nsideKENT Magazine Issue 9 - Nov/Dec 2011

insideKENT FREE

NOV/DEC 2011

kent’s premier luxury lifestyle magazine

GIFTS GALORE

The best presents for everyone on your list

PARTY STYLE

Turn heads this season with our top picks for gorgeous formal wear

CHRISTMAS MARKETS The perfect way to spend a cold winter’s day

WIN OVER £1,500 IN PRIZES in the insideKENT Great Christmas Gift Giveaway

brad ++ ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS

In association with

THE ASTON MARTIN VIRAGE // SEVEN WONDERS OF CHRISTMAS // LOCAL NEWS AND BUSINESS // EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH JAMES & OLA JORDON OF STRICTLY COME DANCING // EATING OUT ON CHRISTMAS DAY // NEIL BUCHANAN’S HOPE STREET // ESCAPE TO OAKWOOD HOUSE // DINING PERFECTION AT THE MARQUIS // KENT EVENTS AND MUCH MORE

I was reading over my welcome letter from our 2010 Christmas issue and I’m happy to say that my statement, “...we’re looking forward to great things in 2011,” has definitely proved true, for both insideKENT Magazine and Kent as a whole.

System, a Paper Jamz Pro Guitar and Microphone, panto tickets, home décor, cinema vouchers, party wear and more. Check out the prizes and find out how to enter on p108.

2011 has seen the opening of two major arts venues: the new Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury and the Turner Contemporary in Margate. The Marlowe welcomed 1,200 visitors for its opening Gala Concert in October and has an impressive schedule of events for 2012 including Grease, the West End’s Legally Blonde the Musical and the award-winning Avenue Q.

I don’t know about you, but I truly enjoy Christmas shopping. I don’t mind braving the freezing temperatures and battling with throngs of deal-crazed shoppers - it’s all part of the spirit of Christmas. I realise many, if not most of you couldn’t disagree more, so we’ve searched high and low and have found some fantastic gifts for 2011. Our 16-page Christmas Gift Guide supplement includes gifts for her, gifts for him, gifts for kids and even stocking fillers - have a look on p35.

Jools Holland and Tracy Emin opened the doors to the Turner Contemporary in April, and in only three months the gallery had welcomed its 156,000th visitor - its 12-month target. The gallery is already doing great things for Margate and Kent, and as Emin said, it will be "a phoenix that will raise Margate out of the ashes."

On top of our festive Christmas extras, enjoy regular features such as Style and Fashion (p30), Health and Beauty (p51), Food and Drink (p72), Days Out (p82), Motoring (the incredible Aston Martin Virage, p104), Kent and London events (p122), and of course our cover story with one of the most famous names in film: Brad Pitt.

In our own little personal corner of Kent, the magazine’s team has grown, we’ve moved into a lovely oast house in the country and we’ve established new partnerships with some incredible Kent-based organisations including Demelza’s Music on the Hill and our newest partnership with the 2012 Taste of Kent Awards (p10).

From all of us at insideKENT Magazine and Sideways Media, we’d like to say a huge Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Eat, drink and be merry, take time to enjoy the little things, reflect on all the fabulousness that was 2011, and join us in looking forward to an incredible 2012!

We’ve also launched the very first edition of the insideKENT Restaurant Guide - your definitive guide to dining out in Kent. Grab your copy wherever you pick up insideKENT, or see it online at www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk/restaurantguide.

We’re sure 2012 will bring even greater things for insideKENT and the entire county, but for now, let’s talk Christmas.

How about waking up to find over £1,500 worth of gifts and goodies under your Christmas tree? One lucky insideKENT reader will be the winner of just that this season. Prizes include a spa day at Rowhill Grange, a luxury night at the ABode Canterbury, a Microlab Hi-Fi Audio

Donna Martin // Editor donna@sidewaysmedia.co.uk www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

www.facebook.com/insidekent www.twitter.com/insidekent

’s

2011 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

OVER £1,500 IN PRIZES IN THE GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFT GIVEAWAY! p108

A LUXURY SPA BREAK AT THE GARDEN OF ENGLAND SPA AT WALLETT’S COURT p17

DINNER AND A MOVIE FOR TWO p129

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KENT NEWS What's going on in the Garden of England

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NEIL BUCHANAN’S HOPE STREET An endearing picture of memory lane

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BUSINESS Wilkins Kennedy's Rob Reynolds on technical briefings

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FAMOUS KENT Famous names from the Garden of England

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LOCAL BUSINESS insideKENT interviews Gavin Oakley of Wallett’s Court

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EXPLORE KENT A Dickensian Christmas in Rochester

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BUSINESS Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce Business Awards

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LAPLAND UK Christmas enchantment

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PROPERTY The Arcadian, Margate

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SEVEN WONDERS OF CHRISTMAS The seven wonders of the Weald

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A WARM WINTER GLOW insideKENT’s top candle picks for the season

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DICKENS CHRISTMAS MARKET Get in the Christmas spirit

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STYLISHLY SUSTAINABLE Unusual and ethical gifts from Yours Sustainably

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SEW NOT STRAWBERRY JAM Creative textile workshops

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CHRISTMAS TREE DECORATING Top tips from ChristmasTimeUK

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TOWN SPOTLIGHT Spotlight on Canterbury

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WINTER FASHION & FORMAL WEAR Cold weather style and head-turning party wear

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OAKWOOD HOUSE HOTEL An impressive escape

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16-PAGE GIFT SUPPLEMENT insideKENT’s 2011 Christmas Gift Guide

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TRAVEL IN STYLE Samsonite luggage and accessories

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FEET FIRST & BODY MATTERS De-stress and relax with complimentary therapy

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A HASSLE-FREE WINTER BREAK Top tips from Holiday Extras

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A WEEK IN THE LIFE... of Plastic Surgeon John Davison

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CHRISTMAS MARKETS An ancient tradition

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WINTER RADIANCE with bareMinerals® cosmetics

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THE ASTON MARTIN VIRAGE Perfection is possible

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ANGELIC MAKEUP WITH A DEVILISH TWIST with makeup artist Gemma Morpurgo

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WIN OVER £1,500 IN PRIZES In the insideKENT Great Christmas Gift Giveaway

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NATURALLY INSPIRED BY KENT The Garden of England Spa at Wallett’s Court

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW with James & Ola Jordan of Strictly Come Dancing

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COVER STORY All I want for Christmas is Brad Pitt

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INSTANT ROCK STAR with the new Paper Jamz Pro Guitar and Mic

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PICTURE THIS... insideKENT reviews Canterbury’s Picture House Bar & Kitchen

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A SWINGIN’ CHRISTMAS with Kent-based band Goosebumps

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RECIPE WITH MICHAEL CAINES MBE Roast Partridge with Butternut Squash Fondant

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GADGETS The latest from HOTcraze

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DINING PERFECTION The Marquis at Alkham

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insideSPORTS with BBC Radio Kent’s Matt Davison

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A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS at The Secret Garden and Kent Cookery School

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HAPPILY EVER AFTER Shrek the Musical

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EATING OUT ON CHRISTMAS DAY Dine in style this Christmas

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LONDON EVENTS View London's top picks for winter fun in the city

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CHRISTMAS PUDDING ICE CREAM Simply Ice Cream’s most festive flavour

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KENT EVENTS What's happening in your neck of the woods

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EXPRESSIVE ART Street art at the Historic Dockyards Chatham

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10 BEST Christmas crackers

insideKENT The Oast, Stone Green Farm Mersham, Nr Ashford, Kent TN25 7HE 01233 469230 insidekent@sidewaysmedia.co.uk www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

Editor Donna Martin donna@sidewaysmedia.co.uk Publishing Director Adam Ready adam@sidewaysmedia.co.uk Design Manager Dave Leo Yogore Editorial Assistant Emma Bates Fashion Editor Molly Neznanski Gil Finance Manager Charlotte Ready Account Managers Greg Bettles Paul Martin Sarah Sullivan Contributors Lizzy Cline, Charlie O’Brien, Gemma Morpurgo, Luke Yates, Rachel Gold, Rob Reynolds, Matt Davison, View London, Helen Miller, Charlie Durban Photographers Luke Yates Jamie Dench Publisher

hello@sidewaysmedia.co.uk www.sidewaysmedia.co.uk

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

When you have finished with this magazine, please pass it on to a friend or recycle it.

© Copyright 2011. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publishers. Neither the publisher nor any other person associated with the production and publication of this magazine make any guarantees, warranties or claims as to the accuracy, currency or truthfulness of any of the contents of this magazine. No part of this magazine may be copied, reproduced or transmitted in any form without the publisher’s written consent. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited editorial, images or photographs published. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and the publisher takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. Publisher is not responsible for any variation in image colour due to printing processes.

Cover image © AP/Press Association Images

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NEWS

insideKENT PROUD TO BE A PART OF THE TASTE OF KENT AWARDS 2012 Taste of Kent Award Winners at awards ceremony, Leeds Castle 25 Feb 2011

Julie Monkman presenting at a previous Taste of Kent Awards

Kent’s most popular food and drink awards – the Taste of Kent Awards 2012 – got off to a tasty launch this autumn with hundreds of members of the public rushing to the dedicated online voting site www.tasteofkentawards.co.uk to vote for their favourite food and drink producers, retailers, restaurants, dining pubs and farmers’ markets. insideKENT is delighted to announce that they will be a media partner for the 2012 awards, alongside a brand new overall sponsor, Vertex Law, plus more than a dozen other sponsoring companies.

Local food and drink champions Produced in Kent are the brainchild behind the Taste of Kent Awards, which recognises the county’s food and drink heroes and provides the general public with a unique opportunity to hand pick the best of the best before the deadline of Tuesday 3 January 2012.

Following the initial consumer vote, the three finalists in each category will go forward to be judged by mystery shoppers, mystery diners and an expert judging panel.

Now in its eighth successful year, with the public vote continuing to grow year-on-year, four new categories have been introduced into the 2012 awards including the Produced in Kent Award which is designed to recognise the contribution of an individual or business to the Kent food and drink industry. There will also be the brand new AONB Food, Farming and Landscape Award which recognises the important contribution that farmers and food producers make to the quality of our landscape.

In addition, Produced in Kent has added two awards to reward food and drink producers and manufacturers supplying the retail and foodservice industries. The Kent Food Product – Retail and Kent Food Product – Foodservice categories are new business awards for which businesses nominate their product(s) – via the entry forms available at www.tasteofkentawards.co.uk – which will then be judged exclusively by a panel of judges in the New Year.

Talking about the county’s favourite and most prestigious awards, Julie Monkman, manager at Produced in Kent, said, “We are delighted to have the backing of Vertex Law as the overall sponsor this year, particularly with their expertise in the food and drink sector – with a further ten companies already signed up to support the individual award categories in the competition. We continue to innovate and develop the awards and are pleased to extend the reach of Taste of Kent Awards 2012 to new areas with the addition of new categories. The awards are seen as a benchmark of food and drink excellence in our county and for the talented companies that win an award, the accolades will act as a very real acknowledgement of our county’s food and drink heroes and a stamp of approval from Kent consumers.”

The Taste of Kent Awards have become a much sought after hallmark of quality, with some of the county’s leading companies keen to support and sponsor the 12 categories that make up the awards. This year Produced in Kent is already delighted to welcome sponsorship support from ANOB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), Barclays Bank, Biddenden Vineyards, Hadlow College, KCC (Kent County Council), Kent Life, kff (Kent Frozen Foods), Quex Park Estates, NFU Mutual, Opies, sff (Stephen’s Fresh Foods) and Visit Kent.

Now consumers can be part of the 2012 selection process and place their votes on the dedicated online voting website www.tasteofkentawards.co.uk.

Voters can place their nominations in one category, several, or all categories before the deadline of 3 January 2012. Alternatively, pick up a voting form at your nearest farmers’ market and post to Produced in Kent Ltd, Bourne Grange Stables, Tonbridge Road, Hadlow, Kent TN11 0AU.The final 12 winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony at a brand new venue to be revealed shortly.

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Trade-in and see the big picture for less Those seeking the ultimate viewing experience – including 3D – will find it easier than ever to achieve their goal thanks to the latest trade-in promotion from Bang & Olufsen retailers in Kent. For a limited time only, customers are invited to trade-in any television for superb reductions on selected BeoVision sets.

Simply trade-in any working television – no matter the age, brand or model – and customers will receive a minimum of £1,000 towards BeoVision 7, £700 against BeoVision 10-40 and 10-46, or £400 off BeoVision 10-32.

The offers, which are only available on televisions bought no later than 15th December, 2011, make BeoVision 7 and BeoVision 10 even more of an attractive proposition. Those who opt for the £1,000 trade-in on BeoVision 7 will certainly find that the offer has been lucky for them, customers enjoying the television’s incredible features at a price that represents unprecedented value.

Available in 32”, 40” and 55” screen sizes – the larger sizes in both 2D and 3D, the BeoVision 7 LCD ‘family’ of televisions are a pleasure to watch thanks to patented VisionClear technologies that provide amazing colour and contrast and Automatic Picture Control that continually adjusts picture brightness to compensate for your room’s changing conditions. Larger BeoVision 7 models come with built-in, Blu-ray DVD players, while a DVD player can be specified as an option on the conveniently-sized BeoVision 7-32. At the touch of a button, all BeoVision 7 can be rotated up to 70 degrees on motorised floor stands to provide the perfect viewing angle.

A ‘perfect 10’ in every sense, the BeoVision 10 ‘family’ of televisions raises the bar when it comes to fusing eye-catching design with impeccable performance.

Amazingly, the Full High Definition LED/LCD television has actually been designed to be hung on a wall with other artwork and its ability to blend into any environment is enhanced through its interchangeable speaker grille being available in a variety of colours, its slender frame finished in silver or black finishes, and an ultra-slim depth of only 6cm.

Of course, the beauty of BeoVision 10 is far from skin deep and customers will find it really is a ‘natural’ choice due to its use of 200/240Hz technology for superior picture performance and motion compensation for the life-like display of sporting and fast-moving action sequences.

Viewers who choose BeoVision 10 in its 32”, 40” and 46” sizes also enjoy phenomenal sound from an active two-way stereo loudspeaker and edge-lit LED backlighting to optimise contrast.

Bang & Olufsen of Kent believes that the trade-in opportunities could not have come at a better time.“With Christmas on its way, these offers mean that customers can see all their favourite films and programmes over the festive season in a whole new light, while being safe in the knowledge that they have bought their new Bang & Olufsen television at the best possible price,”.

“What’s more, in many cases we can add to the increased affordability of these sets with the availability of 0% interest-free credit, while there is also the possibility of a free home demonstration before purchase too.”

NEWS

CHARLIE’S CHAT Hello and hope you’ve had a wonderful autumn – especially the late unexpected burst of heat we enjoyed so much here in Kent. I certainly didn’t expect to be having a picnic at Leeds Castle during the first weekend of October!

straightforward interview, so we decided to put them all through their paces with the Heart Breakfast Show-biz Board (get the ‘show-biz’ bit? Don’t worry, James doesn’t either). It means we get to glean all sorts of information most of you wouldn’t know about our celeb guests.

Like the fact that Justin Lee Collins once got given a foot-long Subway for the price of a 6inch; Alan Titchmarsh’s best freebie was a packet of seeds; Myleene Klass’s daughter once wiped strawberries all over P Diddy’s yacht’s sofas; and Martin Clunes has Stephen Fry’s phone number. See, told you, you wouldn’t already know that stuff! We’re having lots of fun with it and our guests actually get pretty competitive over their position on the leaderboard – you can check it out on the Breakfast Show pages at heart.co.uk.

You may remember in my last column I mentioned my ’30 Before 30’ list. I can’t quite believe I’ve made this upcoming milestone so public, but I have, and my list is in full swing! It’s a list of 30 things I have to do before I turn 30. Number 26 on the list was to put a message in a bottle and throw it out to sea. Pretty standard you’d think?

Not when it involves me and James!

We’ve been busier than ever at the Heart studios with our celebrity guests, but with an added twist recently. James and I decided that our guests were getting off a little too lightly with just a

Another item on the list (number 14) was to do a show dressed in full eveningwear because we usually look so scruffy in the mornings (the beauty of radio). It just so happened that the day we were off to chuck our bottle into the East Kent sea, was also the day that I was in an evening dress, and James a full tuxedo. We didn’t look

at all strange hurling a bottle off a pier in gale force winds dressed up like a dog’s dinner. At the point of writing this we’ve still heard nothing back from the bottle. I really hope it turns up one day, and if you do happen to see it washed up somewhere on the Kent coast make sure you grab it – it’ll be worth your while!

Number 20 on the list is ‘learn to cook’ because I really am a basic pasta/stir fry kind of gal. Where better to learn than at the amazing Kent Cookery School at The Secret Garden near Ashford. Chef Carlton tasked us with cooking stuffed partridge with vegetable rossis, cooked beetroot and a poached egg. Being veggie I left the partridge to James, and was just about trusted to grate some vegetables! Oh, and I did learn to poach an egg properly! We even bumped into the insideKENT team during our visit (see p72) – any excuse for a free lunch, eh guys?!

Listen to Heart Breakfast with James and Charlie every weekday morning from 6am – 10am, or online at heart.co.uk

You can also become a Facebook fan – www.facebook.com/heartkent And follow Charlie on Twitter @charlie_radio

NOW OPEN! THE NEW MARLOWE THEATRE, CANTERBURY The new Marlowe Theatre was officially opened by HRH The Earl of Wessex on Tuesday 4th October with a Gala Concert celebrating the completion of a two year, £25.6 million project.

The Earl of Wessex, who is the Royal Patron of the New Marlowe Theatre Development Trust, was joined by an invited audience and members of the public who had won their tickets by public ballot, packing the 1200-seater auditorium.

The Earl said, “It has been an absolute pleasure and delight to have served as a Patron on this

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appeal and it has been a fantastic journey. I just want to thank everyone who supported it. You’ve now got this fantastic theatre and I hope you will use it and come back and support it time and time again.”

The theatre, in the heart of the medieval city, has been designed by the award-winning Keith Williams Architects and is one of the most significant current capital arts projects in the country. It has been completed on time and on budget and is set to give the South East a major cultural boost.

© Richard Bryant/Arcaidimages.com

NEWS

TURNER CONTEMPORARY WINS AWARD FOR THE BEST USE OF ARTS AND CULTURE IN REGENERATION AT THE REGENERATION & RENEWAL AWARDS 2011 At a ceremony in October, John Kampfner, Chair of Turner Contemporary, proudly accepted the Award for The Best use of Arts and Culture in Regeneration for the new gallery. The ceremony was held at the Lancaster Hotel in London and was hosted by BBC Newsnight economics editor Paul Mason. The awards celebrate regeneration projects that have improved places or communities, either economically, socially or environmentally.

The Regeneration and Renewal Awards are the most prestigious awards in the regeneration sector. Turner Contemporary has been selected for this coveted award due to their excellence in putting arts and culture at the heart of regeneration in Margate through the gallery and programme, and increasing participation in the arts among local residents. Since opening on 16th April, Turner Contemporary has welcomed over 240,000 visitors and their research has shown that:

• 85% of visitors said that their trip was made specifically to see the gallery, showing that the gallery is attracting visitors and income to the town that would not happen otherwise.

• Over the past 18 months 25 new businesses have opened up in Margate’s Old Town and the lower end of the High Street, reversing the national trend of high street decline.

• Southeastern report a 30% rise in the number of people using Margate railway station since the gallery opened in April.

Kent County Council Leader Paul Carter said, "These awards recognise the invaluable contribution that Kent County Council is making towards regenerating our coastal towns in east Kent. Turner Contemporary has been a huge success from day one, bringing many visitors who are discovering why the artist was inspired to paint in Thanet, and drawing newcomers to Margate for shopping, for business and to explore

the area's coastal attractions. I am delighted that we have received these accolades from Regeneration and Renewal. This shows that our vision and commitment to east Kent is paying dividends.”

Cllr. Bob Bayford, Leader of Thanet District Council, said, “I'm thrilled that Turner Contemporary have won this award. It's fantastic recognition of just how successful the gallery has been in its opening six months. Having a major art gallery in the town is having a truly positive effect bringing thousands of new visitors to the area and generating extra spend in the town.

The Old Town of Margate has was really buzzing over the summer, proving that arts-led regeneration really does work.” www.turnercontemporary.org

CHRISTMAS at Oakwood House Hotel

Get in the Christmas Spirit with some fantastic festive celebrations at Oak wood House Hotel.

Be transported to a Winter Wonderland with our party nights, or enjoy a family Sunday lunch with Father Christmas and end the year in style with our exquisite Masquerade Ball.

Bookings are now be taken. To see our full Christmas brochure visit our website today.

Private Festive Lunches Traditional Family Lunch 11th Dec

Private Festive Dinners New Year’s Eve Ball

Party Nights throughout Dec New Year’s Day Brunch

For further information, or to check availability, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Or join us in the New Year for some fantastic events Burn’s Night - Saturday 21st January or a romantic meal for Valentines - Saturday 11th & Tuesday 14th February

01622 620720 info@oakwoodhousehotel.co.uk www.oakwoodhousehotel.co.uk www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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BUSINESS

TECHNICAL BRIEFINGS HOW CAN A SMALL TRADING COMPANY ATTRACT INWARD INVESTMENT?

One of the difficulties facing many small businesses, particularly in the current economic climate, is how to raise finance. One option which may be available to these companies is to seek private investment, but how can a small company ensure that they are attractive to potential investors?

This article explores a possible answer to this important question.

Any small trading company meeting certain conditions can offer shares to investors which may qualify for the tax advantages available under Enterprise Investment Scheme (“EIS”) rules. This can make an investment in a small owner-managed company attractive to an individual investor who might not otherwise have considered the proposition due to the risk inherent in many small companies.

advance assurance from HMRC that the company should qualify for the scheme, and again Wilkins Kennedy would be happy to assist in securing any such assurance.

In approaching potential investors, it is important for business owners to understand why their offer might be attractive.

The headline tax reliefs for eligible investors are: • Income tax relief at 30% of the investment (increased from 20% from 6 April 2011). For example, a qualifying investor paying £10,000 for shares would have a reduction in their personal income tax liability of £3,000.

The main conditions which a company must meet in order to be a ‘qualifying company’ are as follows:

• No capital gains tax to pay on any eventual gain made on the disposal of the qualifying shares in the company by the investor.

• It must be an unquoted company.

• The ability to defer capital gains tax arising on disposals of unrelated chargeable assets sold within 3 years prior to or 12 months following investment in an Enterprise Investment Scheme.

• It must be a company carrying on a qualifying trade.

• The money raised must be used in an existing trade, or in preparing to carry on a trade, or in research and development where it is intended to lead to a qualifying trade being carried on.

• The money raised must be used within two years of the shares being issued to the investor(s) or within two years of the trade commencing if that is later.

Most trades are ‘qualifying’ trades, but there are a few activities which are deemed to be excluded for EIS purposes such as property development, and your Wilkins Kennedy advisor can clarify whether or not your particular company should be eligible for an Enterprise Investment Scheme.

• Generous loss relief provisions if the investment is ultimately unsuccessful.

It should be noted however that the specific rules relating to Enterprise Investment Schemes are detailed and complex and advice should always be sought if you are considering eligibility for the scheme as either a company seeking investment or as an investor. Your local Wilkins Kennedy advisor would be happy to assist you in this area.

For more information, please contact Rob Reynolds on 01233 629255 or rob.reynolds@wilkinskennedy.com

One of the attractions to potential investors seeking to invest in an EIS eligible company is that it is possible for that company to seek formal

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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LOCALBUSINESS

insideKENT interviews

GAVIN OAKLEY of

Wallett’s Court Country House Hotel, Restaurant & Spa

A SEVENTEENTH CENTURY JACOBEAN MANOR HOUSE, ROLLING ACRES OF LANDSCAPED GARDENS, SEVENTEEN INDIVIDUAL BEDROOMS AND A LUXURY SPA – ALL OF THIS AND MORE MAKE UP THE BEAUTIFUL WALLETT’S COURT IN THE HEART OF WHITE CLIFFS COUNTRY IN KENT. insideKENT caught up with owner Gavin Oakley to talk about what it’s really like to own a hotel, the best part of his job and its family history.

