Life magazines (Kent editions) January 2018

Porsche arrives in South London Opening 22nd January 2018 on Edginton Way, Sidcup, the 3136m2 Porsche Centre will offer the full range of Porsche services

WELCOME TO OUR

JANUARY ISSUE THE TEAM PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD

17, The Broadway, Old Hatfield, Herts, AL9 5HZ, UK 0844 800 8439 www.thelifemagazines.com

Get this issue online

© 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

17

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

45

HOUSE & GARDEN

63

FOOD & DRINK

77

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

Ja

n

ua ry

Sa

le

out & about – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – i m a g e : R O C H E S T E R C ATH E DRAL

OUT & ABOUT

until 31 january

Bridge Works: Crossing the River Medway The Rochester Bridge Trust has provided and maintained crossings of the River Medway for more than 600 years 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.

Open daily, from 10am until 4pm.

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

[events]

OUT & ABOUT

13 & 14 january

Christmas Tree Recycling Our famous Christmas tree collection service returns again soon. If you live in the Ashford Borough Council area, Pilgrims Hospices will collect your real Christmas tree from your property on the weekend of 13th and 14th January 2018 in return for your chosen donation to the hospice. We make no money from the trees so all donations made in return for this service add up to make a real difference for our patients. You’ll be able to book your tree for collection until 7th January. Doorstep collections from anywhere in the Ashford Borough area, in return for your chosen donation. 8am-4pm.

Ashford Borough area Kent TN24 0NE

“Pilgrims Hospices will collect your real Christmas tree from your property on the weekend of 13th and 14th January”

18 JANUARY 2018

3 february

Fort Amherst ghost hunt Experience a night of ghost hunting at Fort Amherst, Chatham with Ghost Hunt Events on 3rd February 2018. Participate in Séances, Vigils, Table tilting, Glass moving, Ouija boards, EVP Experiments, Automatic writing and much more. This is a serious overnight ghost hunt (paranormal investigation), and is conducted with our team of professional Mediums and paranormal investigators. We pride ourselves on having small groups for each activity (usually three or four) and allowing you free time to explore the venue using some of our equipment towards the end of the night. We can’t guarantee spiritual or ghostly activity but we can guarantee that everything you experience will be 100% real. Tickets £40 per person.

Over 18s only. Start time: 8.00pm until 2.30am. Event includes tea/ coffee throughout the night. Book now at www.ghosthuntevents.co.uk/ fort-amherst.php. £40 per person 8pm until 2am.

Fort Amherst, Chatham, Kent ME4 4UB

19 & 20 january

The Art of Passementerie: Decorative tassel making workshop This workshop is designed for anyone interested in making decorative textiles. Beginners are welcome. Join expert Anna Crutchley for a unique workshop that will look at traditional techniques of making a tassel, like those at Knole. Working with a rich colour palate of high quality yarns, you will learn techniques and create your own beautiful tassel to take home. Ticket price includes refreshments, lunch and all materials.

Booking Essential. Phone: 0344 249 1895. Please meet in the Hayloft Learning Centre.

Knole, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0RP

ADAM SWAINE PHOTOGRAPHY Interiors • Weddings • Portraits • Events

Email: adamswaine@rocketmail.com

Mobile 07798 526569

OUT & ABOUT

[events]

OUT & ABOUT

27 january

Taster Day Families are invited to the Pauline Quirke Academy Dartford for a free Taster Day. Let your children try our 3 classes in Musical Theatre, Comedy & Drama, and TV & Film, while you find out more about how we work, and look around the venue. Please call the Principal, Debra Baker, for more information and to book on 07468 697 994. 10am-1pm or 1.45pm-5pm.

Longfield Academy, Main Road, Longfield, Kent DA3 7PH

31 january

28 january

Medway Baby and Children’s Market Lots of stalls bursting with top quality like new and new baby and children’s items from birth to 8 years.

Plus a small selection of unique businesses in the baby and children’s industry showcasing and selling their products and services all under one roof! £1 entry per adult, kids free.

Parkwood Community Centre, Parkwood Green, Rainham, Gillingham, Kent ME8 9PN

28 january

Orpington for Bromley Toy Train and Model Collectors Fair New and used Railway, Classic Toys, Model Soldiers, SciFi characters etc. Includes two running railway layouts - Hornby Classic O Gauge and Hornby Dublo 3 Rail OO. Great time out for £2 admission Easy access from Orpington Station, adjacent to Crofton Roman Villa, plenty of local buses.

10.30am to 2pm. For late venue changes or to book a table for selling your old or surplus toys and model items contact Gerry on 07739 998 012. Light refreshments will be available.

Crofton Halls, Station Road, Orpington, Kent BR6 8PR

18 JANUARY 2018

Up close with Knole’s conservators Have you ever wondered what it is like to be a conservator working on a precious collection?

You can drop in to the Knole Conservation Studio on 31 January and meet our experts who will share their work, passion, decision making and sometimes frustration whilst working up close on a piece from Knole’s world-class collection. Each up close session will focus on a different specialism and object, led by a different expert from Knole’s conservation team. Booking not needed. The Conservation Studio can be accessed via the Brewhouse Courtyard.

Knole, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0RP

until 18 february

31 January - 3 February

Zippos Cirque Berserk!

Showcasing the finest in traditional circus thrills and skills, Cirque Berserk! celebrates the 250th anniversary of the invention of Circus by bringing this treasured form of live entertainment bang up-to-date in a jaw-dropping spectacular created especially for the theatre. Combining contemporary cirque-style artistry with adrenaline-fuelled stunt action, this astoundingly talented international troupe includes over thirty jugglers, acrobats, aerialists, dancers, drummers and daredevil stuntmen. Featuring the world’s most hair-raising circus act – the legendary motorcycle ‘Globe of Steel’. For show times, prices and tickets, go to orchardtheatre.co.uk/Online/tickets-cirque-berserk-dartford-2018 Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, Kent DA1 1ED

Exhibition: Clementine Churchill - speaking for herself Visit our new winter exhibition focusing on the extraordinary life of Sir Winston Churchill’s beloved wife Clementine Churchill. Discover never seen before objects on display for the first time and uncover the incredible stories of her life.

Booking Not Needed. Children are welcome. Assistance Dogs only are welcome. The exhibition is located at the end of the house tour. When the house is closed you can access the exhibition at the back of the house.

Chartwell, Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent TN16 1PS

OUT & ABOUT

14 january

Aylesford Farmers Market Aylesford Farmers Market is held on the 3rd Sunday of the month at Aylesford Priory between the hours of 9.30am -1.30pm. There are normally more than 45+ stalls. Contact Steve Wood 07876 685853.

Aylesford Priory, Aylesford, Kent, ME20 7BX

[events]

OUT & ABOUT 24 january

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy Bring Your Own Baby Comedy is the UK’s number one baby friendly comedy club! With the funniest stars from TV and the comedy circuit for you, and soft flooring, toys and more for baby, our shows are the perfect treat. We also provide buggy parking, baby changing and helping hands, so that you can relax and enjoy the show (and maybe a G&T). Our lunchtime shows feature a brand new line up of acts each month, so bring your baby and come and have a giggle with us. *Please note a 12 month age limit for our younger laughers as comics perform their usual adult material* Doors open at 11.30am for a 12pm start Tickets are £10 per adult (babies free) and are non refundable and non transferable.

The Plough, Leigh Road, Hildenborough, Kent, TN11 9AJ

27 january

RSPB Big Garden Bird Watch Come along and help us identify some of the River Cray’s birdlife.

Meet at the bird hide, follow signs on site. 10 - 2pm, free entry Hall Place & Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQ

15 & 22 january

Knole - Storytime in Knole’s bookshop Join the storytime fun in Knole’s bookshop where your little ones can enjoy short stories and nursery rhymes. This is a free event suitable for children under 5, running every Monday during the school term. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Booking Not Needed.

Aimed at children under 5.

Knole, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0RP

17 january

Stargazing Wrap up warm to spend an evening looking at the stars with Crayford Manor House Astronomical Society Dartford.

Outdoor activities are weather dependant. 7pm, £10 adults, £8 under 16s (includes tea & cake).

Advance booking required.

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

10 january

Garden Your Way To Health A talk by Nick Dobson on how gardening can be as good for you as going to the gym. It can also help people with arthritis and promote positive mental health by alleviating stress. 2.30pm (doors open 2pm), £4.20 per person. Advance booking required.

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

20 & 24 january

Birdwatching at Dungeness with Tonbridge RSPB Join us on an all day birdwatching trip, hoping to see great white egrets, rarer grebes, and good numbers and variety of wintering ducks including goldeneye and smew at this favourite destination.

Bring appropriate clothing for the weather, stout shoes, binoculars and a packed lunch. You don’t need to be a member: beginners and experts welcome! 10am at the venue. Booking essential.

Minimum donation £2 to the RSPB. Dungeness RSPB reserve, near Lydd, Kent TN9 2RH 22 JANUARY 2017

OUT & ABOUT COVER STORY

PORSCHE

ARRIVES IN SOUTH LONDON R

esidents of South London are being the given the chance to experience the latest Porsche models, with the launch of Porsche Centre South London – an exclusive, state-of-the-art Centre.

