Life Magazines (Kent editions) June 2020

Spring/Summer 2020 Collection

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Family Law

Employment Law

Conveyancing

Defence

Wills

Disputes

“After sorting my dispute at work, I’m looking forward to getting on with my life.”

If you are involved in a dispute at work, don’t worry, we’re here to help and support you, so that your problem isn’t a problem any more.

For all life’s legal needs and with offices in London and throughout the UK.

0330 107 2510 slatergordon.co.uk

Personal Injury

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EDITOR Faye Manning ••••• EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Katie Miller ••••• SUB EDITOR Ben Jones ••••• FASHION EDITOR Lewis Casserley ••••• DESIGN & PRODUCTION ProperGander Design ••••• BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGERS Tim Lees, Lisa Westerman ••••• SALES Vanessa Lane, Anita Hill ••••• ACCOUNTS Kathy Manning, Andree Georgiou ••••• DIRECTORS Rory Smith, Patrick Smith

RESIN BOUND THE MOST VERSATILE SURFACE

GIVE YOUR PROPERTY A FRESH LOOK

T H O M A S D U N T O N SOLICITORS ESTABLISHED 1978

No one wants to be treated unfairly at work The law is very clear on discrimination in the workplace If you feel that your employer has treated you unjustly, call our employment team on 0800 358 2757

Still here to help in these uncertain times

All projects of any size welcome Find our work at the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew and look us up on Check a Trade, Facebook and Twitter

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CONTENTS LOVE LOCAL

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

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HOUSE & GARDEN

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We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month

Chislehurst Office: Suite 5, Langford House, 7-7a High Street, Chislehurst, Kent, BR7 5AB Beckenham Office: 48 High Street, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 1AY

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Common myths about divorce!

Deciding whether your marriage has come to an end is one of the most difficult decisions you may ever have to make. If you’re contemplating a divorce it’s important to seek advice from a family lawyer as there are numerous myths surrounding family law, which can be misleading.

non-owning spouse’s interest in the property.

We explain five of the most common divorce myths:

3. My Pension will not be taken into account

1. Adultery has an impact on the division of assets The only ground for divorce in England and Wales is that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. Adultery is one of the facts that can be used to establish this. However, adultery will not have an effect on the division of the matrimonial assets.

2. A spouse has no rights to the former matrimonial home if they’re not the legal owner This is simply not the case. If you own the former matrimonial home, your spouse does have a right to occupy the property.

The non-owning spouse is likely to register their home rights with the Land Registry. This ensures third parties, such as mortgage lenders or potential buyers, are notified of the

Whilst home rights don’t give a non-owning spouse a benenficial interest in the former matrimonial home, it’s likely to be considered as a matrimonial asset for the purposes of financial division.

This depends on the particular facts of the case. A pension can be a significant asset of a marriage. A number of factors will be taken into account when considering whether your spouse is entitled to a share of your pension and if so, the extent of that share. The factors include the length of the marriage, any period of cohabitation prior to marriage and any pension provision held by your spouse.

house the children. The Court will take into account a number of factors when deciding how the assets of the marriage should be divided including the financial resources and financial needs of both spouses.

5. All financial ties between spouses are cut once the Decree Absolute is pronounced This isn’t necessarily the case.

The decree absolute legally ends your marriage, but unless you have a Court approved financial order, financial claims against former spouses remain open. It’s important to ensure that a financial settlement is reached and converted into a Court approved financial order, to prevent any future claims against income or assets that are obtained after the decree absolute.

4. The Court will award nothing to the non-resident parent

Offices in London and throughout the UK.

When dealing with financial remedy proceedings the first consideration of the Court is the welfare of any dependant children. However, it doesn’t automatically follow that a resident parent will be entitled to all of the assets of the marriage. The resident parent will usually need a property to

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New Faces join London Art Week for Summer 2020 Digital Event 3-10 July 2020

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he innovative digital presentation of London Art Week Summer 2020, welcomes numerous new faces alongside familiar participants that have supported the event for many years.

In response to the global Covid-19 situation, London Art Week has created a new online space for dealers to work together, preserving the collegiate nature of the event which embraces auction houses and which is supported by museum partners and art world sponsors.

Among new London-based dealers taking part in London Art Week this summer is Stuart Lochhead Sculpture, Osborne Samuel, Panter & Hall, Benjamin Proust Fine Art, and Offer Waterman. Sladmore Gallery and Philip Mould & Company return after a few years. Works for sale span 5000 years of art, from ancient Egypt to Modern British, with an emphasis on Old and Modern Masters, offered by the world’s most respected fine art galleries.

Some 50 exhibitors have been confirmed to date. International newcomers include Galerie Canesso and Jacques Leegenhoek from Paris, Nicolás Cortés Gallery of Madrid, Daxer & Marschall and Arnoldi-Livie. of Munich, and, from Italy, dealers such as Walter Padovani of Milan with sculpture, Antichita Alberto di Castro of Rome with works of art, Bottegantica of Bologna with Italian art and Enrico Ceci Cornici Antiche

of Modena with fine antique frames.

Dealer pages on the London Art Week website will house up to 25 works per gallery, and there is provision in LAW DIGITAL for supporting material such as videos, film clips, essays and exhibition catalogues. At the time of writing, it is hoped some of the London-based dealers may be able to open their galleries too. A comprehensive digital catalogue will accompany London Art Week Summer 2020.

A major feature is a new series of mixed, curated Viewing Rooms where works from a cross-section of participants will be shown side by side, a new way for dealers to be discovered by a world-wide audience.

THE DETAILS The Viewing Rooms go live from 3-10 July, with an invitation-only Private View on 2 July.

Further news and developments for London Art Week Summer 2020 will be announced soon Join the London Art Week community: register at www.londonartweek.co.uk to receive communications about Summer 2020.

images from: trinity Fine art, Klaas Muller, tomasso brothers Fine art and stephen ongpin Fine art

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Monaco Yacht Show 2020 A superyacht industry support show. september 23 – 26, 2020, Port hercule, Monaco

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he Principality of Monaco and Informa have announced a secure, not-for-profit event in 2020 They have confirmed they are working together to deliver an intimate, not-for-profit Monaco Yacht Show in Port Hercule in September 2020, with full details to be announced in the coming weeks.

The proposed event will employ the highest standards of hygiene and cleanliness and be dedicated to supporting the speedy recovery of the industry post COVID-19, providing an invaluable platform for designers, brokers, shipyards and other key players within the yachting industry to connect with their customers and share ideas in a safe environment.

Return & Recovery post the COVID-19 Pandemic Like most industries, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a marked impact on the international yachting community, with many businesses temporarily closed and staff furloughed, and the usual annual cycle of industry activity severely disrupted.

As countries and locations around the world gradually relax lockdown restrictions and ease control measures, it is imperative that the superyacht community is supported in every way possible to help the industry return and recover safely and quickly.

The 30th Monaco Yacht Show in September 2020 With this in mind, The Monaco Yacht Show has been working closely with the Principality of Monaco to determine how best to support the industry in 2020.

This year’s Monaco Yacht Show is scheduled from 23 to 26 September. With control measures steadily being relaxed in Monaco, around Europe and internationally, on current course and speed, this should allow for a carefully staged event to still take place this year.

Therefore, it is our intention to retain these dates for the 2020 Monaco Yacht Show and work with

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suppliers and local authorities over the coming weeks to confirm full details of the event.

In the spirit of the history and position of the event within the superyacht industry, the 30th Monaco Yacht Show will be run on a not-for-profit basis, recognizing the challenges facing everyone post the COVID-19 pandemic and, therefore, providing direct support to all attendees and exhibitors from across the market.

Whilst the intimate nature of the 2020 event will prioritize the safety of participants, both Informa and the Monaco Principality are committed to ensuring the quality of the event and show experience is maintained for everyone.

Charlie McCurdy, Chief Executive, Informa Markets (organiser of the Monaco Yacht Show) said, “The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on all industries, not least the international yachting community. As we move to the other side of the pandemic, all parts of the industry need to work collaboratively to ensure a speedy return and recovery. We are playing our part by hosting a notfor-profit Monaco Yacht Show in 2020, providing an opportunity for the community to come together, share ideas, meet with customers and start to rebuild positive momentum.” www.monacoyachtshow.com

“The Monaco Yacht Show has been working closely with the Principality of Monaco to determine how best to support the industry in 2020”

Discover the Alternative Leverets combines Barristers and Solicitors to provide representation and advocacy in all forms of litigation and disputes. Situated in Sevenoaks, Leverets’ lawyers offer a streamlined and costeffective service to businesses, individuals, employers and other legal professionals.

Contact us to discuss how Leverets can meet the challenges of your disputes, and help you to resolve them through our representation, advocacy and mediation service, freeing you and your business from stress, distraction and expense.

Our AreAS Of expertiSe • Civil fraud • Commercial & property Disputes • Criminal Defence (Appeals) • Disciplinary & regulatory, including Director’s Disqualification

• employment & Shareholders/Directors • insolvency, personal & Company • public inquiries • reputation & Media • Sports Law

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SUMMER COLOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Emmetts Garden like all other National Trust places have remained shut over the enchantment of the Springtime spectacle. A time when the gardens and parks are awash with Tulip, Narcissi, Cherry Blossom and Bluebell. However, there is still plenty more to look forward to when it reopens after lockdown measures allow it.

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elax in the sunshine amongst the Roses, admire the colourful Hydrangeas and discover exotic trees in bloom this summer.

Emmetts Garden sits at one of the highest points in Kent, providing it with some fantastic views. On a sunny day you can sit and see for miles across the weald of Kent. Bough Beech reservoir can be seen in the distance from the bottom of the South Garden, whilst Ide Hill can be spotted over the way from the wildflower meadow.

Undoubtably, one of the biggest highlights is the Italianate rose garden, the only formal part of the garden. With the onset of June comes the flowering of the sweet-scented roses; there’s no better time to see them at Emmetts. Banks of delicate roses create a beautiful border for this tranquil garden, which holds a stunning view over nearby Ide Hill. Amongst all the different types of roses you will find “Rosa Octavia Hill”, named after one of the three, who founded the National Trust 125 years ago.

Another highlight is the wildflower meadow, a brilliant habitat for wildlife and wildflowers.

Hydrangeas also thrive at Emmetts Garden in the summer. Whilst many species of Hydrangea are white, at Emmetts they mostly flower in vivid blue and pink shades that bring an explosion of colour to the pathways.

For a myriad of rainbow hues head to the North Garden which comes into its own in summer. The gardeners replanted this area in 2017 and the result has been well worth the wait. Look for the golden

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Rudbeckia, fiery Amber Lilies and the quirky Lantern tree.

One of the quirkier specimens from the collection is the Wedding Cake Tree, originating from Japan and Korea. This stunning specimen is so named due to the distinct layers that form, giving the tree a tiered shape resembling a wedding cake. Over summer it is covered with creamy white flowers before the leaves turn purple in the autumn.

The garden team at Emmetts Garden is currently in the third year of their five-year restoration project, aiming to restore the garden to a closer representation of Frederic Lubbock’s original design, the garden’s owner in the 19th century. The team has been working with the Plant Conservation Centre, allowing them to preserve and restore more than 60% of the original collection.

Matt Scott, Head Gardener at Emmetts Garden has shared his favourite quote with us: “But now that many beautiful trees and shrubs are coming to us from many countries, the aim of true gardening is, so far from mutilating them, to develop their natural forms” – William Robinson, The English Flower Garden, 1898. Matt says it emulates a lot of what they are trying to achieve with their plant collection at Emmetts Garden.

The team looks forward to sharing all this with you, once the property is able to re-open. As all other National Trust places, they will be using a booking system to manage numbers in order to maintain social distancing.

The team looks forward to sharing all this with you, once the property is able to re-open

THE DETAILS Emmetts Garden Please visit www.nationaltrust.org. uk/emmetts-garden for further information.

Š National Trust 2020. Registered Charity no. 205846. Photography Š National Trust Images / David Sellman

Pre-book your visit to Emmetts Garden Come and visit Emmetts Garden and see what delights it has to offer you this summer. Enjoy the sweet-smelling roses in the Italianate rose garden and witness the stunning views over Ide Hill, or head to the North Garden to discover the rare, exotic Wedding Cake Tree. Look out for the special pink and blue hydrangeas that are dotted all around, too.

