Vine Magazine | March 2013

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y o u r fav o u r i t e s e v e n o a k s m a g a z i n e w w w . v i n e d i g i ta l . c o . u k

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m a r c h 2013

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issue 6 9

Hopping

down in Kent

Vine reminisces about the golden age of hop picking in Sevenoaks

BUSINESS DETECTIVES

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SEVENOAKS

What’s inside?

March 2013

41

20

47 FEATURE

PROFESSIONAL

22 HOPPING DOWN IN KENT Vine takes a look at the process of hopping and examines the links the local area has with the industry

19 legal matters The team at Warners Solicitors offer regular expert advice on topics relevant to our everyday lives. This month, Stuart Price discusses chancel repair liability

EVERY MONTH 12 Monthly musts 14 YOUR VINE 44 family and kids 58 What’s on?

60 SEVENOAKS SHOWCASE 62 mumblings

HOME & GARDEN 50 GREAT VINE GADGETS This month Vine looks at a range of new gadgets from ecological staplers to state-of-the-art card readers designed to bring your home office up to date 54 INTERIOR TRENDS This month, we bring you a selection of restored and antique products to lend your home a touch of shabby chic

30 GREAT COUNTRY PUB SPECIAL Vine gets the low down on 4 of our best local establishments and discovers what makes each one stand out from the crowd 36 BUSINESS DETECTIVES From cake decoration classes to building services, Vine brings you a selection of Sevenoaks businesses who are experts in their respective fields

Cover shot: Three Generations of Otford Hop-pickers, 1912 © Ed Thompson

WIN THE NEW iPAD!

in association with the Chequers Inn, Heaverham SEE PAGE 32 FOR DETAILS

Welcome to Vine

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08 Headlines

M A G A Z IN E

WELLNESS 26 VINE STYLE Bring a touch of oldworld charm to your beauty regime with these vintage-inspired products, perfect for any boudoir 27 WALK OF THE MONTH This month we feature two special family walks – one pushchair friendly and the other circular – in the charming villages of Otford and Chevening to while away your Easter Sunday

Hello and welcome to the March edition of Vine.

We’ve had a pretty bitter February and with flurries of snow still falling from time to time, it is easy to forget that March, as well as being the month of Mother's Day and Easter, also signals the start of astronomical spring! We here at the Vine offices have high hopes for more springlike weather, and maybe a daffodil or two, by the end of the month, but in the meantime we have some great features for you to enjoy whilst Sevenoaks thaws.

There’s a strong local and traditional flavour to Vine this month – you can get the low down on the crème de la crème of local businesses in our bi-annual Business Detectives feature (page 36) as we snoop high and low for the best businesses in town.

Discover the joys of locally sourced meat as we chat to Seal’s independent butchers H W Coldbreath (page 20). Gain an insight into the rustic charm of Sevenoaks’ best pubs in our Great Country Pubs Special (page 30) and discover the traditional and much overlooked roots of Mothering Sunday. Keen local historians or anyone who likes a bit of local nostalgia can immerse themselves in the hop-picking culture of Otford, Greatness and Dunton Green with our look back on the joys of “Hopping Down in Kent” (page 22).

All this on top of the latest local news, Michael Fallon MP's monthly column and an interview with Sennockian sportsman and London Welsh star Daniel Caprice plus your guide to the month ahead in our what's on guide.

Until next time enjoy the start of spring!

Enjoy the issue!

vinedigital.co.uk March 2013 vine 7

HEADLINES

Photography project captures Kent Downs

Local fencer wins GB championship

Kent photographer Liz Garnett has started a project to catalogue the beauty of the Kent Downs with a range of digital, film, and mixed media pieces. Liz states that she has always found the Downs (which are an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) wonderfully peaceful, and is now keen to structure a local exhibition around them, with the help of a little public funding.

Liz has over 20 years' photography experience, having started her career as a travel photographer, and her photographs have been published worldwide, and exhibited in London and mainland Europe.

Kent College is celebrating this month following student Isabel Trunbull’s win at the Under-17 Great British Fencing Championships.

Isabel, 15, was awarded the Women’s Cadet (under-17) sabre title.

Speaking shortly after the final, Turnbull said: “This feels great and is totally unexpected after a tough international season.

The hard work has paid off and I’m lucky to have so many people helping me – especially my friends and my coach Phil Sheppard-Foster.”

Isabel was ranked 6th as she went into the competition - but beat the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 8th ranked girls to win the Championship.

This win follows a succession of wins for Isabel who has been fencing since she was 9 years old. Isabel’s coach Phil Sheppard-Foster is the top Youth Sabre Fencing Coach in the UK, coaching both Isabel and Laura Gladdish (who won the Junior Championship). Phil also coaches a lunchtime Beginners Fencing Club at Kent College.

n If you would like to help bring the beauty of the Kent Downs to life, funding for the project starts from as little £3.50 and you can follow it as it unfolds at kentdownsvalley.blogspot.co.uk

SYM Award returns for ‘13 The Stag Theatre will host a showcase of young musical talent on the 17 March, when 18 musicians are set to compete for title of Sevenoaks Young Musician of the Year. The prestigious competition sees performers aged 12 - 21 on a range of instruments from violin to marimba each giving a short recital in their bid for nearly £1000 worth of prizes.

Young virtuosos this year hail from all over the country. Home-grown talent will be present in the form of Sennockians Lou Warnett (piano)and Sophie Westbrooke (recorder), and sisters Matilda and Verity Lloyd (trumpet and marimba) from nearby Leigh.

The event is open to the public throughout the day, meaning that anyone can come and support just one or two individual performers, or enjoy a whole programme of astounding pieces played by the next generation of musical talent.

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

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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 EDITORIAL

Anna Savory editor@vinedigital.co.uk t: 01732 764508 Nicol Banin

n Tickets are £7.50 per person and under 16s go free, for more information visit www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk

SUB EDITOR

Amanda Hayden

VINE PUBLISHING LTD publishing DIRECTOR

Historic golfing at Hever Golf has been a at the heart of The Hever Castle Estate since the 1920s when Lord Astor installed his private 9 hole links course in the grounds where Members of Parliament and, it is thought, Royalty often enjoyed a few rounds. Today’s 27 Hole Championship course is set on the same land as Astor’s course and offers guests the chance to play golf on the stunning unspoiled historic Estate. For more information visit www.hever.co.uk or call the club on 01732 701004

Council funds new play area

Rencraft in finals of KKB Awards

Cllr Brian Ramsay has secured £3,000 for new play equipment for Woodland Avenue Recreation Ground. The equipment provides safe play for under eights and those with special needs, who are not currently provided for by the play area. Installations will include a climbing frame, slide, triple bay swing set, a rocker, a spinner and adventure trail.

Sevenoaks kitchen and bathroom manufacturers Rencraft have been nominated as finalists in the KKB Review Awards. John Stephens, the Company Director, states “This nomination reinforces the commitment that the team has. Rencraft prides itself on a high quality product and a high level of customer satisfaction.”

Owen Hunnam owen@vinedigital.co.uk t: 01732 764509 CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Charlie de Rusett charlie@vinedigital.co.uk t: 01732 764501 PA TO DIRECTORS

Emily Swift emily.swift@vinedigital.co.uk t: 01732 760823 Find us on Facebook and Twitter 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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vinedigital.co.uk March 2013 vine 9

HEADLINES

RBS chief Stephen Hester visits Premier Security Local security solutions firm Premier received a special visit last month from Stephen Hester – the head of The Royal Bank of Scotland. Hester chose Premier as an example of a successful firm that was forging ahead despite difficult economic times. With their newly refurbished show room and training facility Premier are a prime example of the sort of small and medium sized enterprises in which banks like RBS are being urged to invest. Hester enjoyed a tour of the Premier showrooms accompanied by Michael Fallon MP. Vincent Humphreys, managing director of Premier, said “The team enjoyed welcoming both Stephen Hester and Michael Fallon to our newly refurbished workplace.

We are privileged that Stephen and his team recognised Premier as a forward thinking enterprise and chose us as one of the few companies he wanted to meet as part of this initiative. We feel this is a reflection of Premier achieving a competitive edge in its marketplace through innovative investment and sheer hard work.”

Success for young entrepreneurs A group of enterprising students from Walthamstow Hall are celebrating following their successes in the Young Enterprise West Kent Trade Fair competition.

The girls' business 'Nova' designs and prints a range of cotton tote bags which will be stocked in Robert Dyas in Sevenoaks in the near future. Vine’s own Owen Hunnam recently met with the girls to talk about social media management, which was no doubt invaluable when, as part of the competition, the girls were asked to speak on the subject of “social media and how the internet has affected businesses”.

Sevenoaks Sings choir hits high note This week saw the launch of Sevenoaks Sings, a crossgenerational community choir for the local area. Over 130 singers packed the stage at Sevenoaks School’s Pamoja Hall to form a choir that truly reflected the Sevenoaks community. “We met for the first time on Monday and by the time the concert came around on Sunday we were like one enormous family!” says Emma Pears, Founder and Director of Sevenoaks Sings. All 130 singers, including children, were on stage the whole evening supporting one another and appreciating the performances of the other generations. There is now a huge demand for the next event from Emma & her team. For more information of Sevenoaks Sings visit www. sevenoakssings.com or email sevenoakssings@dependant.org

Kent College wows with ‘Evita’ muscial

Vincent Humphreys, Stephen Hester, Sarah Humphreys and Michael Fallon MP at Premier Security's refurbished showroom in Kemsing

Kent College’s drama department excelled themselves earlier this month with a schoolwide production of ‘Evita’, the hit musical originally created by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

The epic musical concentrates on the life of Eva Perón. The students dazzeled audiences with wonderful individual performances, ensemble pieces and beautiful stage craft. The entire production was scored by the school’s music department, giving it a professional finish.

Kent College is fast becoming renowned for it’s highly polished drama output. ‘Evita’ follows a string of previous hits with reviewers in agreement – Kent Colleges productions are above and beyond the average school play.

Local parental clinic launches new giveaway

007-themed night at Wildernesse

Cantate Choir’s new Spring concert

The Avenue Clinic – a prenatal clinic based in Sevenoaks is giving the public a chance to win a free 3D/4D scan of their baby. All expectant mothers have to do to be entered into the draw is head to the Avenue Clinic’s Facebook page and like them (www.facebook.com/ TheAvenueClinic) and follow them on Twitter (@ theavenueclinic).

Wildernesse Golf Club in Seal, Sevenoaks are to host a Bond-themed charity dinner-dance.

The event, which will take place on Saturday 24 April at the club, will consist of a three-course dinner, dancing, and a Bond-style casino with eight tables. Dress is an optional Bond tuxedo or dress, and tickets are £50 including pre-dinner drinks.

Sevenoaks-based choral group the Cantate Choir will return to Saint Nicholas’ Church on the 9th of March to perform their spring concert. This year this will be Handel’s glorious Oratorio Judas Maccabeus.

Accompaniment will be provided Sussex orchestra ‘Vivace!’

Tickets are £15. For more information call 01732 770570.

10 vine March 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

Accolade for hearing centre A state-of-the-art children’s hearing centre based at Sevenoaks Hospital was named as one of a few facilities in the country permitted to train specialist audiologists last month.

The service was endorsed by the British Academy of Audiologists. Pankaj Jindal, Team Leader for the centre, said “We are very proud to be one of the few departments in the UK to join this scheme.”

Sevenoaks tourism booming A survey carried out by Visit Kent has found that Sevenoaks’ tourist industry is still booming in spite of the recession.

The survey recorded 3.7 million tourist day trips to the area. Cllr Pat Boley said the figures were testament to the “fantastic mix of beautiful countryside and wonderful attractions” in Sevenoaks.

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The Old Timber Yard, London Road, Halstead, Kent, TN14 7DZ t. 01959 532553 w. chamberfurniture.co.uk Open: Mon-Fri: 09.00-17.30 Sat: 09.00-14.00

CHA M BEr fur n it ur e

March 2013

MONTHLY

MUSTS

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

MUST-VISIT

MUST-SEE

Widely acknowledged as Russia’s premiere Cossack dance troupe The Russian State Dance Ensemble have toured Europe extensively over the last year and their new tour comes to the Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells on 5 March. It promises to be an unforgettable experience; a night of legendary cossack dances performed by forty world class artists, all set to live orchestral accompaniment! What really makes the show special however is its stagecraft, complete with over 300 traditional Russian costumes and specially made titanium sabres that ensure sparks really do fly in the final dance of the night! Crack open the vodka. This is not one to miss! n To book call 01892 530613

Easter Sunday marks the opening day of the Shoreham Aircraft Museum’s new season and to celebrate they are welcoming back the ‘Bomber Boys’, a group of RAF veterans, for a signing event. Come along with any books or memorabilia you would like signed and any questions you have for the boys. Those booked to attend include Harry Irons DFC, a Lancaster and Halifax air gunner, Sam Brookes, a Lancaster wireless operator, and Sid Beaver AFC, DFM, a Lancaster pilot who flew Tempests and Meteors after the war. All money raised will be donated to the RAF Bomber Command Memorial maintenance fund. A wonderful cause and an event that promises to be genuinely interesting. n For more information call 01959 524416

MUST-READ Let’s Explore Diabetes With Owls is the most recent collection of essays and anecdotes from the inimitable American humourist David Sedaris. Less medical than its title suggests, but just as whimsical, the book contains all the usual tales from the writer's childhood in Raleigh, North Carolina, and also an insight into Sedaris’ life on this side of the pond; from his visits to a London taxidermist (in search of an owl for partner Hugh) to his one-man mission to clean the English countryside. Sedaris is, as always, sharp, sardonic and yet curiously life-affirming.

Having already achieved rock-star status in America he is set to take England by storm over the next year. n Let’s Explore Diabetes With Owls is released nation-wide on April 23, and available to pre-order now

MUST-LISTEN

MUST-TASTE If you are in need of a bit of decadence this Easter or are struggling to find the perfect Mothering Sunday indulgence you can’t do better than Hotel Chocolat’s Caramel Drinking Chocolate! Previously only available pre-mixed from venders in select branches of the shop it is now possible to buy this gorgeously sweet, caramel flavoured cocoa powder and mix up your own at home. A mellow blend of milk and dark chocolate with notes of sultry caramel and white chocolate love hearts sprinkled through the mix, this is good as hot chocolate gets! n Available from www.hotelchocolat.co.uk

Head down to the Assembly Hall Theatre on March 3 to see The Royal Tunbridge Wells Symphony Orchestra perform with special guest Jennifer Pike. A former BBC Young Musician of the Year, Pike is a highly accomplished violinist. She studied under David Takeno and read music at Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford and now takes first violin for a night of astounding Romantic pieces by Sibelius and Tchaikovsky. With tickets ranging from £11 to £20 (and with a special £1 rate for children and students) this is a wonderful opportunity to hear some first-rate classical music performed locally. Neil Thomson conducts. n For more information call 01892 530613

MUST-DO Head over to The Stag Theatre between Wednesday 10 and Saturday 13 of April to see the Sevenoaks Players' production of Chess – The Musical.

Set during the Cold War, this is a spectacular 80s musical full of intrigue, love and betrayal. Featuring wonderful music by the two men from ABBA combined with the clever and witty lyrics of the awardwinning Tim Rice, this is a show not to be missed.

Choreographed by Jessica McEwan and directed by Keith Neville, with Colin Palmer in charge of musical direction, the production is headed by a talented cast of singers and dancers including Anthony Eglinton, Bob Wilson, James Klech, Ian Bell, James Osborne, Laura Brand and Jo Phypers. It promises to be a night of wonderful entertainment. n Tickets from £15 with concessions available.