Opening on 22 January 2018, the 3136m2 Porsche Centre will offer a full range of Porsche services, including new and Porsche Approved pre-owned car sales, servicing, parts, and a service loan fleet, as well as a 14 bay workshop which includes MOT, four wheel alignment and Porsche Direct Dialogue Bays.

What’s more, visitors can take a demonstration drive in a Porsche model of their choice through a full fleet of Porsche demonstrator vehicles. The Centre will also stock a wide range of licensed products from the Porsche Driver’s Selection including ladies’, men’s and children’s clothing, personal accessories, toys and vehicle accessories.

Porsche drivers and enthusiasts can also choose from the Porsche Motorsport and Masterpieces collection, which includes the new 911 speaker.

The Porsche Principle At the heart of the Centre is the new Panamera Sport Turismo, which combines Porsche performance with comfort, space and luxury.

Representing the apex of design, performance and dynamics, drivers of the Panamera Sport Turismo get to experience power with grace. From the digital Porsche Advanced Cockpit to the benefits of optimal assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control and rear-axle steering, the Panamera Sport 24 JANUARY 2018

Turismo offers superb levels of control and responsiveness.

Porsche Centre South London is also proud to showcase the new Cayenne this spring. The much-anticipated third generation of the Cayenne incorporates a wealth of intelligent connected technology and advanced driver assistance systems, into its iconic design, to ensure the Cayenne maintains its position as the true sportscar in the SUV segment.

Lighter, longer and lower, the new Cayenne draws heavily upon the other sports cars in the Porsche family for its design inspiration and technology. All-new engines and a new 8-speed Triptonic S automatic gearbox deliver a sportier edge, while ride and handling performance are boosted by new chassis systems and active all-wheel drive.

Meet the team Porsche Centre South London comprises dedicated Porsche professionals. Each member of the team is committed to providing unparalleled customer service, along with a high level of integrity and passion. At the helm is Centre Principal, Chris Butler, who has over 20 years of experience in automotive retail: “Porsche prides itself on translating performance into success in the most intelligent way possible, to offer more than just a vehicle. It is an expression of freedom and a unique attitude to life, which is why I am thrilled to be part of this exciting new Centre.

“At the heart of the Centre is the new Panamera Sport Turismo, which combines Porsche performance with comfort, space and luxury”

“Our recent pop-up shop in Bluewater proved incredibly popular with local Porsche and car enthusiasts looking to get a sneak preview of what Porsche Centre South London will offer, so we have no doubt that Porsche Centre South London will prove equally, if not more successful.

“We encourage anyone looking to find out more about what Porsche can offer to visit us at the Centre.”

Work with us Porsche Centre South London is part of Jardine Motors Group, one of the largest and most successful automotive retailers in the UK, which also works at the forefront of the industry and pushes the boundaries of what a modern retail

“The new Cayenne draws heavily upon the other sports cars in the Porsche family for its design inspiration and technology”

experience delivers to both customers and employees. The Group prides itself on operating with a high level of integrity to deliver an exceptional customer experience. It is this ethos that sets it apart from its competition to create an inspiring and challenging workplace.

If you’re passionate about all things automotive and want to help us to drive this exciting business forward, then please email info@porschesouthlondon.co.uk – For more information on Porsche Centre South London visit: www.jardinemotors.co.uk/porsche/news/ porsche-south-london For more information about Jardine Motors Group please visit www.jardinemotors.co.uk

JANUARY 2018 25

OUT & ABOUT

Fat Friends at the Orchard Theatre with Kay Mellor

Fat Friends The Musical Monday 9 - Saturday 14 April Book online at Orchardtheatre.co.uk Ticket Office 01322 220000

“F

at Friends ran for four series on TV plus a Christmas Special and I felt at that time that it had run its course. But instead of wiping the characters from my brain like I usually do, it was always in the back of my mind and I remember thinking whether I could take it to America, or adapt it as a theatre piece. I never truly thought it could be a musical – because I didn’t think I could write musical lyrics and I know nothing about composing music.

A few years later, in between my other TV projects, I started to write the book (script) and then the lyrics seemed to come to me easily. I realised that knowing the characters is halfway through to writing the lyrics – it’s just like writing dialogue, but with a tune in your head. It was at that point when my producer, Josh Andrews, introduced me to Nick Lloyd Webber. He instantly understood the characters and my world - I found his music emotional and he understands what I’m writing. I’m immensely proud of what we’ve developed together and I can’t wait to share it with the world.

I will be directing the show but I’ve never worked with a Photographer: Helen Maybanks

26 JANUARY 2018

composer, a choreographer or a musical supervisor.

Putting on a musical is something that is completely new to me so it is a huge challenge. But I love it.

It’s going to be visually stunning, with larger than life characters and songs – I think the music is great.

It’s funny in parts but also sad in parts too.

The show looks at how we’re all obsessed with our body image and how everybody wants to lose weight, tone up. I think that’s something that’s only got worse since I wrote the TV series. I’ve brought it up to date though as it explores how things can go viral on the internet.

I think that people who haven’t seen the tv series will still relate to, and enjoy, the musical. We have done two workshops now in London and some people who came to them had never seen it on television – they loved the musical so much that they went out to buy the box set!” www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

Madama Butterfly T

he award-winning producer Ellen Kent returns to Bromley this Spring after her recent critically-acclaimed tours of Nabucco, Aida and La Boheme, with one of the world’s most popular operas, Puccini’s Madama Butterfly.

Introducing the celebrated soprano Maria HeeJung Kim* from the Korean National Opera, Seoul and the international soprano Alyona Kistenyova* with Vasyl Vasylenko, artistic director and conductor for the National President’s Orchestra of Ukraine, Kiev

28 JANUARY 2018

Madama Butterfly is Puccini’s popular tale which the hit West End musical Miss Saigon is based.

One of the world’s most popular operas, Puccini’s Madama Butterfly tells the heart-breaking story of the beautiful young Japanese girl who falls in love with an American naval lieutenant, resulting in heart wrenching drama. Highlights include the melodic Humming Chorus, the moving aria One Fine Day and the unforgettable Love Duet.

This magnificent production boasts a large live orchestra, exquisite sets including a spectacular Japanese garden and fabulous costumes including antique wedding kimonos from Japan designed by the renowned Russian designer Felix Bessonov, from St Petersburg.

“Stunning and emotionally charged” – Cardiff Morning Star

“This is a Butterfly to cherish” – Manchester Evening News

This production will be sung in Italian with English surtitles. *Cast Subject to Change

OUT & ABOUT

New Year, New Building and New Headmistress for Walthamstow Hall, Sevenoaks

W

althamstow Hall School, Sevenoaks, which celebrates its 180th anniversary this year, has seen in the New Year by welcoming its 9th Headmistress and opening a new Sixth Form Centre.

Miss Stephanie Ferro takes the helm from Mrs Jill Milner, who has retired after 15 years of dedicated service. During the last decade, Walthamstow Hall has undergone extensive development of its facilities and continues to nurture self–assured young women who are not only comfortable themselves (they are proud to be called ‘Wallies’), but look outward, recognising their wider responsibility as contributors.

Like her two predecessors at Walthamstow Hall, Miss Ferro is an alumna of St Anne’s College, Oxford University, and brings 25 years of experience to her new role, having taught and led pastoral and academic teams at a number of prestigious girls’ schools including Wimbledon High (Deputy Head, Pastoral), Lady Eleanor Holles (Senior Assistant Headmistress) and Redland High School (Headmistress). She takes up her post fresh from a term’s sabbatical, having enjoyed hiking in Europe, working as a consultant for a primary school, and brushing up on her Italian.

In December, Walthamstow Hall opened its four-storeyed Sixth Form centre. Shaped around 30 JANUARY 2018

“Like her two predecessors at Walthamstow Hall, Miss Ferro is an alumna of St Anne’s College, Oxford University, and brings 25 years of experience to her new role”

the school’s iconic symbol of a ship, complete with a spectacular glass prow, it boasts 10 additional flexible dedicated Sixth Form teaching spaces, a spacious Common Room and ICT suite, as well as another Science Lab and Technology Room. As this centre opens new and expanded opportunities for students, Miss Ferro looks forward to what it represents in the life of the school.

“I have found everything about Walthamstow Hall to be inviting. The emblem of the ship may seem an enigma in leafy Sevenoaks, but this school has at its heart a commitment to ‘journey’. My very first tour revealed not only the strong academic foundations of the past and the energetic excellence of the present, but students who are purposeful, who take pleasure in being part of a vibrant learning community, and an outstanding teaching staff who encourage each girl in their own personal voyages of discovery. I am really looking forward to embarking on our journey together and a future full of exciting possibilities.” www.walthamstow-hall.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

COLOSSAL KONG AT MADAME TUSSAUDS

L

ast year, The Kong: Skull Island experience arrived at Madame Tussauds with a thunderous roar as an eighteenfoot animatronic head of monstrous beast Kong touched down in the attraction’s bamboo-laden jungle.