How long have you been in business?

Wallett's Court has evolved over the past 35 years from a derelict ruin of a manor house in 1976 when my folks bought the place to a family home offering simple bed and breakfast in the early 1980s. Then it became a restaurant with rooms when my Dad brought his Michelin star cooking down to Kent from his city restaurant in the 90s. At the turn of the Millennium I opened the spa at the hotel and since then the place has become a greatly loved and highly regarded institution in Kent.

What attracted you to Wallett's Court?

It's been my home since I was a boy. The place used to be part of a working farm and I used to love playing in the old hay barns as a kid and tearing ‘round the grounds of the manor house with my brother. Those barns now house fabulous bedrooms and the newly refurbished Garden of England Spa. Is owning a hotel/spa/restaurant as posh as it sounds?

Posh? I don't think so. We're a pretty down to earth family. I really was brought up in a barn when we were renovating the manor house! But, I do consider myself to be very fortunate to be looking after such a fabulous place as Wallett's Court. I'd love to think that I'm just taking care of it before I pass it on to the next generation of Oakleys.

What is a typical day like for you?

I also have The White Cliffs Hotel in the heart of the village of St Margaret's-at-Cliffe, and my day usually starts there at 7am with a good strong cup of coffee and a chat with the team on duty and the guests having breakfast.

Once the The White Cliffs Hotel is up and running for the day I'll head up to Wallett's Court for a catch-up with the team there.

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Throughout the morning I'll work on seasonal menus at both hotels with the chefs, discuss the ever increasing list of fabulous spa treatments with the therapists, look at wines and upcoming functions, weddings and parties with the restaurant manager and get around the bedrooms and catch up with the hard-working housekeeping team.

The afternoons are a time when I get to indulge my passion for the great outdoors, I'll take a swim in the Bay at St. Margaret's, or I'll go for a run along the stunning cliff top paths to Dover and back.

Most evenings I'm back in to the hotels to keep an eye on the dinner service and ensure everyone is having a great time. After that I'll wind down by writing the White Cliffs Hotel and Wallett's Court blogs or Tweet about the day’s events or update our Facebook pages.

Running hotels is not a nine 'til five affair; it takes a lot of energy and commitment to keep ahead of the game. The hotels are open for 363 days of the year and are always operating 24/7.

It's all good fun, but it's a hell of a ride sometimes.

What's the best part of your job?

Seeing the guests' happy faces, feeling the buzz of the warm atmosphere on a busy night at the hotels and knowing that you're part of something really special.

What's your favourite dish at the Wallett's Court Restaurant?

That's a tricky one, whenever I come to dine in either of the restaurants (which is not often enough!) whether it's the restaurant at Wallett's Court or The Bay Restaurant at The White Cliffs Hotel, I always spend an age deciding which dish to choose as I love it all.

At Wallett’s Court, I'd have to say the Kentish Venison with Celeriac Fondue, Red Cabbage purée and Dauphinoise Potatoes with Juniper & Port jus is the dish that I'd choose at the moment.

In the Bay Restaurant at The White Cliffs Hotel, it would have to be The St. Margaret's Bay Lobster, fresh off the boat at the bay, simply

split and grilled with garlic butter and served with chips.

What are some of your favourite places to visit in Kent?

For a little culture, I recently went to the opening of The Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury. Now, that place is stunning and it has a fabulous programme of events coming up! For history, Dover Castle is a great day out with the kids and right on our doorstep. For nature, St. Margaret's Bay is quite simply the most beautiful bay in Kent.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of going into the hospitality business?

Treat hospitality as a way of life, not just a job.

It is also important to make sure that your life is not all work and no play. When I see CVs for job applications I love to see what candidates get up to in their leisure time. If you stand out from the crowd, let your prospective employer know all about it!

What is the best decision you've made in your business, and the single worst?

The best decision was opening The White Cliffs Hotel as a 'baby brother' to Wallett's Court in 2008.

And the worst... Many would say buying a second hotel and running two hotels during the deepest recession this country/the world has seen in decades!

But I'd have to disagree. It has been challenging but at the same time it has been enormously rewarding to see both hotels flourish and become beacons of hope to others at a time when the economic gloom seems to be endless.

When my folks bought the ruin that was Wallett's Court in 1976, the estate agent said “Anyone buying this must be mad!” - he was right back then and that quote still rings true a generation later.

COMPETITION

WIN A LUXURY SPA

BREAK AT WALLETT’S COURT

Luxury 4-star Wallett’s Court Country House Hotel and the fabulous Garden of England Spa, set in countryside on the stunning cliff tops of Dover, is offering one lucky insideKENT reader the chance to win a one-night spa break for two.

The prize includes a night in a classic double or twin room, a full English breakfast and a delicious three-course dinner prepared by award-winning head chef Ryan Tasker in the beautiful manor house restaurant. The prize also includes a fabulous 30-minute spa treatment in the newly refurbished Garden of England Spa at Wallett's Court each, and full use of the indoor heated swimming pool, sauna, steam room and hydrotherapy pool.

Wallett’s Court is a beautiful grade two listed Jacobean manor house with 17 bedrooms, nestled in seven acres of rolling landscaped gardens in the heart of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty– the perfect rural retreat.

For your chance to win this fabulous escape to the White Cliffs Country to enjoy the fresh sea

air and tranquillity, simply answer the question below and enter online at www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk/wallettscourt:

To find out more or to book your own break, call 01304 852424 or visit www.wallettscourthotelspa.com

Where in Kent is the Garden of England Spa at Wallett's Court located?

Terms & Conditions Prize is subject to availability and is valid from Sunday to Thursday, excluding Bank Holidays. Prize must be taken by 30 April 2012.

See full T&C at www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk/wallettscourt

a) Canterbury b) St. Margaret's-at-Cliffe c) Sevenoaks

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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BUSINESS

KENT INVICTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS AWARDS 2012

HAS YOUR BUSINESS ACHIEVED GREAT THINGS THIS YEAR? DON’T KEEP IT A SECRET! Get the recognition you deserve by entering the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce ‘Excellence in Business’ Awards 2012.

The awards, in five categories, are open to all businesses in the Kent Invicta Chamber areas of Ashford, Canterbury, Maidstone, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Malling, and Tunbridge Wells.

Kent Invicta Chamber instituted the awards in 2006 in order to give recognition to the excellence in business practice which abounds in the area, and have become established as one of the premier business awards in the south east.

“We have a wealth of thriving and diverse business in Kent,” says Mrs Jo James, Chamber Chief Executive. “All of them providing excellent service in their particular field, we believe this commercial success should be recognised.

“We should all be proud of what Kent businesses achieve, and the Chamber Awards were created to reflect this. We hope the awards go some way towards highlighting the ‘Excellence in Business’ that our companies provide and emphasising our region’s contribution to the economy.”

The five categories in the 2012 Chamber Awards, with awards for winners and two finalists in each, are: • Business of the Year • Most Promising New Business • Excellence In Customer Service • Excellence In People Development • Entrepreneur of the Year The winners of the Chamber Awards will be announced at a gala dinner to be held in March 2012.

Apart from the individual awards sponsorship, aspects of the awards are sponsored by other companies and by Ashford Borough Council, Canterbury City Council and Maidstone Borough Council.

“Businesses in our area have shown amazing resilience in the face of recent extremely difficult trading conditions,” says Jo James, “proving that ‘Excellence in Business’ is something that we have in abundance.

“You all have a lot to be proud of, so don’t be shy about it; enter the awards and we will give the opportunity to shout about it!”

Entering the awards can: • Show your clients, customers and competitors how successful you are • Provide invaluable promotion opportunities • Be a powerful PR and marketing tool • Give you recognition throughout Kent • Boost staff morale and further recruitment • Give you an engraved glass trophy for display purposes Entry into the Chamber Awards automatically generates entry in the KEIBA Awards (sponsored by KCC and the Kent Messenger Group), and the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Business Awards. Over the last three years many of the Chamber Awards entries have enjoyed success in these other prestigious awards. Winners in the BCC regional awards go on to the national final, where success is awarded with a prize of £25,000.

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For full details of the Kent Invicta Chamber Business Awards, and to download application forms, visit www.kentinvictachamber.co.uk and click on the ‘Enter Business Awards 2012’ button on the home page, or contact the Chamber on 01233 503838 or events@kentinvictachamber.co.uk.

ANN WIDDECOMBE’S PANTO DEBUT

Ann Widdecombe is set to make her panto debut when Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs arrives at The Orchard, Dartford, between Friday 9 December and Saturday 31 December.

The retired MP will be starring in the magical pantomime as ‘Widdy In Waiting’, joining up with the ‘Wicked Queen’ played by Craig Revel Horwood, and no doubt Ann will be recreating some of the banter which occurred when Craig was judging her dancing so harshly on last year's Strictly Come Dancing!

Be prepared to boo and hiss all night in this spell binding pantomime which contains dazzling costumes and stunning sets, making Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs the ideal way to celebrate the festive season together.

More than 20,000 tickets have already been sold and with a limited run of only three weeks, there is not long left to book your family tickets.

Tickets start from £19.50 and can be booked by visiting www.orchardtheatre.co.uk or by calling the Ticket Office on 01322 220000.

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Image © J. Perugia.

Making Winter More Eventful With an action-packed programme of seasonal events, there’s no better time to visit Dover Castle.

From Christmas stories in the Great Tower to fascinating tours of Dover Castle’s unique defences, enjoy great family days out to warm your winter spirits!

TGA.7037.010911

For more information visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/events or call 0870 333 1181

Visit our showroom to see our displays of Sandstone, Limestone, Granite & Slate

Visit our Showroom Stone Court, Stone Way, Lakesview Business Park, Hersden, Kent CT3 4GP

Opening Hours Monday - Friday 7.30am - 5pm Saturday 8am - 1pm Sunday Closed Tel: 01277 713832 enquiries@ukstoneimports.com

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Natural Stone Paving, Patio, Driveway and Landscaping Products • Internal flooring available • Supply to both the private and commercial markets • Professional advice • Huge selection of products in stock • Nationwide delivery service • Laying service available

PROPERTY

ROOMS WITH A VIEW:

the arcadian, margate RENTAL APARTMENTS CLOSE TO TURNER GALLERY SHARE ‘THE LOVELIEST SKIES IN ALL EUROPE’

The views inspired JMW Turner to declare, ‘These are the loveliest skies in all Europe,’ and the release of rental apartments in one of Margate’s grandest seafront buildings invites a new generation to sample the Kent seaside town’s cultural revival.

Standing just above David Chipperfield’s iconic Turner Contemporary, The Arcadian building sits opposite the £17million gallery and enjoys the same elevated panoramas of Margate’s famous seascape.

“You can see why Turner was so captivated by this coastline and why it inspired him to paint his masterpieces,” says The Arcadian’s developer Geoffrey Berger. “The light constantly changes and the views stretch for miles.”

Turner aside, The Arcadian is a tasteful conversion comprising 14 one and two bedroom apartments.

Built in the late 1800s it was originally Lilley’s Hotel Arcadian, a 19th century bolt hole for genteel Victorians leaving smog-ridden London for Margate’s fresh sea air.

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This Victorian character and history is preserved by the development’s careful replica of The Arcadian’s wrought iron balcony and hotel signage.

Inside, the well-presented apartments are spacious, with Victorian high ceilings and large, panoramic windows. The internal finish includes hand-fitted kitchens and solid wood worktops, while some apartments have private balconies and all are Sky + ready.

Outside, the seafront and Margate’s golden Main Sands are a short stroll down Fort Hill with the Turner Contemporary to the right, Margate’s historic Old Town to the left. In summer this continental-style piazza hosts a growing calendar of events including a Jazz Festival in July.

Since 2010, high-speed train services from London St Pancras make the city-to-coast commute a feasible 90 minutes, and together with the opening of the Turner Contemporary, are shifting the seaside town’s personality.

outiques, private galleries and cafés opening in the Old Town quarter have drawn comparisons to a ‘mini-Brighton’ on the Kent coast, while plans to re-open Dreamland as the UK’s first heritage theme park in 2013 will see the town gain a second major attraction.

This multi-million pound investment completes a picture begun by Turner and ensures those moving to Margate discover a more refined ‘jewel of the Kent coast.’

Available furnished or unfurnished, one bedroom apartments start from £450 pcm, two bedroom apartments from £550 pcm.

For more details on The Arcadian development contact Gareth Martin at Newspace on 020 7613 3121 or gareth@newspaceuk.com.

HOME+GARDEN

A Warm Winter Glow

NOTHING SAYS CHRISTMAS LIKE COSY FIRES AND THE GLOW OF CANDLELIGHT. ADD A STYLISH AND INVITING AMBIANCE TO YOUR ROOMS WITH ANY OF OUR TOP CANDLE PICKS FOR THE SEASON. Assorted ‘Chocolate’ Father Christmas Candles from £11, www.berryred.co.uk

Xmas Candle Stand £33, www.driftliving.co.uk Mercury Silvered Tealight £5.50, www.nordichouse.co.uk

Funky Metallic Pear Candles £4.99, www.tch.net

Black Toast Christmas Candle In A Tin £9.95, www.emmabridgewater.co.uk Noel Cream Metal Tea Light Holders £14, www.berryred.co.uk

Nickel Snowflake Tealight Holder £6.50, www.retreat-home.com

Coral Beeswax Candle £16, www.fairwindonline.com

Frosted Mini Cone Tea Light Holder £6.99, www.tch.net Set of Lanterns £49.95, www.veryfabulous.com

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HOME+GARDEN

stylishly sustainable Kent-based online shop, YOURS SUSTAINABLY, has adopted a philosophy of ‘happiness held is the seed, happiness shared is the flower’. They invite their customers to be part of a shared vision of producers, suppliers and consumers being jointly responsible for creating and buying ethical products.

Yours Sustainably provides unusual gift items perfect for Christmas, such as jewellery made from recycled PET plastic bottles and placemats made from recycled coffee cups, while also giving the consumer an insight into the production methods, locations and people involved in the manufacturing of each unique item.

Flipback Notebook and Pen This flipback notebook with inside pocket is made from recycled paper and has a 100% organic cotton cover. The pen is made from sustainable timber. Perfect for popping in a handbag or makes a great gift for a note-taking traveler. £12

The Nightlife Of Trees An exquisite handbound, screen-printed book of art and folklore on trees by three of the finest living artists of the Gond tribal art tradition of central India. Made by independent publishers, Tara Books, they use handmade paper combining cotton cloth waste and tree bark, rice husk or grass. £28

Weekly Planner Made from recycled coffee cups this simple chalkboard and clock combination provides a stylish and fun way to make notes and plan the week ahead. A perfect gift for any friend or family member. Size: 220x380mm. £32

Hand-painted Jug This metal jug is hand-painted by artisans in Kashmir. The charming bird motif and bright Indian colours will brighten up any table or kitchen, great for serving drinks or displaying flowers. Made from food safe stainless steel. Size: 19x13.5cm. £26

Placemat and Coaster Combo Made from recycled coffee cups these placemats cleverly contain their own coaster. Easy to store and stylish on the table, they are ideal for anyone who enjoys entertaining.

Size: placemat 230mm diameter, coaster 98mm diameter. £32

For these stylish and sustainable gifts and many more, visit www.yourssustainably.com 26

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No 1

SBI Verandas & Security Shutters

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Our service is delivered to you by our team of skilled technicians using the most up to date commercial steam cleaners available. Killing 99% of bacteria we provide a spotless and professional clean. With very little need for the use of chemicals we are proud to be doing our bit for the environment too.

Cleaning services offered: Washrooms & wetrooms // Swimming pool areas Hot tubs & saunas // Floor & wall tiles // Builders & sparkle cleans

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For all other services phone or email

01233 469235 / 07799 498613 enquiries@positivecleaning.co.uk

No 3

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V

HOME+GARDEN

Top Tips for Decorating your CHRISTMAS TREE

ChristmasTimeUK ARE THE LEADING EXPERTS WHEN IT COMES TO EVERYTHING CHRISTMASSY. THEY ARE THE LARGEST INDEPENDENT SUPPLIER OF CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS IN THE UK, AND THEIR EXTENSIVE PRODUCT RANGE AND CREATIVE STYLE HAVE GIVEN THEM THE OPPORTUNITY TO SUPPLY THE FILM AND TV INDUSTRY INCLUDING SHOWS SUCH AS KIRSTIE AND PHIL’S PERFECT CHRISTMAS, GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS SMASHED AND EVEN DOCTOR WHO.

So who better than ChristmasTimeUK to give us some top tips for decorating our trees this season?

1. Be it real or artificial, ensure the Christmas tree you choose has full green foliage, and take your time to arrange the branches prior to decorating.

6. Wrap the ribbon or cord from your baubles and hanging decorations around the branches to keep them tight to the tree.

2. Check your lights to make sure they work before positioning them on the tree. Then place them on the tree starting at the top and work your way down. Look at your tree with the lights switched on and off to make sure you are happy with their positioning. As a rough guide, you should use an average of 30 lights per foot of tree.

7. Be bold and place a few oversized decorations on your tree; it really helps to give it that extra dimension as well as fill those few empty spaces.

3. Next, choose your colour scheme. Three colours work well, with one being an accent colour.

4. As a general rule, allow 10 decorations per foot of tree.

5. For each decoration, always work in odd numbers of three, five or seven to help create a designer look.

8. Instead of tinsel this Christmas, why not use pretty lengths of ribbon or decorative garlands in one of your chosen colours to enhance your tree?

9. When it comes to tree toppers, be inventive! There’s so much more to choose from than the usual star or fairy. Why not make your tree more personal by designing your own, using wired ribbon or flowers.

10. Lastly, enjoy yourself – it’s Christmas!

ChristmasTimeUK’s huge range of Christmas decorations and fairy lights are the most comprehensive you will find online and everything is available for immediate delivery. Sourced from all over the world, their unique collection of high quality decorations suits every budget and taste. www.christmastimeuk.com

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STYLE

THECOLDSHOULDER

GIVE GREY DAYS THE COLD SHOULDER AND FLAUNT YOUR LOVE FOR THE COLD! CELEBRATE THE CHILL IN CREATIVE COMBINATIONS OF EFFORTLESS LAYERING, UNEXPECTED COLOURS AND PATTERNS, COSY MATERIALS AND RICHLY DETAILED ACCESSORIES. Bow Blouse £28, M&Co

AGATA, Ted Baker

Military Coat £75, Marisota

Grandfather Clock Collar £15, Accessorize

Pied a Terre, Red ‘Miami’ Tote £225, House of Fraser Dogtooth Skirt £35, Next

Ellos Sweater Dress Blue £19, La Redoute

Brown Oversized Knit Jumper, Apricot

Patent Bow Ballerinas £25, Next

Zigzag Multi Colour Print Leggings £12.99, Pilot

Firetrap Black Stretch Jeggings £60, Next

Mud Boots £49, Head Over Heels

Saturn Metal Statement Ring £7, Accessorize

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Albione Shoes £130, Pied a Terre

Roksanda Ilincic Edition Fur Gilet £99, Debenhams

Retro Black Stud £8, Accessorize

Brown Leather Wrap Around Skirt £85, La Redoute

DE Jumper £22, Bonmarché

Jasmine Simple Stone Ring £10, Accessorize Knee High Block Heel Boots £85, Next

Black Leather Wrap Around Skirt £85, La Redoute Black Knee Boot £165, Isme

Leather Gloves £16, Next

Two Tone Box Bag £26, Dunnes Stores

Bouncing Bunnies Jumper £40, Asos.com Katy Cocoon Coat £89, Marks & Spencer

Orange Colour Block Knit Dress £39.50, Marks & Spencer

Black Leggings £9.99, Pilot

Suede Ankle Boot £55, Dunnes Stores

Brooklyn Knit Skirt £49.95, White Stuff

Love fashion? Follow our Fashion Editor Molly Neznanski Gil on Twitter @lolachiffon www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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STYLE

LIGHT UP THE ROOM: CHRISTMAS FORMALWEAR

BE THE WOMAN WHO STOPS MUSIC, TURNS HEADS, CATCHES BREATH, AND SINGLE-HANDEDLY MAKES THE EVENING MORE SPECIAL, JUST BY WALKING INTO THE ROOM. RI Roksanda Ilincic Tara Dress, Debenhams

Box Bag £30, Next

York Dress £64.99, Fever

Sophia Glitterball Clutch £35, Accessorize 30th Anniversary Kings Bow Court Shoe Chocolate Black £179, Hobbs

Faith Lynette £55, Debenhams

Striped sequin dress £99, M & Co

Boyfriend Jacket £99, Mint Velvet

Glee £99, Dune

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Billion Dollar Baby Dress £165, 20thcenturyfoxy.com

Tango Geometric Chandlier Earrings £57, Martine Wester

Knotted Front Sandal Black £19.99, Internacionale

Crystal Chandelier Earrings £114, Martine Wester

Emerald Green Dress £45, It’s Vintage Darling

Lille Case Clutch £35, Monsoon/Accessorize

Geometric Colour Block Sleeveless Dress with Skirt in Black £19.99, Pilot

EMIS, Ted Baker

Voyage £85, Dune Velocity £85, Dune

Red Satin Court £29.99, Tamaris

Love fashion? Follow our Fashion Editor Molly Neznanski Gil on Twitter @lolachiffon

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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STYLE

THE MINEFIELD OF FORMAL EVENINGWEAR:

GET THE ‘SHAKEN NOT STIRRED’ LOOK THIS CHRISTMAS Hello guys, it’s that time again! The party season is bearing down on us.

This can be such a tricky time of year for fashion as with the cold weather and Christmas trees comes a need to dress formally for one event or another. Here are a few pointers which I hope will be of great use to help you look your best.

BLACK TIE VS. WHITE TIE If you are going to a black tie event, it means a dinner jacket (tuxedo) and a black bow tie with a white shirt.

A white tie event is even more formal; be it a State dinner or a very formal ball, or maybe a hunt ball. The attire is a black (dress coat) tailcoat with a white bow tie, white waistcoat and a white wing collar shirt with black trousers.

If you have been invited to a black tie event, DO make the effort to wear a tuxedo rather than just flinging on a dark suit!

© www.polistas.com

RENT VS. BUY I think it makes more sense to rent unless you go to lots of events and balls, as that way you can get the latest on-trend styles. Formalwear shop staff will also advise you on what suits you most, and it takes away the problem of ‘have I got it right’?

© www.tysonsadlo.com

FROM OFFICE TO EVENING PARTY – WHAT TO WEAR I was at Polistas in Shepherds Market in Mayfair the other day having a riffle through their latest brands, and one thing I found which I love is the shirt with a cool design or floral design on the inside of the collar and the cuff.

Although it’s nothing new as Paul Smith has been doing it for years, I think it’s brilliant. I know you may not be able to get away with it all year round, but during the party season it could be very handy.

During the day you do up the top button and wear your tie, then in the evening take of the tie, undo a few buttons, turn up the cuffs and suddenly transform your business look to a less formal, yet still smart shirt with slacks effect.

SOME OF MY FAVOURITES Polistas Paul Smith Thomas Pink Ted Baker

© www.tysonsadlo.com

ANOTHER TIP FOR SMART EVENING PARTY WEAR A crisp, slim-fit white shirt is always a great option for office to party, and then party to office if need be! Some options are to choose an unusual shape collar or wear some smart cufflinks to add a more formal look. Worn with a navy or black skinny tie, this is a very contemporary yet smart look.

Some collars to consider are round or club collar and tab collars.

Thomas Pink has a very informative site with some great tips and advice: www.thomaspink.com.

Also if you want to learn what shape collar suits your face have a look at www.mens-fashion-tips.com.

Have fun, enjoy the season and above all be stylish!