For more information contact The Stag Box office on 01732 450175 or visit www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk

12 Union Square Eridge Road The Pantiles Tunbridge Wells TN4 8HE Tel 01892 617462 Brighton 01273 841228

Reigate 01737 226450

DID YOU KNOW...

The page that’s all about you

Top tweets

Follow Vine on Twitter @VineMagazine

Our pick of the best local tweets this month

Once a deer in Knole park bit my little brother’s face, but nobody cared because his face wasn’t that attractive to begin with

Eighth oak spotted in #sevenoaks hiding behind the post office. Name change unlikely as council website is paid for

Feeling a bit sick... may have eaten too much chocolate... nah, only joking, I could never eat too much chocolate! #chocolatehigh

Katie Gray @ZiziFothSi

The Ben guy @NoHopeForSome

Reshma Dileep Field @TrinityCatResh

NEWS from

In the 18th century sailors on shore-leave for Easter would carry hot cross buns back on to their ships in the belief that they would prevent shipwrecks.

In the Philippines Easter is celebrated with an early morning street procession called Salubong.

Little girls are dressed as angels for the occasion and the procession ends with pealing bells and fireworks.

Readers’ Pets

the MP with Michael Fallon MP

This month I’m redoubling the Government’s efforts to get rid of the red tape. I’m announcing that Britain’s regulators, such as the Environment Agency, will have to consider, for the first time, how their actions harm growth.

Fundamentally, regulation acts to divert the scarce resources of business away from their productive uses towards unproductive compliance activities.

We’ve already taken important steps to deregulate. Action at home includes the introduction of the ground-breaking One-In, One-Out rule, under which any increase in the cost of regulation must be at least matched by reduction elsewhere.

Through our Red Tape Challenge – which invites businesses to tell us where action on red tape is most urgently required – we have committed to scrap or improve at least 3,000 regulations

that affect business, and we have already identified 1,400 to repeal or substantially overhaul.

Now it’s time to push this further.

The scale of state regulation is very large. We’ve found there are more than 55 non-economic regulators with a combined budget of approximately £4 billion and 55,000 staff. We will be exploring how to place a legal duty on all those non-economic regulators to have regard to growth in their decisionmaking in a way that allows us to achieve both prosperity and protection.

Businesses are often sceptical when Government say they want to cut redtape. I hope this measure shows that we plan to not just some of the rules, but the whole approach regulators take to regulation. n Have a question for the MP? Please send to editor@vinedigital.co.uk

14 vine March 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

Pet name: Barney Owner: Ashley Sim Likes: Walks, Cuddles, Cheddar, Bitches DISLikes: Fireworks, Cars, Hoovers and Dishwashers Favourite Treat: Cheddar, Meat A word from the owner: Barney is a rescue dog, who was the worst trained dog in the world.

Two years later and he is slightly less crazy and settling in nicely. n Got a print-worthy pet then email us at editor@vinedigital.co.uk

SEVENOAKS STAR According to Old English lore a child born on Good Friday and baptised on Easter Sunday will have the gift of healing.

French tradition states that chocolate eggs, rather than being delivered by the Easter Bunny, appear magically when the local church bells ring on Easter morning.

In medieval times a festival of egg-throwing was held in church, during which the priest would throw a hard-boiled egg to one of the choir boys.

It was then tossed from one choir boy to the next and whoever held the egg when the clock struck 12 was the winner and retained the egg.

Karyn Palmer A mother of three from Sevenoaks is planning to run the 2013 London Marathon next month, less than a year after having her third child! Karyn Palmer, 37, from Sevenoaks is training for the big day with a tough schedule of cross-training, gym workouts, and open-air runs through Knole Park (in all weather) in the hopes of being ready for the staggering 26 mile race through central London in April. On an average day Karyn totals an impressive 300 minutes a day of training, all on top of taking care of her young family!

Each year the Virgin London marathon attracts over 36 thousand runners; a mixture of professional athletes running to win and sponsored members of the public running to raise funds for worthy causes. Karyn will be raising money for Shooting Star CHASE, a London charity that provides hospice care for children and teenagers not expected to reach their nineteenth birthdays.

Karyn says that the cause is particularly meaningful for her; “a close friend of mine had a baby girl with heart problems and the charity helped them bring her home for the 8 days that she was alive [meaning] they could have her baptised at their local Church. I know this meant so much to them.”

The marathon will occur shortly after what would have been her second birthday, and will be run in memory of her. n Follow Karyn’s journey at mumtomarathon.blogspot.co.uk or to donate to her visit www.justgiving.com/Karyn-Palmer

60

second interview

Every month we interview a notable member of your community

Daniel Caprice Vine catches up with Rugby Union star Daniel Caprice and chats to him about the sporting world, London Welsh and how Sevenoaks got him started How did you get started in a career in Rugby? Is it always what you have wanted to do?

I started playing when I was 8 years old, a friend of mine had started and said I should

come along. I’d never heard of rugby and thought it was going to be American football!

From the age of 11 I’ve known it was what I wanted to do.

I’ve been very lucky in that rugby has offered me some great experiences. I was fortunate enough to be awarded the Findlay sixth form sport scholarship to Sevenoaks school.

From here I was offered my first professional contract with Saracens academy and that’s where it all started.

What is next for you in the coming months?

This has been my first year playing regular premiership rugby for London Welsh. We were recently promoted to top flight rugby and its something which all the team are relishing. In the next month or so it is critical that we perform to the best of our abilities to give us the best chance possible of securing our Aviva premiership spot for next season.

What is your long-term goal?

My goal has always been to be the best player I can be. I think it's important to try and reach your full potential in whatever task you apply yourself to.

What is it like playing for a team like London Welsh?

London Welsh has presented a different challenge to what I’ve encountered before.

We’re a small squad with far less resources than other teams in the Aviva premiership.

However, it's shown me that these things count for very little when the whistle blows to start the match. The winning team will usually be the side who are hungrier and prepared to push themselves that few extra inches.

If you weren’t a professional rugby player what do you think you’d be doing?

Growing up I’d always wanted to be a vet although that quickly got put on the back burner since I discovered sport. So maybe I would have pursued that.

PROFESSIONAL

The year got off to a successful start with the first Grapevine event of 2013, hosted at Cooper Sevenoaks. There was a wide and varied turnout of over 90 local businesses who came to mingle, swap business cards and be the first to view a brand new Mini Clubvan launched at the event

This month’s Grapevine will be held at the Bentley Showroom on Wednesday 20 March at 6pm.

Visit vinedigital.co.uk/grapevine to register for your free invite

@CooperMINI7Oaks @VineMagazine Thanks for your hospitality!

Russell Harper @harperphoto Well done Owen @VineMagazine & Mark @CooperMINI7Oaks for great #grapevine networking evening. Good 2 catchup with old mates & meet new ones Mark Keatley-Palmer @SycamoreDesign

@VineMagazine’s #Grapevine was a big success for Theodore Brown Property Management. Made 26 contacts, got 7 business leads & 2 meetings!

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Thanks to @VineMagazine for the excellent #grapevine networking last night at Cooper Sevenoaks Mini.

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Thank you to everyone from @VineMagazine, and those who attended the #grapevine event last night at the Dealership - great event!!

Interesting evening at @VineMagazine event at BMW Mini with @Chsnetworks Even won the bouquet - so happy Mrs S! #Grapevine Harley Stephens @harleyholeshot

Cooper Sevenoaks MINI @CooperMINI7Oaks

Thanks @ VineMagazine for organising #grapevine networking event.

Looking forward to more business card frenzy next month!

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Had a brilliant time at Grapevine tonight at Cooper Sevenoaks. Thanks @VineMagazine for organising Angela Davis @QessentialCake

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PROFESSiOnAL PROFESSIONAL

LegaL MATTERS

LEGAL MATTERS The team at Withers offer regular expert advice on topics relevant to The team at Warners Solicitors our everyday lives. This month, offer regular expert advice on Henryrelevant and Stuart talkeveryday topics to our about Stamp Duty lives.

This month, Stuart Price discusses chancel repair liability

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is available which will protect you and your property’s successors in title from CRL. This is certainly a wise move when buying property identified to be in an area of risk. Indeed, if you are buying with the aid of a mortgage many lendersproperty will demand by holding in their insurance be inThere place.isIfhowever a CRL ais own name. registered, downsideinsurance to taking will this become route, in significantly morethe expensive that it exposes owner toand UK more difficult tax to obtain. time inheritance chargesAtona death. when we are to be seeing Buyers of likely £2 million+ CRL registered a faster rate a properties nowatseem to face than before, simply, starkever choice.

As quite an individual why takethey the risk? owner risk an inheritance Willcharge 13 October 2013ofsee the tax and a loss privacy. end of the uncertainty and risk Continue with the company posed bythough unregistered CRL? option and they will have Unfortunately not. Even after the to accept a higher rate of SDLT, cut-off date acharge CRL and can still be an annual a Capital registered against your property Gains Tax (CGT) charge. untilHowever, the date with it is next sold, which the right could of and course be many years. advice careful planning The importance of inexpensive much can be done to mitigate CRL insurance cannot then be the inheritance tax exposure overstated.

Your legal advisor and to preserve the privacy can you sobuyers. that you are of assist individual Simple not saddled with a potentially economics will mean that many crippling CRL. Religious or not, will prefer to buy properties in intheir theseown difficult times names andwho withcan some afford maintain quitetosimple steps,a grand the issues old church? can be managed. For those who continue to prefer companies, a number of reliefs from the were announced nnew For charges advice on all aspects of the law in December and the scope relating to buying or so selling property, for retaining those structures contact Warners Solicitors on 01732 has been significantly increased.

747900 or email marketing@warnersGiven the complexity that theseon solicitors.co.uk . Follow Warners new rules imposes on property Twitter @KentSolicitors ownership, the benefits of taking advice is clear. purchase their properties through a company. This is becoming Stuart Price now as individuals less attractive n For further information, please Trainee Solicitor can in fact sidestep the worst visit www.withersworldwide.com Tel: 01732 747912 Email: stuart.price@warners-solicitors.co.uk effects of the latest tax changes Professional Memberships

he issue of Groves chancel

By Christopher repairStuart, liability (CRL), and Henry whereby responsibility for partners in international repairing a nearby law firm Withers church is tied to the surrounding land leaving unsuspecting property owners out of pocket, received publicity in thenrecent caseBudget, of Aston Cantlow his 2012 George andOsborne others v.introduced Wallbank (2003). sweeping Here, the owners a farmofwere changes to the of taxation left with the obligation pay residential properties to worth nearly for repairs to more£200,000 than £2 million.

London the local roof.where The case and thechurch south east, the provoked changehas in the law so propertyamarket remained that as from October strong, were13always set 2013 to be a most CRLaffected will havebytothe be changes. registered with the Land Registry in Property prices in Sevenoaks order be effective againstover the havetocontinued to climb a last newquarter buyer. and the area remains Currently,toitprospective is extremelybuyers. attractive difficult to discover whether a However, these changes mean particular property is subject that people now have to think tomuch a liability it can exist moreascarefully about how without record on property title they purchase local property. documents.

Although CRL can Clarification on thea measures affect properties a to bemultiple implemented was in finally wide area, one owner alone canand published in December 2012 bethe pursued for thewill totalinclude: repair key changes cost.• An Specialist companies can increase in the Stamp carry out searches which will Duty Land Tax (SDLT) payable reveal whetherfrom the property is in on purchase 5% to 7%; a Parish identified to be at risk, • A higher rate of SDLT for but currently around 35% of corporate purchasers of 15%; Parishes carry this status.

•The An annual of between change charge in the law has 0.3% andParishes 0.7%; and prompted across the country to study records in • A 28% chargetheir to capital order register CRLbybefore gainstotax on a sale trusts the and cut-off date, thereby companies on gainsensuring accruing. they can enforce their rights Historically, a number of inbuyers the future.

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vinedigital.co.uk 21 vinedigital.co.ukFebruary March 2013 vine 19

Raising THE STEAKS

In light of recent national meat scandals it is now more important than ever for people to know where their food is coming from. The award-winning Coldbreath’s is a family-run butchers that has stood in Seal highstreet for over 35 years and is still going strong.

It offers customers an unparalleled opportunity to purchase quality meats from very local sources

Rob Martin from Coldbreath’s butchers on his 150-acre cattle farm in Ightham. The butcher has won a string of prestigious awards over the years

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VINE DINING

The History of Coldbreath's It was once the case that all rural communities would have a butchers shop at their heart supplying villagers with locally sourced produce, and indeed there have been butchers shops in Seal highstreet since records began in 1861. But where other towns and villages have lost their independent shops to highstreet suppliers over the years, Seal’s butchering traditions are still going strong.

In 1976 W H Coldbreath Family Butchers was opened by the Martin family. It has remained an independent business ever since. Originally founded

by Chris Martin, the role of Master Butcher has now fallen to his son Rob, who oversees all butchering and selects the local suppliers from which Coldbreath's wide range of premium quality meat and poultry is sourced.

Coldbreath's now provides meat for a huge variety of local resturants, schools and National Trust properties, the latter being famed for their exacting standards when it comes to sourcing local produce.

Keeping It Local Rob ensures that all of the meat sold at W H Coldbreath is as locally sourced as possible, with the vast majority of beef coming from Rob’s own herd at Ightham. The herd comprises Sussex cows and Aberdeen Angus bulls, and with many of the cows in calf there is set to be plenty of fresh beef throughout the summer.

All other meats sold at Coldbreath's are also from free-range farms within the West Kent area. Their prime cuts of lamb hail from Church Farm in Seal as well as Stanstead on Wrotham Hill and their venison is sourced straight from Knole. Rob personally visits each farm before they start trading to ensure that they are up to his exacting standards and the same level of reputability applies to the local abattoir that is used to slaughter the livestock. After slaughter all cuts are butchered by Rob and the team and hung at the shop itself meaning that Coldbreath's supplies fully traceable, local meats from pasture to plate.

great time to pop in for a seasonal lamb joint or cutlet.

Beef is available all year round and in a tremendous variety of cuts from sirloin to Jacob’s Ladder, all of it dry-aged to create an unbeatable flavour. Handmade beef burgers and sausages can also be bought all year round and are perfect for a summer barbecue.

Making the Most of Your Local Butchers Delicious seasonal meats and full traceability aren’t the only benefits of going local when it comes to butchers.

Over its years of serving the local community Coldbreaths has built up real connections with its clients and you can chat directly to Rob about exactly what you need from your piece of meat. Whether you are looking for the perfect cut of beef to wow your dinner party guests or for something that can be slowcooked with the bare minimum of fuss or attention, Rob and his team are only too happy to discuss requirements. You can even bring in the recipe you are using and have them select the best meat for your dish, and that degree of personal service is something which definitely can’t be said for supermarkets or other chain providers.

Suggested Recipe With Easter just around the corner Coldbreath suggests this twist on the classic rack of lamb Rack of Lamb Persillade Ingredients :

3 bone rack of lamb French trimmed

Parsley breadcrumbs (made by blending dried parsley and breadcrumbs until fine)

1 egg white

Dijon mustard

A Wide Range of Premium Meat

METHOD:

Coldbreath's offers an astounding range of meats throughout the year, and place a strong emphasis on providing meat to suit the season. In winter they stock a great variety of local game such as pheasant, venison and pigeon while the Easter period is a

Whisk the egg white until it holds its shape add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard.

Brush the rack with the egg mix leaving the bones clean.

Dip the coated parts of the lamb into the breadcrumb mix, tap the lamb gently to remove any excess crumbs.

Bake in a hot oven (200°C) 14 minutes for rare, 16 minutes for medium, 20 minutes for well done.

Rest for at least ten minutes before carving.

