Life Magazines (Kent editions) April 2018

mayfield school Inspiring, nurturing, ambitious.

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APRIL ISSUE THE TEAM PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD

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© 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.

Editor Faye Manning ••••• Editorial Assistant Katie Miller ••••• Sub Editor Ben Jones ••••• Fashion Editor Lewis Casserley ••••• Design & Production Lisa Wade ••••• business development managers Tim Lees, Lisa Westerman ••••• SALES Vanessa Lane, Anita Hill ••••• Accounts & admin Kathy Manning, Ken Fleet ••••• Directors Rory Smith, Patrick Smith

CONTENTS OUT & ABOUT

13

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE

37

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

49

HOUSE & GARDEN

65

FOOD & DRINK

75

We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month The finest independent schools in the UK Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best Keep it local for everything house and home Bringing you updates on the local food and drink scene

0844 800 8439

www.thelifemagazines.com

out & about – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – im a g e : e a s t e r h o l i d ay f a mi ly f u n at I g h t h a m M ot e

OUT & ABOUT

[ e v e n t s ]

OUT & ABOUT

18 april

The Asparagus plot Have you ever wondered if asparagus is difficult to grow, and if it suffers from pests and diseases’ Join us to find out how we grow ours. Booking not needed. Assistance 2pm-3pm.

Both at Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 8JN

until 6 april

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt Solve the clues, follow the trail and claim your chocolate prize over the Easter holiday. Follow the Cadbury trail through Knole Park, learning about the variety of birds that make the park their home. Find the wooden bird boxes, solve the clues and claim your chocolate Easter egg at the end.

Different trails available for children aged 3-5 years and 7-12 years.

Knole, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0RP

14 APRIL 2018

13 April

Craft and Pamper Room End of term and holiday fun for families! Let the kids create with a jewellery workshop and crafts

by Maleficent Things while the grown ups catch up over a cuppa... and enjoy a pamper with a mini treatment by Elle-ite Nails and Beauty. Lots of fun crafts for boys and girls from ÂŁ1. 10am-1pm Drop in, no booking needed.

Friday Market, St Francis Church Hall, Ravenswood Avenue, Kent BR4 0PW

OUT & ABOUT

[events]

22 APRIL

OUT & ABOUT “Don’t miss the catwalk fashion show at midday where you can see some amazing styles in wedding dresses, bridesmaids and menswear”

St Augustine’s Priory Wedding Show Having a marquee for your wedding reception is always a bonus and this can be themed according to your choice and style. Don’t miss the catwalk fashion show at midday where you can see some amazing styles in wedding dresses, bridesmaids and menswear. There will be many local wedding specialists exhibiting who will be available to discuss your big day with you, they will be able offer advice and many have on the day promotions. With your FREE entry you will get a free goody bag along and also get a chance to win a fabulous prize from the FREE draw.

10.30am - 3.00pm Bilsington Priory Estate, Priory Road, Bilsington, Near Ashford, Kent, TN25 7AU

3-15 April

until 15 April

Easter Holiday family fun Keep the kids entertained during the holidays with our house quiz, craft activities, garden trail and the chance to go wild in our natural play area. For the more adventurous, why not explore our estate on one of our three way-marked walks, with the help of our seasonal activity pack? Plus special craft activities on Themed Thursdays. (5 April: Birds nest craft; 12 April: Owl Bookmark.)

Ightham Mote, Mote Road, Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0NT

Easter Garden Trail How many Spring themed children’s poems do you know? Come and find them hidden in our garden. Pick up your trail sheet from the visitor centre. 10am - 4.30pm, £2.50 per trail sheet (includes small prize). Pay on the day.

Hall Place & Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQ

15 April

11-15, 18-22 & 25-29 April

Quebec House - Guided house tours Discover the interesting stories behind Quebec House and its famous occupant.

Delve into the history of General James Wolfe and life in Georgian times on a half hour tour of Quebec House. Tickets are available from 11am from the Coach House. Want to see the house at your own pace? The house will open free-flow from 1pm.

Quebec House, Quebec Square, Westerham, Kent TN16 1TD 16 APRIL 2018

Copton Ash - Open Garden for NGS Visit this beautiful garden grown out of a love and fascination with plants, open for NGS. It contains a very wide collection including many rarities and newly introduced species raised from wild seed. There is a special interest in pretty woodland flowers, snowdrops and hellebores with flowering trees and shrubs of spring. Refreshed Mediterranean plantings to adapt to a warming climate. Raised beds with choice alpines and bulbs.

Plus, a small alpine nursery.

Open for charity.

Copton Ash, Faversham, Kent ME13 8XW

7 april

Farmers’ Market at The Heritage Transport Show The Heritage Transport Show will be held again at the Kent Showground.

As well as a fantastic display of vintage vehicles you can now get your fill of local food. Pop along and enjoy the day and the food. 10am – 4pm Kent County Show Ground, Detling Hill, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3JF

OUT & ABOUT

[events]

OUT & ABOUT THROUGHOUT APRIL

Bridge Works: Crossing the River Medway – A story of the Rochester Bridge Trust The Rochester Bridge Trust has provided and maintained crossings of the River Medway for more than 600 years with the first bridge on the site built almost 2,000 years ago - but there is still much that remains unknown about the organisation among the general public, as visitors to the Bridge Works exhibition will discover. Telling the story of the crossings that have helped shape the Medway area and the organisation that owns and looks after them, the free exhibition will take place in the newly restored crypt at Rochester Cathedral. The cathedral crypt will house the main exhibition, taking visitors through the ages as they follow the changing shape of Rochester’s bridges. While across the hall Langdon’s Den - home of education mascot Langdon the Lion - will house a series of fun and educational civil engineering activities for children.

The Crypt, Rochester Cathedral, Rochester, Kent ME1 1SX

5 april

Peter Rabbit Workshop Hop along to the Farm Shop to make a fun Peter Rabbit charm bracelet or bag dangler. Then decorate a pot before planting your own carrots to grow on at home! Just be sure to watch out for Mr McGregor... For ages 5-9+ Includes: all materials and tuition. Cost: £12. Book online at ticketlab.co.uk/event/id/1185 Layhams Farm Shop Layham’s Road Keston Kent BR2 6AR

8 APRIL

Lenham Country Market Lenham Country Market is held on the second Sunday of the month. It’s open to the public between 9am and 1pm and is held in Lenham Square. There a variety of local food, drink and crafts available Free entry.

Lenham Square, Lenham, Kent, ME17 2PG

13-14 april

22 april

Plant Fair Roadshow - Spring Show A very popular spring event with a collection of specialist nurseries offering a wide range of bulbs, perennials, herbs, shrubs and trees. Plus the Plant Doctor who can offer advice on a wide range of horticultural matters. Open 10am - 3pm.

Hall Place and Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PG

22 april

Boldshaves - Open Garden for NGS Ornamental trees and shrubs, walled garden, Italian garden, Diamond Jubilee garden, camellia dell, herbaceous borders (incl flame bed, red borders and rainbow border), bluebell walks in April, woodland and ponds. Admission £6, Children free. 2pm-6pm.

Telephone: 01233 860302. Open for charity.

Boldshaves, nr Ashford Kent, TN26 3RA 18 APRIL 2018

Bat walk Set off on a dusk walk in Knole Park to find our resident bats with an expert ecologist. Learn all about these fascinating creatures and use detectors to find them in the beautiful parkland. Bat detectors will be provided, but please bring your own torch.

Warm up with hot chocolate and marshmallows afterwards and put your questions to our bat expert.

The bat walk will last one hour, followed by 30 minutes for drinks and questions. Booking Essential, call 0344 249 1895. Starts at 7.30pm, end 9.15pm. Please meet at 7.30pm at the outdoor picnic area for a 7.45pm start. Check website for latest information: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole Knole, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0RP

OUT & ABOUT

Birdsong: A testament of love and courage amongst the horrors of war Written by Georgia Lambert

C

ommemorating the centenary of the Armistice of the First World War, Rachel Wagstaff ’s highly acclaimed adaptation of Sebastian Faulks’ bestselling novel Birdsong has embarked on its final UK tour.

The cast is headed by Tom Kay, Madeleine Knight and Liz Garland as Stephen Wraysford, Isabelle Azaire and her sister Jeanne Fourmentier.

Tom Kay appeared to great acclaim in the production of Journey’s End, performed on the infamous Ypres battlefield. Madeleine Knight’s television and film credits include Poldark and Florence Foster Jenkins. Liz Garland’s credits include Talking Scarlet’s The Ghost Train and Milkshake Mums Campaign (Channel 5).

The sentiments of love and loss feature heavily in Birdsong, set before, during and after the First World War. Intertwined with the traumatic horrors of trench warfare on the front line and in the tunnels underneath the Battle of The Somme, lie epic and enigmatic stories of intimacy and love between the British soldier, Stephen Wraysford and the people he encounters. Although fictitious, the story depicts the vulnerabilities and strengths of real people with beautiful sincerity, humour and wit as they each fathom their purpose in life.

Birdsong is a multifaceted production, shining light on different social issues of the early 20th Century that are still culturally relevant today; the brutality and unnecessary loss of life in war; human psychology and the treatment and role of women.

The performance flickers between the trenches in 1916 and Stephen’s memories of his passionate and somewhat dangerous love affair with Isabelle Azaire back in pre-war France. “Anyone who has experienced the intensity of first love will relate to the nature of their relationship. It is all consuming and fuelled by desire. Although Stephen provides her with an escape from an abusive marriage, Catholic guilt drives her actions and decisions,” commented Madeleine Knight.

“Isabelle is a passionate and free-spirited soul.

She loves deeply and has an intense sense of duty however much the consequences make her despair.

The character she is forced to assume out of oppression is stoic but brittle,” Madeleine said.