Taller than a double-decker bus and as loud as a landing Boeing 737 jet, the latest addition to the venue amazes guests as they come face-to-face with one of the most powerful creatures in cinematic history.

Visitors can embark on an adventure deep into the tropical environment of the infamous Skull Island, where they will be challenged to evade the traps of colossal petrifying spiders and uncover artifacts from the film.

As they journey through the secluded bamboo jungle, they will be joined by a new wax figure of Captain James Conrad, played by British actor Tom Hiddleston in the upcoming film, before coming face to face with the enormous breathing, blinking, snarling and roaring mystical monster himself.

In partnership with Legendary Pictures and Warner Bros., the interactive Kong head took 33 engineers 72 days to build and weighs in at over 3,000lb – heavier than 10 real-life gorillas.

Visitors that take on the challenge to feel Kong’s roar are tracked on their jungle journey by the beast’s 22-inch-wide eyes, fitted with laser radar motion sensors.

“We’re elated to have this unique opportunity to bring fans into the mysterious world of Skull Island and face-to-face with Kong himself, said Legendary CMO, Emily Castel. “The level of detail that

32 JANUARY 2018

LONDON BIG TICKET The London Big Ticket puts visitors in control, offering great savings when you combine booking any of the unmissable Merlin London attractions including: the Coca-Cola London Eye, Madame Tussauds London, London Dungeon, SEA LIFE London, Shrek’s Adventure!

London, the London Eye River Cruise and Big Bus tours.

This ticket offer means guests will be able to visit a combination of these attractions from £40 and best of all, you get to pick the attractions to make up the offer.

Visit www.londonbigticket.com for more information.

Madame Tussauds has put into both Kong and the Captain James Conrad character figure truly promises guests a fully immersive experience that won’t soon be forgotten.”

Edward Fuller, General Manager at Madame Tussauds London, said: “This experience is as close as fans can possibly get to meeting a living, breathing Kong. Creating an animatronic of this size is a first for our attraction, it’s not often we reveal a new addition that stands taller than 5,000 stacked Oyster cards. We’ve worked closely with Legendary and Warner Bros. to ensure the experience is as accurate to the film as possible.

Guests are transported on an adventure with man of the moment, Tom Hiddleston, and literally feel the roar of Kong, king of the jungle.”

Kong: Skull Island is a permanent addition to Madame Tussauds London and is included in the price of regular admission. For more information, please visit www.madametussauds.com/kong. #feeltheroar. Twitter: @MadameTussads.

Instagram: @madametussauds.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ officialmadametussaudslondon. Opening times vary so check the website for details before visiting, www.madametussauds.com/london.

Marylebone Road, Marylebone, London NW1 5LR

OUT & ABOUT

A world of inspiration at the London Boat Show 2018 Wednesday 10th – Sunday 14th January, ExCel London

B

ack for its 64th year, the London Boat Show returns in January celebrating everything you can do and enjoy on the water. Bringing a world of inspiration, stunning yachts and on-water experiences, visitors will be treated to five days of the very latest in the boating world.

Incorporating the all-new Boating & Watersports Holiday Show, visitors will be able to get into the holiday spirit and plan their next water-based getaway. Whether seeking new adventures on the open ocean, a family-boating holiday on the UK’s inland waterways or checking out the latest in watersports gear, this brand-new Show will offer it all.

Over 300 exhibitors will be showcasing the best the marine world has to offer with debuts to the World and European stage.

34 JANUARY 2018

The event will also offer exciting attractions including: • Classic Boat Collection – a stunning collection of beautiful boats presented on a raised deck will greet visitors as the first thing they see when they enter the Show. Curators will be on hand to talk about their history, whilst visitors can get up close to view the detail of this remarkable collection.

• Practical Boating Theatre – using the deck of a boat as a setting for this brand-new attraction, expert advice and live, practical demonstrations will allow visitors to brush up on their knowledge or learn a new skill • The Legends Theatre – the place to see, hear and meet the legends of the sailing world, plus a few surprise guests along the way. Featuring films and stories of adventure, the Theatre will be hosted

by Sky TV’s, Alec Wilkinson

“The place to see, hear and meet the legends of the sailing world”

• Yachtsman’s Champagne Bar – the centerpiece of the Show, the Yachtsman’s Bar will offer visitors a meeting point and a place amongst the beautiful boats to have a drink with friends and soak up the atmosphere of this world-class event • Beach Club & Activity Pool – featuring a reallife sailing school on the sand, visitors can learn the art of dinghy sailing, kayaking or Stand Up Paddleboarding before having the opportunity to put their skills into practice on the Show’s stunning pool.

• Lock & Waterside Pub – the inland network and the Broads in Norfolk offer great family holidays and the opportunity to get active or simply chill out. The event’s very own Lock & Waterside pub, surrounded by narrow boats and river cruisers, kids play area and its own lock, is the best place to have a drink and think about your next family adventure.

• The Black & White Bar – with live music over the course of the five days, this is the London Boat

Show’s signature attraction. Remaining at the core of the Show’s social scene, it’s the place to swap stories, trade tips and plan the season ahead • Moët & Chandon Vintage Bar – Moët & Chandon Vintage Bar - enjoy an elect of luxury whilst indulging in a glass of premium champagne.

Alongside some fantastic attractions and thrilling entertainment, the show will bring together the great and the good from across the British and global market to the heart of the capital city. Whether you love boating, want to experience something new, or just want an enjoyable day out, the world-famous London Boat Show has something for everyone.

The London Boat Show at ExCeL London is organised by British Marine Boat Shows, a division of British Marine.

For more information visit www.londonboatshow.com

JANUARY 2018 35

OUT & ABOUT

ROARS INTO LONDON Greenwich Peninsula, From 12th February until September 2018

A

brand-new multimillion-pound attraction that brings dinosaurs to life as never before is coming to London for the first time in February. A unique, immersive live adventure, it has played to sell-out audiences of tens of thousands in its debut season at Birmingham’s NEC. The show’s unique time machine will be set up on Greenwich Peninsula in London and will take families back an astonishing 67 million years to encounter amazing creatures like Tyrannosaurus rex roaming the wild. Londoners will be immersed in an unforgettable experience that, for the very first time, will make them feel as though they are actually there – amongst the dinosaurs, in their world, at their time.

Dinosaur tourists are whisked by time machine to join scientists at an extraordinary research station – TimeBase 67 – which has been built on the Late Cretaceous plains 67 million years ago.

On the ultimate voyage of discovery, they drive with their guides through lumbering herds of dangerous dinosaurs, watch a dinosaur autopsy, witness hatchlings emerging from eggs, plunge their hands into dinosaur poo, and visit a lookout, with panoramic views of the teeming prehistoric life in every direction.

The Creative Director of Dinosaurs in the Wild, Tim Haines, was the award-winning producer of the

36 JANUARY 2018

“The show’s unique time machine will be set up on Greenwich Peninsula in London and will take families back an astonishing 67 million years to encounter amazing creatures”

BBC TV series Walking with Dinosaurs, seen by 800 million globally. Tim says, “After the huge crowds for Dinosaurs in the Wild in Birmingham, and the anticipation we’re already seeing for our move to Manchester in October, we’re thrilled to announce that Londoners will now be able to time-travel too.

It’s a completely new kind of immersive experience, in which we use the latest technology to make it feel like you really are there in that world, with the dinosaurs all around you.”

Over a hundred artists, technicians and other industry specialists worked to create the unique experience. It weaves together high-tech audiovisual effects, animatronics and live-action theatre to allow visitors to experience the prehistoric world in a way that has never been possible before.

The 70-minute adventure vividly reveals dinosaurs as they really were. Far from being green and scaly creatures, experts now believe that many were colourful and had feathers and fuzz.

Dinosaurs in the Wild opens its doors in London on Monday 12th February 2018 on Greenwich Peninsula, just a few minutes from North Greenwich Underground station.

Tickets to Dinosaurs in the Wild can be prebooked at www.dinosaursinthewild.com and start from £25 for Advanced Off-peak adult tickets and £85 for Advanced Off-peak family tickets (2 adults and 2 children).

OUT & ABOUT

‘Out Of The Blue’

A bar experience like never before.

T

he Blue Bar at The Berkeley has created ‘Out Of The Blue’ to take guests on an explorative journey of taste by stimulating the senses through a combination of the finest ingredients and bespoke technology. In partnership with Bacardi Limited, ‘Out Of The Blue’ allows up to four guests the exclusive opportunity to try curated cocktails in a secret space within the heart of the hotel where tailored technology, culinary science and mixology will meet to enhance the perception of flavour through sight, sound and scent.

Guests will be collectively immersed through a first of its kind technological collaboration between projection experts Igloo and sensory reality specialists Sensiks. Guests will enter a 360-degree projection environment where specially-designed film and molecular scents combine with bespoke cocktails, to craft a bar experience which blurs the lines between scent, sight and taste, creating a synesthetic immersion completely new to the London cocktail scene.