To book your style consultation with Rachel Gold, contact her on 07766 838731, info@wardrobejunkies.com or visit her website www.wardrobejunkies.com

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’s

2011 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

Cable Knit Arm Warmers £25 www.forherfromyou.co.uk

Le Creuset Mini Casseroles, 4 for £45 Fenwick of Canterbury Bomb Cosmetics Luxury Assorted Ballotin Gift Set £9.99 www.bombcosmetics.co.uk

GIFTS FOR HER Celestial Spa Retreat Robe Set £60 www.celestialspa.co.uk

Labyrinth4D £24.95 Fenwick of Canterbury

Luxury Gift of the Year Patek Philippe Ladies Nautilus Watch £22,070, G Collins and Sons, Royal Tunbridge Wells, www.gcollinsandsons.com

iPod Touch, from £169 www.store.apple.com/uk

Gift Voucher for Reflexology, Swedish Massage, Aromatherapy or Indian Head Massage www.feetfirstbodymatters.co.uk

Millbrook Bespoke Gift Hampers, various prices www.millbrookgardencentre.co.uk

Double Walled Ceramic Travel Mug £9.99 www.millbrookgardencentre.co.uk

Personalised ‘Our Family’ Calendar £14.99 www.gettingpersonal.co.uk

Makulu Wine – Mixed Case £59.99

Kenneth Turner Glacier Vase £120 www.kennethturner.com

Portable Digital Photo Album £121.98 www.HOTcraze.co.uk

Handcrafted Sterling Silver Ring with Amethyst £215 www.bylukegoldsmith.co.uk

Comedy Movie Night In Gift Hamper £26.99 www.ayedo.co.uk

BeoSound 8 Speaker Dock from £900 www.bang-olufsen.co.uk London Bridge Scarf by Sally Weatherill £65 www.seekandadore.com

GIFTS FOR HIM The Bluebeards Revenge Starter Pack £35 www.bluebeards-revenge.co.uk

Double Fingerprint Cufflinks £140 www.boutiquetoyou.co.uk

Luxury Gift of the Year Patek Philippe Nautilus Chronograph Watch £34,460 G Collins and Sons, Royal Tunbridge Wells www.gcollinsandsons.com

Vertical Rabbit Corkscrew, £59 Fenwick of Canterbury

Chambrer Draft Beer Dispenser £119.99 www.drinkstuff.com

Xbox 360 with Kinect & Kinect Adventures £269.99 www.amazon.co.uk

Kent Cricket Money Clip £18 www.fitzgeraldjewellers.co.uk Stag Wine Stopper £18 www.kennethturner.com

BeoCom 2 Telephone from £700 www.bang-olufsen.com

The Chocoholics Pizza – Ultimately Orange £16.99 www.gettingpersonal.co.uk

L’Eau d’Issey Pour Homme Intense £37.50 www.theperfumeshop.com Swissgear Mythos 15.4-inch Laptop Backpack £39.99 www.amazon.co.uk

iPad 2, from £399 www.store.apple.com/uk

Air Swimmers £39.99 www.firebox.com

Dotty Notebooks £5 www.fairwindonline.com

Food Face Plate £7.99 www.drinkstuff.com

Addictaball Large Maze £12.99 www.thepresentfinder.co.uk

GIFTS FOR KIDS Adopt a Reindeer £19.99 www.gettingpersonal.co.uk

LEGO® Star Wars™ Character Encyclopedia £15 www.dk.co.uk Tutu Dress – Pick Your Own Colours £29 www.giftwrappedandgorgeous.com

Snowball Blaster £27.50 www.thepresentfinder.co.uk

Rocko Snow Tube £34.99 www.thepresentfinder.co.uk

Vortex Air Hockey £599 www.conranshop.co.uk

HEALTH+BEAUTY

FEET FIRST

and Body Matters

by Charlie O’Brien

WHY NOT ASSIST YOUR BODY’S NATURAL HEALING THROUGH HOLISTIC TREATMENTS?

© Ross Meek Photography

THE MINUTE YOU ARRIVE AT SUNFLOWERS IN STODMARSH JUST OUTSIDE CANTERBURY YOU START TO FEEL DE-STRESSED AND RELAXED. SARAH STAFFORD-SKINNER SET UP FEET FIRST AND BODY MATTERS, THE COMPLIMENTARY THERAPY BUSINESS, IN HER HOME IN THE RURAL KENT VILLAGE JUST OVER A YEAR AGO – OPTING TO LEAVE THE STRESSES AND STRAINS OF THE CORPORATE WORLD BEHIND AND FOLLOW HER DREAMS AND BELIEFS INSTEAD. Before you even get to the front door you’re greeted by chickens, bright yellow and orange sun faces and sunflower signs; making your visit more Darling Buds of May than corporate spa chain.

Sarah, a VTCT and MFHT approved mobile therapist, offers Reflexology, Swedish Massage, Aromatherapy, Back and Neck Massage and Ayurvedic Indian Head Massage, and firmly believes that we need to look after ourselves ‘holistically’ – paying attention to our mind, body and spirit.

Western medicine is often accused of treating the symptom rather than the person, resulting in only a temporary period of recovery. During the consultation, prior to treatment, Sarah looks at the whole health of the individual, physically, mentally, emotionally and many would say spiritually.

“We live in such a stressful environment,” says Sarah. “A lot of people these days need a helping hand. We pay to service our cars but spend so little on ourselves.”

Sarah has converted part of her home into a charming treatment room, complete with the heady aroma of massage oils, a treatment table and a collection of books she has collected from her world travels. I opted for an Indian Head Massage (incorporating shoulders, arms, hands, neck,

scalp and face). To say it was relaxing would be an understatement. I had been suffering from a headache all day but when I left Sarah’s home, it had completely gone. Knowing that Sarah is fully qualified and insured is extremely reassuring and you feel you are getting more than just a holistic treatment.

As well as working from her treatment room at Sunflowers, Sarah is also mobile and does home visits on request across the East Kent area and already has a loyal client base, many of which are stressed out professionals – solicitors and company directors. Older people with mobility problems also benefit enormously from the treatments.

Sarah also works part-time as a community carer and is passionate about offering holistic healing and therapies to a diverse range of people, including cancer patients and those with Dementia. Sarah is always developing her existing holistic knowledge by further courses and learning packages.

I would recommend Sarah’s services to anyone who is in need of relaxation and TLC, who has neck or back problems, depression and anxiety, insomnia or just wants to reduce their stress levels. Or perhaps a loved one deserves a treat? Sarah offers gift vouchers and pamper packs. Everyone should experience a fantastic holistic treatment at some point in their hectic schedule, and I can’t think of anyone better to offer it than Sarah at Feet First and Body Matters.

Feet First & Body Matters 07704 602682 picola1@btinternet.com www.feetfirstbodymatters.co.uk

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HEALTH+BEAUTY

A Week in the Life of Plastic Surgeon John Davison insideKENT HAS BEEN PRIVILEGED TO HAVE HAD AN INSIGHT INTO THE WORLD OF PLASTIC SURGERY, AS JOHN DAVISON HAS BEEN QUIZZED ON CONSULTATIONS, SURGICAL PROCEDURES AND DEFINITIONS IN RECENT ISSUES. ALL THE PROCEDURES ARE VERY PRECISE AND MOST TAKE SEVERAL HOURS TO PERFORM, SO CONSIDERING THAT JOHN ATTENDS ALL CONSULTATIONS, HOW DOES HE BALANCE CONSULTATIONS WITH OPERATING?

“…with the help of my Personal Assistant Teresa! Seriously, a working week is so full on that without her help it would be impossible.”

As far as a typical week goes there is a structure and the week is broken up to allow a full day of surgery and several half days of clinics and surgery.

Monday’s are slightly different; the morning starts with a clinic in Canterbury at the Chaucer Hospital, but the afternoon is spent at Evolution Skin Studios in Canterbury where the procedures are for injectable fillers and muscle relaxants.

“I really enjoy my time at Evolution Skin Studios, being out and about, as it were, in Canterbury makes what I do more personal and less clinical. Being in a public place brings vitality to the job that a hospital couldn’t ever do.”

Tuesday is a surgery day, which means an early start (7.30am) with operations all day at St Xavier’s in Hythe with an excellent team.

“I work with two or three anaesthetists within a set group of staff. It is important that your team know you and look after you. Knowing the way a surgeon likes to operate makes everything run as smoothly as possible. It’s always nice to have a coffee and a bacon sarnie waiting for you when you arrive at the hospital in the morning!

“I will start by visiting the wards and talking to the patients. We have to do the formalities such as signing consent forms and taking pre-op photos but I will take time to answer any further questions and try to put them at ease. I have met them all before so I am not an unknown, and in a hospital it is always pleasing to seeing someone familiar. Usually the anaesthetist follows my rounds shortly after that.”

The day of surgery then begins and the way the operations are scheduled it is pretty much at full tilt the whole day. The operations can be varied throughout the day and are carried out until 10pm.

“In a day I will carry out several different procedures, it isn’t a case of just filling a day with breast augmentations or eyelid surgery.

Varying the operations makes the day more productive and rewarding.

“Surprisingly the day goes very quickly. When the operations are complete I will visit the wards before heading home, the next morning I will revisit the patients from the previous day.

All procedures carried out in the hospital require an overnight stay so there are typically quite a few patients to see.”

On Wednesday, Thursday or Friday, an afternoon is also allocated for surgery which means that the following day will start with revisiting the previous day’s patients before attending the clinic.

Clinics can consist of new patients, check-ups for previous week’s operations and follow-up appointments for long term patients (e.g. 6 months ago).

“I see normal, everyday people; women mostly, but also children for corrective surgery (with their parents) and to a lesser degree men.

“I attend all of the consultations and the feedback I receive from patients is that they have been more than happy with the whole procedure; from consultation through to post-op check-ups.”

“These times allow me to consult with patients, both prospective and existing, at times more convenient to them. I am happy to accept that this is not an office hour job, and as I enjoy my work immensely it is certainly no hardship. I am also available for a post-op appointment on a Sunday should I receive a text from Teresa saying that a client has called with a concern. ”I would like to reiterate to readers, or anyone interested in any form of plastic or cosmetic surgery, the importance of always having an in-depth consultation with the surgeon who will actually carry out the surgical procedure. You may want to find out whether your surgeon is a member of the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) or the British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS). You must talk to someone and be fully informed, and please do not use the internet as a substitute for medical advice by a qualified plastic surgeon.”

John Davison has a busy and well-established plastic surgical practice based in central and East Kent. He is on the GMC Specialist register in Plastic Surgery. He is a member of BAPRAS, BAAPS ISAPS and the Safer Cosmetic Surgery group.

For more information and enquiries contact 0800 756 9677 or email enquiries@kentplasticsurgery.co.uk www.kentplasticsurgery.co.uk

The latter part of the week may allow a morning or afternoon off but John Davison will host an evening clinic on at least one day of a working week and a Saturday morning ‘catch all’ clinic.

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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HEALTH+BEAUTY

winter radiance with bareMinerals

®

USING ONLY THE FINEST QUALITY INGREDIENTS, THE BAREMINERALS FORMULA REPRESENTS THE IDEAL MIX OF MAKEUP AND SKINCARE – PROBLEM-SOLVING COSMETICS THAT PERFECT AND PAMPER THE COMPLEXION. LOOK RADIANT THIS WINTER WITH THE NEWEST PRODUCTS FROM BAREMINERALS, AND REST EASY KNOWING YOU’RE TAKING CARE OF YOUR SKIN. AS BAREMINERALS SAYS, ‘IT’S MAKEUP SO PURE YOU CAN SLEEP IN IT.® ’

Buxom Big & Healthy Lip Polish £18.00

Blemish Remedy £15.00

Deep Cleansing Foam £15.00

High Shine Eyecolor £15.00

A Buxom babe is all about curves, tingles and attitude — and that includes the lips. Plump what you've got with this luscious polish, which naturally creates the look of fuller, more voluptuous lips. You'll know it's working when a tingly, cooling sensation rushes over you.

Deeply cleanse skin and lift away impurities with this luxurious cleanser.

Powered by bareMinerals’ ActiveSoil Complex, this non-drying formula bursts into a rich lather when activated with water to deep clean pores, instantly refresh skin, and give you a naturally luminous glow.

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Conceal and prevent future breakouts with this targeted remedy and brush. The exfoliating properties of the ActiveSoil Complex along with the blemish-fighting benefits of natural sulfur effectively address blemishes while helping to prevent future breakouts from forming. This non-irritating formula also helps to minimise the appearance of pores, neutralise redness and diffuse imperfections.

Get high-intensity sheen from the naturally vibrant pigments of bareMinerals High Shine Eyecolors. Free of preservatives and chemical irritants, the velvety-smooth, long-wearing formula glides on effortlessly for an extra creamy, opaque finish full of glistening, foiled effects.

Original SPF 15 Foundation £23.00

The ORIGINAL SPF 15 Foundation gives you all the flawless coverage you want with a naturally luminous finish that won't clump or cake. It's clinically proven to improve the appearance of your skin over time. The creamy minerals diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles without drying out your skin. Its silky, soft texture looks like a powder, but feels like a cream and buffs on beautifully. Made with only the purest, highest quality ingredients. It's makeup so pure you can sleep in it.®

Purely Nourishing Moisturizer £27.00

Hydrate skin with this lightweight, remarkably effective moisturiser for improved firmness, elasticity, radiance and skin texture. Powered by bareMinerals’ ActiveSoil Complex with a unique electrolyte delivery system, the Purely Nourishing Moisturizer is formulated to provide the perfect amount of hydration for combination skin while potent antioxidants help protect skin from environmental stressors. The result?

Naturally luminous, younger-looking skin day after day.

Love. Understanding. Community. That’s what bareMinerals represents. It’s a trusted source. It’s the belief that products can actually be good, makeup can be fun, business can be personal and companies can behave more like communities.

For more information or to purchase bareMinerals products, visit www.bareminerals.co.uk

www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

55

HEALTH+BEAUTY

angelic style B Y

G E M M A

M O R P U R G O

www.dench.info

WITH A DEVILISH TWIST

Wow, what a year! It’s hard to believe it’s the Christmas season already.

To get us in the Christmas spirit, I was lucky enough to take my team to the very beautiful setting of Eastwell Manor to create our stunning photo shoot. In this inspirational and magnificent location, the scene was set, the models were ready and my brushes were itching to go.

I wanted to create an angelic style of makeup with a bit of a devilish twist; perfect for your Christmas parties or cocktails with the girls. Here is my step-by-step guide, and if followed correctly, you too could look good on top of a Christmas tree!

Angelic Eyes • Prime the eyes using MAC ‘Bare Study’ Paintpot and gently blend around the eye area, not allowing to blend the product too high (just above the crease of the lid is high enough).

• Apply ‘Retrospec’ Shadow to three quarters of the eyelid, and then ‘Goldmine’ mixed from the center to the outer corner (using a small fluffy brush, gently work the two colours together to reduce the appearance of a seam).

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• To give this beautiful angelic look a slightly edgy feel, wing the outer corners using a black shadow and again blend with your fluffy brush to give the appearance of a seamless finish.

• To make the eyes appear deeper set, work a little black shadow into the eye socket. This adds so much depth and compliments the feline shape that has been created.

• Using a black kohl eye pencil, line the waterline and lower lashline, and smudge together using a pencil brush.

• With a liquid liner, line the top lid and flick the ends out slightly to reflect the winged out shape and enhance it further.

• Last but not least add a huge helping of black mascara. I cannot recommend Max Factor False Lash Effect highly enough!

• To really complete this look and compliment the eyes further, I would select a peach tone for the lips. Opt for a peach gloss if you would like a subtle finish; or, for those of you who need a bit of colour in your life, why not try MAC ‘Costa Chic’ for a peach blast, or ‘See Sheer’ for a gentle yet bold wash of colour?

Blue Eyed Beauty

www.dench.info

A lot of people think you should dull makeup down in the winter. I beg to differ. Your makeup should be no reflection of the dreary weather – it’s time to liven winter up.

• Prime the eyes using MAC Prep and Prime eye. Gently blend it over the lid to get an even coverage.

• Using your favourite metallic silver eyeshadow (I used MAC ‘Electra’) blend all over the eyelid.

• Time to add some depth. My favourite product for this next step is Mac ‘Deep Truth’ eyeshadow (it’s a dark blue metallic shadow, easy to blend and stunning on any skin tone).

Using your chosen blue shadow and with a fluffy brush to contour, apply into the socket and outer corners of the eye. Pay special attention to the depth of colour on the outer corners – the darker the better.

• With a waterproof blue eye pencil (GOSH metallic blue is great for this), line the waterline and lower lashline, and again smudge using a pencil brush.

• Dab a little of your blue shadow onto your pencil brush and smudge along the existing lower pencil line (this will compliment the look perfectly and give the most beautiful smoldering eyes you have ever seen!).

• Apply a generous amount of black mascara and even apply false lashes for extra impact.

• To finish this beautiful look, apply a soft lip colour, in a pink or nude shade. A personal favourite of mine is ‘Hue’ (again by MAC).

Good luck and a very Happy Christmas.

I would like to thank Eastwell Manor for their hospitality and allowing us to use their stunning venue.

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

Photography - Jamie Dench www.facebook.com/jamie.dench Hair - Lotee Butcher Models - Kym, Abi Coulson

To book your own winter beauty session, contact Gemma Morpurgo on gemma@gemmamorpurgo.co.uk or visit www.gemmamorpurgo.co.uk.

AWARD WINNING HAIRDRESSING

NOW OPEN IN SEVENOAKS 01732 759 839

WWW.THECHAPEL.CO.UK THE CHAPEL, OLD ST NICHOLAS SCHOOL, LONDON ROAD, SEVENOAKS, KENT, TN13 1AU S E V E N O A K S

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T U N B R I D G E

W E L L S

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I S L I N G T O N

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     

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      

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 

  



      

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           

      

 

     

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COVERSTORY

BRAD PITT

CHRISTMAS SPIRIT AND BRAD PITT, THEY GO TOGETHER LIKE MINCE PIES AND MULLED WINE. CHRISTMAS SPIRIT IS ALL ABOUT FAMILY, FRIENDS AND SELFLESS GIVING – THREE THINGS PITT POSITIONS ABOVE EVERYTHING ELSE. AS WITH MANY OF THE FINER THINGS IN LIFE, HE HAS REFINED WITH AGE AND THE GEM UNDER THE SURFACE HAS BRILLIANTLY EMERGED, REVEALING TRUE VEHEMENCE.

Making his mark early on in Hollywood, Pitt was blessed (or cursed) immediately with the title ‘Sexiest Man Alive’. Never since Elvis Presley had the entire globe catapulted a single heartthrob into the spotlight. Obtaining almost instant fame and notoriety, his Hollywood stardom was a far stretch from his upbringing in Springfield, Missouri.

At school, Pitt was involved in sports, debating, student government and school musicals. He attended the University of Missouri, where he majored in journalism with a focus on advertising, but just two credits short of his degree, he moved to California to pursue his passion for acting.

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© Col Pics / Everett / Rex Features

Like 99% of aspiring actors who flock to Hollywood, Pitt supported himself with odd jobs such as driving strippers in limos, moving refrigerators and dressing as a giant chicken on the boulevard while working for a local fast food chain.

After small appearances in TV shows 21 Jump Street and Another World, and a returning stint on Dallas, he landed his big break in 1991 playing J.D. in the quirky film Thelma and Louise. His long blond locks and chiseled chin caused females the world over to catch their breaths. Only looking up from there, Pitt’s image became more visible and by 1994 his portrayal of the vampire Louis de Pointe du Lac in Interview with the Vampire and his iconic representation of Tristan in Legends of the Fall shot him into international fame.

As most of us know, Pitt doesn’t do things the conventional way, so he rebelled against the pretty boy heartthrob image and chose roles that were gritty and larger than life. His magnetism drew the masses to everything he touched. His diverse acting ability from pulling off comedic rolls with ease, to pure drama, has carved Pitt out as one of the best actors of our time.

Now, seventeen years after his spark was introduced to the world, Pitt is making his mark in ways that will carry his legacy through

time by becoming involved in social issues internationally. Finding friendship in a close circle of actors including George Clooney, Matt Damon and Don Cheadle (all whom he worked within the Ocean’s trilogy), he began to reach out in other ways to fulfill his desire to make the world a better place.

Aside the three actors and Jerry Weintraub, Pitt is a founder of Not On Our Watch, an organization that tries to focus global attention and resources to stop and prevent genocide such as that in Darfur. Their mission is to focus global attention and resources toward putting an end to mass atrocities around the world.

Drawing on the powerful voices of artists, activists and cultural leaders, Not On Our Watch generates lifesaving humanitarian assistance and protection for the vulnerable, marginalised, and displaced. The charity has been in the press and forefront of Hollywood since its beginning, raising awareness and calling for accountability for the injustices in the region.

Showing his heart through the giving of time and resources to countless causes is just the tip of the iceberg for Pitt, who has formed his own organisation, The Maddox Jolie-Pitt Foundation (MJP). In June 2009, MJP, dedicated to eradicating extreme rural poverty, protecting natural resources and conserving wildlife, donated to a U.N. refugee agency to

help Pakistanis displaced by fighting between troops and Taliban militants.

In January 2010, the foundation donated to Doctors Without Borders, an international medical humanitarian organization created by doctors and journalists in France in 1971, providing aid in nearly 60 countries to people whose survival is threatened by violence, neglect, or catastrophe, primarily due to armed conflict, epidemics, malnutrition, exclusion from health care, or natural disasters, for emergency medical assistance to help victims of the Haiti earthquake.

The main force of the work is being done in Cambodia where MJP is fighting to obtain environmental security, creating peace and stability in the communities and by planning and implementing interventions that prevent negative environmental changes.

Pitt is also donating $500,000 from the foundation to help rebuild the town of Joplin, Missouri from the deadly tornado that struck on 22nd May 2011, close to where he grew up. The Community Foundation of the Ozarks says the gift from MJP will go to mid- and long-term needs in the tornado-ravaged city.

The natural disaster destroyed more than 8,000 homes and 400 businesses.

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© BroadImage / Rex Features

Pitt’s compassion has also led him to start the Make It Right Foundation – a nonprofit organisation committed to financing and constructing 150 new houses in New Orleans’ Ninth Ward, rebuilding lives and communities after Hurricane Katrina with an emphasis on sustainability and affordability. In October 2008, the first six homes were completed.

In March 2009, Pitt met with U.S. President Barack Obama and Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi, promoting his concept of ‘green housing’ as a national model, and discussed possibilities of federal funding. In September 2009, Pitt received an award from the U.S. Green Building Council, a nonprofit trade organisation that promotes sustainability in how buildings are designed, built and operated in recognition of the green housing concept used for the Make It Right Foundation.

These are only a few of the causes that benefit from Pitt’s beneficence.

In opening up on why he and Angelina dedicate so much of their time to charity work he shares, “I hit the lottery - the whole cliché of moving to Hollywood and getting paid silly amounts of money. I’ve traveled the world and seen mothers and babies dying because they don’t have a 30-cent treatment that is available in industrialised nations. I feel like I have to share whatever I can. You’re culpable if you don’t act.

“You know, we bitch about raising taxes. I think the argument is that ‘it’s my money, I earned it, why do I have to pay for other people?’ I get very frustrated with that argument. I don’t mind paying taxes. I live in a country that gave me the opportunity to make money, and most people on this planet do not have that.”

Finding his soul mate in actress Angelina Jolie and settling down into family life seemed to shock the public, but Pitt had found the path that fulfilled him completely. “I spent the '90s trying to hide out, trying to duck the full celebrity cacophony. Angie was/is my true soul mate. I never knew I was capable of experiencing so much love.” Father to six children, his whole life revolves around them.

“One of the greatest, smartest things I ever did was give my kids Angie as their mom. She is such a great mom. Oh, man, I'm so happy to have her. I was surprised at how automatic becoming a parent was for me, how much of it is instinctual. And now I have a great confidence and trust in those instincts.”

Though he has said the couple would wait to wed until gay people could do so legally, he sees his children as the deciding factor. “The kids ask about marriage, it’s meaning more and more to them. So it's something we've got to look at. I have love in my life, a soul mate – absolutely.

When someone asked me why Angie and I don’t get married, I replied,

‘Maybe we’ll get married when it’s legal for everyone else.’ I stand by that, although I took a lot of flak for saying it – hate mail from religious groups. They say gay marriage ruins families and hurts kids. Well, I’ve had the privilege of seeing my gay friends being parents and watching their kids grow up in a loving environment.”

His fatherly attitude carries on when he discusses his children. He regrets that he can't pass on the freedom he enjoyed. “Our kids have to live behind a gate. They’re hunted.” The family migrates between the multi-house Los Angeles compound he calls ‘our base camp’ and film sets around the globe, spending downtime at a 1,000-acre estate in southern France.