20 APRIL 2018

“The sentiments of love and loss feature heavily in Birdsong, set before, during and after the First World War”

“Her sister on the other hand is selfless, intelligent and bold” said Liz Garland. “Jeanne approaches love with practicality and loyalty but doesn’t want to settle into marrying a man she doesn’t love. She wants a love of equality and respect and is willing to stand alone if she doesn’t find that.”

When discussing how the war affected women, Liz commented on Jeanne’s experience. “In Jeanne’s words – ‘the war has set me free’. Women were no longer confined to the roles of wives and mothers but instead could find meaningful positions in society, assuming roles previously taken by men.

Women were able to push past the boundaries of the treatment they were subjected to and discover the untapped pool of resource within themselves.”

Birdsong is a universal story of love and it reminds us what it is to be human. We are among the last generations that have first-hand connections to that living history. As Liz expressed, “Our act of remembrance is an act of thankfulness, their lives mattered and their actions have shaped who we are today. This production is a poignant reminder of the importance of the First World War.” churchilltheatre.co.uk Photography: Jack Ladenburg

OUT & ABOUT

Funn y G u y Joe Pasquale on being Frank Spencer, living dangerously and a naughty on-stage habit…

What can people expect from the stage show of Some Mothers Do ‘Av ‘Em? Proper family comedy that is set in the 70s and is so funny that you will laugh solidly for two hours.

T

oo young to have seen Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em during its heyday of the 1970s, Guy is nevertheless a huge fan of Raymond Allen’s classic TV sitcom.

“I saw re-runs and I love it; the slapstick, the situations and the character of Frank, who is one of the great British underdogs. We sort of want him to fail because it is funny when he does, but we root for him to succeed too. Frank has the energy and loyalty of a Labrador puppy combined with the morals of his late overprotective mother,” Working together on Spamalot in the West End two years ago, Guy recalls how actor and comedian Joe Pasquale blew up an electric fan in a bid to mend it. Inadvertently creating a moment that was straight out of Some Mothers (a BANG! followed by the smell of singed hair and a look of electrified bewilderment on Joe’s face), the idea for Joe to play Frank in a stage version was born and Guy and Joe joined forces to drive the project forwards.

Writing the script was a particular privilege for Guy, who after studying Industrial Economics at the University of Nottingham won the Directors Guild of Great Britain award for Best New Director. Following postgraduate training and the mentorship of leading theatre directors on numerous productions in the West End and at the Royal Shakespeare Company, he is now regarded as one of Theatre’s brightest young talents. A huge fan of British comedy and with an encyclopaedic knowledge of the subject, Guy says that he had clear ideas about the Some Mothers stage play from the outset.

“I was very keen that it shouldn’t just be a re-run of old episodes, so it is based on a particular point in Frank’s life, when Betty was trying to tell him she is pregnant. I knew it had to be something written specifically for the stage - something that would work in a theatre. What we have now is quite a traditional British farce, with surprises. It is two hours in real time, set one evening when they are expecting people for dinner. Chaos ensues!” he teases, refusing to give more away.

22 APRIL 2018

Agreeing that there seems to have been a developing trend for theatrical comedies in recent times, Guy explains why that might be. “We’ve spent a lot of time in the last few years discussing what we shouldn’t be laughing at. Watching something that makes us laugh and feel warm is a reaction to that, I think.”

And with Joe playing the hapless Frank it seems that laughter is guaranteed.

“I loved working with Joe on Spamalot. He’s just a fantastic spirit in a room; such a hard worker and great natural comedian, but also a technician.

He, I’m glad to say, likes working with me too. I wouldn’t do this without him,” says Guy, confirming that Joe’s Frank won’t be a carbon copy of Michael Crawford’s original character.

“Michael was brilliant; iconic. It is difficult to imagine another Frank Spencer, so it needed somebody who was really going to make Frank their own. Joe is perfect. Interestingly, the role of Frank was originally offered to Norman Wisdom before Michael Crawford. Norman was 57 at the time, so while Joe is older than Michael, he’s not as old as Norman was when he was considered for the part.”

With tickets selling faster than Frank Spencer on roller skates, the mood music suggests the show will amass new devotees at every performance of every date of the six-month national tour.

Vicky Edwards© www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

In the original TV series there were a lot of crazy stunts. How about the stage show?

I’m doing it all – hanging by my ankles, chicken chasing and all sorts. If it’s not dangerous or life threatening I’m not interested anymore.

Michael Crawford is inexorably linked with the character of Frank Spencer. Will you be imitating his performance?

No. That would be an insult to Michael. I will be projecting my own personality on to the role.

When we did the final workshop we had an invited audience. All the younger people didn’t know the show or have a frame of reference with Michael, but they laughed their socks off. Even the older people who remember the original forgot Michael doing it in within five minutes – the script is so good.

Do you find touring life tiring?

Touring in Some Mothers will be a lot easier than my stand-up show, when a tour is usually forty onenighters. A week in one place will be like a holiday.

Got any nicknames?

Sarah Earnshaw who plays Frank’s wife Betty calls me The Unstoppable Moron.

What’s your most unappealing habit?

I am terrible for farting onstage.

What’s your philosophy for life?

Feel the fear and do it anyway.

You’re a long time dead; you might as well live while you can.

OUT & ABOUT

Spring season at the Churchill Theatre

T

he Life Magazines Kent went along to the Churchill Theatre Spring Season Brochure Launch in March to hear more about the exciting programme of new shows scheduled this Season.

With a line up featuring everything from dance to comedy, drama to musical theatre, the Churchill Theatre’s Spring programme is sure to feature something for everyone.

Guest speakers at the launch event included Producer of Rock Of Ages, Dan Looney, Manager of Birmingham Stage Company, Neil Foster, who is bringing Awful Auntie to the Churchill stage this May, and Danielle Tarento, Producer of brand-new musical Titanic.

Guests were given an insight into these exciting productions with a behind the scenes look at casting and set design, before enjoying a fantastic performance of The Jungle Book.

There is plenty of drama programmed this season with hilarious classic comedy The Importance of Being Earnest and the thrilling Gallowglass, both in April.

Brand-new musical Summer Holiday, based on the iconic Cliff Richard film, comes to the Churchill Theatre in June. Jump aboard the sensational new musical, Titanic in July, followed by the stunning classic and Bromley favourite Evita. What a feeling you’ll have when you catch legendary 80’s film Flashdance

24 APRIL 2018

live on stage in August, before Willy Russell’s classic musical Blood Brothers comes to the Churchill in September.

The venue continue to provide world class entertainment for all the family to enjoy including this season including, Teletubbies, Awful Auntie, What The Ladybird Heard and Little Baby Bum. With over 39,000 theatregoers attending pantomime at the Churchill Theatre each festive season it’s never too early to book for this year’s pantomime, Cinderella. Packed with all of the traditional pantomime ingredients audiences expect, Cinderella features laugh out loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and plenty of boos and hisses. Join Cinders as she goes from rags to riches, outwits her very ugly sisters and meets her dashing Prince Charming.

The Churchill Theatre hospitality team continue to provide top quality service to enhance the customer experience at the Churchill Theatre. Reserve your seats at The Bar & Kitchen, the new full service restaurant, and don’t forget that you can order you interval drinks and ice creams on the Churchill Theatre Preoday App, available in the App and Google Play stores. The venue also programme unique dining events in their season programme.

Upcoming events include Only Fools and Three Courses, murder mystery Dead Over Dinner and perfect girls night out, Ladies Night.

THE DETAILS For more information on the Churchill Theatre’s jam-packed season, visit churchilltheatre.co.uk.

OUT & ABOUT

Are you entitled to a fee refund for your Lasting Power of Attorney?

I

f you paid to register a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) or an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) in England or Wales between 1 April 2013 and 31 March 2017, you will be able to apply for a partial refund.

When a LPA or EPA is registered, an application fee is payable to the government body, the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG). Between 2013 and 2017 the costs of the OPG decreased. However, the application fee of £110 stayed the same. It is for this reason that the Government is now repaying the difference as the fee is only to cover operating costs.

It is thought that 1.7 million applications could be affected.

How to make a claim?

Claims must be made by 31 January 2021 by the person who made the power of attorney (the donor) or the appointed attorney, although the refund must be paid back to the donor. If the donor

26 APRIL 2018

has died the executors are able to make the claim by emailing the OPG the death certificate and a grant of representation (such as grant of probate or letters of administration) or a Will.

How much you can reclaim depends on when the power of attorney was registered. You will also receive 0.5% interest.

You may claim online or by telephone. In order to claim you will need the Power of Attorney or a copy of it and bank account details for the Donor.

For telephone claims you can contact the Office of the Public Guardians refund helpline on 0300 456 0300.

On 1 April 2017, the application fee for registering a power of attorney was reduced from £110 to £82. If you registered after that date you will not be able to make a claim.

If you have not got an LPA and are considering setting one up please speak to us, we can help. www.cwj.co.uk

Scott Walker

“How much you can reclaim depends on when the power of attorney was registered”

OUT & ABOUT

“How do we get in?”

Discover The Waterfront Enclosure During Henley Regatta 2018

THE DETAILS The Waterfront Enclosure during Henley Royal Regatta 2018 Wednesday 4th July – Saturday 7th July 2018 10.30am – 5.30pm Pricing and all-inclusive package details: Wednesday £249.00 + vat Thursday £289.00 + vat Friday £299.00 + vat Saturday £249.00 + vat Includes free car parking, complimentary regatta programme and live rowing commentary.

Bookings available on 01635 200 200 or by email to jaz@thewildfork.co.uk www.thewildfork.co.uk The Wild Fork, The Old Cart Shed, Haw Farm, Hampstead Norreys, Berkshire RG18 0TP

28 APRIL 2018

T

hese were the words on everyone’s lips last year at Henley Regatta 2018 as they stumbled across the exclusive Waterfront Enclosure.