Taking inspiration from the Blue Bar’s True Colours menu, a set menu of four taster-sized cocktails has been created by the Blue Bar team

38 JANUARY 2018

using select premium spirits from Bacardi Limited portfolio (BOMBAY SAPPHIRE gin, GREY GOOSE vodka, BACARDÍ OCHO rum and ABERFELDY single malt scotch whisky) with the addition of Laurent-Perrier bringing an effervescent effect to one of the four. The cocktail sequence will interlock to create a coherent flavour experience, tantalising the taste buds through a journey where light acidity and sweetness is balanced by potency and depth.

By stripping away the traditional cues, the ‘Out Of The Blue’ experience will bring a focus on ingredients, allowing connoisseurs the chance to explore taste through a blank canvas and experience cocktails like never before.

Out Of The Blue’ is available with hourly slots between 5.30pm – 11pm, priced at £200 (inclusive of VAT) for up to four guests to experience privately.

To make a reservation please email the team directly on outoftheblue@the-berkeley.co.uk or via the website www.the-berkeley.co.uk/ knightsbridge-bars/out-of-the-blue. Claridge’s, the Connaught, the Berkeley. Maybourne Hotel Group; www.maybourne.com

“Guests will be collectively immersed through a first of its kind technological collaboration”

OUT & ABOUT

Fit for a Queen The Royal Warrant holders

From piano tuners to opticians to a whip maker, the Royal Warrant holders belong to a very special club

T

he history of the Royal Warrant can be traced back to medieval times, when competition for Royal favour was intense and the Monarch had the pick of the country’s best tradespeople. By the 15th century, the Lord Chamberlain, as head of the Royal Household, formally appointed tradespeople with a Royal Warrant of Appointment – a practice that continues to this day.

A Royal Warrant of Appointment – A crest that states “By Appointment To…” is a mark of recognition of those who have supplied goods or services to the Households of HM The Queen, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh or HRH The Prince of Wales for at least five years, and who have an ongoing trading arrangement.

The Monarch decides who may grant Royal Warrants. These are known as the Grantors: HM The Queen, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh and HRH The Prince of Wales. Today there are around 850 Royal Warrant holders representing a huge cross-section of trade and industry, from individual craftspeople to global multi-nationals. They are united by a commitment to the highest standards of service, quality and excellence. Almost all Warrant holders are members of the Association.

There are silversmiths and jewellers, champagne houses and wine merchants, wheelwrights and gun-makers, glovemakers, luxury car manufacturers, tailors and kiltmakers - the kind of luxury brands befitting of a royal family who reside in palaces and castles.

Some firms have a record of Royal warrants reaching back over more than 100 years. Warrantholding firms do not provide their goods or services free to the Royal households, and all transactions are conducted on a strictly commercial basis. Chocolatier Prestat was the last warrant

40 JANUARY 2018

holder to be appointed by the Queen Mother - who loved their chocolate mint fondants and violet cremes - in 1999.

To apply for a Royal Warrant, a company must have been doing business with the household for at least five years. If they are successful, they can advertise the fact by displaying the Queen’s coat of arms. “The Royal Warrant is the ultimate seal of approval,” says Roger Gadd of whip maker Swaine Adeney Brigg. “Our customers definitely take note of it, which is good for business.”

But a Warrant also carries with it responsibilities.

Beholders must exercise discretion, and make it their duty not to let standards slip. “Royal warrants don’t just cover what the Royal Family needs, but what a business needs, so there are agricultural and engineering service suppliers, as well as the technology that supports a large business,” says Richard Peck, secretary of the Royal Warrant Holders Association.

For more information about Royal Warrant holders visit www.rwha.co.uk

Prestigious Royal Warrant Holders in London include: Asprey Berry Bros & Rudd Ltd Cartier Elizabeth Arden Fortnum & Mason Jeeves of Belgravia Champagne Bollinger Gieves & Hawkes Holland & Holland Jeroboams The Ritz Hotel

Promote your business with professional advertising banners, displays and general print!

A-Boards

Business Stationery & General Print

from £57

Get 10% off

A1 posters

exc VAT & Delivery

£10 each

your first order on all general print when quoting: LONJAN1

High Quality Advertising Banners

from £8

when ordering 2 or more banners!

Roller Banners

from £55 exc VAT & Delivery

Includes: Full colour graphic + Carry Bag

Give us a call for a quote on 01992 700 311 • www.needabanner.com

OUT & ABOUT

Aashni + Co Wedding Show 2018 Comes to Somerset House on 21st January 2018

F

ollowing its continued success year on year and an ever increasing demand for tickets, the UK’s leading, South Asian high fashion extravaganza, Aashni + Co Wedding Show 2018 will return bigger and better than ever before.

After three successful residencies at The Dorchester, Mayfair and continuing to surpass itself each year, Aashni + Co Wedding Show 2018 will transform one of the UK’s leading cultural venues, Somerset House, into a wonderland for discerning brides and fashionistas alike, setting a landmark precedent in the South Asian fashion and bridal sector in the UK. Some of India and Pakistan’s most celebrated designers will once again descend on the Capital to present their latest bridal and couture collections on one high-end platform, from established, A-list fashion houses to the most sought after new-gen talents.

Showcasing alongside them will be the leading names in fine jewellery, accessories and wedding/ occasion services, with visitors having the opportunity of meeting their favourite and wish list designers and suppliers in person, accessibility being key to the show.

The full line-up of participating brands to exhibit in the Department of Clothing will be: Sabyasachi, Tarun Tahiliani, Gaurav Gupta, Rimple & Harpreet Narula, Astha Narang, Bageecha, Elan, Gaurang, Mishru, Samant Chauhan, Shantanu & Nikhil, Shehla Chatoor, Shyamal & Bhumika and Varun & Nidhika.

Exhibiting brands in the Department of Fine

42 JANUARY 2018

Jewellery include: Amrapali, Araaya, Jaipur Gems, Jewels by Queenie, Khanna Jewellers, Moksh and Sunita Shekhawat.

Participating names in the Department for Jewellery and Accessories include: Aamir Naveed, Ahujasons, Amishi London, Chakra, Isharya, Outhouse, Rani Pink, Rusaru, RWS, Shaan Mu and The Wedding House.

Aashni + Co Wedding Show 2018 will also curate the latest bridal, occasion wear and couture collections from the top tier of the South Asian design spectrum, alongside the leading brand names in jewellery, accessories and wedding services.

THE DETAILS Aashni + Co Wedding Show Somerset House, Strand, WC2R 1LA 21st January 2018, 10.30am – 6.30pm

Standard Tickets: £25 via www.wslondon.com For more details of Aashni & Co visit www.aashniandco.com

Email: weddingshow@aashniandco.com Facebook: Aashni & Co. Official Twitter: @AashniUK #aashniweddingshow Instagram: @aashniandco

fashion, HEALTH

& beauty

– Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i m a g e : L O ND O N F A S HI O N W E E K P R E VI E W

OUT & ABOUT FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

ROWHILL GRANGE HOTEL AND UTOPIA SPA, WILMINGTON, KENT

W

ith Christmas and New Year now over for another 12 months, why not take some time out to relax and revitalise yourself with a rejuvenating spa experience.

The Roman inspired award winning Utopia spa at Rowhill Grange Hotel, spread across 2 floors of pools, bubble tubs, sauna and steam rooms, has been designed to take guests on an intimate spa journey. Whether you’re relaxing by the swimming pool, taking a dip in the hydrotherapy pool or letting the monsoon showers wash away everyday stresses and strains, you’ll experience true Utopia.

Take some well-deserved time out to indulge on a full or half day spa experience with full use of the award-winning facilities and bespoke spa treatments from our extensive spa treatment menu.

Rowhill Grange boasts 21 treatment rooms including a double treatment room for couples therapies, as well as a nail spa with bespoke manicure and pedicure stations, with therapists who are experts in their field.

Spa guests can make full use of the gym and enjoy the great outdoors by exploring 25 acres of gardens and grounds.

When dining, guests can expect a truly delicious treat! A tasty two course lunch bursting with the latest seasonal produce and delicious new flavours or the ultimate in British tradition ‘Afternoon Tea’ with added YUM as everything is made in-house by Rowhill Grange Hotel’s very own pastry chefs!

Why not treat yourself and enjoy our exclusive ‘Just for January’ spa day from only £155! With £150 to spend on your choice of spa treatments, refreshments on arrival and of course a delicious two course lunch or afternoon tea.

Visit us at www.rowhillgrange.co.uk 46 JANUARY 2018

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Leah Lodge & Rectory Court Luxury Care Homes in Blackheath

Caring like family At Cinnamon we are fortunate to meet and learn from all sorts of inspiring people as we provide residential, respite and dementia care in our wonderful homes. We shall never forget what a privilege it is to provide care and support to the fascinating people who live with us at Leah Lodge in Blessington Road, Blackheath, and newly opened Rectory Court off Lee Terrace.

