JULY'14
Vouchers & Discounts!
Father's day in Kent
OUR CONTRIBUTORS EMILY R. COOK MICHELE MCCLARREN ABIGAIL CLARKE ALBERTO CONVERSANO
SILVI MCMILLAN
DIANA GIBBINS OLIVIA ROSE W ORTHINGTON HEIDI BOND
Welcome to your July's issue of Maid Closer. It's been a whole month since our launch and I have just finished making this issue. Well, shall I say editing it! I have had help from 2 new contributors, welcome on board! I would like to say a big thank you to all of them, as without their contributions and help, this issue wouldn't be out! The days are now fantasticly long, with plenty of sunshine. I have already managed a picnic and a visit to a sandy beach...my favourite time of the year!!! What's happening around us at the moment? Wimbledon is in a full swing, football, well let's move on...As the Hop Farm Festival is just round the corner, we have a little help for you in the form of festival make-up and ideas about what to take/do...If you are a fan of handmade products, especially those made in the UK, you are in luck, as we are starting a mission...And to cool down when the temperatures rise even more, there is a sweet GIVEAWAY. I hope you enjoy your read and please let me know what you think. Have a wonderful July.
Mon.
CONTENT The Alley Cafe
LEEDS CASTLE P.34
P.7
HOT THIS SUMMER
P.18
''WORKING WOMAN'' & AN ARTIST
P.12
P.27
STAY PRETTY AT A FES TIVAL P.20-21
P.22-23 WIN TAYWELL ICE CREAM
P.29
MADE IN KENT...
PRETTY MUDDY MAIDSTONE MOTE PARK MAIDSTONE, KENT, ME15 7SU
5K MUD R 12 JULY UN 12PM
Get down and dirty by taking part in a Pretty Muddy Race for Life event this year. It's a 5k mud run where women of mixed abilities climb, jog and walk all over cancer - it can be as challenging as you want to make it. Pretty Muddy events have staggered starts, called waves, to keep you safe on the course. Make sure you and your friends all enter the same wave as you can't swap once you've signed up. Make sure you bring a change of clothes for after your event and a towel to wipe off the worst of the mud and remember there are no showers or lockers at Pretty Muddy events, but there will be a bag drop area.. Don’t forget to invite your friends and family to support you on the day.
Have you attended any charity race or an event? Perhaps you have a funny story from the event you would like to share with us. Please let us know by filling in the form today. Thank you.
...YOUR LOCAL
READER'S LETTER Grandad's Pride I recently attended a Six-A-Side football tournament at Castle Colts football ground. My grandson Lewis plays for King's Hill Colts and I have had the real pleasure of watching him since he started. In my opinion, he is a wonderfully gifted player who always makes me proud. It is always a good atmosphere and day - a real family event. Lewis managed to score a couple of goals, got to the final and his team were narrowly beaten by Maidstone. Oh well - looking forward to the next tournament!
Barry Gibbins Do you have a story to tell? Have you attended an event you want to write about? Do you have photos to go with it? We want to hear all about it!
Made in Kent...
EAT SEASONAL... JULY'S BEST CUCUMBER
CURLY LETTUCE
Rehydrates body and replenishes daily vitamins!!!
Anti-anaemic - Anti-oxidant - Purifying!!!
Peel and slice the cucumber thinly, pour over warmed rice wine vinegar and raw unrefined sugar. Sprinkle with finely chopped dill, season with salt and pepper and leave to marinade. Drain before serving.
Try making a very simple salad with soft herbs like chervil, basil and parsley and dressing carefully with a perfect vinaigrette.
CHERRIES
Rich in melatonin, an antioxidant that helps regulate heart rhythms and the body’s sleep cycles. Poach with orange juice and a little sugar and serve with good quality chocolate ice cream for a black forest pudding.
19-20 JULY BROGDALE COLLECTION The 2014 Cherry Festival will be celebrating everything cherry! There will be around 80 varieties of cherry on display as well as the chance to try before you buy in the festival fruit shop. Browse the craft and produce village for some unique gifts and enjoy live music as you tantalise your taste buds with lunch from one of our local food producers. Adult - £8 (16+) Child - £4 (ages 3 - 15)
Concession £7
...YOUR LOCAL
THE ALLEY CAFE @ STEPPING STONE STUDIOS THE ALLEY CAFE is hidden in a little alley way in the centre of Maidstone, inviting 'front garden' full of green plants and herbs, wooden outdoor tables and benches filled with rays of sun make it look like you are in someone's back garden or a pretty allotment, but you are being served! Two great 'americanos' are delivered with a smile and I point my face at the sun immediately! Love the summer... & really like this place...!!!
QUIRKY COOL & ARTY...LOVE IT!
The Alley Cafe serves the best of locally sourced fruit and veg in hearty soups, artisan sandwiches, pastries and fresh homemade cakes, with friendly service. The bar stocks Kent Ales and Ciders, fine coffee and loose teas, with occasional acoustic music sets to accompany your lunchtime... Stepping Stone Studios - live events venue, with an inhouse art studio and gallery space that runs on the second floor. The studio team organise live music, performances and arts workshops for the public in an exciting programme that goes on all year... HERE ARE JUST SOME OF THE EVENTS & CLASSES: ART BUZZ Children's Art Workshops Saturday 11:30-1pm Yoga Monday Evening 7pm-8pm ÂŁ10 Pop-Up Cinema Every Tuesday, Free Music: BORN BRAVE JAM NIGHT EVERY WEDNESDAY 8PM The Comedy Club Def Poets Society Plugged Out gig.. For more info about events visit:
http:// www.steppingstonestudios.co.uk/
The Alley Cafe at Stepping Stone Studios 2 Museum Ave ME14 1QX Maidstone, Kent
Made in Kent... WHAT'S TICKING by Michele McClarren
I know I have wings, I can fly in any direction today But then I look back and see that complexity has a claim on me I have a direction but life has one too and it tells me at the last minute to turn left and right I looked up Hero and Love and saw that the two really have no clear defined example as love and heroes are images of each individual being When you had enough and keep going it's the Hero in you When you are mad and still find the time to think twice that is a clear undefined example of love When the soul is hurt but has the intelligence to make you reflect that is spirit When you see your wings upon another human being that is humanity not illusions We all have the power to define our destiny and earthly peace but modern life can lead many believe it has a condition called sacrifice ..Not so Your spirit is the essence of your being and unconditionally, you have the will to expand love, knowledge and destiny. Warriors are not born warriors they gained it through spirit Heroes are not born heroes they give the ultimate price for that name through growth Strength has no earthly measurements To be in tune with yourself do not be defined by labels but only be defined by the musical not of your soul. That is called Soul. When you wake tomorrow ask yourself what does it take to be a hero and I promise the answ will be ... to do what is right even when others do not value, understand or know of it. A young Greek man ran one day to deliver a message, only the Lord knows what was in his mi and soul but he changed the world with his speed, dedication and Spirit and we now celebrate his earthy being as the Olympics. You have the power to make a difference however small. You are ready to embrace it, to hear it, to celebrate it, to know it and to share it. You are not here on earth to survive you are here to live and leave a legacy that may not feed the thousands but if it fills one person's belly your love has been shared.