Once Emmetts Garden has re-opened, pre-book your visit online or call 0344 249 1895.

nationaltrust.org.uk/emmetts-garden

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CAPTAIN TOM MOORE ON THE SECRET TO LIVING A

LONG AND HAPPY LIFE

Liz connor speaks to the 100-year-old war veteran about how his love for walking and his eternal optimism have kept both his mind and spirit young.

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hen Captain Tom Moore embarked on a personal challenge to complete 100 laps of the garden in his Bedfordshire home before his 100th birthday, he was hoping he might garner enough local support to raise a modest £1,000 for the NHS. What happened next, his daughter Hannah recalls, was ‘unimaginable’.

Clutching his walking frame for support and proudly wearing his WW2 medals, the war veteran’s steely determination to keep lapping his garden, come rain or shine, quickly captured the hearts of well-wishers worldwide.

Donations, tributes and national news interviews poured in. By the time his 100th birthday (marked with a Spitfire flyover and more than 120,000 cards from fans around the globe) came around, Captain Moore’s status as a national hero was cemented.

His JustGiving page has raised an incredible £32 million in donations, while the charity single he released with Michael Ball made him the oldest artist to claim a UK No 1.

“I had no idea it would be that popular,” says 16 JUNE 2020

“As I walk, I often think about the [lyrics to the song] Michael Ball and I released, ‘walk on, walk on, with hope in your heart’. As the kind people kept donating and donating, not just locally, but throughout the world, I kept going. It was the reason why I go on walking and enjoy every step.”

Captain Moore of his fundraising effort. “It was just [an idea] within the family initially - walking up and down for exercise - but then it just grew and grew.”

“We’re just an ordinary family really. We knew we had a lovely story to share, and we shared it with the world willingly,” says Hannah, who initially put together a short press release about her father’s charity walk, which was in tribute to the NHS nurses who cared for him after he fractured his hip two years ago.

“We thought that maybe local radio that would be interested and that it would be great to raise a thousand pounds. The extraordinary journey we’ve gone through the last five or six weeks could never have been imagined.”

Despite being 100, and having battled various health issues over the years, Moore says there was “no real hardship” in reaching his extended goal of 200 laps. In fact, he very much enjoyed the challenge.

“The first lap was the hardest, but after that I just got used to it,” he says, with his trademark good humour.

“As I walk, I often think about the [lyrics to the song] Michael Ball and I released, ‘walk on, walk on, with hope in your heart’. As the kind people kept donating and donating, not just locally, but throughout the world, I kept going. It was the reason why I go on walking and enjoy every step.”

When it comes to living a long and happy life, Moore says it’s all about having the right mindset.

“I think you’ve got to be optimistic; to think that things will get better.”

“I don’t think anyone really thinks about [getting to 100],” he adds. “When I was 50, I never would have imagined that I was half way through my life. Now that I’m 100 though, it doesn’t feel any different from 99. I’m very pleased that I’ve got to this age though and it’s just a case of seeing how much longer I can hang on.”

Staying fit and healthy seemingly comes naturally to him too, as his unflappable zest for life has kept both his mind and body young. “I’ve never been someone that’s sat around. All my life, from being a boy, I’ve always been active and doing things. Before I had trouble with my leg, I spent so much time in the garden. I weigh the same now as I did when I was 21.”

Moore, who was born in 1920 in Keighley, Yorkshire, embarked on an apprenticeship as a Civil Engineer as a young man, but paused his studying at the age of 20, when he was conscripted to fight in World War Two. Joining the 8th Battalion of The Duke of Wellington’s Regiment, the young soldier was stationed in Cornwall, where he helped to defend the coast from the threat of German invasion.

Later, he was enlisted to India, taking a treacherous six week journey by sea, and he also served and fought on the Arakan in Burma, where he battled through jungle to reach the frontline by motorcycle, defending the British colony from the

Japanese.

Did he ever fear for his life while fighting for his country?

“I don’t think so,” he recalls. “When you’re in the army and you’re 20-years-old. you’re not thinking too much about being in danger. It’s part of the adventure of life. I don’t recall ever being frightened. Maybe I should have been! But we survived.

“I look back on my service in the army as a very enjoyable time and I still think about it now. There was so much comradeship between us. If I was capable, I’d do the same thing all over again.”

He continues to add: “I think things have changed considerably for young people. Before World War Two there was a certain degree of poverty and people were finding life very difficult.

At the present time, people are still finding it difficult, but it’s not as hard now as it was then.

We still need to continue this life with hope and think that tomorrow is going to be as good a day as possible. That’s always been my mantra.”

Recently, Moore announced he will publish two books, one of which will be an autobiography, in support of his new charity, the Captain Tom Foundation. The second will be a children’s book.

“I never thought anyone would be interested in my story and I certainly didn’t think it would ever go into print,” he chuckles. “I’m a bit frightened about telling all my secrets!”

He continues: “I’m a very slow writer though, so maybe I need someone [to help] to speed [it] up a bit for me. “ I ask him what he thinks about the growing public petition for him to be awarded a knighthood for his valiant fundraising efforts. He laughs: “I think that’s an excellent idea, but I don’t think there’s the slightest chance that it’s going to happen.

Sir Thomas Moore would sound very good, but don’t hold your breath!”

As for his next goal? “I need to live a little bit longer, so I can read back all of these books I’m writing,” he jokes.

Captain Tom Moore’s autobiography Tomorrow Will Be A Good Day and his children’s picture book are available to pre-order now (Michael Joseph, PRH) JUNE 2020 17

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THE RISE OF PROBATE DISPUTES T

he number of probate disputes in the High Court has been increasing steadily in recent years. Many people assume that when someone makes a will it is final and beneficiaries and family members are stuck with it.

However, more and more people are now beginning to challenge wills.

What are the grounds for challenging a will?

There are many different grounds to challenge a will.

The first step is to establish that you or the person challenging the will has a legal right to do so. Valid reasons to contest a will include: • Lack of due execution – that the will did not comply with the formalities of a valid will.

• Revocation – that the will has been revoked or in some way rendered invalid.

• Lack of testamentary capacity – the person making the will must have had mental capacity when making the will.

• Lack of knowledge and approval – the person making the will must know and approve of its contents.

• Undue influence – the person making the will was coerced into making a will that they did not intend.

What if the will is valid but does not give reasonable financial provision for me?

Even if the will is valid, certain relatives and dependents can challenge the division of the estate by claiming under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 that it does not make “reasonable financial provision” for them.

There are certain statutory criteria that the court must take into account when considering a claim for reasonable financial provision and these are: • The financial needs and resources of the beneficiaries and applicant(s).

• Any obligations and responsibilities the deceased had towards any applicant or beneficiary.

• The size and nature of the estate.

• Any disability (physical or mental) of any applicant or beneficiary.

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• Any other matter, including the conduct of the parties.

Why are probate disputes increasing?

There are several factors which explain why the number of cases is increasing: • Increasing life expectancy means that wills are more often changed later in life, causing concerns of capacity.

• Increasing property prices have considerably increased estate values and with more money “in the pot”; people are more willing to challenge the terms.

• Family structures are increasingly diverse and complex e.g. second spouses and children from first marriages are all likely to expect to benefit from a will.

• DIY wills have also been identified as a factor.

Whilst they are legal and initially a cheap option, drafting errors can cause confusion and result in costly applications to the court to clarify the terms of the will.

What can I do to prevent a future claim against my estate?

It is always best to use a professional to draft your will to ensure it is valid and correctly reflects your wishes.

They will also be able to advise you on any risks of litigation and what you can do to mitigate this.

Will disputes can be complex and daunting. J&P’s highly respected Private Client Department has the expertise to deal with estates and claims of all shapes and sizes in a sensitive and professional manner.

“It is always best to use a professional to draft your will to ensure it is valid and correctly reflects your wishes” THE DETAILS Judge & Priestly Nasima Ansary leads our contentious probate team and she has over 15 years’ experience in this area. To find out more, please call Nasima on 020 8290 7326 or email her on nansary@judge-priestly.co.uk

All our specialist teams are working securely from home and are available to take new instructions.

They can be contacted directly on the following numbers: Wills, Probate & LPA’s – 07940 254 130 Family Law – 020 8290 7331 Residential Conveyancing – 020 8290 7413 Lease Extensions – 020 8290 7373 Employment – 020 8290 7422

www.judge-priestley.co.uk Offices in Bromley and Beckenham

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CHARTWELL GARDENS

THROUGHOUT THE LOCKDOWN

Behind the scenes at Chartwell, a five-year restoration project draws to a close across the gardens.

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hartwell has not been so quiet since the Second World War, when Winston Churchill and his family left his beloved home behind and moved to Downing street. Although no one can visit Chartwell during the lockdown, work behind the scenes has not stopped.

2020 has seen major changes across the gardens, just prior to the lockdown the garden team were in the final throes of completing some extensive garden border restoration work and putting the final plants in position, completing a five-year restoration project.

During the lockdown a large portion of the garden team were furloughed and volunteering ceased, leaving behind a very small team to deliver the minimal essential tasks to not lose control of the garden. The remaining team have worked tirelessly, undertaking essential tasks in the garden and to keep the whole of Chartwell secure. This has included copious amounts of mowing to retain formal lawns, extensive amounts of targeted weeding on a cyclical rota and the new borders have required regular and careful watering to enable new plantings to settle in.

With the reduced staff levels, it isn’t possible to grow and care for all the annual stock in the Chartwell greenhouses as they normally would. For that reason, the annual seasonal planting and variety in the Walled Garden has been greatly reduced.

However, there will still be some eye-catching borders, most of the productive beds are being prepared for

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pumpkins and squashes to enable Chartwell to create displays this coming autumn.

The work the team has done under the current pressures is something the Chartwell team members are proud of. However these have been testing times for all and on your next visit it’s likely you’ll see less annual seasonal displays throughout the garden and some of the borders not looking their best, though this is something the team hope to rectify once lockdown measures begin to reduce.

We mustn’t forget that this isn’t the first time the gardens of Chartwell have suffered, Mary Soames, daughter of the Churchill’s described the after-war conditions in her book: “The gardens, fields and woods at Chartwell were, of course, in a shaggy and neglected state after the war years. But gradually their condition was restored”.

Though the light at the end of the tunnel may be some distance away, until Chartwell is able to reopen, the team at Chartwell and the National Trust are grateful for the continued support and look forward to welcoming visitors back to the garden as soon as it is safe to do so. The National Trust is introducing a booking system as soon as the lockdown measures allow it, so they can manage visitor numbers, allowing social distancing at their properties. Anyone planning to visit a National Trust site will have to book a place on the property webpages.

The work the team has done under the current pressures is something the Chartwell team members are proud of

THE DETAILS Chartwell House & Gardens www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell

Š National Trust 2020. Registered Charity no. 205846. Photography Š National Trust Images / Nina Elliot Newman

Pre-book your visit to Chartwell's gardens Come and visit the gardens at Chartwell and see what has changed since they were last open in March. Enjoy the wonderful roses that last all summer in Lady Churchill's Rose Garden and on the Golden Rose Avenue, or take in all the colourful interest in the many herbaceous borders.

Once Chartwell has re-opened, pre-book your visit online, or call 0344 249 1895.

nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell

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INSPIRATIONAL VIRTUAL MUSEUM TOURS Here’s how to enjoy world-class collections from home, says SaraH MarSHall.

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uring times of difficulty, arts and culture can help us make sense of a confused reality, offering refreshing perspectives and sharing lessons from the past. There’s something reassuringly therapeutic about exploring a gallery, even if you’re clueless about the works on display; for a few hours, it’s possible to get lost in another world.

While physical visits are temporarily off-limits, there’s still a chance to peruse permanent collections and temporary exhibitions from the safety of your home. From top institutions to emerging collectives, curatorial teams have flexed their creative muscles to allow access online.

Click open virtual vaults to uncover dusty artefacts, or brush up on modern history through interactive displays. Best of all, there’s no entrance fee and you can wander freely without any crowds.

1. The Metropolitan Museum Of Art, New York, USA Best for... mixing art with architecture So many of the world’s greatest museums are housed within buildings as beautiful as the art they display. Celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, New York’s premier arts institution, The Met, has published a series of 360- degree videos offering visitors unique views and access to areas they might otherwise miss (even if lockdown wasn’t in place).

