East Kent Lifestyle Issue 35

in association with

issue thirty five november/december twenty-seventeen

John Travolta

The Hollywood legend plays Mafia boss John Gotti in the upcoming gangster biopic

Seasonal Skating

“Oh yes it is!”

East Kent’s Festive Ice Rinks

Panto Picks

a plenty

Gluttony in Glasgow A

foodie’s delight of the border

North

SPACES AVAILABLE FOR ALL PARTY SIZES

Contact one of our venues today...

The Pavilion, Broadstairs - Tel: 01843 600 999 Email: pavilion@thorleytaverns.co.uk The Pegwell Bay Hotel, Ramsgate - Tel: 01843 599 590 Email: pegwellbay.reception@thorleytaverns.co.uk The Charles Dickens, Broadstairs - Tel: 01843 603 040 Email: charlesdickens@thorleytaverns.co.uk The Oak Hotel, Ramsgate - Tel: 01843 583 686 Email: oak.reception@thorleytaverns.co.uk The Captain Digby, Broadstairs - Tel: 01843 867 764 Email: digby@thorleytaverns.co.uk The Tartar Frigate, Broadstairs - Tel: 01843 862 013 Email: tartarfrigate@thorleytaverns.co.uk

[title ]

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[title ]

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[welcome ]

november/december twenty-seventeen

ISSUE THIRTY FIVE

Hello, welcome, and a very Merry Christmas to you from all of us here at East Kent Lifestyle! We trust you’ve all been good boys and girls this year and that as a result Santa fills your stocking with whatever your heart desires. If not then just break out the chocolate liqueurs and egg nog, and drown your sorrows away in front of the Bond movie!

We’ve a few festive features for you to enjoy in our Yueltide issue including some cracking Christmas cocktail recipes on page 60, our pick of the best places to go if you fancy a spot of ice-skating over the holidays (page 18), and also a run-down of the best pantomimes East Kent has to offer (starts page 42).

We’ve also got a couple of great seasonal recipes from our resident Chef Lee Behan. First a scrumptious chocolate torte (p63), and also a real winter warmer – cottage pie (p73)!

Talking of delicious food we sent Ben London to sample the delights on offer at the Cliffe Pub & Kitchen in St Margaret’s Bay, and we sent our travel editor Jaillan Yehia up to Glasgow, the culinary capital of the Clyde, for a proper foodie’s weekend. Check out her review on page 74.

If and when you decide enough is enough on the food and drink front this Christmas (and if you do then you’re a better person than I am that’s for sure) then why not give this issue’s East Kent walk, which takes you through the winter wonderland that is the Stour Valley?

With plenty more in the way of news, reviews, fashion, homes & interiors, days out, and much more besides we hope you enjoy this year’s Christmas edition and we look forward to seeing you again in the New Year!

Merry Christmas to one and all!

Pete Nichols, Publishing Director

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EAST KENT LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

your perfect fireplace

showroom, 196 - 198 Canterbury Road Birchington, Kent, CT7 9AQ Tel: 01843 841922 Fax: 01843 844255

open monday - saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

www.fireplaceandstonecentre.co.uk

fireplaces • gas fires • woodstoves • chimney systems • design & construction

[contents ]

42

18

skating & santa

east kent panto picks

WHAT’S INSIDE...

food & drink

60 Christmas Cocktail Recipes 63 Chocolate Torte Recipe 64 The Cliffe Pub & Kitchen 67 Rajdani Wins Curry Award 68 Star baker Chetna Makan joins Taste of Kent judging panel 73 Cottage Pie Recipe

homes & interiors

37 Papillon Interiors 38 Ashford Housing Market Boom

fashion

76 Whitefriars Fashion

health & beauty 89 The Chair - Party Hair

travel

74 Gluttony in Glasgow 8

51

john travolta

[contents ]

74

gluttony-inglasgow

60

christmas cocktails

regulars & features 12 14 26 27 27 32 34 51 58 96 98

East Kent News Fabulous Christmas Finds Kent Community Foundation Kent Cross Country Champions Pilgrims Hospice Future Foundry Margate Student Wins Construction Award John Travolta Gardner Croft What's Occurring East Kent Business

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chetna makan

days out

16 East Kent Walks 18 Skating & Santa 22 East Kent Cycle Trail 24 Dreamland 29 Ramsgate Royal Harbour Lights

arts & culture

31 The Night that Autumn Turned to Winter 42 East Kent Panto Picks 42 Peter Pan 45 The Beaney - 'Oh Yes it is' 47 Jack and the Beanstalk 47 Wizard of Oz 49 Cinderella

96 what's occuring

education 91 92 94 95

Kent College Junior King's School Spring Grove School St Lawrence College 9

[publication information ]

psapublishing East Kent Lifestyle magazine published by PSA Publishing Barley House, Sopers Road, Cuffley, Herts EN6 4RY tel: 01707 878026 email: sales@psapublishing.co.uk www.psapublishing.co.uk

Publishing Director

Creative Director

Pete Nichols pete@psapublishing.co.uk

Stuart Bennett stuart@bainesdesign.co.uk

Sales Executive

Managing Director

Jo Costello sales@psapublishing.co.uk

Andrew Bennett andrew@bainesdesign.co.uk

Travel Editor

Distribution

Jaillan Yehia hello@savoirthere.com

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Bertie Payne Mary Jones

Contributors Peter Nichols, Jaillan Yehia, Explore Kent, Lee Behan, Gill Graham, Ben London, John White, Dean Kilpatrick, Catherine Jordan Jones, Leanne Austin, Sarah Whelband, Nick Rose, Emma Woodland.

Contributing Photographers Jaillan Yehia, Explore Kent, Peter Nichols, Ben London, Malcolm Kirkaldie For all advertising enquiries please contact sales on 01707 878 026

TH E- C H A I R . C O. U K The publisher does not accept any responsibility for the content of advertisements or contributed editorial in this magazine. Opinions expressed editorially are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher and no responsibility is accepted for loss, damage or injury incurred as a result of opinions, advice or comment.

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[news ]

east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east ken

Kent businesswoman launches careers advice podcast series Kent businesswoman and Chairman of MiddletonMurray, Angela Middleton, has recently launched a free podcast series, iwant2ba, which focuses on providing real-life careers advice from people in a wide range of industries. iwant2ba is the first free podcast series of its kind. It covers an A-Z of careers, from Accountants to MPs and everything in between.

The RT Honourable James Brokenshire, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, is one of the wellknown figures who has been featured on the podcast. Here, he discusses how he got into politics and his career so far and gives advice to someone looking to get the career they want: “Any work experience, even if it is not in your field of work you want to be in, is so valuable.”

Angela first set up MiddletonMurray, an award-winning apprenticeship and life strategy company, in 2002. Since then, she has expanded the business to 12 locations across the UK as well as a satellite office in San Francisco.

Commenting on why she decided to embark on this project, Angela said: “I created iwant2ba to provide free, helpful and varied advice for young people, parents and teachers across the UK, in a digital format that is accessible for all.”

The podcasts are designed to be accessible to all schools and colleges throughout the UK as a tool to assist young people who are considering the next steps to take towards their career path.

Angela believes in inspiring people throughout all stages in their life to succeed in their career – there’s no age limit on learning and progression. Through MiddletonMurray, Angela has built holistic programmes for young people which not only get them great jobs but in fact go much deeper. It enables them to design their life, empowering them to develop their minds and bodies. iwant2ba has attracted in excess of 4,000 listeners so far.

Give blood in Kent to keep stocks up for Christmas NHS Blood and Transplant is urging donors in Kent to make and keep appointments to give blood and ensure hospitals have the stocks they need to treat patients over the festive period.

Donations are needed now because blood needs to be processed before it can be sent to patients.

Blood stocks can dip over the next few weeks as people miss appointments due to bad weather, busy schedules, and winter bugs and colds. However the demand for life saving blood and platelets continues 365 days a year and seriously ill people in Kent are depending on donors making and keeping appointments.

There is continued high demand for O negative blood and A negative platelets, as these ‘universal’ blood types can be used safely with any patient and they are particularly valuable in accident and emergency situations.

NHS Blood and Transplant hold mobile blood donation sessions at a variety of community venues across Kent.To find your local session call the Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk Katie Burgon, Regional Donor Marketing Operations Manager, said: “If you can make and keep an appointment to 12

give blood over the next few weeks you can help us save lives at Christmas."

NHS Blood and Transplant also always need new donors to replace those people who can no longer donate for reasons such as ill health or pregnancy.We particularly need more black donors as they are more likely to have the blood type needed to treat the increasing number of patients suffering from sickle cell disease. People from the same ethnic background are more likely to have matching blood groups.

• Make and keep your appointment to donate in Kent by calling the Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk

nt NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS

Award Winning Engagement at Ashford

[news ]

South Korean litter drifted to Kent beach According to Kent Online, litter collectors were forced to do a double take when they scoured a Kent beach for rubbish, for among the 63kg of discarded waste ending up on Shakespeare beach in Dover, was a water bottle - about 5,500 miles from home.

The water bottle from Jeju Island in South Korea ended up on the beach among items from all over the world drifting here on the tides. The bottle was among kilos of rubbish filling 19 sacks, which were cleared from the water’s edge at the end of September.

Ashford Borough Council has won an award at the prestigious national Engagement Excellence Awards, held at the Guildhall in London.

The Awards celebrate excellence in employee engagement, and Ashford Borough Council was one of only a few local authorities to be shortlisted against national and global brands such as Samsung, Morrison’s Supermarket, Domino's Pizza Group, Travis Perkins, Wyevale Garden Centres and Transport for London.

The Kent authority won ‘Engagement team of the year’ (up against Hertfordshire County Council, Iforce, Oliver Bonas and Snc-lavalin). It was also shortlisted for ‘Best business strategy’ and ‘Engagement leader of the year’.

The council was praised for its enthusiasm and commitment to staff engagement; specifically how it communicates and raises awareness within its workforce.

This is the third year the council has been successful at the event. The judging panel consisted of 24 Human Resources and Reward leaders from companies all around the UK. Cllr Alan Pickering, Portfolio Holder for HR and Customer Services said: “We are thrilled that Ashford Borough Council has been recognised for commitment to staff engagement. Being shortlisted for three awards is a reflection of our hard work and dedication in creating a workforce that is both motivated and productive. This is crucial in helping us achieve our ambitions on behalf of the borough and our residents.”

The finding is by the White Cliffs Countryside Partnership after the beach was scoured and each item of litter was recorded and bagged. The task was part of the Marine Conservation Society’s (MCS) Great British Beach Clean which involved participation from nearly 90 volunteers including staff from the Port of Dover and Dover College.

The findings have been forwarded to MCS for analysis and will be added to national data to give a fuller picture of the extent of litter in British seas.

Paul Sampson,WCCP partnership ranger, said: “We are very grateful to all the volunteers who enabled us to give Shakespeare Beach a well-deserved clean.

It also gives us an opportunity to find out exactly what type of litter is making its way by sea to this part of East Kent.

Vicki Jago corr, head of safety and environment at the Port of Dover, said: “Shakespeare Beach, like beaches all over the world, is vulnerable to marine litter.

"The Great British Beach Clean is successfully getting the community together to take action and enables learning about worldwide problems of marine litter.”

The WCCP was set up in 1989 to help care for the coast and countryside in Dover and Shepway. There are at present nine members of staff supported by around 300 volunteers who organise nearly 400 volunteer tasks and 300 guided walks and Green Gang family events a year.

For more information view the website whitecliffscountryside.org.uk

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[fabulous finds ]

Finds FERRARI MAN IN RED GIFT SET

If the blurb on the gift set description is anything to go by, this is the gift for a real Man’s man. Apparently, “Man in Red is a bold and intense scent that celebrates all that is thrilling about Ferrari. It captures the very essence of masculinity and embodies a new type of man, one who lives intensely”. Crikey! It continues “This fruity ambery fougère is an intense and compelling scent: strong, bold, charismatic from the outset, revealing a heart of sweet and tender notes and a distinctive signature that stays etched on your memory”. The gift set includes a 100ml EDT with complimenting Deodorant and Body Wash. I’m in!

Price: £59 Available from www.houseoffraser.co.uk

HE GINVENT ADVENT T CALENDAR

ERRY CHRISTMAS M EVERYONE' HAMPER This family-sized chocolate Christmas hamper from Hotel Chocolat is the perfect gift for the whole family, filled with boutique bubbles, small cookie wreath and winter puddings.

Price: £50 Available from www.hotelchocolat.com or instore at 8-9 Parade, Canterbury CT1 2SG

Love Christmas and love Gin? Then what could be more up your street that the Ginvent Advert Calendar? Created in collaboration with Gin Foundry, the Ginvent Advent Calendar brings together 24 different 3cl samples of deliciously diverse gins, offering a snapshot into this muchloved spirit. From London dry to Old Tom, classic juniper expressions to exotically flavoured drops, find a wealth of all things gin tucked behind those Advent windows. Just keep the kids away!

Price: £124.95 Available from www.masterofmalt.com

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[fabulous finds ]

PERSONALISED COOKIE MUG Do you enjoy earning some brownie points with your other half/mum/dad by taking them tea and biscuits in the morning? If so then this personalised ceramic mug could be an ideal stocking filler for them this Christmas – it’ll help cut down on the morning crockery admin too as both the hot drink and the biccies fit in the mug, leaving you a hand free for anything which might require it on the way between the kitchen and the bedroom! (door handles, enthusiastic dogs, a staircase bannister). These fabulous tea or coffee mugs can be personalised with any name, nickname or family name.

Price: £7 Available from www.personalisedgiftsshop.co.uk

OOT 7 HIMALAYAN SALT R SHOTS

BLACK & BLUM WINE RACK We’re sticking to the booze theme because this wine rack

by Black & Blum is just too splendid for words! Finished in brushed stainless steel, the rack is inspired by the flow of liquid, the sculptural geometric design presents your wine bottles beautifully. It securely holds each bottle, displays the label clearly and saves you using up counter space.

Price: £25 Available from www.black-blum.com

Another booze-based Christmas Cracker – oh well, we have no shame here at EKL house, any excuse for us to try out a new piece of liquor-ware! A slice of lime & a shot of Tequila and you’re ready to go with these awesome looking Himalayan salt shots. Hand carved from high quality natural pink rock salt mined from the Himalayas. Being made from 100% solid salt they are food safe and add a subtle salty flavour to your shot to take the edge off the incoming spirit.

Price: £25 for a set of 4 Available from www.root7.com

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[days out ]

EAST KENT WALK

Exploring Kent’s wonderful

RIVERS & VALLEYS Explore the Stour Valley and be greeted with a winter wonderland of patchwork fields, frost laden branches of the orchard trees in No-Man’s orchard - the first community run orchard in the country and the River Stour in its full winter glory. Wrap up warm and discover how beautiful ancient woodland is during the winter, the crisp frost underfoot showing the footprints of badgers, foxes and the rich bird life that make the woodland their home. Look for stunning views across the Downs as you make your way around this picturesque walk. Winter walking in Kent doesn’t get much better than this.

Enjoy a walk along the banks of the River Stour, through beautiful orchards, and winding woodland paths. This walk will showcase the beauty that can be found in the Kent countryside and the stunning village of Chartham.

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This relaxing circular walk starts from St Mary’s Church, Chartham. The church dates back to the 13th century and boasts a brass of Sir Robert de Septvans, a Crusader knight who died in 1306; the brass is considered to be one of the finest in the country.

