Life Magazines (Kent Editions) May 2022

Creatively Designed | Locally Handcrafted | Uniquely Bespoke

FEEL LIKE A CHEF EVERY TIME YOU COOK.

ALL-IN-ONE CHARCOAL OVEN, SMOKER, PIZZA OVEN & BBQ.

An amazing innovation in outdoor cooking that t akes ever y thing you cook to a whole new level.

Inspired by the charcoal ovens which are the secret of top professional kitchens, the Charlie oven makes it ef for tless to create truly incredible f lavours.

Whatever the food, whatever the occasion, whatever the season.

B E S P O K E

O U T D O O R

O V E N S

w w w.charlieoven.com

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

WELCOME

TO OUR

APRIL ISSUE THE TEAM

Have you suffered because of a clinical treatment that went wrong?

Have medical professionals misdiagnosed, misinformed, made a mistake during a procedure or administered the wrong drugs for you?

Accidents happen, but if you’ve been affected by any of the above, Thomas Dunton Solicitors LLP may be able to help.

EDITOR Faye Manning ••••• EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Katie Miller ••••• SUB EDITOR Ben Jones ••••• FASHION EDITOR Lewis Casserley SALES Tim Lees ••••• ACCOUNTS Kathy Manning Andree Georgiou ••••• DIRECTORS Rory Smith Patrick Smith ••••• DESIGN & PRODUCTION Bob Ambrose

We have been standing up for people’s legal rights when life hasn’t gone according to plan, for over 40 years.

217–219 High Street, Orpington, Kent BR6 0NZ

Freephone 0800 146340 accident@thomasdunton.co.uk

www.injuryadvicelawyer.co.uk Thomas Dunton Solicitors LLP is a limited liability partnership. Reg. No. OC432925.

PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD

17, The Broadway, Old Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 5HZ, UK 0844 800 8439 www.thelifemagazines.com © All Rights Reserved. Life Magazines are copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any form either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers. Whilst Fish Media Group Ltd. takes every reasonable precaution, no responsibility can be accepted for any property, services or products offered in these publications and any loss arising therefrom. Whilst every care is taken with all materials submitted to Life Magazines, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for the loss or damage to such material. Fish Media Group Ltd. reserves the right to reject or accept any advertisement, article or material prior to publication. Opinions expressed are strictly those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of Fish Media Group Ltd. We accept no liability for any mistakes and no responsibility can be taken for the content of these pages.

OUT & ABOUT – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – I M A G E : O U T D O O R T H E AT R E AT E M M E T T S G A R D E N

OUT & ABOUT

24 JUNE TEXAS Following the release of their acclaimed new single ‘Hi’ earlier this year, everyone’s favourite Scottish rock band, Texas, have announced that their UK tour has been rescheduled to 2022.

Formed in 1986 by the undeniably brilliant Sharleen Spiteri and her partner in crime, Johnny McElhone, Texas have made consistently great music. Throughout their stellar career, they have sold over 40 million records, had 13 top ten UK singles, 3 #1 UK albums and 8 top ten UK albums including their latest ‘Jump On Board’.

For over 30 years, Texas have proved themselves to be one of Scotland’s best ever bands and nothing short of a national treasure south of the border.

Winter Gardens, Margate, Kent CT9 1HX

[EVENTS]

THE CALENDAR 1 JUNE FROM THE JAM UNPLUGGED From The Jam is a chance to catch Bruce Foxton and Russell Hastings up close performing acoustic interpretations of classics and fan favourites by The Jam such as Town Called Malice, Start!, Liza Radley, The Butterfly Collector, Down In The Tube Station At Midnight and many more.

Glassbox Theatre, Gillingham, Kent ME7 1FN

21 MAY MODS MATDAY 2022 Dreamland will host the 2022 Mods Mayday tour with some of the best live bands from the Mod scene along with stalls, visuals and DJ’s for the most essential day in the Mod calender. Live acts confirmed so far include: KENNEY JONES of The Who, Faces and Small Faces.

SECRET AFFAIR PURPLE HEARTS II THE TRUTH THE CHORDS UK SQUIRE Dreamland, Margate, Kent CT9 1XJ

1 4 M AY 2 0 2 2

12 JUNE

20 MAY GO WEST AND PAUL YOUNG Hitting the road on a double bill tour, these two heavyweight chart toppers will be performing all their hits on a bumper bill of nostalgic pop! Celebrating 35 years, Go West were one of the most successful singer/songwriter duos of the 80’s. Formed in 1982 by Peter Cox and Richard Drummie, they produced hits such as ‘We Close Our Eyes’, ‘Call Me’ and ‘Don’t Look Down’ . Go West were voted Best Newcomer at the 1986 Brit Awards. In 1990 their track ‘King of Wishful Thinking’ featured on the hugely successful soundtrack for the blockbuster smash Pretty Woman.

Winter Gardens, Margate, Kent CT9 1HX

CHEVENING OPEN GARDEN FOR NGS The pleasure grounds of the Earls Stanhope at Chevening House are today characterised by lawns and wooded walks around an ornamental lake.

First laid out between 1690 and 1720 in the French formal style, in the 1770s a more informal English design was introduced Chevening, nr Sevenoaks, Kent TN14 6HG

28 MAY THE SOUNDCRASH FUNK AND SOUL WEEKENDER The Soundcrash Funk and Soul Weekender.

Artists performing: Sister Sledge, George Clinton, Roy Ayers, Craig Charles, Gilles Peterson, David Rodigan, Norman Jay, The Allergies. Tickets avaiable.

Dreamland, Margate, Kent CT9 1XJ

ALL YEAR CHARTWELL

15 MAY MARTY WILDE LIVE - DARTFORD National UK treasure and original pop icon, Marty Wilde*, made music history last year, when he became the first ever UK music artist to achieve x8 consecutive decades of success as a UK singer/songwriter. Now, 50 years since he was topping the charts, this history-making 1950s heart-throb, proves that music never dies.

Home Gardens, Dartford, Kent DA1 1ED

Chartwell’s hillside gardens reflect his love of landscape and nature. They include the lakes he created, the kitchen garden and the Marycot, a playhouse designed for his youngest daughter Mary. Beyond the gardens there is expansive woodland with looped trails and natural play areas.

Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent, TN16 1PS

M AY 2 0 2 2 1 5

28-29 MAY TONBRIDGE FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL

27-29 MAY

THE ROSÉ FESTIVAL An exciting new concept, The Rosé Festival, is coming to the Gardens of Fulham Palace in London, SW6. The festival will celebrate all things rosé, food, music with special guests throughout the weekend, and is set to kick off the Summer season in true style. Throughout the long weekend you can enjoy samplings from over 40 rosé producers from around the world, with brands including Mirabeau and Léoube.

For tickets visit: therosefestival.seetickets.com/tour/the-rose-festival

Fire up your taste buds at this year’s fabulous Tonbridge Food & Drink Festival in the town’s beautiful castle grounds close to the banks of the picturesque River Medway. Try, taste and buy from more than 70 stallholders selling a delicious range of food and drink produced in and around Kent and from across the globe.

Tonbridge Castle Kent TN9 1BG

25-26 MAY DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE 2022 Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for all the family.

Grab your compass and join our intrepid explorer across uncharted territories to discover a prehistoric world of astonishing (and remarkably lifelike) dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child’s favourite flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Microraptor and Segnosaurus!

Winter Gardens, Margate, Kent CT9 1HX

ALL YEAR

PETTS WOOD AND HAWKWOOD

12 MAY SCOTT BRADLEE’S POSTMODERN JUKEBOX What started as an internet sensation is now traveling the globe, playing the modern hits of the day and reworking them into much-loved vintage music genres, especially Swing and Jazz.

The musical collective was formed by Scott Bradlee in 2010, following the viral success of his video ‘A Motown Tribute to Nickelback’.

Winter Gardens, Margate, Kent CT9 1HX 1 6 M AY 2 0 2 2

An oasis of peace and tranquillity only 13 miles southeast from the centre of London Full of natural history, the area is a haven for all kinds of bird, butterfly, amphibian and plant life. The Hawkwood Estate and the remainder of the woodland was donated in 1957, with the entire estate now covering 136 hectares or 338 acres.

Chislehurst, Kent, BR5 1NZ

OUT & ABOUT

OUTDOOR THEATRE

at Emmetts Garden this summer

This summer theatre is heading back to Emmetts Garden with three outdoor shows!

I

mmerse yourself in stories all performed outside on the meadow, with something for everyone.

Early booking is recommended as tickets sell fast.

The Secret Garden; Saturday 11 June, 2.30pm New to Emmetts Garden this year, join New Creations Collective with their performance of The Secret Garden. Join Mary on her journey to discovering The Secret Garden in this family-friendly, dance adaptation of the best-selling novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett.

Performed by an accomplished cast of dancers and musicians, the iconic story is brought to life like never before, in this high-quality, one-hour ballet. With a brand-new score and original choreography, The Secret Garden offers an enchanting, unforgettable experience for adults and children alike.

Tickets are £16 for Adults and £8 for children.

As You Like It; Thursday 11 August, 7pm Following last year’s hugely successful tour of Macbeth, The Lord Chamberlain’s Men, return with a joyous and celebratory production of Shakespeare’s As You Like It. Separately, Rosalind and her dear friend Celia, the noble Orlando, and the usurped Duke Senior and his courtiers get banished and set up new lives in the Forest of Arden. Free from the constraints of their former lives lovers tussle, wits and fools spar, familial bonds are challenged, and everyone wrestles with what it really means to be yourself.

Tickets are £17 for adults and £10 for children.

1 8 M AY 2 0 2 2

Rapunzel; Tuesday 23 August, 4pm Join Immersion Theatre for their production of Rapunzel at Emmetts Garden; the perfect treat for the whole family! Let your hair down and get tangled in a brand-new musical adaptation of the classic fairy tale, as Immersion Theatre proudly presents a witty, pantomimic, tongue-in-cheek retelling of the family favourite. Complete with a laugh out loud script, a host of catchy songs, heaps of audience interaction, and an exciting array of larger-than-life characters, this is one hair-raising adventure your family won’t want to miss!

Tickets are £14 for adults and £9 for children with family discount tickets available too.

Find out more and buy tickets for all three of these wonderful shows here: www.nationaltrust.org. uk/emmetts-garden/features/outdoor-theatre-atemmetts-garden-this-summer

“Immerse yourself in stories all performed outside on the meadow, with something for everyone”

THE DETAILS Emmetts Garden Ide Hill, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN14 6BA www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ emmetts-garden

OUT & ABOUT

The perfect place to say ‘I Do’ Falling in love with an old Kent barn launched a multi-award winning wedding venue.

T

he Old Kent Barn is nestled in the beautiful Kent countryside between Folkestone and Canterbury in the village of Swingfield. The Old Barn is over 250 years old, also known as Smersole Farm. The barn was formerly used to house cattle and hay as late as the early 1990’s. In the original construction of the Old Barn it’s numerous oak beams were taken from old sailing ships, the bowed aged beams add a wonderful character to the building.

After falling in love with the Old barn it was bought by the Simmonds Family in 1996. After renovating they ran their graphic design business from the barn until 2004. The business was moved to a new site and the family then turned the Old Barn into a three-bedroom Bed and Breakfast.

Following the wedding reception in the grounds of the old barn of their daughter Claire and son in law Will in 2005, the family came up with the idea to launch The Old Kent Barn Weddings.

The family created the formal parterres, established the planting and pathways, and laid the paved ceremony area before their first wedding in 2006.

In the original construction of the Old Barn it’s numerous oak beams were taken from old sailing ships, the bowed aged beams add a wonderful character to the building.

THE DETAILS The Old Kent Barn Smersole Farm, Swingfield Kent CT15 7HF T: 01303 844 270 E: events@theoldkentbarn.co.uk www.theoldkentbarn.co.uk 2 0 M AY 2 0 2 2

For the first four years wedding receptions were held in a luxury marquee in the grounds, The Old Barn used for onsite accomodation for couples following their wedding.

Wanting to host weddings year-round it was decided to build a purpose-built tithe barn. In the closing days of the tender, local timber specialists Norton Timber, tendered and submitted plans in only 7 days, the partners unanimously agreed on the design we have today. Building began in late 2010 with a deadline of only 6 months to be complete for upcoming weddings, no expense was spared in the design and creation. The new barn hosted its first wedding in April 2011.

The Old Kent Barn, now in it’s 17th year, after pausing in 2020 saw the return of weddings without restrictions in July 2021.

2022 will be the busiest year in the barn’s history hosting 180 weddings. Led by Claire and Will the barn have a passionate team of staff dedicated to making it the perfect place to say ‘I Do’

OUT & ABOUT

COMING SOON AT

TRINITY THEATRE

Trinity is recognised as a vibrant cultural hub situated in the heart of Tunbridge Wells, offering a varied seasonal programme, inspiring all age groups with our vision leading on enriching lives and promoting cultural togetherness.