Can be served with almost any vegetable/potato combination

Opening hours Monday 7.30am - 1pm Tuesday 7.30am - 5pm Wednesday Closed Thursday 7.30am - 5pm

Friday Saturday Sunday

7.30am - 5pm 7.30am - 2pm Closed

n For more information visit www.hwcoldbreath.co.uk or call 01732 761040 vinedigital.co.uk March 2013 vine 21

Hopping

Down inKent With the stringing of poles, March signals the start of the hopping calendar. Vine meets local historian and childhood hop picker Philip Clucas as he reminisces about his boyhood in the fields at Greatness

Hopping Work Songs Work songs were widespread in the hop fields; they sprang from, and expressed, the strong sense of community amongst the hop-pickers...

God Bless the Merry Little Hop God bless the merry little hop, That brings us all good cheer, For without the merry little hop, We would never know strong beer,

K

ent is so strongly associated with the growing of hops that Oast Houses – the specially designed conical buildings in which hops are stored and prepared for sale – have become emblematic of the county. While only a few working hop fields survive today the last two centuries of Kentish agriculture has had the hop and hop picker at its heart, and nowhere is this more true than in Sevenoaks and its surrounding villages.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries thousands of acres of West Kent were devoted to growing hops in fields known as ‘hop gardens’ with up to 80,000 people

involved in the annual harvest across Kent. By the beginning of the 20th century many hundreds of Londoners were travelling from the East End every year to assist the locals with the hopping harvest in September. ‘Picking holidays’, as they were known, offered the London poor a chance to experience the ‘clean air’ of the countryside and the money earned from a month in the Kentish hop fields would pay for a new pair of shoes and suit of winter clothes. Brought down on special hopping trains women and children from the East End would be allocated a hopping hut on arrival. Up to ten people would live in the makeshift shelters sleeping on straw or hammocks.

Here’s praise indeed for the barley malt From which fine whiskies come And praise indeed for the sugar in the cane From which does come brown rum And praise indeed for the juniper With its berry black as sin For without the juniper tree We’d not know fiery gin. Hey! God bless the merry little hop, That brings us all good cheer, For without the merry little hop, We would never know strong beer, And so we raise our glasses high To admire that amber glow There’s not a brewer throughout the land Who’d not have us to know That the ale he brews is honest and true The finest and the best But without the merry little hop It would never pass the the test God bless the merry little hop, That brings us all good cheer, For without the merry little hop, We would never know strong beer.

A-hopping Down In Kent Now some say hopping’s lousy I don’t believe it’s true, We only go down hopping To pick a hop or two With a tee-I-ay, tee-I-ay, tee-I-ee-I-ay.

Now when I went a hopping, Hopping down in Kent, I saw old Mrs Riley, A-sweeping out her tent With a tee-I-ay, tee-I-ay, tee-I-ee-I-ay.

Now every Monday morning, Just at six o’clock, You’ll hear old hoppers calling: Get up and boil your pot. With a tee-I-ay, tee-I-ay, tee-I-ee-I-ay.

(Top) Three generations of Otford hopper pickers; (bottom) East End children would often come down to Kent for a working holiday in the hop fields; (left) Measurer and Tallywoman measure hops from the hopping bin | Photography © Ed Thompson

Now here comes our old measurer, With his long nose and chin, With his ten gallon basket, And don’t he pop ‘em in! With a tee-I-ay, tee-I-ay, tee-I-ee-I-ay.

Prior to 1939, London hop pickers were hopping families that had been coming met with some hostility and distrust from for generations because the women were Kentish locals though after the Blitz tremendously quick! Sometimes middlethey received a hero’s welcome class women would come down to pick each September. hops for charity. They used to wear white Hopping continued strongly lace gloves but the gloves didn’t last throughout the 40s and 50s though it long... and neither did the women. The began to wane in the 60s with the advent pollen from hops stains hands black, and of mechanised picking and a trend the scent when you have been picking among breweries to source their hops hops is lovely, really evocative, but you from mainland Europe. Vine magazine can’t eat anything with ‘hoppy-hands’ caught up with local historian and artist because it makes whatever you are Philip Clucas who recalled his childhood holding taste incredibly bitter. when hopping was still going strong in Children only had to work for half the fields around Greatness: the day – at least that was the case at “It was always a very matriarchal Greatness – and you would spend the world in the hop fields. There were very afternoons playing. We used to fashion few men – they worked of bows using rough hop twine, course – it was all mothers and try to catch newts in the and grandmothers, powerful stream at the bottom of the women from the East End. field. If any strangers came Sometimes men would come into the hop field we would Thousands of down at the weekends but brush their feet with a sprig acres of West during the working week, of hops for luck. We had a Kent were during the actual hopping, good little business going the women ruled the roost. with it - people would often devoted to There was always a great give you a ha’penny or a growing hops sense of community. By farthing for brushing their in fields known the time I was picking hops feet with the hops – if they as ‘hop gardens’ Londoners and locals were didn’t give you a clip round mixing and chatting and with up to 80,000 the ear. But the cardinal sin there was little divide, I think as a child was to deliberately people involved everybody was impressed by get in the bin or fall into in the annual what the Londoners endured it because that meant harvest across during the Blitz, and this you crushed the picked broke down barriers. Both hops – and because of the Kent local children and London measuring process crushed children would ‘extend’ their hops would earn you a lot school summer holiday into less. Women often tried to September to go picking fluff the hops up when they and it wouldn’t be questioned too closely. saw the measurer was coming round so Sometimes the role of tallyman would that the extra ‘volume’ would earn more. be taken by the a school teacher simply It is a real shame hopping has now because his class just wouldn’t be there. all but died out in Kent. There are still Most of the children were in the hop occasional fields – there is a hop field fields with their mums. at Shoreham and two at Horton Kirby You woke very early each day. If you but they don’t grow anywhere near the weren’t staying in the hopping huts you amount of hops they used to in the would leave home at half six for a long 50s and 60s. Now they tend to be sold day starting at seven. It was cold of a for decoration in restaurants or rustic morning at that time of year. September kitchens rather than for flavouring beer.

- that is when the weather is turning - so People still recall their days in the hop you would get these grey, damp mornings fields very fondly - I certainly do - and I with mist hanging low over the fields but know of London pickers who still journey by about ten o’clock the sun would burn down to this area in early September off the mist, and you would get a lovely to visit places like the scrubland fence sunny autumn’s day - even today that along the railway line near Otford station kind of weather is known as a ‘hopping where once cultivated hops now grow morning’. wild - because the scent is so evocative Women worked throughout the day they only have to crush a few hops in the fields – just stripping the bine, between their fingers to be transported taking off handfuls of hops as they back 50 years to a nostalgic childhood in worked along it – you could tell the the fields of Kent.”

(Top right) London hopper picker in outside her hopping hut; (top left) Measurer and Tally-woman measure hops from the hopping bin; (bottom right) Members of the Clucas family in the fields at Greatness; (bottom left) Hoppers enjoy tea in the fields at Maplescombe (near Farningham) in 1946

The Hopping Year March – Stringing is completed; wooden poles are erected in hop fields and a thick twine (‘choir’) is strung between each one to create a mesh for the hops to grow on.

April – Hops begin to put up shoots, by the end of the month small bines will have grown.

May – Workers train the shoots up the strings, winding them in a clockwise direction around the ‘choir’. Once two to three shoots are growing all additional shoots are removed in order to create a few strong hops rather than a wealth of weak ones.

June-August – The growing season. The crop is protected by farmers from disease and pets while it grows to it’s full height. © ed thompson

September – Harvest; the fully grown cones are picked by field-workers and dried in specially built Oast Houses.

Once dried and cooled they are compacted down into sacks or ‘pockets’ and taken either to local breweries or The London Hop Exchange at Borough Market.

© ed thompson

Hopping Jobs Stilt-walkers – It was the stilt-walker's job to string the ‘choir’ at the start of the hopping year readying the fields for the crop. This was done on long wooden stilts which allowed stilt-walkers to reach the top of the poles.

Oftentimes, as well as stringing the poles in March, the local stilt-walker would also oversee the Oast House drying process in September.

Twiddlers – Twiddlers were local women employed in March and April to turn three or four strong hop shoots around the ‘choir’ so that they grow clockwise up the twine. About thirty shoots would be produced but the majority were removed creating a few strong hop vines rather than many weak ones.

Pickers – Pickers or hoppers were field workers whose job it was to harvest the hops every September. Hoppers were usually women and children, and while London hop pickers were famous for travelling down to Kent for ‘hopping holidays’ they weren’t the only people to work in the fields; Kentish women and children also picked their local hops and passing gypsies would often join the harvest.

Hoppers would work in ‘gangs’ to strip hops from the vine and place them into a large hopping ‘bin’.

© ed thompson

© Barbara Benedict

Measurer – Once hopping bins were full it was the measurer’s job to transfer the hops from their bin to in an eight gallon bushel basket and transfer them to a large hessian sack or ‘pocket’ to be transported to The Oast House.

Tallyman – As the measurer transferred the hops into the pocket it was the tallyman’s job to count aloud how many eight gallon bushel baskets it took to empty each bin. This number would be directly proportional to how much the hoppers would be paid. Because of the tallyman’s sensitive position he had to be a respected member of the community trusted both by famers and the hoppers themselves. The role was often taken by the local school teacher.

vinedigital.co.uk March 2013 vine 25

Retro Beauty Buys Bring a touch of old-world charm to your beauty regime with these vintage-inspired products, perfect for any boudoir

Retro Gin And Tonic Bath Foam Need a fix after work? Forget the drinks cabinet and head straight to the bathroom where you can melt into a soothing gin and tonic bubble bath. Fun and quirky, this product offers all the enjoyment of a G & T – but with no after effects!

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26 vine March 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

WELLNESS

BUCKING NATIONAL TRENDS

THE SECRET OF QUALITY HOME-CARE Amidst sensational news reports about the quality of home-care in Britain, Vine talks to the clients of care agency TerraBlu about what makes their experience of home-care so positive, and to their workers about how they maintain such a high standard

T

he national news over the past month has been dominated by reports on the perceived failings of the home-care industry, with the BBC reporting in February that a quarter of home-care services are failing to meet “quality standards”. But what exactly constitutes quality home-care and how can it be maintained?

Two clients of the TerraBlu care agency spoke to Vine about where they feel quality lies. Mr South stated, “The real mark of TerraBlu is in the quality of its staff.

They tailor a programme to suit the patient. Other carers, they don’t always go into that detail.” While Mrs Eldridge stressed her carer’s bedside manner: “They are so friendly, which is a big thing, really, that’s important to everyone.” She added: “I do think they are good quality, I have been very, very happy with them."

TerraBlu carer Alison Entwhistle said that being a comparatively small and local agency gave them the edge: “It means we can establish continuity of care and build a really strong relationship with clients. It allows us to pick up on little things, things someone else wouldn’t usually notice, just because we know

the individual.” She added that, in her opinion, the secret to quality home-care was “treating people with respect, treating people as individuals and just listening.”

Mr Richard Gould, managing director of TerraBlu, stated that “great quality service comes from employing compassionate, reliable individuals who have a real aptitude for care”, and added that he felt recent reports underplayed “the good work of care-workers across the country” and missed a larger point: “The debate now is about who gets what for free, which doesn’t deal with the fundamental issue. Really the focus should be on the question of additional funding in a deeply under-funded sector.” n For more information visit www.terrablu.co.uk or call Richard Gould on 01892 529429

Book a 31/03/13 to recei

Walk of the month SHOREHAM & OTFORD FAMILY TRAIL A pushchair-friendly walk, perfect for Easter mornings out with the family, keeps little ones entertained and educated with The Shoreham Aircraft Museum and Otford Rec’s scale model of the solar system

B

egin along Shoreham main street, passing Church Street on the right until you come to The Shoreham Aircraft Museum on the left (feel free to pop in for a glimpse of local history it is open 10-5 every Sunday May-October).

Past the museum, continue down Filston Lane until you reach Filston Farm on the left. Pass left of a large barn and turn sharply right towards a silo. From here, turn left past some stables and into a small lane. Bear right on this lane until you come to Pluto, one of the markers of Otford’s scale model of the planets. Continue until you reach a T-junction, then turn left across a bridge and fields to rejoin the road. Turn left along Otford High Street, passing another planet, Uranus, on the left. Cross the road, until you see some public toilets on the left, then cross again and continue to the recreation ground. At

Look out for a gate on your left.

Head through the churchyard, and straight across the main road, over the bridge, and up the hill onto the High Street where you can end your walk with a little light shopping or drop into one of the local cafes.

the far side you will find the rest of the solar system model, which should definitely be viewed. Once you’ve finished, leave the recreation ground at the northwest corner and turn left. Carry on through a gate, through the golf course, and across a lane. You can skirt the edge of the cricket field onto Station Road, from which you should turn left, then take the footpath on your right.

EASTER SUNDAY WALK THE CHEVENING CIRCULAR WALK A great way to get out with the family. Starting in Chevening churchyard this walk is the perfect way to relax after the Easter service

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egin at the north side of Chevening church yard, following the path leading north along a secluded track bordered by hedges. You should cross a stile and find yourself in an open field, which you should skirt on the left hand edge. At the corner of the pasture, cross another stile and head up a bracingly steep path through shady woodland into another field.

Take a moment to admire the woody path and the open grassland around you, then skirt the field on the left-hand side as before. At this left corner, turn right along the top of the field and go through a kissing gate (couples may wish to live up to this name). Turn right again and walk through a spacious ride beautifully situated between two woods. At the end of the ride, bear right until you come to another kissing gate. Stop here and admire the breathtaking views of Sevenoaks to the left and Chevening to the right.

Go through the gate, keeping the wood on your left as you skirt the grassland. Head down the hill out of the woodland. You should cross a stile and follow the left-hand edge of a field to the road.

Here, follow the road very carefully as it’s easy to get lost. Halfway round the first bend, take the path on the right. Follow this path back to the churchyard you started from. n Find out more about this local walk and others at www.walkinginkent.co.uk

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ASK THE BETTER

BODY SHOP Answering your exercise dilemmas Q: My GP has recommended that I take Vitamin D supplements as he thinks I may be deficient.

What are your thoughts about Vitamin D supplements and their effects on fat loss? Jonathan D, Sevenoaks A: “Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most commonly unrecognised medical conditions,” says Michael F Holick, MD, PhD, a professor of medicine at Boston University Medical Center and author of The Vitamin D Solution.

“And that deficiency negatively affects every cell in your body – including your fat cells.”

Vitamin D supplementation may be important for optimal health and fat loss because most people (in the Northern Hemisphere at least) have suboptimal levels or are deficient in this nutrient. We can consume vitamin D through the diet and also convert cholesterol into vitamin D when getting full body exposure to sunlight. For most people in the UK it’s unlikely that dietary vitamin D intake is adequate and very unlikely that they are exposed to enough sunlight on a daily basis to be producing enough vitamin D. Here are some potential benefits to supplementing Vitamin D: • Several studies have shown that men & women with higher vitamin D levels have better fat loss with a calorie-restricted diet when compared to men and women who are deficient (Br. J. Nutr. 2008;100:269-72; Obesity 2008;16:1566-72).

• One study by Dr Shalamar Sibley et al of the University of Minnesota found that in a group of 20 women & 18 men that “vitamin D did in fact predict abdominal fat loss in particular, and both forms (of vitamin D) predicted subsequent fat mass

loss in abdominal subcutaneous compartments.” Essentially, vitamin D levels prior to dieting predicted how effective the diet would be on fat loss, particularly fat stored around the abdomen.

• If the above isn’t convincing enough, animal and human studies have shown that simply by supplementing vitamin D without any other intervention, you can gain lean muscle mass and reduce body fat. In one study by nutritionists from Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 72 middle-aged overweight women supplemented with 25 micrograms (1000 IU) of vitamin D per day for 12 weeks and on average lost 2.7 kg of fat and gained 1.8 kg of lean body mass.