Leaving the church, turn right before reaching the surfaced footpath just before the bridge, ascend the steps and cross the track to continue ahead along the path. Amble through the gate to the pavement and turn left to follow the Stour Valley sign, before crossing the

[days out ]

road and turning right to follow the way-marked footpath. Bear left to follow the trail around the rear of the buildings.

another road, before crossing over to follow the North Downs Way signposts to wander through a peaceful thicket.

Following the track, you will soon pass through a peaceful orchard, one of many to be found on this tranquil walk.

Wandering past the banks of the Great Stour, look out for the herons and other wildlife which inhabit this area.

At the end of the shady pathway, your route will emerge into No-Man’s Orchard; the first community run orchard in the country. The orchard is an abundance of traditional fruit tree varieties, meaning their fruit is often much larger than more modern varieties. Following the boundary edge out of the orchard, continue along another pathway, enclosed by woodland.

Across the water you may be able to catch a glimpse of the Larkey Valley Wood Nature Reserve. The reserve suffered severe damage to its trees during the storm of 1987, yet today a visit to its regenerated woodland can provide sightings of badgers, dormice, hawfinches and nightingale, as well as a profusion of snowdrops in late winter.

Turning left to walk along the road, continue following the way-markers through the fields and head towards

Leaving the wooded area, your path will soon pass alongside the recreation ground. From here continue to follow the North Downs Way Trail marker, which will lead you through an alleyway and towards New Town Street and the Chapter Arms Pub. Follow the footpath sign on your left

into the orchard. The blossom and windfall fruit attract a variety of wildlife to the grassland. Ambling through rolling fields, enjoy a background of stunning views of Chartham.

Your route will soon bring you out onto the road, where you can turn left over the level crossing and follow signposts to return to Chartham. Enjoy a gentle stroll through the village, taking in its rich history and enjoying refreshments in one of the village pubs and restaurants which will provide a well-earned rest and relaxation to end your walk in style.

What Next?

For more information on our walks, events and ideas for days outdoors visit ExploreKent.org follow Explore Kent on social media @explorekent on Twitter & Facebook.

LOCATION: Chartham,CT4 7HZ

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DISTANCE: 5 miles (8km) Circular

Start/Finish 5miles (8km)

TIME: Allow 2.5 hours

Stile

OS EXPLORER MAP: 150

Gate

TERRAIN: Field, orchard and woodland paths, some on-road sections. Moderate slopes.

Š Crown Copyright and database right 2017 Ordnance Survey 100019238

PARKING: Some on-road parking is available in Chartham, outside the church and in surrounding roads PUBLIC TRANSPORT: For directions to Chartham via public transport, please visit www.kentconnected.org REFRESHMENTS & FACILITIES: The Artichoke, a local pub full of character, local shops and toilets at the start/end of your walk.

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[days out ]

SKATING & SANTA Dame John Gardens Ice Rink, Canterbury For the first time this year there will be an undercover ice rink in Canterbury’s Dame John Gardens, a result of a partnership between the city council and local firm Noah & The Shed.

The 30m by 20m ice rink is set up near the bandstand, complete with viewing arena and a play area for children.

Representatives from the company and the local authority gained support from local community after holding talks with Dane John residents and the St Mildred’s Area Community Society, The rink is part of a wider revamp of the Christmas offering in Canterbury, which also sees a big expansion of the always wonderful Whitefriars Christmas market into St George’s Street. The Canterbury market has seen huge success over the past few years and this year’s expansion will see the number of festive wooden huts selling all manner of foods, drinks, and Christmassy crafts increase from 43 to 70.

Canterbury City Council leader Simon Cook said: “We are very excited to be bringing a Christmas ice rink to Canterbury for the first time.

“It’s something lots of people have been asking for and will really enhance the festive atmosphere in the city.

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“We expect the demand to be high, so people will need to get in quick when booking opens.”

White Cliffs Christmas at Dover’s Historic Cruise Terminal One Now in its second year the “White Cliffs Christmas Event” returns to occupy the vast cruise terminal at the Port of Dover offering visitors not only the opportunity to enjoy the undercover ice-rink, but also a wide selection of food and drink stalls, a Christmas Market and Santa’s Grotto.

This year’s undercover skating rink is even bigger than last year and will be open Thursday through to Sunday up until Christmas Eve, and then from Wednesday 27th through to New Year’s Day. The Christmas Market will be open weekends and will be offering a wide range of gift ideas, complemented by live music and a variety of children’s

rides and of course those tempting food and drinks stalls which this year include; ‘The Street Pantry’ in their 1957 Citroen H van serving soups and stews served inside a sourdough loaf, real hot chocolate, teas and coffees, ‘Wonderland’ selling classic & moderns sweets, ‘Hits the Spot’ with their amazing sweet and savoury crepes, ‘Kentish Pip Cider’ serving mulled cider and Turkish spiced apple tea, ‘Stoned Pizza’, ‘Dinky Donuts’, ‘Coffee Express’, and ‘The Bohemian’ serving ta wide range, of beers, wines, and spirits.

And of course don’t forget that Santa will be in residence every weekend until Christmas in his enchanted Marine Station Grotto dishing out ageappropriate gifts! Kids can also bring down their Christmas letters for the special post box for Mr Claus to peruse at his leisure.

[days out ]

The Frosted Fairground – Dreamland, Margate This Christmas Margate’s iconic Dreamland amusement park will be transformed into “The Frosted Fairground”, which includes a 450 metre square ice-rink with room for up to 150 skaters located up on Tivoli Gardens. The winter weather won’t affect the fun as the rink is undercover, with a clear roof and walls for taking in the sights at the winter-themed amusement park. Sessions are one hour long and bookable in advance and for skate aids also available for under 8s.

After you’re done skating there is plenty more to keep the whole family amused at the Frosted Fairground. As well as the awesome vintage rides, seasonal food and drink, and plenty of live music, the younger kids will love Father Christmas’ Grotto Experience with elves, crafts and a sing-along with Father Christmas himself all topped off with a gift for each child.

There will also be Jack & Jackie Frost hosting sing-a-longs, reporting on the likelihood of a white Christmas, playing Christmas number ones at 1pm and even having a light switch on every day.

There will also be a special appearance by favourite Christmas characters The Snowman™ and The Snowdog.

The amusement park will open on the first two weekends in December, and then every day from 16th December until January 3rd 2018 (closed on Christmas Day).

See the website for times and pricing at www.dreamland.co.uk Santa’s Grotto & Skate at Bluewater The Bluewater Grotto, located by the beautiful lakes at the West Village is one of the more stunning creations you’re likely to come across this Christmas. A real experience for the kids, their festive journey begins with a warm welcome from Mr Crumb the Christmas Chef at the entrance of the enchanting log cabin.

The children are then “magically” transformed into elves and help Mr Crumb make a gingerbread man but something goes wrong and out of the oven jumps the real Gingerbread Man! The little elves continue their adventure in Mrs Claus’ craft room where they can enjoy creating a tree decoration, and then it’s on to meet Santa where to receive their gift

Once you’re done with the Grotto, pop next to to Bluewater’s spectacular undercover outdoor ice rink .Perfect for all the family to enjoy, there are seal shaped skating aids for kids, bob skates for those who need to be steady on the ice and skate lessons for anyone hoping to whirl, glide, skate and slide around the huge sparkling Christmas tree.

Beverages, hot drinks and refreshments are available from the rink side cabins.

As with Dreamland, you must book in advance for your one hour slot. For availability and pricing visit www. bluewater.co.uk 19

[days out ]

Start Afresh at

GREEN FARM KENT Kick Start the New Year with the Fabulous Green Farm Kent Weekend Retreat Featuring Yoga & Nutrition Workshop Give the New Year a healthy start with a Start AfreshRetreat at Green Farm Kent on 26th-28th January which delicately combines Yoga, Spa, country walks, nutrition workshop, fabulous ESPA treatments and delicious home cooked food in a tranquil natural setting.

Green Farm Kent is a world away from the hustle and bustle of modern day living. Located deep in the stunning Kent countryside and surrounded by 12,500 acres of lush woodland, this idyllic getaway promises to restore you to better health, increased energy and a renewed connection with nature.

With an emphasis on helping you to de-stress and naturally detox after the festive season, the retreat offers two nights luxury accommodation in the immaculately restored 15th century farmhouse.

Unwind your body and soul with four yoga classes over the weekend (suitable for all levels) as well as country walks and full use of Green Farm Kent’s boutique spa facilities with a sauna and two outdoor hot tubs.

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Learn about healthy nutrition and how to bring small positive changes to your daily diet during a dedicated workshop with certified nutritionist Alice Yeates.

Simplicity is at the heart of Green Farm Kent and there will be plenty of downtime for you to just sit back and relax. For those looking for some gentle activity, organised walks, hikes and cycle rides are at your disposal to take in some nature and stunning views.You’ll enjoy freshly prepared home cooked food for the duration of your stay using the finest home-grown or locally sourced ingredients and prepared with no extra fuss, as nature intended.

This gem of a farmstay amidst more than 12,000-acre ancient woodland was created out of passion and commitment to preserve and nurture the environment and offers a deeply relaxing experience, with as much or as little to do as you wish. At Green Farm Kent, yoga, fresh air, the woods, organic farming and gardening, ESPA treatments and home grown food (and wine!) come together to create an idyllic, sustainably created

haven and a perfect tonic to the stressful pace of urban life.

Prices for the retreat are £495 per person single occupancy, £395 per person double occupancy, £375 per person triple occupancy.

For more information please visit: https://www.greenfarmkent.co.uk/ gfyogaretreat

the

elephant in the room looking for a quirky and unique gift?

things handmade by East Kent makers

we have the perfect thing. come and visit us on Queen Street

and fun, showing ceramics, glass, portray the experience and character of

Come and see us in our big new shop and gallery by the royal harbour in Ramsgate or have a look online, and be tempted!

www.nice-things.co.uk 19 - 21 Harbour Street, Ramsgate CT11 8HA @NiceThingsRamsg | 07939 542990

45 QUEEN STREET, RAMSGATE, CT11 9DZ

GALLERY

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Inaugural exhibition of paintings, ceramics & jewellery now open.

The exhibition will be continuing until 6th January 11-5 Thursday to Saturday Or by appointment 0758057869

98 High Street, Ramsgate, CT11 9RX

Rolling programme of exhibitions throughout 2018 Facebook – Gallery98Ramsgate

Instagram - gallery 98 ramsgate

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[days out ]

TOWN TO COUNTRY CYCLING

EAST KENT CYCLE TRAIL

Ashford has long been considered to be a great place for cyclists with plenty of choice for off road cycling mecca for cyclists and an ever growing choice of cycle routes available on the doorstep.

The long distance routes connect up well with other key destinations within Kent with some of Kent’s prettiest villages are a leisurely cycle ride away making the routes accessible to all ages and abilities. Aside from the countryside, Ashford cycle routes can be used to access top class shopping facilities and a useful commuter route making travel a breeze during peak hours.

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[days out ] Catching the train to Ashford International will give you the best start to your day as over 50km of cycle routes are available directly from the station, from here the cycling world is pretty much your oyster!

If you’re new to cycling in Ashford, you’ll quickly feel at home, you can start your day out by heading onto the Great Stour Way towards Canterbury, this is a wonderful haven to escape to, removing the bustle of daily life and unwinding your senses as you head along the riverbank, hearing nothing only the sound of your wheels gently whizzing along. The beauty of the river in autumn and winter doesn’t end – there is always a good selection of year round bird and wildlife that thrive on and around the riverbank.

You’ll be following National Cycle Route 18 – the distinctive blue signs direct Westward to Tenterden, a picture perfect market town that offers many things to do for all ages, in all weathers at all times of year. Or head north east towards Canterbury which will take you through the wonderful landscape of the Kent Downs AONB. Cyclists looking for a challenge can take on the Wealden Cycle Trail cycling 42 miles through the glorious Kent countryside to Royal Tunbridge Wells heading through Bedgebury Forest and the High Weald AONB. If you didn’t think Kent was particularly hilly, you may well think differently once you’ve tackled this route! It’s a great challenge for solo cyclists or get together with a

group of friends for a winter warmer of a healthier kind!

You could choose to combine your cycling adventure with a super ecofriendly day out at Conningbrook Lakes Country Park, Ashford’s newest country park. Reached via Cycle Route 18, a short cycle journey will take you to a whole host of outdoor family activities which include kayaking, sailing, canoeing, more cycling or just an opportunity for much needed chill out time. Situated in an old quarry, it’s sure to be a day out with a difference!

On many of these routes you will discover quaint Kentish pubs, tea rooms or a pretty spot to open the flask up for a warming hot drink. Seeing this part of Kent in autumn and winter is a seriously rewarding treat – be at one with the

unique landscape, seeing the winter wonderland stretching before you, burn off some pre-Christmas calories or simply escape the parking and traffic nightmare and do some Christmas shopping by bicycle!

You can download a copy of the Ashford Town Cycle Map from ExploreKent.org or visit the Ashford Tourism Information Centre on the second floor of the Ashford Gateway Plus on Church Road TN23 1AS

What Next?

For more information on our walks, events and ideas for days outdoors visit ExploreKent.org follow Explore Kent on social media @explorekent on Twitter & Facebook.

LOCATION: Ashford OS EXPLORER MAP: 137 TERRAIN: Mostly off road cycling on well surfaced tracks, some road cycling PUBLIC TRANSPORT: For directions by public transport from your home address to Ashford please visit www.kentconnected. org. Routes begin outside Ashford International Station, so why not catch the train REFRESHMENTS & FACILITIES: Refreshments in Ashford and plenty of nice local pubs where you can relax!

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[arts & culture ]

Dreamland Scoops Runner-up for Best Family Theme Park Dreamland has been awarded runner-up for the Best Family Theme Park award at this year’s Family Traveller Awards after a public vote, coming second only to the world famous Universal Studios Theme Park in Orlando, Florida.

A Dreamland spokesman said: “Being awarded runner up for the Best Family Theme Park award is absolutely brilliant news for Dreamland and puts Margate on the map once again with the travel industry.We are delighted to have been nominated alongside such fantastic attractions and would like to thank Thanet District Council for nominating us and the public for voting for us!”

The park was running against some seriously stiff competition including; Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm, Chessington World of Adventures,

Diggerland, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Europa-Park, Efteling, Legoland Windsor, The Green Planet, Paultons Park, Peppa Pig World, Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Universal’s Volcano Bay and Walt Disney World, Orlando.

Cllr Wells, leader of Thanet District Council, commented: “We are absolutely delighted that Dreamland was awarded runner up in the Best Theme Park category at the Family Traveller Awards.

TMAS 20 S I R 17 CH YOUR PERFECT WEDDING VENUE Our beautiful, classically-styled hotel is right on the beautiful Kent seafront and is one of the largest venues in the county. We have elegantly styled suites, including th e Imperial Ballroom with its sea views, contempo rary décor and high ceilings .

“It is such a fantastic destination and hugely popular with families from Thanet and beyond.

“Since it reopened it has helped to put Margate firmly back on the map.

“Although the nomination was made by Thanet District Council, it’s voted for by members of the public.

“It is testament to all the fans of Dreamland who took the time and effort to vote that it achieved such a great result.”

Delve in to the festivities with us here at the Hythe Imperial and enjoy a Masquerade Christmas to remember.

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[feature ]

CAMPAIGN launched to help Kent’s elderly and isolated survive winter BY ALISON BALDWIN programme support’s local projects that address the everyday challenges faced by elderly people in Kent and Medway.”