Located by the iconic start line opposite beautiful Temple Island, The Waterfront Enclosure run by stylish event and catering company The Wild Fork is emerging as the place to be at the world famous sporting event.

The eye-catching stretch tent and idyllic English country garden add style and atmosphere to a perfect summer’s day out, either for entertaining corporate guests and colleagues or for gathering friends and family for a real treat.

Arrive mid-morning in time for champagne and a classic Pimms with delicious pastries, fresh juices, miniature English breakfasts and healthy granola, yoghurt and fruit compote pots on offer too.

Friendly, attentive staff are on hand to ensure guests quickly unwind with soft, live music playing in the background.

A 4 course lunch is served from 12.30pm onwards, shared across banqueting tables with views of the river and the team of chefs impressively working the wood-fired ovens. Expect overflowing platters of gin and elder cured salmon as well as rabbit rillette, duck liver parfait, smoked pigeon and celeriac remoulade to start. To follow, mouthwatering lamb with orzo, spring greens, tzatziki and flat breads and deliciously tender chicken accompanied by Israeli couscous, heritage tomatoes and tabbouleh. A selection of miniature English classic desserts and a fine cheese board complete the feast.

The inspired bar stocked with thoughtfully selected wines, spirits, summer cocktails and craft ales remains at guests’ disposal for the rest of the day before afternoon tea is served - a temptation too irresistible to miss.

Tickets are selling fast so see below for booking information plus don’t miss out on a 10% discount for all early bird bookings made before the end of April. Quote TWFHENMAGOFFER

OUT & ABOUT

DC EXHIBITION: DAWN OF SUPER HEROES

Above: Costume From The Joker and costume from Batman

The O2, Until 9 September

THE DETAILS ‘DC Exhibition: Dawn of Super Heroes’ Open until 9 September 2018 Tickets: Adult £22/Child £11/Concession £19.80/Family of 3 £39.60/ Family of 4 £55/Family of 5 £60.50.

All tickets are subject to a booking fee To book, please visit www.DCExhibition.co.uk Facebook: @DCexhibitionUK Twitter: @DCexhibitionUK

F

ollowing a successful run in Paris, 2018 sees the London premiere of ‘DC Exhibition: Dawn of Super Heroes’, a unique exhibition presented by DC Entertainment and Warner Bros. Consumer Products in collaboration with Art Ludique-Le Musée. Opened on 23 February at The O2, this one-of-a-kind exhibition celebrates DC’s rich history, unique mythology and iconic Super Heroes and Super Villains such as Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, The Joker, The Penguin and Mr. Freeze.

The Exhibition brings fans closer to the world’s most iconic characters and features more than 200 original comic pages, around 300 preparatory sketches and concept artworks for the cinema, together with 45 original costumes, models and props used in the iconic films. Fans visiting will be able to walk through the exhibition, which runs in chronological order, with each room offering guests a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the mythical DC Universe.

‘DC Exhibition: Dawn of Super Heroes’ features: • Exclusive artworks from the highly-acclaimed Wonder Woman film, directed by Patty Jenkins, that premiered in the summer of 2017.

• Costumes and props from more recent films such as; 1989 to 1999’s Batman franchise directed by Tim Burton and Joel Schumacher, the acclaimed The Dark Knight trilogy directed by Christopher

30 APRIL 2018

Nolan, as well as The Man of Steel, Batman V Superman and the recent Justice League by Zack Snyder.

• Original drawings of DC’s stable of famous Super Heroes and Super Villains.

• Original costumes from blockbuster DC films including the famous cape worn by Christopher Reeve in the Superman movies and Lynda Carter’s iconic Wonder Woman costume from the 1970s.

The exhibition showcases almost a century of artistic creations that followed the introduction of an innovative new genre imagined by two adolescents from Cleveland, Joe Shuster and Jerry Siegel, the creators of Superman. First introduced in Action Comics #1 in 1938, Superman, the world’s first Super Hero, quickly revolutionised the era, influencing art, literature, fashion, TV and film.

While Superman is a tireless champion dedicated to protecting life and battling injustice with his array of superpowers and abilities, Batman is a mortal man fighting crime using his intellect, physical training, and an arsenal of gadgets and vehicles.

They are two opposites - the near-god and simple mortal.

However, this contemporary mythology would not have been complete without the fundamental presence of Wonder Woman, a character who became a trailblazer and symbol for peace, justice and equality. Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman became the foundation for the genre on which all subsequent Super Heroes are based.

OUT & ABOUT

THE RITZ LONDON TOASTS THE 2018 SEASON

WITH A SERIES OF BEST OF BRITISH CELEBRATIONS

T

he Ritz London, the iconic Piccadilly landmark, has been at the heart of the British social calendar since the hotel first opened its doors in 1906. Continuing to play host to Royalty, aristocracy and stars of the stage and screen throughout its distinguished history, The Ritz has deservedly taken its rightful place amongst the great hotels of the world.

To cement its position at the heart of London society and as the bastion of Britishness, guests of The Ritz will be able to enjoy the social season essentials in 2018 with a number of new and bespoke quintessentially British experiences, with which the hotel is intrinsically linked.

The Ritz London’s seasonal calendar begins on Monday 21st May with RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

The two-night accommodation package begins with a three-course dinner in one of the private dining rooms in adjoining 18th century William Kent House, prepared by Michelin-starred Executive Chef John Williams MBE and his brigade.

On Tuesday 22nd May, guests will be transported, by private chauffeur driven car, to Chelsea Flower Show for a full day of hospitality within the Jardin Blanc by Raymond Blanc, which includes: • Hot and Cold Breakfast on arrival • A one-hour private tour of the show with a horticulturist • A Champagne reception followed by four-course lunch with wine-pairings selected by a Master Sommelier

32 APRIL 2018

• Afternoon Tea • Bespoke botanically-themed cocktails • A complimentary bar throughout the day (including Champagne, wines, beer and soft drinks) and musical entertainment The Ritz London are also offering luxury accommodation packages for Royal Ascot and Wimbledon 2018.

For further information or to make a reservation, please telephone the Reservations Team on 020 7493 8181 or email reservations@theritzlondon.com or online at www.theritzlondon.com

“Guests of The Ritz will be able to enjoy the social season essentials in 2018 with a number of new and bespoke quintessentially British experiences”

OUT & ABOUT

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What makes a great sixth form?

Successfully navigating the leap from GCSE to A Level

S

ixth form is a key period of academic, social and emotional development. There is a seismic shift in expectations for independent study and wider research, as well as the constant thoughts of future paths.

It is important to remember that educating young adults requires a fine balance between focusing on developing a passion for their subjects but also a curiosity for, and the strength of character to deal with, the working world beyond.

Good Sixth Forms offer: • high quality, inspiring teaching • an innovative curriculum • outstanding pastoral care and support • the ability to role model leadership • higher education and careers guidance • the understanding that equally important to academic success is the participation in co-curricular activities to develop a well-rounded, balanced sense of self.

It is widely agreed by business leaders that schools should focus on employability skills as

well as attainment. “Young people must impress with their willingness to learn, commitment and motivation. New recruits must show they can work in a team, communicate, solve problems and have commercial awareness.” Director of Global Student Recruitment, Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.

At Sydenham High School Sixth Form we set high targets to foster ambition, but equally value the personal skills which make students successful in life. We are educating them not only for further education and careers but to be valuable citizens. Of course academic results matter but it is the education of the whole girl that creates a young person who is ready to take on the challenges of further education or the leap straight into industry.

Alongside A Level studies, the Extended Project Qualification and Stretch Programme enrich our girls’ learning by fostering critical thinking, problem solving, creativity and social development, and our Professional Skills Programme provides all

year 12 students with specialist training in corporate communication, matching each student with a professional ‘mentor’ whilst completing a selfdirected project in order to build on and develop their work skills.

At Sydenham High, our Sixth Form is very much the jewel in our crown. Our girls are role models and leaders to the lower years and are ambitious and confident about their futures. They are curious, considerate and fearless, often exceeding their own expectations.

To find out more about joining our unique Sixth Form visit sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net/sixthform or call 020 8557 7000.

INDEPENDENT

SCHOOLS GUIDE – The finest independent schools in the UK – im a g e : BR E AS I D E P R E P

Pastoral Care and Living Faith

EDUC ATION

40 APRIL 2018

“P

upils throughout the school have a highly developed spiritual understanding; their appreciation of the Catholicity of the school permeates every aspect of its life”. (ISI 2016) Bishop Challoner School is a Catholic school which welcomes and respects all faiths. We have a warm welcoming atmosphere where Christian values permeate the life of the school. We celebrate Mass at various times during the school year and we support and guide all our pupils in their own faith journey through Mass, assemblies and retreats.

We take pride in our reputation for outstanding pastoral care. The overall level of discipline amongst the pupils is high and the school has a very friendly atmosphere where everyone is treated as an individual whose opinions are valued. The Key Stage Co-ordinators oversee the pastoral welfare of each individual and work closely with the form tutor to ensure that support is provided.

To further support the spiritual life in school, a School Chaplain, Gerard Lohan, was appointed in 2017. Mr Lohan joins the school’s pastoral team in looking after the welfare of our pupils. Mr Lohan has over 9 years’ experience working with young people, which has included supporting people who have addictions, some prison ministry but mainly in the education sector. Earlier in his career, Mr Lohan took some time off from paid employment and spent a year working as a volunteer for a youth mission team, visiting schools throughout the UK and running retreats.

‘Working at Bishop Challoner as their first appointed Lay Chaplain is a wonderful opportunity.