• Other potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation include: improved bone health, improved blood sugar regulation, reduced insulin resistance, cancer prevention, asthma treatment, brain health, treatment for depression, improved immune function... the list goes on.

Before supplementing with vitamin D you should check your current levels with your doctor.

A value of 20ng/ml is considered low, while 21-80 is considered normal and more than100ng/ml is excessive.

The most common way to supplement vitamin D is by taking a large dose twice per week and seems to be more effective than taking small amounts every day.

We would recommend starting by trying 20, 000 IUs (eight of the small capsules) twice weekly. n If you have any questions about supplementation or require some more detailed nutritional advice please email me at info@betterbodyshop.co.uk

By Joe Birch MSc, Senior Exercise Specialist

vinedigital.co.uk March 2013 vine 29

Sponsored by The Chequers Inn, Heaverham The Great Country Pub is quintessentially English and has taken its place along with fish and chips and the red telephone box as an iconic symbol of the nation.

Knowing that Sevenoaks and its surrounding area plays host to some of the most beautiful and historic country pubs around, Vine gets the low down on our the best local pubs and discover what makes each one stand out from the crowd

The White Rock Inn UNDERRIVER

Contact Details: The White Rock Inn, Underriver, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 OSB 01732 833112 | www.thewhiterockinn.co.uk In a sentence: A beautiful, family-run pub with a stunning view! Set in the heart of the Kentish countryside

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he White Rock Inn is a beautiful country pub in the heart of rural Kent. Located a few miles south-east of Sevenoaks in the quiet hamlet town of Underriver, The White Rock is steeped in history.

The pub itself dates back to the early 19th century though it is thought that a building stood on the site for many hundreds of years prior to that point due to the location’s prominent position on village trading routes.

Nowadays few people are trading on the roads of Underriver but The White Rock still attracts a great deal of passing custom, as well as local regulars returning again and again to enjoy the traditional country pub

30 vine March 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

experience on offer. The interior of The White Rock is complete with period oak beams, cosy wood fires and warm lighting, all of which helps to create an intimate and traditional atmosphere. Also adding to the rustic charm of The White Rock is a menu filled with a huge variety of locally sourced and seasonal food. Landlord Frank Scott is a keen fisherman, meaning that diners can expect a great selection of fish dishes from fillets of sea bass to specially prepared Rye scallops.

An innovative pound-stretcher menu is also available so that customers can benefit from some really great deals, including a starter and a dessert for only £1 each when they buy a main for £11 (available Monday to Saturday lunchtimes and Monday to Friday evenings).

What makes The White Rock Inn truly special, however, is its large and beautifully kept gardens which really come into their own during the spring and summer months and include a fully operational pétanque pitch! Plenty of outdoor seating and beautiful views over the surrounding countryside means that customers can really relax and enjoy long, lazy evenings outside in the company of a pint of Doom Bar or White Rock Bitter.

“POP IN TO SEE THEIR GREAT POUND-STRETCHER MENU!”

COUNTRY PUB SPECIAL

The BULL HOTEL WROTHAM

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he Bull Hotel has acted as a public house and community hub for the villagers of Wrotham for over 600 years, opening for the first time in 1395 while Richard II was on the throne. Many reminders of The Bull’s 14th-century origins still survive today, from its restored oak beams to its Inglenook fireplace. The Bull’s strong links with modern history will also be of particular interest to local military aficionados. Situated close to the RAF base at Biggin Hill it became a popular meeting spot for fighter pilots during the Second World War. A tradition developed of sticking a postage stamp to the ceiling of The Bull whenever a German plane was shot down and remnants of these stamps can still be seen today. In the autumn of 1940 one particular pilot, Peter Brown, shot down an enemy aircraft and rather than attaching his customary stamp to the pub’s ceiling he bought the uninjured German pilot back to The Bull where he was held under guard. The two men exchanged names and life stories and drank together at the bar with both admitting that they were “sorry to have to be fighting one another”.

Rich and varied though The Bull’s history is, it’s not the only thing to attract

customers. They also offer a wide range of musical entertainment: on the last Wednesday of every month customers can enjoy traditional jazz standards as performed by The Bull’s seven-piece jazz band, or, if jazz isn’t to your scene, a singer/pianist ensemble and a guitarist also perform frequently. In terms of food The Bull’s restaurant has something to suit all tastes from an AA Rosette-winning à la carte menu to a wide range of more traditional pub fare. All food is made in house, locally sourced from farms in and around Sevenoaks, and can be washed down with a great variety of local ales or rare and interesting wines from a carefully selected wine list.

As well as a nostalgic bar and restaurant The Bull offers 11 newly renovated four-star rooms, each with its own unique atmosphere from boutique chic to rural retreat. Preserved and restored original features such as fireplaces and 14th-century stonework ensure that all rooms whatever their themes, are full of character! Prices start from £69 per night and prestigious hotel guide Alistair Sawday’s described the refurbishment as “a labour of love” adding that, in their opinion, The Bull Hotel is the “only place in North Kent worth staying in”.

Contact Details: The Bull Hotel, Bull Lane, Wrotham, Sevenoaks, TN15 7RF | 01732 789 800 | www.thebullhotel.com In a sentence – Stunning Wrotham pub and hotel with over 600 years of history behind it

CHEQUERS INN HEAVERHAM Contact Details: Chequers Inn, Watery Lane, Heaverham, Sevenoaks, TN15 6N 01732 763968 | www.chequersheaverham.com In a sentence: A beautiful traditional Heaverham pub with a fresh, innovative menu and wonderful plans for the summer

Coming Up The Chequers hosts a range of special nights for special occasions Mothering Sunday

Three courses and a special complimentary gift of chocolates for Mum for only £18.95

St George’s Day

A Cockney themed night with a special menu of East End favourites including winkles, pie and mash and jellied eels. A traditional Cockney knees-up!

Easter Egg Hunt

An easter egg hunt around The Chequers’ spacious gardens for children to enjoy

St Patrick’s Day

Traditional Irish music and a night of guiness and merriment

Father’s Day

A special three course meal to keep Dad as just happy as Mum. Also only £18.95

Live Music in The Barn

On the 23rd of March Jay Scott and The Find will perform in the Chequers beautiful Tudor Barn. A wonderful opportunity to enjoy original music as well as some acoustic blues standards. Completely free and not to be missed

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ested in an historic hamlet roughly half way between Wrotham and Kemsing, the Chequers Inn has been serving the local community since the days of Shakespeare.

Renowned for being the sort of place where locals gather for a hearty Sunday lunch and which ramblers stumble across for a refreshing pint, The Chequers Inn has been under the management of Dave Billinghurst for almost year and in that time has evolved into a gastronomic powerhouse and centre of fine dining. It is now at an exciting point in its ongoing development with a new head chef - Jonathan ‘Jonno’ Coomber and a new dining innovation; a menu of high class pub classics which changes on a weekly basis meaning that diners are never short of a wonderful variety of dishes to enjoy. The only thing on the menu that will stay constant is the wonderful Sunday lunches for which The Chequers is so renowned. Diners will still be able to enjoy a choice of at least three locally-sourced roast joints, and a range of veggie options every Sunday between 12 and 4.30.

The Chequers itself is the perfect place to enjoy high-quality food and its recent interior make-over has in no way disturbed the quintessential country pub atmosphere. Complete with original oak beams, wattled walls and roaring open fires it is still the local pub at the heart of village life that it always was. Customers can enjoy a range of traditional ales on tap at the bar and ramblers and their dogs are still very much welcome in the pub and garden. The latter of which is set to become a big attraction in the summer when customers will be able to enjoy warm evenings of al fresco dining and tournaments of the traditional game Bat and Trap on The Chequers lawns.

In addition to all this the restored Tudor barn that stands in the pubs grounds provides a beautiful and atmospheric venue for a wide range of local music events and over the past six months has played host to all manner of special occasions from christening parties to wedding receptions. It is available for hire should customers wish to throw their own bash in a unique and historic venue!

If you would like to pop in and sample the unrivaled atmosphere and charm of the Chequers or sample the new innovative menu it is open for business as usual; Tuesday - Saturday for lunch (12 - 2.30) and dinner (6 9.30) and of course every Sunday from 12 - 4.30.

Interview With The Chef Vine talks to The Chequers’ brand new head chef Jonno Coomber What is The Chequers’ new menu all about?

What makes the food at The Chequers special?

It is real, back to basics, traditional, hearty food - but with an highclass and fine-dining edge. We’ve really emphasised the old classics; pies; bangers and mash; stews and hotpots for this time of the year, but we’ve retained that fine dining element that the pub has become know for as well - we’ve still got an ever-changing variety of fish dishes and vegetarian options and of course all of it is home cooked and beautifully served. We are keeping it local as well, trying to source everything from as nearby as possible.

Variety! I am a strong believer in giving people a huge choice so that your menu never becomes stagnant or stale - perhaps people have particular favourites that they keep coming back for but they always have lots of options open to them if they want to try something new. Also I think we offer great value for money here - good prices, good portions and you get to enjoy it all in a pub with a wonderful atmosphere.

Would you say you are a flexible chef?

Yes, definitely, I am a pretty calm and collected chef too. Definitely an easy chef to approach and I am really flexible, actually, in terms of what people want. If you have any special dietary requirements or you want me to leave something out of the dish or add something in, I’m only too happy to tailor your meal to you - as long as you give me a bit of prior warning.

What is the best thing about working at The Chequers?

It is great just to cook a huge range of high quality food! But I also really love the atmosphere and the feel of a local country pub. I enjoying meeting the clientele, and getting to know all the local characters. The Chequers is really at the heart of village life, it’s a great place to come to enjoy your self and also to enjoy great food.

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15% off all food between Tuesday and Thursday valid until 01/06/2013 upon presenting this voucher

menu favorites A small sample of what The Chequers has to offer this week Starters

Kids At The Chequers It’s not just the regular menu that is getting a make-over at The Chequers - kids can also enjoy a whole new range of mains, including a children’s roast dinner every Sunday. Jonno will also throw in a free drink and ice-cream for desert for the bargain price of £7.50.

As of the summer the Chequers Inn will also have a new addition to their garden for kids to enjoy; an exciting adventure playground! The play area will certainly keep the children entertained whilst parents can soak up the sun with a drink or two in gorgeous, leafy surroundings.

Potted crab with crusty bread Deep fried brie with cranberry sauce Smoked trout with a gooseberry dressing

Mains Beer battered cod served with chips, peas, tartar sauce and a lemon wedge Cajun dusted seabass fillet with mango salsa, new potatoes and mixed salad Slow roast pork belly with a cider and ginger sauce, mustard mash and fresh vegetables

Desserts Bread and butter pudding with cream Baked chocolate tart served with raspberry coulis and vanilla ice cream Cointreau brulee To view all of our up to date menus please visit the website: www.chequersheaverham.com

Contact Details: The Padwell Arms, Stone Street, Sevenoaks, TN15 0LQ | 01732 761532 www.thepadwell.com In a sentence - A traditional dog-friendly rural free house boasting a mouthwatering menu of high quality dishes and a wide range of vegetarian options

THE PADWELL

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he Padwell Arms bills itself as a traditional country pub with a difference – the difference being that they welcome four-legged customers as well! Completely dog-friendly throughout, The Padwell is the perfect place for dogwalkers to relax after rambling through the surrounding countryside. Start your walk at Stone Street or enjoy a brisk stroll through the orchards and fields before dropping in to the Padwell for a well deserved meal.

The Padwell’s kitchen offers a wide variety of high quality food and a menu with a subtle Grecian twist; Greek Style

Chicken Soup and Moussaka are available alongside traditional pub favourites like Beer Battered Haddock and Toad-inthe-Hole, and all of them can be enjoyed in The Padwell’s spacious sixty-seater restaurant.

It is not all about fine dinning at the Padwell, however, there is also a rustic and intimate snug area where customers can sample an unparalleled range of real ales, many from local producers such as the Tonbridge and the Larkins breweries or Goody Ales.

Entertainment is tailored to suit the traditional rustic feel with local bands playing in the restaurant and bar and, in the summer, morris dancers performing on the Padwell’s beautiful south-west facing terrace. With plans to expand into a microbrewery and a dog-friendly B&B in the near future, The Padwell is definitely the place to go for your traditional country pub experience!

A Potted History of the Great British Pub

The inhabitants of Great Britain have been drinking their own locally brewed ale since the Bronze Age but it wasn’t until the Roman invasion that The Great British Pub first appeared on the scene AD 40 – Romans bring roads to Britain and with them road-side refreshment in the form of ‘tabernae’ - single roomed buildings that provided cooked food, bread and wine to travellers.

AD 400 – Following the departure of the Roman authorities and the fall of Romano-Britain, Anglo-Saxons establish alehouses, extensions of their domestic dwellings, where members of the village can meet to gossip and arrange mutual help within their communities.

AD 965 – Alehouses become so popular that King Edgar decrees that there should be no more than one per village.

1300 – Alehouses expand and develop due to the popularity of travel and pilgrimages, many now take in guests for the night - the modern inn is born.

1514 – In an effort to keep tabs on inns The Hostellers of London Guild change their name to the Worshipful Company of Innholders and expand their remit to include hostels that serve their customers alcohol.

1688 – The Dutch introduce gin to Britain as part of the Glorious Revolution and the number of drinking establishments sky-rockets. The focus for inns shifts from offering people lodging to getting them drunk.

1830 – The Beer Act introduces a new tier of premises permitted to sell alcohol; the Beer Houses. Beer is viewed as harmless, nutritious and even healthy compared to gin which is wreaking havoc among the London poor.

1914 – The Defense of the Realm Act, as well as introducing war-time censorship

34 vine March 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

and rationing, limits pubs' opening hours.

When the war is over several pieces of nation-wide legislation will limit pub opening hours but by and large are ignored, with pubs in different areas opening and closing as their local community dictates.

2007 – Smoking ban introduced in all enclosed spaces in the UK. Concerns raised by pub landlords regarding the negative impact of the law on sales prove to be unfounded and the British Pub continues unaffected and as popular as ever.

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WE’RE HIRING! ARE YOU A TALENTED WEB DEVELOPER? WE’RE LOOKING FOR A TALENTED WEB DEVELOPER TO JOIN OUR FAST GROWING CREATIVE AGENCY TO GET STUCK INTO A VARIETY OF EXCITING LIVE PROJECTS. IDEALLY, YOU’LL: • Be obsessed with all things web • Have a strong working knowledge of HTML/CSS/JavaScript • Have experience in the development of website/web apps with PHP & MySQL • Have proven technical experience and a portfolio of sites you have developed (graduates are also welcome to apply)

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To discover more about this exciting opportunity, please email emily.swift@vinedigital.co.uk or call 01732 760823

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MARCH, MUMS & MOTHER CHURCH; THE HISTORY OF MOTHERING SUNDAY As we head into March Vine takes a look at Mothering Sunday; its origins and history

I

n the modern mind Mothering Sunday or Mothers Day is a simple celebration; a chance for children across the nation to show Mum their gratitude by presenting her with cards and presents as a ‘thank you’ for a year of love and care, but it’s history is much more complex.

Mothering Sunday itself dates back to the 16th Century, when people would visit the main church in their area - their ‘mother church’, for a Sunday service. In later times, the day evolved into a holiday for servants, when they could visit church with their families. Child workers would pick flowers on the way and give them to their mothers, beginning the tradition which survives today.

However as time went on increasing secularism and the break up of village life led to a lapse in these celebrations and Mothering Sunday started to fade from the national consciousness

- until, in the 1950s it was revived with the help of a little American commercialism.