Kent Community Foundation has launched a fundraising campaign to support projects which help Kent’s elderly and isolated survive the winter.

As winter takes hold and the evenings get longer and colder, older people are particularly vulnerable, as cold weather increases their risk of illnesses and social isolation.

Josephine McCartney, Chief Executive of Kent Community Foundation comments: “At Kent Community Foundation we want to make winter less lonely for older people as well as helping them stay well, healthy and independent.

Our Elderly and Isolated themed

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“If just 1% of everyone over 64 in receipt of the Winter Fuel Payment in Kent and Medway were to donate their £200 to the Surviving Winter Appeal this winter, we would have a Fund of more than £1million to help vulnerable elderly people in the county.

We are therefore calling on people who receive the payment but don’t rely on it, to donate it to others in greater need.

But you don’t have to be over 64 to give to this campaign, so anyone who wants to give, even a small amount, will be making a significant difference to vulnerable, elderly people here in Kent and Medway.”

“Every single £1 donated to the fund will contribute to projects that support elderly and isolated people in Kent such as; lunch clubs and other social events to help people stay in touch and keep active during the winter, workshops and advice, transport, befriending services and schemes helping elderly residents with tasks such as shopping or gardening.”

One such project is Cinque Ports Community Kitchen CIC. Using funding through the Surviving Winter Fund they held two lunches for older people living in Deal and Sandwich and experiencing isolation and/or financial hardship. They were offered transport to Chequers Kitchen for a traditional hot, homemade, cookery demonstration and were given energy saving and keeping warm advice, and information about local activities.

In total 55 local pensioners came along including George, a single older man living in North Deal and isolated from family and social relationships. He came along to this event as a result of his neighbour’s encouragement.

George lives in poverty with a very low income. He sat with another neighbour during the lunch and enjoyed both the hot lunch and the opportunity to socialise. Subsequently he was visited by Family Mosaic who were able to help him with clothing and further support to keep warm in winter. Dover District Council housing department also made contact regarding housing issues.

To donate, visit www.kentcf.org.uk

[feature ]

Kent Junior Schools Cross Country Championships 2017 On Saturday, 18th November 1245 young runners from 104 schools across Kent took part in the Kent Schools Cross Country Championships held at the Kent County Showground, Detling.

The annual event was organised by Ashford Leisure Trust and is one of the largest junior schools cross country events in the UK. Year 3 and 4 runners ran the 1km course with the year 5 and 6 course being 2km. The course is challenging with all runners doing incredibly well.

The Kent Junior Schools Cross Country Championship takes place every year with 2017 supported again by Kent School Games and attended by Natalie Harris Countryside, Leisure & Sports

Event Manager and her colleagues from Kent Sport.

Emma Wood, Chief Executive of ALT, said: “ALT is incredibly proud to again organise this event and see so many primary school children taking part. The event provides opportunities for all, from the winners who won in great style to many others who were possibly running such a course for the first time with their school friends.”

level of activities at the Stour Centre, Julie Rose Stadium and Conningbrook Lakes.

These include sporting events with local schools, delivering services to Surestart children’s centres, NHS Community Health, Kent County Council and Ashford Borough Council, Further information www. ashfordleisurecentre.co.uk

This event forms part of Ashford Leisure Trusts ‘Participation to Performance’ programme engaging people to take part in sports related activities.

Ashford Leisure Trust an independent charitable trust has an extensive Community Programme focusing on supporting the delivery of sports and wellbeing initiatives to the local community whilst also providing a high

On-the-road tuesdays make their voices count and present van to pilgrims hospices A series of fundraising concerts across Kent and London by Tenterden’s celebrated choir The Tuesdays culminated on Friday, 3 November with the presentation of a new refrigerated van to the Pilgrims Hospices.

The £10,500 Renault Kangoo van represents the biggest-ever fundraising success by The Tuesdays, who have performed at Rochester Cathedral, London Guildhall and Ashford St Mary’s Revelation in the past year.

The strikingly signwritten van will be used by the Hospices to transport vital supplies between their three sites at Ashford, Canterbury and Margate, and The Tuesdays will continue fundraising to pay for the vehicle’s maintenance and servicing.

The hospices’ community fundraising manager,Victoria Friar, said “We are

so grateful to The Tuesdays for their ongoing generosity. The time and effort they put into their fundraising is truly inspirational, and the refrigerated van they have enabled us to purchase will make an enormous difference to the catering we provide for our patients.”

The biggest contribution to buying the van came from last year’s Make Your Voice Count community singalong at St Mildred’s Church, Tenterden - an event which was repeated this year on Friday 17th November.

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21/01/2016 14:58

[days out ]

BY SARAH WHELBAND, PHOTOGRAPHY BY MALCOLM KIRKALDIE

Ramsgate Royal Harbour lights up for

CHRISTMAS! In 2013, the boat owners in Ramsgate Royal Harbour began to decorate their boats to celebrate Christmas, and every year since the tradition has grown. Now bigger than ever, the Ramsgate Illuminations begin in the UK’s only royal harbour from 1st December, and around 50 to 60 boats volunteer to light up their boats in a dazzling display of lights and decorations.

It really is a spectacle to behold, and with prizes on offer for Best Boat, Best Yacht and Best Motor Cruiser the competition gets fiercer each year! The Royal Temple Yacht Club, Ramsgate Marina Association and the Ramsgate Town Team all take part in the judging, and money is raised for the RNLI Ramsgate.

Not only that, the whole town gets involved, and with plenty of bars, restaurants and cafes all open and joining in with the fun, the decorations don’t stop at the boats, but have begun to spill out into the famous arches of the Harbour with many festive windows to wander and gaze into. So why not pop down and make an evening of it, have a wander and then warm up in one of the many eateries all offering locally produced food and drink for your delectation.

From comforting home-cooked food at the Archive Home Store to live music at

The Queen's Head in Ramsgate there is plenty on offer to suit people of all ages.

It’s a lovely time of year, and with a real sense of community bringing everyone together through the illuminations.

On 21st December, many of the quirky independent shops will be open until 8pm, offering little treats from mince pies to mulled wine so it's the perfect evening to grab some unique, last minute presents! You can pick up a late night shopping trail map from the Visitor Information Centre at Custom House, Harbour Parade.

And if there aren’t enough lights there, then head away from the Harbour into the town centre, where there are more sparkling Christmas sights to see.You can choose from Carols by Candlelight, a Christmas tree festival at St George’s Church and Santa will also be making a couple of appearances in the town.

Christmas is truly a special time to visit,

and Ramsgate’s Harbour illuminations will ensure you really get into the spirit of the festive season this year. For more information on all the Christmas goings on, visit www.visitramsgate.co.uk 29

[title ]

Adults £8 / Children £7 / Family £27 (2 adults, 2 children) 14 - 24 December

Thu 14 Dec, 10am / Fri 15 Dec, 10am / Sat 16 & Sun 17 Dec, 11am & 2pm / Tue 19 Dec, 10am / Wed 20 Dec, 10am / Thu 21 Dec, 11am / Fri 22 Dec, 11am / Sat 23 & Sun 24 Dec, 11am & 2pm

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[days out ]

The Night that Autumn Turned to Winter @ FOLKESTONE QUARTERHOUSE | THURSDAY 14TH – SUNDAY 24TH DECEMBER If you go down to the woods this Christmas, you are definitely sure of a big surprise!

little ones (and not so little ones!), in a faultlessly-crafted winter show that is perfect for all the family this festive season.

Join the award-winning Little Bulb Theatre as they create a magical woodland world! Their exciting energy takes little explorers on a delightfully unforgettable adventure, as pixie narrators fill the air with silly songs, daft dancing, frenzied fun and an abundance of audience interaction!

Set on the last day of autumn, when frost begins to coat the crisp leaves that cover the forest floor, meet an ensemble of woodland animals who wait in eager anticipation of the knowledge that the winter season is slowly creeping in!

Deep within the wild wood, creatures of all shapes and sizes are busy getting ready for the cold season ahead…

During a frenzy of nest-building and nut-gathering, meet the Rabbits, feed the Squirrels and find the Foxy Fox on the night that their world turns into a magical snow-shimmering wilderness.

Be sure to keep your eye out for the super rare winter unicorn, too!

Starring a lively cast of lovable forest creatures, a unique blend of characteristic comedy, live music and lots of wonderful whimsy in the form of props and costumes, The Night that Autumn Turned to Winter is innovatively quirky, as Little Bulb Theatre cleverly reinvent the idea of a traditional fairy tale, capturing the attention of

Britain’s most refreshing young theatre companies’, Little Bulb Theatre have come a long way since they began at the University of Kent almost ten years ago. The award-winning company have become famous for creating a fuzzy feeling of heart-warmingly infectious delight wherever they go. Producing cleverly relevant shows and never resorting to clichés, The Night that Autumn Turned to Winter is praised by The Guardian for its wonderfully DIY aesthetic ‘that considers parents as much as kids… with entertainingly wry mock-David Attenborough commentary.’

Tickets are priced at £8 for adults, £6 for children and £25 for a family (2 adults, 2 children). Head to quarterhouse.co.uk to book, or call the Box Office on 01303 760 750.

Described by The Times as ‘one of

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[feature ]

Future Foundry: Supporting Kent’s Young Entrepreneurs

BY CATHERINE JORDAN JONES

Kent has a new champion, with plans to rejuvenate the county’s town centres by bringing small scale manufacturing back to the heart of the community and turning empty shops into workplaces.

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Future Foundry is a social enterprise, which helps young people who want a career in the creative industries. The organisation has successfully worked with over 400 young people from across Kent through its creative workshops and the popular Student Makers Markets, which offer free stalls and ‘street based’ business training for students, graduates and unemployed 16 – 30 year olds.

The profit-for-purpose company is now bringing together Kent’s creative, environmental and business sectors to encourage the next generation to make innovative products that have minimal impact on the environment.

Future Foundry Director Lisa Oulton wants to tackle youth unemployment in the region by offering young entrepreneurs free facilities and support to develop sustainable start-up businesses

and last month she opened Kent’s first open-access digital creative space at Biggin Hall, Dover. Officially opened on 28th October by the Mayor of Dover, Neil Rix, the hub provides free design and digital manufacturing facilities along with mentoring from industry experts for 16-30 year olds in Dover, Folkestone, Deal and Canterbury.

Lisa is a Canterbury resident and artist, she trained at the London School for Social Entrepreneurs and is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. Shethrives on mentoring and supporting others and said: “Young people and small start-up businesses often don’t have access to facilities or support – our new creative space aims to help the next generation bring their exciting ideas to life in environmentally friendly ways. Forward looking entrepreneurs need to move

[feature ]

away from today’s throw away society by developing sustainable, recyclable and creative design solutions to tackle the enormous problem of waste. Thanks to the support of our partners we can help Kent’s young people establish the creative enterprises of the future.”

The venue is designed to give young people the opportunity to learn how to use new and emerging technologies such as 3D printers and laser cutters as well as developing their marketing and business skills. Future Foundry has worked closely with the University of Kent’s School of Computing in order to ensure the equipment is cutting edge.

Students from the university have also helped showcase the many practical uses of the machines, including testing design ideas and building products that can be used as prototypes.

The high tech equipment in the heritage building will also be available to use on a subsidised basis for the wider community in Dover and the surrounding areas. Future plans for the creative start-up space include workshops run by the newly trained young people for families, the unemployed, over 55s and Dads and kids groups, as well as access to a hot-desking area for freelancers of all ages.

The organisation is currently running month-long free training programmes for young people. ‘Closing the Loop’ introduces budding entrepreneurs to the idea of the ‘Circular Economy’, where resources are reused and recycled in the manufacture of new products.

The course includes workshops about sustainable design, waste reduction and digital manufacturing. Future Foundry aims to help develop businesses that promote the circular economy in creative ways – which could be through a new product or service, upcycling, recycling, or by creating events, plays, installations and artworks that communicate the importance of reducing waste.

The first of these training programmes ran in October and the young people from across the county who are benefiting from Future Foundry’s support include Sian, a midwife at a neonatal unit, who is designing moveable, padded life size ‘hands’ which will help comfort babies in incubators when parents or staff are not able to touch them, along with soft clothes using vintage reclaimed fabric for premature babies; Jack, who makes furniture out of old skateboards; Seb, a young father upcycling pallets into furniture and Rose, who uses recycled t-shirt yarn to produce knitted clothing.

The 12-day programme runs at weekends and includes hands on making workshops, a visit to a recycling depot, and opportunities to pitch and present ideas to industry experts. There is also funding available for participants to develop their prototype product and test their business plans. The programme is currently running in Sheppey during November and December, and will extend to Gravesham in 2018.

for Future Foundry’s new oneyear programme for young creative entrepreneurs: offering training in business skills, freelancing, production, filmmaking, fashion, sculpture and fine art.

Future Foundry is supported by local government and organisations including: Kent County Council, Arts Council England, Dover Big Local, Countrystyle Recycling and Scape Reinvest Community Fund.

Tony Witton, Culture and Creative Economy Manager, Kent County Council said: “We are delighted to be working with Future Foundry to deliver the first ever open access space creative start up hub in Kent. Not only does it herald a new approach to managing waste by promoting a sustainable approach to the use of materials and manufacturing techniques, but it also forms a cornerstone for our approach to supporting the growth of the creative industries through mentoring, business support and signposting creative careers to encourage a new generation of creative entrepreneurs.”

For more information about Future Foundry, or to register interest in an upcoming training course, please contact lisa.oulton@futurefoundry.org.uk www.futurefoundry.org.uk https://www.facebook.com/ futurefoundry Twitter: @Future_Foundry

Applications are also now open 33

[feature ]

Determined Margate Student Achieves Millwood Excellence Award In Construction Harry Fowler, aged 17, from Garlinge, Margate, has been awarded the coveted Excellence in Construction prize by King Ethelbert School in Birchington-on-Sea, Kent. The prize is sponsored by Tonbridge-based homebuilder Millwood Designer Homes, as part of its prestigious annual Encouragement Pack initiative, which works with a number of local schools across Kent and East Sussex.

Harry showed tremendous commitment throughout his BTEC Level 2 Course in Construction and has recently gone on to study a Site Level 2 Carpentry and Joinery course at East Kent College, as well as undertaking an apprenticeship with Cornwall Carpentry. Roy Magro, Millwood’s Construction Director, met Harry on Wednesday 22nd November at Winter Gardens, Margate to present him with his prize of an engraved trophy, along with a £50 cheque and £50 book token.

Vicky Willis, Deputy Head teacher at King Ethelbert School comments: “We are all tremendously proud of Harry’s achievement in Construction.

In achieving a BTEC Level 2 Pass in Construction at Thanet Skills Studio, Harry showed an enthusiasm and 34

aptitude for practical work and now has a plan for his future that is both clear and focused. For his work experience in Year 10, Harry undertook a placement with Cornwall Carpentry who were so impressed by him, they said they would definitely want to employ him in the future. Harry is now completing a Site Level 2 Carpentry and Joinery course at East Kent College and true to their word, Harry has an apprenticeship with Cornwall Carpentry linked to his studies. He is a deserving winner of the Millwood School Award. Well done Harry!”

Harry, winner of the Millwood Designer Homes Prize for Construction, comments: “I am very proud to be awarded the Millwood Construction Prize. Studying construction and

carpentry has given me a focus and enjoyment that I did not always get from academic subjects at school. I want to thank my teacher at Thanet Skills Studio, Kevin Martin; he has taught me many invaluable skills and his passion for construction has opened up an exciting future for me. Once I become a fully qualified carpenter, I want to work in Liverpool and start up my own business in a few years’ time. Thank you to Millwood for awarding me this prize.”