I am hoping, with the support of pupils, staff and parents, to develop a comprehensive chaplaincy programme, tailored to meet the needs of this inspirational Catholic school, to provide a wide range of opportunities for spiritual growth and development, for the whole community. I am also hoping to develop stronger links with our local parishes and the wider community.

Please keep me in your prayers as I serve this very special community.’ – Gerard Lohan, School Chaplain Visit us on our Open Door Afternoon: Friday 18th May at 1.45-3.00pm. www.bishopchallonerschool.com

Bishop Challoner School Shortlands

A Catholic Independent School for Girls & Boys 3 -18 Years

2018 Admissions

2017available Admissions Limited places for 2018 entry • Senior • for Sixth2017 Form entry LimitedNursery places• Junior available

Nursery Juniorcommitment ▪ Senior ▪ Sixth “Pupils’▪ personal to the school Form

and the local community is very strong, Contact Admissions tothey book visit: admissions@bishopchallonerschool.com areabeacons for the school in the community”. (ISI 2016) Senior Scholarships available

Contact Admissions to book a visit: admissions@bishopchallonerschool.com

Welcoming all faiths

www.bishopchallonerschool.com www.bishopchallonerschool.com

Welcoming all faiths

EDUC ATION

Breaside Preparatory School Outstanding Education - Excellent Results

Breaside Preparatory School, located in Bromley, Kent, prepares pupils from 2½ to 11 years for both Grammar and Independent Senior Schools in a caring and nurturing environment.

O

nce again, SATs and 11+ entry results were outstanding, and for three years now our Year 6 pupils have all gained their first choice at Senior School.

Parents are given guidance on the schools that we recommend for their children throughout their time at Breaside and we pride ourselves on getting the children into the right school for them as individuals.

Breaside reach new heights of SATisfaction!

The Sunday Times Schools Guide 2018, ranks the 2,000 top schools in the UK. The guide is based on exams results and features both independent and state schools. Breaside were ranked 16th best school in the country. Executive Principal, Karen Nicholson said: “We are very pleased to share with you that we have been placed 16th in the Sunday Times Top 100 Independent Schools list - an absolutely fantastic achievement of which we are incredibly proud! It is wonderful to be recognised for all of the hard work that the staff and children put into Breaside to make it the very special place that it is.”

Should I choose Breaside Preparatory School for my child?

Do they really offer more than a local primary school?

42 APRIL 2018

The answer to both of these questions is a resounding ‘Yes’.

As their name suggests, the role of preparatory schools is to prepare your child for their entrance into senior education, so don’t be surprised to see a plethora of subjects on the curriculum. Your child will experience a well rounded education albeit in a nurturing environment. Classes are significantly smaller, allowing all pupils to progress. At the same time, this allows all staff to know their pupils and therefore offer a bespoke curriculum. Preparatory schools provide a wealth of opportunity for your child both academically and pastorally.

Self confidence is encouraged and children are constantly motivated to enjoy and embrace all the opportunities that arise within this positive learning environment.

The academic curriculum within a preparatory school is clearly of the utmost importance.

Throughout your child’s time at their preparatory school, they will be prepared for the common entrance and scholarship tests and preparatory schools’ academic credentials are renowned.

If the above isn’t enough to tempt you, consider the other aspects of a stimulating, all-round education. Your child will have the opportunity to experience a wide range of music, playing in an orchestra or participating in the choir. Peripatetic teachers within a preparatory school can introduce your child to a wealth of instruments, regardless of ability. Drama is also extensive with children as young as 3 taking part in plays. Within the encouraging atmosphere of a preparatory school, this can only help to aid your child’s confidence.

Let’s not forget the range of sporting events that your child can take part in. Children in a preparatory school experience a range of sports, including rugby, hockey, swimming and cricket, Should you choose a preparatory school for your child? Well, if you want to give them the best possible start in life, then the answer has to be yes. The investment will pay off as you see your child blossom into a well rounded, self confident, individual, ready to face the world!

For more information or a personal tour of the School and Early Years please call 020 8460 0916, info@breaside.co.uk, www.breaside.co.uk

EDUC ATION

Finding the right school for your child – you know your child best

A

t whatever stage of their education, finding the right school for your child is so important, it should be an environment where he or she can be happy, learn and thrive.

Class size is one factor to consider; it is proven that children learn faster in small class sizes. In fact, they are one of the main reasons why you send your child to an independent school, a class of 20 children is ideal.

But small class size alone does not ensure an excellent education. The quality of the teaching, the school leadership, the size of the school, the amount of parent involvement, are important to consider too.

Good early years’ education is essential to compete for a place in the top senior schools.

Entrance exams for independent senior schools, just like the grammar schools’ 11+ assessments, can be tough.

Some parents may even consider relocating to an area with good schools to provide their children with the best possible education.

You know your child(ren) better than anyone else and his or her talents and preferences. Would he or she thrive in a larger or smaller environment, in a single sex or co-ed school or one with specialist facilities or strengths? Do your research, visit the schools in the area, check their results and latest Ofsted or ISI Inspection reports. Remember though, education is not just about academic results it is about developing the whole child, encouraging them to become confident, enabled young people.

Since September 2016, schools in the independent sector now undergo a new ISI Inspection which is more rigorous, focusing on the quality of pupils’ achievements and pupil’s personal development. Babington House School is an independent day school from 3 to 18 years, situated in Chislehurst, near Bromley. It was one of the first schools to be inspected by this new criteria and achieved ‘Excellent in all areas’.

Babington is co-educational up to 11 years old; girls only from 11 to 16 and has a mixed Sixth Form. It strives for academic rigour in all areas and encourages pupils to become confident and able to 44 APRIL 2018

think for themselves.

Babington is committed to providing an academic and well-rounded education with small class sizes, believing that bright children benefit from carefully monitored and well directed learning, where self-discipline is highly prized and where each pupil is known as an individual. There is a strong sense of community at the school.

The girls Senior School is academically selective with an Entrance Examination for Year 7 entry. The co-educational Sixth Form is focussed on A-level study in small sets with the opportunity for work experience, helping university applications stand out and greater self- confidence.

“Headmaster, Mr Tim Lello says, “I am immensely proud to lead such a vibrant community, come and see for yourself, I would be delighted to take you on a tour of the school.” www.babingtonhouse.com

“I am immensely proud to lead such a vibrant community”

EDUC ATION

Why Choose A Prep School Education?

A

pupil’s life at Sevenoaks Prep usually starts at Nursery at 2 1/2 years old, before moving seamlessly to Pre-Prep (from Reception to Year 2), and comfortably onto Prep from Year 3 until Senior School at 11 or 13.

Those children fortunate enough to start their education here from Nursery or Pre-Prep have the advantage of a truly secure base, both emotional and academic, on which to build their future school and working careers. This base is critical.

There are huge benefits both in the short and the long term of the opportunities that come from small class sizes, close relationships between teachers, pupils and parents, a broad curriculum with specialist teachers, and a large site with extensive grounds.

Keeping Education Personal One of the most important benefits of a Prep school education is the small class sizes. Our classes have no more than 20 children and an enviable adult to child ratio. This means that each child benefits from a fantastic level of attention from the very beginning which is hugely beneficial at this formative stage of their lives, when the child is developing rapidly and is being given the necessary time and encouragement to help maximise their true potential. With small classes, staff can be creative with their teaching to suit the children and also closely monitor each individual’s progress. This gives a great basis for staff to really build strong relationships with each child and their family, with mutual respect being at the heart of Sevenoaks Prep’s ethos.

“These small classes afford teachers quality time to spend with each child during the school day”

The best opportunities Children at Sevenoaks Prep have a wide choice of free clubs and extra activities, both during the school day and after school. Such clubs support working parents who may struggle for childcare.

Our wraparound care provision means children can have breakfast and a good tea and do their homework at school so that when they are picked up at 6.00pm, they head home for a relaxed evening with their parents. The school clubs are in addition to the French, Spanish, music, swimming, art, DT, sport and drama lessons with specialist teachers which are all timetabled into the curriculum. There are also a wide range of trips and visits including a French exchange in Year 6 and a tour of the Belgium Battlefields as part of the Common Entrance curriculum.

Safe environments These small classes afford teachers quality time to spend with each child during the school day and with parents as needed. Parents find it a welcoming environment and somewhere they feel their child to be supported, encouraged and cherished. We focus on building character and resilience through encouraging our children to take risks and step out of their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing environment.

All the children are encouraged to perform in assemblies in front of their peers and all take part in regular sports’ fixtures against other schools when singing in the minibus can be just as big a part of the experience as the match! Every pupil is involved in a drama production each year, whether on the stage or behind the scenes, and there are opportunities to be a part of orchestras, bands, choirs, chess teams and other groups. Learning to perform in any way in public is a life skill and even those who do not come to it naturally develop

46 APRIL 2018

a self-confidence that is so important for future success.

Sevenoaks Prep’s large site bordering Knole Park with a forest school, numerous games pitches, tennis courts, all weather playground and athletics track gives teachers opportunities to be more creative with their teaching and planning. They can elaborate on or use the children’s specific interests to ignite their enthusiasm to begin the process of all-important independent learning. This flexibility of learning and teaching is liberating for the teacher and consequently more relevant and enlightening for the pupils.

For more information, please visit www.theprep.org.uk

fashion, HEALTH

& beauty

– Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – im a g e : K I DS W E AR F I NDS F OR A L I TTL E P R I N C E OR P R I N C E SS

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Downsizing or rightsizing?

Downsizing in retirement can not only be the right thing to do but also an invigorating move

W

e are constantly being told that there is an inadequate supply of family homes, but how many family houses are currently being lived in by people in their 70’s and 80’s? Around 3.1million people who have paid off their mortgage are in homes where there are two bedrooms for everyone living there while, according to research by estate agents Savills, the over-65s own £1.2trillion of today’s property wealth.