NT Live: Straight Line Crazy 26th May · 7pm £17+ Ralph Fiennes (Antony & Cleopatra) leads the cast in David Hare’s (Skylight) blazing account of the most powerful man in New York, a master manipulator whose legacy changed the city forever. Faced with resistance by protest groups campaigning for a very different idea of what the city should become, will the weakness of democracy be exposed in the face of his charismatic conviction?

Broadcast live from the Bridge Theatre in London, Nicholas Hytner directs this exhilarating new play.

‘Another acting triumph from Fiennes’ The Guardian

DRACULA The Bloody Truth 30th May 8pm £12 Travelling across Europe, from the dark and sinister Transylvanian mountains to the charming seaside town of Whitby, Professor Van Helsing and his six amateur actors stage a life-changing, theatrical production of Dracula – hoping to establish, once and for all, the bloody truth. “Bloody marvellous! Talented cast! Wonderful production!” Audience reaction.

Cinema:The Outfit 24th May · 8pm £11+ From the Academy Award- winning writer of The Imitation Game (Graham Moore) comes The Outfit, a gripping and masterful thriller in which an expert tailor (Academy Award winner Mark Rylance) must outwit a dangerous group of mobsters in order to survive.

Superstition Mountain 25th May · 8pm £16+ What will become of three proper Cornish boys in the wilds of Arizona? Will their private Gold Rush lead to fortune or failure? And will they live to tell the tale…?

Part epic adventure, part family saga, at the heart of Carl Grose’s black comedy are the emotional ties and trials of three brothers, rubbing along together through thick and thin.

‘Charismatic storytelling that stirs the imagination’ The Guardian Trinity Theatre, Church Road, Tunbridge Wells Kent, TN1 1JP | Box Office: 01892 678 678 | www.trinitytheatre.net

2 2 M AY 2 0 2 2

by

e t e B t e v a N e L d n a n o s l o h c i N n h Jo

OUT & ABOUT

World-renowned, glamorous and quintessentially British..

RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW PREVIEW

T

24 - 28 May 2022

he greatest flower show on earth returns to Royal Hospital Chelsea with stunning garden designs, gorgeous floral displays and endless shopping.

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) can also reveal an exciting new headline sponsor, The Newt in Somerset.

RHS has revealed the garden line-up for 2022, from the very best garden designers gathering to showcase cutting-edge design and ideas with inspiration, colour and innovation. Expect to be dazzled with seasonal plants and colours not seen in May since 2019.

2022 SHOW GARDENS INCLUDE: • The Mind Garden - designed by Andy Sturgeon, built by Crocus. Inspiring us to connect with each other for our mental health. When we are struggling, sharing what we’re going through can change everything, which is why The Mind Garden is designed to be a place for people to connect, be themselves and open up.

The New Blue Peter Garden – designed by Juliet Sargeant., built by Gardenlink. In the BBC centenary year, its flagship children’s programme, Blue Peter is getting a new garden. The theme is

‘discover soil’ encouraging us to investigate the soil beneath our feet bringing it up to eye level for us to see, touch, smell and hear. After RHS Chelsea Flower Show, it will move to its permanent home at RHS Bridgewater in Manchester, where everyone can visit.

• The RAF Benevolent Fund Garden – designed

by John Everiss, built by Peter Gregory Landscapes and George Everiss Design. A stone spiral wall surrounds and protects the sculpture.

Enclosed within, a curved larch seat allows the visitor to look up at the pilot and imagine the view he would have seen. The RAF Benevolent Fund has been providing support to veterans, serving personnel and their families for over 100 years.

Its garden celebrates the help and protection the charity has continued to provide.

• The RNLI Garden - designed and built by Chris Beardshaw Ltd. A celebration of the history and modernity of this multi-faceted charity, which has been saving lives at sea for almost 200 years. Its design marries style hints from the organisation’s Georgian origins with contemporary design cues to reflect the forward-looking spirit of today’s Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

2022 SANCTUARY GARDENS INCLUDE: • A Garden Sanctuary by Hamptons - designed

by Tony Woods, built by Garden Club London.

Creating a space for garden living. In collaboration, Koto Design have created a carbon-neutral 2 4 M AY 2 0 2 2

The New Blue Peter Garden – designed by Juliet Sargeant., built by Gardenlink

garden cabin. The small, sculptural structure offers a place of seclusion and meditation, and an immersive space to connect with the surrounding power of nature and plants.

• The Boodles Travel Garden - designed by Thomas Hoblyn, built by The Garden Builders. 60 years ago, Anthony Wainwright, grandfather to the current chairman of Boodles travelled around the world in just 16 days. The Boodles Travel Garden celebrates this incredible endeavour with planting drawn from all corners of the world, creating a global garden, offering a calm sanctuary to rest and reflect on the journey.

• Out of the Shadows - designed and built by Kate Gould Gardens. designed to feel like a contemporary spa garden utilising hardy tropical planting to create a private, calm and relaxing space. Inspired by recent dark times, the garden is a safe haven for people to exercise and socialise in small groups, a space designed to revitalise both the body and mind.

paradise for every gardener! It’s also the place where RHS showcase the Sustainable Product of the Year and Plant of the Year. The Discovery Zone champions the latest exciting innovations and research from the world of horticulture. Explore interactive displays and educational exhibits in this dedicated space.

THE RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW EXPERIENCE Enjoy exclusive boutique shopping - from garden buildings and seating to jewellery, textiles, arts and crafts, there’s something to tempt everyone.

All around the showground, you’ll find a host of exhibitors, both new and established, selling their innovative and desirable horticultural-themed products.

Expect to be wowed with a mouth-watering array of food and drink available including glamorous restaurants including Jardin Blanc with Raymond Blanc plus cafes, food courts and picnic areas are perfect for a quick bite to eat.

For more details and to book tickets, visit rhs.org.uk/chelsea

“The Discovery Zone champions the latest exciting innovations and research from the world of horticulture”

Above: ; The RNLI Garden, Show Garden, designed by Chris Beardshaw

Houseplant Studios returns with more home inspiration after an incredibly popular debut in 2021.

THE GREAT PAVILION An oasis of colour and scents with some of the world’s finest growers and nurseries offering stunning displays, plants for sale and expert advice.

You will find plants and flowers of all varieties – a M AY 2 0 2 2 2 5

OUT & ABOUT

Building Elegance & Security

INTO RETIREMENT LIVING Osprey’s mission is to deliver Elegant Retirement Living to those who value their independence and want the opportunity to live full and active lives in comfort and security.

O

sprey believe our owners and tenants deserve comfort and the ability to lead a lifestyle that is right for them, mixing with people who share the same interests in a safe and secure environment.

The portfolio Osprey has an outstanding portfolio of retirement properties for sale or to let in Bromley, West Hampstead, Golders Green and Wiltshire. They are specialists in retirement homes, understanding the needs of those who want to experience Elegant Retirement Living, having had nearly 40 years’ experience in developing, owning, and managing retirement homes. The flats and cottages in the portfolio all have on-site staff, landscaped gardens and communal facilities to create a supportive and community atmosphere, whilst respecting the rights

of residents to live independent lives in the privacy of the homes they own or rent from us.

Peace of mind - services provided for your comfort.

Osprey was founded in 1984 to create retirement developments and to manage them to the highest standards. The company provides an integrated approach to Elegant Retirement Living, maintaining top quality levels of services and facilities. The aim is to create an ambience of elegance, community, comfort and security but where, above all, personal independence is totally respected. Osprey operates an efficient and pro-active property management and maintenance service, where the watchwords are transparency and consultation so that residents are clear about what is being spent and why. Osprey’s experience with the nuances of managing Elegant Retirement Living properties allows it to optimise service delivery so that service charge levies are tightly managed to ensure residents get value for money. Likewise, Osprey’s expertise in managing all aspects of the property ensures that its developments are well maintained and presented.

Look around!

Challoner Court, Heathside, Osprey Court, Regency House, and Town Mill, all designed with the requirements of the modern world in mind… your comfort is our priority.

2 6 M AY 2 0 2 2

The company provides an integrated approach to Elegant Retirement Living, maintaining top quality levels of services and facilities.

FOR MORE DETAILS SEE www.ospreymc.co.uk

OSPREY – RETIREMENT LIVING

An excellent opportunity has arisen in Challoner Court!

Flat 17, Challoner Court one bedroom flat for sale Bromley BR2 OAB

ü ü ü

One Bedroom RETIREMENT flat

ü ü ü ü

Substantial balcony

Entrance Hall Large open plan reception room and kitchen with modern appliances Refurbished bathroom with walk-in shower Resident House Manager Ample on-site parking Price

£240,000

Register your interest: Portfolio Manager / Lorraine Wash Tel:

www.ospreymc.co.uk

+44 (0) 20 8569 8364 Retirement Living

HOUT O U S& E ABOUT & GARDEN

SOPHIE ALLPORT UNVEILS NEW CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW DESIGN FOR 2022

B

ritish homewares and lifestyle brand Sophie Allport has unveiled her new Chelsea Flower Show design for 2022.

The beautiful floral design will appear on a fine bone china mug (standard and large) and tea towel, all making excellent Chelsea Flower Show souvenirs and memorabilia.

Sophie’s illustration of Chelsea Flower Show 2022 is filled with rows of beautiful irises, a magnificent sculpture and a pathway that leads through to the pavilion behind. Dragonflies, butterflies, and bumblebees dance through the sky, whilst the spectacular London parakeets sit proudly on the treetops. Dressed in iconic scarlets, cheerful Chelsea Pensioners enjoy the relaxed ambience of the tranquil grounds.

Last year was the first year that Sophie Allport launched a Chelsea Flower Show Tea Towel in recognition of the event, with both the Tea Towel and Mug being sell-out designs.

Sophie Allport has been

2 2 58 0 MMAAYY 22 00 22 22

attending Chelsea Flower Show since 2010 and last year won a four-star stand award. Held on the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, the show inspires hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world across five days. This year the event will be held from the 24th to the 28th of May 2022, making a return for the spring season as last year it was held in autumn due to COVID-19.

“I absolutely love Chelsea,” explained Sophie.

“It’s one of the highlights of our year. We love seeing all our customers, and as a keen gardener, I always look forward to seeing all the gardens and displays, which are so inspirational. I hope our mug and tea towel will make lovely souvenirs for visitors and remind them of their special day”.

‘Chelsea Flower Show 2022’ is written on the inside rim of every mug in Sophie’s distinctive handwriting, and features on her beautiful tea towel too.

Purchase from the Sophie Allport stand at Chelsea Flower Show (24th – 28th May) or from sophieallport.com.

“I always look forward to seeing all the gardens and displays, which are so inspirational”

SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE FROM TRUSTED EXPERTS ON DIVORCE AND SEPARATION Will new no fault legislation make divorce less confrontational?

Divorce doesn’t have to be acrimonious and the long-awaited arrival of no fault divorce in April should hopefully help. Couples will be able to avoid the time-consuming, confrontational and costly ‘blame game’ they had to go through under the old regime.

However, we all know that it can be an emotionally challenging experience and you will be grateful you chose the calm and authoritative support of our Law Society Accredited solicitors, guiding you through your options and by your side when it matters.

Whether your main concern is the welfare of children, obtaining a fair financial settlement or getting to grips with the whole divorce process, our family law experts can help you and your family.

We have offices in Bromley, Chislehurst and Sevenoaks and you can call us on 020 8464 4242 or email enquiries@wellerslawgroup.com to arrange a one hour fixed fee consultation, at a reduced rate, with a member of our family law team to discuss your situation and how we can help you.

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.

OUT & ABOUT

Sony Music & Trafalgar Releasing present

GEORGE MICHAEL, FREEDOM UNCUT His Final Work

Global cinema event, Wednesday, 22nd June 2022

S

ony Music Entertainment and Trafalgar Releasing have announced the premiere of GEORGE MICHAEL FREEDOM UNCUT, a deeply autobiographical feature documentary, narrated by the late Grammy® Award winner himself.

Throughout the 108 minutes film, George Michael reveals openly and honestly the two distinct sides of his life: his very public music career and his private personal life that cameras never truly saw. Michael was heavily involved in and dedicated to the making of this documentary before his tragic passing in 2016, making GEORGE MICHAEL FREEDOM UNCUT an incredibly special posthumous release and a poignant and moving tribute to his legacy.

The film delves into the turbulent period after “Faith” leading up to, during and after the making of his “Listen Without Prejudice: Vol 1” album in 1990. At this pivotal period of his life, Michael is able to fight for his artistic freedom and lead the way for others. He meets his first real love, Anselmo Feleppa and navigates both the heartbreak of Anselmo’s early tragic passing from an AIDS related illness and the devastating loss of

3 0 M AY 2 0 2 2

his mother. GEORGE MICHAEL FREEDOM UNCUT is also a brilliant reminder of Michael’s outstanding musical genius during the Wham! years and throughout his solo career. The film features timeless duets with George’s favourite artists and explores how he influenced the cultural landscape of his generation as one of the world’s best-selling artists of all time.