Millwood currently has a range of individually designed homes available across Kent, Sussex and Surrey.

In Kent, Millwood has recently opened its doors to a beautiful show home at Brambledown in Maidstone and Windsor Meadows in Marden. At The Old Orchard in Sutton Valence, just two three bedroom semi-detached homes remain.

For more information on the properties available by Millwood Designer Homes, please visit www. millwooddesignerhomes.co.uk.

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[homes & interiors ]

We Wish You a Merry Christmas

BY GILLI GRAHAM AT PAPILLON INTERIORS Christmas is a wonderful time of year where we surround ourselves with loved ones and take time to reflect upon the importance of Family and the joy that they bring to us.

To me this is what Christmas means.

It may be far from the origins of Christmas but our modern day values and Christmas Traditions are still so valuable and important. To be able to reconnect and engage with the people you love and take time to truly embrace what you have is something that, as a nation, we generally don’t take time out to do. This is a truly special time of year.

One of my favourite things is decorating the home for Christmas creating a truly festive atmosphere, I am a stickler for the traditional wooden ornaments and who can forget the Christmas stocking!

There is a great story behind the origin of the Christmas stocking which I would like to share that with you. We all know the tradition of hanging the stocking on the fireplace and for those without a fireplace, you may find a place for your stocking on the bedpost or on the bannister post. Children eagerly finding homes for their stocking so that when Santa arrives on his reindeer led sleigh he will come down the Chimney and fill them with Christmas treats and small gifts.

When St. Nicholas heard of their plight he felt he must help the family. Hearing the Merchant to be a proud man whom would not look kindly upon receiving charity he knew he must do this secretly.

That night St. Nicholas rode by the merchant’s house and tossed three bags, each filled with gold coins, down the merchant’s chimney. As the bags fell they landed in the daughters stockings which were hanging by the fire to dry.

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The merchant and his three daughters rejoiced upon the discovery of the gold coins, the three young women all found suiters and were wed, living happily ever after…

When others heard the tale, children began to hang stockings by the fire in the hope that St. Nicholas would leave them a gift .

And to this day we still do. However, we have moved on slightly and offer husbands, wives and even pets a stocking to open on Christmas morning.

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Although there are many stories and none to be certain of, one I have found truly resonates the meaning of Christmas, a true show of goodwill and generosity toward others.

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As we’ve all heard, the origin of Santa Claus comes from St. Nicholas, this is how the legend started; St.Nicholas was making his way through a village, when he heard people tell of a merchant who was once a wealthy man but was now a widower with three beautiful daughters. He was now unable to offer dowries for his daughters so that they may wed, thus subjecting them to a life of shame.

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[homes & interiors ]

High Speed Rail Link Creates

ASHFORD HOUSING BOOM Ashford has risen to the challenge, with a forward-thinking local authority keen to fast-track quality housing development, complemented by improved employment, educational and recreational opportunities.

It’s been ten years since the launch of HS1, a high-speed rail service which has helped to transform Ashford’s appeal as a place to live. East Kent Lifestyle Publishing Director Pete Nichols investigates the positive impact fast train services have had on the borough’s housing market.

When sleek new Javelin trains arrived at the platforms of Ashford International, following the much-anticipated opening of the HS1 line, it marked the beginning of a new era for the town.

Not only have high-speed trains slashed journey times into London by more than half to just 38 minutes, they have also boosted Ashford’s appeal to home buyers in London who craved more space, more affordability and access to the countryside.

Today, house prices in Ashford are on average 34% lower than Greater London.

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Local estate agents have seen the district blossom into one of the South East’s residential relocation hotspots, and one of the few bucking this year’s regional trend of stagnating property prices.

Alex Davies, Managing Director of Hobbs Parker Estate Agents, told East Kent Lifestyle: “The arrival of HS1 has underpinned the local property market in recent years and its impact can be seen for 15 miles around Ashford. We no longer have to convince people about the merits of Ashford, it now sells itself.

“In the past the area has appealed to older, professional families attracted by period country homes and good schools.

Now we’re seeing younger couples coming in, buying apartments and pretty cottages.”

Paul Sharp, Associate Director of Warner Gray independent estate agents, added: “Since HS1 was launched, the Ashford district has reinvented itself and is firmly on the map when it comes to property.

“As an estate agent with 24 years experience, it has been evident that when large sums of money are invested in a town, this has had a direct and positive impact upon house prices, job

opportunities and always brings major retail stores and leisure brands to the area, not to mention schooling as well.”

Cllr Gerry Clarkson, Leader of Ashford Borough Council, is quick to dispel any thought that Ashford is just a commuter town.

He says while high-speed services had given Ashford’s commuters “two hours of their life back every day” to enjoy the benefits of a thriving, familyfriendly town surrounded by beautiful countryside, HS1 is also stimulating inward investment with 66 hectares of employment land and the creation of more than 11,000 new jobs included in the Local Plan.

New homes, built to exacting space and quality standards agreed with the council, are springing up to meet demand, in town centre and rural locations. Crest Nicholson scooped a Sunday Times award last month for its Finberry development of 1,100 homes, while 13,000 people will live in the Garden Town of Chilmington Green once it is a completed by a consortium of leading developers including Hodson Developments, Pentland Homes, Jarvis Homes and BDW (Barratt / Ward Homes).

For more information about Ashford visit www.ashfordfor.com

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EAST KENT PANTO PICKS You know it’s getting near to Christmas when you start seeing the posters out for the local pantomime, those slapstick pieces of inclusive family entertainment which run from late November through to the New Year, usually starring a smattering of TV actors or reality show contestants.

The origins of British Pantomime or “Panto” as it is known date back to the middle ages, taking on board the traditions of the Italian “Commedia dell’ Arte, the Italian night scenes and British Music hall to produce an intrinsic art form that constantly adapted to survive up to the present day.

As ever there are a whole host of theatres up and down the country offering up their takes on the classic panto stories, and we’re showcasing some of the best East Kent have to offer; from Peter

Pan at the Marlowe in Canterbury starring Shaun “Barry from Eastenders” Williamson, Cinderella at the Leas Cliff Hall in Folkestone, Jack & the Beanstalk at The Granville Theatre in Ramsgate, and The Wizard of Oz at the Theatre

Royal, Margate.We also have a preview of the fascinating new panto-based exhibition “Oh Yes It Is” at the wonderful Beaney House of Art & Knowledge in Canterbury city centre.

Enjoy the show!

PETER PAN @ The Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury SHAUN Williamson, Wendi Peters and Gemma Hunt top the bill in Peter Pan, this year’s Marlowe Theatre pantomime.

They are joined by Canterbury favourites, Ben Roddy and Lloyd Hollett.

Shaun, a regular visitor to The Marlowe but perhaps best known for his roles in EastEnders and Extras (and more recently Celebrity Big Brother), will play Captain Hook, while Wendi will take on the Mrs Darling/Mia the Mermaid/Big Chief Squatting Cow roles.Wendi, who was Cilla in Coronation Street, currently plays the Cook in the CBBC show, Hetty Feather. Both Shaun and Wendi have extensive theatre experience, including roles in West End musicals.

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Gemma (Tiger Lily) presents the popular CBeebies show, Swashbuckle. Ben once again plays the Dame, this year Mrs Smee, while Lloyd is Starkey. David Ribi, who is the main presenter on Channel 5’s Milkshake, will play Peter Pan, while Samantha Dorrance (the female lead in CBeebies’The Tale of Mister Tumble) is Wendy. Jo Osmond (Dr Who, Maleficent) plays Tinkerbell.

Peter Pan writer, director and co-producer Paul Hendy said the cast will appeal to lots of people:“We pride ourselves in giving Marlowe audiences a true family pantomime, and this has never been more true! We have someone for everyone of all ages, and, of course, we have real talent.The cast is very strong and will give another ‘wow’ production, as well as continuing The Marlowe quality brand.”

Peter Pan is at The Marlowe Theatre from Friday 24 November to Sunday 14 January 2018. For times, ticket prices and to book, call the Box Office on 01227 787787, or go to marlowetheatre.com.

See the website for details of the accessible performances.

Peter Pan is sponsored by Lipscomb Volvo and Whitefriars.

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Image: Ben Roddy as Mrs Smee in Peter Pan, this year’s Marlowe Theatre pantomime. Copyright: Tim Stubbings

[title ]

OH YES IT IS! Saturday 25 November to Sunday 18 February 2018

A celebration of the history of pantomime, told through one of the UK’s largest collections.

Laugh, boo and hiss at this brand new hands-on exhibition featuring posters, props and costume designs from the David Drummond collection, recently acquired by the University of Kent.

The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge 18 High Street, Canterbury CT1 2RA

Free admission thebeaney.co.uk A Beaney exhibition organised in partnership with the University of Kent Special Collections & Archives department, with special thanks to Evolution Productions.

Co-curated with Jo Dyer, Animate Arts Company.

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[arts & culture ]

“OH YES IT IS!” It’s Panto Exhibition Time at The Beaney, Canterbury

BY JAMES WILLIAMS, PHOTOGRAPHY (MRS SMEE) COPYRIGHT TIM STUBBINGS

on high quality production values, strong casting and genuinely funny scripts.

Pantomime season is almost here, and this year Canterbury is celebrating the history of this popular British institution in a brand new interactive exhibition at The Beaney.

Panto came to Britain in the 16th century having started out as a form of Italian street theatre, or ‘commedia dell’arte’. Over the centuries it has developed into a much loved tradition, and for many people, this popular genre is the first experience of the world of theatre.

Developed in partnership with the University of Kent Special Collections and Archives department, the new exhibition, titled ‘Oh Yes It Is!’, opened on Saturday 25th November and features items from the David Drummond collection. Recently acquired by the University of Kent, it is one of the largest collections of pantomime related material in the UK and includes posters, props, programmes and costume designs spanning over two hundred years.

The exhibition has a special section presented by David Drummond

celebrating the life and work of Joseph Grimaldi. An influential figure from the world of pantomime, Grimaldi expanded and developed the role of the clown within the harlequinade genre throughout the early 1800s.

The Beaney is also showcasing items from its own collection as part of the exhibition.

Interactive spaces allow visitors of all ages to immerse themselves in the genre and include Widow Twankey’s launderette, Dick Whittington’s road to London and the Giant’s library.

Children and the young at heart can enjoy pantomime-themed dressing up and colouring as well as a Dick Whittingtonthemed trail around the Beaney.There is also a graphical timeline tracking the people and wider historical events that have shaped and influenced pantomime since the 1700s.

The timeline concludes with an area featuring current set and costume designs kindly loaned by Evolution Productions.

Emily Wood and Paul Hendy started Evolution Productions in 2005 and have since built a reputation for superior, bespoke pantomimes with the emphasis

Chairman of Canterbury City Council’s Community Committee, Cllr Neil Baker, said:“Canterbury’s Marlowe Theatre is home to one of the best pantomimes in the country, so it makes perfect sense for The Beaney to host this celebration just around the corner. It’s a must-see exhibition for all panto fans and I’m sure it’s going to prove very popular.”

Paul Hendy said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be working with the Beaney on this incredible pantomime exhibition.

I was lucky enough to be given a sneak preview of some of the exhibits and it’s a marvellous insight into British culture over the last 150 years. Pantomime is a truly unique British tradition and it’s wonderful that it is being celebrated in this way.”

The exhibition coincides with Canterbury’s 2017 pantomime, Peter Pan, which runs from Friday 24th November at the Marlowe Theatre.

‘Oh Yes It Is!’ is free to visit and runs from Saturday 25 November to Sunday 18 February 2018 in the Special Exhibitions Room at The Beaney. It is organised in partnership with the University of Kent Special Collections and Archives department, with special thanks to Evolution Productions, and co-curated with Jo Dyer from Animate Arts Company.

For full details visit www.thebeaney.co.uk or call 01227 862162.

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[title ]

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[arts & culture ]

“FEE-FI-FO-FUM” THIS “GIANT” OF ALL PANTOMIMES IS FULL OF FUN! JACK & THE BEANSTALK AT THE GRANVILLE THEATRE, RAMSGATE

This year’s spectacular production of Jack and the Beanstalk contains all the essential ingredients of the traditional family entertainment that the Granville has been producing for over 10 years. Colourful costume and settings, superb actors and vocalists, highenergy choreography and lots of audience participation come as standard and to top it all a dancing Cow! Local favourite Frank Tucker returns for his 9th year as “Dame Trot”. Jonathon Fox, whose wicked “Abanaza” thrilled last year’s audiences, returns as “Baron Fleshcreep” and James Freeman, last year’s “Wishee Washee”, bounces back as “Silly Simon”. New faces include Laura Joely Regan, playing the title role of “Jack” and Issy Anstead as his

feisty friend “Jill”. Michaela BennettsHiggins, who appeared in the Granville’s “Sleeping Beauty” and “Cinderella”, returns as the hilarious “Fairy Wigglebottom”.

The favourite fairy-tale centres on idle villager Jack who risks all to rescue the love of his life by climbing up the Beanstalk and exploring the Giant’s spooky castle. The production is packed with great comedy, high drama, big company routines and many spectacular effects.

better get a “moo”ve on to book tickets for this “cream” of a pantomime for there’s not an “udder” in Thanet like it!

“Jack and the Beanstalk” opens on 14th December and runs until the 3rd January. Tickets are available from the Theatre Box Office (01843 8591750) open daily from 4pm to 8pm.

Daisy the Cow, who thinks she is the star of the show, says you had

Wicked Productions Bring The Wizard of Oz to Margate’s Theatre Royal After last year’s Christmas Panto, Peter Pan, broke box office records, Wicked Productions and Captiv8 are back at Margate’s Theatre Royal with their fantastic production of the classic, ‘The Wizard of Oz” The laugh out loud family pantomime.

This will be Wicked Productions third spectacular year at the Theatre Royal this Christmas with a pantomime version of, ‘The Wizard of Oz’.

Join Kansas girl Dorothy Gale, as she’s blown away to the magical and enchanted land of Oz.

On her journey to the Emerald City, she is joined by a Scarecrow – with no brain, a Tin Man – with no heart, and a Cowardly Lion. Will their wishes be granted by the all-powerful Wizard of Oz, or will their plan be thwarted by the Wicked Witch of the West?

‘Jezo’ returns for his third year to play the lovable and hilarious Scarecrow, whilst Margate pantomime favourite, Georgia Rowland-Elliott, will return to play Dorothy.

With chart-topping songs, opulent costumes, a stunning set, and endless effects – this Christmas Pantomime promises to be a lavish laugh-a-minute family show!

A tornado of laughs – don’t miss out on this production of, ‘The Wizard of Oz’.

This is a pantomime version of The Wizard of Oz and will not feature any of the songs from the original MGM movie.

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[arts & culture ] Leas Cliff Hall - A5 - Cinderella.pdf 1 01/09/2017 14:15:42

Leas Cliff Hall - A5 - Cinderella.pdf 2 01/09/2017 14:15:44

Director: Bob Osborne | Producer : Neil Hunnisett | Choreographer: Chloe Scott

CT Productions & The Leas Cliff HALL Invite you to the ball

Director: Bob Osborne | Producer : Neil Hunnisett | Choreographer: Chloe Scott

Join Us this Christmas for everyone’s favourite fairytale, Cinderella, a spectacular pantomime from the creative team behind last year’s smash hit jack and the beanstalk

LEAS CLIFF HALL

HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

Amazing special effects, stunning costumes and sets, the perfect mix of song and dance, and a host of hilarious jokes ensure this is a treat for the whole family.