...A THOUGHT ON Spend your Sunny Sunday in Upnor‌ by Abigail Clarke
Fancy an easy day out without venturing more than 10 minutes down the road? Try the quaint riverside village of Upnor. It is the perfect chilled Sunday trip with a touch of history and a superb gastro pub lunch.
The history of the castle dates back to 1559 where it was originally built to defend the warships belonging to Queen Elizabeth I.
Start the day off walking down the short but sweet cobbled high street of Upnor and after The canons are still intact and also fine for a few minutes of admiring the Grade II listed climbing if you have some rather ambitious housing and welcoming pubs you will arrive at little ones! the castle. to
tes
wer The private castle grounds overlook the River Medway and are perfect for a picnic or some ind time to reflect, read or enjoy a cheeky If you are in need of a slightly more e sunbathe! wholesome lunch, as most of us are on a Sunday, there is a walking route located at the start of the high street of approximately 10 minutes which leads to Lower Upnor, a d beachy-looking bay where you will find The Ship Inn. Take a seat outside the pub and enjoy a hearty meal cooked to perfection whilst sipping an ice cold glass of sparkling white wine, amazing!
Made in Kent
Leeds and Broomfield C of E Primary School is holding its annual Summer Fair
06/07
BEARSTED GREEN
HOP FARM FESTIVAL 4-6 JULY
28/06 1PM
WATERINGBURY School Summer Fete
05/07 11.45-3PM
CLASSIC & VINTAGE VEHICLE SHOW
20/07 Kent Life will be playing host to many Classic and Vintage vehicles this summer! KENT LIFE, Sandling, Maidstone, Kent
18-19 JULY
The critically acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company put their own unique and hilarious twist on Shakespeare’s romantic tale of shipwrecks, sorcerers and silly servants.
LEEDS CASTLE, MAIDSTONE
EVENTS IN JULY/AUGUST
ROCK CHOIR LIVE! 15:00 - 17:00
13/07 KINGS HILL MUSIC FESTIVAL
Hazlitt Arts Centre, Maidstone, ME14 1PL
12/07 ONCE UPON A TIME
18/07
Tickets £20 Groove the night away with music from the 1950s through to the present day with Spectrum Disco. Hilton Maidstone Hotel ME14 5AA
GRAHAM CLARKE'S UP THE GARDEN STUDIO OPEN DAYS
05/07 02/08 Penshurst Place and Gardens,
Tonbridge, TN11 8DG
WORKING WOMAN
A DAY IN THE LIFE
Normally woken up at around 5am by either my husband or youngest daughter. First thing first, a lovely cuddle with my baby, in bed. Breakfast for me is normally a cup of tea with marmite on toast, or if I want to try to be healthy a hot lemon water. (This does not happen often.) Then it is a morning rush of, getting ready, making lunches, tidying, dog walking and getting out of the door on time ( another thing that doesn`t happen often.) After dropping my youngest off at school, I head out to the shop, which we, Laura and myself, have nicknamed “The Hut” ( Think Whitsable.) We have quite a lot of stock that goes outside, so this always takes some time to arrange. Then it is a case of editing and processing orders, in between serving our lovely customers, we like to chat. Lunch can be hit and miss, if we are busy or unprepared we may just have a drink and slice of cake from the local café, nothing wrong with being a little naughty in the middle of the day. We are always on the look out for new and interesting gifts to go in our gift section, so we may spend some time after lunch searching the internet.
Some time in the afternoon maybe spent on uploading more images onto our online outlets. We normally spend a lot of time giggling and coming up with crazy ideas. This is a day in the shop, a day on location would be different with each location, with that evening spent editing. As we have children to pick up we close just before school pick up and get back to our jobs as mums...
Sophia Moseley is 41, she lives in Maidstone with her husband and two daughters, 2 dogs, 2 cats and a giant snail.
Late afternoon is devoted to the kids. Dinner can range from a simple chicken salad to roast, depending what is in the fridge and how shattered I am. We always sit down together for dinner, I love to hear about the kid`s day and everything that is important to them, normally it really makes me chuckle and I need that.
When I was a child, I wanted to be an actress, like some of the old starlets, think Then it is the rounds of homework, reading, Marilyn, Rita Heyworth and the spellings and baths. Then bedtime snuggles, just lovely, this is always when my likes. If I wasn`t living the life that I am now living, I would like to be the Queen !!!
youngest comes out with some important piece of information, that needs another 30 minutes discussing, by this time I would smile and nod my head to most things as I am totally shattered.
Laura and myself came up with ”Original Art Photography” because of several factors. When my youngest started school, I decided that it was time to get back into the work place. However because she has additional medical needs and I need to be on call, it has been hard to find a employer. Laura and myself are both photographers and after going out on location together, we started to talk about art and how it would be great if everyone were able to purchase good quality images for their home, office or any space. The way we saw it at the time, you either spent a fortune on something different or went to a huge store and purchased something that a million other people aowned. Hey presto, Original Art Photography was born... We did the Fayre circuit... Then “The Hut” became available and we decided to give FB.com/originalartphotographybysandl it a shot. It has been a great starting point for us.
ORIGINAL ART PHOTOGRAPHY BY SOPHIA & LAURAtwitter.com/originalartphotobysandl violetangel1@hotmail.co.uk
Unit 4, Grafty Garden Centre, Crumps Corner, Maidstone, Kent, ME17 2AT violetangel3.wix.com/ArtPhotoSandL
TO FESTIVAL OR NOT TO FESTIVAL BY HEIDI BOND
I’ve abluted in some of the worst facilities in my time, mostly as a backpacker, back in the day. India being one, a memory of loo rolls and water, a highly sought after commodity, as I trekked on camel across the desert for three days. Tiger balm, under ones nose was a useful way to make using the facilities vaguely possible.