“We're pretty nomadic,” he says. “Angie and I do everything we can to carve out some semblance of normalcy for them, to re-create the kinds of moments that were special for us. It's not unusual for the kids to be covered in paint. We have mud fights. It's chaos from morning until the lights go out, and sometimes after that.”

Keeping himself busy as always, Pitt’s production company, Plan B Entertainment (which produced the 2007 Academy Award winning The Departed) secured the screen rights to the World War Z novel after a bidding war with Leonardo DiCaprio’s production company, Appian Way. Now with Marc Forster directing the zombie post-apocalyptic, conspiracy spy thriller, Pitt is pulling double duty starring in and producing the epic adventure. His character, Gerry Lane, scours the world collecting experiences of survivors of the zombie aftermath 10 years after the epidemic. The film originally planned to shoot in Philadelphia but uncertainties about the future of the city’s tax incentives during the scouting phase convinced the production to choose Glasgow as the main location. The work continued in Malta and made a stop right here in Kent – at an old Morrison’s Supermarket in Tunbridge Wells.

Proving that beauty is not only skin deep, Brad Pitt’s charisma is only overshadowed by his luminescent soul. In a world that forgets the spirit of giving for 11 months out of the year, we could all take a lesson from him and keep the spirit of Christmas in our minds the whole year through.

Jolie-Pitt Foundation www.mjpasia.org Not On Our Watch www.notonourwatchproject.org

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FOOD+DRINK

PICTURE THIS...

BY ADAM READY

The recently opened Picture House Bar & Kitchen on St Peter’s Street, Canterbury, just a short walk up from the historic Westgate Towers, has a fittingly theatrical themed style.

Light bulbs illuminate large wall mirrors on the way into the restaurant, and two large photographs of the original cinema and street view circa 1920’s hangs on the opposite wall.

As you walk up to the main bar and restaurant area you can’t help but notice six old cinema seats with their hand-crafted iron legs and royal red fabric. We were happily greeted by our waiter and seated at our table whilst admiring the architecture of what once was the city’s Electric Theatre, with its mezzanine floor which now hosts more restaurant seating and hanging lights.

On first glance at the menu I noticed the very first sentence, “Everything you see on our menu is homemade.” This was a breath of fresh air from the number of chain restaurants which now dominate many high streets in Kent. Even the ketchup and mayo are made from scratch in the kitchen.

While browsing through the menu I spotted The ‘House’ Double Burger (16oz) being served up at the next table. What a picture - this made my decision easy! Consisting of two delicious lean beef patties, tomato, gherkin and smoked

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paprika mayo all piled up in a bun with three onion rings stacked on top, served with skin-on fries and coleslaw. You can even add cheese and bacon to this giant of a meal!

My guest (who I could just about see over my burger) went for a favourite of hers, Pasta Carbonara. This was a very generous portion of farfalle pasta with a creamy carbonara sauce, spinach, mushrooms and parmesan. With an option to add chicken or salmon to this already very filling dish, there was no chance of going hungry today.

The Picture House menu, created by Chef Sam Rosenheim, has a wide choice of food and lots to offer from ‘Brekkie’ available until 1pm to slow-roasted belly of pork served with mash, or just a healthy salad for a light lunch break. If you’re popping by for a drink, make sure you get a side of the house skin-on fries from the light bites and bar food section. For any Sunday shoppers, why not visit for a not to be missed Sunday roast?

After making good work of The ‘House’ Double Burger, we took a break to make some room for dessert. The hot chocolate pudding with vanilla ice cream arrived and was well worth the 15 minute wait needed to prepare from scratch.

As I cut into the pud the hot chocolate sauce oozed out perfectly. We also ordered the

peanut butter parfait, another favourite of my guest, who was not disappointed.

To coincide with the re-opening of The Marlowe Theatre, a pre-theatre set menu of 2 courses for just £10 (includes the pasta carbonara) is available. After your meal if you don’t have time to order your dessert before the show then return when the show is over to finish; just show your bill and enjoy.

Chatting to owners Blake McCaskill and Stuart O’Leary, it was obvious to see the hard work and passion that has been put into the Picture House. Renovations were completed within one month with the team working 24/7 to create a piece of theatre magic.

Picture House is open 7 days a week until late, offering a venue to dine at and then stay on to have a drink and even a bit of a dance. With simple great home cooked food on offer the Picture House has all the ingredients to become a one of the best eateries in the city.

PICTURE HOUSE 49a St Peter’s St (High Street) Canterbury CT1 2BE 01227 379 157 info@picturehousecanterbury.com www.picturehousecanterbury.com

CANTERBURY'S NEWEST EATERY + BAR HAS ARRIVED!

Picture House brings a slice of London to Canterbury's High Street by creating perfect synergy between eating, drinking and partying.

THEATRE MENU : 2 COURSES for ÂŁ10 Available every day 17:00-19:00 You can even enjoy your dessert after the show - just take your bill!

BREAKFAST CLUB : Canterbury's BEST breakfast until 13:00pm daily!

PARTY BOOKINGS : Boasting Canterbury's only Mezzanine level that's available to diners and for exclusive private hire.

IDEAL FOR CHRISTMAS PARTIES! Opening Times: 10:00am - 12:30am (*last table booking 10:00pm)

49a St Peter's Street (Westgate end of Canterbury High Street) 01227 379 157 | info@picturehousecanterbury.com For more info and to download our menu visit www.picturehousecanterbury.com

RECIPE

On The First Day Of Christmas

ROAST PARTRIDGE,

Butternut Squash Fondant, Pumpkin Purée, Pomegranate Seeds and Brown Butter Sauce

Serves 2 • 2 oven-ready partridge • 1 butternut squash • 20g pomegranate seeds • 60g pumpkin seeds • 1/2 savoy cabbage • 200g butter • 50g vegetable oil • 75g veal or chicken stock • 150ml cream • 20ml sherry vinegar 1. Cut the butternut squash in ‘planks’ about 2 cm deep, 8 cm long and 4 cm wide. Put in to a pan and cover with water. Add a knob of butter, and a pinch of salt, pepper and sugar.

Keep the remaining squash to make a lovely soup.

2. Thinly slice the cabbage and cook in salted boiling water until tender (not puréed). When

cooked, place into ice water. When cool, drain and place into a saucepan with a tbsp of butter. Lightly heat and stir until creamy.

3. Seal partridges on all four sides and place in a pre-heated oven at 180 degrees C for 12 minutes. When finished leave to rest.

4. For the pumpkin purée, toast the seeds until golden brown and place in a saucepan with 100 g of the cream and cook on a low heat for 5 minutes. After this blend the ingredients until you have paste (this can be done ahead of time).

5. For the brown butter sauce, put 60 g of butter in a saucepan and heat until you get a nutty colour (not burnt). Leave to cool and add 20 ml of sherry vinegar. Separately heat up the veal or chicken stock and the remaining cream and add the brown butter. Whisk vigorously until the sauce has incorporated the butter.

Lastly add the pomegranates.

7. Now your partridge has rested, take the breasts and legs off the bone. Heat a frying pan with 40 g of butter and place the partridge in the pan. Cook the legs through thoroughly while keeping the breasts slightly pink.

PLATING: Place the partridge breasts and legs on the ‘plank’ of butternut squash next to a little of the pumpkin purée. Make ‘quenelles’ (sausage shapes) from the cabbage and place on the plate. Add the brown butter sauce around the separate ingredients.

CHRISTMAS WITH CAINES ABode Canterbury would like to invite you to a very special and unique evening, ‘Christmas with Michael Caines’, a glittering gala wine dinner hosted by Michael himself in the Michael Caines Restaurant at ABode Canterbury on both Tuesday 6th and Wednesday 7th December 2011.

Michael Caines MBE, two-star Michelin chef at Gidleigh Park, and director and partner of ABode, will ensure that your holiday celebrations commence in great style. The evening begins with a Champagne and canapés reception, an opportunity to meet Michael who will greet each diner personally. Michael will introduce his Executive Chef Jean-Marc Zanetti, who together with his talented team, is charged with preparing an exciting menu of regional foods devised by Michael himself. Steve Edwards, ABode’s Head of Group Service, will also co-host the evening with Michael, introducing and presenting a stunning array of wines, port and Cognac to accompany Michael’s cuisine.

This is an occasion above all of great foods, great wines, and good cheer amongst friends. Michael will entertain you in his inimitable style with stories and anecdotes, as well as introduce each course of a magnificent tasting menu while Steve will give background information about the wines that he has carefully selected to complement each dish.

The cost for the evening is £110.00 per person which also includes a boxed bottle of Port per couple. Dining Club members receive 10% off the cost of their table booking.

To book your place please contact our sales team on 01227 826675 or revenuesmanagercanterbury@abodehotels.co.uk

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FOOD+DRINK

Dining Perfection

THE MARQUIS AT ALKHAM

B Y

P A U L

M A R T I N

HOW WOULD YOU GRADE A RESTAURANT? WHAT MAKES A RESTAURANT TRULY GREAT? SURELY THE MOST IMPORTANT ELEMENT IS THE FOOD, THEN PERHAPS THE SERVICE, THE WINE LIST, THE AMBIENCE OF THE DINING AREA, THE LOCATION. There are many aspects to a good restaurant, but the perfect restaurant has mastered these elements and delivers that little bit more; that certain je ne sais quoi; an element that you experience in only the very finest eateries: class.

There are hundreds of restaurants in Kent – some good, some bad.

All of them have their good points and all of them excel in certain areas. Many serve outstanding food, but suffer ultimately with service.

Some have won awards, received stars and commendations, but few can boast exceptional food, service and ambiance at the same time.

Welcome to the Marquis at Alkham.

A multi-award winning, five-star restaurant and accommodation, nestled snugly in the beautiful Alkham Valley, with scenery befitting this most excellent dining experience.

Depending on your approach the Alkham Valley and the Marquis can be easily found from the A2 or M20 by following the signs to Alkham on the Alkham Valley Road, which lies between Folkestone and Dover.

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The winding road will take you through the valley’s breathtaking scenery and past the farmland that produces a majority of the ingredients found on the menu. The Marquis sits proudly in the centre of Alkham, opposite the village green and right next to The Church of St Anthony of Pamiers.

The venue has a modern and chic feel, but not pretentious. Luscious wood flooring and dark wood detailing provide a contrast to the gleaming white napkins, polished cutlery and gleaming glasses on the tables. The dining area is immaculate, clean and crisp.

The staff are heartfelt and impressively knowledgeable of the menu and wine list, and make you feel as if you’re the only one dining in the restaurant. The setting feels smart and exclusive without being showy, but that is what comes of good service.

We all like to feel special once in a while and for me, there is nothing like excellent service to make me feel that way. Imagine a restaurant where the service is, for want of a better word, perfect. Where you are made to feel important before the menu is placed in your hand. Where customer service is dealt with such efficiency and grace that you can feel like the only person in a packed room.

The wine list is a triumph, a selection testament to the effort that has gone in to making the Marquis one of Kent’s very best restaurants. The global selection offers the best from classic reds to new world whites and Champagnes. There is a perfect accompaniment for every dish and every palette. The aperitif list is also extensive, offering cocktails, lagers, spirits and so on.

The Marquis has many aces including boutique luxury guest rooms, private dining, evening entertainment and packages to allow guests to take advantage of local events.

The Marquis also offers the perfect wedding venue. After the ceremony in the 13th Century Church of St Anthony of Pamiers, just next door, you can take advantage of the outstanding natural beauty of the valley for your photographs and then indulge in the superior setting of the Marquis for your reception.

If you have an approaching anniversary, important birthday or a marriage proposal, the Marquis is the perfect place to celebrate. Even if you don’t have a special event to commemorate, the Marquis will provide you an evening to treasure for any occasion.

In every aspect, the Marquis has excelled in catering for all tastes. The menu is constantly updated to capture the very best of the local produce providing a fresh seasonal menu of inspiring, globally influenced cuisine.

I felt particularly comfortable, leisurely pondering the menu in the lounge area while I enjoyed an aperitif, in the knowledge that I would be very well looked after in the entire dining experience to come. Alkham Valley rabbit, crab from Dover, fresh fish caught straight off the coast; making a decision between such an outstanding selection was proving a little difficult and so I opted for the taster menu, six courses of culinary decadence.

Too many times in restaurants the dulcet call of ‘who had steak?’ is accompanied with the clatter of your plate being launched like a frisbee onto the table. To my pleasure, each course was served delicately and personally, and we were given a detailed description of each element of the dish before being left to enjoy it.

My highlights from the taster menu were the Crisp Pigs Head and Trotter with Cauliflower Piccalilli and Fried Quails Eggs, and the Dressed Dover Crab with Roast Red Pepper, Avocado and Confit Lime. Once again I must compliment the staff. You wait and want for nothing. Faultless timing between courses, an effortless command of the dining area, all of which indicates professionalism and service not often seen.

The Marquis at Alkham Alkham Valley Road Alkham, Dover CT15 7DF 0871 951 1000 reception@themarquisatalkham.co.uk www.themarquisatalkham.co.uk

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FOOD+DRINK

CHRISTMAS CHEER WITH

Biddenden Vineyards Biddenden Vineyards is Kent’s oldest commercial vineyard having been established by the Barnes family in 1969. The vineyard and shop is open to visitors throughout the year, with free admission and tastings of the award-winning wines, ciders and apple juice. The shop offers a wide selection of local jams, chutneys, beers, honeys, liqueurs, biscuits and more.

Biddenden Vineyard's Christmas Shop will be open daily from Saturday 12th November until noon on Christmas Eve. As well as all of the local products which are usually available, there will be a specially chosen range of festive products from small producers around the country. New for 2011, they will also have a selection of cheeses from local producers, including Ashmore, Winterdale, Silcocks and Kentish Blue.

Looking for a unique gift? The vineyard will be offering the option to personalise hampers and gift trays with the items of your choice from around the shop. Each hamper is then packed by hand to create an individual Christmas present - great ideas to suit any budget, and ideal for that 'hard-to-buy-for' person!

As well as lots of ideas for Christmas gifts, the vineyard’s full range of wines, ciders and juices will be available to taste and buy from the shop.

TRY ONE OF THESE FANTASTIC BIDDENDEN DRINKS FOR SOME CHRISTMAS CHEER:

Biddenden Sparkling White Wine

Biddenden Monk’s Delight Cider

Biddenden Farm Pressed Apple Juice

Bottle fermented by the traditional method, using a blend of four grape varieties, Biddenden Sparkling White Wine is dry and fruity, and is ideal for celebrating with friends and family.

Monk’s Delight is blended with honey and spices and is a great winter warmer which is ideal for warming as a hot toddy. A lighter alternative to mulled wine, Monk’s Delight is great for fireworks night, Christmas, or just to warm you up on a cold winter’s night!

A deliciously clear, still juice, made using a blend of Kentish culinary and dessert apples, the Farm Pressed Apple Juice is a perfect non-alcoholic alternative to wine or cider. With no added sugar, the juice is also great for children.

The vineyard is open 10am – 5pm Monday – Saturday, 11am – 5pm Sundays and Bank Holidays.

Admission and tastings are FREE of charge.

For more information please visit www.biddendenvineyards.com

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or call the vineyard direct on 01580 291726 .

FOOD+DRINK

A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS at The Secret Garden

THE SECRET GARDEN IS A GLORIOUS ‘OFF THE BEATEN PATH’ VENUE, OFFERING THE FRESHEST LOCAL FARE IN A GORGEOUS SETTING. WHEN FIRST STEPPING INSIDE, YOU GET A FEELING OF BEING AT HOME – WITH COMFY SOFAS GREETING YOU AS YOU WALK IN, JUST RIGHT FOR AFTERNOON TEA AND CAKE. THE ATMOSPHERE, BOTH INSIDE AND OUT, IS ENCHANTING.

The tables look out onto the cobbled courtyard to one side, once home to the horses and coaches of the manor house. Looking to the other side, you can take in the beautiful views of The Secret Garden’s orchards and gardens, where they grow most of the fruit, veg and herbs used in their gourmet recipes.

This Christmas, enjoy a spectacular meal in magical surroundings at The Secret Garden.

Christmas Menu 2011 3 Courses £29.95 or 2 Courses £24.95 Friday 16th, Saturday 10th & 17th December £34.95 & £29.95 Tuesday 29th November & 6th December, 3 courses for £20.00* Add a glass of Chapel Down Sparkling Vintage for £7.80pp

STARTERS

• Seasonal Soup of the Day with Freshly Baked Bread • Crispy Goats Cheese & Sage Risotto Balls with Spiced Tomato Chutney • Smoked Mackerel, Trout & Horseradish Terrine with Watercress & Pickled Garden Beetroot • Ballontine of Wild Mersham Mallard Duck & Creamed Winter Greens • Bank Farm Pork & Savoy Cabbage, Faggots & Winter Greens • Salmon Ravioli with Crayfish Tails & Cured Salmon with Tarragon

MAINS

• Roasted Cod Fillet with Chorizo & Butter Beans • Roast Kentish Turkey with Traditional Accompaniments • Slow Braised Shoulder of Lamb with Minted Carrots & Rosemary • Ballontine of Chicken with Whisky, Grain Mustard & Bacon • Twice Baked Winterdale Cheddar Soufflé with Creamed Winter Vegetables • Seabass Fillet with Peas Lyonnais & Crispy Pancetta

THE PERFECT GIFT… Looking for an inspirational gift? Gift vouchers for the Secret Garden Restaurant and the Kent Cookery School make the perfect present – even for those hard-to-buy-for people on your list!

Gift vouchers are available for everything from Coffee & Cake to a Champagne Dinner for Two to a Taste of Italy Cooking Course.

Whether you’d like to treat your family, friends or colleagues, there’s a voucher for you.

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DESSERTS

• Traditional Home Made Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce • Garden Apple & Raspberry Crumble with Crème Anglaise • Pear & Almond Tart with Boozy Cherry Parfait • Secret Garden Sherry Trifle with Cranberry Shortbread • Selection of Homemade Ice Creams & Brandy Snap Biscuits • British Cheese Board with Homemade Chutney Coffee or Tea with: Shortbread, Mince Pies, or Homemade Chocolate Truffles £2.95

Please note Service is not included in your bill. * Tuesday may be supplements for some dishes. There will also be specials throughout December. £10 deposit per person required at booking.

Visit www.secretgardenkent.co.uk/christmas for info on The Secret Garden’s Christmas Menu, Teas and more.

Mersham le Hatch Business Village Hythe Road (A20) Mersham, Nr Ashford TN25 5NH 01233 501586 www.secretgardenkent.co.uk The Secret Garden is available for private hire.

Please contact for details.

FRESH AND VIBRANT, YOU WILL BE INSPIRED, EDUCATED AND ENTERTAINED.

Kent’s first purpose-built kitchens are now open, offering a vast range of day and evening courses with demonstrations. Suitable for novice to expert, children to OAPs.

COURSES INCLUDE: • A Taste of Kent • Seasonal • Italian • French • Bread Making • Fish and Meat Days • Barbeque • Foraging • Patisserie and Preserving PLUS: • Private Instruction • Corporate Events • Hen, Stag and Birthday Parties Cookery courses also make perfect presents. Gift Vouchers available online at www.secretgardenkent.co.uk or by ringing 01233 501586. www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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FOOD+DRINK

DINING OUT ON

CHRISTMAS DAY

After the excitement of seeing what Father Christmas left under the tree, it’s a wonderful thing sitting down to enjoy a gourmet festive meal with family and friends. It’s even more wonderful if you don’t have to commit to hours of food preparation, slaving over a hot stove and spending the entire evening washing up.

Take the stress out of your Christmas dinner this year by booking a meal at one of Kent’s best restaurants.

Michael Caines at ABode Canterbury Christmas Day Lunch 30-33 High Street, Canterbury CT1 2RX www.michaelcaines.com Roasted Scallops Salad with Cauliflower Purée, Pancetta Crisp and Wild Mushrooms or Wild Rabbit Terrine with Puy Lentils Salad, Quince Chutney and Sourdough Bread • Traditional Free Range Roast Turkey with Winter Vegetables, Chestnut Stuffing, Fondant Potatoes and Turkey Jus Gras or Roast Mature Strip Loin of Beef with Yorkshire Pudding, Winter Vegetables, Roasted Potatoes and Red Wine Sauce or Pan-fried Red Mullet, Baby Potatoes, Buttered Spinach, Roasted Salsify and Salsa Verde • Cinnamon Yogurt and Pear Compote • Homemade Christmas Pudding with Brandy Butter, Berry Compote and Vanilla Anglaise or Cinnamon Crème Brûlée with Caramelised Apple, Butterscotch Sauce, Apple and Calvados Ice Cream • Coffee and petit fours Richard Phillips at Chapel Down Vineyard Christmas Day Dining Tenterden Vineyard, Small Hythe, Tenterden TN30 7NG www.richardphillipsatchapeldown.co.uk Game Consommé, Winter Truffle Essence, Wild Chives • Smoked Pigeon, Foie Gras and Black Pudding Terrine, Plum Sauce, Sage and Watercress Salad or Cornish Crab and Lobster Croquette, Lobster Remulade, Lobster Veloute or Creamed Jerusalem Artichoke, Oak Smoked Chicken and Soft Herb Dumplings • Roast Free Range Norfolk Turkey, Traditionally Garnished, Fondant Potatoes, Honey Roast Parsnips, Roast Chestnuts Brussels Sprouts, Marjoram Roasting Juices or Roast Loin of Local Venison, Glazed Potato, Creamed Savoy Cabbage, Chestnut Purée and Spice Juniper

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Sauce or Red Wine Poached Fillet of Wild Halibut, Scallop Ravioli, Bouillabaisse Sauce • Chapel Down Christmas Pudding, Fruit Compote and Brandy Cream or Dark Chocolate Parfait, Caramelized Clementine’s, White Chocolate Sorbet or Selection of Local Cheeses, Biscuits and Pear Chutney • Coffee and a selection of Chocolates and Mini Mince Pies The Bull Hotel Christmas Luncheon Bull Lane, Wrotham TN15 7RF www.thebullhotel.com Ham Hock Terrine, Piccallili and Toast or Jerusalem Artichoke and Chestnut Soup or Smoked Salmon, Elderflower Schnapps, Lemon and Dill Poached Pear, Stilton and Walnut Salad, Celery Sorbet • Turkey, Rolled and Stuffed Black Leg Turkey, Bread Sauce, Cranberry Purée, Roasted Winter Veg and Potatoes or Wild Vension Wellington, Parsnip Purée, Mash, Armagnac Prunes, Glazed Hazelnuts and Chocolate Jus or Wild Mushroom Chestnut and Roast Butternut Risotto, Crispy Sage and Rosemary Oil or Wild Seabass, Confit Potatoes, Spinach, Lightly Curried Lentil and Pine Nut Sultana Sauce • Local Pear Sorbet • Traditional Christmas Pudding with Vanilla Custard or Lemon and Verbena Cream, Raspberry and Mint Oil Shortbread or Dark Chocolate Tart, Orange Ice Cream or Artisan Cheese Selection – Six Different Varieties with Biscuits, Apple and Celery • Tea/Coffee and Mince Pies The Marquis at Alkham Christmas Day Luncheon Alkham Valley Road, Alkham CT15 7DF www.themarquisatalkham.co.uk Canapés • Consommé of Pheasant with Chestnuts, Ham, Baby Brussels Sprout • Ballantine of Organic Salmon with Langoustine Cocktail, Keta Caviar • 3 Bird ‘Royal Roast’ - Capon, Duck and Pheasant with Thyme Stuffing, Cranberry and Orange Relish, Bread Sauce and Traditional Vegetables • Sherry Trifle • Grandma Lakin’s Christmas Pudding Soufflé with Rum Ice Cream or British Cheeses, Walnut and Raisin Bread (£ 12 as an extra course) • Coffee, Chocolates & Mince Pies

FOOD+DRINK

CHRISTMAS INDULGENCE

MINCE PIES, FRUITCAKE AND ICE CREAM. ICE CREAM? IT’S NOT YOUR USUAL YULETIDE DESSERT, BUT SIMPLY ICE CREAM’S CHRISTMAS PUDDING ICE CREAM IS BOUND TO BECOME A CHRISTMAS TRADITION.