‘Mothers Day’ as it is known in Canada and the US is in truth an entirely different celebration from

the traditional Mothering Sunday; one started in the 16th century, the other begun in 1908, one a time of worship and family togetherness for many centuries, the other a consumer led festival. But without the Americanisation of Mothering Sunday it would in all probability have slipped off the cultural map along with St Swithin’s Day and other obscure celebrations.

You can keep the British elements of Mothers’ Day, or Mothering Sunday, alive this year by giving flowers (one of the few original traditions still in tact) or ‘Mothering Buns’ – sweet buns covered in icing and hundreds and thousands. If you’re religious, many mother churches are still running their services, or if not, a day of leisure is exactly in the spirit of the original Mothering Sunday.

vinedigital.co.uk March 2013 vine 35

Reliable, trustworthy service no matter what the job Business: CW Plastering Name: Christopher Wheatcroft Title: Owner Tell us a bit about CW Plastering

to lasses c n o i t ecora bring you a d e k a c s From services, we s businesse k g a buildin of Seveno eir fields... th ion select experts in re who a

At CW Plastering we offer a high quality and professional plastering and decorating service as a complete package or as individual services tailored to suit your needs.

We were established in 2007 and since then have built a good reputation with our existing clientele in Sevenoaks and the surrounding areas.We specialise in plastering through to decorating, as well as all aspects of building work right down to the finer details. Our work speaks for itself both through quality and customer satisfaction.

Can you give us a quick run-down of the services you provide?

Sure, we offer: a full decorating service, expert plastering services including re-plastered walls and ceilings, high quality painting and decorating Artex walls and ceilings skimmed or overboarded, re-skims or general repairs, renovation work, external rendering and painting, general home improvements.

Anything to add?

Just that we’re really clean, professional and offer very competitive rates. n For more information call 01732 366 426 or visit www.cwplastering.co.uk

Top notch cake decora tion Business: Cake Decoration Classes Name: Stefi Jakab Title: Cake Artist & Pastry Chef How did you get involved in something like cake decoration, and where did you train?

Well I have been doing it for many years. My dad was an executive chef in a West London hotel, so obviously that was a big influence for me... but he would never do puddings! He used to tell me that being a pastry chef was a completely different art from being a cuisine chef, so that spurred me on, I think. I’ve been interested in it ever since I was a teenager, really. I took my diploma in cake decorating at a famous london cookery school and I am currently training with them to become a fully-fledged pastry chef.

Tell us a bit about your classes They have just started and they are running at fine dining establishments across the county and in London.

The first one is at Chapter One in Locksbottom. The plan is to offer something high-end and artisan, but it will still be very friendly, relaxed, and a Michelin-starred lunch with fizz will be included. The aim is that

36 vine March 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

you’ll go away with real skills in cake decorating – able to create something really special and professional, above and beyond the iced cupcake.

What’s the most interesting or strangest cake you have ever decorated?

Well, I’m not that big on novelty cakes really, though I was once commissioned to do a blackberry shaped cake – that was quite challenging. To be honest I try to make all my cakes as interesting as possible while still keeping them sophisticated. I’m a big fan of Sylvia Weinstock’s style. I love things to be more glamorous than average, extravagant, so that everything stands out a bit. n Stefi’s first class is on 22 March at Chapter One in Locksbottom, Orpington. To book your place or for more information visit www.stefijakab.co.uk

e Nat ur al ly be au tif ul fu rn it ur Business: Owen Pine & Oak Name: Jessie Reid Title: Company Director What is the history of Owen Pine and Oak? This family-run business started over 30 years ago from small roots and has expanded over the years to become one of the leading stockists of many ranges of oak, pine and garden furniture.

Tell us a bit about your stock and showroom We have a 7000 square foot barn showroom with everything on display: pine and oak kitchen and dining sets, bedroom, office, occasional pieces and now garden furniture. We also specialise in antique pine sourced from across Europe and carefully restored.To complement our furniture we have carefully selected gifts, such as root bowls, sculptures and hurricane lamps. We offer a cash-and-carry service and of course take orders as well.

We would highly recommend a stroll through our showrooms whilst enjoying a complimentary coffee and biscuit.

What sets you apart from other furniture showrooms?

We are a rural business offering contemporary and traditional furniture in a unique barn showroom. Our customer service is second to none and there is always someone on hand to offer professional advice if needed. We also offer a bespoke service in pine and oak and an option of painted furniture in any Farrow and Ball colour. Our delivery service includes assembly and removal of all packaging.

What's new in store?

Garden Furniture - Now in stock and up in the showroom are our new ranges of solid teak garden furniture and the ever trendy wicker all-weather cube garden furniture. o.uk n For more information visit www.owenpine.c

or call 01959 534645

Make your lawn stand out from the rest Business: LawnCulture Name: Robin Meyer Title: Owner Tell us a bit about your business We are a family business and have been working in the Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells area for the best part of 35 years specialising in grass cutting. This was extended into mechanical lawn treatment in 1991. The business has been going itself for over 50 years but I joined my dad in 1976 straight from school. We of course have a vast array of machinery including; mowers (rotary and cylinder), aerators and scarifiers to cope with any size or condition of lawn. Above all, we pride ourselves on an unrivalled level of professionalism, reliability, customer service and commitment.

What specialist treatments do you offer?

We offer a wide range of specialist services. In addition to lawn mowing we also offer aeration using air injection, hollow tine and solid tine aerating, scarifying, top dressing, fertilising, weed and moss killer applications and turf repair and installation. n For more information call 01732 359049 or email lawnculture@hotmail.co.uk

Real photography for real people Business: Fox Joyce Photography Name: Ted & Kay Fox-Joyce Title: Business Owners

Reader offer £99 for a Family Shoot Valid until 31/03/13

Tell us a little about Fox Joyce Photography It is a family-run photography business based in Sevenoaks, my husband Ted and I have been at the helm for seven years now. We specialise in wedding photography, family portraits and newborn photography.

What makes you different from other photography businesses?

Ted has a Fine Art background, studying and teaching before becoming a Professional Photographer so he is very knowledgable and has tremendous technical skill, but we also have a different ethos from the majority of photography companies. We always try to create something a little bit different; photographs that emphasise surroundings and natural beauty and capture people at their most relaxed and natural.

Why should clients choose you?

Well, just for that reason really, we offer a unique service that is different in its approach to many photography businesses out there. We don’t want people to end up with wedding photographs or family photographs that are so rigidly posed and impersonal that they don’t reflect the atmosphere of the day or the family itself. It is all about creating a photograph tailored to the individuals in it – we think you get the best photos that way. n For more information visit

www.foxjoycephotography.co.uk vinedigital.co.uk March 2013 vine 37 or call Ted 07977 227267

Helping your child achieve their full potential Business: Kent Advanced Tuition Name: Alison Hesketh Title: Owner and Tutor Tell us a little about Kent Advanced Tuition It’s a business in West and Mid-Kent offering primary tuition with a particular emphasis on preparing children for the 11 Plus. I aim not just to boost students' knowledge but also to give them a strong grounding in examination technique – so that their primary exams are a little less daunting.

Why should clients choose you?

I think what sets us apart is our level of experience. I’ve been providing one-to-one tuition for over five years now and I’ve built up a comprehensive base of strategies, particularly for 11 Plus success. From a practical perspective we’re available throughout the school holidays which is really vital with 11 Plus exams taking place in September.

What is next for Kent Advanced Tuition?

We are running a summer school here in Sevenoaks at Knole Academy, which is a beautiful learning environment. We are offering a week’s tuition

Reader offer 10% off courses booked before 31/05/13

preparing students for tests (with classes in the morning or afternoon, whichever is easier for you and your child), teaching specific skills and key concepts. Class sizes will be very small so we can tailor tuition to children’s needs. We are looking forward to the summer classes.

Do you have any fond memories from your time in tutoring?

Yes! Loads. I would say it is always lovely to see a child’s confidence grow whilst they are being tutored, they really blossom. In terms of specifics?

Last year I had three students that passed their 11 Plus with 100% across the board. Obviously it is always very validating when something like that happens, I was just so proud of them.

n For more information visit www.kentadvancedtuition.co.uk or call 07725 688602

Helping your business help itself Business: Redspot HR Solutions Name: Nick Dufton Title: Owner and Director What is Redspot HR Solutions?

It is an online HR service designed to help small to mid-sized businesses.

We offer a free online service for employers which allows them to collect all their HR documents in one central location. We also write up policy, advice papers, and guidelines on behalf of companies.

Why did you set the service up?

makes everything very simple, organised, and increases the efficiency of your office and business. n For more information call 0800 7 1010 80 or visit www.redspothr.com

Nick’s Top HR Tips For Managers

I have been involved in human resources for 20 years, working my way up from HR assistant to HR director, and I often looked for a service like the one we now offer at Redspot. I would have found it very useful and I reasoned that other people would too.

• Never put off a “people issue” till tomorrow if you can possibly deal with it today! People issues left usually spiral to become major and potentially costly. Seek advice if you are not sure how to deal with an issue.

Why should clients chose you?

• Keep a copy of everything carefully filed to do with your employees' employment – contracts, policies you have given them to read and expect them to follow, performance reviews – its best to have them to hand when issues arise.

We have a great deal of experience in the sector, and our rates for writing policy are fantastic value for money.The benefits of our free online service really are tremendous. It’s a perfect place to keep all your documents, and even if you have an employee in charge of HR it’s a brilliant base for them to work from.The system itself can be accessed from anywhere in the world, managers on business trips or employees in the office all have access to an entirely digitised store of documents. It

38 vine March 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

• Communication, Communication and Communication – a key tip for managers who want to ensure their staff are engaged.

Ask for their views on matters and discuss why things could or would not work – spend time with all staff not just those closest to you.

BUSINESS DETECTIVES

Professional quality with a friendly face Business: S C Services Ltd Name: Rob Young Title: Business Owner Tell us a bit about your company We are a building firm based in Wrotham catering for a range of clients but with a particular focus on luxury, high-end products. We offer a total end-to-end service – designing, building and fitting - everything is done by us and our team! We’ve been working in the area for nine years now and have completed some really beautiful local renovations.

What makes you special?

Our main qualities – the things that set us apart from other building firms – are our high level of professionalism and our personal service. We are a very developed business. We have a full-time team of surveyors, office managers, operation managers, a bookkeeper, a site foreman, and a trusted team of architects we work closely with. Nothing is contracted out beyond the electricity and the plumbing. Equally, though, we are family-run! It’s not as if we are this big, faceless company, where things are going to be lost in bureaucracy and we offer a really personal service, tailored to you, and we are happy to hold your hand at every stage of the process if that is what you require. We are a wonderful mixture of professional and personal. You get the best of both worlds.

Why should clients choose you?

Lots of reasons! But I’d say top of the list is our customer service.

We go out of our way to maintain a close relationship with all of our clients, and we are honest with them too. Also we pay attention to individual needs. We are there throughout the whole process as well. If a client ever needs anything I myself am only a phone call away. You can’t say that for all companies – that the company director and owner can be contacted directly by clients – but everyone is given my number as a matter of course. If a

client has anything they want to discuss they can go straight to the top! I used to be a project manager before I went into building, so I know the process from the other side and I understand any issues that might arise. Similarly our builders, landscapers, and bricklayers have worked together for five years now, so they know each other well and function brilliantly as a team, which in turn makes everything that much more efficient.

Most impressive thing you have ever built or renovated?

We’ve done some really beautiful Grade II listed properties around Sevenoaks and Shoreham. We take care of everything within the houses and work really closely with English Heritage to complete the jobs. That is always really exciting and interesting to work on.

That said though it’s not our sole concern: we turn our hands to a huge range of jobs for a huge range of clients. All jobs are interesting and impressive in their own right.

Anything you want to add?

Only to reiterate that we are a very professional but very accessible outfit, with a great deal of experience behind us. We have done over 300 houses in the local area now, seven of which were new-builds.

Also we are basically a family business at heart. My wife and I started it ourselves and have built it up to the high level it is at today.

n For more information call 01732 820 452 or visit www.scservicesltd.com

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Rob working on the roof detail

Internal shot

Exciting new concept in construction.

Extend your property – affordably Business: All Seasons Group Ltd Name: Richard Bee Title: Managing Director When did the All Seasons Group start, how long has it been going?

We’ve been going now for a grand total of fifteen years, installing and maintaining windows and conservatories in the local area. I myself, as business manager, have a background in construction, so really I have been in the business even longer than that.

Tell us a bit about your Contemporary Structures range It’s a brand new range for us, and it’s something completely fresh and sleek in terms of design. It combines the best elements of a conservatory with the best elements of an extension; it has all the light of a conservatory but it also has brickwork, timber-work, it’s much more insulated and just much more substantial.There’s also a great emphasis on interior innovation within the range, with aluminium fixtures and Integral Blinds – which are a wonderful new range of blinds that come set within the glass of the window, meaning that they require absolutely no cleaning or maintenance.

How long does it take to put one of these structures up?

They are tremendously quick! We would usually quote an average of nineteen days, but obviously that is dependent on individual circumstances. Basically though, because it’s a structure built from steel beams it can be erected much faster than a regular extension, and there is none of the disruption or trauma to the exterior of your home that would normally come from building works.

Reader offer

Vine Readers Will Receive Complimentary Integral Blinds When They Install A Contemporary Structure From The All-Seasons Group

What are their benefits?

There are so many benefits. Everything you get from a conservatory you would also get from this range; it’s a wonderful way to bring light into your house, a great way to experience ‘sitting’ in your garden whatever the weather; and just a wonderful new space for you and your family to enjoy.The fact that it is so much more substantial also means that heat loss and gain is reduced so you get a very temperate, intimate room.You won’t need any planning permission before it is put up (which is not the case with a full extension) and of course it goes up very quickly and with the absolute minimum of disruption. It’s fully designed for you, all the really difficult decisions have been made, but you obviously have final control over the details; the finishes, the colours, the overall feel of the structure. At the end of the day, as well, you are simply enlarging your property and adding value to it, which is always a bonus.

And finally why should local people choose you?

Well obviously we offer this new range, which is a great reason, but really all of our products are based around very innovative designs. We are a family business and really friendly, and of course very rooted in the local community. Also we are simply a really experienced team, we’ve been around such a long time, there is hardly anything in construction we haven’t seen.

n For more information call 01959 933 100, email richard@allseasonsukltd.com or visit www.contemporarystructures.co.uk Finished roof

Completed steel frame

Roof lantern in progress

40 vine March 2013 vinedigital.co.uk Completed project

Giving your home a heart Business: Ruach Kitchens Name: Ian Penman Title: Kitchen Designer and MD Tell us a bit about your business and its history

Can you offer us some proof?

Well we started in 1993 so we are celebrating our twentieth anniversary this year, which is great. We’ve expanded a lot in that time but we’ve always been keen to remain a really local business. We’ve been in Westerham now for nine years and have just moved to a new showroom in the high street. We are definitely firmly rooted in West Kent and it is really important to us to keep building a recognisable brand and local presence.

Seventy per cent of our new work comes through customer recommendation, which I think is really the ultimate proof of a quality product. People are so pleased with us that they send family and friends; what higher praise can you get? We always get wonderful testimonials from customers as well.

What makes Ruach Kitchens special and sets you apart from other kitchen designers?

It’s all about lifestyle at the moment.There are big moves to incorporate the kitchen into the living space, a lot of people are knocking down partition walls between kitchens and lounges to provide a space that is a bit of both. It is really convenient, actually, for entertaining or cooking for friends. Also the modern, uncluttered look is always very popular, and people are starting to mix mediums as well, combining smooth flat surfaces and granite with a more rustic wood.There is a lot of smooth glossy doors and sleek elements paired with woods like oak and walnut at the moment.