There is no ‘one size fits all’ in our world, so everything we do is shaped around the needs of the people who live with us. Whether it is the personalisation of care plans, the careful selection of rooms or the choice of a gin and tonic before lunch – people will always come first.

The difference is… the people who work with us Although you can teach people the skills of the job, no-one can be taught the care and compassion that you will find in our teams. You are either born with it or you are not.

Everyone who works for Cinnamon embraces the company’s philosophy: they are ‘determined to be the difference’ in the lives of the residents, their families and friends. There is an intrinsic belief that ‘life is for living’, regardless of age.

Our people are the real difference – it is as simple as that! Above and beyond, going the extra mile – however you describe it, we can promise that every member of the Leah Lodge and Rectory Court teams has a natural desire to do a little bit more just to make someone’s day.

Delectable dining every day We pride ourselves on providing a superb dining experience using quality ingredients from carefully selected suppliers. Mealtimes are one of the highlights of the day – a time when people come together to socialise in one of our dedicated dining rooms.

Our chefs consult with each and every resident to understand their preferences and the menus they 48 JANUARY 2018

plan are a match for any high-quality restaurant.

The professional kitchen team thrives on creating delicious and nutritionally balanced dishes including some adventurous recipes to complement the more traditional fare and the home-made cakes and biscuits that are always on offer.

Friends and family are always welcome to join us for lunch or dinner and you will often find our Head Chef discussing ideas, recipes and ingredients with residents as they sip on an aperitif.

Inspiring activities Every day is different in our homes and every activity is designed to meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of the people who live with us.

We believe that our residents should shape their own social lives and entertainment which is why they play a central role in planning the calendar of events in our homes.

Whether it is an exercise class, a theatre trip, a talk on local history or gardening club, our Social & Events Manager will arrange activities to reflect the interests and hobbies of the people who live with us as well as encouraging new pursuits! At Leah Lodge we have even involved our residents in a ‘Pimp my Zimmer’ activity, customising their mobility aids so they are easier to identify and, as a result, falls have decreased!

But for those seeking peace and tranquillity, there are plenty of quiet corners to enjoy a good book and a relaxing cup of coffee.

Community At Cinnamon, we are proud to be well-known and deeply rooted in our community with a reputation for being a welcoming and inspiring place to visit.

Our close bonds with the local area encourage visits from schools, places of worship, clubs and community groups so they become a regular feature of life in our care homes. Christmas has seen visits from Riverston School, St Margaret’s Church and a musical group ‘Alberts’ from the Royal Albert Hall, amongst many others.

THE DETAILS For further details about the amazing care at Leah Lodge (Blessington Road, Blackheath, SE13 5EB) and Rectory Court (The Glebe, Blackheath, SE3 9TU) call us or visit our website: www.cinnamoncc.com.

Leah Lodge Care Home: 0208 318 2272.

Rectory Court Care Home: 0203 797 7620

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

HOW A SIMPLE HEARING TEST MIGHT PREVENT DEMENTIA

Do you or anyone in the family: • Have the T.V turned up too loud?

• Constantly ask people to repeat themselves?

• Misunderstand conversations, saying yes when it should be no etc.

• Hear people talking but can’t always make out what is said • Find it harder to hear in background noise, such as a car, restaurant, family gathering etc.

• Watch peoples lips more closely so as to hear them better • Start to limit or avoid social activity or interaction.

50 JANUARY 2018

Well, now there is a greater reason to get your hearing checked as researchers believe hearing loss is linked to dementia. Recent studies suggest that people who experience hearing loss could be more likely to develop dementia than those without.

Evidence shows that mild hearing loss doubles the risk of dementia, with moderate hearing loss leading to three times the risk, and severe loss can increase the risk by up to 5 times! Having a problem with your hearing can accelerate the rate of cognitive decline by about 36%.

Typically, 90% of hearing loss is age related

“It is often hard to separate the signs of hearing loss with those of dementia, especially when one problem may mask another”

which is caused by the gradual and permanent damage to the hair cells in the inner ear, which transmit signals to the brain. The symptoms of hearing loss can be similar to the early signs of dementia. For example, an individual can become confused about what is happening around them and struggle to follow a conversation. This can unfortunately make diagnosing dementia in someone with hearing loss or vice versa more difficult.

According to the latest research in The Lancet (which reviewed 13 studies linking the two conditions – hearing loss and dementia) up to a third of over 55s in the UK are thought to have some degree of hearing loss and this has been linked to one in ten cases of dementia.

Scientists claim that picking up a hearing loss in middle age and treating it could prevent as much as 9% of dementia cases, far more than the 2 % linked to high blood pressure and 1 % linked to obesity.

A further study is looking in to whether using hearing aids could help slow the disease or even prevent its progression. According to Dr. David Reynolds of the charity Alzheimer’s Research UK ‘hearing loss is a risk factor which we may be able to be modify to reduce the number of people who develop dementia or the rate of progression if they’ve already got it.’ Of course, one way to modify certain hearing losses is through the use of hearing aids.

Preventing hearing damage in the first place could also be extremely important, so wearing hearing protection for concerts, work, using power tools and keeping the volume down when wearing headphones may help over time.

There are a number of theories on how hearing loss is linked with dementia. One that corroborates this is that hearing loss causes individuals to become withdrawn and socially isolated. Social interaction stimulates the brain and helps to strengthen connection between brain cells which is essential for preventing dementia.

“Hearing loss is a risk factor which we may be able to be modify to reduce the number of people who develop dementia”

Another theory is that hearing loss physically damages part of the brain, leading to dementia.

One study using brain scans showed that the brains auditory cortex (the area that processes sound), was smaller in patients with hearing loss than in those with normal hearing. Another suggests that hearing loss damages part of the brain that processes language, an area that is also known to shrink in dementia patients. Both shrinkage and a loss of brain cells is symptomatic of Alzheimer sufferers.

Professor Clive Ballard of age-related diseases at Exeter University (Who co-authored the study in the Lancet) says ‘If you are not using that part of the brain it could start to die off. The lack of stimulation might alter the way brain cells interact and cause atrophy – loss of brain cells.’

Hearing loss is emerging as a relatively new risk factor in dementia and a lot more is needed to understand more about the link. It is often difficult to separate the signs of hearing loss from dementia, and often one condition may mask another. However, one thing is clear - if someone has the signs of hearing loss or dementia then it is important to have regular hearing tests and where required, make the most of their hearing – for example, by using hearing aids.

Evidence suggests that proper diagnosis and management of hearing loss may reduce the risk of dementia and also its impact, more notably in the early stages. In particular, the latest evidence suggests that wearing hearing aids actually helps by improving working memory – the short-term memory that we use in completing everyday day to day tasks. Hearing aids can also help prevent some of the other associated risks and conditions with dementia such as depression and falls.

To book a FREE hearing consultation then contact Sound Advice Hearing on: Tel: 020 8663 6187 Email: info@soundadvicehearing.co.uk or visit our website www.soundadvicehearing.co.uk JANUARY 2018 51

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

WHY MOVE TO A RETIREMENT COMMUNITY? P

eople used to feel that their options narrowed in later life. Growing older meant downsizing from a much-loved family home to something smaller with little or no facilities. Today, with more people living longer than ever before, there’s a brighter alternative.

Moving to a retirement village opens up new prospects and broadens your horizons. It allows you to enjoy a modern, independent lifestyle without the burden of maintaining your house and garden, together with the reassurance of staff on-site 24-hours a day.

Emerson Park, which opens in spring 2018, demonstrates how retirement communities in the UK have now caught up with those on offer in America, where they have been around for far longer. Situated on Rowhill Road in Hextable, its enviable location combines the peace and tranquillity of a traditional English village with easy access to the bright city lights – central London is just a 36-minute train journey away. This, coupled with its proximity to the M20 and M25, makes it easy for friends and family members to visit.

Retirement villages are specifically designed to keep residents healthy, active and social. Emerson Park offers a range of five-star facilities including a state-of-the-art exercise studio and gym, hair and beauty salon, and a purpose-built cinema room.

There is a feast of dining choices from a healthy snack in the café/bar to 3-course dining in the elegant ambience of the Club Room restaurant.

A full-time Social & Events Manager plans and organises events and activities inspired by the residents’ interests. In addition, a private transport service opens up opportunities for trips to local shops and day excursions to nearby places of interest.

Nowadays retirement villages offer larger properties in-line with what customers are looking for and Emerson Park is no exception. It offers 47 luxury apartments ranging from 682 sq.ft to

DETAILS 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

52 JANUARY 2018

1,080sq.ft, all of which are purchased on a 125-year lease.

All of the one- and two-bedroom apartments are designed to accommodate the needs of discerning older people, from the stylish kitchens and bathrooms to the contemporary lighting and double-glazing. For peace of mind there is an audiovisual entry system from each apartment to the main entrance, plenty of outside lighting including passive infra-red sensors and a 24-hour emergency call system to an on-site team should you need it.