Nothing says Christmas quite like mulled wine in front of a crackling fire, a delicious roast turkey with all the fixings, or homemade Christmas pudding around the table with family and friends. Ice cream isn’t usually something that’s on traditional Christmas dessert menus, but Kent-based Simply Ice Cream has created a decadent seasonal flavour to add a little spice to your classic pudding offering.

The Christmas Pudding Ice Cream combines the festive flavours of winter spices, sherry and cider with velvety ice cream, creating a delicate taste and texture. Delicious as an accompaniment to warm Christmas pudding or on its own, Simply Ice Cream’s Christmas Pudding is a must-have dessert for the season.

Simply Ice Cream is made by a small team producing ice cream the old fashioned way, by hand, in small batches using only locally sourced ingredients (where possible), natural flavours and seasonal fruits. The ice cream is free from any syrups, mixers, additives or preservatives, offering just pure natural goodness and flavour for all the family.

good that it has picked up a scoopful of awards including a Quality Food Award and a number of Great Taste Awards.

Sally Newall, owner and founder of Simply Ice Cream, says, “We are delighted with the following our ice cream has been generating across the South East. Our growing team is always working on new flavour ideas based on feedback and requests from fans; we even offer bespoke flavour making for special events and companies.”

The whole range is suitable for vegetarians and all but four flavours are gluten-free for everyone to enjoy.

Simply Ice cream is available from selected Waitrose and John Lewis, as well as local farm shops, village stores, delis, pubs, tearooms, attractions and restaurants across Kent, Sussex, Essex, Surrey and London.

For the full flavour list and info on where you can purchase Simply Ice Cream, visit www.simplyicecream.co.uk

The Simply Ice Cream range includes the award-winning Heavenly Honeycomb Crunch, Divine Chocolate and Apple Crumble to name only a few, plus their new range of Sorbets. The Simply Ice Cream range tastes so

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ART

Expressive Art

© D*Face

An expressive national touring exhibition - drawn from the Victoria and Albert Museum’s internationally renowned collection of prints, Street Art: Contemporary Prints from the V&A – sees its Kent debut in No.1 Smithery: The Gallery, in the heart of The Historic Dockyard Chatham.

This vibrant exhibition runs from 13th October until 27th November and is included in the normal admission price to The Historic Dockyard Chatham. It explores the (sometimes controversial) ways Street Art has moved away from the painted wall into printmaking and other media, creating distinctive, exciting visuals along the way. It showcases established and emerging street artists - both British and international - including names such as Banksy, D*Face, Jamie Hewlett, Eine, Miss Tic, Shepard Fairey and Swoon. Items on display include paintings, screen prints, linocuts, stencil prints, stickers and folded books that open out.

Street artists produce work in a variety of media, including the works on paper seen in this exhibition. Street art prints offer the opportunity to collect and preserve this otherwise ephemeral art form, which now moves between the street and the gallery. Street Art prints are an

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interesting development, both within the medium of printmaking and within urban art. Although street artists produce work for exhibitions and galleries, most still continue to work outside the gallery system, or in some cases, creating galleries of their own. This exhibition explores the recurring themes within the genre, such as historic and current subjects, traditional methods of image making and styles familiar from art history.

All tickets to The Historic Dockyard are valid for 12 months so return visits can be made throughout the year offering excellent value for money and no end of fun!

Go to www.thedockyard.co.uk for more information and now you can follow The Historic Dockyard on Facebook or Twitter

ARTS

NEIL BUCHANAN’S HOPE STREET PAINTS AN ENDEARING PICTURE OF MEMORY LANE

How did the idea for Neil Buchanan’s HOPE STREET come to you?

Actually you could say that out of something dark and sinister came something bright and full of hope. Three years ago I switched on my laptop whilst on holiday with my children to find 69,000 messages of condolence pouring into a Facebook site entitled ‘RIP Neil Buchanan’, following my ‘death’ from bowel cancer!

I started questioning the madness of modern technology and its negative influences and began to record my own childhood memories in Liverpool in the early 60s long before the days of Facebook, Twitter and the Internet. Whilst we didn’t have a lot of money in our house, life

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The Cinder Path ©Neil Buchanan 2011

Just One Lick! ©Neil Buchanan 2011

Tiddlers ©Neil Buchanan 2011

Art Attack, the BAFTA award-winning art series created and presented by creative powerhouse Neil Buchanan, has been filmed from the heart of our county at Maidstone Studios for close to two decades.

From the moment Neil Buchanan and Art Attack burst onto our screens in 1990, the fast talking Scouser wowed six million viewers each week with his amazing cartoon drawing, papier maché model making and awesome ‘Big Art’. For the past twenty years, Neil has made Kent and East Sussex his home and workplace and after a three year break from the cameras, Kent-based Art Attic Publishing is preparing to launch Neil Buchanan’s ’s first ever collection of published art based on Neil’s amazing memories growing up in Liverpool in the 1960s, surrounded by Beatlemania.

seemed simpler. In a series of rough sketches I started depicting a time before computers banished us to cyberspace and traffic clogged up our streets. Gradually the sketches began to grow into twelve fully fledged paintings and my HOPE STREET collection of art was born. HOPE STREET is this lively Liverpudlian’s response to the rumour mongers who tried to bury me!

Tell us about the pictures in Neil Buchanan’s HOPE STREET. My HOPE STREET is not a place, it’s a state of mind... and it’s a nice place to be. They were long, carefree days in the great outdoor adventure playground. When I went out to play, I walked down my very own HOPE STREET everyday with

the gift that only children truly possess in abundant measure - imagination.

I’m a sucker for nostalgia and each picture tells a story and there’s quite a bit of humour as well, so I hope they make people smile and reminisce about their own childhoods. As a performer, I want my pictures to perform for you and take you on a journey down your own HOPE STREET – to a place where you were free to dream and be whatever and whoever you wanted to be. I’ve painted everything from fishing with homemade rods, shared bike rides and hanging out on the swings, to the dead exciting arrival of the ice cream man and eating chips straight from the wrapper.

FAMOUSKENT ASK ANYONE INSIDE OR OUTSIDE OF KENT WHAT OUR COUNTY IS FAMOUS FOR, AND THE GENERAL RESPONSE MIGHT INCLUDE ROLLING COUNTRYSIDE, THE GARDEN OF ENGLAND OR MAYBE DOVER’S WHITE CLIFFS OR THE COUNTY’S HOP PICKING HISTORY. LESS LIKELY TO FEATURE IS SCALEXTRIC, SUBBUTEO AND, PERHAPS MOST GLOBALLY FAMOUS OF ALL, VIAGRA. BUT THEY, AND MANY OTHER FAMOUS NAMES, HAVE ALL ORIGINATED HERE IN KENT.

SCALEXTRIC

First appearing in 1952 as a creation of British firm Minimodels, Scalextric was originally a clockwork powered race car system. Scalextric has continually evolved and remained a firm favourite with children an incredible sixty years later, undergoing a major redesign at the beginning of the 21st century to step up to the digital age. Digitally chipped cars can run and change lanes without a human controlling them but you can switch back to analogue mode for those who like to indulge childhood memories and race the old fashioned way! Over the years the Scalextric brand operated under different companies, eventually becoming Hornby Railways based in Margate.

VIAGRA

In the early nineties a group of pharmaceutical chemists at Pfizer’s in Sandwich synthesised a compound named Sildenafil, a medicine initially formulated to treat hypertension and angina. During the clinical trials it was found that the drug had very little impact on treating angina in men, but had an unexpected side effect on penile erections. Pfizer decided to commercialise the drug and Sildenafil was patented in 1996 as Viagra.

It became the first oral treatment approved for use by men with erectile dysfunction and in 1998 Viagra was put on sale with recorded sales of over 1 billion capsules from 1999 to 2001.

SUBBUTEO

This classic finger-flicking football simulation action game grew out of the 1920s game ‘New Footy’ and was launched in March 1947. The game was invented, manufactured and solely distributed by Peter A. Adolph from his base in Langton Green, Tunbridge Wells. The first sets were sold by mail order and were very basic because of the effect the war had on raw materials and the initial small-scale production. But despite a humble beginning, like Scalextric, Subbuteo has stood the test of time and collectors can buy miniature men representing dozens of teams and countries from around the world. In addition football stadium enhancements are available such as stands filled with cheering fans, referees that stand on the sidelines and even stadium lights.

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ORLANDO BLOOM

BAGPUSS

Bagpuss was the legendary 1974 children’s television series produced in a makeshift studio in a disused cowshed in Kent. Made by Peter Firmin (artist and puppeteer) and Oliver Postgate (script writer and narrator) through their company Smallfilms, each programme would begin with a little girl named Emily (played by Emily Firmin, the daughter of Peter Firmin) who owned a shop that did not sell anything. Instead, Emily would find lost and broken things and display them in the window of the shop in front of her favourite stuffed toy – Bagpuss. Bagpuss and the rest of the toys would come to life to work out what the strange new thing could possibly be. Today Bagpuss resides in a display case at Canterbury Museum.

FAMOUS FACES BOY GEORGE

Boy George was born George Alan O’Dowd on June 14, 1961 in Bexley. His unique, artistic and nonconformist attitude eventually got him expelled from school.

So in his late teens and early 20s he wandered around the UK taking on widely varied jobs including picking on fruit farms here in Kent. His flamboyance earned him a kind of fame even before he ventured to make it as a vocalist in his own group, Culture Club. The band fell apart in 1986 and Boy George forged ahead with his own solo albums, as well as becoming a successful DJ in the early 90s.

Orlando Jonathan Blanchard Bloom, born in Canterbury, made his stage debut at the Marlowe Theatre at the age of four and was educated at the city’s St Edmunds School. His plans for becoming an actor developed here quite early.

He then spent two years at the National Youth Theatre before receiving a scholarship to train with the British American Drama Academy. After graduating from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama he won the part of Legolas in The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring and nothing would ever be the same again for him. Despite his worldwide fame, Orlando still has strong links to Canterbury through family and friends and has been a keen supporter of the Marlowe Theatre. In 2010 he received an honorary degree from the University of Kent in a ceremony at Canterbury Cathedral.

GEMMA ARTERTON

Gemma Christina Arterton was born in Gravesend on 12 January 1986, one of two daughters born to her working-class parents.

Her parents encouraged both girls to explore their artistic sides, and Gemma quickly gravitated towards acting and began studying with theater companies.

In 2004 she was accepted at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. Three years later she made her London stage debut and her first on-screen role.

Although Gemma was quickly gaining a name for herself in the British film and television industry, she was still an unknown quantity in the international market. She auditioned for a part in the 22nd installment of the James Bond series, Quantum of Solace, and won the part against 1,500 other women. Now poised for the international stardom that arrived with the release of the film, she was soon announced as the female lead opposite Jake Gyllenhaal and Ben Kingsley in the film version of Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, which helped to solidify her status as an international star in the working.

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A DICKENSIAN CHRISTMAS IN

Rochester

A REAL CHRISTMAS TREAT IS IN STORE FOR YOU ON THIS DELIGHTFUL WALK THROUGH ROCHESTER ALONG A SECTION OF THE SAXON SHORE WAY. THE MAGIC BEGINS AT ROCHESTER CASTLE AND CATHEDRAL AS YOU EXPLORE THESE HISTORIC LANDMARKS AND THEIR SURROUNDINGS IN THIS BEAUTIFUL AREA.

LOCATION: Rochester Bridge, High Street, Rochester, ME2 4DR DISTANCE: 3 miles (4.8 km), allow 1 hour 30 minutes STEP COUNT: Approx 6,000 OS EXPLORER MAP: 148 TERRAIN: Urban pavements (take care crossing roads) REFRESHMENTS & FACILITIES: There are cafés, restaurants and pubs throughout Rochester town centre PARKING: Near civic centre or in public car parks

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This walk starts and finishes at the Strood riverfront where the remains of a Roman bridge were discovered in the 19th century. Many historians believe the Romans had several bridges spanning the river here – the lowest crossing point on the Medway. Today the river is still very important to the local economy. Take a couple of minutes to admire the dramatic views as you walk across Rochester Bridge.

A short stroll leads you to the towering remains of Rochester Castle. It is one of the best preserved and finest examples of Norman architecture in England; its great keep is one of the tallest in the country, measures 113 feet high, 70 feet square and has walls 12 feet thick in places. It was here that the Romans built their first fort to guard the bridge.

Centuries later, in 1087, Bishop Gundulf – one of William the Conqueror’s finest architects – began the construction of the Norman castle, making use of what remained of the original Roman city walls. The castle has had a chequered history, having been subjected to siege three times, and in 1215 partly demolished by King John. Today, visitors notice the rebuilt round tower, contrasting with the three square originals towers. The castle is currently maintained by English Heritage and is open to the public. Those with a head for heights can climb 111 ft (34 m) to the battlements and enjoy a commanding view of the river and surrounding area.

Take some time during the festive season to wander through the Dickens Christmas Market, which is set in the grounds of the castle and is open Wednesdays to Sundays from 30th November until 18th December 2011. It’s the perfect place to find those last-minute stocking fillers or maybe an original Christmas gift.

As you continue the walk, you will notice that Rochester Cathedral faces the castle. Founded in AD 604 by Bishop Justus it is the secondoldest cathedral in England. Since the 13th century it has been a destination for pilgrims.

Step inside and view the huge fresco in the baptistery, painted by the Russian icon painter Sergei Fyodorov, dedicated in 2004. Don’t miss Sir Gilbert Scott’s organ screen for the famous Mander organ and listen for the Cathedral’s choirs practicing. www.rochestercathedral.org/visiting Continuing on, stop at Restoration House at Crow Lane, an ancient red brick house where Charles II stayed in 1660 on his way to assume his throne. It was the inspiration for Satis House, the home of Miss Havisham in Charles Dickens’ novel Great Expectations. Both the house and

garden are open to the public during the summer months, see www.restorationhouse.co.uk for details.

The festivities begin with the Mistletoe Masked Ball on Friday 2nd December, so why not stay and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere in style?

Other noteworthy sites in Rochester include Fort Pitt, which was the site of the principal military hospital in the early 19th century and was chosen

by Florence Nightingale as the first Army School.

Another site being the only Synagogue in England with its own graveyard, located at Hammond Hill.

WITHIN 5 MILES:

Finishing off the walk, head towards Eastgate and you may notice the Guildhall, one of the finest surviving civic buildings in Kent, built in 1687. The building now houses the Rochester Museum. Continue on to the finish point or stay and enjoy the festivities outside and around the Castle and the Cathedral.

Why not make a weekend of it and visit during the Dickensian Christmas Festival 3 – 4 December 2011 when the Medway towns come out to celebrate the areas lasting connections with the prolific writer Charles Dickens? During this festival, Medway is at its most vibrant; bustling with Dickensian characters, entertainment and events.

The Historic Dockyards The Historic Dockyard Chatham is an awardwinning maritime heritage destination with a fantastic range of attractions, iconic buildings and historic ships to explore. There is a fabulous programme of touring exhibitions at No.1 Smithery.

Dickens World Dickens World takes visitors on a journey through the author’s lifetime as you step back into Victorian England and are immersed in the streets, sounds and smells of the Dickens’ novels.

Upnor Castle An attractive turreted castle set in a picturesque village area that is backed by rolling, wooded hills. The castle is fronted by a water bastion jutting out into the River Medway.

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

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CHRISTMAS ENCHANTMENT AT

LaplandUK NOW IN ITS 5TH YEAR, LAPLANDUK WILL ONCE AGAIN DELIGHT AND ENCHANT BOTH CHILDREN AND PARENTS WHO COME FROM ALL OVER THE UK FOR THIS HIGHLY AUTHENTIC AND MAGICAL CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE. LAPLANDUK OPENS TO VISITORS ON SATURDAY 26 NOVEMBER AND CLOSES ON THURSDAY 24 DECEMBER (CHRISTMAS EVE) – JUST IN TIME FOR FATHER CHRISTMAS’ DELIVERIES!

Set deep in the woodlands of Bewl Water, Kent, LaplandUK has become a much loved highlight of the Christmas calendar, and has thrilled tens of thousands of young children since its inception, receiving national and international acclaim for its charming and high quality Christmas experience.

LaplandUK promises a unique and unforgettable Christmas journey for all young children, transporting them into a fairy tale world of wonder, with a traditional and imaginative range of activities on site. Having travelled along the Elves’ magical forest pathways with their LaplandUK passports freshly stamped, visitors arrive in the snowy wonderland where first they visit the Toy Factory to help the Elves before moving on to Mother Christmas’ Kitchen to decorate gingerbread and gather for storytelling. It’s then skates on for LaplandUK’s brand new ‘Ice’ Rink located in the Elf Village before getting the chance to get up close and personal with LaplandUK’s resident huskies and reindeer and meeting the Sami people. A very special personalised meeting with Father Christmas in his snowy woodland home,

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where he will give each child a collectable soft toy husky dog, tops off this highly magical day out for the whole family.

LaplandUK has introduced even more new activities and features for its young visitors this year, all carefully designed and created to enhance the unique experience of LaplandUK. From exciting new ‘Elf Jingles’ – the official currency for LaplandUK (which visitors can use to make purchases on site), new toy-making activities with the Elves in the Toy Factory, gingerbread decorating in Mother Christmas’ kitchen to the Husky Heaven clothing for the toy huskies, LaplandUK truly delivers an exceptional Christmas experience for all the family to enjoy again and again.

Tickets for LaplandUK (frozen at 2010 prices) can be purchased at www.laplanduk.co.uk

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SEVEN WONDERS OF CHRISTMAS

CHRISTMAS AT THE SEVEN WONDERS OF THE WEALD IS ALWAYS AN EXCITING AFFAIR, WITH MANY OF THE ATTRACTIONS OFFERING A HOST OF EVENTS FROM EXCLUSIVE LUNCHES AT A CASTLE TO STEAM TRAIN RIDES WITH SANTA.

The popular attractions which make up the Seven Wonders are Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest; Biddenden Vineyards; Marle Place Gardens and Gallery; The Hop Farm; The Kent & East Sussex Railway; Chiddingstone Castle and Merriments Gardens.

Biddenden Vineyards and Merriments Gardens both offer Christmas shopping opportunities from wine and various condiments at Biddenden Vineyards to gardening gifts at Merriments Gardens.

The delightful Chiddingstone Castle in the National Trust village of Chiddingstone (midway between Hever Castle and Penshurst) has a Christmas fair on 25 November where shoppers can browse stalls for unique Christmas gifts including handmade jewellery, home accessories and children’s toys. The pretty Victorian tea room, complete with armchairs next to the range will be open for shoppers to relax. Admission to the fair is just £2.50.

If you’ve ever fancied living like a king this Christmas, large parties are invited to book their lunch or supper in the Great Hall at this fine castle. The feast includes fabulous cocktails and canapés, a three-course seasonal supper served with selected wines, and to follow petits fours, a glass of port and fresh coffee. You can choose to enjoy dancing in the Rose Room after your evening meal, and accommodation can also be arranged at a nearby hotel.

Families who are looking for the perfect festive experience should consider taking the children on the original Santa Special organised at the Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterden. Passengers of all ages will enjoy the nostalgic hour-long journey through the magical winter landscape. Children will meet Santa and receive a gift to take home and put under the tree. Also enjoy riding on the Victorian carousel and taking a trip on the miniature railway to the Snow Queen for a family photograph.

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Chiddingstone Castle Christmas Fair 25th November 10am – 4pm Admission £2.50 Supper or lunch at the castle – £60 per person plus VAT For more info or to book, contact 01892 872744, events@chiddingstonecastle.org.uk or visit www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk

Santa Specials at the Kent & East Sussex Railway Earlybird Special – 3rd & 4th December – Standard class: £13.00 First Class: £16.00 10th, 11th, 17th, 18th, 22nd, 23rd December – Standard class: £16.50 First Class: £20.00 24th December – Standard Class: £17.50 First Class: £21.00.

Price includes train journey, rides, a present for children 12 and under and a free photograph.

For more information about the Santa Specials at the Kent & East Sussex Railway visit www.kesr.org.uk

Ice Skating in Royal Tunbridge Wells 26th November (excluding Christmas day) – 2nd January 9.30am - 9.30pm One hour’s skating, including skate hire, from £7 for children and £9 for adults.

Last session at 8.30pm, excluding Christmas Eve. Booking at peak times is essential – Thursday and Friday evenings and all day Saturday and Sunday.

Book at www.tunbridgewellsatchristmas.com

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The Dickens Christmas Market

CHRISTMAS IS COMING, AND THERE’S NO BETTER PLACE TO GET IN THE FESTIVE SPIRIT THAN THE DICKENS CHRISTMAS MARKET AT ROCHESTER CASTLE.

The fun starts on 30th November at 3.45pm with the ‘Big Christmas Lights Switch On’ starring the legendary American rapper Vanilla Ice. Come down and enjoy the magical lantern procession from Rochester High Street led by the Mayor of Medway who will be joined by Dickensian characters and an array of characters still to be announced. The ‘Switch On’ will bring thousands of twinkling fairy lights to life, illuminating the arches forming a tunnel over the pedestrian walkways, plus over 10,000 lights will light up the Market’s 25ft Christmas tree decorated with over 3,000 sparkling baubles.

Set in the beautiful grounds of Kent's Rochester Castle, overlooking the River Medway and just a few steps from Rochester's picture-postcard Victorian High Street, home to Medway’s Dickensian Christmas Festival, the opening dates for this year's market are Wednesday 30th November to Sunday 18th December. Unlike 2010, the market will open on Wednesdays to Sundays for the three week period and will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Photos © www.dickenschristmasmarket.com

Come along and enjoy a truly festive atmosphere with the Castle walls illuminated in traditional Christmas colours, trees filled with twinkling fairy lights, and the smell of roasted chestnuts and glühwein filling the air. Walk amongst an array of wonderful German 'style' Christmas market huts selling a range of Christmas gifts, handcrafted goods and festive fayre. In addition to all of this, street entertainers and Dickensian characters mingle amongst the revellers, whilst bands and carol singers entertain visitors in the market (subject to weather conditions).

For more info, visit www.dickenschristmasmarket.com

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sew

NOT STRAWBERRY JAM

WHETHER YOU’VE NEVER PICKED UP A NEEDLE AND THREAD, OR WANT TO FRESHEN UP YOUR SKILLS AND MAKE SOMETHING FABULOUS, SEW NOT STRAWBERRY JAM OFFERS COURSES AND TUITION ON SEWING, SOFT FURNISHINGS, FELTING, MILLINERY, PATCHWORK AND LOTS MORE.

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Sew Not Strawberry Jam’s Owner Samantha Coates

Offering an alternative to your traditional day out, Sew Not Strawberry Jam’s textile workshops are tailored for every skill level – from beginners to experts.

Owner and seamstress extraordinaire Samantha Coates sheds some light on what inspired her to start teaching and how she first discovered her love of textiles.

When did you start sewing, and what sparked your interest in it?

I’ve always been interested in fabric and cloth, even when I was small child. My mum spent a great deal of time with my sister and I sewing and doing other handicrafts, and that’s what started me.

When I was around 8 or 9 years old, I would go down to the fabric shop with my pocket money to buy fabric remnants, and even to this day I can’t help but sort through remnants to see what I can buy. I was a hoarder of textiles! I always loved making something out of nothing, so to speak.

I learned how to make curtains for my first house, and then ended up making nearly everything. I always managed to find someone to teach me the things I was interested in and wanted to learn. That’s what I want to do for other people – inspire them to do things that they think they can’t do.

What’s the best part of your job?

Teaching from home in my light and airy studio, watching the seasons through the window, and being able to encourage people to do things that they may not think they can do.

What’s your favourite thing to teach?

I don’t think I have a favourite thing to teach – I love teaching anything, and as I’ve mentioned, I think my favourite thing is having other people achieve things that they didn’t think they could do. So many people have said that they wish they could do what I do, and I’ve told them they can! All they need is someone to show them how to do it.

During summer I enjoy going to galleries and studios around Kent to look at other people’s work – to get inspiration and to just visit the beautiful countryside. Romney Marsh in particular has quite a nice feeling to it and is quite dramatic in the winter.