I think the main thing is that we oversee the process completely, from beginning to end. We design the kitchens using the award-winning Mobalpa range and fit it – right down to the final door handle. Every single one of our fitters is fully qualified for plumbing, electrical and kitchen fitting, and we maintain a constant presence right the way through the process. I’d say another key strength is our attention to detail; we really pride ourselves on that as a company, and it is the details that make the difference between good and brilliant. Not just when it comes to design, but when it comes to the building and fitting as well.

What are the latest kitchen trends?

n For more information call 01959 561333 or visit www.ruachkitchens.co.uk

Customer feedback “Ruach were quite prepared to help & understood the importance of getting the design right for me instead of just getting a quick sale” Mr Bradley, Bromley

“Your staff, Mobalpa units and worktops have been creative and flexible, working with me to achieve my wheelchair-friendly kitchen, thank you all very much” Lucy, Sevenoaks

“So impressed with the entire service, I could not believe how quick and efficient the whole project was” Mrs R,Tunbridge Wells

vinedigital.co.uk March 2013 vine 41

Quality residential and commercial construction Business: David Williamson Construction Name: David Williamson Title: Owner Tell us a little bit about your business?

Well, where to start really? We have over 25 years' experience in the construction not only of homes but also of commercial buildings. We’re based in West Kent but we operate across the whole county as well as in Sussex, Surrey and even South London. We do a huge range of jobs - we can turn our hand to anything - from building industrial units to family homes.

That is quite a range, do you prefer one type of job to another?

Not really, they are both great areas to be working in. We try to approach all jobs as equally important, whether you are employing us to build your company's head quarters or renovating your home. Whether your budget is big or small you will get the same attention to detail and level of service from us.

We also have a really relaxed and flexible approach and we can ensure a high level of service both during the project and after completion. Finally – this will sound Tips simple HR Topwho has had building Nickbut’sanyone work done can tell you it’s not the case rs age Man firms – we always For with all construction ensure that our projects are completed on time, within budget and with care and consideration.

n For more information visit www.williamsonbuild.com or call 01622 873249

Why should customers choose you?

We are committed to providing a professional, reliable and personalized service – that is what is at the heart of the business.

Now eve ryo ne can have a bea utif ul bat hro om Business: The Bathstore Name: Karen Curtis Title: Director Tell us all about The Bathstore; what exactly is it your business does?

We are the local branch of a national chain. The Bathstore has over 170 stores around the country, and we offer designer products at high street prices. We also provide a complete end-to-end service, meaning we will design, build and install your entire bathroom for you.

showroom as well, so you can come in and get a feel for our different products: stand in showers, lay in baths, get a feel for the different products – literally.That is something you definitely don’t get online.

As part of a national chain we can offer really competitive prices, being a franchise we can also source products from other suppliers so if there is something really special or unique you must have for your bathroom we can get it for you.

What are your most popular products?

That’s difficult to say actually, I think everyone wants something to suit their own tastes. We offer a really wide range of designs both classic and contemporary – or you can opt for a mixture of both. Free-standing baths are big actually, we sell a lot of those, and fitted bathroom furniture as well – cabinets and dressers, those are very fashionable at the moment.

What sets you apart from the competition?

I think the main thing is that we offer a complete end-to-end service. We are with you every step of the way, and you don’t have to deal with lots of different agencies or different people at different stages. Also we are ‘The Bathroom Experts’; we really know our stuff when it comes to designing and fitting. We are a

n Bathstore Sevenoaks, London Road, Riverhead, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN13 2DN. For more information call 01732 454112 or visit www.bathstore.com

WE’RE HIRING! MARKETING SALES EXECUTIVE WE’RE LOOKING FOR A BRIGHT, AMBITIOUS AND HUNGRY SALES EXECUTIVE TO JOIN OUR HUGELY SUCCESSFUL AND FAST GROWING KENT PUBLISHING COMPANY AND FULL SERVICE COMMUNICATIONS AGENCY.

JOB DESCRIPTION • Building, fostering and developing relationships with new and existing clients to seek and maximize commercial opportunities at every possible opportunity • Seeking, spotting and capitalizing on opportunities to cross-sell in to our portfolio of products, spanning print-based and digital advertising, websites, design, print and social media training • Building an ongoing and stable pipeline of qualified sales leads from a range of sources – including outbound calling, social and face-to-face networking • Meeting clients and prospects face-to-face at our offices and across Kent, London and the South East • Attending breakfast, daytime and evening networking and social events across London and Kent on behalf of the company

Competitive salary and stunning working environment

To discover more about this exciting opportunity, please email emily.swift@vinedigital.co.uk or call 01732 760823

www.vinedigital.co.uk

KNOW YOUR ONIONS

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he onion has come into its own this season – it’s been featured in cookery guides as a meal in itself, and an ingredient to boost the flavour of any dish. Growing your own onions is an easy and affordable way to get organic veg and it has never been easier. Spring onions, shallots and others can be grown at home, from seed or from sets (sets are immature onions which grow into crops). To get started, simply obtain either onion seed or a set (preferably heat-treated and available from most garden centres).

Growing from a set will be easier and more reliable, but growing from seed gives you a wide choice of onion types. Choose a sunny, dry patch of ground, or if you have heavy soil in your area, mix grit and compost with the soil beforehand. If you want to ensure your crop, dig up the ground and spread manure a few weeks before planting.

Plant in early spring.

If planting from seeds,

sow five or six seeds in groups, leaving a space between each group. Cover the seeds and, if you like, label them.

If growing from sets, poke shallow holes in the soil and drop the onions in, then cover them so the section where the sprouting greens meet the bulb is just poking out of the soil. Weed these as much as you can, but water them sparingly.

Your onions will be ready to plant when their leaves turn yellow. From flower-bed to pot, it’s as simple as that!

vinedigital.co.uk March 2013 vine 43

Your Sevenoaks family pinboard

Mother and Baby Film Club at The Stag

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onging to take in the most recent films but worried that your baby will have different idea s? Then The Stag’s mother and baby cinema screenings could be for you.

On ever y Tuesday, these screenings are a brilliant way to meet other young parents, and also just to spend some time out and about with your young child.

No matter what film is showing your baby goes free and you can relax and enjoy the feature without worrying that your baby or toddler will disturb other cinema goer s. All films have a slightly lower noise level and slightly raised light setting mak ing it a more peaceful experience for the little ones. n Visit www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk for more details and a list of screenings

MONKEY MUSIC TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND SEVENOAKS E: tunbridgewells.sevenoaks@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 83141081 The Hollybush Indoor Bowling Centre Hollybush Close, Sevenoaks, TN13 3UX EXCLUSIVE OFFER FOR VINE READERS QUOTE: MMVINE1 Follow us on FACEBOOK for all our local news and events https://facebook.com/MonkeyMusicTunbridgeWellsAndSevenoaks Age-banded classes held 4 days a week! For full details visit our website

Build a brighter future for your child create individual tutoring programmes, using proven Kip McGrath methods.

Maths Reading Maths Spelling 11+ GCSE Comprehension

Sevenoaks 01732 453657

Call today for a FREE assessment

The Studio,149a High Street kipmcgrath.co.uk TN13 1XJ

Reader Offer Book a free assessment by 31/03/13 to receive a Free Kumon starter pack containing a pencil, rubber, red biro and a stopwatch* *The starter pack is for those who register for classes at their Free Assessment and pack contents are subject to availability. Assessments to take place by 20/04/13

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work to unlock your child’s potential, building their confidence and independent study skills.

To unlock your child’s potential, contact your local Instructor for a Free Assessment.

Sevenoaks Study Centre Mandy Yarnold 01342 851221

kumon.co.uk

All The Right Ingredients For Cookery Fun! DISCOVER YOUR ABILITY TO SWIM WITH ANGELA’S SWIM SCHOOL Fun Birthday Parties Holiday Workshops School Curriculum and Activity Workshops

Also new adult cookery courses in conjunction with Kent County Council

12 WEEK COURSE STARTS MONDAY 15TH APRIL 4 DAY EASTER CRASH COURSE MONDAY 8TH to THURSDAY 11TH APRIL Small group and private lessons for all ages and abilities starting from 4 months

Our classes are conducted at a range of modern Private well-equipped pools New locations: West Heath - Sevenoaks and The Hilton - Dartford

®

Locations are: St Michael’s School Otford, Combe Bank School Sevenoaks, other locations include Cobham, Gravesend and Dartford

For more information or to book your place email info@angelasswimschool.co.uk or call 07990 570423

www.angelasswimschool.co.uk Check out our sister Swim School in London at www.cityswimacademy.co.uk

www.cityswimacademy.co.uk

Top-quality music classes for your little ones If you’re looking for something to kee p the little ones occupied during those damp, end-of-winter months why not run them down to Musical Bumps and give them a chance to explore their musical creativit y in a playful and friendly environmen t?

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ed by flautist Ruth Gordon, a local mus ic teacher and mum, Musical Bumps offer s a range of class es for children from birth to five year s, with each session carefully tailored to match their development. Parents and babies (from newborn) can pop along for a session of calming music to relax them both and deepen their bond, and will learn new musical activities to use at home. Toddlers can burn off that excess energy at a lively, struc tured class that includes finger rhymes and games, percussion, and marc hing and action songs. Or your pre-schooler can get ready for the big day with a class of musical learning specially tailored to support their early literacy, numeracy, speech and language skills.

Above all, learning through play and fun underpins ever ything!

Musical Bumps classes include puppets, props and percussion for ever yone, and involve and engage your child in a fun learning experience where they can tap, scrap e, shake along and sing traditional children’s songs from all around the wor ld.

You get to watch your child unleash their creativity and explore their natural affinity with music, meaning that it’s rewarding and enjoyable for parents too!

n New families are invited to attend a free trial session. Call 07799 061258 to book your session or visit www.musicalbumps.com for mor e information

vinedigital.co.uk March 2013 vine 45

O at R who a ro seco For p u w n t rd en sse sat , ev d y he ll th e ea ay 16 M Ho e 1 ry r in th o use h1+ child M r ex ar n ch in as p am 9. g as

30 s H am ta ead ed – lk 9. mas 12 30 ter .3 am ’s 0p m

Watch your child thrive in our happy, friendly school

Sa

tu

LAMBING WEEKEND

For boys and girls aged 2-11 We welcome children from the age of 2

9th & 10th March 2013 11am - 4pm*

From a young age, we encourage participation in music and sports Our track record in 11+ examinations for independent and grammar schools is impressive www.russellhouseschool.co.uk | 01959 522352 Station Road, Otford, Kent TN14 5QU

LANGUAGES MAKE YOU SMARTER

RHS Vine AD 93mm x 136mm A-W.indd 1

Vine chats to Tracey Taylor of Linguaholics WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT FOR CHILDREN TO LEARN A SECOND LANGUAGE?

14/02/2013 16:44

a purely practical perspective – if you are travelling abroad it is incredibly useful to speak another language, but it is also beneficial in and of itself as Michael Gove said: “It is literally the case that learning languages makes you smarter. The neural networks in the brain strengthen as a result of language learning.”

Young children are really primed to learn when it comes to any subject so it is a great time to introduce them to a second language.

They pick up WHAT DO the sounds and Reader Offer YOUR LESSONS patterns of a new Free 30-minute trial lesson CONSIST OF? language very (subject to availability) We teach quickly and the Quote Vine when enquiring. three groups: more they Love Valid until 31/03/2013 3-11 year olds Learning Languages following the La Jolie when they are young, Ronde course; GCSE the more likely it is that and A Level Revision; and they’re going to find it positive adults. We also offer 1:1 tuition when they’re older. But it’s not for beginners, improvers or just for children, adults often students who want to gain more want to learn a language and confidence. The emphasis is Linguaholics caters for them always on fun and relaxed lessons as well. to encourage a positive approach TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT THE to language learning.

BENEFITS OF LEARNING A FOREIGN LANGUAGE AT n For more information ANY AGE check out our website www.linguaholics.com or I think the benefits are call 01732 457553 innumerable. It is beneficial from

Enjoy local produce stands, food and craft stalls, course information and of course meet the stars of our show: NEW BORN LAMBS! * Please note last admission is 3pm

Hadlow College Tonbridge Road, Hadlow, Kent, TN11 0AL. 0500 551 434 | www.hadlow.ac.uk

Lambing weekend advert (Vine Feb 2013).indd 1

13/02/2013 09:23:03

Rochester Independent COLLEGE The High-Performing, Non-Selective 11+ Alternative Rochester Independent College is a high-performing and academically nonselective independent school based in the historic city of Rochester. It accepts day students from 11 and boarders from 16 and focuses on examination success and university entry in a supportive, lively and informal atmosphere High-Performing Rochester Independent College’s students perform to an impressive standard at A-Level with the results for core subjects (such as English, Science and Maths) placing it amongst the leading schools in Kent and top in Medway in 2012. Forty per cent of all A-Level entries achieved A*/A. It is attention to the academic subjects identified as desirable by the country’s top universities that has earned Rochester its reputation as a high-performance exam-oriented institution. Three Rochester Independent College Science and Maths students won places at Trinity College, Cambridge in 2012 and The Good Schools Guide recognised Rochester’s track record of top A-Level English Literature results with a recent award.

But it is not all about the traditional subjects; Rochester Independent College also provides exciting artistic opportunities and works to bridge the perceived gap between the academic and the creative. There are no restrictions on A-Level combinations and students mix Chemistry with Textiles, History with Film, History of Art with Graphic Design, Maths with Music Technology, and Physics with Photography, to name only a few options.

Despite its impressive track record of A-Level results, Rochester Independent College recognises that exams aren’t the only important part of education and its philosophy of putting students before statistics has produced not only outstanding results but students who have the confidence to move on to university successfully.

“The quality of education is outstanding” Ofsted

“I was so impressed with the classes and teaching I saw and came away with a very positive view of the College, its ethos and aspirations. The priority of teaching and learning was foremost” Peter Read, Kent Independent Education Advice

“The teaching at Rochester is rigorous and tailored to the best possible exam results. It offers a broad education combining its original focus on getting students into competitive courses such as medicine and dentistry with a new emphasis on the creative arts” Liz Lightfoot,The Independent

n For more information call 01634 828115 or visit www.rochester-college.org

Minibus ServiceS Rochester Independent College provides convenient, reliable and subsidised minibus services for students living in West Kent as an alternative method of school transport. Students can be collected from Sevenoaks and the surrounding villages each morning and returned each afternoon, taking the hassle out of the daily school run.

Non-Selective Rochester Independent College is a completely academically non-selective school meaning that there are no entrance exams or minimum grade requirements for admission. Students who did not perform as well as they had hoped in the 11+ or who have been disappointed by the restrictive admission procedures of other schools can find a lively and encouraging atmosphere at Rochester Independent College. With class sizes averaging eight pupils the sheer wealth of individual attention students receive means that confidence and self-assurance soon grows, and children thrive in an atmosphere where self-expression (there is no mandatory school uniform) and equality (everyone is on first-name terms) is paramount. It is this emphasis on individual potential and expression, combined with a very formal approach to assessment and exam preparation, that makes Rochester Independent College a refreshing 11+ alternative and a leading sixth form option for students looking for a fresh start after their GCSEs.

GREEN GRANVILLE!

It has been another exciting year for the students at The Granville School as they continue to discover the world of environmentalism and set their minds to solving the ecological issues of the future

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he Granville School is a high achieving independent day school in Sevenoaks for girls aged between 3 and 11 and boys between 3 and 4 which aims to develop the full potential and natural talents of each student in order to prepare them for a fulfilled, happy and productive life. There is always a strong emphasis on the environment and the natural world at Granville, with students enjoying a range of special ecological pursuits from Eco Day in September through to a visit from author Lauren St John last month.