Explore the neoclassical grandeur of The Great Hall, admire fragments of the Nubian Temple of Dendur set around a shimmering pool in The Sackler Wing, and discover The Met Cloisters, an enchanting branch of the museum located in 22 JUNE 2020

northern Manhattan, overlooking the Hudson River, with a focus on medieval European art.

Audio guides to current exhibitions are also available online. Discover the stories behind landmark works by Rembrandt and Vermeer as part of the In Praise of Painting: Dutch Masterpieces At The Met exhibition.

How: Visit metmuseum.org

2. British Museum, London, UK Best for... unearthing great facts Had you snuck into this grand dame museum at the beginning of lockdown, you’d probably still be making your way around displays. The sprawling

“The Met, has published a series of 360- degree videos offering visitors unique views and access to areas they might otherwise miss”

mass of exotic finds and controversial treasures demands hours of attention; impossible to absorb in one visit, there’s always something new to find.

As part of their online The Museum Of The World project, navigate key pieces via a nifty interactive grid, divided by geographical continent and historic period and connected by surprising, hidden links.

Spiral back to 2000 BC to find how the Babylonians in Iran analysed sheep liver in the same way a fortune teller reads tea leaves, and discover the African origins of Kozo, the doubleheaded dog.

How: Visit britishmuseum.withgoogle.com

Sir David Attenborough, who has voiced several audio guides for the Natural History Museum in London.

lofty, academic discourse and jaw-droppingly expensive exhibits, this ever-evolving, crowdsourced collection features everyday items donated by members of the public. People are invited to offload trinkets, talismans and any symbolic items relating to failed relationships as a cathartic means to dust off the past and move on.

Although it has permanent galleries in LA and Zagreb, from the outset, the museum was built with a virtual space in mind; users can time-lock painful memories in a vault or share their own bust-up stories and images online. Many items from the collection are also virtually view-able - from entwined claddagh rings deposited by a distraught, jilted girlfriend, to a stolen scrap of belly button fluff shared to defiantly stick two fingers up at an ex.

How: Visit brokenships.com/explore

5. Natural History Museum, London, UK

3. Canadian Museum For Human Rights, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada Best for... opening your mind Perhaps one of the greatest lessons we can draw from this global pandemic is the value of kindness and respect shared between strangers. The need for greater equality is a battle that’s been fought throughout history with varying degrees of success; looking back at achievements and failures could help us understand where we need to go next.

The world’s only museum dedicated to global human rights features stories, exhibits and tools to inspire and educate future activists. Download their app to tour two current exhibitions: Proclamation 1982 explains the background to a groundbreaking document which would grant every person in Canada stronger human rights, and Ododo Wa: Stories of Girls In War traces the harrowing ordeal of two young Ugandan girls kidnapped by rebel group, The Lord’s Resistance Army.

How: Visit humanrights.ca. App available at the AppStore or GooglePlay.

Best for... nerding out on nature Right now, it feels like humanity is at the centre of the universe; in reality, we’re dwarfed by the magnificence of our natural world. Nowhere is that story better told than the Natural History Museum, where inhabitants of land, sea, air - and even space have starring roles.

Spanning 25.2 metres, the skeleton of Hope the blue whale wows visitors when they enter the grand Hintze Hall. While it’s impossible to appreciate the marine mammal’s scale from a computer screen, an interactive online display shares several fascinating facts about the creature.

Venturing further into the museum, there’s a chance to zoom in on cabinets of beetles and flick through images on display in the popular Wildlife Photographer Of The Year exhibition. Other areas can be explored through audio guides narrated by David Attenborough, whose authoritative, familiar tones provide soothing relief to these troubled days.

How: Visit nhm.ac.uk/visit/virtual-museum. html

4. Museum Of Broken Relationships, LA, USA, and Zagreb, Croatia Best for... life lessons Proof not all museums and galleries revolve around JUNE 2020 23

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IT PAYS TO THINK AHEAD We live in unpredictable times; an area where one often seeks certainty is the distribution of assets upon death.

I

t is not uncommon to assume one does not need a Will. This is particularly true of married couples, civil partners and even cohabitees.

And while it is true the rules laid down by statute (the Intestacy rules) may be sufficient for some, they will not be suitable for everyone.

A misconception is that Intestacy rules provide for a deceased person’s entire estate to pass to their spouse or civil partner; however, if there are children or more remote descendants this may not be the case. Where a deceased person leaves a spouse and descendants, under the Intestacy rules, the spouse will receive the personal effects and a statutory legacy of £270,000. The remainder of the estate is divided into two equal shares, with one half passing to the spouse and the other divided between the descendants.

In addition, there is no right for a cohabitee to inherit; the rules make no provision for a “common law spouse”.

To ensure one’s estate passes to who they would like to benefit, they should prepare a Will.

In many cases this is straightforward. A couple

24 JUNE 2020

will leave all their assets to one another; on the survivor’s death, the combined estates pass to their children. However, it is not unusual for a couple to have different beneficiaries, such as children from previous relationships. As the survivor’s Will, or the Intestacy rules upon their death dictate the ultimate destination of the combined assets, it could be that the survivor’s children inherit everything. One should think about how to provide for their partner while ensuring they leave their own wealth to their desired beneficiaries.

It may be appropriate to use a trust. A trust is a versatile instrument which allows assets to be held for the benefit of named persons. For example, spouse A might leave their interest in the matrimonial home to spouse B for life; as spouse B never inherits the property outright, upon spouse B’s death the asset will pass on the terms of the trust to spouse A’s beneficiaries, rather than under spouse B’s Will.

In short, it is always worth taking some time to reflect on your circumstances should you wish to ensure certainty.

A misconception is that Intestacy rules provide for a deceased person’s entire estate to pass to their spouse or civil partner

THE DETAILS Wellers Law Group David Harris is a Chartered Legal Executive at Wellers Law Group specialising in Wills, Powers of Attorney and estate administration.

Telephone 020 8464 4242, david. harris@wellerslawgroup.com. www.wellerslawgroup.com

A SIMPLE WILL OR A SMART WILL? A valid up to date Will, prepared by a qualified solicitor is essential to help protect your dependants from the rules of intestacy which are by no means certain to ensure that your estate will go to those you would have chosen.

A simple Will can help you do this, will not cost the earth and we would be happy to talk you through the process.

Don’t miss out on an opportunity However your Will can do so much more. It is a brilliant means of solving specific problems you and your family may be facing. That is why we have created a series of Wills that can be used to address your more complicated requirements: Unmarried couples – Avoid double taxation for unmarried couples and potentially save up to £130,000 in Inheritance Tax.

Protect vulnerable dependants – Look after the finances and welfare of vulnerable spouses or children when you have gone.

More than one marriage – Where more than one marriage is involved this Will can ensure the right family members inherit from your estate.

Business owners – If you own a business, you can structure its assets so that it does not become liable to Inheritance Tax on your death.

Inheritance Tax – Use trusts to pay no tax on the first death and substantially reduce tax on the second death.

Care fees and the family home – Don’t allow the value of your family home to be lost to pay care fees in later life.

If any of these issues is relevant to you please call your local Wellers office to arrange a no obligation initial meeting. In the present environment you may not be able to travel or meet in person and we are happy to arrange consultations by phone and video conferencing if you would prefer.

BROMLEY

SEVENOAKS

CHISLEHURST

Tel: 020 8464 4242

Tel: 01732 457575

Tel: 020 8295 1989

Wellers Law Group Tenison House,Tweedy Road, Bromley, Kent BR1 3NF.

Wellers Reece-Jones 2nd floor, 50 - 52 London Road Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1AS.

Wellers Law Group 1A Bromley Lane, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 6LH.

www.wellerslawgroup.com Wellers Law Group LLP is registered in England and Wales, registered number OC350170 and is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority No 525515.

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A UNIQUE LEARNING EXPERIENCE A holistic education is offered at Bishop Challoner

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ishop Challoner School is an independent Catholic co-educational establishment situated in Shortlands, Bromley. It is steeped in a rich tradition of history and the school is housed in the oldest building in Shortlands.

The 3 -18 school boasts of an all-through education offering a unique learning experience from nursery through to sixth form. Bishop Challoner is about much more than gaining excellent academic success but about development of the whole individual, offering an educational foundation for life to the full, ensuring that each child develops spiritually, morally, socially, physically and emotionally.

Bishop Challoner attracts children of all faiths and none, parents choose the school because they know that their son or daughter will gain a unique experience in a caring, nurturing and supportive environment that has high expectations and excellent discipline. The school is a place of great ethnic richness, characterised by tolerance, respect, love, fairness, forgiveness, and generosity to others, a genuine spirit of enquiry and search for truth. This is another reason why many parents who are not of the Catholic faith, also choose to send their children to Bishop Challoner.

In February 2020, Bishop Challoner was judged to be an outstanding Catholic school in their Diocesan Denominational Inspection. The report documented that, ‘Pastoral care at Bishop Challoner

26 JUNE 2020

is outstanding. This has resulted in a highly inclusive and welcoming learning community where the pupils feel safe and very well cared for. Consequently, relationships between pupils and their teachers are excellent, as are the peer to peer relationships’.

The numerous events that the children enjoy from art competitions, drama, music, sporting fixtures and extra-curricular activities, enhances their holistic life at the school and provides for a happy environment.

Bishop Challoner continues to go from strength to strength with a dedicated team of highly qualified staff and supportive parents.

Through partnership of family and staff, the school fosters an education of the whole person in preparation for adult life.

Pupils are able to be challenged, take risks and feel comfortable through consistent, well-planned teaching by staff who know them. The school is able to track and monitor their progress and provide on-going support to ensure each pupil reaches their full potential.

The School offers 7+, 11+, 13+ and sixth form scholarships, and has a selected number of bursaries available. The fees are reasonable compared to many other independent schools. The school is a 4-5 minute walk from Shortlands station and has excellent transport links. Pupils travel from a wide catchment area on public transport.

You will be warmly welcomed to the school where every day is ‘open day’ and where the pupils are the school’s best advertisement.

Bishop Challoner continues to go from strength to strength with a dedicated team of highly qualified staff and supportive parents THE DETAILS Find out more by visiting bishopchallonerschool.com, emailing admissions@ bishopchallonerschool.com or calling 020 8460 3546

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LOVE LOCAL

80th annivErsarY

The terror of London: The Blitz september 1940–June 1941

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t 4:56pm on September 7, 1940, 300 German bombers raid London in the first of 57 consecutive nights of bombing until 7 November. The German air force had changed its strategy of bombing the British Air Force (Battle of Britain) and began to set their sights on destroying the capital. London had nine million people a fifth of the British population – living in an area of 750 square miles.

The first day of the Blitz - as it became known in the British press, was called Black Saturday as 448 people were killed, many thousands were injured and many building were destroyed.

Water and gas pipes throughout the East End were fractured, as were electricity and telephone cables. The primary target at this stage was not the civilian population but, given that employees lived near the docks and factories, the ‘collateral damage’ in terms of lives and homes was appalling. London was bombed daily except, amazingly, on Christmas or Boxing Day 1940, but on 29 December the Luftwaffe returned with over 300 incendiaries dropped in a minute around St Paul’s Cathedral.

Miraculously, the symbol of London’s defiance, survived.

The people of Britain did expect to be bombed

by Germanyso the government did several things in preparation: • Everyone was given a gas mask. It was thought that the bombs might contain poisonous gas and the gas mask would protect the wearer from the deadly fumes. Children were issued with what became known as “Mickey Mouse” gas masks – the nickname an attempt to make the gas masks seem less scary.

30 june 2020

• Children were evacuated to rural locations considered to be safe. Evacuation was voluntary, but the fear of bombing and the closure of many urban schools helped persuade families to send their children away to live with strangers.

• Lots of city hospitals were cleared so that they were ready to treat people who had been injured in the air raids. A task repeated recently with the devastating Covid 19 pandemic. Many that survived the Second World War are making comparisons.

• Public air raid shelters were built as a place of safety with people building their own shelters in their gardens. No one could sleep easy in their beds, so virtually took up residence. Anderson Shelters were half buried in the ground to protect them from bomb blasts. These were made from six corrugated iron sheets bolted together at the top, with steel plates at either end, and measured 6ft 6in by 4ft 6in. The entrance was protected by a steel shield and an earthen blast wall.