Although it may seem a daunting prospect, downsizing can be a positive and rewarding decision. Not only can it release equity it can also release the stress and expense of maintaining a large house and gardens. But more importantly it means moving to a property which is right for you. Retirement apartments today can provide generous sized apartments with fantastic facilities and services. It also means being within a social community surrounded by likeminded neighbours.

Paul Hart, manager at the new retirement village Emerson Park, which is to open soon in Hextable, Kent, commented, “Many people have the preconceived idea that retirement apartments are small pokey flats with very little or no support and facilities. This certainly isn’t the case at Emerson Park. Large well-designed apartments with the very highest quality specification are complimented with luxury amenities such as the Club House Room.

Here you can meet friends for a coffee or enjoy a 3-course meal, obviously after enjoying a G&T in the bar first! You can keep in shape in the gym and then be pampered in the hair and beauty salon.

Or why not take up a new hobby? Our dedicated Events & Activities Manager will be arranging a whole host of social events tailored around the interests of the people living here.”

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

50 APRIL 2018

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

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

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

Like any move, the decision to move house and downsize is certainly a big one. However, this can be an exhilarating and positive decision; one where you can move to a property which is right for you within a luxury, social and friendly community.

The show apartment at Emerson Park is available to view Monday to Saturday 10am – 4pm and on Sunday by prior appointment.

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

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

The Benefits of Healthy Hearing We all visit our dentists and opticians regularly to keep our teeth and eyes in tip-top condition. But how many of us look after our ears with regular check-ups?

A

ction On Hearing Loss states that hearing loss affects around 11 million people in the UK, with an estimated 900,000 people suffering from a severe loss of hearing. Untreated, hearing loss can lead to withdrawal from social situations with family, distress and depression. Without the stimulation of good hearing, the brain can suffer, with research suggesting that hearing loss can increase the risk of developing dementia. Research also suggests that hearing aids may help to reduce this risk.

Many people suffer for years with hearing loss before finally seeking help. With the aforementioned medical conditions associated with hearing, it is very important to seek help as soon as possible.

Sometimes temporary hearing loss can be treated by the removal of impacted or excessive ear wax from deep in the ear canal. Many Independent hearing healthcare practices offer an ear wax removal service.

Hearing aid technology has vastly improved over the past few years and the days of wearing a cumbersome “beige banana” behind your ear are over. The latest technology includes tiny, discreet hearing aids that are worn in the ear and are virtually invisible. You probably know someone who wears these type of hearing aids and haven’t even realised!

Rechargeable hearing aids are also available, so you can now have confidence that your hearing aid battery will not run out at an inconvenient moment!

52 APRIL 2018

“Independent hearing healthcare centres like Sound Advice Hearing can offer impartial advice on all aspects of hearing”

Independent Hearing Aid Audiologists offer excellent customer service and, in most cases, a more extensive range of hearing technology from the world’s leading manufacturers, than some of their larger competitors. This means they are able to offer the most suitable solution to meet a person’s particular hearing needs and more importantly – their lifestyle.

Independent hearing healthcare centres like Sound Advice Hearing can offer impartial advice on all aspects of hearing. Hearing tests are carried out in a sound proof room and time and care is taken to provide advice, information and importantly, the correct solution.

Unlike some companies, you will always see the same fully qualified Hearing Aid Audiologist (and not an assistant) each time you visit, receiving continuity in your aftercare. This is important for patients and assures them they are getting the best from their hearing at all times.

Sound Advice Hearing are a local family run business, and what makes them a leading provider in hearing healthcare is a combination of - extensive range of products, many years of experience/ knowledge, continuity, in depth testing, attention to detail and aftercare that is second to none. And, this is all achieved through being dedicated 100% to hearing care alone.

To book a FREE hearing consultation then contact Sound Advice Hearing on: Tel: 020 8663 6187; Email: info@soundadvicehearing.co.uk; Or visit www.soundadvicehearing.co.uk

ADAM SWAINE PHOTOGRAPHY

Email: adamswaine@rocketmail.com Mobile 07798 526569

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

JERMAIN DEFOE:

GOING MEAT-FREE The footballer’s found that eating plant-based foods has helped prolong his time on the pitch.

WORDS: Prudence Wade, Press Association

I

n the professional footballing world, most players are done before they reach their mid-30s. But not Jermain Defoe, 35, who was recalled to the national squad last year.

Not only that, but Defoe even scored the first goal in his return to England football, 13 years after first joining the team.

So, what’s his secret? Other than a superhuman ability to get the ball in the net, Defoe puts the longevity of his career down to one thing: His recent adoption of a plantbased diet.

Why he wanted to do it Defoe is refreshingly honest about why he started exploring the options in his diet. “When you come into the later stages of your career, you always try to find anything you can do to prolong it,” he explains, showing his steely dedication to football.

It was documentaries like Netflix’s What The Health that convinced Defoe to cut meat out of his diet, showing him the benefits and alternatives that were on offer. “I wanted to try something different to prolong my career, and that’s how I was inspired,” he says.

In his drive to continue to play football at a top level, Defoe has now cut meat out altogether, but he still eats some fish.

How he found the transition No matter how in vogue the vegan diet is, for most people, the transition is still a pretty tricky one.

Even though Defoe hasn’t gone fully vegan, cutting meat out of his diet was still tough, because of the culture he grew up with. “At first it wasn’t easy,” he admits. “It’s something completely different to what I’ve done before,

54 APRIL 2018

especially coming from a West Indian background.”

Defoe is close to his family, and says: “When I first started, it was difficult. I used to go to my mum’s on a Sunday and she’d make lamb, beef, all this kind of stuff.”

Admittedly, Defoe has it easier than most people.

He works closely with a nutritionist who helps shape his diet to make sure it’s balanced. In fact, it doesn’t seem like Defoe does that much cooking at all. “I don’t mind cooking,” he says, sounding very unconvinced. “My girlfriend does most of it, but I help her.”

Now, Defoe’s diet has settled into a pretty consistent rhythm. “I try to stick to vegan meals at home, but after training at the ground, I’ll have a bit of fish, like tuna or salmon, to get some energy back into my system,” he says.

And don’t worry, because his mum has also managed to adapt - he was at her house the night before we spoke, and she made him a lovely vegetable curry.

How it changed his performance For Defoe, changing his diet so significantly has undoubtedly been worth it.

“It wasn’t easy, but as I was doing it, I noticed the difference,” he says. “I didn’t get one muscle injury last season, and in your 30s, that’s quite unusual.

“I thought it must be down to my diet - cutting meat out and really understanding what I’m actually putting into my body.”

His muscles aren’t the only thing that have benefited from a meat-free lifestyle. “I’ve always had energy, but sometimes you feel a little bit lethargic and bloated,” he says.

“Now I feel like I’ve got more energy. I feel completely different - I’m able to train every day, I don’t get any injuries, it’s helped with my game.

That, for me, is the most important thing.”

How his teammates have responded Veganism isn’t exactly seen as a macho lifestyle choice, which seems at odds with the lads-centric nature of football.

However, Defoe says his teammates are really receptive to his diet. “A lot of the younger players look at me and they’re like ‘Wow, how can he still be playing at that sort of level at 35?’ I think they wanted to know what the secret is,” Defoe says. The answer he always gives them? His diet.

“I think they look at me and think they should try it themselves - and they should, because the earlier you try it, the better it will be,” Defoe says.

With top sportspeople like Serena Williams and David Haye adopting veganism, plant-based diets are shedding the image of being wishy-washy and unbalanced. If a 23-times Grand Slam winner can succeed without getting her protein from meat, then there’s got to be something in that.

“Now I feel like I’ve got more energy.

I feel completely different - I’m able to train every day, I don’t get any injuries, it’s helped with my game. That, for me, is the most important thing”

diet has been an eye-opening one.

“When I was younger, I didn’t understand much about food, I just ate what was in front of me,” he says in disbelief. “Even at the training ground I just ate like everyone else.”

It was education that showed Defoe that there are so many alternatives to meat. That’s why he did a film with Quorn and Ben Fogle about how reducing your meat intake can be so much healthier and better for the environment.

“It encourages kids to understand what they’re putting in their bodies,” Defoe says. “It shows you can be healthy and fit without eating meat.”

For now, you won’t see Defoe reaching for grilled chicken breast to get his #gains. Instead, he’ll be opting for tofu - which will probably help power his professional career for a few extra years.

Jermain Defoe has partnered with Ben Fogle and Quorn to explore how meat reduction can be healthier for you and the planet. Watch their film here.

Importance of knowing about food For Defoe, his journey away from a meat-focused APRIL 2018 55

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

BEAUTY & FASHION BEST OF LUCK Wild and Wolf ’s Gentlemen’s Hardware range is designed to equip every kind of gentlemen for the rigours of life. This set contains three pairs of patterned socks each featuring a lucky icon – four leaf clover, number seven and dice.

Shop the range at JohnLewis.com

IN THE BAG Named after the charming coastal municipality just to the west of Brighton, the Simon Carter Hove Laptop Bag is made from exceptional quality grained and antiqued tan leather. A smart, stylish and practical accessory for any modern gentleman. £225, www.henrytibbs.com

freshen up “The natural labadorite stones are cut and polished by hand”

BOHO AND VINTAGE-INSPIRED

From quiet stolen moments to sophisticated red carpet moments under starry skies, a stunning fragrance for every occasion. £6.95, www.peppermintgroveaustralia. com

Looking forward to spring but also great now with cashmere and lambswool… Beautiful boho and vintage-style handmade aqua labradorite, gold and silver jewellery. The natural labadorite stones are cut and polished by hand and the settings are silver, with some pieces also plated in 22ct gold.