For more info on Sew Not Strawberry Jam’s workshops, parties and one-to-one sessions, visit www.sewnotstrawberryjam.co.uk

As I was growing up, school was not a great experience for me because I felt my teachers never encouraged me. That’s one of the reasons I’ve wanted to teach other people. I felt that I could have gone into a career earlier in my life had my experience at school been different.

Consequently, that’s why I did my degree in my late thirties, and at that time I was chosen to work in the Royal Opera House in the costume department, which was an amazing opportunity.

What are the requirements for doing one of your workshops?

No requirements at all – only your time and enthusiasm. No experience is necessary. It might be good to know what you want to produce; then I’ll help you do it, and you’ll relax, create, enjoy and go home with something that you’ve made!

Being somewhat Kent-obsessed, we just have to ask: What are some of your favourite places to visit in Kent?

CHRISTMAS AT SEW NOT STRAWBERRY JAM It’s Christmas time! Time for mince pies, Christmas trees and decorations! Join Sam at this festive workshop to make your choice of pretty fabric chains with buttons, stockings stuffers or a variety of gorgeous handmade gifts. Space is limited, so book early!

3 December 2011 10am-4pm Contact Sam on 07828 195938 or info@sewnotstrawberryjam.co.uk for more info or to book.

I love going to gardens. I love going to Sissinghurst Gardens to see the beautiful colours of the flowers in all the seasons. I visit lots of gardens in Kent.

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TOWNSPOTLIGHT

SPOTLIGHT ON

CANTERBURY

There is no where I can think of that says Christmas like Canterbury during the festive season.

Canterbury has always drawn vast crowds, from pilgrims travelling to the religious city, to the many students that pass through the universities and colleges each year. It is a very unique city with a unique feel that makes it undeniably popular with its many visitors.

There is always something to do, something to see. When the lights and decorations of Christmas go up, the city embraces the festive season.

The smell of food fills the air from the Christmas markets, street vendors with chestnuts and candied peanuts and of course the excellent restaurants, cafĂŠs and bars that the city has to offer.

The streets throb under the thrall of merry shoppers in search of the perfect gift, or the biggest bargain in the abundance of high street names. Yet it is the small boutique shops in the maze of cobbled streets around the cathedral where the real gems are to be found. Fine jewellery, intimate gifts for that special someone, salons, sweetshops and sewing, all offering a more personal touch.

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Evening entertainment comes in many forms, from live bands, to street shows and fantastic productions at the newly re-opened Marlow Theatre, from comedy to ballet, there is a show for all tastes.

With the skyline dominated by the cathedral, beautifully lit at night and sounds of cheer from local pubs and bars it is easy to get caught up in the merriment. For those of you with a true love of Christmas, the Christmas Eve Choir at the Cathedral is a must. A truly breathtaking event that would make even Scrooge’s heart flutter.

925

Situated on Canterbury’s main street near the historic West Gate Towers, lies Canterbury’s Walk-In Fish Spa & Beauty Treatments.

This charming salon offers a range of beauty and pampering treatments, including Full Body Massage, Reflexology, Waxing and traditional Manicures and Pedicures.

The main attraction though is their Garra Rufa Fish which gently remove dry and dead skin from your feet leaving them soft, smooth and rejuvenated. This amazing natural treatment, which has other benefits such as improving blood circulation, can be finished off with

a 5 minute moisturising foot massage. Pure indulgence...

beautiful sterling silver jewellery

Featuring a full length picturesque wall painted mural and relaxing smoothing music makes Feet Bliss the perfect place to unwind and is a must visit next time you are in town.

Feet Bliss | 20 St Peters Street Canterbury | CT1 2BQ

01227 784469

57 Palace Street The King’s Mile Canterbury www.925-silver.co.uk

Canterbury’s Traditional Christmas Market

18 November – 24 December

For the 6th time, Whitefriars Square, which is situated right in the centre of the picturesque, medieval City Canterbury, will be transformed into a traditional Christmas Market.

Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere of the yuletide market, whilst relaxing with a glass of ‘Glühwein’ (German Mulled Wine) and listening to traditional Christmas music. The typical German Sausage ‘Bratwurst’ does not need an introduction, or perhaps you’ll decide to eat a delicious Waffle to enjoy the sweet side of life.

While wandering about, look for and find unusual Christmas presents such as jewellery, hand crafted toys, fragile glass ornaments for your Christmas tree, wooden decoration, unique hats in all shapes and sizes, and much more.

For more info on the Canterbury Traditional Christmas Market, and many other Christmas Markets, visit www.xmas-markets.com

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ESCAPES

Oakwood Oakwood House House Tucked away in mature parkland in Maidstone, Oakwood House is an impressive and recently refurbished Victorian mansion. Steeped in history, the building is full of period features which are mixed with contemporary and stylish décor throughout the 40 ensuite bedrooms.

Built around 1869 by Lewis Davis Wigan, it was occupied by the Wigan family until 1948. When it was purchased by Kent County Council, much of the Victorian character remained in the house and that sense of history and grandeur has been well maintained and immediately impresses upon you as you enter the house.

The bedroom was a pleasant surprise. In contrast to the classic and traditional feel of the public areas of the house, the bedroom was ultramodern and chic with flat screen TV, dark wood furniture with luxurious fabrics and contemporary tiled bathroom with power shower. A lot of time and effort has gone into the refurbishment of the bedrooms achieving the best of both worlds – atmosphere and history of a Victorian mansion with the comfort and luxury you would expect to find in a top hotel.

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The Courtyard Bar and Restaurant also has a modern feel. Open to the public all day it is a lovely airy space for business meetings or socialising with friends in an informal atmosphere.

The menu is bar style and although not extensive, what was on offer was well presented and very tasty. The homemade burger was especially good and profiteroles are always a winner! Great comfort food.

After dinner we took a tour of the vast house.

Every event, intimate to grandiose, can be catered for in one of the many rooms. For an important meeting or special meal for nearest and dearest, the cosy oak panelled study can seat up to 10.

The function suite is large enough to cater for up to 300 guests for formal dining. The suite is selfcontained with its own bar, quieter seating area and direct access to the gardens and grounds making it the perfect setting for weddings and parties.

In addition to the main function rooms in the house there are a number of conference rooms available to cater for anything from business meetings to large corporate events. The house has everything you need from audio/visual equipment and Wi-Fi to food and drink and plenty of parking right on site.

Oakwood House also has plenty of events on offer open to the public. Festive family lunches and Christmas parties are available this festive season culminating in the special New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball.

There are plenty of options for any event and opportunities to come and enjoy Oakwood House. Just don’t leave it too late to book your event, word is spreading quickly!

CHRISTMAS & NEW YEARS AT OAKWOOD

Snowflakes and Sparkles

New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball

You and your guests will be transported into a Winter Wonderland extravaganza! A superb three-course feast, a beautiful Christmas setting and novelties will get you into the festive spirit. After enjoying your meal, the DJ will have you up on your feet dancing as he plays hit after hit with the after dinner disco. The perfect setting for your Christmas party.

The Ball begins with a Champagne reception and canapés followed by a superb 5-course dinner to the accompaniment of a String Quartet, followed by a disco into the early hours and a glass of Champagne to welcome 2012.

Thursdays 15th and 22nd December - £35 per person Fridays 2nd, 9th and 16th December - £40 per person Saturdays 3rd, 10th and 17th December - £40 per person

Traditional Christmas Sunday Lunch Treat yourself and your loved ones to a traditional festive Sunday Lunch in the splendour of Oakwood House Hotel.

The Christmas Family Sunday Lunches include: • A three-course festive feast • Coffee and mince pies • Christmas novelties • Lounge singer Adam Chandler • Visit from Father Christmas with a present for all children under 12 years of age During your meal you will be entertained by the stunning voice of singer Adam Chandler, singing all of your favourite Christmas melodies.

Sunday 4th and 11th December - £25.50 per person, £13.50 per child under 12

The New Year's Eve Masquerade Ball can be completed with an overnight stay, should you take advantage of one of our superb accommodation packages. Then start the New Year in style with Oakwood House’s fabulous New Year's Day Brunch.

Dress code is Masquerade Black Tie. Strictly over 18s.

Evening Only - £80 per person Evening plus Standard Accommodation - £119 per person Evening plus Superior Accommodation - £129 per person Evening plus Presidential Suite - £155 per person

Oakwood House Hotel Oakwood Park Maidstone ME16 8AE 01622 620720 info@oakwoodhousehotel.co.uk www.oakwoodhousehotel.co.uk

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TRAVEL

TOP TIPS FOR A HASSLE-FREE WINTER BREAK

HolidayExtras.com's CEO Matthew Pack

HOLIDAYEXTRAS.COM'S WINTER SPORTS-LOVING CEO, MATTHEW PACK, SHARES HIS TOP TIPS FOR GETTING AWAY STRESS-FREE THIS SEASON. As the snow sports and winter sun season takes off in earnest, there's also the potential stress of Christmas travel to deal with. A keen snowboarder, skier and windsurfer as well as CEO, husband and daddy to two young children, Matthew has all the insider info on avoiding unnecessary hassle when you're meant to be relaxing.

• Sounds obvious, but plan ahead! Once you've got your main break sorted, don't leave booking your extras until you arrive at the car park or hotel - even if you book the day before you will save money on the standard rate. You can sort most things online in advance now, from checkin and fast-track security to parking and car hire. For ski hire, check out www.snowbrainer.com.

• If you're taking snowboarding or ski equipment, look at your airline's baggage policy before you travel so there are no nasty surprises at check-in.

• Make sure you get the right kind of holiday insurance for your trip - this is the last thing you want to be worrying about when hitting the beach or the slopes. Check the small print for off-piste skiing. Don't assume that it ‘won't happen to you’, even the most experienced winter sporters get injured and you don't want to be left with an astronomical medical bill at the end of your holiday. My father was helicoptered off a mountain last year.

• Instead of going to the hassle of changing your money, buy a currency card which you can use again and again - FairFX (www.fairfx.com) offers a commission-free prepaid debit card which saves you time, money and stress, and the rates are hard to beat. You can also withdraw cash from ATMs with a currency card.

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• Look at Meet and Greet airport parking, especially if you've got winter sports gear or a family, or both, to drag to the departure lounge.

This is available at most airports across the UK. Some hotels also offer this service, including the Ramada at Heathrow and the Courtyard

by Marriott at Gatwick. With Meet and Greet parking you head straight to the terminal with all your luggage, and a driver will collect your car and drive it to the car park for you. On your return, your car will be waiting for you. You’ll be amazed by the prices and some parking options.

• Treat yourself to an airport hotel the night before your flight (or on your return). It removes so much of the anxiety associated with travelling; and really does mean you start your holiday early. The price difference between airport parking, and parking with a hotel, is often minimal (around £20). You can add on dinner, breakfast, or even a bottle of wine to your booking from the comfort of your sofa when you select your hotel – one less thing to worry about, one more thing to look forward to.

• The range of airport hotels available is amazing, from five-star luxury to cheap and cheerful.

Some hotels are particularly fantastic for families, with brilliant facilities and kids' menus where children eat free.

• An on-airport hotel is the ideal choice for the smoothest start to your winter break as many are just a short walk through a covered walkway to the main terminal building. Easy! Hotels that are connected to the airport by a covered walkway include the Sofitel at Gatwick’s north terminal, the fabulous Radisson Blu at Stansted, the Hilton at Heathrow Terminal 4 and the fivestar Sofitel at Heathrow’s Terminal 5.

• Airport lounges are not just for business people or VIPs. Many lounges welcome families, and provide an escape from the hustle and bustle of the main terminal. You'll get complimentary refreshments, access to the internet, TV and newspapers for up to three hours before your flight in most cases. You can even book a pampering spa treatment at the No 1 Lounge at Heathrow – a facial or a massage before you fly!

• Plan your route to the airport beforehand with AA Route Planner or something similar, and check out service stations that are suitable for your group's needs.

• Give your vehicle some winter maintenance so it's in top condition for the drive and while you're away. Remember, your car will be sitting on a car park while you're enjoying yourself.

• Take plenty of water, snacks and activities for young children in case of delays!

• Make sure you set off in good time.

• Relax!

HolidayExtras.com is the UK's market leader for travel add-ons and is based in Newingreen near Hythe, Kent. To book, visit www.holidayextras.com or call 0800 1313 777.

EQUIPPED FOR LIFE. FREE DESIGN SERVICE. A perfectly planned kitchen is where living, cooking, working and enjoyment all happen together.

SWANS KITCHENS & BATHROOMS TRADING IN THE AREA FOR 30 YEARS

2 -3 Echo Square Gravesend Kent DA12 1NP Tel: 01474 569070

www.swanskitchens-bathrooms.co.uk

TRAVEL

THE ANCIENT TRADITION OF

Christmas Markets

THE HISTORY OF CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES BACK TO THE LATE MIDDLE AGES AND ORIGINATES FROM THE GERMAN SPEAKING PART OF EUROPE. THE BAUTZEN MARKET IN SAXONY IS THOUGHT TO BE ONE OF THE OLDEST RECORDED, DATING BACK TO 1384. THE DRESDEN CHRISTMAS MARKET, FIRST HELD IN 1434, REMAINS POPULAR TO THIS DAY, STILL ATTRACTING IN THE REGION OF TWO MILLION VISITORS EVERY YEAR AND FEATURING OVER 60 STALLS.

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visit www.christmasmarkets.com

In many German towns the Christian festival of Advent often coincides with the opening of the Christmas market or ‘Weihnachtsmarkt’. In southern Germany such events are sometimes referred to as a ‘Christkindel markt’, literally meaning ‘Christ child market’. Often taking place in the town square, the markets offer an array of food and drink produce and seasonal items while featuring traditional singing and dancing.

Popular attractions at most German Christmas markets include a nativity scene, not to mention Glühwein, a warm mulled wine (sometimes administered with a shot of brandy), or Eierpunsch (an eggy warm alcoholic drink). Both are excellent antidotes to the cold winter air which often falls below freezing. In most markets the stallholders sell handmade items, toys, books, Christmas tree decorations and ornaments.

As Christmas markets have grown in popularity, events can be found in all sorts of venues ranging from town centres to stately homes with varying durations. Some take place over one weekend while others last for six weeks or more.

In France, Christmas markets, otherwise known as marché de noel, provide a great opportunity

for winter weekend breaks. Exuding a fantastic atmosphere they offer great shopping, with a Gallic flavour, and the opportunity to replenish wine stocks for the festive season. Most towns and cities in France host a Christmas market between late November and the end of December.

Many other European countries have adopted the Christmas market tradition, including Krakow in Poland, Prague in the Czech Republic, Budapest in Hungary and of course the Swiss markets, notably Basle which is popular with German, French and UK visitors alike.

French Christmas markets offer varied ambience depending on their location. For example, Christmas markets in the Alsace region have a Teutonic influence due to their proximity to Germany, particularly Strasbourg.

For a comprehensive listing of European Christmas markets and Christmas breaks, visit www.christmasmarkets.com

Christmasmarkets.com offers a good crosssection of French markets including those in Paris and Lille, which are particularly popular locations due to ease of access From Dover.

Christmas markets in Belgium are very popular too; they provide the perfect opportunity to combine a stress-free journey with a relaxing winter weekend break. Belgium markets offer a fantastic atmosphere with great shopping opportunities. Notable markets include the Brussels Winter Wonderland, the Bruges Christmas Market and a relatively new market in Ypres which is now in its third year.

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EDUCATION

KENT COLLEGE: YOU ONLY GET ONE CHANCE “Why did you choose Kent College for your children?�

One of my children started at the local primary school and was very happy and doing well, however she moved into a class of thirty and it became obvious that she was getting lost in the middle.

We thought long and hard about moving but have never regretted the choice. My daughter is now in a much smaller class at Kent College and thriving with more attention.

The wrap around hours allow me to work full time safe in the knowledge that my children are being well cared for until I can pick them up. In fact I still collect them early from school once a week and this is the only day that the two of them moan as they want to stay at school and join in the many activities on offer.

My second child I started straight away in the nursery where I was able to use my early years’ entitlement vouchers and he has now progressed into reception.

You get one chance at education and I am very happy with the choices I have made. My children get up every morning and are excited about going to school!�

Happily Ever After...

At Kent College pupils realise their dreams Outstanding co-education for 3 to 18 year olds Excellent academic results Strong pastoral reputation Extended school day Local bus routes More affordable than you think

Come and see us... Every day is open day

Ă•Â˜ÂˆÂœĂ€ĂŠ-V…œœÂ?ĂŠUĂŠĂ¤ÂŁĂ“Ă“Ă‡ĂŠĂ‡ĂˆĂ“{ĂŽĂˆĂŠUĂŠprepenquiries@kentcollege.co.uk -iÂ˜ÂˆÂœĂ€ĂŠ-V…œœÂ?ĂŠUĂŠĂ¤ÂŁĂ“Ă“Ă‡ĂŠĂ‡ĂˆĂŽĂ“ĂŽÂŁĂŠUĂŠregistrar@kentcollege.co.uk www.kentcollege.com www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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YOU’VE EITHER GOT IT OR YOU HAVEN’T

ABARTH 500

1.4 16V TURBO T – JET POWER OUTPUT 135HP (99KW) AT 5,500RPM PEAK TORQUE 206NM AT 3,000RPM ACCELERATION 0 – 62 MPH 7.9 SEC TOP SPEED 127MPH

Representative Example

Abarth 500 1.4 16v Turbo On the Road Price Customer Deposit Amount of Credit 47 Monthly Payments

Optional Final Payment (includes £285 fee) £4,964 £14,461.71 £2,199 £12,262.71 £199

Total Amount Payable by Customer £16,506 Duration of Contract 48 months Rate of Interest (Fixed) 5.25% Representative 6.0% APR

PLUS GREAT FINANCE DEALS ON PUNTO EVO AND 500C

Performance House, Forstal Road, Aylesford, Maidstone, Kent, ME20 7XA. Tel: 08430 225551 www.lipscomb.co.uk WWW.ABARTHCARS.CO.UK

Abarth 500 1.4 16v Turbo fuel cons mpg (l/100km): urban 33.2 (8.5) / extra-urban 52.3 (5.4) / combined 43.5 (6.5), CO2 emissions: 155g/km. Offer subject to availability on existing stock cars registered

between October 1st and December 31st 2011. Finance subject to status. Guarantees/indemnities may be required. Further charges may be made subject to the condition of the vehicle if the vehicle is returned at the end of the finance agreement (a charge of 6p per mile for exceeding 10,000 miles per annum in this example). Abarth Financial Services, PO Box 108, Leeds, LS27 0WU. Lipscomb, Performance House, Forstal Road, Aylesford, Maidstone, Kent, ME20 7XA. We work with a number of creditors to provide finance to our customers, including Abarth Financial Services.

MOTORING

PERFECTION IS POSSIBLE

T H E

Aston Martin V

I

W O R D S

R

A N D

A

P H O T O S

G B Y

L U K E

E Y A T E S

THERE IS A CERTAIN ARROGANCE, A SELF-MADE CLAIM OF GREATNESS AND AUTHORITY THAT MANY MOTORING WRITERS TEND TO ASSUME. WE WIELD POWER, AND INTELLECT, AS WE IMPART OUR WISE WORDS, AND AMAZINGLY WITTY AND PITHY OBSERVATIONS ON YOU, THE HUMBLE READER. OH YES, WE ARE SO VERY CLEVER. ALMOST A BIT LIKE STEPHEN FRY, BUT WITH FAR LESS TWEETING.

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Consequently any vehicle that has the fortune, nay, privilege of finding itself under our temporary care and attention, has an almost impossibly tall order to fulfill. It must impress. It must dazzle and excite with chic looks, powerful engines, and a cool interior. In short – it has to have the “xfactor” (preferably without Louis Walsh). And woe to any that are weighed, are measured, and are found wanting.

Perhaps this is how I too thought, until recently.

Until my encounter with true, actual greatness.

Pray silence please, for the the Aston Martin Virage.

I heard it before I saw it, an unmistakable sound heralding its arrival, like a fanfair. As this magnificent car swept up the street, ably driven by wheel-man extraordinaire, insideKENT's Adam Ready, who had dressed proper smart for this auspicious occasion, the tables were turned, and I suddenly felt humbled beyond belief. Coming face to face with one of these legendary cars in my high street was no less jaw-droppingly awesome than it would have been bumping into Sir Michael Caine in the paper shop.

Suddenly I felt I had to impress this car, and not vice-versa; that I had to measure up to the Virage's high standards, its sense of perfection, beauty and awesomeness. And I felt I had a lot of work to do.

I am somewhat ashamed to confess, dear reader, that so nervous was I on entering the car, that it took a good few minutes to get the almost

seamless and aesthetic door handle to perform its function, as I fumbled with it like a nervous adolescent with his first bra strap, giggling and blushing as I did so. Eventually the beautifully sculpted door glided open, revealing an interior that took my breath away. You don't so much climb into an Aston as faint in awe and fall into the seat.

And when you do sit down, it's as if you have just entered the earth's outer-atmosphere and are suddenly weightless. Easing oneself into the Virage's luxuriant leather seats is a truly surreal experience; a mix of pampering with prestigious ceremony - you feel as if you've just had a cuddle from Kate Middleton.

A car that shares the name with a previous incarnation of an Aston from the 80s which received rather cruel (and I personally think, rather unfair) reviews from the petrolheads of yore, the latest car to take the name Virage shares some of the best looking bits from the old version, whilst the front end sports an unmistakeably modern-day, jaw-droppingly gorgeous Aston look. And unlike its unfortunate ancestor, this car is definitely not going to get negative reviews, having already been voted ‘Classic Car Of The Future’ in Germany, and Aston Martin have been voted ‘Coolest Brand’ in the UK – beating the likes of Apple and Bang & Olufsen. And rightly so, if you ask me.

When confronted by this masterpiece of design, the manly grille, the wide wheels, the curvaceous

rear-end and attractive rear-panel, it's impossible to think of anyone who would turn their nose up at a ride in this amazing looking car.

Inside, you are treated to lightweight sports seats and special trim. A SatNav screen slides smoothly and effortlessly from within the central (wooden) dash panel, surrounded by all the familiar controls, instruments and switchgear as found in the current range of Astons. And thanks to the Virage's GT status, the boot is a pretty respectable size too.

The car rolled away gracefully and effortlessly, every head turning as we passed. Two men travelling in any other coupé car would receive scathing looks and predictable insults muttered behind hands. With the Virage, people just gazed on, as if in an awe-inspired trance.

Once on the open road on a gloriously sunny autumn day, the car cruised as if it were on a river, not a road. With the roof down, sitting behind that fabulous sounding 5935cc V12 powerhouse, I had the feeling I was not in a car, but in some luxury Italian hand-made speedboat.

The car wound its way around the bends of the old road up from Hythe to Lympne effortlessly and smoothly, giving a feeling of refined power and class, handling superbly and giving a feeling of control at all times, something that was complimented well by the low seating, as well as the great position of the instruments.

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MOTORING

ASTON MARTIN VIRAGE Price as tested: £159,995 Top speed: 186mph 0-62mph: 4.6 seconds Economy: Combined 18.8mpg CO2: 349g/km Kerb weight: 1785kg Engine: V12, 5935cc, petrol Power: 490bhp at 6500rpm Torque: 420lb ft at 5750rpm Gearbox: Six-speed auto with electronic shift-by-wire control system

Every now and again a gentle encouragement with the accelerator lifted the nose, squeezed you back into your comfy seat, and reminded you that this was not only a luxury car, but a true sports car in every way, right down to the flappy paddle gear changing system. A sports car that can eat up 0-60 in under 5 seconds, whilst sounding like nothing else on this earth can.

Not so much a mere roar, the godlike utterance from an Aston Martin is the most amazing, most beautiful and most powerful thing I have ever experienced in any car, and a noise I could listen to all day, every day, until I went deaf. In fact, I was tempted to record it as my new ring tone, but I didn't fancy destroying a perfectly good phone speaker, or scaring old ladies to death at the bus stop.

And the sense of total control is completed in the fabulous carbon ceramic brakes, which have fine sensitivity and will certainly bring you to a halt firmly and decisively, when required.

The first thing I usually do when confronted with a new car to photograph, rather like I do with a model in my studio, is walk around it and find the ‘best bits’ - the angles which present it in the best light, whilst hiding the bits that are perhaps slightly less photogenic.