Interwoven with exclusive, personal archival footage, this year’s theatrical release includes neverseen-before footage from one of the most iconic videos in music history, “Freedom! ’90,” directed

by Oscar® nominated David Fincher. The music video has been recently remastered in 4K and will screen in full, ahead of the main feature in cinemas worldwide.

Contributors also include Stevie Wonder, Sir Elton John, Ricky Gervais, Nile Rogers, Mark Ronson, Liam Gallagher, Mary J. Blige, Jean Paul Gaultier, James Corden, Tony Bennett, Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington and Linda Evangelista.

Co-Producer and Director David Austin says, “The film is George’s final work. Narrated by George himself, it is the complete story.George Michael was an inspiring artist whose story deserves to be shared on the big screen globally.”

Details of participating countries and cinemas will be listed on georgemichaelfreedomuncut.com Sign-up for further information at georgemichaelfreedomuncut.com

Now serving clients in CHISLEHURST, BROMLEY & BECKENHAM

Our services include: Residential Property

Wills, Trusts, Probate and Inheritance Disputes

Family, Employment and Dispute Resolution

Commercial Property and Services for Businesses

6 West Street l Bromley l BR1 1JN

www.judge-priestley.co.uk

020 8290 0333

info@judge-priestley.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

ED SHEERAN MBE

To Headline Platinum Jubilee Concert

T

Sunday 5th June 2022

he historic concert will take place at the end of the four days celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee to mark the monarch’s 70 years on the throne.

A live television broadcast is estimated to be watched by one billion people worldwide, with hundreds of thousands lining The Mall to watch the concert live.

The concert will be amongst over 800 events running from Thursday 2nd June to Sunday 5th June. Events will include Trooping the Colour and a flypast on Thursday 2nd June, a service at St Paul’s Cathedral on Friday 3rd June and a Platinum Party at the Palace on Saturday 4th June.

The award-winning artist will perform at what will be a spectacular finale against the backdrop of Buckingham Palace. Other music legends including Sir Cliff Richard and Dame Shirley Bassey will also be taking to the stage. Other national treasures playing a part include Gary Lineker, Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean, Bill Bailey and Kate Moss.

The Platinum Jubilee Pageant will have a cast of 10,000 made up of 2,750 military personnel, 6,000 volunteers and our key workers.

Ed Sheeran, who was awarded an MBE in 2017 said: “I am looking forward to performing at The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pageant and proud to be part of the celebrations. It is going to be a great opportunity to bring everyone together.”

The Pageant will be the biggest festival for everything British since the Opening Ceremony of the 2012 Olympics. It will bring to life iconic

moments from The Queen’s historic 70-year reign with our glorious national anthem sung by a gospel choir with the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines.

A key goal of the Platinum Jubilee Pageant is to leave a legacy of hope for the future of the UK’s younger population, working with schools and youth organisations and groups to build skills for the future.

The government has announced they are moving forward with plans to let pubs stay open until 1am on 2nd, 3rd and 4th June.

The majority of the UK population will no doubt be celebrating in true British style and tradition in one form or another.

Image: Paul Kerrison

3 2 M AY 2 0 2 2

AN ADULTS’ ESCAPE...

Set on an enchanting private island in the pristine Lhaviyani Atoll in the Maldives, Hurawalhi Island Resort is much like your relationship: it is a perfect match of serenity and excitement, comfort and adventure; it stirs up your every atom with an intricate blend of intimacy and thrill.

Hurawalhi Island Resort . Tel +960 662 2000 . reservations@hurawalhi.com . hurawalhi.com

OUT & ABOUT

Royal Ascot 14-18 June 2022

W

ith a history as rich as it is long, Royal Ascot sits proudly as the jewel in the crown of horse racing.

Five days of unparalleled racing, high fashion, fine dining and pageantry, the Royal Meeting is renowned across the globe and creates an unforgettable experience in a unique setting.

Underpinned with a rich and deep-rooted heritage, it has not only survived the rigours of time, but it has thrived.

Royal Ascot is Britain’s most valuable race meeting, attracting many of the world’s finest racehorses. It is an experience shaped by the iconic moments that punctuate each day. Whether it’s the arrival of the Royal Procession at 2pm sharp, six world-class races throughout the afternoon or the communal singing around Ascot’s bandstand early evening, each day is an unforgettable whirlwind of excitement and colour. Though there are several nuanced variations that differentiate one day from the next, each shares the same magnificent atmosphere and sense of occasion, each is unmistakably Ascot.

An experience meant to be shared, Royal Ascot is the perfect occasion for socialising. The Royal Meeting hosts a choice of four separate enclosures, 3 4 M AY 2 0 2 2

each with its own ambiance and energy and has plenty to offer in terms of dining; a three course a la carte luncheon, gourmet picnic, Champagne afternoon tea or Fine Dining in one of Ascot’s restaurants, which in turn offer differing cuisines, atmospheres and views of the racecourse.

Royal Ascot is also synonymous with sartorial elegance as guests are welcomed to contribute to the sense of occasion by dressing in accordance with Royal Ascot’s Style Guide. Ascot’s dress code is traditional, woven into the very fabric of the racecourse’s history. Each year the racecourse is awash with colourful classic and contemporary fashions as well as the most magnificent and spectacular millinery creations.

Be part of the drama.

Book now at ascot.com

“Royal Ascot is Britain’s most valuable race meeting, attracting many of the world’s finest racehorses”

SPATA Outstanding Residential Pool of the Year 2022

AWARD WINNING, LUXURY SWIMMING POOLS Proud UK Installer and Distributor of Aqua Technics Pools Award-winning One-piece Swimming Pools From Australia Specialists in Indoor & Outdoor Swimming Pool Installation 44 SPATA Awards SPATA Contractor of the Year 2020, 2018, 2015 EUSA Domestic Indoor Pool Gold Award Winner 2021

Unit 5, The Glenmore Centre, Willesborough, Ashford, TN24 0TL 01233 840336 | enquiries@xlpools.com www.xlpools.com

OUT & ABOUT

Celebrate and mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in style

T

PRÊT-À-PORTEA returns from Monday 30th May – Sunday 12th June 2022

he Berkeley’s Prêt-à-Portea celebrates the Platinum Jubilee of the ultimate fashionista serving up three special creations, each representing one of Her Majesty’s most iconic fashion signatures.

First, one of the Queen’s most summery hats has been crafted with lime cheesecake, fresh lemon compote and almond sponge. This is finished with a flowery garnish. British label Launer London has long been Her Majesty’s handbag brand of choice.

Here, The Berkeley pastry team pay homage with a blueberry Victoria sponge iced with mirroir glaze, sandwiched with ivoire chocolate.

Finally, perhaps the most famous regal accessory – the crown - which has been created in vanilla biscuit and iced with burgundy, red and white (aptly named) royal icing.

A mocktail or cocktail offering will pay homage to the Queen. ‘Superbloom’ (named after the flower installation taking place at the Tower of London for the Jubilee) is a blend of non-alcoholic gin and earl grey tea (nodding to the Queen’s favourite tipples) with sweet violette bitters, rhubarb and raspberry tonic. For those who want to make it a little stronger, the tonic will make way for Laurent Perrier Rosé.

Sandwiches will include Roast Norfolk chicken with coronation dressing on rye bread.

Served 1pm - 5.30pm between Monday 30th May – Sunday 12th June 2022 from £79 per person.

3 6 M AY 2 0 2 2

THE PERFECTIONIST BEHIND THE PASTRY Following in his pâtissier father’s footsteps, the art of afternoon tea is personal for Head Pastry Chef, Mourad Khiat. Drawing on culinary traditions and catwalk collections from around the world, each delicate creation is an expression of Mourad’s impeccable taste. Balancing beautiful flavours with intricate designs for the ultimate statement piece.

ABOUT THE BERKELEY Nestled between bustling Knightsbridge and leafy Belgravia, The Berkeley is the essence of contemporary chic and innovative luxury. With stunning rooms and suites, Michelin-starred cuisine from Marcus Wareing, a fashion favourite afternoon tea at Prêt-à-Portea, the Blue Bar and The Berkeley Bar & Terrace for drinks and The Bamford Spa, The Berkeley continues to surprise and enchant.

THE DETAILS To make a reservation for Prêt-àPortea visit the-berkeley.co.uk/ restaurants-bars/afternoon-tea The Berkeley, Wilton Place Knightsbridge, SW1X 7RL the-berkeley.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

The Queen’s Jockeys To Form Guard Of Honour On

Cazoo Derby Day To Mark Platinum Jubilee Weekend 2022 Friday 2nd & Saturday 3rd June 2022

79 year old four-time Derby winner Willie Carson, who also rode The Queen’s Oaks winner Dunfermline in 1977, and John Reid, who won The Derby in 1992. Current riders joining the lineup will include Frankie Dettori and Ryan Moore, both of whom have won The Derby twice, and another of The Queen’s regular jockeys, Hayley Turner.

Another who is looking forward to this year’s

T

he Jockey Club has announced details of how Epsom Downs Racecourse will celebrate Her Majesty The Queen’s contribution to horseracing on Cazoo Derby Day, which forms part of the official Platinum Jubilee celebrations on Saturday 4th June.

A guard of honour will be formed on the track by 40 retired and current jockeys to have ridden for Her Majesty, dressed in the monarch’s famous purple and gold silks, to greet her arrival.

The welcoming party of jockeys will include

3 8 M AY 2 0 2 2

Cazoo Derby and a potential Royal runner in the race is legendary broadcaster Brough Scott, who has presented The Derby on TV more than 20 times and remains part of ITV Racing’s coverage team, said: “The thought of The Queen winning The Derby this year, of all the fairy-tale stories, that would be beyond it. It’s a wonderful thought.”

To recognise Her Majesty’s contribution to horseracing and her long association with The Derby, The Queen’s Stand at Epsom Downs Racecourse will also be permanently renamed as The Queen Elizabeth II Stand on Thursday 2nd June, two days before the 243rd running of The Cazoo Derby. On the same evening, a Community Beacon immediately adjacent to the racecourse, will be lit on Thursday evening at 9.45pm. There will be food, drink and entertainment, before people make their way to the Beacon lighting to finish the evening.

Phil White, London Regional Director at The Jockey Club, said: “We are absolutely delighted that this year’s Cazoo Derby will be a part of the official Platinum Jubilee celebrations, and excited that The Queen intends to be with us on the day, and to mark her arrival at the racecourse we will form a guard of honour of around 40 retired and current jockeys all dressed in Her Majesty’s silks. We’re also inviting members of the local community and some local charities to support the guard of honour as flag bearers.

“Derby Day always has that spectacular carnival atmosphere and we’re looking forward to a display from the Red Devils and a military band’s

“To recognise Her Majesty’s contribution to horseracing and her long association with The Derby, The Queen’s Stand at Epsom Downs Racecourse will also be permanently renamed as The Queen Elizabeth II Stand”

performance of the National Anthem which will all add to a wonderful occasion.”

The two-day Cazoo Derby starts on Friday 3rd June with the running of the Cazoo Oaks, followed by Derby Day itself 24 hours later – an event which forms part of the official weekend of Platinum Jubilee celebrations. A maximum capacity crowd in the ticketed enclosures at the racecourse of more than 35,000 people is expected, with tens of thousands more expected to take their place in the free enclosures on what is known locally as The Hill.

Epsom Downs Racecourse has also announced the Jubilee Family Festival, which will feature a main stage on The Hill and activities for various ages to enjoy. As part of the Family Festival zone, there will be an adjacent area with lots of racing charities showcasing what racing does so well.

There are a number of charities being represented from a racing point of view, so it’ll be a nice showcase on a special weekend to show all the good work that takes place in the industry.

“You can buy a ticket in one of our paid enclosures to guarantee your spot, or you can walk onto The Hill free of charge and be here in person to help celebrate the Platinum Jubilee. I think it’s a unique opportunity to be part of what promises to be something truly special.”

For further information and to purchase tickets visit thejockeyclub.co.uk/Epsom

M AY 2 0 2 2 3 9

OUT & ABOUT

How much do you know about

NO-FAULT DIVORCE?

The new Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020, or “no-fault divorce” was introduced last month. The biggest reform of divorce law in fifty years, the new law will help to reduce conflict between couples wanting to legally end a marriage or civil partnership.

S

o, what’s changed?

The new legislation allows couples to go their separate ways more amicably than ever before because it removes the need to assign an element of blame to end a marriage or civil partnership.

“Under the old law, couples had to prove the irretrievable breakdown of their relationship citing one of five facts of divorce. Put simply, one spouse had to accuse the other of adultery or unreasonable behaviour if they wanted to file for divorce without a waiting period. The only way couples could file for divorce without blame involved waiting for up to five years after separation.”

With “no-fault” divorce anyone seeking a divorce or dissolution can apply, stating the marriage or civil partnership has broken down irretrievably, without having to cite the reasons why. In addition, the other party is no longer able to contest the application and couples can make joint applications for divorce or dissolution.