F - FAMILY OFFER Best offer - £55.60 when you buy 4 tickets (Must include 2 children) G - GROUPS Best offer - 10% off per ticket for groups of 10+ C

C

M

M

Y

Y

CM

CM

MY

MY

CY

CY

CMY

CMY

K

K

WED 13TH - SAT 30TH DEC 2017

(RELAXED PERFORMANCE WILL BE SUNDAY 17TH DECEMBER 2PM)

FAMILY TICKET FROM £48.00 (4 PEOPLE) ADULT TICKET FROM £14.15 CHILD TICKET FROM £12.15 WWW.ATGTICKETS.COM/FOLKESTONE

S - SCHOOLS AND UNIFORMED GROUPS £15 per student plus buy one get one free R - RELAXED PERFORMANCE per student plus buy one get one free

December 2017 Wednesday 13th 10.15am G S | 1.30pm G S

Sunday 17th 2 pm R F G

Friday 22nd 2pm F G

Wednesday 27th 2pm F G

Thursday 14th 10.15am G S | 1.30pm G S 5.30pm

Monday 18th No Performances

Saturday 23rd 2 pm F G | 6pm F G

Thursday 28th 2pm F G

Tuesday 19th 6pm F G

Sunday 24th 2pm F G

Friday 29th 2pm F G

Wednesday 20th 2pm F G

Monday 25th Merry Christmas

Saturday 30th 2pm

Thursday 21st 2pm F G

Tuesday 26th No Performances

Friday 15th 10.15am G S | 1.30pm G S 5.30pm F G Saturday 16th 2pm F G

LEAS CLIFF HALL

WWW.ATGTICKETS.COM/FOLKESTONE

HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

web: folkestonepanto.com | Box Office: 0844 871 3035

web: folkestonepanto.com | Box Office: 0844 871 3035

Cinderella Comes to the Leas Cliff Hall cast, a majority of which are returning following last year’s extravaganza Jack and the Beanstalk. We promise this will be our most spectacular production with our magical Winter Wonderland finale.

This energetic Panto from CT Productions is running from Wednesday 13th to Saturday 30th December and has amazing special effects, stunning costume and sets, the perfect mix of song and dance and a host of hilarious jokes making it the perfect Christmas treat for all the family!

The leas Cliff Hall are delighted to invite you to our eleventh annual Pantomime Cinderella at the Leas Cliff Hall.

Directed by Bob Osborne and adapted

by Bob Osborne and Paul Ketley,

produced by Neil Hunnisett, and Choreography by Chloe Scott.

Everyone is delighted to be appearing at the Leas Cliff Hall over the Christmas period, which is traditional all over the country. We don’t need stars to enhance our production, we have a very talented

Evangeline Hogg will be starring as Cinderella, Callum Erskine as Prince Charming, along with lots of school children from the local area.

Tickets are available from the Leas Cliff Hall box office now . . . The clock is ticking… don’t be late!!!!

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[cover story ]

John Travolta

John Travolta is one of Hollywood’s most enduring stars. From the embodiment of disco culture to gritty noir hitman, his iconic roles have resulted in a momentous career spanning over four decades. Fresh from his appearance as lawyer Robert Shapiro in The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story, Travolta’s next big screen outing will see him tackle the story of one of New York’s most notorious gangsters.

51

[cover story ]

The youngest of six children, Travolta was born in Englewood, New Jersey in 1954. His father was a secondgeneration Italian-American tire salesman, and his mother was an actress and singer before becoming a teacher.

It was his mother Helen who first encouraged Travolta to pursue acting as a profession, enrolling him in a drama school in New York where he studied voice, dancing and acting.

After finding several small roles in summer productions and commercials, at age eighteen Travolta landed his first Broadway role in a production of Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey’s musical, Grease. Travolta’s first significant film role would follow in 1976 when he appeared as bully Billy Nolan in Carrie. He became a star of the small screen with his television debut as cocky teen heartthrob Vinnie Barbarino in ABC’s sitcom Welcome Back, Kotter (1975-1979).

In 1977 Travolta was catapulted to superstardom as Tony Manero in Saturday Night Fever. Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, the film’s depiction of working class kids in Brooklyn’s Bay Ridge neighbourhood seeking escapism through dance captivated audiences and became

52

a cultural phenomenon. Travolta’s famous white suit from the film was displayed as part of the Victoria and Albert Museum’s Hollywood costume exhibition in 2012, one of the museum’s most visited installations.

At age 24, Travolta was nominated for an Oscar for Best Actor for Saturday Night Fever, one of the youngest actors to be considered for the award. “I always knew how lucky I was,” he told Celia Walden in an interview for the Telegraph in 2014, “So actually I was quite humbled by success when it came.”

Success would continue for Travolta the following year with the release of the film adaptation of Grease (1978), one of the highest grossing live action movie musicals of all time. An instantly-recognisable homage to the 1950s, the film and Travolta’s role of good-hearted bad boy Danny Zuko have enduring popularity.

The 80s, however, would see Travolta’s career take a down turn. After receiving critical praise for his role in romantic drama Urban Cowboy (1980), he starred in a string of critical and financial flops including the panned Saturday Night Fever sequel, Staying Alive (1983). He turned down the lead in An Officer and a Gentleman (1982), which would

go on to be a huge box office hit for Richard Gere.

Comedy, Look Who’s Talking (1989) and its sequels would put Travolta back on the map in the late 80s, but true career revitalisation would come in the form of Quentin Tarantino’s 1994 postmodern black comedy Pulp Fiction.

After deliberating over joining the cast for six months Travolta starred alongside Samuel L. Jackson and Uma Thurman as hitman Vincent Vega, earning a second Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. The film would go on to be considered Tarantino’s masterpiece, and one of the most significant and influential films of the 90s.

“I think I was at a point where I had felt I’d done well in my career, but I never imagined that one project could give me that kind of second career, where I was offered the A scripts again and the Oscar-contender scripts.” Travolta said of his career revival to Parade magazine.

“There aren’t many examples of that in the history of cinema, so I was very honoured and privileged that I had that little niche.”

His A-List status restored, Travolta would go on to win a Golden Globe for his appearance in crime comedy Get Shorty (1995), and would appear in several

[cover story ] notable films over the next decade including John Woo’s blockbuster Face/ Off (1997) alongside Nicolas Cage.

Last year Travolta appeared back on the small screen in 10-episode true crime series The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story, based on the infamous murder case which saw the former NFL player on trial for the murder of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman.

Travolta plays defence lawyer Robert Shapiro, head of Simpson’s legal team, and received several award nominations including the Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie. He also received the 2017 Producers Guild of America award as part of the series production team.

"This is a powerful, tragic, true, yet entertaining program, which is a very unusual combination," He says, speaking to GQ’s Caity Weaver about the series, "But…it's magnetic in the level of quality that it was done. It's a definition of entertainment that's quite different from, you know, Grease. It helps that perhaps it creates understanding in other people.”

Travolta is married to actress Kelly Preston who he met while filming The Experts (1989). The couple are both Scientologists. They married in 1991 and had three children, son Jett in 1992, daughter Ella Bleu in 2000 and son Benjamin in 2010. Their eldest son Jett was autistic and suffered from Kawasaki disease as a child.

Tragically, Jett passed away following a seizure in 2009 at the couple’s holiday home in the Bahamas. After his son’s passing, Travolta founded the Jett Travolta Foundation, a non-profit organisation supporting many causes including disaster relief and aiding special needs children.

Many Travolta fans may be surprised to learn that he is a keen aviation enthusiast and certified pilot. Ambassador for Australian flag carrier airline Quantas, he holds jet licenses and type ratings for multiple plane types. The love of all things flying extends to his home life as well, with the couple being one of the first to purchase land in Jumbloair, a 550-acre fly-in community in Anthony, Florida which boasts a private two runway airport as well as private airstrips and hangars for residents.

Travolta owned a private Boeing 707 for many years and used it to aid relief efforts in New Orleans after the 2005 hurricane, and flew medical supplies and doctors into the disaster zone after the 2010 Haiti earthquake. In May this year he announced the plane would be donated to the Historical Aircraft Restoration Society in Wollongong, Australia.

Travolta’s next big screen project is Gotti, based on the life of ItalianAmerican gangster John Gotti and his rise to prominence as the boss of New York’s powerful Gambino crime family.

“There's always two sides to a story,” Travolta said, talking to ABC news about what drew him to the role.

“They had a very human other side of existence, which is their family and their trials and tribulations.”

Known by the nickname “Teflon Don” after his acquittal following three highprofile trials in the 1980s, Gotti was finally convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment without parole in 1992.

He died of cancer in prison at age 61. His son, John Gotti Jr. is a key advisor for the film and frequently visited the set.

Gotti also stars Travolta’s wife Kelly Preston as Gotti’s wife Victoria, and their daughter Ella Bleu Travolta is set to make an appearance as Angel Gotti, the mobster’s daughter.

Quotes Saturday Night Fever Success Career Revival People v. O.J. Gotti 53

YOUR Stellar Entertainment at Margate Theatres [title ]

Theatre Royal

The Wizard of Oz - Panto 9-31 December

Morgan & West The Return of the Time-Travelling Magicians Saturday 3 March

Mark Thomas A Show that Gambles on the Future Thursday 14 December Milton Jones Is Out There Sunday 4 March

The Memory Box Inspiration Inclusive Youth Theatre* Lloyd Cole 3 & 4 February The Retrospective Tour Thursday 8 March The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde Thursday 8 February

Winter Gardens

M.O.S. Panto Sleeping Beauty* 29 November - 3 December

Winter Wonderland 1-23 December

That’ll Be The Day Friday 9 February

The King is Back Saturday 10 February

The Darkness UK Tour Wednesday 6 December

Magic of Motown Friday 2 March Teechers Saturday 10 March You’ve Got a Friend NYJO Presents The Music of James Taylor & Carole The Great American Songbook King Friday 16 March Saturday 10 February Griff Rhys Jones Police Panto 2018 Where Was I? Cinder-Ella Saturday 17 March 15-17 February

Chas & Dave Friday 8 December Jethro The Bull & Bonkers Tour Wednesday 17 January Jason Manford Saturday 3 March

RENT - The Musical* 22-24 February From Ibiza to the Norfolk Broads Sunday 25 February Morgan & West More Magic for Kids Saturday 3 March

Your Leisure working in partnership with:

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Fifty Years of the Stylistics Saturday 27 January Monstersaurus!

Sunday 18 March

Jim Davidson On the Road Again Friday 2 February

Jake Bugg Solo Acoustic Tour Wednesday 7 March

**A Local Production Box Office: 01843 292795 margatewintergardens.co.uk | theatreroyalmargate.com

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ART GALLERY AND GIFT SHOP OPENING HOURS: 10AM-5PM MONDAY TO SATURDAY 43 QUEEN ST RAMSGATE CT11 9DZ 01843 597428 55

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It is a painful fact that separated parents cannot always agree on Christmas arrangements for their children.

Nonetheless, parents in this position are well advised to “grasp the nettle� and make arrangements as soon as possible, because leaving matters to the last minute risks a lot of upset, even heartbreak, as well as increased hostility.

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If you find that you cannot reach an agreement with your former partner or spouse, you may need specific Legal advice that is tailored to your circumstances. We will discuss with you various options and guide you through what are often difficult and complex issues. We will provide you with specific advice that is tailored to your individual circumstances to help

you seek a resolution that works well for your children and for you.

We also provide advice on a wide range of other family matters, including the legal process concerning separation, divorce and the associated financial issues.

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06/03/2014 10:15

[food and drink ]

COCKTAILS For most of us, Christmas is the one time of the year we break out that expensive looking cocktail making kit we received as a gift or bought on a whim all those years ago. So to celebrate the occasion, here are a few festive favourites for you to get stuck into this yuletide!

EGG NOG

This famous North American favourite is packed full of creamy flavour with a nice alcoholic punch to boot!

Recipe makes 8 glasses INGREDIENTS

 700ml whole milk  240ml double cream  3 cinnamon sticks  1 vanilla pod, split and seeds removed  1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, plus more for garnish  5 eggs, separated  130gh cup granulated sugar  175ml Bacardi Dark Rum METHOD

1. I n a saucepan, combine the milk, cream, cinnamon, vanilla bean and seeds and nutmeg. Bring to the boil over a medium heat – once boiling, remove from the heat and allow to sleep.

2. I n a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until combined and thick ribbons form when the whisk is lifted. Slowly add the milk mixture and continue to whisk until it’s all combined and smooth.

3. Add the rum and stir. Refrigerate overnight or for up to 3 days.

4. B efore serving, whisk the egg whites in a large bowl or stand mixer until soft peaks form. Gently fold into the chilled eggnog until combined.

Serve and garnish with freshly grated nutmeg and a cinnamon stick.

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MINCE PIE MARTINI

Rather than leaving pies and a wee dram of liquor out for Santa this year, save the big fella little bit of time (he’ll need it – after all he only gets one night to cross the entire globe!) with this mince pie martini!

Recipe makes 4 glasses bring to the boil. Cool and strain INGREDIENTS through muslin into a sieve.

• 100g golden caster sugar 2. S eparately, mix the caster sugar • 50g mincemeat and mixed spice, then dampen the • 4 tbsp caster sugar rims of 4 Martini glasses and dip • 4 tsp mixed spice in the sugar and spice mixture • 4 tsp mincemeat 3. M ix the 50g mincemeat in a • 100ml gin cocktail shaker (you may need to • 100ml sweet red vermouth make in 2 batches), then add the • 20ml dark rum gin, sweet red vermouth, dark METHOD rum, mincemeat syrup and ice.

1. To make the mincemeat syrup, put 4. S hake well and strain into your 100ml water, golden caster sugar prepared glasses. and 4 tsp mincemeat in a pan and

[food and drink ]

MULLED WINE

Whether you’ve just come home from your traditional Christmas Day walk, or spent the afternoon with the kids in the park on their new bikes/scooters/ skate you’re going to need a proper winter warmer – there’s no other choice, it’s got to be mulled wine!

Recipe makes 5 glasses

SNOWBALL

Like Egg Nog, a Snowball is another creamy Christmas favourite to sip while you’re decorating the tree!

Recipe makes 5 glasses INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

• 1 bottle red wine • 60g Demerara sugar • 1 cinnamon stick • Grated nutmeg • 1 orange, halved • 1 dried bay leaf • 100ml sloe gin

1. P ut the wine, orange, bay leaf, sugar and spices in a saucepan 2. H eat gently until the sugar has dissolved. Taste to see if you want the wine sweeter – sweeten to your liking.

3. R emove from the heat and stir in the gin.

4. S train into heatproof glasses and serve immediately.

• 200ml advocaat • 50ml lime juice • 375ml lemonade METHOD

1. Shake the advocaat and lime juice together 2. Pour into an ice filled highball and top up with lemonade

QUICK & EASIES

A few classic chrimbo crackers which don’t require too much work, but it’s important to get those measures and mixes just right!

KIR ROYALE

BUCKS FIZZ

PEACH BELLINI

Recipe makes one glass

First thing Christmas morning, even before the kids tear into their wrapping paper, I’m already on the Bucks Fizz to see me through the morning of kiddie-based chaos!