For those who feel they need a bit more help, Emerson Park offers five spacious one-bedroom Service Plus Suites. These are located with easy access to all the communal facilities and come with practical, discreet support services including a delicious three-course lunch, an hour a week of housekeeping and an on-site laundry service.

Moving to a retirement village such as Emerson Park means that everything from lawn care to routine maintenance is done for you, leaving you free to enjoy yourself. You can lock-up and leave knowing that your home will remain safe and secure, give you the opportunity to travel or visit family and friends, free from worry. Becoming part of a community of like-minding people, sharing similar interests and making new friends is often an unexpected bonus. In addition, unlike some accommodation options, Emerson Park welcomes people with pets as well.

For anyone seeking a luxury retirement that gives them the time and freedom to enjoy doing the things they love, a retirement community could easily provide the perfect answer.

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

BEAUTY & FASHION “This umbrella has an instant classic look with a feel of British luxury”

BRIGHTEN UP WINTER All these umbrellas are lovingly made and assembled in London, England. The canopies are manually cut and each umbrella is hand finished. With its grey exterior canopy, its beech wood tip and shaft and its scorched maple wood handle, this umbrella has an instant classic look with a feel of British luxury when it is closed. The pink tie brings a slight twist to the overall look, which takes its full swing once the umbrella is fully opened revealing a second pink canopy and bringing a stunning splash of colour on a rainy day. We also love the Eye Candy range of dress socks!

Umbrella, £125; Eye candy Socks, £12.75, both from www.heating-and-plumbing.com

“It has a simple grey ‘ticking’ striped cotton lining and grey coloured woven shoulder strap. The Jacob and Suffolk breed of sheep are featured”

cosy up

Grey bobble hat covered with gem stones and topped with a black pom pom made with lambswool and has a large black pom pom on top decorated with glittering gem stones. £30, www.historicroyalpalaces.com 54 JANUARY 2018

in the bag This gorgeous bag from Sophie Allport is a great all-rounder. It can be used as a shopping bag, a book bag, gym bag, beach bag, swimming bag or everyday tote! It has a simple grey ‘ticking’ striped cotton lining and grey coloured woven shoulder strap.

The Jacob and Suffolk breed of sheep are featured on a grey background on Sophie Allport’s Sheep collection. £21. Available at www.sophieallport.com or 01778 560256 with worldwide delivery.

freshen up in style This STANLEY® Wash Roll Kit features three zipped storage compartments in varied sizes and a metal hanger. The tan leather buckle closure on the front of the roll can be unattached for usability.

Perfect for use as a wash roll, travel bag, tool pouch or dopp kit, it’s the ideal size for storing your essentials for any excursion.

The hard wearing 18oz canvas kit features a two-tone design and displays the STANLEY® logo embroidered onto the front.

For over 170 years STANLEY® has been synonymous with quality, reliability, innovation and value. From the “do-it-yourself ” to the professional contractor, our innovative products have helped build, repair and protect our world. Today that legacy continues. It’s a safe bet that STANLEY® has the right tool for the job. £45, Wild & Wolf, www.johnlewis.com

WE LOVE

This beautiful gold-plated sterling silver ring with an organic, natural feel to the shape, with a single zirconia stone.

Pernille Corydon Gold Bay Ring £45, www.printerandtailor.com

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

London Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2018 Preview, 16th – 20th February 2018

L

ondon Fashion Week is one of the highest profile fashion events in the world - and one of the ‘big four’ international catwalk influencers alongside Paris, Milan and New York. It presents an unrivalled opportunity to showcase some of the world’s leading fashion talent, with the schedule packed with shows, presentations, showrooms, events and parties from the best and brightest names in the industry.

While most of us are not even thinking about our summer wardrobes, designers will be showcasing their Autumn/Winter 2018 Collections.

It’s a week where designers are free to create at will and experiment with new trends, with the world watching as fashion history is made.

Returning to the show are luxury designer brands including Burberry, Antonio Berardi, Jasper Conran, Aspinal of London, David Koma, Pringle of Scotland, Mulberry, House of Holland, Peter

56 JANUARY 2018

“It’s a week where designers are free to create at will and experiment with new trends”

Main image: Burberry Show Finale Above: Naomi Campbell & Penelope Cruz At The Burberry Show

Pilotto, Sophia Webster and Temperley London.

Fashion retailers, hotels, restaurants and bars across London join in the celebration of London Fashion Week by hosting special events and promotions both in-store and online.

Designer Showrooms, located at The Store Studios, 180 Strand, is home to over 150 British and international designers. The international element of the showrooms illustrates that the doors to London are truly open, with designers showcasing from Dubai, Finland and South Korea. The pull of London on a global scale is undeniable. The UK continues to be an attractive and fertile home for an array of designer businesses of any size.

Of the four fashion capitals, London is the only city that hosts the Designer Showrooms in the same venue as the official British Fashion Council (BFC) Show and Presentation Space. The LFW Designer Showrooms have launched many global brands, including a number of on-schedule designers.

The magic of London Fashion Week is not merely thanks to the fashion designers’ and fashion stylists’ cutting-edge collections but the media excitement that accompanies them. The allure of the show is exceptional and London Fashion Week continues to be the top fashion event pulling visitors from every corner of the globe.

For more information about London Fashion Week including up-to-date schedules, news, video and much more go to www. londonfashionweek.co.uk. Follow on @LondonFashionWk and join the conversation #LFW

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

new year

Liz Connor finds the ultimate lust list for gym bunny girls and fitness fanatic guys

FITNESS ESSENTIALS for him

Nikon KeyMission 360 kK Ultra HD Action Camera

Nokia Steel HR Tracking Watch

Small, simple and tough, this nifty action camera mounts onto everything from helmets to surfboards and captures ‘point of view’ surroundings in 360-degree HD. It’s water, dust and shockproof, meaning they can take it diving through shoals of fish, or on high-altitude expeditions, should they wish. Perfect for the adventuring Instagrammer. £319, Currys.co.uk

Who said fitness trackers couldn’t look like a luxury timepiece? This one, from Nokia, is one of the best-looking you’ll find. Slip it on and it subtly tracks the wearer’s steps and distances travelled, and can even estimate the calories they’re burning during exercise.

Best of all? It won’t look out of place in the boardroom. from £119.95, Health.nokia.com

Salomon Intensity Long Tight The North Face Better Than Naked T-shirt A quick-drying T-shirt is an invaluable investment if you’re planning to get back into the gym this January. Anyone whose sweated their way through a weightlifting session in a regular cotton top will tell you: every man needs one of these in his arsenal. £45, Thenorthface.co.uk

He’ll be thankful for these running tights, when he’s battling through a frosty early morning training session. Providing amazing support for long-distance trails, the compression fabric in these durable tights will keep him toasty in bonechilling temperatures, while also keeping muscles moving at maximum speed. £60, Salomon.com

Nike Zoom Fly 4% Running Shoe This is Nike’s ‘best’ running trainer yet.

Their lightweight foam and carbon-infused plate promises to help push them further in their marathon training (4% faster, to be precise). Pricey, but a solid investment for any runner looking to take their race game up a notch. £129.95, Nike.com

58 JANUARY 2018

Bose SoundSport Pulse Wireless Headphones Don’t let them be the only person at the gym still getting into a tangle of wires on the treadmill. If you’re thinking of getting some sporty wireless headphones, you can’t get much better than this pair from Bose. Not only do they pack enough battery juice for a five-hour gym session, they also have a handy built-in heart-rate sensor that syncs with your phone. £199.95, Bose.co.uk

Adidas Supernova Storm Jacket Die-hard runners, who are working on their PB come rain or shine, will love this waterproof jacket. It’s made from an ingenious sweat-wicking fabric, so you won’t feel like you’re operating at greenhouse temperatures while running in the rain. The lightweight material means it can easily be rolled up and tucked away in a bag too. £62.95, Adidas.co.uk

for her Fitbit Alta HR There are a dizzying number of wearables out there, so it can be confusing to know where to invest your cash. Fitbit’s latest arm candy is a safe place to start.

Perfect for both amateurs and athletes, it monitors your heart rate, tracks your sleep and prods you with reminders to keep moving throughout the day. £109 (Currys)

Puma Running NightCat Protect Top Come rain or shine, this outer layer will be her best friend on winter runs. It’s wind and waterproof with a scuba hood, to keep you dry when the British weather predictably takes a turn. Reflective inserts on the sleeves ensure you’ll be safely seen after the sun sets. £90 (puma.com)

Varley Runyon Noir Marble Bra Gone are the days of unsightly sports bras. This one from Varley is comfortable, stylish and has subtle mesh panelling to keep cool during intense workouts. The trend-ticking marble print is just an added bonus. £50 (varley.com)

Lululemon In Movement ? Tight Much like an LBD, every woman should have a good pair of yoga leggings in her wardrobe.

This flattering pair from Lululemon come in a cheery festive hue and fit to the body like a second skin. The sweat-wicking fabric means you can take on the most fiery of Bikram sessions and still emerge (relatively) dry. £88 (lululemon.co.uk)

Sweaty Betty Luxe Gym Bag This gym bag will see her through plenty of tough gym sessions to come. The stylish, lightweight design means it can easily be taken from workout to work, with separate zip pockets to stow away wet kit. The best bit?