The terminology has changed too…

The term “Decree Nisi” has changed to “Conditional Order” and “Decree Absolute” to

4 0 M AY 2 0 2 2

“We fully appreciate that divorce can be an extremely difficult time, which is why we approach every case with compassion and care”

THE DETAILS Thomas Dunton Solicitors LLP 217–219 High Street, Orpington, Kent BR6 0NZ T: 01689 822554 E: family@thomasdunton.co.uk www.thomasdunton.co.uk Thomas Dunton Solicitors LLP is a limited liability partnership. Reg. No. OC432925

“Final Order”. Timeframes have changed to get a conditional order. There will be a 20 week wait to get the conditional order (formerly known as decree nisi) but the 6-week timeframe for the final order (formerly known as decree absolute) remains the same.

What can Thomas Dunton do to help?

We fully appreciate that divorce can be an extremely difficult time, which is why our team of accredited and highly trained family law solicitors approach every case with compassion and care.

Not only will we explain the divorce process, discuss your options and assess your legal standpoint, but we can also deal with the court’s online application process, offer advice on the division of assets (e.g. financial, property and pensions), and advise on the costs and funding options specific to your case.

Thomas Dunton has been delivering a personalised service to the local community for over 40 years.

We have a reputation for putting our clients and their needs first and take professional satisfaction from knowing that 93% of our clients would highly recommend us to friends and family.

Experts in Home Cinema Installation & Technology Indoor & Outdoor AV, Control Systems and Lighting

01732 758985

www.lakehome.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

CHESTERTONS POLO IN THE PARK 2022 10th, 11th & 12th June, Hurlingham Park, Fulham

“You can watch fast and furious polo from a plethora of bars, gardens or grandstand whilst enjoying delicious food offerings, great music with a DJ line-up and endless entertainment”

4 2 M AY 2 0 2 2

C

hestertons Polo in the Park is returning to the prestigious Hurlingham Park in Fulham to host the largest and certainly the most fun Polo Tournament in Europe. There will be teams representing six different Cities from around the world competing over three exciting days, with a minimum of three games of polo a day.

You can watch fast and furious polo from a plethora of bars, gardens or grandstand whilst enjoying delicious food offerings, great music with a DJ line-up and endless entertainment. You can soak up the atmosphere at pitchside parties in the Mahiki and Polo Bars, the classy Champagne Lanson Garden, the chilled-out Fever-Tree Bar or

the PIMM’s Bus and Garden.

New for 2022 is The Fulham Food Festival at Chestertons Polo in the Park, featuring the best of London’s restaurants and tasty street food including BORN & RAISED, CARBONIS, THE MAC FACTORY, CLAW, CHANGO EMPANADAS and NEIGHBOURHOOD BAKES. Explore the luxury Shopping Village between matches and you will discover an array of prestigious brands offering luxury products to surprise your loved ones.

If you are looking to entertain important clients and colleagues, you can choose from their exclusive VIP Hospitality Packages, subject to availability.

CUDOS INTERNATIONAL DAY Friday 10th June 2022 The world will congregate here for an actionpacked day to kick-start the tournament, including the Frasers England Polo Team taking to the hallowed turf of Hurlingham Park in a thrilling international match. Friday is a perfect day to entertain clients or colleagues for after-work drinks with a difference, or as its best known ‘The Ultimate Office Party’. VIP Hospitality Packages from £375 pp + VAT.

HPA LADIES DAY Saturday 11th June 2022 The ultimate day party in Central London! a great reason to dress up and enjoy a day out watching high-quality sporting action. Shop ‘til you drop, then relax with friends in the Champagne Lanson Garden. You could even win the best-dressed competition!

NEW for 2022 – London’s first ever Ladies International Test Match, competing under newly ratified City Polo Series Rules. VIP Hospitality from £145 pp + VAT

FINALS SUNDAY & KIDS DAY Sunday 12th June 2022 (Children under 5 admitted free) With a world-class finale match, Sunday is also the ultimate party for kids with an unforgettable pitch invasion from renowned children’s party entertainers, Sharky and George – and this year it’s going to be bigger than ever before with a collection of quirky, fast-paced challenges including: • Strawberry bootlace race and edible bug eating

• Capture the flag • Tug-of-war • Space hopper steeplechase • Squirrel Tales • Rock, paper, scissors hoop hop showdown After completing as many challenges and collecting as many water balloons as possible in the time limit, take cover and prepare for the most colossal water fight you’ll ever see in your life! Little Hooves Kids Club will also be open all day, hosting fantastic story-telling, bouncy castles, colourful face-painting and soft play, so there really will be no shortage of fun.

On the main polo field throughout the morning Chelsea Football Club and Hammersmith & Fulham Rugby Club will be hosting skills sessions and Westcroft Park Polo Club will be on hand to teach you how to play polo.

Finals Sunday VIP Hospitality from £125 pp + VAT

THE SADDLE UP PARTY Sunday 12th June 2022 (Over 18s) New for 2022 is the launch of London’s biggest day party as thousands of the Capital’s latest recruits revel in the sun at Saddle Up in Mahiki to welcome in the Summer. Dust those Saturday night cobwebs away with a Bloody Mary. Enjoy a lazy Sunday afternoon watching the polo while you nurse a jugs of Pimms or a G&T. When you feel your feet start tapping along to the beat, strap on your dancing shoes, and get stuck into London’s first summer Sunday session at this glorious festival of polo.

THE DETAILS Chestertons Polo in the Park will take place in Hurlingham Park, Fulham, London SW6 3RH For further information and to purchase tickets, visit polointheparklondon.com For Hospitality Enquiries call 0208 237 5506 or email vip@polointheparklondon.com

M AY 2 0 2 2 4 3

OUT & ABOUT

CLARIDGE’S Will celebrate and mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

C

laridge’s - the legendary Mayfair hotel - often referred to as the ‘annexe of Buckingham Palace’, has searched through its distinguished archives to unveil some of its most memorable royal moments and treasures for the very first time.

With a particular focus on the majestic Coronation activities of 1953, items include rarely seen footage of Queen Elizabeth attending a Coronation gowns fashion show at the hotel in her accession year and Claridge’s Coronation Day menus, cocktail cards and memorabilia.

About Claridge’s There is nowhere quite like Claridge’s. The hotel began life in 1856 and soon attracted royal notice. During the 1920s it became an English institution; an art deco landmark, loved by movie stars and statesmen, fashion designers and global dignitaries.

To this day, Claridge’s continue the dedication to service that made us a byword for luxury.

Step into the lobby and prepare to be whisked away to an age of timeless art deco glamour. Whether this is your first visit or you are making another fond return, you will be treated like an old friend.

For more details, please visit claridges.co.uk Claridge’s, Brook Street, Mayfair, W1K 4HR

4 4 M AY 2 0 2 2

Claridge’s Royal Archive Windows will be open to view in the hotel’s lobby throughput the month of June 2022, when the Mayfair hotel will also proudly fly the Union Jack flags across their entrance bringing a sense of pomp and ceremony to Brook Street.

Claridge’s Archivist Kate Hudson said ‘This is such perfect moment to showcase our archives for the first time. We have so many treasures that reflect our relationship with royalty over the past two centuries that include entries in Queen Victoria’s diaries, fans created by the hotel to celebrate the coronation in 1911, photographs, original menus and letters’.

Meanwhile, in both The Fumoir and Claridge’s Bar, special cocktails will be poured for royal revellers, including the Windsor Rose – which was served at Claridge’s to mark the Queen’s Coronation in 1953 - the Claridge’s Regal and the Royal Stag.

MORTGAGE

ADVISORS

Your home can be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Registered Individual of Charles Crown Group, FCA 774448

FASHION, HEALTH

& BEAUTY

– Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – I MAGE: C OPPER TRENDS

FA S H I O N , H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

Tempted by the celeb-approved

COPPER

HAIR TREND? Hair experts reveal the dos and don’ts of becoming a redhead. By Katie Wright.

M

odels and actors have been going crazy for copper, making it the biggest celebrity hair trend since everyone went for ‘pandemic pink’ during the first lockdown.

Gigi Hadid was an early adopter, unveiling deep auburn locks at the Met Gala in 2021, and her pal Kendall Jenner was more recently spotted on the Prada catwalk with a sleek, copper-toned updo.

Barbie Ferreira, star of hit drama series Euphoria, debuted a Ginger Spice-esque shade on Instagram earlier this year, and Phoebe Dynevor – normally

known for her blonde locks in Bridgerton – has been rocking a rich, glossy copper look.

“I love the copper hair trend,” says Natalia Vera, designer stylist at Live True London (livetruelondon.com). “Copper hues haven’t had much love for a while, so the recent rise in popularity is long overdue.”

Michael Shaun Corby, global creative director at Living Proof (livingproof.com), is also a big fan: “After years of conservative, made-to-last hair, bolder colours are back.” He suggests coppery reds are “a way to ‘peacock’, and say we’re ready to get out there”.

Fancy a red-hot hair transformation? Here’s everything you need to know before taking the plunge…

How easy is it to get copper hair?

“With lighter coloured hair, the process is easy and can be achieved with a gloss, toner or semipermanent dye that will wash out after about 10 shampoos,” says Belle Cannan, co-founder of Salon Sloane (salonsloane.com). “Darker hair is trickier, as you may have to pre-lighten the hair to get the most natural-looking finish.”

Vera says going from blonde to copper in the salon can be achieved in one session – but you might need to have a few more if you’re transitioning from “very dark or box dyed hair”.

4 8 M AY 2 0 2 2

Models and actors have been going crazy for copper, making it the biggest celebrity hair trend since everyone went for ‘pandemic pink’ during the first lockdown.

Corby recommends getting it done professionally, “Especially if you need to lift your base/natural colour before dyeing it copper, as you can end up with unwanted brassier tones”.

How can you find your perfect copper shade?

Looking at your eye colour and the undertones of your skin can help you decide whether to go for a deep cherry red or a more golden shade.

“Copper is very versatile,” says Corby. “It draws out the warmth of brown eyes, and it can also make blue eyes pop – as it is on the opposite side of the colour wheel.” As for skin tones, he says: “If you have greyer undertones, it doesn’t work as well, but for cool and warmer skin tones – go for it!”

Vera adds: “I recommend having a consultation with your stylist first, to make sure you find the right shade for you. There’s a whole range of copper tones, from fiery warm shades with yellow undertones, to more natural deep red colours with blue undertones.”

How easy is it to maintain the colour?

It’s important to consider upkeep before making a major colour change.

“If you wash your hair daily, this colour isn’t for you,” Corby says – particularly as red colour molecules are quite small, so can leave the hair quickly.

Vera recommends using “copper hair masks weekly, and keeping on top of your toner appointments at the salon to keep your colour looking fabulous. You

should also aim to reduce how often you shampoo your hair, and invest in colour protecting shampoos and conditioners to help the vibrancy of your colour last longer.”

RHYME & REASON COLOUR PROTECT SHAMPOO, £8.99, BOOTS LIVING PROOF RESTORE CONDITIONER, £25, M&S MARIA NILA COLOUR REFRESH BRIGHT COPPER, £24.50 JOSH WOOD COLOUR COPPER GOLD GLOSS, £19

M AY 2 0 2 2 4 9

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

BLACKBURN DESIGNS

for the modern bride

C

urrently in its 17th year of business, Blackburn Bridal has earnt the award-winning reputation as the go-to destination for brides looking for new and exclusive designers and the very best-of-the-best in bridal service.

is looking for a gown that both compliments and showcases her style and figure. The label is totally exclusive to the boutique with brides travelling from around the UK and abroad to buy from the collection. During the month of May the boutique is offering 10% off across the entire Blackburn Couture range.

A touch of luxe…

Having spent years dressing thousands of brides, and establishing himself as a key player within the bridal industry, boutique owner Russell Blackburn turned his hand to designing and launched his own bridal collection Blackburn Couture in 2013. The collection has since become one of the most popular in store.

Sitting alongside designers; Anna Campbell, Anna Kara and Fran Rios London.

From sleek and form-fitting, to romantic designs incorporating the softest tulle and floral appliqué, the Blackburn Couture collection is perfect for the bride who 5 0 M AY 2 0 2 2

For brides wanting to shop in style, the boutique offers extra special VIP appointments hosted by Russell. These consultative appointments come with the privacy and exclusive use of the boutique for an hour and a half and a bottle of bubbly for you and your guests to enjoy. A limited number of exclusive VIP appointments are available midweek at £50 and on Sundays for £65.

ASK RUSSELL This month, Sarah from Chislehurst asks...

Q: I am planning our upcoming civil ceremony at Marylebone town hall and am struggling to find a suitable outfit that isn’t too bridal but I still feel special in. Help!

A: Huge congratulations on your upcoming wedding! We dress lots of brides for civil ceremonies - It is a great opportunity to choose something different and often more fun than more formal ceremonies would allow.