Once again the Virage turned the tables and challenged me, and my normal work process. It wasn't so much a case of trying to find the best bits, as knowing when to stop photographing it.

Very rarely do you find somebody or something

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so very beautiful, so utterly flawless, that you can photograph it and find every single shot looks like a London Gallery masterpiece. With speakers embedded in the doors that can be adjusted for optimum sound, a wood dashboard with enough equipment to be luxurious without ever looking tacky or crowded, and so very many curves, the Virage achieved this instantaneously with no effort on my part.

Stamped on the footplate of the Virage underneath the Aston Martin logo, are the words ‘Hand built in England’. Inferring something truly wonderful – that every nut and bolt contained within this magnificent sports GT was assembled on this fair isle, by real live humans, because Aston Martin believed in their hearts that this was the very best way it could be done. And that makes me feel as extremely proud of being British as when James Bond opened his Union Jack parachute in The Spy Who Loved Me. And yes, I just referred to James Bond in an article about an Aston Martin. So sue me.

They say you should never meet your heroes, but usually this saying infers that if you do, they will disappoint you. In the case of the Virage however, it's a very different scenario; meeting your hero leaves you feeling utterly inadequate.

All of your achievements, success and brilliance thus far will never ever match the fact that somebody, somewhere, designed and made this car. Correction – ‘created’ this car. Because something this incredible cannot be called a mere thing, and cannot be built in a mere factory. It's

a magical creature - like a unicorn.

That said, by the same token, the greatness of this car will inspire you to aspire to be great, its majesty will leave you feeling like a king as you drive to the shops for a paper, and even though this will shatter the belief system and ridicule the stereotypical cynicism, sarcasm and ridiculously high standards of all the wannabe Jez Clarksons out there in blog land, it is living, breathing, mechanical proof that perfection on this earth, is possible.

Special thanks to Port Lympne Zoo for the use of their magnificent mansion and grounds, and to the prestigious London Golf Club for access to their beautiful courses and scenery.

Port Lympne Zoo www.aspinallfoundation.org London Golf Clug www.londongolf.co.uk

Lancaster Sevenoaks 114-115 London Road Riverhead, Sevenoaks TN13 2DN 01732 456777 www.jardinemotors.co.uk/aston-martin

THE

insideKENT

GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFT GIVEAWAY HERE YOU’LL NOT ONLY FIND THE HOTTEST CHRISTMAS GIFTS, BUT FOR ONE LUCKY KENT RESIDENT THIS COULD BE THE CHRISTMAS OF A LIFETIME. YOU COULD WIN OVER £1,500 IN FABULOUS GIFTS AND GOODIES, FROM OVERNIGHT BREAKS TO AUDIO SYSTEMS TO PANTO TICKETS. WE’VE SEARCHED NEAR AND FAR FOR THE BEST PRESSIES FOR 2011, AND YOU COULD BE THE RECIPIENT OF EACH AND EVERY ONE OF OUR TOP PICKS. HOW’S THAT FOR CHRISTMAS SPIRIT?

For your chance to win all of the prizes below, enter online* at www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk/giftgiveaway No Peeping!

“At Christmas we always went through the old routine of ‘close your eyes, no peeping, it’s a surprise’. Needless to say it wasn’t. The present’s hiding place had already been plundered, the sticky tape carefully lifted and the gift revealed days before! It still happens to this day in my house!” Neil Buchanan, creator of BAFTA award-winning Art Attack & HOPE STREET fine art collection.

Art Attic Publishing is delighted to add some cheeky Christmas cheer to one lucky insideKENT winner’s walls with No Peeping! This delightful limited edition print (43cm x 53cm) is personally signed by Neil Buchanan, comes beautifully gift boxed with a certificate of authenticity and a souvenir brochure chronicling the extraordinary life of ‘The Art Attack Man’. Neil Buchanan’s HOPE STREET features 12 limited edition prints and the nostalgic collection is based on the artist’s childhood memories growing up in the 1960s.

Gift value: £300 / www.neilbuchanan.co.uk

Vivien of Holloway Dress

Vivien of Holloway have quite a reputation for making you ladies look and feel fabulous in their vintage inspired dresses. And what better excuse is there for dressing up in your finery than the upcoming festive season with a £95 voucher to spend on the dress of your choice? With their beautifully authentic 1940s and 50s reproduction ready-to-wear ladies clothing, they’ll make sure that you’re looking your pin-up best this Christmas and New Year. Choose from stock dresses, separates, accessories and hair flowers both online and in-store. Pop into the London boutique and let those wonderful shop girls transform you into a 1950s bombshell or simply take a peek at the website. Gift value: £95 www.vivienofholloway.com 294 Holloway Road London N7 6NJ

Jan Constantine Cushion

Original and beautiful designs are Jan Constantine’s bread and butter.

With meticulous attention to detail and the highest quality craftsmanship using natural cottons linens and wools, Jan’s Christmas Collection brings instant festive cheer. The vibrant and iconic designs are a must have for any home or the perfect gift for that special person. Launching her hand-embroidery business in 2002, with an exquisite range of original designs for textiles and home accessories, Jan now supplies Harrods, Liberty of London, Selfridges, Fortnum and Mason and John Lewis in the UK and several independent shops around the world.

Gift value approximately £80 / www.janconstantine.com

The Great Christmas Gift Giveaway winner can choose one of the beautiful cushions in the photo shown for their very own.

*No purchase necessary, must be 18 or over and a Kent resident to enter. Only one entry per person. Entries must be received by 1pm on 14 December 2011 to be eligible to win.

Winner will be chosen at random and notified by 16 December 2011 via email. Terms and conditions apply - individual terms and conditions (if any) are listed below each gift’s description.

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Paper Jamz Pro Guitar & Pro Microphone

The Bluebeards Revenge Ultimate Shaving Kit

Millions of men all over the world share a common problem – tough stubble that defies the attentions of every shaving product known to man.

These men are known as ‘Bluebeards’. Finally, they can breathe a manly sigh of relief with a shaving solution that works! Not only does it contain a unique formula to combat thick stubble, razor rash, bumps and burn, it’s also the only shaving cream on the market to contain Decelerine, a formula scientifically proven to reduce beard growth by around 40% in 60 days. insideKENT have a Bluebeards Revenge Ultimate Shaving Kit to give away. This burly set contains a tub of luxury shaving cream, pre shave oil, post shave balm, shaving brush, Mach3 razor and silver technology antiperspirant deodorant. For real men only.

Gift value: £75 / www.bluebeards-revenge.co.uk

Rocking out has just gone up a notch with the completely new Paper Jamz Pro Guitar. With amazing new features including real chords and individual notes, Paper Jamz Pro Guitar plays like a true instrument.

With the Pro Mic, enjoy Perfect Pitch vocal-tuning technology and four other voice-enhancing effects to transform you into a singing sensation.

The Pro Mic comes with two songs for instant play and you can also install new music and sing like your favourite stars.

Gift value: £79.98 / www.paperjamzpro.com

The Great Christmas Gift Giveaway winner will win the Paper Jamz Pro Guitar and Paper Jamz Pro Microphone shown.

Flex Sports Earphones

Vintage Playing Card Clock

The ideal Christmas gift for the design conscious, this ‘Tick Tock’ clock is made from vintage playing cards individually sourced from 1920’s parlour games. With meticulous attention to detail, the cards are then double mounted with cream and black and set with a quartz clock mechanism into a black wood box frame. Stylish, retro and unique - each Vintage Playing Card piece is a true original.

Gift value: £75 / www.vintageplayingcards.co.uk

Stress Away Spa Day

105 minutes of rebalancing bliss at the beautiful Rowhill Grange Utopia Spa. Hide away in the gorgeous spa dipping in and out of pools, sauna, hot tubs and relaxation rooms, plus enjoy a delicious two-course lunch and have a wonderfully powerful combination of treatments that include total body exfoliation and a prescription facial – leaving you fully recharged and rejuvenated – the most thoughtful Christmas present.

Gift value: £185 / www.rowhillgrange.co.uk The Great Christmas Gift Giveaway winner will receive a Stress Away Spa Day for one. Dates subject to availability.

Cineworld Tickets

Whether you're a professional athlete or a gym newbie, be right on-trend the latest must-have sports accessory from Radiopaq - 'Flex' designer earphones.

The Flex's thoughtful and unique design is accentuated through a choice of highlighted colours, including this season’s sought-after copper. Leave a space in your Christmas stocking for a pair of these outstanding earphones.

Gift value: £24.99 / www.radiopaqproducts.com

Meal for Two at Picture House, Canterbury

Recently launched, Picture House is fast becoming Canterbury’s top restaurant and night-spot. Picture House brings a slice of London to Canterbury’s High Street by creating perfect synergy between eating, drinking and partying. Everything is cooked from scratch, from the outstanding burgers and scotch eggs right down to the ketchup and mayo - it’s ALL made fresh on the premises. Gift value approximately £50 / www.picturehousecanterbury.com The Great Christmas Gift Giveaway winner will receive a 3-course meal for two, not including drinks. Booking subject to availability.

The Multiway Dress from In One Clothing

Once the secret of the fashionistas, multiway clothing is now available to all. The star of the show is the Multiway Dress. With up to 14 dresses in one, the Multiway Dress allows a different outfit every night and means that travelling light is no work at all. If your wardrobe is full but you still have nothing to wear, then slim it down with In One Clothing’s other ranges of dresses, scarves and wraps which transform to fit any occasion. Gift value: £89 / www.inoneclothing.com The Great Christmas Gift Giveaway winner will receive a knee-length Multiway Dress from In One Clothing in the size and colour of your choice.

For those really picky people on your list, why not give them entertainment and choice wrapped up in one neat little package? Cineworld Gift Cards are the perfect present for both under the tree and stuffed in a stocking.

Gift value: £70 / www.cineworld.co.uk The Great Christmas Gift Giveaway winner will receive 8 Cineworld tickets.

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Microlab Hi-Fi Audio System

Enhance your iPod experience in the home! This High Fidelity speaker system with iPod dock/charge (compatible with most iPods, iTouches & iPhones) is your answer to getting your iPod tunes heard loud and clear in the home. Microlab’s iDock system features Microlab expertise in speaker technology and brings out the best in media player audio spectrum. It is able to enhance and produce the digital playback sound to the finest standards. It is also a superb AM/FM radio with alarm facility, a cool LED display and it also comes with a fully functional remote control so you don’t even have to get up to turn down (or up) or change your tune.

Gift value: £199.99 / www.HOTcraze.co.uk

Four Tickets to Sleeping Beauty

Pantomime season is almost upon us and Sleeping Beauty is on her way to Tunbridge Wells. One of the most magical fairy tales of them all will be brought from page to stage in a spectacular production.

Stunning scenery, lavish costumes, great music and plenty of laughs combine to make Sleeping Beauty the ideal Christmas treat. The talented cast includes Glynis Barber (Dempsey & Makepeace, EastEnders) as the Bad Fairy, Derek Moran (Channel 5’s Milkshake) as Silly Billy, Christopher Beeny (Upstairs/Downstairs, Last of the Summer Wine) as the King and Charles Burden as Nanny Glucose and Sophia Thierens as Sleeping Beauty. Book now and it won’t be long until you’re ‘booing and hissing’ at the Bad Fairy and marvelling at this true love story that will make Christmas extra special.

Gift value approximately £75 / www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk Box office 01892 530613 / 532072 The Great Christmas Gift Giveaway winner will receive a family ticket (4) to one performance of Sleeping Beauty. Not valid Christmas Eve, Boxing Day or New Year’s Eve. Subject to availability.

Marjolaine Silk Chemise Marjolaine designs classically seductive nightwear with a modern twist. All their beautiful pieces are produced in France to the highest standard. This 100% silk chemise by Marjolaine is just one of the fabulous styles in stock at Josh Lingerie and the perfect gift for the lady in your life. You could be the lucky winner of this beautiful piece, just in time for the Christmas festivities.

Gift value: £125 www.joshlingerie.com 41 High Street West Malling ME19 6QH The Great Christmas Gift Giveaway winner will receive a Marjolaine Silk Chemise in the size of your choice, subject to availability.

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Sweet William Tea Set

Sweet William is a small, independent studio based in Greenwich, London. All of their ceramics are lovingly hand decorated and designed in-house. The key criterion for all Sweet William ceramics is that they are fun, warm your heart and have a nostalgic feel. But most importantly that they will be enjoyed everyday and not left on a shelf collecting dust. Life’s too short to save anything for best! Embrace the spirit of nostalgia and recreate your own Jubilee street party with Sweet William’s exquisite hand designed Quintessentially British bunting range.

Gift value: £89 / www.sweetwilliamdesigns.com The Great Christmas Gift Giveaway winner will receive a Sweet William Large Teapot, two Large Bunting Mugs and a Small Jug. Egg cups, plate, large jug and accessories shown in the image are not included in the prize.

Love Letter Cushions

A Luxury Night at the ABode, Canterbury

Want to give something extra special? Give a luxury night’s stay at the fabulous ABode, Canterbury. A night in one of their Enviable Suites, followed by a full breakfast the next morning is bound to make a lasting impression this Christmas.

Gift value: £250 / www. abodehotels.co.uk/canterbury

Luxury Love Letters are just what they say they are – luxurious! With five shades of 100% pure Irish Linen with contrasting linen piping, they make the most wonderful personal gift for someone special.

The winner can choose one luxury love letter cushion in any letter with your choice of five fabrics. If your name isn’t drawn out of the hat this time round you can still get 15% off anything that takes your fancy on the Jonny’s Sister website up until 1st Jan 2012. Just quote the insideKENT exclusive discount code IKM10 at the checkout.

Gift value: £65 www.jonnyssister.co.uk

The Great Christmas Gift Giveaway winner will receive a one-night stay for two in an Enviable Suite at ABode, Canterbury including breakfast.

Subject to availability.

Redken ‘Flavours’ from Harrisons Hair Team

Redken has now released this year’s Christmas offering, packed in a funky tin and featuring four favourite Redken ‘flavours’! All the packs contain shampoo and conditioner and mean a 20% discount from the individual shelf price, available from Harrisons Hair Team. Step into Harrisons and discover a sanctuary where you will benefit from attentive award-winning expertise, from a team that wants to bring out the best in you.

Gift value: £19.60 www.harrisonshairteam.co.uk The Great Christmas Gift Giveaway winner will receive a Redken tin of your choice.

JOIN US FOR

CHRISTMAS 2011 Packages start at £37pp Party Nights on Saturday 10th and Friday 16th December, or why not build your own package with many dates available for Christmas lunches, dinners, parties and events.

To book or for more information, contact our events team on: E

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Stansted Lane, Ash, Kent, TN15 7EH

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Josh enjoy the wrapping.

For a change this Christmas...

LINGERIE

Don’t be scared of buying underwear, we are here to help with a glass of mulled wine and mince pies, together with expert help and guidance.

Basques, matching thongs and boy shorts Sensual nightwear from Marjolaine and Jane Woolrich Lace top stockings, hold-ups and garters Bras, thongs and suspender belts.

01732 668184 www.joshlingerie.com

41 High Street West Malling Kent ME19 6QH

Please note: Josh Lingerie will close at 5.00pm - 24th December and re-open at 9.30am - 28th December.

ENTERTAINMENT

STEINWAY LYNGDORF

Launches the Future at Leeds Castle

THE PAST AND FUTURE CAME TOGETHER IN FINE STYLE AT LEEDS CASTLE ON 15TH AND 16TH SEPTEMBER, AS SOUND SYSTEM INNOVATOR STEINWAY LYNGDORF CHOSE KENT FOR THE UK LAUNCH OF ITS AWARD-WINNING MODEL S AUDIO SPEAKER. The 900-year-old castle made a dramatic backdrop for the ultimate in music and home cinema sound quality. Specially invited guests at the exclusive gathering were treated to the muchawaited Model S experience: remarkably trueto-life stereo and surround sound delivered by speakers which, for their power and sheer audio quality, are amazingly compact.

The Model S brings hitherto-unimagined music and home cinema sound quality to homes, reception areas, yachts and anywhere else where space may be limited but expectations aren’t.

The Maiden’s Tower proved a perfect setting for theatre-style demonstrations of the Steinway Lyngdorf ambience. In the adjacent marquee a genuine Steinway grand piano produced further ravishing sounds - which also served to confirm how true to reality the Model S actually is.

As a company Steinway Lyngdorf has a matchless pedigree in the world of sound. It’s a collaboration between Steinway and Sons, creators of the world’s finest pianos, and Peter Lyngdorf, one of the foremost audio technology pioneers of our

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time. As you’d expect, their products are at the high end of the scale. At Leeds Castle, Kent’s invited connoisseurs were suitably impressed by the ambience in every respect.

The event was hosted by Sound Integration of Canterbury, Potters of Tenterden and Gecko (the UK distributor of Steinway Lyngdorf). Sound Integration and Potters specialise in offering the ultimate in audio-visual integration and installation – bringing together sound, pictures, climate control, security and ambience – creating the optimum home entertainment environment.

The event also featured exhibits by viewing system innovators Kaleidescape and control and automation masters Crestron - providing a complete overview of home entertainment possibilities at the peak of current potential.

Sound Integration, Canterbury 01227 760044 www.soundintegration.co.uk Potters Home Digital, Tenterden 01580 762864 www.home-digital.com

ENTERTAINMENT

insideKENT EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH

JAMES&OLAJORDAN insideKENT’s ADAM READY HAD THE PLEASURE OF SPEAKING TO KENT RESIDENTS AND STARS OF HIT TV SHOW STRICTLY COME DANCING, JAMES & OLA JORDAN. How did you guys first meet?

J: We first met when Ola was dancing in a competition in England. I remember watching her dance, thinking she was a lovely dancer. Myself and my previous dancing partner stopped dancing with each other as we didn’t have the same ideas.

I called Ola to arrange a try-out. I flew to Poland, then two weeks later she moved to England to dance with me.

Ola, how did you feel when you got the call from James?

O: It was brilliant; I was a bit younger than James in a younger category in competitions. He was very good and I was quite happy to come to England to dance. I was very excited actually.

You turned professional in 2003; did you both have other careers prior to that alongside dancing? How did you decide that was the time to focus full time on dancing?

J: Ola had just left school when I had the try-outs with her, she was only 17. I was working on the power stations in Medway with my father who was the site manager.

I was working to pay for the dancing. Then it got to a point when I was offered a contract in Hong Kong to teach. We both decided to move to Hong Kong and I was able to give up my job.

What was it like to teach dance in Hong Kong together?

J: it was good, we were teaching people at all different levels; some competitive couples and a lot of single lessons where ladies come in and want to learn how to dance.

You moved back to Kent from Hong Kong, what do enjoy the most about living in the county?

J: Its quiet, it’s peaceful. After living in Hong Kong permanently for four years it’s very built up – it’s a big city, very fast. Both of us felt it was too much. I like Kent because it’s much quieter.

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What are your favourite places to visit in the county?

O: My favourite place in Kent would be Bluewater; I could spend hours in there! I love Kent, I like getting away from London obviously because we work there. It’s so nice and green. We bought a new house and it’s absolutely brilliant here in Kent.

going to be hard but going to try and teach her the best I possibly can to make her good.

James, you were born in Gillingham where Kent’s only ice bowl is. Can you transfer your dancing to the ice rink?

J: I’m a man of many talents, but I’ve never been big into ice skating. As a kid, like most kids at some point you go ice skating. I haven’t been for 20 years but I’m sure I’m quite coordinated so I could pick it up very quickly. I wouldn’t be able to ice skate like ice hockey players or ice dancers. I think I would be ok-ish.

And Ola, you are partnered with Robbie Savage. Is he a natural at picking up the moves?

O: I don’t think so; he is not a natural dancer, he has not really danced at all. He doesn’t even listen to the music. It’s not going to be easy for him and not going to be easy for me. What Robbie has got is that he works really hard and wants to put the hours in and is very committed.

J: The funny thing was in the first week Ola tried to get him to do a knee slide; she said you must have done a knee slide before.

O: He said ok, ok, I can do it. Then he made a noise and said that hurt. He had a screw in his knee; he had six operations for his knee and was like “Oh that’s great!”

Ola, do you get much time to visit your homeland of Poland? What do you miss when you’re not there?

O: I go about three times a year; what I miss most is my family as I only see them three times a year. I miss the food, I love polish food so I miss that as well.

How many hours a week will you spend training with your partners? Do you find much time to spend with each other?

O: It’s very difficult because I travel to Manchester to train with Robbie so I don’t get to see James very much right now. I do train with Robbie about 7-8 hours a day. A lot of work.

Do you both teach dance in Kent?

J: We do teach but not that often because we are so busy doing shows and tours. Normally once Strictly is over we do one day a month where we teach all day. I’m sure at one point we will set up a dance school or something.

Is there a little rivalry between you when the show starts?

J: We do support each other. If Ola asked for some help, I help and vice versa. In the 5 series I have beaten Ola 3 times and she has only beaten me twice. Although she does have the glitter ball. I have that one over her on the series at the moment.

O: I think winning the series must rule that out, it must do; I am the better teacher so there you go. I won. Does that answer your question? YES we are very competitive.

J: She is nothing without me; I made her what she is!

O: Yeah, yeah, yeah!

Ola, how did you feel after winning Strictly Come Dancing in 2009? How did that compare to the other achievements throughout your career?

O: Strictly is different because you take one person who has never danced before and you teach them all these things that you know. Months and months of training and hard work every day, so it’s a great achievement when you finally win.

J: Especially with someone like Chris Hollins who was favourite to go out in week one. He wasn’t a massive celebrity name, quite a short guy. Last year’s winner Kara was favourite from week one.

Ola is the only person to win Strictly Come Dancing with someone who never danced before and wasn’t one of the favourites, which I think is a massive achievement.

Training and competing on Strictly often looks exhausting; do you have to follow strict diets to maintain physical fitness or is the exercise enough?

O: I try to eat well, with healthy and good food.

During Strictly we work so hard and we’re so tired we’ve to keep going but keep the energy up.

J: We eat the right amount of carbs and protein.

We train like a sports person so what goes into your body is very important.

James, this year you are partnered with BBC One Show’s Alex Jones. How is training going so far? Could this be your year after reaching the final last year?

J: Too early to say, she’s a lovely lovely girl and a brilliant person. I can’t understand everything she says because she has got a really strong Welsh accent!

As far as her dancing is concerned she has never danced before, which became quite obvious to me when I started teaching her. It’s

Is it very competitive backstage between the professional dancers?

J: Some of the professional dancers do, I won’t mention any names, maybe take it a little too seriously and they get a bit itchy as it means so much to them.

Like myself, Brendan, Anton and Vincent – we have lots of banter between us, but it’s harmless banter and really good fun.

You’re famous for appearing on Strictly Come Dancing, what does the rest of the year hold for you both?

J: We do the celebrity Strictly tour, then we have our own shows. We travel around the country doing charity and corporate events and dance lessons, things like that. Busy all year round really.

How did you come to specialise in Latin American, what is it you love about it?

J: For me it was the girls wearing next to nothing and getting to put my hands all over their bodies!

I thought there could be a lot worse things out there I could be doing. I love it, dancing with hot chicks all the time! My mates say when they were playing football I was off with the girls.

O: I loved it from when I was young; I always wanted to be a dancer.

Strictly is a great family show that the kids enjoy too. What advice would you give to any children in Kent who watch the programme and are inspired to take up ballroom dancing?

J: All I can say from my point of view is that there’s still a lack of boys dancing. Possibly it’s because their fathers think it’s something that boys shouldn’t do. When the boys get to a certain age they will be happy they started dancing!

Catch James & Ola on Strictly Come Dancing on BBC One on Saturday and Sunday evenings.

For more info on Ola’s official 2012 calendar, visit the brand new look website at www.jamesandola.com Follow both James & Ola on Twitter @StrictlyJordan @StrictlyOla

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ENTERTAINMENT

Instant

Rock Star

FOR THOSE OF US NOT MUSICALLY INCLINED, WE’VE BEEN DOOMED TO SIT IN THE SIDELINES TO LIP SYNC AND PLAY THE AIR GUITAR TO OUR FAVOURITE TUNES. BUT NOW WE CAN TAKE THE STAGE AND BE ROCK STARS TOO WITH THE NEW PAPER JAMZ PRO GUITAR AND PRO MICROPHONE. Not just for kids (trust us, we had a go at the insideKENT office and had trouble putting them down), the Pro Guitar and Pro Mic are the perfect Christmas gifts for anyone. Really, anyone. We can’t image someone not having fun with these things.