The people of London also started to use the London Underground as a giant air raid shelter. About 150,000 people a night slept in the Underground, Volunteers sometimes handed out hot drinks to boost morale. Entertainment included concerts, films, plays and books from local libraries.

Organisations such as the British Red Cross and the Salvation Army worked to improve conditions.

About 60,000 slept in the underground tunnels themselves, which soon became cramped and smelly. Even the tunnels weren’t safe from the

“Public air raid shelters were built as a place of safety with people building their own shelters in their gardens”

German bombs. At least one station was hit directly, killing many of the Londoners who were sheltered inside. In March 1943, 173 men, women and children were crushed to death at Bethnal Green tube station in a panic after a woman fell down the steps as she entered the station.

• Blackout regulations were imposed nationally on 1 September 1939 to prevent the Germans seeing our towns from above. This meant that all sources of light had to be blacked out. Windows were covered in the dark material. Car headlamps were also blacked out, causing many accidents, and people were not even allowed to smoke cigarettes or cigars outdoors.

• Warning! British air raid sirens sounded for the first time 22 minutes after Neville Chamberlain declared war on Germany. Although bombing attacks unexpectedly did not begin immediately.

When the first German bombers were spotted, a siren was started, known as ‘Wailing Winnie’ or ‘Moaning Minnie’ because of its ululating notes.

This was incredibly loud, Air raid wardens used wooden rattles to warn people of danger and help to lead them towards the air raid shelters.

On 15th October, listeners to a BBC news bulletin hear a crash as a bomb falls on Broadcasting House. Presenter Bruce Belfrage merely pauses before carrying on. The nightly BBC news bulletin at nine o’clock was a fixed feature in people’s lives.

Programmes went off air during raids, and the eerie fading of the radio was an early sign of an impending attack.

The Blitz removed barriers between men and women. With so many men in the services, several essential roles necessary to keep London safe now fell to women. Women took on roles such as ambulance drivers, air raid wardens and munitions workers.

The worst air raid on London during the Blitz took place on 10-11 May 1941. The larger incidents took place at House of Commons with the raging fire causing the roof to collapse, the District Line Railway near Ebury Street, Hallam Street, New Bond Street, the Queen’s Hall, the Turner Buildings and Westminster Abbey. It inflicted the highest number of casualties of any single night raid of the London Blitz: 1,436 Londoners killed and over 2,000 others seriously injured. The bombing lasted nearly seven hours. British anti-aircraft batteries and RAF night fighters managed to shoot down 33 planes, but despite their best efforts it was one of the most destructive raids of the war.

It was entirely rational to be afraid during the Blitz. But there was little medical help for people suffering mental anguish. But according to Anna Freud, London civilians surprisingly did not suffer from widespread shell shock. Clinics opened to receive mental casualties of the attacks closed due to lack of need. Although the stress of the war resulted in many anxiety attacks, eating disorders, fatigue, weeping, miscarriages, and other physical and mental ailments, society did not collapse.

The cheerful crowds visiting bomb sites were so large they interfered with rescue work, pub visits increased in number (beer was never rationed), and 13,000 attended cricket at Lord’s. People left shelters when told instead of refusing to leave, although many housewives reportedly enjoyed the break from housework. Some people even told government surveyors that they enjoyed air raids if they occurred occasionally, perhaps once a week.

There would be other serious raids, but as Hitler prepared to turn east to invade Russia, the Blitz on Britain was over.

The Germans had failed to break the will of the British people.

june 2020 31

AD DV V VE E RTISEMEN RTIS RTI TIS E EMEN M EN T MEN

Co-parenting during the Covid-19 pandemic N

ONE of us thought that we would find ourselves in the midst of a pandemic. It is a difficult time for all of us. Trying to co-parent during this crisis can make it even more tricky. We thought it would be helpful, therefore, to outline some key considerations on how to approach this ‘new norm’ for you, your ex-partner and your children.

The Government’s guidelines on childcare arrangements have been made very clear:

Where parents or someone with parental responsibility do not live in the same household, children under 18 can be moved between their parents’ homes

• No one is self-isolating or showing signs of the coronavirus in either home • Your children are not classed as vulnerable, nor are any of the people in either home

Embrace technology If one parent has symptoms or has to selfisolate, make common sense decisions. Don’t break the rules and allow the virus to spread.

Instead, embrace technology to maintain your relationship by setting up electronic forms of communication with your children.

Skype, Zoom, WhatsApp and FaceTime are all obvious choices, but you will know what works best for you and your family.

Keep talking

This means that the childcare agreements (either a Child Arrangement Order or your own discussions) that were in place before the pandemic can continue, as long as the following are considered:

Maintaining communication with your ex-partner, however hard, can help ease the stress of this situation. There will be things that you will need to discuss, such as home schooling, if you are a key worker or whether children spend longer at each home to reduce unnecessary travel.

• You follow the Government’s guidelines on staying safe • There is no risk of infection to your children

If you can’t agree with your ex-partner on how to settle into the new situation, and you feel that your child’s arrangements

T H O M A S D U N T O N SOLICITORS ESTABLISHED 1978

If you can’t agree

217–219 High Street, Orpington, Kent BR6 0NZ Telephone: 01689 822554 Email: family@thomasdunton.co.uk

For more information, call us or visit our website:

www.thomasdunton.co.uk

need to be adapted to adhere to the Government’s guidelines, then you can vary this arrangement. But be mindful that once this situation lifts, and if the Family Courts become involved because your ex-partner was not in agreement with your decision, you will need to demonstrate that you acted ‘reasonably and sensibly’.

If the situation becomes unreasonable, with one parent preventing the other parent contact, and there is no reason for the child to self-isolate, then you may wish to talk to us about applying for a Child Arrangements Order to facilitate contact.

Ultimately, in all of this, it is the safety and welfare of the child that needs to be paramount. It is a worrying time for all of us, but it is encouraging to remember that this situation is temporary. Ideally, a unified approach from both parents on how they deal with their children’s arrangements will hopefully resonate positively for a long time afterwards.

Information correct as at Thursday 14th May 2020.

Maria James

Solicitor Family Department

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EXTENDING KINDNESS

Babington House School pupil and sister support NHS staff during the pandemic

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ella and her younger sister Alessia, have been hard at work making surgical mask ear extenders for frontline NHS staff to stop the masks being so painful and uncomfortable to wear for long hours. This is their own project which they started by using their birthday money for materials.

So far, they have made over 600 and delivered 100 mask extenders each to COVID wards at the PRUH Hospital, St Thomas’ Hospital, King’s College Hospital and Lewisham Hospital. A further 100 have been sent to the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital and some are even on their way to a nurse in Dorset!

Bella is a Year 7 pupil at Babington House School in Chislehurst. Production has slowed now ‘school’ has started back and home learning has resumed, but the girls have not given up - another 100 are almost ready for a North London Hospital.

A local businessman hearing this heart-warming story on Facebook has kindly donated £100 for further materials. He knows of some local care home workers, visiting carers, NHS Physios and occupational therapists in the Chislehurst area in need of them.

On hearing this news Lucy Scala, the girls’ mother said, “Oh that’s amazing! They say yes please, £100 will

34 JUNE 2020

buy enough materials for another 600 mask extenders!”

This started as a small project but is clearly growing. 200 have been collected and distributed at St Thomas’ Hospital and at Evelina London Children’s Hospital. The girls have made super glittery versions for the children’s hospital!!

Bella commented, “We especially enjoyed making the extenders for King’s as we were both born at the hospital. We also loved helping The Evelina because they helped me so much when I was ill. Thank you NHS. We are hoping half term means we can make even more.”

Tim Lello the Headmaster of Babington House said, “this is a fantastic demonstration of kindness, positivity, generosity and enterprise. I like to think that adversity brings out the best in good people and this is certainly true with Bella and Alessia. I am so proud of them!”

Thank you to Bella and Alessia for supporting the NHS at this difficult time, we are all very proud of you.

We especially enjoyed making the extenders for King’s as we were both born at the hospital THE DETAILS Visit Babington House School @ www.babingtonhouse.com

Babington House School Independent Day School from 3 to 18 years Chislehurst, London Borough of Bromley Kent BR7 5ES Headmaster: Mr T Lello, MA, FRSA, NPQH

Recruiting now for 2020 and beyond

Open Morning Saturday, 10th October 9.00am - 12 noon

Inspiring Teachers, Inspiring Children

Register Now

www.babingtonhouse.com

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ASTON MARTIN VANTAGE: SPORTS CAR SUPERIORITY FOR 70 YEARS

British brand. Spanning seven decades and covering some of the company’s most revered sports cars, the Vantage family forms a crucial part of the everevolving Aston Martin story.

From the earliest days of the DB2 Vantage to today’s state-of-the-art Vantage sports car, this historic name has become synonymous with pace, power and more than a dash of style.

70 years of Vantage

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ston Martin this year celebrates the creation of one of its most famous model designations, as the Vantage family of sports cars marks its 70th

anniversary.

The name Vantage proudly sits on more than a third of all the sports cars ever made by the luxury 36 june 2020

The word Vantage first appeared in 1950, with the debut of the Aston Martin DB2 with Vantage specification. At the 1951 Earl’s Court Motor Exhibition, an Aston Martin press release said: “On the 1951 Earl’s Court stand will be displayed two Aston Martin DB.II saloons, one fitted with the regular engine and one fitted with the ‘Vantage’ engine, the high speed regularity of which was demonstrated so forcibly at Le Mans this year and last.”

The DB4 Vantage made its debut with the start of the DB4 Series IV cars in 1961. Key to this was the ‘Special Series’ engine, featuring three SU HD8 carburettors and revised cylinder heads with bigger

“The word Vantage first appeared in 1950, with the debut of the Aston Martin DB2 with Vantage specification”

valves and a higher compression ratio. Power was quoted at the time as 266bhp.

The more spacious DB4 Series V Vantage in 1962 featured as one of the cars used in the filming of the James Bond film Goldfinger. The car of course is now synonymous with the world’s most famous secret agent and was used in some of the filming as the basis for the film’s ‘gadget’ car.

The DB5 Convertible with the Vantage engine is a combination that is rarer still with only eight sports cars out of 123 built, featuring this engine. Genuine originals of the DB5 Vantage and DB5 Vantage Convertible are considered very desirable indeed.

The DB6 Vantage in Mk I and Mk II versions, followed the same tried and trusted upgrade formula. The number of original Vantage-engined cars can be counted in the dozens, rather than the hundreds, remaining hugely desirable and jealously guarded by lucky owners around the world.

The next Aston Martin Vantage was hailed at its 1977 introduction as “Britain’s first supercar”.

It could outrun a Ferrari Daytona in the 0-60 mph sprint, and if pushed to the limit it could record a top speed of 170 mph. The V8 Vantage evolved significantly over the course of its reign spanning three decades. Throughout its build period the Vantage remained the jewel in Aston Martin’s burnished crown.

The 1990s saw the Virage-based Vantage – often referred to as the supercharged Vantage. It sports six headlights and boasts massive 362mm diameter ventilated discs and four piston AP Racing callipers at the front:. With 550bhp and 550lb-ft of torque, this was, at the time, the most powerful production power plant in the world. In 1999, the DB7 V12 Vantage made its debut boasting a 5.9-litre, 48 valve, all-alloy, V12 engine delivering 420bhp. From 2000, an acclaimed ‘Touchtronic’ system became available with the last DB7 V12 Vantage built rolling off the Bloxham line in 2003. That same year, the world got its first glimpse of the AMV8 Vantage Concept.

In 2005, the production version of the V8 Vantage was unveiled and on the strength of the concept alone, order books were already bulging.

Series production began at a rate approaching 3,000 sports car per year. To date, this iteration of Vantage remains the single biggest sales success in the brand’s proud 107-year history.

In 2009, Aston Martin unveiled one of the most iconic and desirable cars yet to join the Vantage club: the V12 Vantage. On the road and mated to a six-speed manual gearbox this means a 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds, and an autobahn blistering top speed of 190 mph.

Aston Martin engineers challenged themselves with the V12 Vantage S. Power is hiked to 565bhp and the 0-60 mph time is a ferocious 3.5 seconds.