Necklaces £43.50; Earrings £38; Oval Studs £38; www.carolinemcgrath.co.uk

simple style for spring Stay cosy and warm with this simple Rapunzel scarf handmade from hypoallergenic merino wool. The brand new Rapunzel scarf is a simple yet chunky plait effect scarf, bringing heaps of texture. It can be wrapped around a number of times to look like an amazingly snug snood or can be worn long to really show off the size of the stitches. Whether you keep it for yourself or buy it as a gift, this scarf is so easy to wear that the hardest part, as ever, will be choosing the colour. £55, www.laurenastondesigns.com 56 APRIL 2018

PINK POINTES A hot pink kid suede shoe with metal buckle ornament. Stunning! £129, www.unisa-europa.com/en-GB

SKIN LESION REMOVALS & REDUCTIONS • Skin tags • Moles and warts • Red veins and blood spots • Mili, syringomas and xanthelasma • Pigmentation and lentigo correction

OTHER SPECIALIST TREATMENTS • Semi-permanent makeup - eyebrows and eyeliner • Areola and nipple reconstruction • Scar relaxation - improvement to trauma scars • Scalp hairless tattooing for men and women • Hollywood and Brazilian waxing • MCA - treatment for fine lines, wrinkles

Gillian has been in the industry for over 30 years and has trained in the UK, Middle East, USA and Europe.

2017 Winner Kent HealtH & Beauty aWards

BIAE, ITEC, BABTAC, SPCP, C&G, CIBTAC, MGBT, IDI, IIAA.

APPEARANCES AESTHETICS ADVANCED AESTHETIC CLINIC

07711 067 789

gillian@appearancesaesthetics.co.uk www.appearancesaesthetics.co.uk

opening hours Monday: 9am - 6pm Tuesday: 9am - 6pm Wednesday: 9am - 6pm Thursday: 9am - 8pm Friday: 9am - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 6pm Sunday: Closed

Follow Gillian at:

Welcome to Gloss Hair & Spa, Oxted, we are more then just a hairdressers… We would like to introduce you to Oway, a revolutionary hair care range, made of naturally derived ingredients grown, harvested and developed on a unique, biodynamic eco farm in the hills of Bologna, Italy, which is now available in our salon! Our team is looking forward to working with you with our totally ammonia-free, natural hair colouring system. Our beauty team and skin care professionals work with Environ Skin Care products and we offer semi permanent make-up, High Definition Brows, Bio Sculpture Gel , Cuccio Powder Nails and many more beauty treatments.

Along side our experienced team of senior stylists we would like to introduce Sabrina our international stylist from Italy to Gloss Hair and Spa, who specialises in a unique 3D cutting technique.

59 Station Road EaSt, oxtEd RH8 0ax • 01883 732 100 • info@gloSS.Salon • www.gloSS.Salon

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

KIDSWEAR FINDS FIT FOR A LITTLE

Ahead of the arrival of the new royal baby, Katie Wright selects the cutest kids’ fashion on the high street.

T

he Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are due to welcome their third child next month, and speculation is rife over when exactly the baby will arrive (could it be St George’s day?) and whether it will be a boy or girl (or even twins, as some overzealous bump-watchers have been theorising lately).

While we won’t know for definite until it happens, chances are, the new bundle of joy will be following in big brother Prince George and big sister Princess Charlotte’s footsteps in terms of what they wear.

Whenever we see them at public appearances or in official portraits, the littlest royals are always beautifully turned out; 4-year-old George in shorts, buttoned shirts and sensible shoes, while Charlotte, who turns 3 in May, has an array of pretty floral frocks, knitted cardigans and Mary Janes.

With arguably the best-dressed mum in the UK, it’s no wonder the adorable siblings are already inspiring babywear designers with their prim and proper outfits.

Want to dress up your little prince of princess in a similar fashion? Here’s how to get the royal baby look on the high street...

58 APRIL 2018

House of Fraser; My1stYears Personalised Gingham Robe, £26

Prince George Classic button-down shirts and navy shorts, worn with shiny laceup shoes, are the young prince’s uniform while on royal duties with mum and dad. His quilted jacket is a winter staple, and even his PJs are super-stylish - who can forget the adorable sight of the then 2-year-old meeting Barack Obama in a personalised bathrobe and gingham pyjamas?

Joules Baby Boy Popper Front Coat, 0 - 12 months, £34.95,

Marks and Spencer Pure Cotton Striped Oxford Shirt, 3 months - 7 years, from £10 John Lewis Heirloom Collection Boys’ Cotton Sateen Suit Shorts, 2 - 14 years, from £10

PRINCE OR PRINCESS Marks and Spencer Kids’ Leather Walkmates Crossbar Shoes, from £24

Monsoon Baby Nouvoux Dress, 0-3 years, £45

River Island Mini Girls Yellow Frill Collar Cardigan, £14

Princess Charlotte Cap-sleeved smock dresses in pretty printed fabrics are Princess Charlotte’s signature look, paired with Mary Jane shoes and ankle socks - an eternally cute combination - and a cardigan if the weather calls for it. The toddler looked sweeter than ever when she was flower girl at Pippa Middleton’s wedding last year, wearing a white silk dress with a sash bow and floral crown.

There’s no word yet on whether we’ll get a repeat at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding in May. Here’s hoping...

M&Co Floral Print Smock Dress, ages 0-3, from £18

APRIL 2018 59

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Cinnamon Care Collection Rated amongst Top 20 Mid-Size Care Home Groups in the UK

T

he Cinnamon Care Collection – a group of 10 luxury care homes across England – has won a prestigious award from the leading care home reviews website www.carehome.co.uk in recognition of being rated by residents and their families as one of the top 20 mid-size care home groups in the UK The national and regional Top 20 Care Home Awards are presented by carehome.co.uk after an assessment of over 75,000 care home reviews on the website. The award is particularly significant as the reviews are completely independent and are submitted by the people who actually use the service, their families and friends. Care homes from across the UK were rated in terms of overall standard, facilities, care and support, cleanliness, residents being treated with dignity, food and drink, team members, activities, management, safety and security, environment and value for money.

Carole Hunt, Director of Cinnamon Care Collection comments: “We are delighted to have received these accolades. There are over 18,500 care homes in the UK and so to be singled out amongst the best in the country is a huge endorsement of our success. Our ethos is to provide the very best care and support in the most luxurious care

60 APRIL 2018

homes and we are delighted that our residents, their families and friends rate us so highly.”

The Cinnamon Care Collection has two care homes in Blackheath – Leah Lodge in Blessington Road with services for people living with dementia and Rectory Court, adjacent to Lee Terrace which provides residential care. Both care homes offer respite care when a short stay is needed maybe for convalescence after an operation or to give a carer a well-earned break.

Emerson Park, the newest development in the delightful village of Hextable in Kent is due to open by the summer of 2018 and combines 47 luxury retirement apartments to buy, with an 85-bed care home community called Emerson Grange. Emerson Grange will provide nursing, residential, dementia and respite care with a full range of activities and outstanding facilities such as comfortable lounges, a café bar, fitness suite, cinema room and hair and beauty salon.

You are welcome to visit any of our homes and villages at any time but on Care Home Open Day, Saturday 21st April, there will be an exciting array of events in each home for you to enjoy as well as meeting our teams who are dedicated to providing the best quality of care and support.

the details To find out more about the Cinnamon Care Collection and Care Home Open Day call: Maggie at Leah Lodge on 0208 108 0076 Sue at Rectory Court on 0203 797 7620 Sam or Aadil at Emerson Park and Emerson Grange on 01322 771788 Or visit www.cinnamoncc.com

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

JOE WICKS:

ON BEING ‘OVER’ CLUBBING, HIS MARATHON MISHAP AND THE ONE SUGARY SNACK HE CAN’T SAY NO TO

A

fter scoring one of biggest-selling cookbooks in UK history, The Body Coach shows no signs of slowing down. He talks to Liz Connor about his success secrets and lessons along the way.

At 31, Joe Wicks has achieved a feat most aspiring influencers could only dream of: turning his virtuous lifestyle into a multi-million-pound empire.

In the space of three years, there have been five workout and recipe books, a Channel 4 show, DVDs, countless tours across the globe and over 8,000 Instagram posts under his nom de plume, The Body Coach, racking up two million followers and counting.

From the outside, the man seriously doesn’t seem to stop - a quick scroll through his Instagram feed before we meet reveals Wicks has already shared photos of his breakfast and new book, The FatLoss Plan, and he has a full day of media interviews ahead.

Of course, he’s also managed to tick off a gruelling morning HIIT class - yet not one strand of his cherub-esque hair is out of place, and that megawatt smile is in full force, despite the fact he appears to also be fighting off a nasty cold.

So what does he make of all his success? “It’s mad isn’t it, really? It’s such a short amount of time,” says Wicks, reflecting on his growing repertoire of recipe books, based on his cult Lean In 15 method. “I’ve got an eight-book deal with a publisher so they’re just really keen to keep pushing them out, so obviously it’s going to get more challenging to come up with something new,” he adds.

To date, he’s sold more than a million copies of Lean In 15 and managed to hold a steadfast place in the upper regions of the book charts since December 2015. He puts its popularity down to our modern, time-poor lifestyles. “People just wanted that ease and accessibility of quick basic stuff that they could throw in the pan, make a couple of batches, and stick it in the oven or the fridge for the next day,” he says.

Wicks has also just launched a new 18-part audio series for Audible with Sir Mo Farah called Mo-Joe, in which the duo will coach TV presenter George Lamb to run this year’s Virgin Money London Marathon.

Wicks ran it himself back in 2015, but confesses it wasn’t his finest moment. “I had a bad experience

62 APRIL 2018

WORDS: Liz Connor, Press Association because I didn’t take it seriously. I thought that because I was fit, I could just turn up and do it and my body would be fine. You sort of just think, ‘Mind over body’, but there comes a point where your body needs to be trained, it needs to be conditioned. My knee basically got really sore halfway through, it swelled up, and I had to walk the rest of the way. It was a really important lesson don’t just think you’re superhuman.”

