, and not where this morning was meant for Cousin I will be shopping for a turkey on Emily, who, by the way, is coming this Christmas Eve! weekend! My daughter is adamant Love and kisses (and apologies in that she “found it” under her bed. I’ve advance for the mouldy carrot and looked and there’s nothing else under bought mince pie), there (other than half a Peppa Pig and a rotten apple core), so the other Vikki x presents aren’t there, but I have no idea where they are.

Fancy being a guest Mumblings columnist?

I had a list somewhere too. My Mum Email hello@vinedigital.co.uk always told me that making lists was a

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