At a top speed of 205 mph, it became the fastest production car Aston Martin had yet offered to the public. A variety of special editions peppered the V12 Vantage production run, although arguably the most significant was the V12 Vantage Zagato. As befits an Aston Martin Zagato these cars are hyper rare.

Today’s cutting-edge Vantage two-seater sports car is styled for aerodynamic excellence as well as obvious kerb appeal. The car features a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine with a peak power output of 503bhp and a torque peak of 505lbft, mated to a rear-mounted 8-speed automatic gearbox. This endows the current Vantage with a distinctly brisk 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 195 mph.

The car was created to deliver a truly exhilarating driving experience.

Remarking on the enduring appeal of Vantage as part of the brand’s rich and fascinating heritage, Aston Martin Lagonda President and Group CEO, Dr Andy Palmer said: “Today’s Vantage and Vantage AMR sports cars represent the latest interpretation of what this single, yet incredibly evocative, word means to drivers around the world. As we celebrate 70 years of Vantage in 2020, it allows us to delight in our superb sports car heritage. Vantage has always stood for engineering ambition, thrilling performance and exceptional beauty, and I’m pleased that today’s models more than live up to the standards set by their iconic forebears.” www.astonmartin.com

june 2020 37

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CORONAVIRUS AND MAINTENANCE PAYMENTS Joanne McDonald, a senior solicitor in CWJ’s Family Department looks at the options available to payers and recipients of maintenance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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he coronavirus crisis is redefining lifestyles and the boundaries of our interactions; a situation that can be challenging for many couples. For couples who are struggling in their relationship, or trying to manage co-parenting, anxiety levels are likely to be heightened if it seems there is nowhere to turn, while personal movements are restricted.

The implications of the crisis will be different for many couples. Some may find that the time together has highlighted that they are incompatible or that their marriage has come to an end. We understand that at this time of financial uncertainty, the prospect of separating and funding two homes can be daunting. Even if you decide to wait until the lockdown restrictions have been lifted, it may be helpful for you to seek legal advice as to your options so that you can approach your separation in a structured and managed way when the time is right for you.

For couples who have already separated and have an order in place for one party to pay maintenance to the other, the coronavirus crisis may bring different challenges.

If there is an order in place for you to pay maintenance and you are earning less money during the crisis, or have lost your job, it may be possible to ask the court for a variation of payments. Returning to court can be costly and the best starting point would be to see if, with the assistance of legal advice, you can reach agreement between you and your former

38 JUNE 2020

spouse, while exploring other sources of income and benefits.

It is important to note that a fall in income may not justify a change in arrangements, as maintenance is needs-based and the needs of both parties and any dependent children will be evaluated. If you are therefore in receipt of maintenance and the amount being paid is unilaterally reduced by the paying party, it may be that this is not a justified reduction.

If you are receiving maintenance payments and you lose other sources of income during the current crisis, such as your job and you have a greater shortfall in your income and your income needs, you can ask for the maintenance to be increased due to the change in circumstances. The court will first expect you to take reasonable steps to secure other sources of income, such as applying for relevant Government coronavirus schemes. It is typically preferable, with the benefit of legal advice, to try and agree any variation in maintenance your former spouse before an application to court is made.

At CWJ we know it is more important than ever that we are available for our clients. In a time when face to face consultations are not possible, we are making use of video and audio conference calling to ensure we are there to support our clients through the crisis.

Whether you are considering a separation or the coronavirus crisis has affected the financial matters already in place following a separation, we are here to advise and guide you as to your options. .

For couples who have already separated and have an order in place for one party to pay maintenance to the other, the coronavirus crisis may bring different challenges

THE DETAILS For advice, telephone 01689 323053 or email Joanne.McDonald@cwj.co.uk Clarkson Wright & Jakes Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority SRA ID Number 558946

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ARTIST TEODORA NINOVA:

A Vibrant Story Of Life’s Hidden Beauty author: constanza ontivEros valdés

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eodora Ninova’s ethereal abstract paintings are a haven for beauty, serenity, and contemplation. The self-taught craft of this London-based artist from Bulgarian origins is rooted in the abstract tradition and is coloured by a lively palette that speaks to the forces of nature, the multifaceted layers of human emotion, and our deepest fibres. Ninova’s compositions are populated by vibrant, con-trasting, and expressive brushstrokes that bear both a luminous and translucent quality.

While each of her works is unique, Teodora’s paintings are created in series or collections revolving around a far-reaching theme that lends visible the transformational potential of art and hence of life experiences however challenging they are. By embracing the positives in life’s challenges, we can find peace and see - the otherwise hiddenflowers blossom in our souls. In Thich Nhat Hanh’s words, “without mud, there can be no lotus.”

“While each of her works is unique, Teodora’s paintings are created in series or collections revolving around a far-reaching theme” Most of Ninova’s works are abstract, nonetheless, some of the themes the artist has explored do include a symbolically-charged figurative component, such as a heart or butterfly, that weave on the artist’s driving forces: nature, emotion, joy, and personal growth. An open heart relates to love yet it also connects to compassion, 40 june 2020

hope, and forgiveness, being a source of inner power and creativity; while the butterfly represents transformation and reinvention of oneself.

The spiritual potential of art is also present at Ninova’s latest series, Tranquillity, now available at www.teodoraninova.com with a 15% discount for first-time buyers. This series hold a special place in the artist’s heart given it has been developed while she has been isolated due to the pandemic. During these difficult times, the artist found inspiration in the breathtaking forms that nature takes and that she has witnessed whether it be the sea, a forest, a tree, or a flower. Thusly, this series is comprised of a palette of greens contrasted with lively colours such as pink, yellow, purple, or blue overlapped with white brushstrokes. This series brings to mind the playful lights that reflect on the leaves of a tree or the waves at different times of the day, particularly, during sunrise or sunset. This collection reminds us to appreciate the unnoticed beauty and joy that lie around us and, more importantly, deep within ourselves.

Ninova’s intuitive working process is pivotal to creating the aforementioned series. It is nurtured by an ongoing hands-on experimentation with materials such as acrylic, hard/soft gels, and spray paints. Teodora creates each work by first relying on intuition for uncovering what composition emerges and then confidently applying thin and fluid layers of colour that grant her canvases a translucent and ethereal quality. The artist’s gestures are subtle yet powerful, they allow the colours to interact and react to each other resulting in strikingly vibrant and balanced paintings that open up a portal to pure beauty.

For more info: www.teodoraninova.com or IG: @teodora.ninova_art

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

[nEWs]

FASHION & BEAUTY IN THE BAG These gorgeous market baskets are perfect for a picnic, shopping at the farmers market, or storing crafts supplies or toys. Handwoven with love by female weaving cooperative in Bolgatanga area, Northern Ghana. All the baskets are fair trade. www.lolaandmawu.com

A RING TO IT wEARABLE ART Elisabeth Riveiro is a passionate jeweller who hand makes her pieces in her studio in France using ancient and traditional techniques such as lost wax casting, planishing, chiselling and enamelling. She has been working for more than thirty years translating the designs of Enesto Riveiro inspired by ancient civilisations with an emphasis on geometric, zoomorphic or symbolic patterns. They are small wearable sculptures made from bronze and then gold gilded or silver plated. www.nataliawillmott.co.uk

The band of this ring is cast from the grooved stems of the cow parsley plant found in our hedgerows throughout spring and summer. The ring is set with a round rainbow moonstone. www.lucysylvester.com

SummER ScARVES This beautiful silk scarf is by designer GuanAnAn - London. Inspired by a fantasy of characters from ancient oriental literature The Classic of Mountains and Seas. In the book, He Luo Fish and Ran Yi Fish were described as real existed mythical creatures who lives in the rivers. www.charltonisland.com

ENVIRO-STYLE HEADING IT uP Beat any unexpected weather chills with this stylish turn up beanie. Available in three colours: Orange; Light Blue; Light Grey and Dark Grey. With the unique Budeful logo, wear this beach style brand when out and about this season. www.budeful.com 42 JUNE 2020

These contemporary cactus swim shorts are made from recycled plastic bottles, keeping them out of landfill and most importantly out of our oceans. Stylish emerald green sustainable men’s swim shorts featuring a fun orange cactus print with navy and gold drawstrings. www.wearthlondon.com

MEDIA SAI�ES EXECUTIVES FlSH MEDIA GROUP

We are the proud publishers of this high quality group of magazines and are looking for two experienced telephone and face to face sales executives.

We pay a high basic plus uncapped commission, on-going training and a real development to managing your own group of magazines.

You must be enthusiastic, outgoing, confident and above all you must be able to sell.

If you can really sell and want to be part of our expansion programme call Rory Smith on 0844 800 8439 or 07817 625568.

To see the quality of our magazines and portfolio visit www.thelifemagazines.com

fish media group

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Spring/Summer 2020 Collection T

he dialogue between man and nature is at the very heart of the Giorgio Armani SS20 campaign, presented in a landscape of burnt colours, rocky surfaces and clear skies. The warm, intense light is shaded by coloured sheets that veil and unveil glimpses of wild nature.

Giorgio armani captures its spirit, proposing a new wardrobe in which everything blends together with spontaneity and elegance.

Visual references to worlds, atmospheres and cultures overlap, and a new harmony emerges from what appears, on the surface, to be accidental.

An echo of colours and materials runs through the collection, sketching out a movement that passes from the density of earthy colours – browns with touches of blue, purplish blue and turquoise, and dark greys - moves through liquid blues, and finally evaporates into ethereal notes of lightest pink and pearly grey. And in this delicate progression, the rich silk becomes tulle, organza, georgette.

The chromatic story is a journey of shapes, increasingly lighter and more weightless. The beginning is typical armani, a suit.

The look is familiar, but the kimono-style cut of the sleeves, the roundness of the shoulders, the emphasis on the waistline define a new silhouette, one which follows the curves of the body. Blazers are worn with trousers, either fluid or slim-cut. The skirts are long and fluttering; parkas are crafted from organza, and the fil coupĂŠ processing dematerialises the surfaces of the jackets that closely embrace the bust. Everything is transparent and weightless, even the multiple layers.

The overlapping floral prints create duplicate images and mirage-like effects. The long dresses sway like haloes of mist, until they rise in the gentle, polychrome sparkle of the long evening cloak gowns, swathed in embroidered details.

The collection is available now at: Giorgio Armani, 37 Sloane Street, Knightsbridge, SW1X 9LP and at www.armani.com

44 june 2020

giorgio armani slim trousers with high strap in layered silk foliage print - ÂŁ1,400; robe embroidered with crystals and squared paillettes in pink and pale blue on a silk basis with floral print - ÂŁ43,500;

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

giorgio armani double breasted short jacket with rounded shoulders and raglan sleeves in grey silk - £1,550 slim trousers with high strap and side Pockets in grey silk - £730

136 june 2020

giorgio armani long dress in printed silk enhanced with floral embroidery - ÂŁ5,350; clutch bag in dust, satin & Pvc with gold chain - ÂŁ1,350

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

giorgio armani red and white embellished single breast blazer - £2,300; navy silk blend skirt – £1,650; single-breasted linen blend jacket in red, with peak lapels and patch pockets - £1,350; linen blend trousers in blue with jean pockets - £590; brown and gold vintage sunglasses - £250

138 june 2020

giorgio armani Wide trousers in brown silk gauze with symmetrical flounce effect - ÂŁ1,550; short overall in knit brown silk and nylon with suspenders - ÂŁ2,300

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

giorgio armani grey two button jacket with chevron motif in virgin wool - £1,750; blue and pink Pvc square butterfly detail sunglasses - £250

140 june 2020

giorgio armani lustrous, double-breasted jacket in light grey velvet - £2,000; silk fit tapered trousers in light grey velvet - £990; light grey velvet waistcoat enhanced with floral embroidery - £1,170

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY FAsHiOn,

Pregnancy and early motherhood during Covid-19 pandemic

T

his different and difficult time is bringing a lot of concern to many generations.

“When we are talking about fertility, trying to get pregnant and pregnancy, it can be particularly stressful. It can bring along worry, anxiety and loneliness. We are going into unchartered waters and this, in its own right, brings fear” says renowned King Edward VII’s Hospital fertility expert, Mr Michael Dooley.