Festivals without kids are brilliant. No one cares what time you stumble back to your tent or anyone elses for that matter. You do as you like and, for a packet of wet wipes and a bottle, the world is your oyster. I’ve even been known to forgot the wet wipes. Camping with kids is a different beast altogether.
Firstly the tent. You can't make do with a £15 tesco 2 man anymore. Your abode needs to be watertight, easy to set up (the kids will want to explore immediately) and have enough room for a duvet, pillow, colouring books and binky the So fast forward twenty years and the thought of rabbit. This is before you’ve even sussed out the spending a night under canvas, in a field in dark. campsite. Ideally you need to think of each child Blighty, however much I try to convince myself it is as an adult size and then add one for the extra a fun thing to do with the family and on the bucket stuff you need to take with you. Bear in mind list, the downsides stack up. So a festival virgin I that you cant put up a 6 man tent by yourself. remain. The children won't be able to help much and might even be a liability. Camping with friends is I've watched and noted all the stunning, funky the best way forward as you can help each other. festival photos that appear on Face Book over the Having said that I’ve helped many a tent pitcher at years. From the ‘40 something brigade’ all strutting family festivals and people are usually really their thing en mass at various festivals around the friendly if you need a hand. country, to the carefree gorgeous teenagers experiencing it with their parents. The kids On Site roaming free, enjoying the circus entertainers, face painting, the freedom, the adventure. The parents Most festivals will publish a site map near the enjoying the ‘mid age crisis’ whilst kicking back date. You can make plans but unless you get with a beer outside their tent, reliving their youth there super early then chances are that your with an array of ‘on trend’ festival headgear, or if ideal pitch will be gone. it's a particularly well organised one, the festival Getting to your pitch from the car can be a yurt complete with bunting and scatter cushions. nightmare. Phil and Ted are your friend here, or one of those garden trolleys that packs down But all I can think is, yes it does all look romantic flat, or a little red wagon if you wear Boden. Kids and dreamy in an outdoor sort of way and ok until can carry quite a bit but do have a tendency to about 1am !! As I retreat to the tent, ear plugs in, suddenly drop it all and go climb a tree or join in a hoping my son will sleep, that my hubby won't game of Frisbee….. snore, that my bladder survives the night, that the music will stop SOON, that other campers WILL lie in, and that I won't dislocate my shoulder as I try and don my bra in the morning, in a tent 3ft high ! Could I go but leave by cab at midnight ??? So I decided to have a chat with a friend of mine Nicky Thomas-Davies who I consider to be a festival expert and this is what she had to say:
WADFEST
You need to find somewhere near the loos but THINGS TO TAKE not so near that you get constantly woken up by childless revelers or swamped in mud when the EAR DEFENDERS (for kids) and ear plugs (for you) water hose to the taps gets dislodged. You want to be near the stage but not so near that it keeps WATERPROOFS – overalls are particularly good you up at night. There is no perfect place. It’s because you can just throw them over everything. very easy to lose your tent so I usually look for a good identifying marker like a tall flagpole and WELLIES - Even if the weather is good take pitch near it. This can save a good 30 minutes at wellies just in case. A festival site can turn from the end of the day when you are carrying your grass to mud in the time it takes 2000 people to child back from the stage. run for shelter. GOLF UMBRELLA – for sun or rain – also good to use as an identifying marker if your kid gets lost! MARKER PEN – write your mobile phone number on your child. Seriously. PICNIC BLANKET - one that folds up with the muddy side inside so you can just keep throwing it down at whatever stage you move to.
FESTIVALS TO LOOK FOR: I have a 15 year old, 8 year old and 7 year old (with bowel problems)
by Izzy...
CAMP BESTIVAL - expensive, huge, great bands, lots for kids of all ages, great online forum to meet people beforehand and get 'local knowledge'. Constant worry about losing kids. WILDERNESS - fairly expensive, not too huge, loads for adults and teens but still quite a bit for kids. A good bet for families with teens. Noisy at night. JUST SO - Manageable, nice size, perfect for kids of all ages but especially 0 - 12. Brilliant at dealing with any queries or medical problems before you get on site. Highly recommended. ELDERFLOWER FIELDS - Manageable, nice size, great for kids of all ages. Book early for sports and arts camps. Has a lovely inclusive picnic on Sunday where you meet other people in groups of 12 and share a supplied picnic. Lack of disabled toilets.
WADFEST
''When I first started going with friends and family I think it was the independence I enjoyed because at family festivals you can be a bit more grown up. Now it's probably the music and bands and being so close to so many great people. COOL: being able to dress crazily, long days and literally a weekend of non stop things to do because they have to entertain everyone. NOT COOL: No showers, your skin ends up looking awful because you are dehydrated and can't do your normal skin routine. Don't wear lots of make up because if you have a late night and don't take it off, it will smudge and there are no easily accessible mirrors. Dont worry too much about make up or clothes as at most festivals people don't care. Wellies are a lifesaver if it rains. Bring food and a camp stove as it can be very expensive. Most of all talk to people, most people are lovely.
Made in Kent
...TAKE YOUR KIDS
HOP FARM OPENING 29 JUNE 2014! THE MEGABLASTER ARENA!!!
The freestyle Mega Blaster Arena is the first of its kind in the UK and is placed inside a huge barn with bright lighting, multi-coloured padded flooring, a see through mesh panelled combat arena with padding protection for all edging. A purposed built inflatable bunker styled barricade system of all different shapes and sizes to hide behind in game play. The arena is equipped with a sound system for enhancing the atmosphere in game play . The netting is see-through and acts as a viewing area for parents who might like to sit back and have a chat whilst watching their kids battle away. It is undoubtedly the future of ‘Nerf’ fun for all the family in a safe environment with the added bonus of the entire ‘Nerf’ Blaster range to play with, it is “Its Blast or be Blasted, R U Ready”!
OPENING TIMES:
Weekends: Saturday 10:00am - 5:00pm Sundays 10:00am - 5:00pm all other days by reservation, corporate or party bookings only School Holidays: Monday - Friday 10:00am – 5:00pm
PRICE
The session fees are just 4tokens or £4.00 for 30 minutes making the session affordable to everyone and making it great value for money. Half Day pass for 10 tokens (£10.00) which gives you 3 x 30 mins sessions in one day. (not transferrable)
YOUR STYLE
... MAID CLOSER LIKES
HOT THIS SUMMER
O'neill Ftw Ditsy Flip Flops New Safety Yellow £16.95
Fitflop Superjelly Flip Flops French Navy £34.99
Gandys, Original, Miami Pink, £18
Amalfi Tan Through Frill Top & Tanga, £14.95 each (sale)
Azure Delores Swimdress £75
Kelly B Yellow And Pink Organic Cotton Floral Bikini £98.00
The Target Bikini Reversible with Black £58
OLIVIA ROSE TINTED SPECTACLES The age old question… How to weather the festival season? The Festival season is in full swing, we’ve dusted off the Hunters, ready to adorn them in our attempts to replicate Kate Moss’s effortless glamour, but the important question is…
HOW TO PRACTICE SAFE SUN YET CHANNEL FESTIVAL FOX? Maid Closer’s Olivia Worthington investigates.