Recipe makes one glass

Recipe makes one glass

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

INGREDIENTS

• 90ml champagne • 10ml Crème de Cassis METHOD

1. Pour the Crème de Cassis into a flute then top-up with champagne

• 117ml champagne • 58ml orange juice METHOD

INGREDIENTS

• 100ml proseccco • 50ml peach puree

1. P our the peach puree into a chilled glass and then add the prosecco 2. S tir gently, top with a slice of peach (optional) and enjoy!

1. P our 1 part orange juice into a flute and then add 2 parts champagne 2. Stir gently and enjoy!

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[food and drink ]

LEE BEHAN Lee's love affair with food started at an early age, joining his Chef father in professional kitchens every spare weekend or holiday available. At the tender age of 13 he cooked dessert for a list of dignitaries which included HRH Princess Anne; opting for a seasonal Summer Pudding with clotted cream.

As he notes himself "it involved no real cooking". Lee has had the opportunity to cook with many of the UK's leading chef's including Mark Hix, Anna Hansen MBE and Gizzie Erksine; celebrities such as actress and designer Sadie Frost, singer Boy George and Hollywood actor Stanley Tucci have all enjoyed Lee's food via varied & epic fundraising dinners.

Winter

CHOCOLATE Torte

BY LEE BEHAN

It’s that time of year where everything becomes decadent and we eat ourselves to excess. The old familiar scent of orange & cinnamon wafts the air, whilst we bask in the glow of twinkly lights from the tree.

Of course, we all love those special Christmas treats – the puds, the sweets, the one-a-year-treats, but prepping all that lovely food can be time-consuming and stressful. Not so this delicious Chocolate Torte. Simply to prepare, quick to cook, and mouth-watering to taste. Happy holidays!

INGREDIENTS:  150G DARK CHOCOLATE (70% COCOA SOLIDS)  1125G UNSALTED BUTTER  15 EGGS SEPARATED (KEEP THE YOLK AND THE WHITE)  1175G LIGHT BROWN SOFT SUGAR  1175G GROUND ALMONDS  11/2 TSP ALLSPICE  1ZEST OF 1 ORANGE  1ICING SUGAR FOR DUSTING

METHOD:

1 Preheat oven to 150°C/fan 130°C/gas 2. Line the base of a 23cm (9in) diameter cake tin with parchment and butter the sides. Melt the butter and chocolate in a bowl placed over a pan of simmering water (don’t let the water touch the bowl). Remove from heat and cool.

2 In a clean, dry bowl whisk the egg whites until they form peaks. Mix the sugar, almonds, all spice and grated orange zest in the chocolate mixture, then stir in the egg yolks and 100ml (3½fl oz) amaretto. Fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture. Pour into the tin and bake for 30 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean. Allow to cool for a few minutes before dusting with snow (icing sugar) 3 Serve on its own or with lightly whipped double cream 63

[food and drink ]

The Cliffe Village

PUB & KITCHEN

BY BENJAMIN PHINEAS LONDON

A dark and blustery Monday evening set the scene for a most welcome visit to explore the culinary delights of the The Cliffe Village pub and Kitchen in St.Margarets-at-cliffe.

Having only recently moved to Kent, I’m still experiencing the excitement and anticipation of discovering new places around every corner and upon arriving in St.Margaretsat-cliffe I was immediately struck by the delightful village setting of quaint, well maintained cottages and country houses. At the centre of the St.Margaret’s at Cliffe lay The Cliffe Village Pub & Kitchen, which is clearly the heart of the village.

Approaching the entrance, I noticed a decent metal bike rack and track bike pump. As a keen cyclist myself, I found this attention to detail, and customer centric focus, very pleasing.

I suddenly drifted off into a day dream and began planning my next cycling adventure around the Dover coastline, conquering the hills and climbs of the white cliffs, with the sole purpose of finishing here with a delicious pint and a hearty meal!

64

As we entered the lobby of the hotel and bar, we were welcomed by a wondrously cosy open log fire and the nostalgic smell of the wood crackling in the hearth before settling down for a quick drink before dinner.

At the bar we settled down to warm up on one of the two inviting sofas situated beside a wood burning stove. The bar itself was generously stocked with a wide array of ales, wines (including some fabulous local Chapel Down wines) and bar snacks.

The bar would have been enough of a draw with it tempting selections of beers and fine wines, but the thought of spending a lazy, Sunday afternoon playing one of the many board games, reading the papers and enjoying a decent pint and Sunday roast, got me thinking that I could easily make this place my new ‘local'.

Both chefs, locally trained, know the area, and most importantly the local

produce very well. We were welcomed

by Jordan, the sous chef, who eagerly helped with the menu choices, giving his recommendations and plenty of extra information about the fresh, local produce. The steaks are freshly cut to order, the apples are locally sourced for the homeliest apple crumble, and the salami being sourced from the Kent Charcuterie were just a few of the tidbits imparted on us by the enthusiastic sous chef.

Being early evening on a Monday night, the restaurant was pleasantly intimate making this the ideal venue for a romantic dinner date. The weekends offer a vibrant feel, making it ideal for families and meals out with friends. We nursed our drinks (orange juice for me, irritatingly being designated driver, while my fiancée happily quaffed a crisp Pouilly Fume!) before, at our own convenience, idly wandering over to the dining room –

[food and drink ]

although the informality of the Cliffe Pub & Kitchen is such that food can be taken in the bar if you so wish.

I did treat myself to a glass of wine with my meal, taking the advice of our waiter, Tom and opting for the superb Chapel Down Rose.

On to the food…

The appetizers were exactly what they promised and more. I chose the Goat’s Cheese with chili jam, though I have to confess to coveting the seemingly endless bowl of beautifully cooked Mussels my partner had settled on (so plentiful that luckily I had to assist her!).

Thankfully, I hadn’t filled up too much before the arrival of my main

course; Roasted Cornfed Chicken, Roasted Squash, Seasonal Greens, New potatoes and Pan Roasting Juices, recommended by Jordan on our arrival. If ever I was craving some good, hearty, home-cooked, food then it was on this cold and blustery November evening – and I wasn’t disappointed.

My partner chose the Smoked Cod Chowder with White Beans, Mussels, Dulse and Dill. True to form, her meal was wonderfully cooked, delicately seasoned and each mouthful presented a new taste sensation.

Feeling the need to complete three courses we plumped for 5 scoops of the most delicious home made ice creams and sorbets. We became totally absorbed

with deciding our favourite flavours through extended discussion, although it was a tough choice given the choices of Ginger cake, Birds Custard, Coffee, Bellini Sorbet & Plum Sorbet. I think the Bellini Sorbet eventually got my vote.

My only complaint about the evening was that my fiancée managed to enjoy a few more alcoholic beverages than I did. However, having noticed that the Cliffe also offers plenty of fantastic looking boutique hotel rooms at very reasonable prices, I made a mental note that the next time we visit I won’t be sticking to just the one glass of wine!

65

Drink - Eat - Sleep Welcome to our family run, award winning restaurant with rooms. An historic old inn, opposite the church in the wonderful village of Wingham. Drink in the Lounge Bar and enjoy our famous Gin Bar. Eat breakfast, lunch or dinner in the restaurant or garden. Sleep in one of our eight luxury en-suite guest rooms.

Restaurant and Bar with Rooms, Car Park and Garden. Open 7 days a week all year round.

For special offers and event information visit our website or find us on Facebook.

01227 720 339 | info@thedog.co.uk The Dog At Wingham, Canterbury Road, Wingham, Nr Canterbury, Kent, CT3 1BB www.thedog.co.uk 66

   

[food and drink ]

Rajdani named Best Indian Restaurant in South East England A Kent curry house, The Rajdani in West Kingsdown near Sevenoaks, has been named as the Best Indian Restaurant in the South East at the prestigious Asian Curry Awards 2017.

Over 1,000 VIP guests attended a glittering gala dinner at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London on Sunday 12th November, to honour the winners of the 7th Asian Curry Awards, organised by the Asian Catering Federation (ACF).

made the shortlist to showcase the talents of our head chef Jimmy Shah and his hard-working team,” said Rob, adding “Kent is home to some excellence Asian restaurants, so to be judged best of the bunch is high praise indeed.”

The awards were co presented by BBC Master Chef ’s Greg Wallace and former Sky TV news anchor Samantha Simmons.

The Rajdani was in excellent company during the awards programme, with internationally famous London venues scooping other top accolades, including Michelin-starred and Quilon. A full list of national and regional winners can be viewed at www.asiancurryawards.com.

The family-run restaurant has celebrated its twentieth anniversary next year, and owner Rob Khan promises to lay on a night to remember to commemorate the landmark.

“We are indebted to our loyal customers who nominated us for this prestigious award, making sure we

The restaurant, which was opened by Rob’s father, Abdul, and cousin Suna Miah, two decades ago takes its name from the Bengali term for ‘Capital City.’

In days gone by, the finest spices and other culinary ingredients could only be sourced together in the capital’s food markets. So this was where the best chefs and restaurants chefs were found.

Today, ‘Rajdani’ is more commonly used as the colloquial Bengali term for ‘town’.

The Rajdani is open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week and kick start the weekend with live music every Friday night.

“CONFIDENT, BEAUTIFULLY EXECUTED COOKING” “THEY’RE A REVELATION” DAILY MAIL Tom Parker Bowles

MULTI AWARD WINNING RESTAURANTS FROM DEV BISWAL

MARGATE

Call 01843 231 504 44 KING STREET MARGATE OLD TOWN KENT CT9 1QE

CANTERBURY

Call 01227 200 777 14-15 BEER CART LANE CANTERBURY KENT CT1 2NY

emma@theambrette.co.uk

|

www.theambrette.co.uk 67

[food and drink ]

STAR BAKER

CHETNA MAKAN

JOINS TASTE OF KENT JUDGING PANEL

The entries to Produced in Kent’s Taste of Kent Awards 2018, food product categories will this year be judged by Great British Bake off 2014 semi-finalist and Broadstairs resident Chetna Makan.

Chetna Makan is a food writer and her first book,The Cardamom Trail, was a celebration of baking with Indian flavours. Her new book ‘Chai, Chaat & Chutney’ is a journey of street food through India. She has a very popular YouTube channel ‘Food with Chetna’ and was part of the Great British bake off in 2014.

Stephanie Durling at Produced in Kent comments: “We are delighted to welcome Chetna to our panel of judges.

She brings great knowledge of many complex flavours and ingredients and we are looking to find which are simply the best tasting food products of Kent.

We judge a wide range of products from chutney to dairy for this award.

Producers from across Kent are invited to submit their entries to this category by going to Taste of Kent website (www. tasteofkentawards.co.uk) Jonathan Neame, Chief Executive of Shepherd Neame, Britain’s oldest brewer 68

and sponsor of this category added “It’s great that Chetna is bringing her expertise and discernment to the Taste of Kent Awards, the standards of food produced in Kent are so high and they require a judge of her calibre.”

There are 5 classes in this year’s awards – the winner of each class will be automatically entered for the top award as the ‘Kent Food Product of the Year’.

1. Ambient (Preserves, chutneys, sauces and oils) 2. Dairy (All dairy products) 3. B akery and confectionery (Bread, baked goods, flour, confectionery & snacks) 4. P repared Foods (Savoury/sweet pies, cooked/cured meats, sausages, pates, ready meals etc) 5. S pecialist Drinks (Drinks not classified elsewhere in the awards categories)

Chetna says “I am delighted to join the judging panel and looking forward to tasting the wonderful variety of Kentish products “ The Taste of Kent Awards is now in its fourteenth year and is widely recognised as the outstanding annual showcase of Kent food and drink.The awards promote a wide range of categories and are open to all food and drink businesses across Kent. The campaign begins each year with the soft fruit winners followed by the top fruit winners and continues with the commencement of public voting between September and early January.

Public voting for the Taste of Kent Awards 2018 is now open.To cast your vote simply visit www.tasteofkentawards. co.uk before 2nd January 2018. The awards presentation dinner will take place on 8th March 2018.

[food and drink ]

PARTY TIME IN TOWNLEY'S AT ALBION HOUSE Join us for your 2017 Christmas party for spectacular views, great atmosphere and delicious, locally sourced food.

THREE COURSES - £29.50pp MIDWEEK PARTIES Enjoy a complimentary glass of Prosecco on arrival.

Book for 20 people amd receive 30% off our sea view rooms from Sunday to ursday Bookings available from 1st December to early January.

Early Bookings recommended.

Visit our website to view full menus.

BOOK NOW BY CALLING OR EMAILING US www.townleysramsgate.co.uk townleys@albionhouseramsgate.co.uk 01843 606 630

TOWNLEY’S, ALBION HOUSE, ALBION PLACE, RAMSGATE, CT11 8HQ

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[food and drink ]

THE V E R Y BE S T T H AT KE NT H A S TO O F F E R !

HA ND-P IC K YOU R GOOD S A N D L E T U S C R E AT E YO U T H E PE R F ECT GI F T F OR C HR IS TM A S WIT H OU R B E S POKE H A M PE R S !

FU L L R A NG E OF B E AU T I F U L WI CKE R H A M P E R S TO CH OOS E F R OM .

A brand new shop in the eclectic old town of Margate selling the finest artisan products sourced only from Kent.

Wines - confectionery – cheeses – coffees and teas From ‘Curiously Kentish’ pickles, chutneys, jams & salamis ‘Romney Marsh Wool’ goods – male grooming products from ‘Beard Juice’ –Hand made pottery ENJOY A GREAT COFFEE AND PASTRY IN OUR COFFEE SHOP GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE | OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

The Kentish Pantry 1 Duke Street, Old Town Margate CT9 1EP Tel: 01843 231150 www.thekentishpantry.co.uk

A NEW RANGE OF FINE FOODS PRODUCED

IN THE GARDEN OF ENGLAND 151 Minnis Road, Birchington, Kent, CT7 9NS 01843 841180 - Info.curiouslykentish.co.uk

f curiouslykentish l @curiouslykent 70

THE MI

I S B AY

BAR & BRASSERIE M I N N I S B A Y, C T 7 9 Q P

SE A SI D E D I N I N G W I T H A ST U N N I N G V I EW

Overlooking one of the finest beaches on the North Kent Coast, the newly refurbished

MINNIS BAY BAR & BRASSERIE is a relaxed, stylish venue that offers Truly outstanding views Great food made from fresh, local produce An extensive drinks list Friendly service Alfresco dining Take away hot drinks & snacks

Now offering a superb new private 1st floor function suite with it’s own bar & balcony sun terrace, making the

MINNIS BAY BAR & BRASSERIE the perfect venue for a special celebration or even a wedding reception!

www.theminnis.co.uk T: 01843 841844

E: minnisbay@shepherd-neame.co.uk The Parade, Birchington, Kent, CT7 9QP

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[food and drink ]

Spring Fair Friday 30th March – Sunday 2nd April 2018 With over 50 Kent food and drink producers Broadstairs will be coming alive next Easter with the return of the Spring Fair.

Pierremont Park Grounds, Broadstairs CT10 1JX – FREE entry

broadstairsfoodfestival.org.uk @broadstairsfoodfestival #broadiefoodfest Assistance dogs only – thank you.

AT DEAL, HYTHE, & DOVER • Open 7 days a week

• Full restaurant service from 12 noon until 10 p.m.