If you find you’re pregnant or have a new-born whilst in lockdown, the most important thing is to give yourself permission to be upset with the current situation. It’s not what you would have planned or expected, but there can also be hope. Remember, you are not alone. Healthcare professionals are here to help and guide you through this difficult time.

Coronavirus and pregnancy “We are still in the early days of understanding

Covid-19” says Dooley. “New information and data is coming in every day for us to provide advice – this can be difficult for our patients as facts change, and they can get confused. Currently, it does not appear that pregnant women are any more likely to get Covid-19, or if they do catch it, to be seriously unwell.”

Usually, patients will get mild flu-like symptoms, although pregnancy may give slightly more aggravated symptoms. Obviously, severity increases as you get older, if you’re immune-compromised or have another medical condition.

Will Covid -19 affect my baby?

Mr Dooley says: “There is no evidence that it increases the risk of miscarriage and no evidence that it increases the risk of abnormality. It may transmit vertically at birth, and this is how new-born babies can obtain it. This has been documented anecdotally as well as from two small studies.”

You can reduce your chance of catching Covid-19 by routine hand washing, using tissues for facial contact and discarding the tissues in a safe container, and obviously avoiding social contact.

“Social isolation is important, and if there is any concern you’ve been in contact with someone who has contracted Covid-19, don’t panic. Self-isolate and monitor your symptoms” explains Dooley. “It is especially important that you continue to listen to and follow the up to date Government guidelines.”

Ante-natal care and labour during Covid-19 Understandably, people are often worried about 52 june 2020

“New information and data is coming in every day for us to provide advice – this can be difficult for our patients as facts change, and they can get confused.

Currently, it does not appear that pregnant women are any more likely to get Covid-19, or if they do catch it, to be seriously unwell.”

their ante-natal care and how they will be affected.

It is important that you talk to your midwife and your medical team – fear of the unknown can be reduced this way. A pregnancy is there to be enjoyed and cherished, so talking to your care team if you feel overwhelmed will really help alleviate worry.

“Scans are still being arranged, but there may be some restrictions on when the partner can attend.

Certain appointments may also be conducted via phone. However, it is extremely important that if you have any concerns, whatever they are, including decreased movement, bleeding etc, that you still call your midwife or maternity unit or 111” explains Dooley.

If you develop a cough, fever, loss of taste or smell, or shortness of breath, it is important that you call 111 and do not attend your scheduled appointment. A lot of these symptoms could be due to other medical conditions, such as a urinary tract infection. However, appropriate care will be offered by specialists who will be well equipped to look after you. “Remember, a lot of health professionals will be wearing PPE. If you have indeed contracted the virus, a lot of hospitals after a Covid-19 infection arrange for a scan to be done 2 weeks later” says Dooley.

“If your partner gets symptoms, it is essential that they do not attend the hospital, follow government guidelines and make your hospital aware. They will be able to help you.”

During labour, there will be local policies and again, it is important that you talk to your hospital about their policy. “It is important that a plan is put together, and the involvement of your partner

is discussed. This is true for spontaneous labour, induced labour or for caesarean section. There obviously will be a difference in the environment and a lot of the staff may be wearing PPE” says Dooley.

Breast feeding and Covid-19 A lot of new parents are worried about breastfeeding. “At present, there is no evidence you cannot continue with this” explains Dooley. “If you do contract Covid-19, speak to your midwife and follow the latest guidelines but at present, it is advisable to wear masks and take the usual precautions.” Again, with social isolation, all visitors should be avoided.

THE DETAILS If you or someone you love is feeling anxious about getting pregnant, there is hope. Find out more about the King Edward VII’s Poundbury Fertility Centre by contacting our patient services team: 020 7467 4344 Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm www.kingedwardvii.co.uk

june 2020 53

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

What’s not to love about a Retirement Village?

T

he start of a new year is all about new beginnings and how life can be improved.

Whether you are a first-time buyer or someone in retirement looking to downsize to a more manageable property, moving to a new house can often be top of this list. For those in retirement there’s now more choice than ever. With the growth in retirement villages it’s now not just about moving to a better sized property but also about moving to a friendly and caring community where your property and gardens are maintained for you.

One such retirement village is Emerson Park, in Hextable, Kent, who have an open day on Saturday 25th January (10am – 4pm) so that visitors can learn more about the appeal of such a community.

Paul Hart, manager at Emerson Park commented, “Many people have the preconceived idea that retirement apartments are small pokey flats with very little or no support and facilities.

This certainly isn’t the case at Emerson Park; large well-designed apartments with the very highest quality specification are complimented with luxury amenities such as the Club House Room where you can meet friends for a coffee or enjoy a 3-course meal, obviously after enjoying a G&T in the bar first! You can keep in shape in the gym, be pampered in the hair and beauty salon or enjoy a good film in the cinema. Or why not take up a new hobby? Our dedicated Events & Activities team arrange a whole host of social events tailored around the interests of the people living here.”

As well as having all these facilities on your doorstep a move to such a retirement community not only means you can enjoy the independence of a new home but also live without the worry of the

54 JUNE 2020

ongoing upkeep and maintenance associated with an older property. As well as this is the support system which is available at certain retirement developments and one Paul was keen to explain.

“It’s not only the apartment and facilities which people are buying into at Emerson Park, but also the services. Our driver will provide scheduled trips, either to the local supermarket or to places of interest such as National Trust properties or a theatre trip. Our gardeners and maintenance team will ensure the site looks its best throughout the year. Plus, all apartments have the reassurance of an emergency call system which are answered by members of staff who are on-site 24-hours a day.”

Emerson Park also has the added reassurance of its very own care home on-site, Emerson Grange, which provides the very best residential, nursing and dementia care on a permanent or short-term basis. And forget what you think about care homes, Emerson Grange is more like a high-end hotel.

For further information on Emerson Park call 01322 515415 or visit www.cinnamoncc.com/emersonpark

“Large well-designed apartments with the very highest quality specification are complimented with luxury amenities such as the Club House Room where you can meet friends for a coffee or enjoy a 3-course meal, obviously after enjoying a G&T in the bar first!”

Emerson Park Retirement Village & Care Home A perfect place for family memories.

We believe Emerson Park is unlike anything else around - luxury retirement apartments with a range of high class facilities along with an exclusive care home.

If you need to sell your current property before moving into Emerson Park our Part-Exchange Scheme can make this simple. Our immediate cash offer and guaranteed sale ensures there is no chain and contracts can typically be exchanged within 28 days.

You can stay in your current property for up to two weeks after completion and we handle all legal paperwork and costs. No fees, no hassle. (Terms & Conditions apply).

CALL NOW FOR MORE INFORMATION – 01322 515415

Viewings by appointment only - please call for details

Emerson Park, Rowhill Road, Hextable, Kent BR8 7FP

www.cinnamoncc.com/emersonpark

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

STYLE ICONS

WHO DEFINED

THE FASHION OF A DECADE From Audrey Hepburn in the Fifties to Kim Kardashian in the 2010s, these are the women whose style summed up an era.

W

hether it’s the swinging Sixties or the minimalism of the Nineties, every decade has a distinctive style, each championed by certain celebrities.

Style icons help encapsulate everything that is fashionable from their time, while not necessarily being the celebrities who had the most out-there or unique style. Instead, they’re individuals who captured the feel and fashion of a specific era, set trends everyone wanted to follow, and are still today associated with the style of a particular decade.

These are some of the most stand-out icons from the 1950s to today...

1950s: Audrey Hepburn With her sleek black Givenchy dresses, strings of pearls and big sunglasses, Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly in Breakfast At Tiffany’s is still one of the most fashionable characters in film.

56 JUNE 2020

“There’s no doubt Twiggy’s aesthetic sums up the 1960s: super slight, with a pixie crop and voluminous lashes”

By its release in 1961 though, Hepburn was already a style icon in her own right, known for sleek silhouettes with nipped in waists, strapless dresses and a love of preppy collars. It’s an aesthetic that has proved timeless, and endlessly inspiring.

1960s: Twiggy There’s no doubt Twiggy’s aesthetic sums up the 1960s: super slight, with a pixie crop and voluminous lashes.

Twiggy - real name Lesley Lawson - was everything you’d want from a supermodel of the time, dressed head-to-toe in mod outfits from stripy dresses to the ever-present miniskirt (Mary Quant reigned supreme).

1990s: Kate Moss The fashion of the Seventies and Eighties was all about maximalism, but this all changed in the Nineties.

Supermodel Kate Moss represented a more low-key, grungy kind of glamour, wearing a slew of jeans, spaghetti straps and barely-there slip dresses.

This wasn’t an era of sparkles and sequins - instead, Moss become synonymous with the so-called ‘heroin chic’ trend: being super skinny and having that ‘just got out of bed’ look.

2000s: Rihanna Nowadays, we know Rihanna as a red carpet powerhouse, and as the creative director of Fenty, making her the first black woman to run a major luxury house under LVMH. Back in the 2000s, Rihanna was still a fashion icon, but in a very different way to today. Instead of forging her own path, she pretty much wore every trend of the decade. Red carpet events appeared to be an exercise in Noughties fashion box-checking, from low-rise jeans to babydoll dresses and lots of ruched satin.

This was before Rihanna found her fashion ‘voice’, but in the Noughties, we were all copying her.

1970s: Bianca Jagger Bianca Jagger was a Seventies it-girl, known for her association with the New York club, Studio 54, which was frequented by the likes of Andy Warhol and Elton John.

Jagger was often seen in perfectly tailored suits with flared trousers, showing suiting wasn’t just for men, but also played with sequins, feathers and excellent hats.

Born in Nicaragua, she shot to fame after marrying Mick Jagger and was known for her glamorous, party-girl life. Arguably Jagger’s most iconic moment came in 1977, when she mounted a white horse in Studio 54 on her 34th birthday. She did so in classic style: with blown-out hair and a slinky, off-the-shoulder dress.

1980s: Diana Ross In all honesty, Diana Ross was a defining icon of the Sixties, Seventies and Eighties.

She’s such a style chameleon she’s managed to adapt to each era, championing trends while keeping her own signature brand of glamour.

Ross is arguably best known for her Eighties fashion though, which was full of shoulder pads, glitter and big hair.

“Back in the 2000s, Rihanna was still a fashion icon, but in a very different way to today”

2010s: Kim Kardashian Love her or hate her, you can’t deny the impact Kim Kardashian has had on fashion. There are so many trends we can thank the Kardashian/Jenner clan for, spearheaded by Kim. She helped bring bicycle shorts to the fore, along with fancy athleisure wear, skintight dresses and an obsession with neutral tones and colour blocking.

Whatever she wears is watched by eagle-eyed fans and retailers - so much so, Kardashian won a lawsuit against fast fashion brand Missguided USA last year, arguing it was “notorious” for “knocking off ” the designer clothes she wore.

We’re now in a new decade, which begs the question: is there space for a new style star to emerge and dominate the 2010s?

Only time will tell.

JUNE 2020 57

HOME RENOVATION: THE COMpLETE HOUSE & GARDEN GUIDE sPonsorEd BY

Expert property solicitors for all aspects of residential conveyancing. www.slatergordon.co.uk/property

– Keep it local for everything house and home – i M ag E : o r i g i n l E i s u r E

HOME RENOVATION

PRACTICALLY

PERFECT

PANTRIES If you’ve always wanted a larder but don’t have the space for an extra room, or the budget, then a pantry is a great alternative. In fact, the pantry is becoming highly desirable in kitchen design and is now a must-have storage solution. Why? Adrian Stoneham, MD at Stoneham Kitchens explains.

T

he pantry is extremely versatile and can be designed so that it is crafted to suit your needs, from glass shelving, to drawers for wine bottles to spice racks fitted into the doors. These large units are getting taller, and with plenty of space, we hope you agree that they are practically perfect.

Here are a number of options to inspire your pantry design.

Wooden Pantry A popular choice is a wooden oak pantry with open shelving for the top half. These shelves can be customised with different heights to allow space for all sizes of packed goods, from small jars to cereal boxes and bottled drinks. Dependent on the depth of your cupboards, turntables (or lazy Susans) are ideal for organising your items – just spin the wheel to access what you need without having to reach right to the back. Another option is to fit spice racks to the upper door which provides an innovative space saving solution to keep your herbs and spices neatly tucked away.