''It’s important to remember that festival season means, all-day drinking, all day fun and all day sun. So sun protection is a number on priority when preparing yourself for a full day of festival festivities.''.! WITH THE MARKET FLOODED WITH SUNSCREENS OF EVERY BRAND, SPF AND PRICE RANGE, HOW DO I PRACTICE SAFE SUN?
Recent studies have shown that factor 30 is more than adequate protection against the English summer sun. Very fair skin tones may prefer to use factor 50 but it has come to light that any higher factor is obsolete, the FDA are currently in the process of changing the labelling on packaging to avoid further confusion.
SO THERE ARE THE FACTS, BUT WITH SUCH A WIDE VARIETY TO CHOOSE FROM, WHO ARE THE SUNLIGHT SAVIOURS?
The market is flooded with sunscreens especially created for the face. Although each brand holds impressive claims, they often have a price tag to match their high stakes. So it became my mission to find an affordable and effective sunlight saviour. By sheer luck I stumbled across an Anti-age facial Sun Cream that seemed to tick all of the boxes, factor 30 - yes, water resistant- yes, non-greasy- yes, non-sticky- yes, absorbs quickly- yes, helps prevent the appearance of sun-induced brown spots & wrinkles- yes and yes. And to top it all off this box ticking sunscreen is less than a fiver (priced at £3.50), and where can you get it? At your local super market, it is ASDA’s own Anti-age facial sun crème in factor 30 and it does exactly what As for the makeup, I want to look edgy, boho grunge with a modern twist but with minimal mirror time and without looking like I’ve been punched in the face. So how’s it done? Start by achieving a fresh faced summer glow, keep the base simple by choosing a lightweight foundation or a BB cream. A dusting of bronzer will set off the sun kissed look and a pop of colour on the cheeks will keep you looking fresh in to the early hours. But the eyes are where you can really go for it. When creating a BOHO LOOK I always resort back to the Queen of Boho Brigitte Bardot, known for her Sex Kitten status during the sixties, her look is often emulated by modern day bohemian trend setters such as Kate Moss and Sienna Miller. Fresh skin and Smokey eyes make a look suitable from sunrise to sunset and far beyond. So don’t be shy and Kohl it up. My personal favourite eye liner range is the Eye Kohl
If you’re brave enough then rock the black but if you want to tone down the look a little ,or make your eye colour really pop, I would recommend the Kohl in
blue eyes, this coppery brown will make your eyes sparkle like sapphires, for brown eyes I’d recommend the navy Kohl in ‘Blooz’ to ‘Teddy’ for
make your conker coloured eyes seductively dark and
hazel or green eyes will look greener with the
earthy colouring of ‘Tarnish,’ each of these eyeliners can be brought on the MAC website and retail at £14.00. Wearing a SMOKEY EYE does not have to be complex, it’s all about working the product in to your lash line and simply smoking out, and the beauty of it is that it’s not supposed to be neat, just blend, blend, blend! All you need to do now to finish off the look is cover your lashes in lashings of mascara and ruffle your hair with your finger tips for a look that’s shaggy chique and ready to rock.
f
d
s
t
TOP TIPS: - Keep your eye Kohl in a cool box to prevent it from melting, to warm up the product simply circle it on the back of your hand until you can easily work it into the skin. - Build the look up little by little, it’s far easier to add more Kohl then to remove it and nobody wants to end up looking like they have a black eye! - To give this look a modern twist, only use eyeliner on the outer corners of your eyes, this will add definition to the shape of your eyes and will make your eyes look bigger than if you lined the inner rim, as shown in the photographs. - A great way to incorporate sun care into your makeup regime is to buy a BB Cream or foundation that contains SPF- most do nowadays but be sure to check the factor, the one used in the photographs is Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua Foundation with SPF 15, but if you require a higher factor a great alternative is Bobb i Brown BB Cream with SPF 35.
Makeup in order of application: Anti-Age Facial Sun Crème facto r 30- Asda, Foundation : Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua - 30 Beige SPf 15, P owder: Neal’s Yard Remedies Mineral powder- 04 medium warm, Bronzer: YSLTerre Saharienne, Blush er: Bourjois Paris blush95 Rose, Eye Shadows Bobbi Brown: From ‘Holiday Eye Palette’ , Beige summer wash Steel, Eye liner: Rimmel - 061 Jet Black (to emulate the dark Bardot smokey eye), Eye Kohl: MAC- Teddy (to add depth to Bryony’s Blue eyes), Mascara: Telesco pic L’Oreal (Black), Lips: Cream: Pot Rogue (Power pink 6)- Bobbi Brown (can be used as a blush).
Model: Bryony Letts.
HIGH STREET IS GREAT! WE ALL LOVE IT! DON'T WE? But there's thousands of small home based businesses who are trying to break through. At the moment they do not stand a chance to compete with big retailers. The cost - can we afford to buy cheap clothes? Is price more important than quality? Would it be worth while if, now and then, say 30% of the time we shop, we shopped at small home based businesses? Conditions and pay - are they always ethical and legal? Not so! Can we all start helping each other by buying from each other??? Next time you need a gift, bag or a bracelet, please consider it! Maid Closer is on a HAND MADE MISSION! Join in... ''A Token of Love ...Handmade Craft Gifts. We sell Jewellery, Accessories , SLS Free Soaps, Seasonal Clothing and more...''
Sets from ÂŁ10 Earrings from ÂŁ2.50 All made in Medway. (outlet opening in Medway in Autumn)
Small family-run company, lucky enough to be based in the splendid Kent countryside. Set up in the Jubilee year, Happy & Glorious brings you beautiful gifts and products for your home, with a thoroughly British twist. '' There are many wonderful things that we still need to import from around the world. But if we can create or grow it here, it's nice to keep it local''.
Porcelain bird tealight candle holder Made in London £14
Sage green 'Mondo' spot pure lambswool throw by Melin Tregwynt, made in Wales, £125
Clovelly Rosemary & Orange candle in tin Made in Devon, £7
''Unique handmade women's tops, dresses and bags. I also make all my items to order and if there's a particular item you would like in a different fabric or size, I am here to help!''