HYTHE BAY SEAFOOD RESTAURANT IN DEAL

Tel: 01304 365555 Email: deal@hythebay.co.uk 41-45 Beach St, Deal CT14 6HY 72

• Fully Licensed Bar

• Non Fish and Vegetarian options and Children's Menu available

HYTHE BAY SEAFOOD RESTAURANT IN HYTHE

Tel: 01303 233844 Email: hythe@hythebay.co.uk Marine Parade, Hythe, CT21 6AW

HYTHE BAY SEAFOOD RESTAURANT IN DOVER

Tel: 01304 207740 Email: dover@hythebay.co.uk The Esplanade, Dover, Kent CT17 9FS

[food and drink ]

COTTAGE PIE

BY LEE BEHAN

LEE BEHAN Lee's love affair with food started at an early age, joining his Chef father in professional kitchens every spare weekend or holiday available. At the tender age of 13 he cooked dessert for a list of dignitaries which included HRH Princess Anne; opting for a seasonal Summer Pudding with clotted cream.

As he notes himself "it involved no real cooking". Lee has had the opportunity to cook with many of the UK's leading chef's including Mark Hix, Anna Hansen MBE and Gizzie Erksine; celebrities such as actress and designer Sadie Frost, singer Boy George and Hollywood actor Stanley Tucci have all enjoyed Lee's food via varied & epic fundraising dinners.

INGREDIENTS (SERVES 4):  500G EXTRA-LEAN MINCED BEEF  1 CLOVE GARLIC, PEELED AND CRUSHED  1 LARGE ONION, PEELED AND CHOPPED

 2 CARROTS, WASHED, TRIMMED AND DICED  2TBSP PLAIN FLOUR  500ML BEEF STOCK

 1TBSP WORCESTERSHIRE SAUCE  1TBSP TOMATO PUREE  1TBSP BROWN SAUCE  ½ CINNAMON STICK  1 STAR ANISE

 SALT AND FRESHLY GROUND BLACK PEPPER FOR THE MASH:

 575G POTATOES, PEELED AND CUT INTO CHUNKS  1TBSP (HEAPED) BUTTER  SPLASH OF MILK

Winter; chilly walks, dark nights, open fires, condensation ladened pub windows with flickering shadows on the inside; one pot foods, casseroles, stews, coq au vin and of course our very own and very British cottage pie. Historically made from left overs, this is very much the centrepiece of our table at least once a week and is always a crowd please - especially when served with baked beans - Enjoy!

METHOD

1. Heat a large non-stick frying pan and add the mince. Fry for 6mins, stirring occasionally, until browned. Add the garlic, onion and carrots and cook for a further 2mins. Stir in the flour and add the cinnamon and start asise and cook for 1min.

2. Add the stock to the pan, stirring, then add the Worcestershire sauce and tomato puree. Season with black pepper.

Bring to the boil and simmer for 10-15mins, removing the lid for the final 5mins.

3. Meanwhile, cook the potatoes in a large pan of lightly salted water for 15mins or until both are tender. Drain well then mash with the low-fat spread or butter. Season with black pepper. Cover and set to one side.

4. Spoon the mince into a large shallow dish, then top with the potato mash, smoothing the surface. Place under a preheated grill for 4-5mins or until the top is golden brown. Serve hot with steamed vegetables.

73

[travel ]

CONFESSIONS OF A GLASGOW GLUTTON:

A WEEKEND OF BIG FLAVOURS IN THE CLYDE’S CULINARY CAPITAL

EKL Travel editor Jaillan Yehia goes to Glasgow for 48 hours. It’s no exaggeration to say that all she does during that time is eat.

Judging by the reactions of people who hear about my Glasgow foodie weekend, it seems that generally speaking, expectations for haute cuisine North of the border are not actually very haute amongst us southerners.

Perhaps a clichéd image of Glasgow’s own greasy Rab C. Nesbitt eating a deep-fried mars bar has congealed our brains, preventing new ideas about the culinary culture of Scotland’s port city from penetrating. But penetrate they must, because the food scene on the Clyde is causing a bit of a media stir.

Scotland’s most populous metropolis is now home to plenty of powerful flavours and atmospheric eateries, which are well worth boarding a plane or train to experience.

You might want to leave the car at home though because the pub scene here is stronger than ever. This is still Scotland.

74

The ongoing food revolution that sees us roll our eyes at memories of parmesan in a cardboard shaker and be bewildered by an age before kale chips and quinoa has more than marched on Glasgow and has conquered this city.

And if you let it, Glasgow will conquer your taste buds too, no matter how adventurous they are.

In case you need more evidence may I present exhibit A, the taxi driver.

I tell my Glaswegian black cab driver that I’m here on a culinary quest as we drive through the long strip of fashionable food options that is Finnieston. It has been called the hippest place in Britain no less.

The variety of eating options seem to have expanded beyond all recognition since my previous visit I tell the driver, who is so convivial that I consider staying in the cab all evening.

I’m told in turn, in that signature

trustworthy Scots dialect used by call centres to disarm us, about his wife’s newfound enthusiasm for Japanese food.

It is as if the tourist board has set out to prove that the armies of foreign flavours have liberated everyone in Glasgow, not only the commanders of some snobby culinary elite.

TV chef Guy Fieri could call this place Flavour Town and not be ridiculed.

My own 48 hours in Glasgow is a worldly whirlwind of Vietnamese soup, Scottish Beef, Canadian donuts, Italian coffee and cannoli, Japanese sushi, French champagne – and of course plenty of Scottish fayre from noteworthy modern plates to classic haggis, neeps and tatties. None of it especially pricey, but all packing a punch in the taste department.

This is what I ate while in Glasgow and what I wish I had more room for.

[travel ] Day 1: Arrival, Shopping & Street Food Coffee and Donuts at Tim Hortons First stop on my cordon bleu quest in Glasgow will divide you into distinct camps in a manner not seen since Brexit.

In fact the cup of coffee and box of mini-donuts will either mean everything to you or mean nothing to you – or my visit may leave you totally aghast.

If you’re Canadian or you’ve been to Canada you’ll see that I’m able to enjoy legendary Tim Hortons sugary treats in Scotland after Canada’s favourite coffee chain, affectionately known as Timmies, opened their inaugural UK branch in Glasgow.

You may think ‘so what?’, but let’s just say this naughty but nice treat isn’t a coffee connoisseur’s hang out, but you can’t go wrong with a Timbit in my book. Timmy Ho’s is cheap, it’s cheerful and it gets the job done. timhortons.co.uk Dinner at Ramen Dayo On my first afternoon in Glasgow I realise I haven’t packed properly. Soon I’m stumbling out of Primark with two large bags of last minute additions, mainly leggings and elasticated trousers suitable for the face-stuffing I have planned. I end up ravenous in a way that only bargain shopping can bring about.

As if by magic the restaurant opposite the Primark side door (which churns you out after closing time) is a ramen place, which as luck would have it, is precisely what I want to eat.

It’s got a cute street food stand inside as one of the tables and I’m reliably informed by the waiter that the bricks and mortar location is new and all the noodles used to be served exclusively from this wooden cart.

I’m also informed in a rather selfless way by the same waiter that good Korean food can be found in Glasgow at a spot called Kimchi Cult.

Glaswegians are nice, helpful and friendly like that. ramendayo.com kimchicult.com 75

[travel ] The tour combines an education in Glasgow’s food scene with the city’s history, both tied to the people who came here. Jewish immigrants opened bakeries, Italians opened restaurants and ice cream parlours – the latter of which were sinful dens of iniquity in the eyes of the Presbyterian church.

The Clyde’s position and port meant more jobs here than Edinburgh could offer, leading to higher immigration, which equals a wider range of international foods for us to enjoy today. eatwalkglasgow.co.uk Dinner at The Gannet

Day 2: Studying Glasgow’s Edible Past & Present Breakfast at Point A Hotel I’m staying at a newly opened concept hotel on Bath Street. The hotel has a snazzy, bright and reassuring website promising you everything you need from a city hotel – cleanliness, big flat screen TV, comfy bed, power shower, decent breakfast, somewhere to charge your electronics, and a central location, but without all the things you don’t need, and is priced accordingly.

Point A turns out to be absolutely everything it promises, and more. It’s for young, trendy folk and it knows just what they (or should I say we) are looking for. I’m especially impressed by the healthy options at breakfast and the simplicity and ease of staying here. Plus, the staff are all, yes you guessed it, very, very friendly. pointahotels.com Lunch with Eat, Walk Glasgow Food Tour I’m always excited about foodie walking tours so I’m over the moon when the weather turns out to be sunny with bright blue skies - a gift when photographing Glasgow’s Victorian architecture as we zigzag through the compact city centre.

The tasty trip through Glasgow's food scene sees us make our way to five 76

different - and I mean very different food tastings, enjoying tipples along the way.

I’m genuinely enthralled by Alston Bar & Beef a glamorous, tiled speakeasy hiding underneath Glasgow’s Central station. The oysters and champagne which follow at Hutchesons City Grill is an opulent sojourn, and the serving of haggis and whisky at the cosy, historic Babbity Bowster feels authentic and warming.

We sample some cheese made by Blur in an old church (well by Alex James anyway) and make an unscheduled stop at a giant mushroom which can’t be eaten but makes for a fabulous photo.

Gannets are not just Scotland's biggest seabirds, the word gannet is an affectionate slang term for a greedy and constant eater who likes to munch on everything in sight - so this restaurant is perfect for me, as is the meal.

Dinner is a superior and artful affair at one of the city's most respected locations, synonymous with seasonal local Scottish produce - from halibut to deer.

The stand out dish turns out to be the Scotch egg encased in black pudding. It sounds quite heavy but remarkably it isn’t overpowering at all.

The remoulade was subtle, the crust was light, and the soft duck egg with a huge deep orange yolk was about as far away from school dinners and packaged snacks as you can imagine, making it

[travel ]

easy to see why this starter has taken up permanent residence on the specials board.

My salad is arranged with tweezers which I must admit is the kind of thing which sometimes gets my goat, but it’s the prettiest thing I’ve eaten all year, incredibly fresh and uplifting, and served with a lovely aerated pea mousse.

The Gannet brings clever modern dining to the masses with a new informal menu aimed at people who want a quick - yet quirky - bite.

It almost goes without saying by now that the service is exceptionally smiley and welcoming. thegannetgla.com Day 3: Asian Flavours and Finding The Big Yin Breakfast at Laborotorio Espresso I’ve had ‘bad’ coffee at Tim Hortons already so I decide to track down the ‘best’ coffee in Glasgow, and of course that means finding somewhere Italian.

My research turns up Laborotorio Espresso which is a 2-minute walk from the hotel and has cannoli which are so authentic that your eyes close involuntarily as you crunch down on those flaky first bites.

I’ve noticed Asian tastes are well-catered for in Glasgow and I’m craving things I can never get enough of, namely Vietnamese pho and Japanese sushi.

I tuck into both, punctuated by a sightseeing trip around town on the open top bus and a self-guided tour of the Billy Connolly Murals. citysightseeingglasgow.co.uk Lunch at Non Viet I try Non Viet for their bargain lunch special, which I’d eat happily multiple times a week if I worked anywhere near the unglamorous end of Sauchiehall Street.

I then walk off some of the previous days’ indulgence in readiness for a final sushi supper at Central Sushi before boarding my train home. My walk is inspired by finding all 3 of the Billy Connolly murals dotted around Glasgow.

In summer 2017 giant wall art started appearing in the comedian’s honour, created by artists Jack Vettriano, John Byrne and Rachel Maclean, to celebrate the 75th birthday of Glasgow’s most iconic son.

Glasgow’s art scene already precedes it – Kelingrove Art Gallery, Zaha Hadid’s Riverside Museum, GoMA Gallery of Modern Art and the Charles Rennie Macintosh legacy have brought art lovers to Glasgow for decades but now you don’t need to step foot indoors to see world class art.

Witty, anti-establishment, enlightened, disarming and well-travelled, Billy is the city’s favourite comedic son and really embodies the tourist board’s slogan that People Make Glasgow. If they need to change tack anytime soon, Food Makes Glasgow would be a terrific alternative.

nonviet.co.uk centralsushi.co.uk

5 Places To Find More Good Food In Glasgow

The Crabshakk - Superior Seafood. crabshakk.com Mellis Cheese Shop - Nationwide mecca for dairy fans. mellischeese.net Ox & Finch – Relaxed, contemporary dining. oxandfinch.com River Hill Café - Trendy café serving signature Dear Green coffee. riverhillcafe.com Byres Road – West End street brimming with food options For more info see peoplemakeglasgow.com 77

[fashion ]

M&S Collection Shirt £29.50,

M&S Collection Jumper £29.50, M&S Collection Coat £99,

Limited Edition Jeans £25.

Available from Marks and Spencer in St George's Street, Canterbury.

78

[fashion ]

Dhalia military coat ÂŁ129.

Available from Monsoon in

Whitefriars Street, Canterbury.

79

[fashion ]

Harrington jacket £50; polo shirt £26; chinos £22.

Available from Next in Whitefriars Square, Canterbury.

80

[fashion ]

Available from Marks and Spencer in St George's Street, Canterbury.

81

[fashion ]

Checked top, £25;

pinstripe tapered trousers, £32; pointed slingbacks, £36.

Available from Next in

Whitefriars Square, Canterbury.

82

[fashion ]

Caro Shimmer full length dress, ÂŁ130.

Available from Phase Eight in the Marlowe Arcade, Canterbury.

83

[fashion ]

Yarrow Merino funnel top, £55; Rigid Gin slim jeans, £55;

casual worker boots, £110.

Available from White Stuff in

Whitefriars Street, Canterbury.

84

[fashion ]

Colliford parka, £110;

Hinterland jumper, £49.95;

Oak Peached slim trousers, £55; Heather hand knit hat, £25, Ryder pull on boots, £130.

Available from White Stuff in

Whitefriars Street, Canterbury.

85

[fashion ]

Oversized check coat, £159;

Oversized cable knit sweater, £39.99; satin high heel sandals, £29.99.

Available from Zara in Whitefriars Street, Canterbury.

86

[fashion [title ]

Twist knit sweater, ÂŁ39.99.

Available from Zara in

Whitefriars Street, Canterbury.

87

[health and beauty ]

GLAMOROUS PARTY HAIR

IN 4 EASY STEPS

BY NICK ROSE OF THE CHAIR, CANTERBURY

Now’s the time of year for parties and celebrations. With hectic schedules and little time for making our hair look amazing, I have created a simple, yet elegant style that can be easily be created at home.

Making sure your hair is in the best condition it can be plays a major part in hairstyling. I like to recommend Kerastase haircare products to all of my clients. Here at The Chair we offer a wide range of treatments and I would recommend coming into the salon and having a chat to see how we can get your hair into tip top shape.

Step 1 Prep the hair Prep the hair with Kerastase Nectar Thermique and L’incroyable to protect against heat and hold the curls, then dry the hair away from the face.

Step 2 divide, section and curl

Step 3 spray, set and hold

Step 4 Tease, tame and go

Once dry, take the hair and divide into sections that will manageable for you and start curling with your 26 mm GHD curling tong. with each section you curl, wind the hair around whilst holding the tong horizontally

Once you have curled each section, spray with Kerastase Laque Couture, sleek one side back and place a clip to hold in place.

Tease the curls with a Mason Pearson brush and spray with Kerastase VIP volume spray.