For the lower half, drawers can break up the design providing hidden storage for other items – these are also ideal to keep groceries out of reach of young children. Additionally, if you are going down the customised route, ask your kitchen manufacturer about personalising each drawer by engraving them for a bespoke touch. This will allow you to organise specific items so you can easily find them.

The Pantry Bar For those who enjoy entertaining, pantry bars are on the rise offering storage for your finest wines and spirits. These can also be designed as a stand-alone 60 JUNE 2020

unit in your kitchen or integrated into the rest of your kitchen furniture to create a ‘wow’ feature in the room. Add glass shelving to display your best wine glasses, crystal tumblers and champagne flutes and a larger bar shelf below for that all important drink preparation, and to store your spirit bottles. You can also incorporate drawers below that have been crafted to lay bottles of wine or fizz for those special occasions and even wooden chopping boards that slide in and out of the cabinet. To show off your wares, think about glass doors to reveal your bar or opt for pocket doors that slide and hide away –these are great for space saving and when entertaining guests.

The pantry is extremely versatile and can be designed so that it is crafted to suit your needs

You can also incorporate drawers below that have been crafted to lay bottles of wine or fizz for those special occasions and even wooden chopping boards that slide in and out of the cabinet Dynamic Space Tower Another pantry option being incorporated into kitchen design is the Dynamic Space Tower. Maximising internal space in the kitchen, this impressive tower is available in the broadest selection of tall unit heights, widths and depths with the option of glass sided drawers for excellent visibility of stored goods. There is the option to choose your own material in place of glass for a more personalised design. Another benefit is that each drawer has a weight capacity of 40kg, ideal for heavy items such as tins, jars and crockery. Both elegant and functional, the Dynamic Space Tower is the must-have solution for all manner of provisions, customised for each home.

The coffee cupboard If you are a regular tea or coffee drinker, then you’ll love this pantry crafted specifically for the caffeine connoisseur. A bespoke coffee station can include many possibilities such as shelves for your cups and saucers as well as tea, coffee and sugar pots and that all important coffee machine to take centre stage of the unit. Think about the height of the machine so that you are not reaching up or having to bend down too low. Further additions can also include a sink, wooden chopping boards that neatly fit into their own slot and drawers for essential storage space.

Dependent on your choice of coffee brand, another element that can organise your coffee selection is bespoke internal drawers made for Nespresso capsules – this allows you to lay out your capsules individually, making it easy to spot the intensity level you or your visitors desire.

Alternatively, if you don’t want to utilise the space for just hot beverages, you could create a breakfast cupboard instead, factoring in space for cereals, spreads, a bread tin and even a microwave. This combined with a coffee machine caters for the most important meal of the day. Opt for a tall cabinet to maximize storage space.

Even if you don’t have a lot of space, a pantry can be incorporated into your kitchen by making use of the height of your walls. But, whatever you decide, make sure you work with your kitchen designer for a design that suits your lifestyle. With so many storage ideas available, think about mixing and matching different elements to get the best functionality – this teamed with a beautiful aesthetic will give you the perfect pantry.

THE DETAILS Stoneham Kitchens 020 8300 8181 www.stoneham-kitchens.co.uk JUNE 2020 61

HOME RENOVATION

COBLANDS GARDEN CENTRE SUPPORTS UK GROWERS C

oblands Garden Centre in Sundridge, Sevenoaks has re-opened after government guidelines have allowed garden centres to open. Social distancing rules are now in place and the team at Coblands Garden Centre have been busy welcoming back customers.

Full social distancing guidelines can be found at coblandsgardencentre.co.uk.

“We are delighted that we can welcome customers back into our centre and it has been great to see some of our loyal customers that we have been busy

62 JUNE 2020

delivering to whilst our doors were closed back at our base in Sundridge,” says Judith Kerr-Sheppard, Garden Centre Manager, Coblands Garden Centre.

In light of the lockdown, Coblands Garden Centre started up a free local delivery service to customers within 10 miles of the centre and offer it free on orders over £30. A click and collect car park service was also launched for customers wishing to get out but still requiring contactless shopping.

Customers can email judith.kerr-sheppard@ coblandsgardencentre.co.uk with their orders or telephone 01959 561274.

Coblands Garden Centre are also working very closely with British growers and nurseries and have launched a “Best of British” campaign to support UK growers. Coblands Garden Centre are proud to support UK growers and other UK suppliers such as Burgon & Ball and Apta pots. The centre feels that it is now more important than ever to support home grown produce.

Coblands Garden Centre have lots of fresh UK grown stock arriving every week and updates can be found on their Facebook page. Customers can also sign up to receive weekly emails at coblandsgardencentre.co.uk.

Coblands Garden Centre also have a huge pot range from UK suppliers for customers to browse with many statement pots and planters to fit any style garden or plant. The team can deliver the pots locally so customers do not have to worry about fitting them in their cars.

The team at Coblands Garden Centre are on hand to give you the best help, advice and inspiration.

So, pop along and see your local friendly Coblands Garden Centre team for a selection of great quality plants grown in the UK. There’s something for everyone at Coblands Garden Centre.

We are delighted that we can welcome customers back into our centre

THE DETAILS Coblands Garden Centre For more information please visit www.coblandsgardencentre.co.uk, call 01959 561274 or follow Coblands Garden Centre on social media: Facebook: Coblands Garden Centre Twitter: @Coblands_Plants Instagram: coblands_garden_centre

At Coblands Garden Centre, we are proud to support UK Growers and Nurseries. We source direct from UK Growers buying great quality plants for you.

Celebrating

THE BEST OF BRITISH Proud to Support UK Growers

At this time, it is even more important to Buy British and Support our Local Growers and UK Nurseries.

Summertime Favourites

Hydrangea including the RHS Chelsea flower show winner 2016 ‘Runaway Bride’ £27.99

Ferns – 2ltr including Bronze Shield and Harts Tongue from £7.99

Dahlia – 3ltr including Pom Pom Berlin, Geneva and Cactus Park Princess £9.99

Hosta – 2ltr from £7.99

Buddleja – 3ltr from £11.99

Astilbe – 2ltr from £7.99

Dryhill Lane, Sundridge, Sevenoaks, Kent TN14 6AA Tel: 01959 561274 coblandsgardencentre.co.uk Please look on our website or Facebook page for regular updates during this time. All prices correct at time of going to press. While stocks last.

HOME RENOVATION RENOVATION HOME

The value of sWimming finding your best self with origin

O

rigin knows that a swimming pool can not only add value to your home but to your home life as well. Swimming remains one of the most popular activities across the country, with its physical and mental health benefits exceeding expectation.

In fact, a recent SwimEngland study found that those who swim regularly felt on average 12 years younger than those that don’t. The movement of water over your body creates a massaging sensation which encourages you to relax, just being in water increases blood flow to the brain, boosting your brain health, releasing endorphins and increasing your overall mood. For anyone wanting to take the plunge with the ultimate home life improvement, there are some key points to consider.

What are the benefits?

“Health is a state of body, wellness is a state of mind” Swimming has many benefits, as well as the obvious it improves quality of sleep and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression. Origin believes owning a pool is about more than the pool 5 UN 6 84 JJ U N EE 220 02 20 0

“health is a state of body, wellness is a state of mind”

itself, by adding a spa, sauna or yoga room your swimming pool and pool house could be a centre of wellness. If you’re looking to increase family time, your pool house could become a new social hub for everyone to enjoy by adding a gym, lounge area or even a bar. Whilst jumping in can seem daunting, making the decision can bring measurable benefits.

A new pool from Origin provides new ways of having fun, spending precious time together as a family, even making a staycation more appealing.

Can it be eco friendly?

If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of the pool or simply want to lower running costs, eco models are available. The ‘Eco-Swim’ range incorporates the very latest building materials for energy efficiency and provides you with a host of options to lessen your carbon footprint. There are plenty of small changes you can make that can have a big impact, many of them saving you money in the future. Whether you want to add an insulated pool cover or air source heat pumps, Origin will work with you to create the pool that you want.

The DeTails

Why origin?

It’s simple, Origin does it all. Building pools is a specialised field, it’s unlike any other building project and requires a holistic approach with all the key elements working together from the beginning.

Origin has all the design and engineering expertise necessary and manage the whole building process for you, from initial concept, planning and design to completion and beyond, eliminating the need for you to employ separate companies. Access to a pool right on your doorstep means it’s easy to swim everyday in the privacy of your own home, either to maintain a healthy lifestyle or simply as a space to relax. Origin have been building award winning swimming pools for over 40 years and in that time have successfully completed thousands of pools and pool houses to a wide range of specifications.

Whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor, wellness or fun, Origin has experienced it all and are available to help you create your home pool managing every stage from start to finish, giving you the confidence and freedom to enjoy finally swimming in your own home.

To speak to the experts at Origin Leisure call 01895 823366 now or visit www.originpools.co.uk for more information and to subscribe to our newsletter.

J UEN E JUN 2 022002 06 55 9

LILLEY’S

BATHROOMS

HOME RENOVATION

EXTENDING YOUR HOME

F

or a lot of households, there comes a time when your home becomes a bit of a squeeze. Maybe you have had more children, or have embarked on working from home. So should you move somewhere bigger, or extend your house to make it large enough for you and your family’s needs?

An extension can radically improve a property.

Bigger, better space and extra rooms can add value, and make a house more attractive to buyers.

Your location, and the level of demand for your type of home, could make a big difference to the financial implications of extending versus moving.

In high-value affluent areas in London it can be more worthwhile digging under the house to add a basement conversion, go up a level or even extend sideways. The reality is that if you are able to extend, it is often sensible to do so from a financial point of view. The cost of buying a new house would far outweigh the cost of building.

If you want to make structural changes with the purpose of adding value, you should first find out the current market price of your property, as well as its potential value once the changes have been made. Otherwise, your hard work and cash may not reap rewards.

Also be area aware - before you plan that extravagant extension or costly conversion, it’s crucial to talk to a local estate agent to find out what renovations are popular in your area. Every street has a ceiling value so don’t over develop if you want to see a good return on your investment.

However, this is a major project and shouldn’t be undertaken lightly: • Call in professionals to get the job done properly, as there are important planning restrictions and regulations which need to be followed.

• Ask friends if they can recommend an architect and builders. It is really important that you locate the specialists as a botched extension can devalue a property.

• The National Federation of Builders (NFB) can provide you with a list of registered builders in

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your area. A builder that belongs to a respected trade organisation will have to comply with membership standards.

• The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) provides a list of registered architects.

• Although a modern extension can look good on an old house, when it comes to selling on it is important to appeal to the average buyer’s taste.

Therefore it is advisable for an extension to match the architectural style of the existing house.

• Be strategic: Extra bathrooms and large kitchens are usually good investments in family-sized homes, and a garage in a busy, urban area will also add value.

The room that usually benefits the most from enlarging is the kitchen. Adding a kitchen/ diner creates the farmhouse kitchen most people want and provides extra space. The old dining room can become an office, playroom, or an extra sitting room. Kitchen extensions also provide the opportunity to extend upwards - an additional bedroom can be built on top at the same time.

“Your location, and the level of demand for your type of home, could make a big difference to the financial implications of extending versus moving”

HOME RENOVATION

ADDING VALUE TO YOUR HOME The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company on helping you to create time for what matters to you.

H

appily feeling on holiday all year roundat home is many people’s dream!

Relaxation and wellbeing without the travelling.

Just imagine your own traditional or infrared sauna, relaxing spa hot tub with Dream Scents, having the option of a Hydropool Aquatic gym work-equipped swim spa (even in a wet suit) outside or under a new structure…..or maybe even a tiled steam room!

Hydropool’s Aquatic Cross Training Programs Guide for your chosen swim spa gets you into the perfect shape to get on with life feeling Good!

Any or many of these wellness products are well within many people’s spectrum of possibilities, especially at 0 per cent APR, and they will definitely add value to your home.

You might think, “But I might want to take it/them with me if I move house, will that be possible?”

Our experienced builders will expertly lay the level base for your new hot tub or swim spa, and with a portable steps system, moving it at a later date ready to transport elsewhere is usually possible, subject to the crane still having access without huge obstructions!

All will become clear at your booked site survey!

Maybe you’ve been missing going to the gym, but not the peak time parking challenge! For enthusiastic swimmers, the Hydropool range of of swim spas from 14-19 feet long, or the 12’ Aqua Play will fulfil anyone’s wish list.