Between brief appearances from Sir Mo, Wicks will set out a follow-along training and nutrition plan for Lamb in the run up to race day. Despite working out five times per week, he admits he’s no match for the four-time Olympic champion on the track. “I did a few laps with him,” he says. “I ran as fast as I could - I was sprinting - and he was literally just casually jogging next to me; he wasn’t even panting. On the treadmill, I could only last 90 seconds of a pace which Mo ran for two hours at.”

“The key to staying trim, he believes, is in organisation. “It’s in removing that barrier of time from your mind that says, ‘I haven’t got time to cook’”

So is there any sport he thinks he could trump the distance runner at? “I could probably beat him at a press-up or pull-up competition... I’d have different strength - he’s really slim.”

Speaking to Wicks, it’s clear that what you see is what you get: the lifestyle he sells over Instagram is not smoke and mirrors - he really does live by the Lean In 15 mantra. The key to staying trim, he believes, is in organisation. “It’s in removing that barrier of time from your mind that says, ‘I haven’t got time to cook’, or, ‘I haven’t got time to exercise’.

“If you keep telling yourself that then you won’t find the time, and you’ll end up in a rut where you eat out all the time and don’t really exercise.

These are just little actions that will make a massive difference to your body over time.”

Thankfully though, it’s not all kale smoothies and cauliflower pizzas - the Instagrammer does have a pretty human Achilles’ heel, albeit fairly vanilla on

the celebrity vice spectrum. “If I’ve got a tub of ice cream and it’s chocolate-based, like chocolate fudge brownie or [Ben & Jerry’s] Phish Food, I just have to eat the whole thing,” he says. “I can eat a little bit of chocolate, or a few crisps or a few treats, but then when it comes to ice cream, I’m just like: it’s all or nothing.”

With such a busy schedule, it’s hard to imagine how he finds time to see his family and girlfriend, model Rosie Jones. While Wicks is reluctant to give anything away about his relationship, he says trying to keep the balance is important to him, and being “over” hangovers appears to be key for the savvy entrepreneur. “My ideal night is like a nice meal and the cinema,” he reveals. “I’m not really into raving and clubbing any more. Almost overnight, I just lost interest in it, you know? It’s weird, I used to always be the last one out - now I’m happy to go home at midnight.”

Between the books and his social-media presence, he’s aware that his time is, increasingly, in demand. “I plan my breaks around my year but I’ll have to block a week out in advance, because if I don’t, everyone will just stick stuff in my diary,” he says. “I’ve got a good balance, it might look like I’m 24/7 all year round but I do have a week off here and there. I re-energise, refocus, and then I can go again.”

Outside of his growing media empire, young people are a particular passion for Wicks. He says he was “always a sporty kid” and originally aspired to be a PE teacher; he also recently launched a Schools Fitness Week, where he streamed workouts on his channel that could be followed along by schools.

After the eighth book is wrapped up, he’d like to focusing on helping combat childhood obesity, and bringing more education about fitness and nutrition to the curriculum. “I really want to be driving the schools campaign that I’ve been doing online and hopefully amplifying it, maybe with a TV show show where I can creates actual change within schools - like Jamie Oliver did with school dinners,” he says.

“My end goal is, I really want to be remembered for more than someone who sold a few books and had an online business.”

I ask if his stratospheric success is partly down to luck, and he’s humble enough to agree - while also acknowledging all the hard graft he’s put in. “Yes, I think so... It’s hard now, if I was to start today, it would be way harder to grow because Instagram’s algorithm has changed.

“I always get asked if it was luck or hard work, but it’s a bit of both, I think,” Wicks adds. “I had the idea at the right time, and I worked really hard to push it through.”

Mo-Joe is available now at audible.co.uk/ run, free with Audible’s 30-day free trial. The Fat-Loss Plan: 100 Quick And Easy Recipes With Workouts by Joe Wicks is published by PanMacmillan, priced £16.99.

APRIL 2018 63

HOuse &

garden – Keep it local for everything house and home – I M AG E : RU M E

H OUSE & GARDEN

[NEWS]

INTERIORS STAR BRIGHT This chandelier’s long, slender arms radiate from a central sphere in an elliptical burst. Manufactured from brass and beautifully formed by skilled artisans, the chandelier will add luxury to your home.

It features eight bulbs that are tugged among the brass arms. £780, www.vivalagoon.com

A SPLASH OF COLOUR

The Romulus is an elegant and beautiful daybed with a shallow button back detail, designed for rume by Richard P Baker.

As with all rume chaises it is handmade to order by our skilled staff in our Sussex workshops, drawing on classic English furniture making traditions and techniques and combining long established practices with proven modern materials. This individual approach means you can specify the fabric, leg timber and stain. As shown it has a sprung seat and back and solid ash legs with black stain. www.rume.co.uk

EMBRACE OUTDOOR LIVING

Pretty baby blue fluffy cushions and comfy seat pads - the perfect way to create a unique and inviting and relaxing outdoor living space. Available from Dekoria in different sizes and in a variety of patterns and solid colours to mix & match. £18, www.dekoria.co.uk

BRING ON THE SUN

MIRROR, MIRROR…

We love this modern circles mirror – great for the end of a long hallway or the narrow wall at the bottom of a staircase. £149, www.decorativemirrorsonline.co.uk 66 APRIL 2018

Beckon the sun into your home with this Sol decorative piece.

Classic in design, the central gold disc and wavy metal sunrays handmade out of durable steel ensure that this decorative item will last a lifetime. The Sol can be made to measure and the central gold disc can be swapped out for mirrored glass (plain, distressed, antique, fossil or speckled which can also be bevelled), allowing you to create a bespoke and personalised wall composition. £160, www.blackbbird-london.com

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H OUSE & GARDEN

Decisions, decisions: Peninsula vs. Island Words by Adrian Stoneham, Managing Director at Stoneham Kitchens

O

nce a dull, practical space for food preparation, the kitchen is now truly the hub of the home, with great capacity for socialising, entertaining and of course, cooking. As such, it is vital to have the perfect centre piece, and there is no better feature which is stunning and useful in equal measure than an impressive peninsula or island.

Both features create extra work space, added storage and offer additional seating for guests and entertaining.

Can’t decide which one you love the most? Take a look at what distinguishes them:

68 APRIL 2018

Space An island or peninsula has the potential to both enhance and dominate the space in your kitchen.

Whilst an island is a free-standing space with four open sides, a peninsula has one side connected to a wall with three free remaining sides. If space is in abundance, islands are more fitting as they break up large open areas. Short on room? A peninsula offers similar benefits and will suit a more modest layout, creating a barrier between living and cooking areas.

Lifestyle Your personality and the way you use your kitchen are critical factors in deciding whether an island or a peninsula will suit your home. If you adore entertaining, an island allows the cook to be sautĂŠ and socialise as their guests can sit gathered around.

A peninsula, however, grants the chef some privacy and frames the kitchen as a place of peace and meticulous preparation.

Planning Planning, organisation and cost should also be important considerations. Whilst islands are ideal for circulating, the area will need a supply of gas, electricity and water, which will mean running cables, pipes and wires underneath the flooring.

This may prove more costly, so it is essential to ensure your budget can accommodate this. Since peninsulas are already part of the main kitchen layout, this eradicates any complicated issues with planning as it is far easier to reach.

Design The careful composition of colours and materials in the kitchen is vital in achieving a personalised, stylish look. In your design, peninsulas can be somewhat restrictive as they should almost always match the pre-existing furniture. Islands, however, can be a standalone centre piece, with either contrasting or matching elements. A striking contrast creates a contemporary appearance, whereas coordinated furniture always looks timeless.

Parallels Putting differences aside, both peninsulas and islands offer seamless functionality, extra storage, counter space, and seating potential. Incredibly practical and versatile, they are often the most breath-taking design element in a stunning new kitchen.

Stoneham Kitchens, Powerscroft Road, Sidcup, Kent, DA14 5DZ; www.stoneham-kitchens.co.uk

H OUSE & GARDEN

CASE STUDY:

CEDARWOOD S et within a generous mature landscaped plot with views across the open Cheshire countryside Cedarwood offers a contemporary rural residence completed to the highest possible specification. The brief was to create a timeless yet elegant design, which connected with the surrounding landscape. Nestled deep within the established plot the simple series of refined linear buildings blend seamlessly and capture the innate natural beauty of their setting.

Strategically positioned the buildings provide an array of landscaped courtyards each with its own distinct character.

Constructed from the highest quality natural materials the buildings are designed to provide a healthy and sustainable living environment, highly insulated and filled with light. The large panels of recessed glazing which adorn the elevations provide panoramic views across the site whilst creating a series of bright internal living spaces. The glazing itself is highly thermally efficient allowing energy from the sun to enter the building whilst limiting

70 APRIL 2018

heat loss during winter.

The natural slate roof lines, which float effortlessly over the buildings, provide shelter and protection from the elements. The purity of the roof forms are further enhanced by the use of recessed guttering and concealed down-pipes.

Constructed from a rigid steel frame the buildings are clad externally in western red cedar, which has a superior natural durability and resistance to moisture, decay and insect damage. Selected for its warm textured grain and rich colour cedar has an inherent quality that has been proven to retain its appearance for several decades. The use of cedar provides a strong visual connection and roots the buildings within its landscape.

The buildings themselves are highly thermally insulated using sustainable wood-fibre board that not only reduces heat loss but also gives protection from overheating in the summer months. the building construction is highly breathable and vapour permeable protecting the building fabric and providing a naturally healthy living environment.