You could explore the idea of a white trouser suit or bridal jumpsuit, alternatively if you still want to wear a dress you could opt for a shorter tea length dress and choose some show stopping shoes and accessories - our Ava dress is hugely popular with brides wanting to achieve a similar look.

If you would like to submit a question for Russell next month email info@blackburnbridal.co.uk

BLACKBURN COUTURE SHOWCASE During the month of May the boutique is shining a spotlight on the Blackburn Couture collection.

Brides can view the extensive collection and benefit from 10% off any Blackburn Couture dress purchased. Book your appointment by visiting www.blackburnbridal.co.uk, emailing info@blackburnbridal.co.uk or calling 0208 297 1188

WEDDING VENUE OF THE YEAR KENT WEDDING AWARDS 2021/22

THE BRITISH WEDDING AWARDS - BEST BARN WEDDING VENUE The Old Kent Barn is one of the most beautiful and romantic wedding venues in Kent No expense was spared in its design and creation. From the beautiful gazebo where spring and summer ceremonies are held, to the chandeliers, state-of-the-art bar and starlight ceiling in its magnificent new oak-framed barn, this truly is the perfect setting for ceremonies and receptions all year round.

We are a family run business and pride ourselves on the quality and warmth of the service we offer. We work tirelessly to ensure that your wedding is perfect in every way for you, your family and your guests.

w: theoldkentbarn.co.uk t: 01303 844270 e: events@theoldkentbarn.co.uk The Old Kent Barn @theoldkentbarn The Old Kent Barn, Swingfield, Kent CT15 7HF

FASHION, FA S H I O N &HEALTH B E AU T Y& BEAUTY

[NEWS]

FASHION & BEAUTY AGEING BEAUTIFULLY The Multitasker; a day cream, night cream, eye cream and serum, all in one, formulated specifically for fifty plus women.

Packed with an assortment of vitamins and antioxidants the skin needs, The Multitasker works around the clock to hydrate and replenish the skin. violetjordan.co.uk

BEACH BEAUTIES Looking for white swimwear that combines both high quality with a beautiful design? Look no further.

The front plunge on this designer one piece swimsuit (left) shows just enough skin to keep this style elegant and sophisticated. And perfect for all body types, the simple yet stylish design features signature exclusive branded clasp and cut out detail shoulder straps that can be adjusted to guarantee you get a great fit. This year’s favourite colour – fuchsia – is perfect for showing off your tan (right). topazluxe.com

SPRING/SUMMER CLASSIC Made for nights in and slow mornings, our classic men’s Grey pyjama trouser set is made from super soft 100% stonewashed linen. Linen keeps you cosy and warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Timeless, yet effortlessly comfortable. pigletinbed.com

SPLASH OF COLOUR We love this colourful pouch by Kate Whyley featuring the ‘Comfort’ design - a subtle print in burnt orang.

Designed to be fun and classic with a hardy brass zip, carefully created to live up to your lifestyle. katewhyley.com 1 5 92 4 MMAAYY 22 00 22 22

TOTE-ALLY GREAT A small tote bag with two different coloured handles - red and navy. Really hardwearing, the wraparound handles make it suitable for carrying heavy stuff!

Perfect for the beach or shopping around town. braided-rug.co.uk

FASHION, FA S H I O N &HEALTH B E AU T Y& BEAUTY

STYLE SECRETS OF THE

QUEEN’S WARDROBE A royal fashion expert reveals some surprising things about the Queen’s fashion. By Katie Wright.

M

any of us know the Queen often wears eye-catching colours so she’ll stand out from the crowd during public appearances.

But there’s a lot more to Her Majesty’s fashion choices than just bright frock coats and matching hats, as Bethan Holt discovered while researching her latest book, The Queen: 70 years Of Majestic Style.

To mark the Queen’s 96th birthday which was on April 21, Holt shares some of the surprising facts she learned about the monarch’s wardrobe…

While most of her clothes are bespoke, during the early years of her reign she sometimes donned ready-to-wear dresses by British label Horrockses while on foreign tours. Holt explains: “She allowed the company to sell the same dresses she wore, which was a gift for the fashion pages.”

And she’s continued to set trends, with Holt saying: “Even today, her colour choices often spark a rise in interest – sales of lime green rose by 134% after she wore the shade for her 90th birthday celebrations in 2016.”

She’s always been a style influencer

Her handbag is specially adapted for her

During her younger days, the Queen was as much of a fashion icon as the Duchess of Cambridge is today.

“I found throughout her life, the Queen has had the power to influence trends,” Holt says. “As a baby, her mother’s preference for dressing her in cotton rather than wool impacted trends.”

British leather brand Launer (launer.com) has a Royal Warrant, and makes the Queen’s trademark handbags to her specific requirements.

“They have an extra-long 16-inch strap so they hang comfortably from her arm, they are lined in silk rather than suede, and over the past eight or nine years, they have been modified to be as light

2 50 4 0MMAAYY 22 00 22 22

Top left: The Queen during a visit to Tonga in 1953 Top right: The Queen during a visit to Japan in 1975.

Below: The Queen at Ascot in 2015

you from a lady-in-waiting when he sent over a pair of scarves in the requisite size and print.

She often wears trousers in private “The Queen has only been pictured wearing trousers in public a handful of times throughout her reign,” Holt says. “One such moment came in 2003 as she was leaving hospital following a knee operation.”

Following the appearance, the tailor behind the trousers, Peter Enrione, revealed he had in fact made countless pairs of trousers for the Queen over the years. Holt adds: “While seeing her wear them in public might have caused a furore, they’re a central part of her private wardrobe.”

She’s her own style muse as possible for Her Majesty to carry,” Holt says.

“Contrary to popular belief, she doesn’t own 200 styles – just a select few in different styles and neutral colours.”

She’s very particular about her silk scarves

The Queen: 70 years Of Majestic Style by Bethan Holt is published in hardback by Ryland Peters & Small, priced £18.99.

The Queen’s sartorial archive is an inspiration to designers today.

“Rachel Trevor-Morgan, the Queen’s milliner, told me she continues to be inspired by Her Majesty’s 1950s style for the hats she makes for her now,” Holt says.

She’s the original diplomatic dresser

When she isn’t wearing a formal hat, the Queen protects her hair with a neatly tied silk scarf, many of which are from Hermès. But on one occasion, Launer gifted her two scarves.

“Gerald Bodmer, the owner of Launer, told me he was given very specific instructions about the gift the Queen would like as a birthday present,” Holt recalls.

Bodmer was told she’d like a square floral silk scarf measuring 34-inches, and received a thank

Throughout her reign, the Queen has made numerous diplomatic statements with her clothes.

“In the 1950s, Norman Hartnell created special gowns incorporating meaningful symbols, whether it was wattle embellishments in Australia, or bees (the symbol of Napoleon) in France,” Holt explains. “Over the years, she’s worn cherry blossom in Japan, modest clothing in Saudi Arabia and red and white in Canada.”

Clockwise from top: The Queen in her carriage as she heads to Ascot in 2019; The Queen at the Royal Windsor Horse show in 2010; The Queen during a visit to Northern Ireland to mark her 90th birthday in 2016; Queen Elizabeth II drives from Buckingham Palace to Epsom in 1958

M AMYA Y2 0220 22 2 5 25 0 1

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Find Peace of Mind at

EMERSON GRANGE

Emerson Grange in Hextable, Kent is a spectacular purpose-built care home featuring beautifully appointed en-suite bedrooms and a selection of one bedroom care suites complete with separate lounge and kitchenette which are perfect for couples.

T

he care home offers exemplary residential and dementia care together with the opportunity for short respite stays. As a state-of-the-art care home, it provides the very latest design and infection control innovations in a luxurious yet homely setting.

Other five-star facilities include a cafe bar, a hair & beauty salon, cinema, indulgent spa bathrooms, luxury lounges and elegant dining rooms. A dedicated dementia care community celebrates the uniqueness of every individual through the care, activities and living experiences delivered by a specially trained team.

Over the past two years, restrictions on daily living have led many older people to be isolated in their own homes with the upkeep of the property a constant concern and daily tasks becoming a burden.

Families and friends also worry about their loved ones’ wellbeing but Emerson Grange could give the peace of mind that they all are looking for.

Resident Services Advisor at Emerson Grange, Aileen Nimmo says:

5 6 M AY 2 0 2 2

THE DETAILS Emerson Park To arrange a visit to Emerson Park Retirement Village including Emerson Grange Care Home, telephone our team on 01322 788573 or visit www.cinnamoncc.com/emersonpark

“The team here at Emerson Grange put their heart and soul into everything they do. Our collective aim is to make a real difference to the residents who live with us ensuring the highest level of care and enabling everyone to live their lives to the full.”

Emerson Grange Care Home is part of Emerson Park Retirement Village which also offers an exclusive range of luxury retirement apartments for sale and which take the concept of retirement living to a whole new level.

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

LAMBORGHINI NEW AUTUMN/WINTER

2022

KIDS COLLECTION

A

utomobili Lamborghini launches its new Autumn/ Winter 2022 collection for kids aged four to sixteen, in collaboration with the Danish children’s wear specialist KABOOKI. The Junior collection encapsulates the essence of Automobili Lamborghini: dynamic and colourful.

The range of casual clothes and accessories expresses creativity, dynamism and energy through the use of slogans, deconstructed logos, and an artistic reimagining of iconic elements from the Sant’Agata Bolognese super sports cars.

The colours of the children’s lines are immediately redolent of the colours of Lamborghini super sports cars, including yellows, greens, blues and oranges, as well as an on-trend cerise. T-shirts include a reflective black detailed motif on a same-colour background, with a ‘race’ t-shirt in various colours depicting the Aventador SVJ racing across the front. The number 63 is a recurring theme, reminding young super sports car enthusiasts that 1963 was the year Ferruccio Lamborghini created his car company.

Leisure wear with a ‘glitch’ effect from gaming screens includes t-shirts, a sweatshirt and even a baseball cap and backpack. Logos on various items are foil printed, reflective and even rubberised: the Automobili Lamborghini brand, like its clothing, is about being authentic, brave and living life to the full.

The collection will be available from September in the Automobili Lamborghini sales channels and selected retail outlets. lamborghinistore.com/uk/kids

5 8 M AY 2 0 2 2

Boy’s Lamborghini Race T-Shirt – yellow with custom script logo. £38.00 Boy’s Aventador SVJ T-Shirt – blue with custom script logo. £38.00 Boy’s Graphic T-Shirt – green with a script logo and graphic print. £38.00

M AY 2 0 2 2 5 9

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Boy’s block colour soft-shell jacket – with ¾ zip, front pockets and elasticated cuffs and hem. Custom script logo print and three-tone detail on the back. £138.00

6 0 M AY 2 0 2 2

Boy’s crew-neck block colour sweatshirt - grey/green with 3d shield logo print on the chest. £59.00

M AY 2 0 2 2 6 1

HOUSE &

GARDEN – Keep it local for everything house and home – IMAGE: C HA PLINS

HOUSE & GARDEN

Timeless Bespoke Design & Quality

BUILT TO LAST

Imagine bespoke furniture without limits. No specific unit sizes, no set door types or layouts and all made in any timber you choose. Imagine your kitchen, wardrobes, bookcases and tables designed and built just for you; an original and one off.

T

his is what Nordhus Furniture delivers and specialises in. Every kitchen is completely individual to the client’s needs, lifestyle and wishes.

The 7 strong team are led by Rikke Mitchell. Rikke is originally from Denmark where she was strongly influenced by the classic Danish designers such as Fritz Hansen and Arne Jacobsen while growing up.

At their workshop and design studios in Langton

6 4 M AY 2 0 2 2

Every kitchen is completely individual to the client’s needs, lifestyle and wishes

Green, Tunbridge Wells, the Nordhus team works to deliver their clients ambitions and create interiors to suit the lifestyles of their client base.

The design studios run over two floors with the design team’s office located on the second floor. The first floor is occupied by three individual show areas displaying bespoke furniture showing off the team’s capabilities. The ground floor is their workshop where the magic happens and where the team builds

kitchens, wardrobes and storage solutions. At Nordhus furniture the ethos is very much bespoke and sustainable. According to Rikke: “we use as many sustainable materials as possible and make recommendations to clients. We like to work with high grade birch plywood as well as poplar plywood.

These can then be veneered with any hardwood if desired. We do our own in house veneering so that we can book match veneers if required. We also use sustainable and durable hardwoods where possible.”

The Nordhus experience often starts with a visit to the design studio show rooms to formulate initial thoughts and ideas with a client. A further design meeting will take place in the client’s space to further formulate ideas and translate the clients needs and wishes into a design. Once the design process is complete, the workshop floor takes over and manufacturing commences. This is where the designs come to life. Rikke says: “here at Nordhus, we exclusively use solid maple for our cabinet frames, rails and stiles. Maple is a more stable and much tougher hardwood than the solid poplars or basswoods used by most other kitchen cabinet

The fully bespoke service offered by Nordhus leaves no stone unturned in the team’s quest to offer their clients their dream lifestyle.