Bright orange rose printed linen cushion by Catherine Colebrook, Made in Cheltenham, £40
Beautiful aloha girls fabric bag, Made in Surrey. £20
White blouse, 'gypsy' style, £20, Made in Surrey.
Blue floral kaftan top, £20, Made in Surrey
Purple & beige tote bag, £20, Made in Surrey.
FASHION BY SISBOUTIQUE
HOLIDAY CHECK LIST Summer holidays are very exciting for everyone, but it can get quite stressful, especially for the person who is organizing the yearly family holiday. To make it easier for you, we have done the homework and made you a list of all the things you will need according to your holiday type‌ Enjoy the packing!:-)
ESSENTIALS - passports and it's photocopies - flight tickets printed - hotel documentation/house rental paperwork - currency and credit/debit cards, driving licence - airport transfer vouchers/car hire confirmation - holiday insurance documentation and ehic - travel adaptor and chargers - phone, camera, other gadgets - travel itinerary
TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN AND BABIES - nappies and wipes (plan for the delays as well) - adequate food supply and snacks - a change of clothes (also for the parents in case of spit ups), blanket - activities - favourite book and toy, DVD player, paper dolls, cuddly toy, triangle crayons (they don't roll off the table), notebook for drawing... - ziploc bags and earplugs - self sterilising bottles and milk powder dispenser - gro blind (blackout blind fits directly onto window glass using suckers, it folds into a travel bag)from John Lewis, Argos, Boots... - trunki - ride-on suitcase for kiddies
BEFORE YOU TRAVEL
- check passport validity - check/book holiday insurance and EHIC (European health insurance card) - check for visa - check for vaccinations - confirm details of travel arrangement to and from the airport - arrange car hire - order foreign currency
BEACH HOLIDAYS - sunglasses - suncream and after sun - book or magazine - camera/phone/tablet - bikinis, beach bag and beach towels - kaftan - flip flops...
TIP: Roll up, roll up, roll up... Roll every item that can be rolled, it acts like anticrease tactic. At your destination hang the garments in the steamy bathroom and give them couple of sharp shakes.
SCARVES Versatile travel accessory for any holiday -
CITY BREAK AND SHOPPING TRIP - pair of comfy flats and pair of heels for the evening (make sure they both go well with all your clothes) - mix and match items - 1 dressy outfit - travel size toiletries...
Saturday Night At The London Palladium was one of the earliest TV entertainment shows and it regularly thrilled audiences with a vast variety of stunningly exciting talents…talents which deserved recognition and applause.
What’s NOT on the box? This month, I have temporarily renamed, my column ‘What’s NOT On The Box?’ as I identify what’s missing from our TV screens.
Audiences today are no different. We still want variety. We still want to see something new and exciting. To echo what Simon Cowell repeatedly says during the Britain’s Got Talent auditions: “we want something we’ve never seen before”.
Unlike most other entertainment shows currently on TV, Britain’s Got Talent provides Saturday 7th June saw the end of the 8th series opportunities for more than just singers. It is performance platform for magicians, fire of the increasingly popular talent show Britain’ s Got Talent’. The final attracted over 10 million breathers, musicians, ventriloquists, artists, drag queens, and many many more weird and viewers, which got me thinking…why is this wonderful talents… show popular? Is it because it’s broadcast during prime-time Saturday nights? Or perhaps So, going back to my initial question ‘What’s because it’s hosted by presenting royalty Ant NOT On The Box?’ - the answer is a showcase and Dec. These factors certainly contribute to the show’s popularity, but I believe the majority of a bigger variety of talents which are given as much attention as singers. of the interest in the programme is generated by the fact that it’s essentially a variety show. Generally, diverse entertainment is missing from our TV screens. Most of the entertainment programmes on offer these days feature singers (and not always good singers at that!). Why is this? Perhaps it’s because singers (compared to other entertainers) require the fewest props; usually just a microphone, and occasionally a microphone stand). Don’t get me wrong, I’ve got nothing against singers. Singers are good, but there are so many people talents out there that people want to see. People enjoy variety!
OUTDOOR SWIMMING FAVERSHAM POOLS 33 metre Outdoor Pool with 1m, 3m & 5m diving boards. Adult swim (16 yrs onwards )£4.00 Fun Pool* with Rapids ride, Toddler’s Pool, Adult Peak Swim (24/7/14 - 3/9/14 9:30am Grassed area for picnics, Paved area, Cafeteria 3:30pm) & £5.00 Outside kiosk. Child swim (3 yrs - 15 yrs) £3.00 Child Peak Swim (24/7/14 - 3/9/14 9:30am 3:30pm £3.50 Child under 3 yrs Free Faversham Pools, Leslie Smith Drive, Faversham, Kent, ME13 8PW
POOL ADMISSIONS
STRAND LEISURE POOL AND Adults (16-year-olds and older) £4.70 Juniors (15-year-olds and younger) £2.90 PARK is one of Medway's most popular Seniors (60-year-olds and older) £2.90 Strand Leisure Pool and Park, Pier The main pool has six 25-metre lanes Approach Road, Gillingham, Kent ME7 1TT opening out into a large fun pool. And, running around the outside the main pool, is England's largest lazy river, which is 300m in circumference. FOR BRAVER SWIMMERS: There is also a circular children's paddling pool. outdoor attractions.
TONBRIDGE SWIMMING POOL Set in woodland, this freshwater, heated outdoor pool, 20m x 13.5m is now linked by a swim-through channel to three indoor pools Adult Member £4.00 Non Member £5.00 Concession Member £2.70 Non Member £3.40 Under 3s FREE Family (2 adults/2 children) Member £9.40 Non Member £11.80 Tonbridge Swimming Pool is situated just off Tonbridge High Street, TN9 1HR. Tonbridge Station is approximately a 10 minute walk through the High Street.
HOLBOROUGH LAKE at Nemes Academy
A clean, clear lake run by Nemes Watersport Academy. Friendly, family run facility with heated changing rooms and a free hot drink included in your £5 swim fee. No weed or algae issues and the visibility is superb in the silky water. Divers also use the lake, which ensures a free 'jacuzzi' as you swim over them. Clean and safe entry and exit area, with no mud or stones. Good atmosphere and lovely swimming! You will need a one-off swim assesment (£15) Diving & canoeing also available.
Please check the opening times with all establishments beforehand.