Heating is provided via underfloor heating linked to a highly efficient gas-condensing boiler.

Award: Northern Design Award – New Build House Winner www.nicolastyearchitects.com

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H OUSE & GARDEN

SMALL SPACE secrets

Feeling squeezed at home? Topology designers Athina Bluff and Amy Brandhorst share their top spaceenhancing hacks with Gabrielle Fagan.

I

nterior designers and award-winning bloggers, Athena Bluff and Amy Brandhorst from Topology (topologyinteriors.com), have joined forces with Habitat, in a mission to help the nation maximise the space in their homes.

While there’s nothing anyone can do about the bricks and mortar and actual dimensions of your property you live in, their seven home hacks could help you make the best of the space available, meaning rooms feel larger.

Tommy Copper Desk Lamp, £25, Habitat

Shine a light “Ensure you have multiple light sources within a room to maximise light at night,” says Bluff. “You should aim to have around six light sources around the room, which will ‘replace’ natural daylight and allow light to flow through the space. Enhance the effect with mirrored surfaces, which will bounce light around. Those and metallics, which reflect warm light, will create a sense of more space.”

Be free with flooring “An easy trick for floors to is to continue the hallway flooring into your small room. Creating a visually unbroken flow of space will make it appear as though it’s one big area, and creates an illusion that the floor is expanding,” points out Bluff.

Create colour harmony “Try painting walls, skirting boards and door frames all the same colour. Painting them different colours can actually break up a space and emphasise the shape and (small) size of the room,” says Brandhorst. “If they’re all the same colour, they’ll blend into one and make the room appear bigger.”

Make a great reflection “Hang a mirror opposite a window. It’s simple but extremely effective - both in terms of cost and visual impact,” suggests Brandhorst. “The mirror will reflect natural light and instantly brighten up your space, as well as making it appear larger. If you’re feeling creative, play around with different shapes or multiple mirrors to reflect as much light as possible. More light equals more sense of space.”

Choose multi-functional furniture “Opt for dual usage furniture that can be folded or expanded to suit your needs,” says Bluff. “If there’s only two of you most evenings, opt for a folding

72 APRIL 2018

table which, with an extension, turns into a fourperson dining table for entertaining. Check out sofa bed options, which can easily turn a sitting room into bedroom for guests. Always consider storage in items like ottomans, pouffes, trunks, coffee tables.

If there’s a design that also hides clutter (the enemy of small spaces), choose it!”

Embrace the dark side “This is one for the brave! Don’t be afraid of going dark in small spaces,” advises Bluff. “It may sound counter-intuitive, but dark shades - navy and grey can actually disguise the perimeters of a room and blur boundaries which extend the space, so don’t feel you can only use ‘Brilliant White’ to achieve a sense of more space. Walk on the dark side - trust us, it works!”

Work the walls “As you don’t have a lot of floor space to play with, think upwards and make use of walls instead,” advises Brandhorst. “Floating shelves, clothes hooks, wall-mounted magazine racks and bike hooks will allow you to store things like folding chairs, or display belongings without cluttering the floor. Make use of dead space, such as corners, and have wall-mounted shelves.”

Jacobs Grey Upholstered Storage Bench, grey, £250, Habitat

fiveways fires & stoves

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FOOD & DRINK – Bringing you updates on the local food and drink scene – im a g e : TH E M ANOR AT B I C K L E Y

FOOD & DRINK

Royal Warrant Holder, Partridges, Launches NEW Royal Wedding Gin • No. 2 Chelsea Flower Gin Bergamot Infused

P

artridges, the independent, family-run grocer and Royal Warrant Holder is launching a NEW Chelsea Flower Gin to commemorate the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on Friday 19th May. The May launch also coincides with the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, which takes place close to Partridges’ flagship store in Duke of York Square, from Monday 23rd May. This bergamot infused London Dry Gin has been described as ‘elegant, indulgent and rounded with body and freshness. Notes of bergamot lead but there is also a medley of citrus and coriander with hints of lemon tart and vanilla’. It has been created in collaboration with the Dunnet Bay Distillers in Scotland who are located close to the home of the Partridges owners’ great, great, great grandmother. Also the inclusion of bergamot reflects the family’s long-standing connection with Italy.

Chelsea Flower Gin is exclusively available in Partridges’ two central London stores in Duke of York Square, Chelsea and Gloucester Road, Kensington and online at www.partridges.co.uk

The NEW No. 2 CHELSEA FLOWER GIN 50cl I ABV 41.5% I £29.95, 5cl £3.99 Each of the limited edition bottles is hand filled, numbered by hand and sealed with wax. Elegant and indulgent with a distinct house style balanced by a medley of juniper, sweet bergamot, citrus and dryness.

Signature Serve: G & Tea – 50ml No. 2 served with ice, 50ml cold Partridges Earl Grey Tea infused with honey, topped up with tonic water and 76 APRIL 2018

garnished with a slice of bergamot or lime.

Last year to celebrate its 45th anniversary Partridges launched its first Chelsea Flower Gin to widespread acclaim. The original Chelsea Flower Gin contains 19 botanicals including rose petals, marigold, verbena, cassia bark and juniper.

“Gin is a quintessential British drink and as a Royal Warrant Holder to HM The Queen we are honoured to launch the new No. 2 Chelsea Flower Gin to celebrate the wedding of her grandson Prince Harry to Meghan Markle and send all our best wishes to the happy couple.” John Shepherd, Managing Director, Partridges The Chelsea Flower Collection was introduced

by Partridges in 2012 and contains a range of upmarket groceries including floral teas, chocolates, fudge, biscuits, jelly, a selection of gifts and now 2 types of gin. Its name was inspired by the nurseries dating back to the 17th Century which once lined the Kings Road.

Partridges – was awarded a Royal Warrant as Grocer to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth in 1994.

www.partridges.co.uk @partridgesfoods #ChelseaFlowerGin

Open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner.

Bromley’s best kept secret....

Events • Conferences • Weddings • Parties and Funeral receptions Thornet Wood Road, BR1 2LW Reservations 020 8467 1461 themanoratbickley.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

Thinking of taking someone special somewhere special?

The Rajdoot Tandoori Restaurant in Petts Wood has all the answers, established since 1984 this restaurant offers traditional Indian cuisine with a modern twist, all set in a vibrant friendly environment fully air conditioned for your comfort.

C

hef Tarek Aziz has been with Rajdoot for over 15 years and has a world of experience in satisfying customer taste buds using fresh local produce where possible.

If your bored of your usual dish why not come down to the rajdoot and order the Rajdoot Surprise, which is Moyn’s specially selected Meal and just wait to be happily surprised, which will leave you coming back for more.

Call us on 01689 871104 or visit us at rajdoot-pettswood.co.uk

“Very nice food as always, chicken pakoras are amazing!!” – Michael.

“Fantastic food. Definitely one of the best in the area.” –James.

“The food is excellent especially the chicken tikka lovely and juicy the flavours in the food are outstanding top Indian around”. – Alan.

78 APRIL 2018

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FOOD & DRINK

Welcome to Joy Kitchen Established in 2016 by Donny Koei an Indonesian born restaurateur and his family, with the concept of creating a menu combining their favourite childhood dishes.

T

he menus available at The Joy Kitchen, are South East Asian, specialising in the many overlapping street style dishes of Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.

With their first site here in Orpington, Donny and his family’s aim for joy Kitchen is simply to provide the real taste of authentic Southeast Asian street food in a relaxed and casual environment at affordable prices.

Recommended dishes from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam include Nasi goreng, Beef rendang, Seafood curry laksa, Malaysia chicken curry, Singapore noodles, Padthai prawn and Kway teow goreng seafood.

318 High Street, Orpington. BR6 0NG 01689 829341

“With their first site here in Orpington, Donny and his family’s aim for Joy Kitchen is simply to provide the real taste of authentic Southeast Asian street food in a relaxed and casual environment at affordable prices”

80 APRIL 2018

At Joy Kitchen we serve fresh tantalizing Southeast Asian dishes from Indonesia, Malaysia & Thailand

Details of our fabulous dishes can be found at www.joykitchen.co.uk

Wok-fry noodles, soups, curries and many things that will make you feel the warmth of Southeast Asia. Whether you are looking to feed a crowd or whip up a quick meal, our meals never disappoint. All of our Southeast Asian dishes are made in our modern scratch kitchen, with only the finest ingredients, for tastes both unexpecting and comforting. We also stock a full selection of spirits, Asian Beers, cocktails and an unparalleled wine list.

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318 High Street, Orpington. BR6 0NG

01689 829341 www.joykitchen.co.uk

Dine in, take away and delivery*

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cHinESE rEStaUrant & taKEaWaY PEKinG & cantonESE cUiSinE

At the Ming restaurant, you can be sure of a warm welcome and fantastic Chinese food. A perfect environment for a romantic dinner for two, or a place to celebrate or relax with family and friends.

OPEning HOuRS Monday – Thursday: 12pm – 2:30pm & 5:30pm – 11pm Friday & Saturday: 12pm – 2:30pm & 5:30pm – 12pm Sunday: 12pm - 10pm, eat as much as you can 12pm - 4pm (last order 3pm) Sunday dinner evening A-la-carte 5pm-10pm

SPEcial offEr every Wednesday & Thursday • Whole lobster £15 • (max 2 lobster per group),

• Whole seabass £8 • • half price • Crispy aromatic duck

UPcoMinG frEE livE MUSic:

Scott ElviS 25 April

PEtEr SniPP 30 MAy

KatiE SParKES 27 june

23 Station Square, Petts Wood, Kent, BR5 1LY Keep up to date with Ming restaurant news and offers via our web site: www.mingrestaurant.net Email: reservation@mingrestaurant.net • Telephone orders welcome: 01689 820 427 or 01689 828 986

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