According to Rikke “It isn’t a Nordhus kitchen, it’s the client’s kitchen”

THE DETAILS Nordhus For all enquiries including how to visit the showrooms please contact: info@nordhus.co.uk or call 01892 251 998

makers. Our drawers are solid timber usually oak but we can make solid maple or walnut drawers too.”

The workshop even contains a paint and spray room which enables Nordhus Furniture to offer any colour and any finish to their discerning client base. “Many clients still prefer the hand-painted finish” explains Rikke “but we like to be able to give our clients options”.

Past Nordhus commissions include a bespoke solid walnut console table with brass inlays matching details in the client’s house to a wardrobe with a secret door leading to a dressing area & ensuite, to a bespoke kitchen built around the particular needs of a large family with a large island for cooking with seating.

According to Rikke and Nick, the design and Workshop manager at Nordhus, the many design decisions required for a new kitchen needs expert guidance and assistance. “Making kitchens is a complicated business with many issues to factor in.

In order to get the most out of your budget, having expert guidance to design to a desired budget and style is invaluable“ says Nick. The Nordhus team’s experience and ability to make bespoke items to suit a client’s space, needs and lifestyle helps to avoid mistakes being made. The fully bespoke service offered by Nordhus leaves no stone unturned in the team’s quest to offer their clients their dream lifestyle.

According to Rikke “It isn’t a Nordhus kitchen, it’s the client’s kitchen” For inspiration from their previous commissions, visit www.nordhus.co.uk M AY 2 0 2 2 6 5

HOUSE & GARDEN

[NEWS]

INTERIORS READY FOR BED This is one sleepy little owl all ready for bed in his nightcap.

Perfect for a bedside lamp.

This shade with its monochrome and touch of gold will suit most decors from the ultra modern to the vintage collector. Using collaged victorian illustrations this quirky shade is made to order on fine art paper and and finished off with an exquisite handapplied gold detail ensuring that no two are the same. mountainandmolehill.com

TIME FOR TEA FRENCH CONNECTION This bed is proudly an heirloom piece. Over the years it will blend with all homes and styles we chose and all life stages as we grow older. From teenage late-night phone chats, to those first job morning nerves in the city apartment, and finally in your forever home with little bundles of joy – this bed will grow old with you, capturing the moments that make the memories for the rest of your lifetime. frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

Add a touch of class to tea-time with this adorable Polka Dot Teacup & Saucer! Finished in glossy blush pink and embellished with a delicate gold trim. Why not buy one as a gift, or keep it all to yourself. You deserve it! sweetpeaandwillow.com

RESPONSIBLE LOUNGING The Stratus Snuggler Chair has been made from recycled, re-purposed and responsibly sourced materials. Starting out as bottles and plastic fibres, the Stratus has been lovingly crafted in the UK. cuckooland.com

GRAND ENTRANCE The entrance hall is the perfect area for making an immediate design impact and the stunning Etienne Contemporary Console Table with it’s endless curves will do just that! Made using brass plated iron and a toughened glass top, it’s a statement piece which will not date. atkinandthyme.co.uk 2 6 46 6 MMAAYY 22 00 22 22

WE LOVE YesColours Loving Pink emulsion paint – dare to go dark! yescolours.com

Design. Inspire. Indulge.

Book an appointment to visit our showroom to design your dream bathroom.

01732 350911 townsbathrooms.co.uk

HOUSE& &PROPERTY GARDEN HOME

It’s Time To Get Your

Nature Fix A

t first glance, modern life seems to come with all the bells and whistles.

There is the internet, for one, coupled with apps that mean you can now easily summon a packet of raspberries for midnight pavlova cravings. But it also seems to be accompanied by an undeniable twitchyness.

Finding focus is harder than ever. And our senses simultaneously duller as we overindulge on the images fed by screens.

Some concerned have inaugurated digital detoxes. Or set up ambitious limits on screen time. And yet there is a third way for those who don’t wish to swear off their social media entirely.

Known in Japan as forest bathing, it involves the kind of regular immersion in nature that our ancestors would have recognised. Or, as the Finnish government is now prescribing, at least 5 hours per month spent exploring landscapes that are lush and living.

Making sure we get our nature fix is an argument that’s eloquently been explored in a new book by Florence Williams.

Over the course of 300 pages, she reveals how, in the open-endedness of nature, creativity soars, worry subsides and we become our most 16 08 4 M MA AY Y 22 002222

“civic-minded selves”. A heartening notion, until she drops the bombshell that we Brits spend on average just 7% of our day outside.

Part of the problem, we learn, is an overbearing culture of office life and commuting. But as we inch closer to a world of hybrid work and a fourday working week, we have a unique opportunity

“As we inch closer to a world of hybrid work and a four-day working week, we have a unique opportunity to make life outdoors a permanent fixture”

to make life outdoors a permanent fixture.

Meeting us there is an eclectic mix of designers, each of which have been busy developing avantgarde furnishings that help us live outdoors with new fullness and serendipity. At Cane-Line this looks like the invention of quick-drying cushions — each fully ready for use just 60 minutes after a downpour.

Flexform, meanwhile, have focused on bringing the icons of their lounge catalogue out, setting the stage for an al fresco experience that prioritises both comfort and quality.

“For aeons, outdoor furniture was characterised by plastic or timber,” says Ludovic Aublanc, Creative Director at Chaplins. “Wonderfully resistant materials, it’s true, but not always the most inviting thing to sit on. These brands have changed all that. In taking the time to understand the way people live and lounge, they’ve brought the living room into the garden, allowing us to sink into new rhythms and rituals.”

With many of these luxury

designs, it’s also about what the eye can’t see.

Advances in both foam and fabric technology mean that these new sumptuous styles are virtually impervious to the elements.

“You can be a bit lazy now,” explains designer Patrick Jouin in a recent Architonic interview.

“Outside used to be rough — simplistic almost — but now you can indulge more. You can leave your furniture out in the rain for two weeks without covering them.”

And when the sun does come out to play? You can enjoy the outdoors like never before. Indulging in all the magic that is dinner beneath a canopy of stars. Or else that delicious morning coffee, nestled in a lovely lounge chair on the patio. Simple pleasures — it’s true — but ones that help anchor us to the world and everything in it.

Did you promise that 2022 would be the year you spent more time outdoors? Then why not pay our Hatch End showroom a visit? As well as our dedicated outdoor living studios, you can also take advantage of our exterior design service — offered in conjunction with garden design specialists Pen & Barrow — and which has the power to transform any al fresco space into an unprecedented Eden.

THE DETAILS Chaplins Furniture, 477-507 Uxbridge Road, Hatch End, HA5 4JS chaplins.co.uk 020 8421 1779

M AMYA Y2 0220 22 2 6 19 0 5

HOUSE & GARDEN

HAND

CRAFTED

FOR LIFE

Sustainable bespoke furniture from MZ Interiors

K

ent based MZ Interiors provides a range of bespoke and high-quality hand crafted furniture for your home.

From kitchens to wardrobes, everything is built using only the best materials in their fully equipped workshop by highly trained professionals.

“Our workshop is equipped to deal with any project no matter how simple or specialist. We also offer the facility of spray finishing to the customers specifications,” explains Mareks, Founder.

“It all starts with the initial conversation with the client.” Mareks continues. “Everything we make is built to last a lifetime so it’s about how this will fit in with their lifestyle. We can also recommend alternative colours, sizes, or find solutions for saving space.”

MZ Interiors use the latest 3D software to design and visualise the project in the setting of their own home allowing clients to see every detail prior to production.

7 0 M AY 2 0 2 2

Mareks is proud of the sustainability of the materials they use. “All paints we use are water-based and our range of eighty different shades of odourless oils are quick drying. In fact, ninety-five percent of everything we use is chemical free.”

MZ Interiors also offers a re-spray service for their projects. All projects are based on a ‘clipping system’, so if the customer changes their mind about the colour of their kitchen, for example, they can remove all painted parts to re-spray without any damage or inconvenience.

“We can’t rate Mareks and his team highly enough.

They designed, made and installed our beautiful bespoke Kitchen, all on time and before Xmas as we had hoped. The quality and attention to detail is impeccable Absolute first class job, fairly priced and customer service second to none.”

MZ Interiors offer a 5 year warranty (terms apply) If you would like to know more about MZ Interiors, their products, or would like to speak to someone about your requirements, visit www. mzinteriors.co.uk, or call Mareks on 07477433331.

“We can’t rate Mareks and his team highly enough.

They designed, made and installed our beautiful bespoke Kitchen”

HOUSE & GARDEN OUTDOOR LIVING

ORIGIN - A SANCTUARY

T

ransforming your home with a bespoke pool house is the ultimate in home improvement. It allows you to create a place of relaxation, wellbeing and fun all in the comfort of your own home. Origin knows that a swimming pool can not only add value to your home but to your home life as well and there are many decisions to be made along the way. Attention to detail and precise planning is crucial when designing a successful swimming pool and pool house as the process is quite unlike any other building project and requires more than just finding a competent builder.

It’s important to understand that indoor pools require specialist design in three major areas: the pool chamber, the building structure and the management of the pool building environment (heating, dehumidification and ventilation). All of these specialisms should be integrated into a consolidated design from the start, to avoid disruptive, complicated and potentially costly alterations after your pool house has been built.

87 62 M MAAYY2 022022 2

“Swimming has many benefits, as well as the obvious, it improves quality of sleep and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression”

IN YOUR OWN HOME This is where Origin comes in. Simply put, they do it all. Building swimming pools requires a holistic approach with all the key elements working together from the beginning. Origin eliminate the need to employ separate companies by managing the whole process for you, from concept to completion. Access to a pool right on your doorstep means it’s easy to swim and exercise everyday in the privacy and safety of your own home. They’ve 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.

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 itself: by adding a spa, sauna or yoga room your swimming pool and pool house could be a centre of wellbeing. 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 may seem daunting, making the decision will bring you measurable benefits.

Whether you’re looking to create a sanctuary in your home or somewhere to just have fun, Origin have experienced it all and are available to help you bring your dream pool to life, managing every stage from start to finish, giving you the confidence and freedom to enjoy finally swimming in your own home. Origin’s experts can discuss requirements, guide you through the options and produce a fully costed proposal and design allowing you to undertake the ultimate home improvement so you can finally achieve the perfect work life balance.

Speak to the experts at Origin Leisure - call 01895 453996 now or visit originpools.co.uk for more information and to subscribe to our newsletter. Our Instagram page @originpoolsuk is bursting with the latest pool inspiration.

MA M AY 2 Y0 2220 272 3 8 7

HOUSE & GARDEN

A new concept in outdoor cooking for your best summer ever for outdoor entertaining.

The Charlie Outdoor Charcoal Oven

I

t’s time to take the cover off the BBQ and enjoy the Summer. But will the reality live up to our dreams? well, it all depends on what you’re cooking with.

We think of BBQs for warm, sunny days. But we use our BBQs a lot less than we’d like to. In the UK – largely thanks to the weather - the average BBQ is only used five times a year. But with Charlie, it’s always BBQ weather!

Its front-opening design minimises heat loss and protects your food from the elements. The cooking is all done in the sealed oven chamber, while the chef can sit indoors, just waiting till Charlie has created its magic, whatever the weather outside. Charlie is totally weatherproof. It’s made in Britain from solid steel, in nine striking colours.

It can live and work outdoors all year round. You can use it day in, day out.

When we think BBQ, it’s sausages, burgers, maybe steaks. But it so often over-promises and

under-delivers. How about fish, charcoal-grilled with the taste of the Mediterranean? Seafood?

Vegetables? Bread? Fruit? Desserts? Pizzas?

With Charlie you can do the lot. And add amazing, smoky flavour to whatever food you choose to cook.

It’s a BBQ, a pizza oven, a smoker and a grill. With 2.5 times the capacity of a domestic oven. Delight the meat lovers, the vegans, the vegetarians, the pescatarians. Cook vegetables so tasty that even your children will eat them.

There’s no need to be an “expert” at BBQ-ing: anyone can use Charlie. Even though it’s inspired by the front-opening charcoal ovens that are the secret of top professional kitchens.

We call Charlie, “The Chef Maker”.

In many ways, using Charlie is the opposite of BBQ-ing. It’s totally hands-off. No need for constant attention, no face full of smoke and heat.

You can set Charlie from 100°c for low ‘n’ slow, up to 500°c for incredibly fast searing of meat or pizzas.

Easy peasy. Just put in your food and Charlie will create the magic for you! Sit back. Relax.

Enjoy looking at your beautiful oven. Enjoy the incredible food.

Enjoy the sunshine….but enjoy The Charlie Outdoor Charcoal Oven all year round! charlieoven.com @charliecharcoaloven 7 4 M AY 2 0 2 2

Look what’s blooming this spring...