Eco Day On September 21st Granville School held its annual Eco Day. The theme this year was ‘Energy’ with each year group enjoying a range of creative and artistic pursuits designed to highlight environmental issues. Pupils were given the opportunity to make scarecrows, jewellery and posters - all from recycled materials, and each year group took part in a special Eco Day activity tailored to their abilities. Years 1 and 2 performed a play entitled ‘The Story of Planet Earth’ and, through improvised drama, reached their own conclusions about how to solve environmental problems. Year 3 penned acrostic poems on the subject of energy and performed them in front of the class, while Year 6 were issued with hand-held digital cameras and spent several weeks writing, recording and editing short films about their Eco School and the many ways in which it helps the planet.

Eco-Warriors!

Ecology isn’t just for one day at The Granville School.

Throughout the year a special group of pupils - The Eco Warriors - assist everyone in their efforts to help the environment. From reminding the school community of energy saving measures like turning off lights and

48 vine March 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

conserving heat, to helping recycle or compost school waste. The Granville chickens help the children experience the natural world and learn about the effort that goes into producing food. Eggs from the school hens are raffled off daily.

Biodiversity and Bird Watching A bio-diversity trail has been established in The Granville School’s five acre site to encourage students to look more closely at the sheer variety of flora and fauna that surrounds them every day. The children are also keeping tabs on the school’s bird life with Year 5 taking part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Bird watch. The school has also erected three new custom bird boxes in the hopes of encouraging Tawny Owls, Little Owls and Woodpeckers into the grounds. This focus on the avian population helps the Junior School to prepare for an annual Bird Festival; a day of crafts, drama and poetry centred around our feathered friends.

A Visit From Lauren St John On Wednesday 13th of February acclaimed children’s author Lauren St John visited The Granville School and gave an inspirational speech to the senior girls. She talked about her amazing life in Zimbabwe and of the animals that she grew up with, especially her dolphin experiences. Students were able to meet Lauren after the speech, where she signed copies of her books and answered questions from the girls on what could be done to help the plights of endangered animals. The effect of Lauren’s visit was so profound that the senior girls are now planning to incorporate photos from her speech into a display to help raise awareness of global wildlife issues.

Throughout the year a special group of pupils - The Eco Warriors - assist everyone in their efforts to help the environment

Getting a

FAIR DEAL

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ntil 2010 and the position under the Hildebrand case, it was acceptable to turn a blind eye to spouses who would, unbeknown to the other spouse, copy or take financial documents if they suspected full disclosure had not been made, as long as these were not obtained by force and no criminal act was undertaken. Previously, evidence obtained by way of “self-help” would be allowed, to achieve a fair result in divorce proceedings often resulting in more advantageous and just settlements.

The case of Imerman v Imerman in 2010 however, changed the legal position entirely.

This case resulted in helping yourself to documents belonging to your spouse and using them to show non-disclosure becoming unlawful. When going through a divorce and financial distribution of assets the starting point for any family lawyer or the court is to have “full and frank disclosure” of the parties’ assets. One must know what is in the matrimonial pot before deciding how to divide it. Despite this, many spouses will now be able to keep assets hidden or not disclose them even if the other spouse were to find documents relating to these hidden assets.

In the case of Imerman, after petitioning for divorce in 2008, the wife’s two brothers who worked in the same office as the husband, accessed the husband’s personal computer on the basis that he might try to hide his assets. The Court of Appeal ruled in favour of the husband against his wife and her two

Divorce matters often make high-profile media cases but behind the headlines are often bitter battles. The courts rely on both parties to disclose their assets but what happens when one side doesn’t co-operate? Mei-Ling McNab of Brachers reveals the legal position of both sides when dealing with high net worth cases

brothers, banning her from using information taken from her husband’s computer without his permission for the purpose of divorce proceedings. The justification of the court was that there were sufficient alternative resources available to discourage non-disclosers.

What are these alternative resources available to the spouse of a non-discloser?

This can include using freezing and search orders and preservation of assets orders. Such applications require significant financial outlay, which may not always be readily available to the usually less financially wealthy spouse.

Injunctions are not easily granted except in exceptional circumstances such as where there is evidential proof that there has been material non-disclosure.

In a recent case in the High Court, an elusive tycoon husband was sentenced to a

two-year prison sentence (in his absence) for his failure to provide proper disclosure of his many millions he had tried to hide from his ex-wife. The judgment was to act as a bitter warning to any spouse who would try to defy the other spouse’s legal claim on the matrimonial pot.

The question is, will it work?

The difficulty is that there will always be a few individuals who believe that they will be able to beat the system and siphon away part of the assets in order to get a better deal against their former loved ones. The ability of the Court to draw severe adverse inferences, or for an application to be made for injunctions, search orders or indemnity costs against the spouse who tries to conceal doesn’t always make it up to the wronged spouse.

CONTACTS n Mei-Ling McNab is an Associate Solicitor in the family law department at Brachers; advising on all aspects of family law including matrimonial and children disputes; cohabitation agreements; pre and post-nuptial agreements. Should you require any advice on family law matters please contact Mei-Ling or a member of Brachers’ family law team on 01622 690691. www.brachers.co.uk

vinedigital.co.uk March 2013 vine 49

GREAT VINE

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Boogie Board LCD Digital Tablet Perfect for any desk, the Boogie Board LCD Digital Tablet is the paperless alternative to memo pads and Post-It notes. Write to-do lists, calculate sums, leave messages or mindlessly doodle while you work on its large 8.5 inch, LCD screen, this digital notepad can be used with the included stylus or any other suitable instrument including the back of a fingernail. Similar to using a pen and paper, the thickness of a line drawn is determined by the pressure applied and then when you’re finished, simply press the button and you’re ready to start again.

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vinedigital.co.uk February 2013 vine 55

Natural decor is renowned for adding light and space to your home and it’s going to be a key interior trend this year. Think sustainable materials, earthy colours and rustic textures

Their scents may have faded but these stunning antique perfume bottles can still bring an air of 1920s Paris into your home.

Available in a range of brands from Houbigant to Savon they come complete with oldfashioned cork stoppers and vintage labels (£2.50 - £15.00 www.theshabbybarn.co.uk).

We think they look beautiful arranged in sets of three on mantlepieces or shelves, and really add a touch of Gallic class to a dressing table.

These vintage wooden trugs are all the rage at the moment and are modeled on those used to store produce at London markets in the 1930s. What makes these boxes so charming is that they have the quaint names of old market traders (“Edwin Salmon Fruit Wholesaler” and “Albert Cox - Shrimp Merchant”) written on the side. Ideal for storing utensils you can also put them to creative use as outdoor planters (£20 www.theshabbybarn.co.uk).

In the digital age it is almost comforting to keep a reminder of how things used to be done about the house, and these wooden printing blocks make wonderful decorations. Spell out words with individual blocks or if you’d like something more personal The Old Printing Shop of London can craft you a customised design with your choice of letters, numbers and images on a vintage wooden background (www.theoldprintingshop.com).

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OThER SERvicES incLUdE: Hedge Cutting Stump Grinding The Heritage Window Company CLIENT A low resolution pre-press proof of your inser tion into Vine Magazine Vine Magazine – March 2013 Fencing PUBLICATION is attached. Please approve for press by return. Unless we hear from iSmart Home Control are custom installation specialists who design and Half-page advert FEATURE SIZE with amendments or new copy before the deadline stated, your install home cinemas, audio/video distribution systems, intelligent lighting logs Available you ar twork will be published as attached to proof reading). and other smart technologies allowing(subject home owners to achieve there Matt DESIGNER Please checkintelligent carefullyhome. for the accuracy of spelling, telephone numbers, ultimate Solid wooden handmadeFree furniture, Quotes addresses, email details and all other elements of your adver t/editorial 01892 530034 Other Services: 15/02/2013 at 6pm DEADLINE as we cannot accept responsibility for errors beyond this stage.

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HOME & GARDEN

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D

On Call Carpets on

BBC DIY SOS!

“Even in tough times, it’s rewarding to give something back to society”

O

n Call Carpets, established in 1999, is a local, family-run business that prides itself on customer care. We were therefore delighted to take part in a recent episode of the BBC’s DIY SOS programme.

Our name was put forward by our local business networking group, 'Business over Breakfast' as they’d heard that the programme was looking for local, reliable companies who were interested in contributing their services to a worthy community initiative.

The programme was aiming to transform the home of a struggling army veteran and his family in Maidstone.

We were particularly pleased to be part of an initiative to help one of our brave servicemen who sacrifice so much for our country. Our contribution was to help to improve the family’s quality of life by providing and fitting attractive, quality and durable flooring.

On Call Carpets supplied and fitted a bleach cleanable twist carpet to the family’s three bedrooms, landing and stairs, plus a domestic vinyl to their bathroom. We were really impressed with the DIY SOS team, who ran an efficient and professional programme, managing to renew every part of the house in just ten days! All the trades involved worked well together, successfully keeping within the small time slots that we each had to complete our parts of the transformation.

The “site banter” between the tradesmen and the builder/celebrities made it very enjoyable! All the cast were very friendly and appreciative of the companies who had donated their time and materials.

For those of you familiar with the show, “Billy” really is a very funny guy and the butt of everyone’s jokes, while Nick Knowles manages to stay cool, despite the banter and the time pressures!

On a personal note, I was delighted to be involved.

Even when we are all having tough times, it’s rewarding to be able to give something back to society.

This programme will be screened sometime in the next month or so, so keep an eye out for On Call Carpets!

Our thanks go to Ian Morgan of BOBs Clubs for putting our name forward; it just shows that belonging to a breakfast business club can broaden your horizons!

We would be very pleased to quote for any domestic or commercial carpets in and around Sevenoaks. All our work is guaranteed and all products have full warranties, so we provide a worry-free service. n For more information call Andy on 01732 886672 or email sales@oncallcarpets.co.uk for a free estimate and/or best advice. www.oncallcarpets.co.uk Follow us on Twitter and like our Facebook page.

'Business over Breakfast’ meet fortnightly on Fridays at The Holiday Inn Wrotham for an informal exchange of business information and networking www.bobclubs.com

“Billy” really is a very funny guy and the butt of everyone’s jokes, while Nick Knowles manages to stay cool, despite the banter and the time pressures!

vinedigital.co.uk March 2013 vine 57

WHAT’S ON? ART & CRAFT n 01-09 Mar. Critical Narratives in Colour & Form art exhibition. Kaleidoscope Gallery, Sevenoaks Library, Buckhurst Lane, Sevenoaks. Free. 08458 247200 www.kent.gov.uk/ libraries n 15 Mar-06 May. Reference Section art exhibition.

Kaleidoscope Gallery, Sevenoaks Library, Buckhurst Lane, Sevenoaks. 08458 247247 www. kent.gov.uk/arts n 20 Mar. Spring Flower Arranging Workshop. 19:00.

Memorial Hall, Otford. £30.

01959 525009

CHILDREN & FAMILIES n 04, 16 Mar, 27 Apr, 13 May, 29 Jun. Talk on Natural Remedies for childbirth, new-born babies & new mums. Kikodo Centre, St Johns Hill car park, Bat & Ball. £20. 01732 451839 www. kikodo.co.uk www.holistic-healthhomeopathy.co.uk n 10 Mar. Handmade Cards for Mothers Day. 12:0016:00. Penshurst Place & Gardens. 01892 870307 www. penshurstplace.com n 18 Mar. 1st Aid course for parents & carers. 09:30-12:30. St Julians Club near Sevenoaks. £30.

Peak Skills 01732 451839 www. kikodo.co.uk n 29 Mar-14 Apr. Easter Trail.

10:30-16:00. Penshurst Place & Gardens. 01892 870307 www. penshurstplace.com n 29 Mar-14 Apr. Craft Workshop. 12:00-16:00.

Penshurst Place & Gardens.

01892 870307 www. penshurstplace.com n 30 Mar, 06, 13 Apr. Meet the tapestry artist. Closed Mon except 01 & 08 Apr. 12:00-15:00.

Knole, Sevenoaks. Free. 01732 462100 www.nationaltrust.org.uk n 31 Mar. Easter Egg Hunt & Sunday Lunch. Royal Oak Hotel, 5 High St, Sevenoaks. 01732 451109 n 31 Mar-01 Apr. Storytelling.

14:00. Penshurst Place & Gardens. 01892 870307 www. penshurstplace.com n 02 Apr. Easter Garden Trail.

12:00-15:00. Knole, Sevenoaks. £2. 01732 462100 www. nationaltrust.org.uk n 04, 11 Apr. Dressing up in the Great Hall. 12:00-15:00. Knole, Sevenoaks. 01732 462100 www. nationaltrust.org.uk

COMMUNITY n 01 Mar 19:00-20:30, 02 Mar 10:00-12:00, 04 Mar 08:4510:15. New Community Hall & Sports Pavilion Plan drop-in

information sessions. Pavilion, Recreation Ground, London Rd, Dunton Green. Parish Council 01732 462966 n 05 Mar. Laughter the Best Medicine meeting. 19:45. Village Hall, Borough Green. Quarry Hill WI 01732 884768 n 06 Mar. Churchyard Working Party. 09:00. St Margarets Church, Halstead. 01959 532361 www.halstead-church.org n 06 Mar. Business Networking.

10:30-12:00. Royal Oak Hotel, 5 High St, Sevenoaks. Chamber of Commerce 01732 455188 n 07 Mar. Parish Council meeting. 20:00. Memorial Hall, Badgers Mount. Shoreham Parish Council 07912 611048 www. shorehamparishcouncil.gov.uk n 09 Mar. Fair Trade coffee morning. 10:00-12:00. St Marys Church Hall, Riverhead. 0870 444 1543 www.traidcraftschools. co.uk n 12 Mar. Volunteer open evening. 18:30-20:30. Ightham Mote near Ivy Hatch. 01732 810378 www.nationaltrust.org. uk/ighthammote n 16 Mar. Women’s Breakfast with Ali Herbert. 08:30.

Methodist Halls, Otford. £4.

Otford Methodist Church 01959 535099 n 16 Mar. Jumble & Quality Goods Sale. St Ediths Hall, Kemsing. Kemsing Scout Group 01732 762774 n 17 Mar. 10k Run. Knole.

Sevenoaks Rotary Club 07834 393405 www. rotaryclubofsevenoaks.org

DAYS OUT n 02-03 Mar. Hellebore Tours.

Broadview Gardens, Hadlow College, Hadlow near Tonbridge.

Adults £3, children free. 01732 850551 www.broadviewgardens. co.uk www.hadlow.ac.uk n 09-10 Mar. Lambing Weekend.

11:00-16:00. Hadlow College, Hadlow near Tonbridge. Adults £6, concessions £4. 01732 850551, 07771 635684 www. hadlow.ac.uk n 23-24 Mar. My Kent Big Weekend. Free standby tickets for visitor attractions from www. mykentbigweekend.co.uk

THE UNRIVALLED SEVENOAKS LISTINGS GUIDE. metal detector finds exhibition.

Wed & Fri (+ summer Sun) 14:00-16:30, Thu & Sat 10:0016:30. Eden Valley Museum, Church House, 72 High St, Edenbridge. Free. 01732 868102 www.evmt.org.uk n 01 Mar-21 Dec. Pills, Potions & Poisons exhibition. Wed & Fri (+ summer Sun) 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 26 Mar-26 Apr. Transitions tapestry exhibition. Closed Mon except 01 & 08 Apr. 12:00-15:00.