Clever straps at the bottom, so you can secure on your yoga mat before hitting the studio.

Easy-breezy. £95 (sweatybetty.com)

Adidas UltraBOOST Laceless Running Shoes Going for a run just got easier with Adidas’ new laceless running shoe. The sock-like fit of these super-lightweight trainers hugs the foot so that it moves in harmony with your stride, whether you’re doing a sprint finish at a marathon or simply jogging to the shop. They’ll also make a great addition to any athleisure wardrobe. Slip in and fly. £159.95 (adidas.com)

Manduka Prolite Yoga Mat No yogi’s gym kit is complete without a good quality yoga mat, and there’ll be no embarrassing slips during a headstand with this one. Made from a lightweight, high-density material, this easy-to-carry mat has excellent grip, whether you intend to use it for a few light stretches, or a full-power yoga workout. £60 (yogamatters.com) JANUARY 2018 59

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

AWARD WINNER

Welcome to Appearances Aesthetics, a multi award-winning permanent makeup and skincare clinic in Chislehurst Kent. Gillian Huntley is now a proud Gold Award WINNER in the Kent Health and Beauty Awards for the Overall Contribution to the Health and Beauty Industry 2017!

H

aving achieved a highly successful and recognised business over 30 years, I believe I am unique and have set myself apart in the industry, with my awards, dedication, professionalism and experiences.

My experience ensures I deliver dedicated, passionate, VIP/Red Carpet bespoke services, in a safe, hygienic environment.

My latest awards for 2017 include Winner of the Kent Health and Beauty Award for Overall Contribution to the Health & Beauty Industry, SemiFinalist of CIBTAC / BABTAC, Kent Aesthetician of the Year. I am so proud of what I have achieved.

I help people with serious illnesses such as cancer, alopecia, Trichotillomania, vitiligo, and people who have suffered burns injuries, to improve their confidence so they lead happier lives.

I hold open sessions for Cancer, Alopecia and Trichotellomania patients, offering a monthly free treatment as part of “giving back”. I am honoured and privileged to help people undergo remarkable transformations making a huge positive difference to changing and improving lives.

I am always striving to pioneer and help people with the use of my skills, expertise and qualifications. I hold an unparalleled portfolio of non-surgical procedures in the fastest growing industry. Apart from being outstanding in all the “normal” life changing treatments that I perform, through working with an Orthopaedic Surgeon, I have been able to introduce a revolutionary new tattooing procedure, which I perfected on his patient who has a congenital disfigurement of her toes. My treatment was published in the British

60 JANUARY 2018

Medical Journal in 2015.

I train with top Educators in UK, Europe and USA, ensuring my treatments are the highest standard. I continually attend training courses to ensure I keep up to date with the latest developments in my industry – I have recently completed 2 Advanced Sterex Academy Courses for Advanced Electrolysis and Advanced Cosmetic Procedures in which I achieved 100%. In attending regular training courses, I stay at the forefront of the developing treatments in my field, ensuring my treatments are always up to date and relevant.

I am passionate about giving back to my clients and the community. I fundraise for several charities especially Breast Cancer, having raised over £25,000.

I also volunteer for the Look Good Feel Better charity, a female cancer support charity that run free of charge skincare and make-up Master classes for women undergoing treatment for, or living with, cancer. I am also seeking to expand my volunteering services; I am awaiting the development of the Macmillan Cancer Centre at Queen Mary’s Hospital in Sidcup, where I seek to volunteer in a similar way with patients living with, or recovering from, cancer.

I am delighted I have earned trust with my Micro pigmentation, gaining a very high profile client Dame Kelly Holmes. I have also been on Local Radio and filmed for Sky TV performing Eyeliner Micro pigmentation.

I work alongside doctors, nurses and surgeons who refer patients to me, sometimes removing the need for further surgery. I am proud to hold endless glowing testimonials, from clients, doctors, surgeons and Industry professionals.

Gill Huntley

Appearances, 20 Berens Way, Orpington, Chislehurst BR7 6RJ 07711 067789 www. appearancesaesthetics.co.uk

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.

Specialists in anti-ageing treatments including: Specialists inBotox anti-ageing treatments including: ○ anti-wrinkle injections Specialists in anti-ageing treatments including: APPEARANCES AESTHETICS ○ Botox anti-wrinkle injections ○○ Juvederm facial &injections lip fillers Botox anti-wrinkle ADVANCED AESTHETIC CLINIC ○ Juvederm facial lip fillers 07711 067 789 ○○Laser hair&removal Juvederm facial & lip fillers gillian@appearancesaesthetics.co.uk Follow Gillian at: www.appearancesaesthetics.co.uk ○ Laser hair removal ○○Caci Lasernon-surgical hair removalfacelift ○ Caci non-surgical facelift ○ Caci non-surgical facelift

○ Hyperhidrosis (anti-sweating)

○ Hyperhidrosis (anti-sweating) ○ Hyperhidrosis (anti-sweating)

Highly experienced Doctors

Highly experienced Doctors Doctors Highly experienced and medical professionals Highly experienced Specialists in anti-ageing treatments including: and medical professionals and medical Specialists in anti-ageing treatments Doctorsprofessionals and medical ○ Botox anti-wrinkle injections 7 clinic locations including including: professionals 7 clinic locations including 7 clinic locations including ○ Juvederm facial & lip fillers Huntingdon, Harley Street  Botox – anti-wrinkle injections Huntingdon, Harley Street Huntingdon, Harley Street ○ Laser hair removal 7 clinic locations & Peterborough  Juvederm – facial and&lip fillers Peterborough & Peterborough ○ Caci non-surgical facelift including Sevenoaks,  PDO thread lifts ○ Hyperhidrosis (anti-sweating) 6 days aaweek Open 6 Open days a week Harley 6 daysStreet, weekHove &  Hyperhidrosis (excess sweating)OpenRichmond To speak our medical Toto speak totoour  Migraine injections To speak ourmedical medical service service team or to book ato free, team book a free, free, service team6or or to book a Open days a week Highly experienced Doctors no obligation consultation nonoobligation consultation obligation consultation and medical professionals

03300330 024 1300 024 0330 024 1300 1300

call To speak to our medical service callcall 7 clinic locations including team or to book a free, novisit www.meliorclinics.co.uk Huntingdon, Harley Street visitwww.meliorclinics.co.uk www.meliorclinics.co.uk visit & Peterborough obligation consultation email enquiries@meliorclinics.co.uk Open 6 days a week

To speak to our medical47 Dartford service team or to book a free, no obligation consultation

call 0330 024 1300 visit www.meliorclinics.co.uk

emailenquiries@meliorclinics.co.uk enquiries@meliorclinics.co.uk email

10 St Sevenoaks Peters Road, Huntingdon PE29 7AA Road, TN13 3TE (free parking!)

Peters Road, Huntingdon PE29 1010StStPeters Road, Huntingdon PE297AA 7AA

OUTDOOR LIVING

HOuse &

garden – Keep it local for everything house and home – I M AG E : F IV E WAY S F IR E S & S TO V E S

H OUSE & GARDEN

About FIVEWAYS FIRES & STOVES W elcome to Fiveways Fires & Stoves! We are a family-run business offering you a wide variety of fireplaces to choose from at our fireplace shop in Eltham, London.

Choose from one of our wood burning stoves or our hole-in-the-wall gas or electric fires to keep you warm all winter and to give your room, large or small, a beautiful new focal point. We really are unique! We are Gas Safe Registered and HETAS approved, so not only do we have quite the selection in our London showroom, we also complete the installation ourselves rather than pass your work to unengaged subcontractors. Our standards are high and our experience is vast, so you will benefit not just from our knowledge when it comes to choosing the right fire for your needs, but the person who helped you choose your fire will actually install it for you too!

As a family ran business you can expect the family treatment – we want to be sure you make the right decision for your home. Visit our fireplace showrooms in London to check out our wide range of products or for some advice on choosing the right fireplace.

Our showroom is always stocked to help fire up your inspiration and give you some new ideas, and we’re always on hand if you want to have a chat or get some advice on what options would work for your lifestyle and needs. We’ll be with you every step of the way, guiding you through the whole process of selection, installation and servicing.

Being Gas Safe registered and a HETAS

64 JANUARY 2018

“Our showroom is always stocked to help fire up your inspiration and give you some new ideas”

approved installer we pride ourselves on being a friendly and helpful team while upholding a high level of customer satisfaction. Competitively priced, all clients are offered a full and complete service, from an initial free site survey all the way through to installation.

In June 2015, Fiveways Fires & Stoves successfully met the professional assessment standard to become a Which? Trusted Trader and is committed to abide by the Which? Trusted Trader code of conduct.

Lots of companies sell great fireplaces. What they can’t do though is also offer you the installation and servicing while managing all the little details that give you peace of mind as well as a greatlooking new fireplace.

We can: We offer a completely free, noobligation quote following a site survey.