Plants to brighten up your garden Whether you’re planting hanging baskets or containers, these garden favourites will be sure to brighten up your summer patio. Or if you fancy growing your own, take a look at our chilli range.

Join our Orchard Club Sign up in Centre to receive a 5% discount off all purchases in the Garden Centre and Cafe.

Locally grown Kent Dahlias

Tip: To produce more flowers, deadhead regularly, ideally weekly.

This ensures your plants put all their energy into making flowers rather than seeds. Simply remove each flower and cut back to a leaf joint.

Grown on our Nursery Chilli range

UK grown Nemesia

Cream tea from our Cornflower Café

Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white.

For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

coblandsgardencentre.co.uk Dryhill Lane, Sundridge, Sevenoaks, Kent TN14 6AA Tel: 01959 561274 All prices correct at time of going to press. While stocks last.

HOUSE & GARDEN

Victorian Renovation - Justine pictured in her clients kitchen

Barn Conversion - Living Room

BARKERDESIGN INTERIORS:

ANYTHING BUT VANILLA! For the last fourteen years, founder Justine Hodgson-Barker has worked on a range of homes implementing her signature style of laid-back interiors.

J

ustine’s skill for discovering vintage, artisan and new designer finds is what sets her designs apart in the industry. Her work has been featured in Living etc, Homes and Gardens and has recently made the much coveted ‘The List’; House and Gardens online directory featuring the best in design.

Mixing up pieces from different eras and creating that uncon-trived, eclectic look has become key to all her projects. ‘We’re constantly on the hunt for new sustainable materials, vintage pieces and love working with local artisans and ‘up and coming’ product designers to create unique one-off pieces.’

Central to their design philosophy is interpreting the client’s brief in designing original interiors that surpass trends. Justine and her team draw upon the lifestyle and personality of the client, creating spaces where the story continues unfolding long after they’ve left.

‘Every project is different, we tend attract the clients who don’t want to settle for ‘vanilla’,. They want their house to reflect them.’

very design savvy client whose enviable art collection framed the whole basis of the design’. Whilst the new edgy vibe suited the young family, it also respected the stunning features of 18thC Decimus Burton architecture. Barkerdesign mixed industrial, vintage and mid-century along with bespoke pieces. The rooms capture the eclectic look so favoured by the client’s favourite hotels of Soho House and The Greenwich Hotel in New York.

Giving Tradition an Edge This impressive villa (pictured right), lies in the heart of Tunbridge Wells. Justine explains, ‘This was a

Forever Home This Victorian renovation in Tunbridge Wells (pictured above right), was a total re-structure and

7 6 M AY 2 0 2 2

Space Planning This barn conversion in Lamberhurst (pictured above left), was all about maximis-ing space. The family room was a long unused living space, Justine said ‘Every inch within the space is fully utilised and task related now’. For the design they curated iconic mid-century pieces with bespoke elements and new designer finds. Be-spoke pieces like the new bar created a sociable space for the whole family to use, along with pool table and chill out areas, making those Friday nights during lockdown more entertaining!

Decimus Burton Villa - Dining Room

“Justine’s skill for discovering vintage, artisan and new designer finds is what sets her designs apart in the industry”

Decimus Burton Villa - Guest Bathroom

Victorian Renovation - Kitchen

extension. They considered carefully how this house would accommodate their growing family. This is their forever home, so they invested in good design and timeless pieces. Barkerdesign refurbished the house from floor to ceiling in a modern classic style. Muted colours, large format flagstone and antiqued flooring provided the perfect backdrop for bright pops of colour and statement lighting.

The client commented ‘Barkerdesign was a huge asset to our renovation project. We have been blown away,

“Central to their design philosophy is interpreting the client’s brief in designing original interiors that surpass trends”

Decimus Burton Villa - Landing

“Every project is different, we tend attract the clients who don’t want to settle for ‘vanilla’” THE DETAILS Barkerdesign

Jasper’s vibrant bedroom zoned for work, rest and play

Contact Barkerdesign to find out more visit www.barker-design.com or follow them on Instagram @barker_design

Wilf ’s bespoke bed, warm colours were used for a calm space

not only by how amazing our house looks, but also by how well it works for us as a family and how accurately it reflects our own individual taste.’

Designing for well-being As part of a family townhouse design Justine and her team worked on the design for two boys bedrooms (pictured above right and below left), both with very different styles and needs. Sensory design played a large part in this project. Justine said ‘It was incredibly rewarding design-ing for this wonderful family. All very different characters and all with specific needs that impact their well-being.’

Part of their eldest son’s condition affects the way he processes sensory information, so he needed a space that felt calm and safe. It was very much designed around his specific needs which really impacted his wellbeing. So warm enveloping colours and a den-like safe place to retreat to when feeling overwhelmed was key.

His brother needed a bedroom he could grow into with separate zones for work, rest and play. His parents explained that he was a very active child, so he needed a space that enabled him to channel his energies.

Barkerdesign zoned the play area with fake grass and created a social space to chill-out with his friends. One alcove was dedicated to a bespoke desk for homework.

Then came the key item, fitted wall apparatus for his workouts, which before bedtimes enabled him (and all the family) to have a peaceful night’s sleep!

‘I always say to my clients, if your friends comment ‘this is so you’ rather than ‘whose your interior designer’, then we’ve nailed the brief.

M AY 2 0 2 2 7 7

HOUSE & GARDEN

INTERIOR DESIGN OF THE

20

TH

CENTURY

Interior design has radically transformed the way we live in the 21st century. The revivalism of the Victorian era was swept aside by the Arts & Crafts Movement and Art Nouveau in the second half of the 19th century. Artists and designers were seeking homes that were unified works of art, where every aspect of the interior – from door handles to wallpaper and furniture – reflected the exterior architecture.

I

n Kent, Surrey and Sussex, architects such as Philip Webb of Morris & Company, Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott and Charles Voysey created outstanding examples of this fresh mindset, with commissions such as The Red House in Bexleyheath for William Morris and Standen in East Grinstead.

By the start of the 20th century, new influences from the Continent were impacting design around the globe. Art Nouveau, which began as a rejection of the status quo around 1895, drew on nature and reflected the sense of upheaval in society at that time.

By 1915, Art Nouveau had had its day and Art Deco was beginning. Following the First World War, it was clear that a new world had arrived and interior design expressed these dramatic changes. New materials such as tubular steel, chrome and plywood were employed for furniture, and geometric “moderne” designs reflected international travel and speed.

It was the 1925 Paris exhibition that put Art Deco firmly on the map and sleek, streamlined homes featured flat roofs with sun terraces.

This was a time of minimalism and the early influence of Charles Rennie Mackintosh can still be seen decades later. Come the 1950s and 1960s, space age shapes in vivid, primary colours swept into our homes as an antidote to the austerity of wartime utility furniture.

Shiny moulded plastics and vinyl, pop art and psychedelic patterns were soon being used in every room, creating a wild combination of the film sets from 2001: A Space Odyssey (shot in 1967) with hippy culture. Fashion, as usual, quickly changed and come the 1980s, Post-Modernism took its anti-authoritarian stance with the off-balance, mind-bending

7 8 M AY 2 0 2 2

Memphis Group in Italy leading the way.

Today, interior design comes in many styles, ranging from all-white, all-out minimalist rooms to retro takes on the 1970s through to the new maximalism and cottage core, which mix chintz with eclectic, vintage visions.

At The Design Gallery in Edenbridge we specialise in Arts & Crafts Movement, Art Nouveau and Art Deco and are often tempted by Mid Century Modern and later pieces where they are interesting, high quality examples of the era. We also offer a bespoke furniture service for contemporary pieces handmade by British craftsmen.

THE DETAILS The Design Gallery Unit1a Starborough Farm, Starborough Road, Marsh Green, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 5RB T: 01959 561234 Open Wednesday to Saturday 10am-5pm www.thedesigngallery.com Instagram: @designgalleryuk

HOUSE & GARDEN

Your Garden in May with Coblands Garden Centre Did you know that May is named after Maia, the Greek Goddess of growth, very apt as May is when our gardens really start to burst into colour and growth.

M

ay is one of the best times of year to be out in the garden. Enjoy being outside in the fresh air, the spring flowers in full bloom, an hour or two of sunshine and the promise of summer to come. With a little hard work now in your garden, you will reap the rewards later.

Jobs to do in May • Start to earth up early potatoes to maximise your crop.

• Sow salad crops every couple of weeks for a continuous supply through summer.

• Sow courgettes and runner beans inside ready to plant out next month.

• Sow annuals like cornflowers, poppies, sunflowers and zinnias.

• Mulch over beds to trap on moisture and suppress any annual weeds.

Our glass house in May is brimming with colour and scent as our summer bedding arrives. With our pre-selected cocktail colour bedding selections, packs of your summer favourites such as lobelia, marigolds, petunias and many more ready for you to plant up in baskets and containers.

If you are looking to feed the family and “Grow your own” our small pack veg and strawberries are lining our benches ready to be planted up, from plot to plate in 8 – 10 weeks you could be eating fresh salad straight from your garden.

Our popular locally Kent grown Dalia’s and Geraniums are back in stock and will add instant colour to containers and borders, plant up with Nemesia and trailing Petunias for a Summer display.

With the extra bank holiday for the Queens Platinum Jubilee, we can get you Jubilee ready, with our pre- planted containers and baskets, leaving you time to wash the summer furniture, fire up the BBQ ready to impress your friends and neighbours.

Our Cornflower café is now serving our summer menu, with quiches, salads, and handmade cakes, ready to tempt your tastebuds.

The team look forward to welcoming into our centre and helping you with any advice you need.

8 0 M AY 2 0 2 2

May is one of the best times of year to be out in the garden. Enjoy being outside in the fresh air, the spring flowers in full bloom THE DETAILS Coblands Garden Centre For more information visit www.coblandsgardencentre.co.uk or email info@coblandsgardencentre Telephone 01959 561274

HOUSE & GARDEN

WELCOME TO

THE ENGLISH

CHIMNEYPIECE

Are you looking for wood burning stove or bespoke fireplaces in Kent? If you are then let The English Chimneypiece be your number one choice today.

W

e can offer you both modern and classical style fireplaces, wood burning and multi fuel stoves that meet your every specification so you can be sure that, whatever it is you want, we are the perfect company for you Wood Burning, Multi Fuel Stoves and Fire Surrounds in Sevenoaks Our team are hugely experienced, with our business having been trading for over 20 years now, and so you can rest assured that you will receive workmanship of only the highest quality.

We pride ourselves on our close attention to detail which means every job receives our 100% dedication, along with our first rate customer care, where we put you and your requirements ahead of everything else.

Such is our vast level of experience, we are able to provide you with a huge range of services such as: • Wood Burning and Multi Fuel Stoves • Bespoke Fireplaces and Surrounds • Restoration and Reproduction of Fireplaces • Gas and Electric Fires Which are available in a wide range of top quality materials like stone, marble, granite, slate, wood and cast iron.

8 2 M AY 2 0 2 2

Fireplaces in Sevenoaks We are HETAS registered and we employ experienced, GAS SAFE registered engineers to prove our quality and increase you peace of mind.

Our staff give a professional yet friendly service and we are approachable for our clients which means we are able to work together to provide the perfect fireplace for them.

Our company is based in Sevenoaks, Kent. We serve both retail and trade clients, contractors, designers and insurance companies. With free quotations available, site surveys, as well as our popular image creation service, you can be sure that you will be 100% satisfied with the finish we provide you with. Our surrounds are made in Britain, hand crafted and, if required, made to measure. Our workshop is based in Kent.

THE DETAILS The English Chimneypiece 3 St. Botolph’s Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 3AJ 01732 740 811 english-chimneypiece.co.uk

HOUSE & GARDEN

“A veranda from SBI will bring a contemporary look that is sure to be the envy of all who visit”

TRANSFORMING YOUR

OUTDOOR SPACE

SBI Ltd (Sun Blind Installations) is a well-established company that was founded in 1998. They cover all aspects of Awning Veranda Carport Shutter Garage Door, supplies, installation servicing, and repair work.

S

BI are a family-run business and have teams of professional advisors and installers all over the country. They supply and install quality products for both homeowners and businesses alike, and are one of only a few companies in the UK that has a dedicated awning servicing and repair division of their business.

SBI offers a full contract installation service to private and trade customers who are not equipped or do not have sufficient time to carry out installations.

SBI’s contracts division deals with schools, colleges, universities, government buildings, hospitals, hotels, pubs, clubs, and restaurants, and can supply branding to any of their products from vinyl graphics to traditional hand-painted signwriting.

SBI Products SBI supply and install awnings, patio roofs, glass verandas, terrace covers, retractable all-weather pergolas, giant umbrellas, canopies, vertical screens, heating, lighting, and conservatory sail blinds. They can also supply and install top quality carports both lean-to, freestanding, and cantilever carports. To compliment their range, you can add a solar powered

8 4 M AY 2 0 2 2

garage door and side infill panels to enclose your structure.