JULY IS A MONTH OF ICE CREAM First mentions of ICE CREAM date as far back as 400 BC, when Persians would pour grapejuice concentrate over snow and eat this as a treat. The Roman Emperor Nero (37–68 CE) had i ce brought from the mountains and combined it with fruit toppings. These were some early chilled delicacies. Ever since, we have seen endless recipes to perfect this wonderful creation.
Taywell now helps to satisfy the demand for supplying weight-conscious, dessert-loving ice cream - NOSH (No Sh ugar), a no added sugar ice cream and sorbet range.
World varieties include ais kacang, gelato, sorbet, sherbet, snow cones, popsicles, mellorine, kulfi, ice cream sandwich etc... What is your favourite ice cream flavour??? Do you prefer fruit or creamy ones? We take a look at multi awarding TAYWELL ICE CREAMS, based in Maidstone Road, Beltring.
Here are some of their amazing flavours: Bailey’s, Banoffee, Black Cherry & Chocolate, Cinnamon, Coconut, Coffee, Rum & Raisin, Turkish Delight... Sorbets: Apple, Blood Orange, Blueberry, Champagne, Cucumber, Lemon, Lychee , Mandarin Passion Fruit...
MAID CLOSER'S HOT TIP: Raspberr y sorbet-absolutely delicious! TAYWELL was created in 2006 by Alastair
Jessel. The thought behind the creation of Taywell was to utilise surplus fruit from his farm and turn it into something special. Passionate about ice cream, he was determined that his ice creams and sorbets should not contain any artificial additives, colours, stabilisers or bulking agents and the flavours were to be produced to their best taste rather than to a particular price.
Taywell Ice Creams has stock all over Kent, they will also deliver your ice cream or you can visit their kitchen in Beltring.
www.taywell.co.uk TAYWELL ICE CREAM is offering one of our readers FREE 2X 500ML TUBS OF ICE CREAM (winner's choice). To enter the competition simply like our facebook page in July. The winner will be picked at random on 26th of July.
GOOD LUCK.
FITNESS.... ''Mente sana in corpore sano'' “For both excessive and insufficient exercise destroy one's strength, and both eating and drinking too much or too little destroy health, whereas the right quantity produces, increases or preserves it. So it is the same with temperance, courage and the other virtues...� Aristotle
boost, stimulate & light up YOUR LIFE NOW! Physical activity does not have to necessarily be seen or done in a strenuous, methodically structurally, painful or boring way. Physical activities that you enjoy and look forward to and have fun are just as good to see and feel the health benefits that will follow. It is evident now more than ever both anecdotally since the end of time and now scientifically with hard facts that people of all ages who are inactive can improve their health, appearance and well being by increasing physical activity at a moderate intensity on a regular basis. Basically, the benefits are endless. Regular activity helps the cardiovascular system, decreases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, and regulates blood pressure, control weight and help to reduce excessive weight, increase bone and joint density, increase and/or maintain lean muscle mass. It also helps mentally in relieving anxiety and reducing symptoms of depression. The key to a saner and healthier body is physical activity done with balance on a regular basis and within your limits as they will grow with consistency and time. We are not going to be all Olympic champions or obsessively trapped with an intense regime of physical activity to improve our body and mental status. Everyone and I mean everyone will benefit from exercising. Older adults who exercise and perform strength exercises will increase bone density, meaning fewer chances of fractures and falling and more chances of being independent. Children should be encouraged by parents to plan outdoors events during weekends especially in summer time so everyone can be active. In teenagers with the spurt of their hormones blowing up from all the spores, exercise will increase their strength, build lean muscles and decrease body fat. Overweight people will benefit from exercise by burning excessive calories which will help to reduce their weight. People with physical disabilities will increase stamina and strength, along with a better psychological state, well being and quality of life, having the confidence to perform daily activities. We will next talk about ways of exercising safely for everyone. Notes about the author:
ALBERTO CONVERSANO is a qualified personal fitness instructor and nutritionist, with more than ten years in the field both theoretically and practically who helps and has helped several people from different backgrounds, physical skills set to improve themselves. Whether you are simply looking to be more active and eat better or are getting ready for your first sports event, he can help you achieve your goals, in a safe, secured and logical way to unlock the Rocky in you or your bootylicious sexiness.
albertconv@gmail.com - 07721184391
...NUTRITION Balance it! Nutrition is an important part of our body, giving us energy, healing and rejuvenating properties for our organs and calming the mind and soul, when the right foods are consumed.
Have you heard of yin and yang? Some people may claim not to believe in yin-yang, but in essence this principle describes all phenomena and processes that are observed easily into our lives: Active (yang) – Passive (yin): respectively examples are: day changing into night, youth into age, one season into next, hot and cold, outside and inside, mind and body, masculine and feminine, light and dark, expansion and contraction and so on.
The source of yin and yang, therefore of all dualities, is the one which is unified and unchanging. The yang principle is active while the yin is passive, yet is nothing purely yin or purely yang, therefore there will always be yin within yang and yang within yin. A balanced nutrition is the key to a better well being and health. Everything in creation is covered by bliss and supported by Earth. Understanding and applying the principle of yin and yang to nutrition can lead to a greater understanding of our external and inner body.
We live in a land of excesses where most of the food is refined, processed and served to us, ready to eat Processing and refining foods will strip most of the essential nurturing values and nutrients in it.
The question is obvious then: what do we need to eat for a better health, have a more active energy and overall feel better inside and look good on the outside? The answer is less complicated than what one thinks. Less processed and refined foods and more whole foods. Below is an example of conclusive nutrition:
COF
Condiments, Fats and Oils such as spices, ketchup, unrefined sweeteners, herbs, unrefined oils like olive oils, sesame oil, and flax oil.
PROTEIN FRUIT & VEG WHOLE GRAINS
Legumes, nuts, seeds, dairy products, eggs, fish, fowl, meats Root, starchy, leafy vegetables; all fruits; algae – seaweed, micro algae Oats, brown rice, brown pasta, brown noodles, corn, rye, barley, millet, grain sprouts, etc...
We will talk a bit more about nutrition, the healing properties of foods and how to eat better in summer time, giving that the sun is out and we are all excited running around energetically.
Off Beat...
SUMMER DETOX Summer is a wonderful time to start a detox diet. With the arrival of warm weather along with the availability of plentiful organic fresh fruit and vegetables, it is much easier to detoxify. Detoxification is a natural process that removes impurities from your body and leaves you feeling healthy and energized. After the detox process, people report feeling lighter in body, mind, and spirit. They also have clearer skin, weight loss, and a lessening or complete disappearance of bothersome symptoms such as sinusitis, digestive disorders, mood swings, fatigue, and high blood pressure.