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The Aquatic Cross Training guide takes you through so many choices, from beginners exercises in warm water, focussing on improving your balance and mobility, while toning muscles and increasing aerobic fitness.

The workout is perfect for someone who is returning to exercise, or for seniors looking to stay active. For the more capable and energetic adults and youngsters, enjoy looking at the Aquatic Cross Training Programs Guide, which also shows you the excellent range of in-swim spa gym equipment available to you. Happy days! Go on, spoil yourself, and enjoy life with Wellness, and the knowledge that your home’s value has increased! Just buy the best.

Leave the rest.

A swim spa gets you into the perfect shape to get on with life feeling Good

THE DETAILS The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company Visit www.hottub-swimspa.com for further details

European Hot Tub & Swim Spa Retailer of the Year European Hot Tub & Swim Spa Retailer of the Year

Ruxley Manor Garden Centre

Maidstone Road, Sidcup, Ruxley Manor Garden Centre Kent, DA14 5BQ Maidstone Road, Sidcup, Kent, DA14 5BQ T: 0208 300 4003

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UK Award Winning Engineers

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HOME RENOVATION

[nEWs]

INTERIORS

cONTEmPORARY cORNERS

A contemporary corner sofa is perfect for open-plan living and relaxed spaces. Designer sofa specialists Darlings of Chelsea have a selection of new corner sofas available in a variety of styles, fabrics and colourways to suit your dĂŠcor.

The Norton Corner Sofa offers a wide range of fabrics and allows you customize your inclusive scatter cushions in complimentary fabrics if you wish to make this chair truly your own. Style with minimal accessories and soft hues to inject class and comfort into your living room. www.darlingsofchelsea.co.uk

uNIquE & STRIkING

MY Furniture’s striking new Papillon range takes inspiration from the highly collectable, bespoke American furniture of the 1960s. Each piece is unique and has its own individual character, designed using eyecatching Macassar Ebony veneer applied to solid ash. www.my-furniture.com

fuN & fuNcTIONAL

London based Mint & May puts the fun into functional with its range of unique and funky homewares.

From decorative items to home bar accessories, the Mint & May website is packed with gift ideas. www.mintandmay.co.uk 72 JUNE 2020

fRENcH fANcY

LuXE STYLE

Tap into luxe style with the Helena range from Living it Up. A classic yet unique design, ideal for contemporary and glamorous interior spaces. The Helena sofa is a classically Art Deco designed sofa. Featuring a large back and narrow arms, there will be plenty of space for all the family to enjoy a big night in. www.livingitup.co.uk

The French Bedroom Company collections of French furniture, contemporary lighting and quirky accessories are for those who want a bit of sassy French style in their bedroom. Born out of a fascination of French designs, textures, craftsmanship, heritage, and history, the collections are fun and feminine - with quality at the core. Beautifully made French designs combine with quirky and contemporary lighting and accessories to create interiors that are eye-catching, elegant, inspiring, chic and most importantly, unique! www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

Kitchens, bedrooms and studies.

Handmade at our Tonbridge workshop.

Unit 8, Tannery Road Tonbridge, TN9 1RF

HOME RENOVATION

[NEWS]

OUTDOOR LIVING enGliSH BeauTy

In the glow of the soft summer sunshine, the spread of a blanket is an invitation to be outdoors, and as we get accustomed to living our life within close proximity to our home, the back garden has become a refuge and this picnic blanket, a place of retreat and comfort.

We love “The English Garden” collection of picnic blankets from Heating & Plumbing London. www.heating-and-plumbing.com

Give your Garden a luxe makeover

Give your garden that makeover it deserves with a variety of products from luxury lifestyle emporium Cuckooland.

As summer is fast approaching, you may be thinking about turning your back garden into a holiday home for the season.

The unique shape of the Garden Wheel Bench offers plenty of shade and shelter in your garden. Fabulously designed by Ornate Garden, this garden bench is truly one of a kind - ideally place it against a wall, fence or as a stand alone picnic bench, it is sure to make a statement wherever it is. www.cuckooland.com

unique & STrikinG

Stone Globe Lights are decorative stone-like spheres that light up at night, offering a unique lighting solution for garden walls and terraces, paths and flower beds. Now, in time for summer 2020, they are available with a simple cable pack and transformer that can be plugged into a standard weatherproof outdoor socket meaning anyone can install them at home – no electrician, no fuss! www.stoneglobelights.co.uk

Halo, noT HaloGen

Ditch your halogen flood lights and give your garden some drama with these Halo miniature tier lights from LuxR. Precision machined in marine grade 316 stainless steel, copper or powdercoated aluminium, they produce a downward 360 degree wash without any glare. Perfect for shrubs, paths and planters. www.brand-designs.com 74 JUNE 2020

fire up THe BBq

Annabel James is an on line boutique selling home and garden accessories and gorgeous gifts, beautifully wrapped and delivered.

We love this gorgeously presented in a chic khaki canvas carrying case with handles. The set includes a two-pronged fork, a spatula, basting brush and tongs to enjoy the perfect party with friends and family.

Stainless steel and wood. www.annabeljames.co.uk

It’s time for the kitchen you’ve always wanted

www.hammertons.co.uk 01435 868611

Sunset Farm • Heathfield Road Cross in Hand • TN21 0UJ

HOME RENOVATION

AN INTRODUCTION TO RESIN BOUND SURFACING THE MOST VERSATILE SURFACE

T

he ‘Resin Bound’ surface is a striking improvement on other older surfaces like block paving. For instance, Resin Bound is low maintenance which means you won’t have to be outside weeding your driveway constantly.

It is also permeable which means no puddling. It is a smart new way to revitalise your driveway, path or patio.

Enviro-Tech Resin Systems Ltd is a local family run business, and we have been installing ‘Resin Bound’ for over 10 years and have been asked to install in many prestigious places over the years, including The royal Botanical Gardens @Kew. Both Owners of Enviro-Tech have been in the Resin industry for over 20 years and their knowledge on the subject is second to none.

The Resin Bound Surface has become increasingly popular over the past 6-7 years. If you are entertaining the idea of freshening up your driveway you can find out more by visiting www.enviro-tech-resin-systems.com.

As our business is primarily conducted outdoors we are able to carry out our work with very little to no interaction with our clientele. We have been working through this current situation without any interruption. You can contact us on 01825 890973.

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It is a smart new way to revitalise your driveway, path or patio

HOME RENOVATION

Do you own a conservatory not fit for purpose?

T

here are literally many 1000’s of home owners throughout the UK who own a conservatory, it is without doubt that a high majority are totally inefficient during the summer and winter months.

Is this you, do you own a conservatory that is really not fit for purpose?

A high number of conservatories installed during the late 80’s, 90’s and early 2000’s will have a polycarbonate roof. A roof with no insulation value and virtually zero protection from direct sunlight.

This gives you a room which is far too hot during summer and has a fridge effect in winter. You also have a roof which is difficult to keep clean as well as being a haven for insects.

The frustrating thing for many owners is that the conservatories are in a satisfactory condition, all double glazed with many years of life to offer. More and more home owners are opting to have a more thermally efficient roof installed.

High-Tech have the perfect solution.

A very popular option is to create a thermally efficient sky room by removing the existing roof. A timber frame roof will be constructed to building regulation standard. Timber joists are then reinforced to accept a glass lantern or flat roof light.

Treated timber boarding and warm roof insulation is fitted along with new external UPVC roof line and guttering products. It is then made permanently water tight with our lifetime guaranteed flat roof system.

The glass roof light is installed. Followed by

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internal installation of a new conventional plaster board ceiling along with lighting etc. The ceiling is plastered ready for painting. Thus, giving you a beautiful sky room orangery, oozing natural light.

High-Tech will always remove the existing roof and comply with building regulations.

High-Tech will create a luxurious living space.

There are tiled roof conversions creating a more closed in style of room with no or limited natural light. An orangery style sky room with a glass lantern or sky light will not only offer the WOW factor, it will also give all the natural light required.

Bring your conservatory back to life, add value to your home and enjoy the comforts. High-Tech offer very completive funding options along with interest free credit. Terms & Conditions available on request.

We will be delighted to welcome you at our showroom located in Leigh-on-sea. This gives us the opportunity to show you first hand our superb Lifetime Guaranteed flat roofing systems. We have a variety of displays showing the glass skylights and roof lanterns offering the opportunity to view everything before you buy. We welcome you come and visit us at 850 London road, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex SS9 3NQ. Our opening hours are Monday to Friday 9:30am till 4:30pm and Saturday 10am till 2pm. However, we do offer a service whereby we will open upon request outside of opening hours.

Always 100% committed to customer care and satisfaction. www.flatroofs.net

SPECIAL OFFER Take advantage of our early spring sale, save £600.00 today on all conservatory and extension make overs. We are pleased to announce we are stretching our discounts for the retired to include ex forces and NHS staff.

There are limited late spring and early summer installation dates still available making it a great time to replace your conservatory roof with High-Tech.

HOME RENOVATION

Your Perfect Bathroom

H

ere at H. Lilley we have a long history of supplying quality products and quality service; our team of staff have decades of knowledge and experience to take you from the daunting idea of designing your bathroom to the completed article. We have a team of installers so we can look after your entire project supplying and installing your bathroom with global market leading brands and the very highest quality products.

Using the award-winning software supplier Virtual Worlds ÂŽ which allows us to take your bathroom dimensions and produce realistic images of your bathroom; we can change the design to ensure full use of space, making it easier for you to achieve the perfect bathroom. Some of our larger designs incorporate a free-standing bath,

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his and hers basins and a large walk in shower.

Smaller designs can consist of toilet under the stair conversions complete with a basin and basin unit.

We offer all services from the “I know exactly what I want” client to the “not so sure” client.

The design services that we offer are “Essentials”, “Inspirational”, and “Project”. Each of these design options can be tailored to your needs and bathroom space. A quick overview of each

“We offer all services from the “I know exactly what I want” client to the “not so sure” client”

the worry out of the bathroom.

If you are interested in any of these services come along to either our Eltham or Biggin Hill branch. With 19 bathroom displays at our Eltham branch and 12 displays at our Biggin Hill branch; which are updated every twelve months to make sure we have the latest products on display; we are sure you will find inspiration for your new bathroom.

“There is nothing more satisfying for me and my team than to be happy in the knowledge that your bathroom is exactly what you wanted even if you didn’t know what you wanted to start with.” – Kristjan Lilley (Company Director) “My favourite part of the job is building a relationship with the client and understanding their individual needs. To see a finished bathroom and a customer that is happy with their vision that has come to life is what makes it all worthwhile.”

– Ben Sambrook (Bathroom Designer) www.hlilleyelectricalandplumbing.co.uk

• “Essentials” – You select your bathroom goods from the catalogue and we provide the design and quotation.

• “Inspirational” – With this service we would get together with you to discuss the design requirements and come back with two or three designs and quotations within your budget.

• “Project” – This is our best service where we would measure up the project space by coming to the location. Then with one of our selected plumbers we would handle the entire project from design to installation to the highest standard. Taking JUNE 2020 81

Suppliers of high quality Kitchens

108 Orchard Rise West, Sidcup, Kent. DA15 8SZ Phone: 020 8859 8031 | Mobile: 07957 560 413 | Email: info@bakerskitchens.co.uk www.bakerskitchens.co.uk

Has the lockdown helped you to make up your mind?

Our family team can help you navigate the issues you’re facing in your relationship and advise you on your best options

To find out more contact Claire Schneck claire.schneck@cwj.co.uk

01689 323040 www.cwj.co.uk

Designed for living At Stoneham, the values we’ve been building into our bespoke kitchens for the last 150 years haven’t changed.

Every hand-built Stoneham kitchen fulfils its own streamlined elegance both effortlessly and exquisitely. It’s about making the very best of the best – the finest woods and natural materials, the most innovative features and latest technology, supremely crafted by the most knowing and capable hands. Appointed kitchen centres available locally and nationwide. For a colour brochure and details of the Centre most convenient to you call 020 8300 8181 or visit:

www.stoneham-kitchens.co.uk

Stoneham plc, Powerscroft Road, Sidcup, Kent DA14 5DZ. Factory Showroom Opening: Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 12 midday.