THE DETAILS SBI Ltd For more information on what SBI can do and to book your veranda installation, get in touch today. Let them transform your garden or outdoor space.

Call SBI’s freephone number on 0800 0742 721, 24 hours a day to register your interest. sbi.install@btinternet.com www.sbiproducts.co.uk

Verandas Enhancing every outdoor space, verandas provide a place for you and your loved ones to enjoy your garden all year round. Whether you’re entertaining guests, relaxing after a long day at work or simply wanting to enjoy a drink or two with that special someone, having a veranda installed will inevitably provide your space with a boost.

SBI supply quality verandas to properties across the UK, attaching the product to your property and creating a space that is ideal for all types of outdoor entertainment. Able to be used all year round, the verandas that they supply keep you dry from rain and shaded from intense sun – meaning they’re the perfect space to relax, entertain and socialise no matter what the weather has in mind.

As well as the practical benefits that veranda installation will bring, they will also boost the aesthetics of your home’s exterior, providing it with a contemporary look that is sure to be the envy of all who visit.

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 Patrick Smith on 07932 608797.

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

fish media group

HOUSE & GARDEN

LATHAMS

SKIP

HIRE

Hiring us is a responsible decision if you genuinely care about where your refuse is going to end up

The professional choice for skip hire in Bromley and the surrounding areas of South East London and Kent

L

athams Skip Hire are a fully independent and family-owned business established in 1942. Still under the ownership and operation of the Latham family, we trade from the fully equipped Lathams Recycling Centre in Sydenham and cover an 8-mile radius of Bromley.

Our convenient location makes our business ideal for skip hire across Sydenham, Catford and all other areas in South East London. We have our own fleet of mechanical trucks that deliver skips to your home or commercial property on time, every time.

Looking for cheap domestic, commercial or industrial skip hire in Croydon? Trying to find a trusted and affordable skip rental firm across South London, the South East and South West? Look no further than Latham Skips.

With several years in the building waste removal trade, our professional team of experts can be on hand to assist with cheap skip hire – our fleet of vehicles and rubbish skip essentials can be on hand to help pick up all of your waste and trash whenever you need it removing.

Why Hire A Skip?

Professional, reliable skip hire in Bromley, Bexley or other surrounding areas of South East London should never have to be expensive – our cheap, affordable skip rental services are available throughout the year for commercial projects alike – meaning that we also support a wide range of skip sizes and prices to ensure you always get the best receptacle, skip bags and skip bins to fit your budget.

8 6 M AY 2 0 2 2

Rent a skip with us and you don’t just get a skip lorry – you get access to local skip experts who genuinely care.

We are experts in waste recycling too – meaning that hiring us is a responsible decision if you genuinely care about where your refuse is going to end up as we recycle 90 percent of waste.

Hire a skip for a day from us and you will save yourself a trip to the local dump – skip hire and recycling has never been so easy nor so affordable to arrange in Greenwich, Southwark, Lewisham or other areas inside South East London.

Latham Skips are here to support all of your needs and more.

THE DETAILS Lathams Skip Hire Call us today for a competitively priced quote on 0208 778 9008 and we’ll arrange a convenient delivery time to suit your personal or business project requirements. lathamskips.co.uk

FOOD &

DRINK – Bringing you updates on the local food & drinks scene – IMAG E : JUBILEE COOKBOOK

FOOD & DRINK

Chargrilled to Perfection With two other branches in North London, Aksular introduces its third authentic Turkish restaurant to Orpington.

T

his beautifully decorated, modern space, rich in earthy tones, with the occasional splash of vibrant colour gives you a warm welcome. Cool, bare brick walls are reminiscent of Cappadocia, while warm, wood mirrors and large windows reflect light through blue glass vases. So comforting is the space, there is no need to rush a light lunch or dinner with family or loved ones.

Aksular serves authentic Turkish cuisine, cooked in their own special charcoal oven in the state-ofthe-art open kitchen giving diners a truly live, dining experience. All dishes are freshly prepared in-house by a specialist team such as the Head Chef who came from one of the countries’ best restaurants. All ingredients are freshly prepared, even meat is brought

9 0 M AY 2 0 2 1

in from the own family butchers every day in Enfiled.

Favourite is one of the many house dishes, Lamb Kofte Iskender - lamb on a bed of bread and tomato sauce topped with yoghurt and generously drizzled with melted butter. All dishes are packed with spices and hints of their Turkish origin. If you’re looking for lighter selection then try the mouth-watering king prawns with sweet chilli sauce, or their avocado prawn salad.. Absolutely delicious!

If you want something a little more lively, then this is the perfect place to spend it whether for a celebration, birthday, wedding or engagement party. With the restaurant open until midnight at weekends, there is a real party vibe. Be entertained by traditional belly dancing on Friday and Saturday evenings, live music and a guest DJ every Saturday there is something for everyone to dance along to.

Aksular serves authentic Turkish cuisine, cooked in their own special charcoal oven in the state-of-the-art open kitchen THE DETAILS Aksular 105 High Street, Orpington, Orpington, Kent BR6 0LG Tel: 01689 898 000 www.aksularorpington.com

FOOD & DRINK

The Perfect Tribute F

Diplomat and foodie Ameer Kotecha has collated recipes from British embassies all over the world. By Prudence Wade.

ood is so much more than just nourishment – it can be an expression of your culture, amongst other things, and a powerful diplomatic tool.

Few people know this better than Ameer Kotecha, a junior diplomat who has written a Palace-approved Platinum Jubilee Cookbook to honour 70 years of the Queen’s reign.

Kotecha has a background in food – he “briefly flirted with the idea of being a professional chef ” before becoming a diplomat, working in Raymond Blanc’s Oxfordshire restaurant and running a pop-up restaurant.

“I’ve always had an interest in food, and I’ve been trying for a long time to find a way to bring food and diplomacy together,” he explains – and that’s exactly what Kotecha’s done in The Platinum Jubilee Cookbook. Rather than a run-down on what the Queen likes to eat, it’s a selection of recipes from British embassies all over the world – like a “Foreign Office recipe collection”, he says.

Kotecha is a big fan of the term ‘gastrodiplomacy’ and has seen it in action on postings to New York, West Africa and Hong Kong. When British embassies are trying to “bring negotiating partners around a table to thrash out a difficult issue… whether it’s trying to sit down with the French to talk through a policy issue, whether it’s sitting down

9 2 M AY 2 0 2 2

“You’d be unsurprised to hear the Palace are very cagey about sharing details of the Queen’s dietary preferences.” with the Iranians, or the Russians – so often the way we bring those parties together is by inviting them for a meal,” he explains.

Research for the book saw Kotecha speaking to British embassies all over the world, discovering the dishes they cook and their experiences with food.

Kotecha’s research also got him thinking about how food has changed over the Queen’s reign.

“There’s no denying 70 years ago – even less, maybe 20, 30 years ago – British food was, maybe not a laughing stock around the world, but pretty close to that,” he considers. “But actually, there’s been a huge change. Some foreigners in some countries still scorn British food, but actually British produce is really celebrated around the world now” – citing products such as Scotch whisky, Scottish salmon, Welsh lamb and English gins.

The Platinum Jubilee Cookbook by Ameer Kotecha is published by Jon Croft Editions, priced £30. Photography by David Loftus.

Available April 28.

CHISLEHURST

n w o T n I e t s a T The New

75%

HEALTHY PLANT BASED & VEGGIE MENU

Brunch • Lunch • Dinner 1ST FLOOR TERRACE NOW OPEN

27 High Street Chislehurst, BR7 5AE To book call: 0208 295 3495 or via www.fitologykitchen.com

FOOD & DRINK

Pretty pinks for sipping al fresco S Think Français for rosé, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

unshine, blue skies, parasols and a rapturous glass of rosé – this is what summer dreams are made of. And whether it’s a picturesque vineyard where time stands still (at least until the last sip!) or seaside charm on the sunny riviera, when it comes to ravishing rosé, France has the edge.

From the banks of Bordeaux to the beating heart of Provence, the lure of these fashionable pinks shows no sign of wavering – and why would it when you’ve already fallen for the charm of these chic, colourless wines before they’ve even hit the glass? And with a flurry of new vintage releases, there’s plenty to charge a rosecoloured crush right now. Here are seven rosés we’re lusting after right now…

Berry Bros & Rudd Provence Rosé 2021 by Château la Mascaronne, France, £14, Bbr.com If you long for a place in Provence nestled among the rolling hills, this fragrant rosé will take you there in a flash, with its attractive strawberry, apricot and red fruits underlined by a spicy note, which continues on the palate. Fresh with good concentration, the crushed berry fruits are supported by a streak of minerality with a creamy, silky finish.

Château Bel Air Perponcher Reserve 2020, Bordeaux, France, £9.95, The Wine Society Bordeaux may be the bedrock of fine wine but it’s also a winemakers’ playground.

Stylistically, they’re just as scintillating as their southern cousins – and this one is beautifully fresh and fragrant, with expressive strawberry aromas and ripe citrus notes supporting the dried berry flavours. Encore!

Château Minuty Rosé et Or, Côtes de Provence 2021, France, £25.95 (was £29.95), Secret Bottle Shop This elegantly styled rosé balances the scent of sweet ripe fruits with a beguiling seafront salinity to make you want to drink in those blue skies. A floral, blossomy nose, jasmine and touch of orange peel are complemented by flavours of pink grapefruit and fleshy stone fruits, with crisp acidity on the finish.

Sea Change Provence Rosé 2020, AOC, Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence, France, £16.99, Sea Change Sea Change supports marine charities and conservation projects to help tackle issues like plastic pollution – and drinking for a good cause has never been so pleasurable. This top drop boasts zesty grapefruit allied with perfectly ripe peach, a creamy body, fresh minerality and perfect balance of fruit. Delicious.

9 4 M AY 2 0 2 2

Madame F Rosé 2020 x Queer Britain, Rosé Blend, France, £10 Delightfully fruity profile, soft, wellbalanced acidity and loads of juicy red berries on the nose. Fresh, fashionable and a real crowd-pleaser, not only do we love the quirky ‘Susy the Frog’ label, it’s a collaboration between Madame F and Queer Britain, a charity working to create the UK’s first national LGBTQ+ museum.

FOOD & DRINK

THE LANGHAM, LONDON launches new Afternoon Tea collection

T

he Langham, London has launched a brand-new afternoon tea collection, as part of a series of teas in Palm Court, inspired by the nation’s favourite biscuits.

An established member of London’s afternoon tea scene, Palm Court has served up some of the finest cakes and pastries for over a century, putting a modern twist on classic favourites.

Priced from £65pp, guests can expect a truly decadent spread of delights, with the menu overseen by Michel Roux Jr. and created by Executive Pastry Chef Andrew Gravett.

The elegant interpretations of classic biscuits include the Crème de la Crème reimagining of a Custard Cream with a dulcey chocolate shell, intense Madagascan vanilla cream, caramel cake, and éclat. The Pink Wafer at Palm Court features Ivoire and poppy crunch, coquelicot cremeux and seasonal rhubarb, whilst the Fancy a Fondant? take on the French Fancy combines camomile cream, baba, and granny smith compote. Chocolate enthusiasts will delight in the Mini Roll inspired confection comprising Valrhona Caraïbe 66% sponge and unctuous chocolate nama, and the Tiffinesque – chocolate sponge topped with caramelised white chocolate cream, marshmallow, and hazelnuts.

These sweet treats are all served alongside traditional delicate finger sandwiches including Classic cucumber, cream cheese and chive, Roast beef, caramelised onions and stilton and Hot smoked salmon, sour cream and dill. There is also a selection of freshly baked scones, with a savoury option of Ploughman’s cheese scone with Isle of Mull cheddar and tamarind chutney, followed by

9 6 M AY 2 0 2 2

plain and raisin scones served with Cornish clotted cream and seasonal preserves.

The drink offering is just as impressive as the food, and guests can explore an extensive range of teas with the assistance of the tea sommelier.

For an additional £10pp diners can try COPENHAGEN Organic sparkling tea or add a glass of English sparkling wine from Gusbourne for £15pp or a glass of Taittinger Brut Reserve for £21pp.

The Langham, London has an unrivalled location at the top of Regent Street. The Langham’s bars and restaurants include the award-winning Palm Court, Artesian Bar, Landau restaurant and The Wigmore, all overseen by culinary icon Michel Roux Jr. langhamhotels.com/en/the-langham/london

THE DETAILS Opening times: Thursday-Sunday 12:30pm-5pm For more details visit palm-court.co.uk For bookings email reservations@palmcourt.co.uk Or telephone 020 7636 1000 Palm Court, The Langham, 1C Portland Place, London W1B 1JA

OUR FAMILY TEAM ARE ABLE TO ASSIST WITH: Divorce and separation Children matters Cohabitee disputes Complex financial arrangements Pre-nuptial agreements.

01689 887 828 claire.schneck@cwj.co.uk 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.