FOCUS ON A FEW KEY ELEMENTS: 1. Super-healthy liquids to flush out the body while pouring in nutrients 2. Fibre to keep your gastrointestinal tract functioning optimally 3. Foods that energize while cleansing the liver, your body’s built-in detoxification centre
TRY ADDING THESES FOODS TO YOUR WEEKLY SHOPPING LIST:
Lemons - Parsley - Green leafy vegetables - Green tea- Fresh fruit Garlic
EASY WEEKEND DETOX. Try and start your detox days with yoga or streching exercises. Sip on lemon water to stimulate the bowels and detox the liver. Have a light breakfast of steamed vegetables, main goal of detoxing is to reduce inflammation. Choose a restorative activity. Do yoga or tai chi, listen to music, visit an art museum, whatever makes you feel soothed and nourished. Mix up a big dandelion salad. Sweat it out with a steam or sauna. Keep a journal about how you feeling. Eat a light dinner, another salad, followed by steamed spinach or greens, topped with cooked lentils or 1 tablespoon of raw nuts, and a dash of cayenne pepper. Have a quite evening.. Take your fibre. Sleep early! And don't forget to drink plenty of water!!!
REFINED SUGAR- YOUR FRIEND OR ENEMY? FOOD TRENDS Health experts warn that sugar levels need to be reduced by up to 30% to prevent the obesity epidemic from growing. Obesity and diabetes already cost the UK over ÂŁ5billion a year. Without regulation, these costs will exceed ÂŁ50billion by 2050. The maximum recommended sugar intake set out by the World Health Organisation is 10 teaspoons a day. On average, people in Britain are consuming 12 teaspoons a day, with some consuming as many as 46!
Sugar taken every day produces a continuously overacid condition and more and more minerals are required from deep in the body in the attempt to rectify the imbalance. Finally, in order to protect the blood, so much calcium is taken from the bones and teeth that decay and general weakening begins. Excess sugar eventually affects every organ in the body. Initially, it is stored in the liver in the form of glucose (glycogen). Since the liver's capacity is limited, a daily intake of refined sugar (above the required amount of natural sugar) soon makes the liver expand like a balloon. When the liver is filled to its maximum capacity, the excess glycogen is returned to the blood in the form of fatty acids. These are taken to every part of the body and stored in the most inactive areas: the belly, the buttocks, the breasts and the thighs.
So how do you protect yourself as well as your children?
REMEMBER 1 teaspoon of sugar has 4 grams of sugar. Based on that, a can of Coke has 7 teaspoons of sugar. 250ml smooth orange juice has 6 teaspoons of sugar Skinny hazelnut latte has 5 teaspoons of sugar Not so skinny... When these comparatively harmless places are completely filled, fatty acids are then So how does too much distributed among active organs, such as the sugar affect your body? heart and kidneys. These begin to slow down; finally their tissues degenerate and turn to fat Refined sugar is lethal when ingested by humans because it provides only that which The whole body is affected by their reduced nutritionists describe as "empty" or "naked" ability, and abnormal blood pressure is created. calories. It lacks the natural minerals which are The parasympathetic nervous system is present in the sugar beet or cane. affected. In addition, sugar is worse than nothing because The circulatory and lymphatic systems are it drains and leaches the body of precious invaded, quality of the red blood cells starts to vitamins and minerals through the demand its change... digestion, detoxification and elimination makes upon one's entire system. ...to be continued in your next issue.
What we didn't know...
The Beauty of Leeds Castle – A Personal Perspective
Driving through the entrance to the Castle sets your imagination alight – you are immediately struck by its vastne and the sheer beauty of it all – it quite takes your breath away! Even the peacocks have an air and elegance all t own – so haughty and regal, you are certainly left in no doubt as to who the visitors and who the residents are! N queuing for hours, organised and orderly parking – a great start to the day!
With our pre-booked, annual tickets, we stroll pass the tourists, who are obviously from all over the world and the children, so excited and impatient to get going - this, in itself, paints a very lively and interesting picture and remin when I first visited the Castle back in the 1980s with our then young children – who are now not quite so young! remember wistfully thinking how lovely it would be to live in such an idyllic village, a short walk to the Castle - ho strange that we are now exactly there! You truly never know what life holds for you!
One of our luxuries is to pack a picnic (including some wine of course!) and our chairs, kindle and music and head t Castle for a relaxing and leisurely visit. We have visited a few times but not as many as we would like, there is al something new to discover, a perfect spot to enjoy our picnic, views that are quite hard to describe – you really d to see it for yourself!
We have enjoyed a few of the many events so far, the classical music night, a fireworks display, Sense and Sensib the open air – Wow – just fabulous! We very much enjoy the Christmas events they put on, the music and gift id just excellent. We have not ventured in the maze but it’s on our list – don’t think we’ll ‘Go Ape’ now though! Wh grandchildren were quite young, we very much enjoyed taking them to the Easter Hunt – not sure who was more the Hunt – them or us! The awe and excitement on their faces was a joy to behold – so lovely to see things thro youngster’s eyes.
Of course, one of the many attractions is the tour inside the Castle with its rooms full of history and narrow wind corridors. The paintings and artefacts are quite stunning and, even if you only have a glancing interest in history, cannot but be amazed by the wealth of information every room holds. For the Purists – herewith some of what you learn and absorb on your visits to the Castle:
It is said that the Castle was originally the site of a manor of the Royal Saxon Family and for 300 years was the h Kings and Queens of England and the Castle is recorded in the Doomesday Book. It was Lord Conway who famously described it as the ‘loveliest Castle in the world.’ Throughout the years ahead, it falls into various h notably, between 1200-1300 Robert de Crevecoeur, who built the first stone Castle, to Edward I wife Margaret, sist the King of France, which begins the pattern of the Castle becoming part of the dower of the Queen of England being retained after their husbands die.
When Edward II grants the Castle to Bartholomew, 1st Lord of Badlesmere, he forgets to tell his wife Isabella and w she arrives seeking shelter is refused admission and the Royal party is fired upon by archers. The angry King besie the Castle and has Lord Badlesmere beheaded. Queen Isabella lived at Leeds Castle until her death. Further on between 1300 -1400, Richard II grants the Castle to his wife, Anne of Bohemia and when Richard II is deposed, he returns to the Castle disguised as a forester.