Knole, Sevenoaks. Free. 01732 462100 www.nationaltrust.org.uk

FAIRS & SHOWS n 02 Mar. Spring Kentish Crafts Fair. 10:00-15:00. Plaza Suite, Stag Community Arts Centre, London Rd, Sevenoaks. 07980 118626, 01732 450175 www. kentishcraftsfairs.co.uk www. stagsevenoaks.co.uk n 17 Mar. Spring Kentish Wedding Fair. 11:00-16:00. Plaza Suite, Stag Community Arts Centre, London Rd, Sevenoaks.

Free. 07980 118626, 01732 450175 www.kentishcraftsfairs. co.uk www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk n 21 Mar. Business Show.

Plaza Suite, Stag Community Arts Centre, London Rd, Sevenoaks. 01732 450175 www. stagsevenoaks.co.uk

HISTORIC HOUSES n 01 Mar. Ightham Mote reopens. Ightham Mote near Ivy Hatch. 01732 810378 www. nationaltrust.org.uk/ighthammote n 09 Mar. Knole re-opens.

10:30-17:00. Knole, Sevenoaks.

01732 462100 www. nationaltrust.org.uk

HISTORY n 12 Mar. Queen’s Own – history of the West Kent Regiment talk. 20:00. Memorial Hall, School Lane, Plaxtol. £2. Plaxtol Local History Group 01732 810489 www. plaxtolhistory.org.uk n 14 Mar. Talk on Britain with Betjeman. 20:00. St Georges Court, West St, Wrotham.

Wrotham Historical Society www.billchapman.me.uk

n 23-24 Mar. Armada!

12:00-16:00. Penshurst Place & Gardens. 01892 870307 www. penshurstplace.com

n 21 Mar. Sevenoaks Historical Society meeting. 20:00.

Undercroft, St Nicholas Church, High St, Sevenoaks. £3. 01732 453008

EXHIBITIONS

MUSIC – GENERAL

n 01 Mar-30 Apr. Smog & Birdsong commuting exhibition.

Sevenoaks Museum, Sevenoaks Library, Buckhurst Lane, Sevenoaks. Free. 08458 247200 www.kent.gov.uk/libraries

n 02 Mar. Artie Fufkins, Breretons & Kitsune Orchestra gig. Plaza Suite, Stag Community Arts Centre, London Rd, Sevenoaks. Adults £7, children free. 01732 450175 www. stagsevenoaks.co.uk

n 01 Mar-18 May. Lost & Found

58 vine March 2013 vinedigital.co.uk

n 09 Mar. Skatonics gig & barbecue. St Edith Hall, Kemsing. £10. St Edith Club 01732 762755 n 17 Mar. Papa Falloon lunchtime gig. 11:00. Royal Oak Hotel, 5 High St, Sevenoaks. £19.50 including Irish brunch.

01732 451109

MUSIC – BLUES & JAZZ n 06 Mar. Duck Soup blues gig.

21:00. Anchor pub, London Rd, Sevenoaks. Free. 01732 454898 www.blueswithbottleclub.co.uk n 15 Mar. Brett Marvin & the Thunderbolts blues gig. 20:00.

Plaza Suite, Stag Community Arts Centre, London Rd, Sevenoaks. £12. 01732 450175 01732 454898 www. blueswithbottleclub.co.uk www. stagsevenoaks.co.uk n 20 Mar. Big Joe Louis & Alan Glen blues gig. 21:00. Anchor pub, London Rd, Sevenoaks.

Free. 01732 454898 www. blueswithbottleclub.co.uk

MUSIC – CHORAL n 02 Mar. Temenos Chamber Choir concert. 19:30. St Nicholas Church, High St, Sevenoaks. Tickets £10 (students £5) from Sevenoaks Bookshop or 01959 523765 n 09 Mar. Judas Maccabeus concert by Handel. 19:30.

St Nicholas Church, High St, Sevenoaks. Cantate Choir & Vivace orchestra. Tickets £15 from Sevenoaks Bookshop or 01732 770570 www.cantatechoir.info n 24 Mar. St John Passion concert by Bach. 16:00.

Victorian Theatre, Salomons, Broomhill Rd, Southborough.

Adults £14, children £5. Kent Chorus & Meridian Chamber Orchestra 07803 605820 www. wegottickets.com/event/205847

MUSIC – CLASSICAL n 16 Mar. Chaconne Brass Ensemble concert. 19:30. Plaxtol Church. In aid of Demelza Trust.

Part of Plaxtol Festival 01732 888585 www.plaxtolfestival.co.uk n 23 Mar. Anton Stadler Trio Concert. 19:30. Ship Theatre, Walthamstow Hall School, Hollybush Lane, Sevenoaks. 01732 451581 www. sevenoaksmusicclub.org.uk n 23 Mar. In Town Tonight classical concert. 19:30. Pamoja Hall, Space Performing Arts Centre, Sevenoaks School, Tonbridge Rd, Sevenoaks.

Tickets £9 (concessions £7) in aid of Hospice in the Weald.

Sevenoaks & Tonbridge Concert Band 01732 467765 www. sevenoaksschool.org/whats-on n 24 Mar. Mozart & Haydn

Concert. 19:30. Stag Community Arts Centre, London Rd, Sevenoaks. 01732 450175 www. stagsevenoaks.co.uk Sevenoaks Philharmonic Orchestra 01959 575752, 563031 www. sevenoaks-philharmonic.org.uk

MUSIC – TRIBUTE BANDS n 08 Mar. Abba tribute night.

Banana Leaf Indian restaurant, 47 Bethel Rd, Sevenoaks. 01732 465846 www.bananaleafcuisine. com n 16 Mar. Back Street Jivers.

19:45. Doors open 19:30.

Village Hall, Shoreham. Adults £7, children £3.50. Shoreham Cricket Club 07929 440315 n 22 Mar. Robbie Williams tribute night. Banana Leaf Indian restaurant, 47 Bethel Rd, Sevenoaks. 01732 465846 www. bananaleafcuisine.com

PHOTOGRAPHY n 04 Mar. Digital projected image competition. 20:0022:00. Doors open 19:45.

Mencap Hall, 71 Hitchen Hatch Lane, Sevenoaks. www. sevenoakscameraclub.org.uk n 11 Mar. Panel competition.

20:00-22:00. Doors open 19:45. Mencap Hall, 71 Hitchen Hatch Lane, Sevenoaks. www. sevenoakscameraclub.org.uk n 18 Mar. Transport digital projected image competition.

20:00-22:00. Doors open 19:45. Mencap Hall, 71 Hitchen Hatch Lane, Sevenoaks. www. sevenoakscameraclub.org.uk n 25 Mar. Print competition.

20:00-22:00. Doors open 19:45. Mencap Hall, 71 Hitchen Hatch Lane, Sevenoaks. www. sevenoakscameraclub.org.uk

SHOWS n 09 Mar. Princeford Pals musical preview. Stag Community Arts Centre, London Rd, Sevenoaks. Part of Sevenoaks Art & Drama Festival. 01732 450175 www.stagsevenoaks. co.uk n 14 Mar. Sleeping Beauty ballet.

Stag Community Arts Centre, London Rd, Sevenoaks. 01732 450175 www.stagsevenoaks. co.uk n 21-23 Mar. Nicholas Nickleby play. Village Hall, Shoreham.

Shoreham Village Players 01959 523765

MARCH EVENTS AT THE ASSEMBLY HALL THEATRE Assembly Hall Theatre • Crescent Road • Tunbridge Wells • Kent TN1 2LU Ticket office: 01892 530613/532072 www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk WALKS n 03 Mar. 7-mile walk around Chipstead, Knockholt & Halstead. Meet 10:00 Chevening Church. Sevenoaks Ramblers 01959 524264 www. kentramblers.org.uk n 06 Mar. Winter walk. 12:00.

Knole. Free. 01732 462100 www. nationaltrust.org.uk n 13 Mar. 12-mile walk from Meopham to Seal via Stansted, Wrotham & Heaverham. Meet 09:30 Seal Recreation Ground for 09:45 bus. Sevenoaks Ramblers 01959 523135, 07961 501785 www.kentramblers.org.uk n 17 Mar. 5 ½-mile walk. Meet 10:30 Bucks Head pub, Godden Green. Tonbridge Ramblers 01622 746381 n 27 Mar. 12-mile walk around Powder Mills, River Medway & Hadlow. Meet 10:00 Riding Lane car park, Hildenborough.

Sevenoaks Ramblers 020 8690 5279, 07508 537016 www. kentramblers.org.uk n 31 Mar. 5-mile walk around Bough Beech Reservoir. Meet 14:00 Four Elms car park. Free.

Sevenoaks Society 01732 461623 01732 458898 www. sevenoakssociety.org.uk n 03 Apr. 6 ½-mile walk around Trosley Country Park & North Downs Way. Meet 10:00 Holly Hill car park. Sevenoaks Ramblers 01622 842979, 07742 594510 www.kentramblers.org.uk n 07 Apr. 10-mile walk around Trosley Country Park, Pilgrims Way & Wealdway. Meet 09:30 Wrotham Church. Sevenoaks Ramblers 01474 706885 www. kentramblers.org.uk

If you would like to include your event in these free listings please email basic details to Bob Carpenter at bobcarpenterhome@yahoo.co.uk

IRISH HOUSE PARTY

ROBERT CRAY

Fri 1 March 7.30pm £19.50

Sat 9 March 7.30pm £29.50 SOLD OUT

Dublin’s No 1 award-winning music and dance show, starring All Ireland Champion musicians, presenters with great banter and not forgetting some excellent Irish dancing.

Robert Cray, known as one of the most popular artists in blues and soul music, returns to the UK to promote a brand new album ‘Nothin But Love’.

ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

GILBERT AND SULLIVAN ABRIDGED

JENNIFER PIKE on violin 3 March 3pm £11, £15, £18, £20 Children & Students £1

Sun 17 March 7.30pm £17.50

Soul Sister

Sibelius – Karelia Overture Sibelius – Violin Overture Tchaikovsky – Symphony No 5

RUSSIAN COSSACKS

Tue 5 March 7.30pm £18.50

300 costumes, 40 world-class performers in UK venues for over 50 days and 1,000 litres of Vodka can only mean one thing – Russian State Dance Ensemble is back.

With original choreographies, this company of artists from the ballet, orchestral and choir genres have previously performed in the UK, France, Italy, Spain, USA, Japan and Germany.

THE DUBLIN LEGENDS Mon 18 March 7.30pm £20

Featuring Cannon, Campbell, Watchorn and O’Connor, formerly of The Dubliners. They continue to play all the classic songs and ballads known the world over: Whiskey in The Jar, Dirty Old Town,The Wild Rover, Seven Drunken Nights, Molly Malone and many more.

CHARLIE LANDSBOROUGH

SOUL SISTER

Thu 7 March 3pm 7.30pm £18

Multi-award-winning and critically acclaimed, Charlie with his five-piece band takes his own inimitable brand of country/ spiritual music back on the road this spring on a major 16-date tour.

THE SENSATIONAL 60’S EXPERIENCE Fri 8 March 7.30pm £23

All the original hits performed by four of the most popular bands of the 60s, starring The Tremeloes, Hermans Hermits, The Union Gapuk, The Ivy League, and hosted by Jon Brennan from The Ivy League.

Whether you are a Gilbert and Sullivan aficionado, a passing fan or you’re still not even sure you know who they are, this show will have you laughing in the aisles. Gilbert and Sullivan Abridged brings you as much fun, zaniness and humour as can be found while performing all 14 operetta’s in 90, hilarious, topsy-turvy minutes.

Mon 25 – Sat 30 March 2.30pm & 7.30pm £19.50, £25.50, £26.50, £27.50 £29.50.

Direct from its smash hit West End season, this new musical hailed as “Sensational” (Daily Telegraph) is inspired by the life and times of Ike and Tina Turner. **** ‘Sensational’ Clive Davies – The Times

STEELYE SPAN

Sun 31 March 7.30pm £18.50

2013 finds Maddy Prior – the voice of Steeleye for 38 years – back at the helm of a line-up featuring band stalwart and fiddler extraordinaire Peter Knight, Rick Kemp on bass, Peter Zorn and Julian Littman on guitars and Liam Genockey on the drum stool.

Russian Cossacks

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ebruary 2013 A low resolution pre-press proof of your insertion into Vine Magazine is attached. Please approve for press by return. Unless we hear from you with amendments or new copy before the deadline stated, your artwork will be published as attached (subject to proof reading).

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“W

ould like to friends, one in particular I would call meet... women a firm friend. An absolute treasure; we or men, aged help each other out, our kids get along between 25 and we have a shared interest in tea and 45 for fun, and gossip. But that’s the exception, friendship and not the rule. definitely nothing more. Must have And it wasn’t a great love of music, GSOH and like eating, drinking, or a shared obsession with something mid-90s comedy references, precool or funny that brought us together.

2005 music and sitting around in No, we were up the stick at the same comfies. And maybe a little mutual time and our boys were born the babysitting.” day after each other. That’s the new There are no two ways about it, the shared interest, that’s the new glue: older you get, the harder it is to make parenthood. friends.

Meanwhile, other friendships (with Sure, you make the ‘first name only’ friends you couldn’t have imagined friends, those listed in your phone as ever being prised from) flake away ‘Henry’s mum’ or ‘PTA until there’s little left seemed Jenny’, but when it comes Food, but dust. Friends whose You’ve got who essential piled up lives are so polarised to actual friendship, the you’ve got and from your own that they pleasure cruise sailed a on the conveyor unless you’re long time ago. You’ve seem to view yours like belt, the lady in either a) very got who you’ve got and a TV show, there to be the cashier’s hot critiqued and ridiculed. unless you’re either a) lucky or b) seat turned to my And sometimes, those very lucky or b) one of one of those those oddballs who can friendships become very husband and I oddballs who create a conga line out and said: “I don’t British battlegrounds, can create a of a funeral, you’re stuck where you nervously think you two with it. Or them. await the next catch-up conga line out look over 25” I’m very fortunate because you know you’ll of a funeral, to still have a brilliant be left either angry or you’re stuck network of friends that humiliated. with it. Or them I met through school, At school, these college and, in a handful tense exchanges – lit of cases, work. But they are literally by hormonal teenage touchpaper that: a network. About as scattered – would have exploded with a and hard to organise as the National playground cat fight or a series of Rail network in fact. We have a ridiculous handwritten notes. In your ‘Midlander’s Meet’ (guess where most 30s though, they fizzle out with an of the group live now) every summer alarming lack of fanfare. But what at our house. Without fail I spend the of the vacancy they create? Short of day afterwards sobbing and moping getting pregnant or joining a book around. club, I don’t know.

I meet up with my oldest school As the old adage goes, you can’t friend (as in a 20-year-friendship choose your family, but you can not an octogenarian pal) every other choose your friends: you just have to month and spend the day after that find them first. grizzling about the 60 days I have to wait until the next time.

I have been lucky to meet a couple Catch Holly on twitter @hollyseddon of ladies locally who I would count as First published April 2011

Win!

A set of Golf Clubs and a Membership Package worth over £400 To enter the prize draw, simply email your name, address and mobile number to win@vinedigital.co.uk with the subject line “Hever Castle Golf Club”.

Closing date for entries Friday March 31

is the grass greener?

Test drive our Club and take us for a spin Test drive includes: Range Balls & 18 Holes of Golf Only £25 pre-booking required Reserve your test drive: call 01732 700771 or email pholder@hever.co.uk

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Not available in conjunction with any offers. Rates only applicable until the end of March 2013 when pre-booked

Dreams that take shape At Kitchen Design of Sevenoaks we have over 32 years of experience in designing both contemporary and traditional kitchens. Choose from innovative features and inspiring technology to make your kitchen dream come true.

Showroom Opening Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9.00-5.00 Saturday 9.00-3.00 Closed Wednesday and Sunday 118 London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1BA Email: info@kdofsevenoaks.com www.kdofsevenoaks.com

01732 741100