Any hair issues? Email Me Nick at appointments@the-chair.co.uk Hair - @Nickrosehair Photographer - @Gracejelliott MUA - @Theboroughbeauty The Chair’s Senior stylist Nick Rose has been in the industry for 6 years and has extensive knowledge in all aspects of hair. Nick started his career with an apprenticeship at Sassoon’s, finishing his training at The Chair after moving to Canterbury.

Nick’s skills enabled him to progress to the backstage finals at the prestigious L’Oreal Colour Trophy. In 2016 Nick temporarily relocated to an exclusive Mayfair salon to undergo further intense training in designer cutting and creative colouring. Now being back at The Chair Nick is using his skills to create looks tailored to his clients’ specific needs to give them the beautiful hair they deserve.

89

[title ]

Scholarships for Year 7, 9 and 12 Apply now for entry in September 2018

An outstanding co-educational school for 3 - 18 year olds Come and visit us

01227 763 231

90

[education ]

STUDENTS FROM KENT COLLEGE

REACH UK-WIDE SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING FINAL

A group of students from Kent College have been selected to compete at the UK finals of a science and engineering competition after their exciting project caught the eye of judges. The six-strong team of 17-19-year-old pupils from the school will now take their place in next year’s The Big Bang UK Young Scientists & Engineers Competition.

The team has been announced as one of the winners of the regional heats at The Big Bang Fair South East, with the project from the group entitled ‘Low-Cost Robotic Arm’. The team have worked and designed a low-cost robotic arm which could be available to the general public worldwide. BAE systems asked the group of engineering students to create this as they produce technology to aid the armed forces as they have a keen interest in helping veterans who need prosthetic limbs.

Beth Elgood, Director of Communications, EngineeringUK said, “The team from Kent College really impressed the judges with their project and we’re excited to see how they do at the finals at The Fair. Going into its tenth year in 2018, The Big Bang Fair continues to be a great source of

STEM inspiration for young people, representing an amazing opportunity for young visitors, their teachers and parents to get hands-on with a wide range of activities, workshops and shows, and engage in meaningful career conversations with professionals, all designed to bring classroom learning to life and inspire the next generation.”

The students will be invited to attend the competition finals, which are taking place at The Big Bang Fair at Birmingham’s NEC in March 2018.

Here, they will vie for top prizes including the coveted title of UK Young Engineer and GSK UK Young Scientist of the Year.

Following an invite from Stephen Metcalfe MP on behalf of The Parliamentary and Scientific Committee with EngineeringUK, the team from

Kent College attended the Houses of Parliament on 7th November to showcase their project at “The Big Bang @ Parliament”, in celebration of Tomorrow’s Engineers Week.

During the visit the team discussed their project with many prominent guests from industry and education as well as MPs, including local MP, Rosie Duffield.

The team hope the robotic arm could be evolved to help those around the world who would be unable to access the expensive models currently available.

To progress this aim, the team contacted the charity “Opening your heart to Bhutan” who endorsed the project, recognising that “the key advantages of the design are its simplicity, lightness and cost, all of which are critically important elements for those young people our charity aims to help”

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[education ]

JUNIOR KING'S SCHOOL Junior King’s was founded in 1879 as the Preparatory school to The King’s School, Canterbury. In 1929 the School expanded to the stunning eighty acre countryside location at Milner Court, Sturry. The 16th century Manor House and Tithe Barn are augmented by superb educational, boarding, extra-curricular and sporting facilities including the addition of the Michael and Vibeke Herbert Music School which opened in early 2016.

Educating boys and girls between the ages of 3 & 13 the Nursery, PrePrep and Prep departments provide a very happy, caring and nurturing environment for pupils.

The Nursery and Pre-Prep years When you arrive at Junior King’s PrePrep, you will instantly sense the warm and welcoming atmosphere and you will know that you are in a special place.

A place of cooperation, collaboration and achievement – be it in the bright and stimulating classrooms, outdoors in the extensive grounds of taking part in Forest School.

The Pre-Prep educates the youngest members of the Junior King’s family.

The aim is to bring out the very best in each child before handing them on to the Prep School when they are seven years old.

The Nursery, set in a vibrant, purposebuilt ‘Little Barn’, caters for children through a rich variety of play and 92

learning activities, using a thematic approach linked to the interests and development of the children. Once a week the children visit ‘Forest Park’, where having fun and getting muddy go hand in hand with learning about the natural environment.

We are open 36 weeks of the year, termtime only and offer a weekly maximum of 15 hours Free Early Education Entitlement vouchers to children of 3 to 4 years of age who attend our Nursery. We offer a morning or full day placement and vouchers may be claimed to a maximum of 3 hours per morning session that your child attends.

The Reception year builds on the excellent experiences that children are introduced to during their time in the Nursery. Teaching and learning at this level is delivered through a wide range of topics planned to stimulate and excite young developing minds. At the very core of learning is a ‘can do’ approach where children are encouraged to think creatively and independently.

Children in Years 1 & 2 learn through a topic based approach which encompasses the majority of subjects.

Lessons are differentiated to ensure all children can be suitably supported or challenged according to their individual needs on a daily basis. Specialist teachers take the children for PE, Dance, French and Music throughout the week.

The Pre-Prep is an accredited Forest School with a fenced in woodland

site on school grounds (Forest Park) supported by a leader trained to Level 3 and other practitioners to Level 2.

Children have the opportunity to play securely with freedom to explore at will. The aim is to provide experiential education and interaction with the natural environment which is proven to promote health, learning and emotional well-being. We firmly believe that the Pre-Prep is both traditional and innovative, industrious and fun.

Junior King’s Forest School Open Morning is on Saturday 17th March 2018.

The next Open Morning is on Saturday 19th May 2018 starting at 10.00am To register interest or for more information please contact: registrar@junior-kings.co.uk 01227 714000

CO-EDUCATIONAL | 3-13 YEARS | DAY & BOARDING

Rated ‘Excellent’ in all areas Independent Schools Inspectorate, 2017

OPEN DAYS 2018 Saturday 19th May Saturday 13th October

www.junior-kings.co.uk

OPEN DAYS 2018 13+ Entry: Saturday 10th March Saturday 16th June Saturday 6th October

Sixth Form Entry: Saturday 23rd June Saturday 22nd September

CO-EDUCATIONAL | 13-18 YEARS | DAY & BOARDING

www.king-school.co.uk

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[education ]

Be all you can be St Ed’s is a school where every pupil is connected by a love of learning, the pursuit of possibility and the challenge of being the very best they can be.

01227 475601 | www.stedmunds.org.uk

More than a school

Spring Grove School achieves a UK and Kent first Mr Bill Jones, Spring Grove School’s Headmaster said;

“It is an honour and a privilege for us to have been recognised in this way and my sincere thanks must go firstly to our outstanding Forest School team and secondly to the FSA for their recognition and support.”

Spring Grove School in Wye (Kent) achieved two ‘firsts’ last week after being recognised as the first independent school in the UK, as well as the first setting of any type in Kent to be approved by the Forest School Association (FSA) as a recognised Forest School Provider.

This outstanding recognition comes following a rigorous review of Spring Grove School’s Forest School provision and programmes in line with the FSA’s six core principles of Forest School.

To date only 9 other schools and 6 dedicated providers in the UK have 94

attained this high standard.

The Forest School approach allows children to foster their problem-solving and cooperation skills, as well as their confidence and self-esteem, and this is definitely being witnessed at Spring Grove School where this alternative type of learning has tied in perfectly with their unique and creative educational approach and ethos.Their Forest School sessions have equipped the children, with not only an appreciation for the outdoors, but also a host of teamwork, wellbeing and practical skills which can be utilised both inside and outside of the classroom.

“I have personally witnessed our children develop and mature as a result of our Forest School programme and through following its core principles.

The children love it and simply can’t get enough!”

Mr Paul Curnow, Spring Grove School’s Forest School Leader added; “Gaining FSA accreditation for Spring Grove School has added real credibility to our expanding Forest School programme and has provided national recognition for the efforts of our children, staff and parents who have made it all possible.”

“We can now get back into the woods to do what we love best.”

[education ]

ADD TO YOUR PRIMARY SCHOOL CHOICES! Applications are currently open for children due to start primary or junior school in Reception or Year 3 in September 2018.

Find out why more and more local families are turning to private education and choosing St Lawrence College Junior School in Ramsgate where pupils enjoy all the advantages of a small, friendly, family-oriented environment with the added extra of acres of outdoor space and unbeatable facilities.

Head of the Junior School, Ellen Rowe, says: “Children are happiest when their school work excites them, when they are recognised for their achievements and supported if needed, when they feel safe, and when they have time to play.

At St Lawrence College Junior School we take great care to support each child, nurturing them to reach their potential in all aspects of school life.

With spacious grounds, wonderful resources and a dedicated staff team we leave no stone unturned to find out what motivates your child, offering them an exceptional range of lessons and activities, including an ‘outdoor adventures’ curriculum.

The Junior School, like the rest of St Lawrence College, is currently thriving, with limited availability in some year groups. If you are considering St Lawrence College for your child, the advice is to register sooner rather than later to avoid disappointment!

We have high expectations and encourage children to persevere to gain success; we are rewarded with children achieving great things academically, in sports and in the arts.We prepare each child for academic entrance to our Senior School or for the Kent Test, ensuring the very best outcome for your child.”

To find out more, request a prospectus and/or book a visit, contact the Junior School Registrar, Lindsey Harris, on 01843 572912 or at jsadmissions@ slcuk.com.

www.slcuk.com

Co-educational, day & boarding school for 3-18 years in South East England

Looking for a School for September 2018?

Add to your Primary School Choices - call today to book a tour

Reception and Year 3 places currently available High academic standards for each individual child Small class sizes (average of 15 pupils per class) ‘Outdoor Adventures’ curriculum Extended day for working parents Spacious modern and traditional facilities Affordable, all-inclusive fees and payment options

T: 01843 572912 E: jsadmissions@slcuk.com College Road, Ramsgate, Kent CT11 7AE

www.slcuk.com

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[what's occurring ]

?

occurring

november - december

this Christmas

Saturday 25th November – Monday 1st January 2018

Saturday 25th November Sunday 24 December

White Cliffs Christmas Event @ Dover's historic Cruise Terminal One

Whitefriars Christmas Market @ Whitefriars Shopping Centre Always one of Kent’s best Christmas markets, this year’s Whitefriars Christmas Market in Canterbury will feature dozens of colourful cabins selling seasonal food and drink, gifts and decorations with many of them handmade by local artisans.

Opening hours: 10am to 6pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm on Saturday and 10am to 5pm Sunday, with some late nights close to Christmas.

Friday 1st December – Monday 25th December For the second year running Father Christmas and his friendly elves will be making a welcome return on a sleigh pulled by real reindeer. Taking up residence in his grotto, the grand old man of Christmas will once again greet children and hand out presents. His special post box will also be available for everyone’s festive wish lists. Adding to the seasonal mood, will be last year’s favourite, the hugely popular undercover real ice-rink – only this time it will be bigger and better. Skaters can again enjoy the atmosphere and excitement of gliding on 400m² of real ice without the worry of inclement weather. The Traditional English Christmas Market will be open once more, offering a wide range of Christmas gift ideas, complemented by live music, a variety of children’s rides, and concessions serving tasty food and beverages.

For booking the ice-rink and more general information go to www.doverport.co.uk

Saturday 25th November – Sunday 24th December Santa Specials @ Romney, Hythe, & Dymchurch Railway Enjoy some festive fun, meet Santa and his Elves, indulge in some festive foods, there'll even be a gift. Check out the website for details of

Canterbury Cathedral Lodge Christmas Parties Within the inspirational grounds of Canterbury Cathedral, the Cathedral Lodge offers superb first class banqueting facilities and is in the ideal location to celebrate Christmas.

From only £23.95 per person, the Lodge’s great value Christmas lunches and Christmas party nights in Canterbury are perfect for large or small groups and a great way to celebrate with your family, friends or colleagues.

For shared party nights, the Auditorium Foyer Bar opens for drinks from 6.30pm, with seating for dinner at 7.15 pm.

Includes a resident DJ playing all your favourite hits through to carriages at 11.00pm Price: From £23.95pp Tel: + 44 (0) 1227 865350 or email: stay@ canterburycathedrallodge.org

Friday 1st – Sunday 24th December The Elf Express & Magical Elf Forest @ Quex Park, Birchington All aboard the Elf Express to Elf Tower! Climb the winding staircase to meet Santa for a Christmas story and present & then venture though the Magical Elf Forest where you will be greeted by 3 very cheerful elves.

Prices vary depending on activity chosen

Each elf will be waiting with a sweet treat or two for you to take away- but of course, that is only if you have been good this year!! This is set to be the best Christmas experience yet, so don’t miss it… even the adults get treats! Visitors will also gain access to the Festive Field of Fun.

For more info call 01797 362353 or visit www.rhdr.org.uk

Prices: From £10 available from www.quexactivitycentre.com

the different special’s available

Check website for times/availability 96

[east kent business ]

CLIVE STEVENS A HEAD FOR NUMBERS AND A HEART IN EAST KENT

Clive Stevens, chairman of accountants, business and financial advisers Kreston Reeves, was appointed this summer a Deputy Lieutenant of Kent.

In a role that dates back to Tudor England, the deputy lieutenants of Kent were originally responsible for the defence of the county and for local order. Today, the non-political and unpaid role includes accompanying Royalty and Heads of State during official visits to the county and advising community organisations on gaining recognition in the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service scheme.

East Kent Lifestyle caught up with long-time Margate resident Clive and discovered that while he might have a head for numbers, his heart remains in his much-loved East Kent.

“I joined Kreston Reeves, then Reeves & Neylan, in 1974 as a trainee accountant,” says Clive. “At the time, it was a small accountancy practice with a handful of offices across the southeastern corner of Kent with its clients firmly focused on the rural economy.

I was lucky enough to join at a time of change and ambition for the firm and the county and eventually became Managing Partner at the relatively young age of 39.”

Today, Kreston Reeves is the UK’s 25th largest accountancy practice with 10 offices across London and the South East. Growth has come from two recent mergers and increasingly from international businesses.

“We are seen by many of our clients as a local firm, and that remains important,” says Clive. “But increasingly, our clients whether they be businesses or wealthy individuals, need a firm of advisers with an international reach. Our involvement with Kreston International in important.”

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In 2014, Clive was appointed Chairman of Kreston Reeves, with the day-to-day management of the firm led by senior partner Andrew Griggs and managing partner Nigel Fright. The firm is in good hands, growing by some six per cent a year.

Yet for all Clive’s work in building one of the country’s largest accountancy firms, it is his dedication to the county and to East Kent in that truly stands out.

Clive sits on the on the Board of the inward investment agency, Locate in Kent, that has helped more than 1,000 businesses from all over the world to make the county home creating almost 66,000 jobs.

In his role as Chairman of the trustees of the Turner Contemporary Gallery in Margate, Clive hosts visits from royalty, global politicians, dignitaries and artists championing both the arts and his home

county, Kent, on an international stage.

“The Turner Contemporary Gallery is one of the jewels of East Kent,” says Clive. “It is a fantastic and worldclass gallery that is responsible for considerable regeneration of the Margate and East Kent. It is something the entire county should be proud of.”

He is also a Kent Ambassador, one of 90 hand-picked people across the county that act as mentors to help support and promote the county at home and overseas. And to top it all, in July he was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant of Kent.

“I have been lucky enough to have a career that has taken me around the world and allowed me to work alongside some of the brightest and most successful people in the UK,” says Clive, “but it is Margate that is my home. It is truly a special corner of the county.”

[title ]

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