...Leeds Castle
Between 1400-1500, Henry IV grants the Castle to his second Queen, Joan of Navarre; the Castle then passes to th Archbishop of Canterbury. The King accuses Queen Joan, his Stepmother, of plotting his death and so imprisons h the Castle. When released, she spends the rest of her days there. At the age of 21, Catherine de Valois is granted Castle on the Kings death. After falling in love, and secretly marrying her clerk of the wardrobe, Owen Tudor, their romance is discovered and she is imprisoned but later released. They have a son who is the father of Henry VII.
Henry VI accuses his aunt, Eleanor Cobham, Duchess of Gloucester of witchcraft and she is imprisoned at the Cast Henry VIII transforms the Castle for his first Queen, Catherine of Aragon and it is reported that he famously left th Castle for his meeting with Francis I of France at the Field of the Cloth of Gold in 1520. During 1500-1600, Sir Anthony St Leger is granted the Castle for his conciliatory work in Ireland for Henry VIII. It is reported that Elizabeth I was imprisoned in the Castle for a while before her coronation.
Between 1600-1700, after being financially ruined by Sir Walter Raleigh’s El-Dorado expedition, Sir Anthony’s grandso ess Sir Warham is forced to sell the Castle to Sir Richard Smythe; they then sell it to Sir Thomas Culpeper of Hollingbo their in 1632. After his son Sir Cheney dies bankrupt, his second cousin , Thomas, 2nd Lord of Culpeper, buys the Castle No his wife’s (Margaret van Hesse) dowry. He leases part of the Castle to the government to detain French and Dutc prisoners who set their buildings on fire. Lord Culpeper leaves the Castle to go to America in 1680 and the Castle t becomes the property of Thomas, 5th Lord Fairfaix, the husband of the Lord’s daughter Catherine.
e In the 1700-1800s, Thomas’ brother, Robert Fairfax owns the Castle for 46 years, undertaking a programme of nds me improvements. The Castle eventually passes to the Rev. Dr Denny Martin and then General Philip Martin. I can ow During the 1800-1900s, the Castle is taken over by Feinnes Wykeham, who adds the name of his benefactor to bec Wykeham Martin and after completing a major rebuilding programme is reported to have spent over £33,995.
to the In 1924, due to crippling death duties, the Wykeham Martin’s are forced to sell the Castle and it is then bought by lways Honourable Mrs Wilson Filmer, later Olive, Lady Baillee and she completely restores the fabric and structure of the do have Castle. She is the longest living owner of the Castle and makes it one of the great houses of England and a centre lavish hospitality for leading politicians, ambassadors, international royalty and film stars.
bility in During World War II, the Castle plays an important role in a secret project developing weapons and safety systems deas are hosting VIP meetings including that between Field Marshal Montgomery and Sir Bertram Ramsay. hen our into When Lady Baillie dies in 1974, she bequeaths the Castle and the 500-acre park to the nation which is under the ough the trusteeship of the charitable Leeds Castle Foundation. The Castle, in 1978, again played another important role as host for the initial talks which culminated in the signing the Camp David Agreement – those attending were: Mr Mohammed Ibranim Karnel, General Moshe Dayan and Mr ding Cyrus Vance, the Foreign Ministers of Egypt, Israel and the Unites States of America. The Castle has gone on to h you some of the world’s most prestigious governmental meetings and international conferences, including the G8 Summit.
So, as you can see, there is so much to see and learn about home of the Castle and I for one am very happy and privileged to be one of the many visitors there and will remain in awe and hands, humbled by its magnificence and will continue to imagine ter of myself following the ghosts of all the Kings and Queens and who have walked before me.
Well, just packed our picnic, off for another visit – what joy! when eges
by Diana Gibbins, Leeds
CHICORY, FENNEL, PEA, ASPARAGUS & GOATS CHEESE SUMMER SALAD ''Extremely easy to prepare, with delicious fresh, summery flavours...!'' 1. Wash & separate chicory leaves & place them in a dish.
FOR SALAD:
Chicory Fennel Peas 3. Steam asparagus for 3-4 minutes and Asparagus Goats cheese add to the dish. 2. Wash fennel & slice it really thinly, place evenly all over the chicory.
4. Boil or steam peas for 3-4 minutes and 'sprinkle' over the dish.
FOR DRESSING:
Olive oil 5. Break goats cheese up over the salad. Raw unrefined apple cider vinegar Salt 6. Prepare dressing in a separate bowl - Pepper mix together olive oil, raw apple cider vinegar, salt & pepper and drizzle over the salad.
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ROCHESTER DICKEN'S FEST On 31st of May we went along to Rochester Dicken's Festival, an annual summer fest, the town was buzzing with people, local residents dressed in the era's costumes, orchestra band playing, local retailers liking the crowd. Weather & athmosphere were great and us, well simply enjoying the whole thing... To commemorate and celebrate the life of Charles Dickens, twice a year Dickens enthusiasts, strolling players, re-enactors, Dickensian 'characters', not to mention a few oddballs, join the public at this pre-summer 2 day celebration called Rochester Dicken's Festival. Charles Dickens was born in Portsmouth in 1812. In 1817 his family moved to Chatham where he took up a post in Royal Dockyard. Although young Charles moved to London along with the rest of the family in 1822, he had by that time developed a strong feeling of affection for the Medway area. In 1856, as an enormously successful and well-known author, he bought Gad’s Hill Place in Higham, just outside Rochester. Until his death in 1870, he became a familiar figure walking energetically around the Medway Towns. Medway was always a great source of inspiration to Dickens, and many of its famous buildings as well as its distinctive landscape occur in his work, both in his journalism and his novels. Dickens’ associations with Medway still bring many thousands of tourists to the area, who come to enjoy the festivals and see the sights that inspired him... Your next Dickens' event is: Dickensian
Christmas, 06-07/12/14
KIDS ARE OFF SCHOOL...THINGS TO DO...PLACES TO GO... CAFFEINE, WHAT REALY HAPPENS IN OUR BODIES... MORE ON SUGAR... PERFECT PUMPS & FLATS FOR EVERY OCCASSION... HAVE YOU JOINED OUR MISSION YET?... & MORE... YOUR AUGUST'S ISSUE OF MAID CLOSER IS OUT ON
26/07
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''We sell beautifully engraved Oak gifts, wedding favours and homeware. All our items are made to order and can be personalised. We only use English grown Oak and try to use reclaimed oak where possible, we're using some lovely old oak floorboards for our plant labels and keyrings at the moment.'' Personalised Oak Initial Hooks £22.95
Set of 5 Personalised Oak GIANT Plant Labels £24.99
Small Personalised Green Oak Doorstop £50.00