Paper Jamz Pro Guitar

Pro Microphone from Paper Jamz Pro series (as seen demoed by Katy B Something for the Weekend)

Rocking out has just gone up a notch with the completely new Paper Jamz Pro Guitar.

With amazing new features including real chords and individual notes, Paper Jamz Pro Guitar plays like a true instrument. Now you can hit the stage and perform like your rock heroes for real, impressing the crowd with sounds and effects you normally only get on a fully kitted electric guitar such as a working ripstrip and a built-in accelerometer.

Download the Paper Jamz Pro App and you can customise and add your own music, plus install different guitar sounds. With the new Paper Jamz Pro Guitar you can become the rock god of your dreams.

With Perfect Pitch vocal-tuning technology and four other voice-enhancing effects, your vocals will be transformed to sound like a singing sensation. The Pro Mic comes with two songs for instant play, but you are not limited to that.

Simply download the Paper Jamz Pro App for PC and Mac, connect the Pro Mic via USB and you can install new music and sing like your favourite stars. Available in three cool designs for both guys and gals.

For more info, visit www.paperjamzpro.com.

win A PAPER JAMZ PRO GUITAR AND PRO MIC! For your chance to win a Paper Jamz Pro Guitar and Pro Mic, enter insideKENT’s Great Christmas Gift Giveaway, where one lucky insideKENT reader will win not only the Pro Guitar and Pro Mic, but over £1,500 worth of prizes! See page 108 for details.

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WHAT WOULD YOU GIVE TO SPEND

Time With Your Hero?

PRO DONO: Fundraising with Famous Faces

Pro Dono is a not-for-profit organisation which arranges one-to-one experiences with famous and influential figures (‘Ambassadors’) to raise money for charity. Pro Dono launched on 27 September 2011 at The Foundling Museum, London.

The Pro Dono Ambassadors — of which there are over 100 — include 11 politicians, 8 Michelin-starred chefs, 6 newspaper editors, 2 Olympic gold medallists, 12 industry leaders and 2 Hollywood actors. They offer their time to meet for a lunch, dinner or activity relating to their area of expertise (for example, a cookery lesson with Raymond Blanc; a tour of Westminster with Ann Widdecombe; afternoon tea with Geoffrey Boycott at Lord’s).

The public can choose their Ambassador and submit their donation through www.prodono.co.uk, and donations are then made to the Ambassador’s chosen charity.

Pro Dono’s Ambassadors are drawn from all walks of public life, and include Nicholas Parsons, Ann Widdecombe, Alastair Campbell, Dame Jacqueline Wilson, Raymond Blanc, Kriss Akabusi, Geoff Eales, James Naughtie, Sir Patrick Moore, Stephanie Flanders, Peter Tatchell, Geoffrey Boycott, Dame Stephanie Shirley, Lord Nigel Lawson, Professor Lord Robert Winston, Ian Paice, Charles Clarke and Evan Davis, who are raising money for well over 100 different charities.

The raison d’être behind Pro Dono is to incentivise giving in a new way: turning individuals who may not be proactive donors into supporters of charities, by inviting them to participate in a huge wealth of unforgettable, bespoke experiences that give not once, but twice.

In co-founder Glen Jeffries’ words, Pro Dono “attracts members of the public perhaps looking for a memorable experience or special gift, who were not necessarily thinking of donating to a good cause at that particular point in time. It widens the net of possible donors by hopefully offering that unique gift solution (the perfect Christmas present?) everyone has been looking for.”

Pro Dono was featured in the Government’s May Giving White Paper as an example of a model which “creates a virtuous, sustainable circle of giving.”

Pro Dono has already organised four meetings raising nearly £20,000, and hopes that with the success of its formal launch, it will continue to raise more significant donations for charities of all sizes and causes.

Raymond Blanc, Michelin-starred chef and Pro Dono Ambassador, raising money for The Gray Institute for Radiation Oncology and Biology, says of Pro Dono, “Good deeds, engaging company and great experiences – and all for charity. Fantastic.”

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GADGETS

HAPPY CHRISTMAS FROM HOTcraze

in association with

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EXCLUSIVE discount to insideKENT readers! Use this code to claim 10% off your next order from www.HOTcraze.co.uk :

KENT10%

Remote Control Insect Cy-Bug – Termapod or Exoforce They have landed! The HOTtest craze! The Remote Control Cy-Bugs are incredibly life-like remote control bugs with the most creepy-crawly movement and, most importantly, they are at war!

There are two armies, Exoforce and the Termapods, each of which is identified by the colour of their creepy Cy-Bug legs.

The white-legged Exoforce are hiding from the Termapods on Earth, which puts Earth in danger as the Termapods swarm the galaxy to find and fight Exoforce. Collect all 6 characters in each army.

Remote Control Insect Cy-Bug : £20.48 (RRP: £22.99) from www.HOTcraze.co.uk

Recordable Talking Photo Album

Click Wireless Optical Car Mouse

Every picture tells a story. Well now it is absolutely true! With this great gadget you can actually record a personal voice message to go with every one of the 24 photos in this ingenious voice-over Digital Talking Photo Album.

Finally your most desired cars are within reach! Drive your PC in style with a wireless car mouse based on your favourite car brand and model with these highly detailed and officially licensed car mice.

If you choose to change the photos in the album, you can re-record over the old digital recordings, so that it will always stay relevant to the photos in the album.

Recordings are saved, even when the batteries are changed. This will also make a great gift for any special occasion and it's a great way to share your memories with your loved ones. Available in: Red or White with Foot print design.

Recordable Talking Photo Album : £33.00 (RRP: £39.99) from www.HOTcraze.co.uk

They really stand out above the rest in terms of quality, which is why companies such as Aston Martin, Land Rover and BMW are happy to put their name to them.

Now you can tell your friends that you got that classic car and if you're lucky enough to have one in your driveway, these mice are perfect as you can take them with you when you drive down the super highway. Models available: BMW Z4, Mini Cooper S, Aston Martin DBS or Land Rover Evoque Click Wireless Optical Car Mouse: £39.99 from www.HOTcraze.co.uk

THE LATEST GADGETS AND GIZMOS from the Number 1 Kent Online Gadget Site.

FREE DELIVERY on all orders and a FREE Gift with all orders over £30.

05601 264421

www.HOTcraze.co.uk www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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Happily

LONDON

E V E R A F T E R

FAIRY TALE CREATURES, TALKING DONKEYS, DISGUSTING (YET LOVEABLE) OGRES AND A HAPPILY EVER AFTER. WE’RE ALL FAMILIAR WITH THE AWARD-WINNING ANIMATED FILM SHREK, BUT NEVER BEFORE HAVE WE SEEN THE CHARACTERS IN SUCH A SPECTACULAR SETTING. B Y D O N N A M A R T I N Photos by Brinkhoff Mögenburg Richard Blackwood as Donkey and Nigel Lindsay as Shrek

The Dragon and Richard Blackwood as Donkey

The Company of Shrek The Musical

Nigel Lindsay as Shrek and Nigel Harman as Lord Farquaad

Like many film-turned-musical shows, I wasn’t so sure about seeing the characters – especially Shrek – turned into singing, dancing performers; something they weren’t originally intended to be.

Sometimes it’s best to leave well enough alone.

But with Shrek, the musical works, and works well.

The show’s premise is much like the film, with a few new twists injected to keep it fresh and interesting. When the curtains rose for the opening scene, I was immediately sucked into the colourful sets and memorable characters. Shrek, played

by Nigel Lindsay, stormed onto stage with the same force and rude demeanour as his animated inspiration – flatulence and all.

All our favourite fairy tale creatures were there, including the Gingerbread Man, the Three Little Pigs, Pinocchio and the cross-dressing Big Bad Wolf. The evil and vertically challenged Lord Farquaad, played by Nigel Harman, stole the show, dancing around on his knees with prop legs clad in bright yellow tights strapped to his thighs. A man running around on his knees is funny enough without the fake legs, but Harman truly embraced the part and made even the most stoic audience member laugh.

about 30 seconds, was utterly spellbound during the entire show. A huge dragon flying over the heads of the audience and tap-dancing rats – who could be bored?

Bad manners aren’t something I normally condone, but I just couldn’t help cracking up at the belch and fart duet between Shrek and Fiona (played by Kimberly Walsh). Though the show is aimed at children – filling a gap in the West End for kid-friendly shows – I had just as good a time as my 8-year-old.

For more info or to book tickets, visit www.shrekthemusical.co.uk

The sets were pure magic, moving and changing with each scene. My 8-year-old companion for the day, who normally has an attention span of

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LONDON IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Christmas

Christmas Lights

From November 2011 From the West End to high streets across London, Christmas lights will be providing festive cheer to shoppers across the city once again this year.

The turning on of the Oxford Street and Regent Street Christmas lights is always a popular affair, with the crowds out in force to see the celebrities flick the switch.

Visitors to the Covent Garden Piazza can browse the markets and boutiques surrounded by a contemporary light installation from the United Visual Artists, giant red baubles, a 32-foot topiary reindeer and a traditional Christmas tree. The Piazza is also hosting a digital painting of the Nativity which shifts and evolves throughout the day.

for two weekends in December the area outside the Southbank Centre will also be hosting the Real Food Christmas Market, with stalls packed full of seasonal treats so you can stock up your cupboards for Christmas or create the perfect hamper for the foodie in your life.

If you’re on the lookout for alternative Christmas presents, the Duckie Christmas Market at The Barbican features stalls stocking indie crafts, retro products and the downright kitsch. Elsewhere, regular markets in Camden, Portobello, Spitalfields and Marylebone will be dusting off the tinsel and welcoming Christmas shoppers with a cheery atmosphere over the festive period. http://xr.com/viewlondonchristmasmarkets

Enchanted Christmas House 26 November – 24 December

Meanwhile, the area around Seven Dials will be illuminated with pink and purple light curtains, while Carnaby is putting on another unusual display to rival last year’s space age theme. For a more traditional festive experience, there’s a series of free carol concerts underneath the huge Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square.

The Oxford Street Christmas lights will be switched on during the evening of Tuesday 1st November 2011, with other light displays on show from November 2011 to early January 2012. http://xr.com/viewlondonchristmaslights

Christmas Markets From November 2011 The perfect complement to high street shopping, the variety of Christmas markets popping up across London offer handmade gifts, artisan food and even drinks such as spiced cider and warming gluhwein to keep you going throughout the day and into the evening.

German markets on the South Bank and in Hyde Park will be selling traditional gifts from picturesque chalets, where you can pick up everything from wooden toys to decorated gingerbread. Meanwhile,

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Going above and beyond the efforts of the average Santa’s grotto, the Enchanted Christmas House is an immersive experience where kids can let their imaginations run wild.

Specially designed with children aged 1-12 in mind, the Enchanted Christmas House features sets and interiors created by a theatrical designer and children’s book illustrator. Kids can take part in craft workshops with the Christmas elves, get baking in the Gingerbread Kitchen, visit the Garden of Winter Wonder and perform in a Puppet Play, as well as enjoy a storytelling session with Mrs Claus.

The highlight of the day for many a child will be the chance to meet Father Christmas himself and enjoy a personal audience with the jolly man in red.

Meanwhile, adults can relax with a helping of mince pies and mulled wine. http://xr.com/viewlondonenchantedchristmas

LONDON IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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Pantomimes From November 2011 London has a marvellous tradition of bringing some really rather splendid pantomimes to town, from am-dram stuff to the incredibly popular, star-studded annual panto at the Hackney Empire. However old you are, pantos are always a surprisingly amusing way to celebrate the yuletide season and Christmas 2011 sees another fine selection of classic tales making their way onto stages across the capital.

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newcomers like the Westfield and the Westfield Stratford, there’s plenty of choice for skaters across the capital and beyond.

And just to make sure you’re well stocked with Christmas spirit, most of these ice rinks serve up hot food, mulled wine and great viewing galleries, so if you’re the type that just wants to watch your friends make fools of themselves, you’ll be well catered for too. http://xr.com/viewlondoniceskating

Winter Wonderland From November 2011 Hyde Park once again welcomes festive revellers galore as the hugely

The renowned Hackney Empire pantomime sees plenty of famous faces once again tread the boards for a unique take on the Cinderella tale – expect something just a little bit subversive, as usual. The Shaw Theatre panto – another of the capital’s favourites – welcomes the tale of Jack, the beanstalk, the golden goose and those very magic beans, whilst Dick Whittington makes his merry way to the New Wimbledon Theatre to meet the one and only Dame Edna Everage who’s in town to play the Saviour of London.

Other pantomime highlights include productions of Aladdin, Little Red Riding Hood, Potted Panto and even Beowulf, so there should certainly be enough innuendo-based buffoonery to keep panto fans very entertained this Christmas. http://xr.com/viewlondonpantomimes

Ice Skating From November 2011

popular Winter Wonderland makes a very welcome return. Open throughout the festive season, this annual highlight boasts everything from a Christmas market and funfair to grottos, seasonal food and beer halls.

In addition to all that traditional yuletide entertainment there’s a huge observation wheel serving up some very nice views of Hyde Park and the capital’s skyline, as well as one of London’s favourite ice skating rinks that’s the perfect spot for working up an appetite for all that fine fare from the German market – the German hot dogs are an absolute must, washed down with a hot chocolate… or something stronger, naturally.

Looking to get your skates on this Christmas? Well look no further than this comprehensive list of the capital’s very finest ice rinks, enabling you to take to the ice to glide elegantly with poise and considerable grace. Or scrabble around before falling over.

London has plenty of great places to skate, with sumptuous settings, famous backdrops and loads of festive cheer to get you in the mood for the big day. Whether they’re firm favourites like those at Hampton Court Palace, Somerset House and the Natural History Museum, or relative

And if you’re also one of those that never knows what to buy your kith and kin then Winter Wonderland can even help you out with that too. There are loads of independent market stalls offering great gift ideas and presents, but if you’re still undecided then you can always take friends and family to the mighty Zippo’s Circus, handily located right next door. http://xr.com/viewlondonwinterwonderland

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KentEvents

EVENTS

PETER ANDRE LIGHT SWITCH ON // 17 NOV

NORTHERN BALLET’S THE NUTCRACKER AT THE MARLOWE THEATRE // 1-5 NOV

Northern Ballet return with their magical version of this much loved ballet.

It is Christmas Eve in the twinkling drawing room of the Edward’s family home. Amidst the commotion, the fire crackles and the pile of presents grow ever taller. A curious box of performing toys captivates the children, but it is the wooden nutcracker doll that enchants young Clara most.

Share in Clara’s adventure as she is swept away by her nutcracker prince into a magical winter wonderland of dancing snowflakes and the famous Sugar Plum Fairy. Performed to Tchaikovsky’s enduring score, played live by the Northern Ballet Sinfonia, The Nutcracker is scattered with Northern Ballet’s unique dance magic.

Visit www.marlowetheatre.com for info on prices or to book.

The Marlowe Theatre, The Friars, Canterbury (SAT NAV: CT1 2AS)

FOLKESTONE BOOK FESTIVAL 2011 // 4-12 NOV

The Folkestone Book Festival 2011 is upon us which will include Mitch Ben & The Distractions, Robin Ince’s Bad Book Clue and the festival finale from Four Poofs & a Piano.

For more info visit www.folkestonebookfest.com

This year, celebrity singer and awardwinning dad Peter Andre will flick the switch to illuminate over 130,000 twinkling Christmas lights at McArthurGlen’s Ashford Designer Outlet, creating a spectacular display for shoppers and marking the start of the Christmas festive season.

Enjoy a whole host of performances from talented acts and singers as well as the launch of Ashford’s first ever outdoor skating rink. 6pm. For more info visit www. ashforddesigneroutlet.com.

Ashford Designer Outlet, Kimberly Way, Ashford (SAT NAV: TN24 0SD)

FESTIVE FAIR AT LEEDS CASTLE // 19-20 NOV

A stress-free Christmas shopping experience and day out for all the family. Traditional and innovative gift ideas, stocking fillers and festive food and drink in a heated and carpeted marquee on the Cedar Lawn. An additional charge of £2 per person applies. www.leeds-castle.com Leeds Castle, Maidstone (SAT NAV: ME17 1PL)

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING AT CHIDDINGSTONE CASTLE // 25 NOV

There is a perfect opportunity to avoid the hustle and bustle of busy town centres in November with a spot of early Christmas shopping at Chiddingstone Castle’s Christmas Fair.

The beautiful countryside location of this lovely Castle is perfect for a relaxed shopping affair and this popular annual event will offer visitors a chance to browse unique gifts from all the stalls located in the castle rooms, including toys and home accessories, children’s clothes and hand-crafted decorations. There will also be a choice of hand bags, scarves and homemade jewellery.

After shopping visitors can relax in the castle’s Victorian tea room and enjoy that all important coffee break, choosing from homemade light lunches, cakes and mince pies or enjoy a coffee while reading your favourite magazines by the Range!

Visitors can also enjoy exploring the castle’s beautiful grounds, including the award winning orangery.

10am-4pm. Admission to the fair is £2.50. Free parking.

Chiddingstone Castle, Hill Hoath Road, Chiddingstone (SAT NAV: TN8 7AD)

LATE NIGHT SHOPPING AT PENSHURST PLACE & GARDENS // 16, 23, 30 NOV & 7, 14 DEC

Shop at Penshurst gift shop this Christmas to find gifts for all members of the family with local Kentish and Sussex produce hampers, Christmas trees and estate-grown mistletoe. Parking is free with complimentary coffee and mince pie. 10% off all purchases over £10 made on late night evenings (excluding stamps and vouchers). Open 10.30am-8pm.

Penshurst Place & Gardens, Penshurst, Tonbridge (SAT NAV: TN11 8DG)

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EVENTS HANDEL’S MESSIAH AT CANTERBURY CATHEDRAL // 26 NOV

Performance from Canterbury Cantata Choir and Ensemble. Directed by Grenville Hancox. Admission £15, students £10. Tickets from the CCCU 01227 863 458 or via the website www.canterbury.ac.uk/community-art-education

FESTIVE FUN AT DOVER CASTLE // EVERY WEEKEND IN DECEMBER*

CHARLTON PARK CHRISTMAS FAIR // 26-27 NOV

Festive themed stalls offering jewellery, wines, scarves, sweet things, toys and much more.

Open 10.00am to 4.00pm, £3.50 per person (under 16’s free). Stall Bookings: 01227 831355. www.charlton-park.org Charlton Park Foundation, Bishopsbourne, Canterbury (SAT NAV: CT4 5JA)

From Christmas Quests to Carols in the majestic Great Tower, Dover Castle has something for the whole family to enjoy this festive season.

Discover the traditions of Christmas with a very special events programme. Visit english-heritage.org.uk/events for more information.

Dover Castle, east of Dover town centre, Dover (SAT NAV: CT16 1HU) *Closed 24 & 25 December

WINE DINNER WITH NUMBER 75 & BIDDENDEN VINEYARDS // 30 NOV

Number 75 Dining Room & Wine Bar has joined forces with Biddenden Vineyards to offer a 4-course wine dinner on Wednesday 30th November. A chance to enjoy local produce prepared by Tyrone Power and matched with some of Kent’s best wines from Biddenden Vineyards.

7.30pm start, pre-booking essential, please contact Number 75 on 01580 262075 or visit www.number75.com Number 75 Dining Room & Wine Bar, High Street, Tenterden (SAT NAV: TN30 6BB)

A CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS // 1 DEC

Join Demelza for its annual carol concert at Canterbury Cathedral. The evening starts at 7.30pm. Tickets are £12 for adults, £6 for Children and £30 for a family ticket. All proceeds from the evening go to Demelza (Registered Charity No 1039561).

Call 01795 845288 to book your tickets.

CHRISTMAS IN NEW YORK // 8 DEC – 8 JAN

A dazzling outing for all the family. Christmas in New York will bring the magic of Christmas to life. Experience a world of winter fun with a stunning ice rink, free Santa’s grotto, snow slide, carosel and much more – all in the brand new Events Venue at Bluewater! For more info or to book tickets visit www.christmasinny.co.uk Bluewater, Greenhithe (SAT NAV: DA9 9ST)

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CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING // 4 DEC

Bring out your creative side and make your own Christmas wreath or table arrangement. Enjoy a tour around the house with complimentary lunch.

10am-4pm. £55 per person (£45 per person for English Heritage members). Maximum capacity 15 – booking essential.

Walmer Castle & Gardens, Kingsdown Road, Deal (SAT NAV: CT14 7LJ)

NEW ROPE STRING BAND AT CHARLTON PARK // 11 DEC

Superb musicianship with side-splitting comic genius, truly unique entertainers.

Refreshments available Start 6.30pm. Tickets £18, concessions and groups (6+) £15 per person, family ticket (2+2) £56. www.charlton-park.org Charlton Park Foundation, Bishopsbourne,Canterbury (SAT NAV: CT4 5JA)

THAT’LL BE THE DAY CHRISTMAS SHOW // 5 DEC

Trevor, Gary and the gang bring back the good times with a combination of their unique comedy routines mixed with a non stop line up of all the best Christmas hits!

Visit www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk for more info and to book.

Assembly Hall Theatre, Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells (SAT NAV: TN1 2LU)

CHRISTMAS CAROLS AT THE GREAT TOWER // 17 DEC

Enjoy a relaxing stroll around Dover Castle’s Great Tower at night whilst listening to traditional Christmas Carols. Browse the Christmas shop and enjoy a glass of mulled wine and a minced pie in the Great Tower Coffee Shop.

6-9pm. £25 per person (£20 per person for English Heritage members).

Maximum capacity 80 –booking essential Dover Castle, east of Dover town centre, Dover (SAT NAV: CT16 1HU)

CHALKFOOT THEATRE ‘ALADDIN & HIS MAGIC LAMP’ // 17 DEC

The Genie must enlist the help of all his customers (inc. children in the audience) to tell the amazing tale of Aladdin & his lamp. Fun for all the family. Refreshments available.

Start 3.30pm. Tickets £10, concessions £7.50, family Ticket (2+2) £30. www.charlton-park.org Charlton Park Foundation, Bishopsbourne, Canterbury (SAT NAV: CT4 5JA)

CHRISTMAS DAY GALA BUFFET LUNCHEON // 25 DEC Dine on the Executive Head Chef’s superb Gala Buffet in the elegant Rose Garden Dining Room.

Enjoy a pre-lunch drink in the Manor Bar before lunch and later relax in front of a blazing log fire or take a stroll through the beautiful gardens.

Experience superb food and service in luxurious surroundings.

For more information visit www.eastwellmanor.co.uk or call 01233 213000 Eastwell Manor, Nr Ashford (SAT NAV: TN25 4HR)

NEW YEAR’S EVE BLACK TIE DINNER & DANCE // 31 DEC

Enjoy a Champagne & Canapé Reception followed by a 7-course extravaganza created by Executive Head Chef, Carl Smith. Entertainment from internationally renowned magician, Etienne Pradier. Piper at midnight and live band.

For more information visit www.eastwellmanor.co.uk or call 01233 213000 Eastwell Manor, Nr Ashford (SAT NAV: TN25 4HR) David Essex from All the Fun of the Fair © Paul Mitchell

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY FUN // 17 DEC – 2 JAN

Breathe in the fresh winter air and shake off the Christmas cobwebs, stay local and come to Kent Life to enjoy the vast open space. With lots to keep the children occupied including the adventure playground, snowman trail, Santa’s tractor sleigh rides, indoor soft play area, paint-apot studio and much more. 10am to 3pm.

Kent Life, Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone (SAT NAV: ME14 3AU)

The Orchard, Dartford, has a jam-packed lineup of shows to suit all tastes this winter! They have the amazing All The Fun of The Fair, starring David Essex, as well as the popular children’s Room on The Broom and the spectacular Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. And not to forget this year’s FABU-LOUS pantomime Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs! There is STRICTLY limited availability for this spellbinding show starring Craig Revel Horwood and Ann Widdecombe!

www.orchardtheatre.co.uk www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk

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