Now it’s over to you…

Please call us on 020 8127 4747, email us on info@fivewaysfires.co.uk or visit our showroom

Big enough to cope… small enough to care…

• All aspects covered, free quotes, clean and reliable • Proudly servicing the Bromley Borough and surrounding areas • We are happy to plaster a small ceiling to a block of apartments

Fully insured - clean - reliaBle

thomas plastering 01689 820096 • 020 8819 0528 07931 278405 • 07802 543926 Email: thomasplastering@hotmail.com www.thomasplastering.co.uk

H OUSE & GARDEN

SBI

Veranda Lux Patio Roof Make the most of your patio, terrace, court yard or walkway all year round by enjoying a new Veranda from SBI Ltd.

T

hese stand alone patio roofs have high grade aluminium frames with a choice of clear, opal polycarbonate or glass roofs and they can be designed as ‘lean to’ structures or completely free standing.

Verandas enable you to continue with your party whatever the weather.

SBI also offer a wide range of wind stable, fixed frame retractable awnings that are the latest offerings in design direct from Germany. They can also provide you with traditional awnings, canopies, giant umbrellas, sail shades, screens and all types of internal and external blinds and shutters.

Some of the advantages of owning a Veranda are protection to your expensive garden furniture.

Keep your patio free from frost, snow and ice. A safe place for you and your children to relax or play as the glazing in the roof helps to stop harmful UV rays. More space to entertain your friends and family and no need to come in doors when the rain clouds gather.

When the sun goes in, you don’t have to, with a touch of a button you have instant heat and lighting that can be turned up or down to suit your requirements. Your Veranda can shelter you from the rain with the addition of horizontal and vertical screens. Screens can be made from double glazed glass units, electrically or manually operated roller screens or simple clip on screens.

What ever you require to cover your patio or terrace we can provide you with a wide choice of contemporary or traditional styles to suit your property and budget.

SBI have been supplying and installing top quality products to both home owners and commercial customers alike since 1998.

We offer a full design and installation service throughout the South East and have a network of dealers that will be happy to serve you through out UK.

66 JANUARY 2018

When the sun goes in, you don’t have to, with a touch of a button you have instant heat and lighting that can be turned up or down to suit your requirements.

THE DETAILS Call SBI for more information: Freephone 0800 0742 721 email sbi.install@btinternet.com or visit the website at www.sbiproductsltd.co.uk to view our gallery of domestic installations or for commercial installations please visit www.shopblindslondon.co.uk

GET INSPIRED Free Local Delivery Personal expert advice

Bringing style to a Tile The latest ideas for walls and floors

Tel: 01732 459 765 sales@freelands-tiles.co.uk

124-126 London Road, Dunton Green, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2UT

Open 7 days a week

www.freelands-tiles.co.uk

fiveways fires & stoves

743-745 sidcup rd, new elthaM, se9 3sa (located along sidcup Bypass)

Stay warm with our stunning range of fires and stoves experienced, friendly & family run showroom. hetas and gas safe engineers.

Multi fuel stoves all defra approved, gas fires and Mantles, the new optimist range of electric fires and stoves. open 6 days a week: 10 until 6.

0208 127 4747

www.fivewaysfires. co.uk

H OUSE & GARDEN

Sundridge Interiors QUALITY AND DESIGN

A

mongst Sundridge Interiors many services the most popular of all is their “design service”. This superb service is the answer to the challenges facing customers when considering making changes to their existing home or starting afresh with a new home.

The reason for this is simple, Sundridge Interiors offer a “tailor made” design service to suit all budgets. Sundridge always get the project moving by visiting their clients home, they discuss the requirements of each client in detail and get a real feel of the project and what will be involved.

The Sundridge approach is simple, they take one room at a time giving due consideration to extended areas throughout the home in order to create a sense of continuity and harmony. Then mood boards are created by selecting a variety of styles and fabrics – wall coverings – flooring – lighting – furniture – decorative objects. These all become an integral part of the theme, creating a comfortable, harmonious atmosphere.

After discussion with the client a specific theme will be agreed. At this point samples will be ordered on a larger scale for both fabrics and upholstery 68 JANUARY 2018

“Ideas can be transformed into reality, for example a coffee table or a pair of armchairs can be made by working closely with the furniture makers”

to get a clearer vision of the end result. Clients are encouraged to visit to the showroom during this process because this joint discussion forms an important part in the creation of the specific required style of room or rooms. At this time clients can peruse the many other items on display in the showroom, extensive lighting displays and table lamps are strategically placed on various items of furniture throughout the showroom to give clients an idea of how they will look in the home.

There are also a wide selection of mirrors to suit all rooms in the house, these are displayed on a variety of walls and colourings. Bespoke furniture is another part of the service on offer from Sundridge. Ideas can be transformed into reality, for example a coffee table or a pair of armchairs can be made by working closely with the furniture makers.

Clearly lighting plays a major part in the creation of beautiful bathrooms. They have a wide selection of concealed ceiling lights which are complimented with floor and cabinet lighting, all are on display for customers to see. Sundridge Interiors are truly successful and have a waiting list for their design services, however clients are seen quickly and usually work is able to start within three weeks from the first meeting. The time span tdesign a room from start to completion is approximately four weeks and as an example the design fee for an average sized room is approximately £495 and for much larger rooms or rooms which have an annex leading from them the cost will be approximately £695.

Sundridge Interiors, 11-12 Sundridge Parade, Plaistow Lane, Bromley Kent BR1 4DT Tel: 020 8466 6313; www.sundridgeinteriors.com

JANUARY SALE 15% OFF 11 SUNDRIDGE PARADE PLAISTOW LANE BROMLEY BR1 4DT hELLO@ARkkhOME.cOM WWW.ARkkhOME.cOM

H OUSE & GARDEN

Eloquent Eastern Interiors WORDS: Anna Howell

J

apanese is a language with an innate lyricism and rhythm. It is the mother tongue of the Haiku, a tiny poem that in just 17 syllables promises to break your heart or instill some powerful universal truth. And just as the Haiku is soulful and sweet, so are the Japanese philosophies that are captivating the imaginations of designers and homeowners in 2018.

Split into several distinct parts, Japanese aesthetics can be best understood through the creations of contemporary designers. While verbal translations can often lead to slippages in meaning, design manages to distill what words cannot, offering us an artistic way in to these elusive Eastern ideas.

First up is the principle of Fukinsei, captured effortlessly by B&B Italia’s Tobi Ishi Dining Table.

Fukinsei highlights the flawed, asymmetric beauty of the natural world, which is full of harmonious relationships that are contrasted yet balanced.

The asymmetric proportions of this stylish dining table establish an arresting focal point, a moment of synchrony in a hectic, modern world. Its calming appearance inspires us to get back to the dining table with family and connect in whatever way we can, putting an end to dinners spent in front of the TV. The takeaway here is that complimentary things are rarely identical, and through the meeting of different personalities and styles, true harmony can be found.

Datsuzoku asks us to transcend convention, claiming that only when a well-worn pattern is broken can true creativity and resourcefulness

Noguchi Coffee Table

by Vitra - £1,390

emerge. We are all products of our environment, yet we don’t realise the stifling influence a poorly planned home can have on us.

One man who set to break with convention was the Japanese sculptor, Isamu Noguchi. His eponymous Noguchi Coffee Table was designed in 1947 and eschewed traditional templates of what a modern table should be. Instead of the predicable four legs he created a mesmerising sculpted base with a freeform glass top. It has since gone on to become an icon of 20th century design, gifting style and sinuosity to homes all over the world. He proved that revitalizing your home with gorgeous design isn’t just about aesthetics. Surrounding yourself with furniture that surprises and delights is an excellent way to stay inspired and kick-start new routines.

While each of the teachings offers a new lesson, they often overlap and interconnect, revealing a peaceful existence that is in stark contrast to our breathless Western lifestyle.

Shizen translates to a desire to be ‘of nature’ yet somehow distinct from it, a concept that is eloquently expressed in Umut Yamac’s Perch Collection for Moooi. In a wonderful display of contemporary lighting design, several birds balance on a metal perch, free to swing when touched or blown. Their moving joints allow for a joyful interaction between user and object, one that is fleeting yet sweet. Available as a table, floor, pendant or wall light, each carefully crafted bird emits a serene gush of illumination, powered by ecologically efficient LED bulbs.

In a world intent on moving ever faster, these Japanese philosophies ask us to rediscover a gentle joyfulness in our physical environment, trusting in the power of good design to dissolve into our everyday behaviour. To discover more inspiring designs, head over to the Chaplins website at www. chaplins.co.uk, or pay a visit to our 25,000 sq ft showroom in Hatch End. .

Chaplins Furniture, 477-507 Uxbridge Road, Pinner HA5 4JS Telephone: 020 8421 1779 Website: www.chaplins.co.uk

Tobi Ishi Dining Table by B&B Italia - £4,070

Sake Sofa by B&B Italia From £6,115

70 JANUARY 2018

Perch Table Lamp by Moooi £1,110

Now Celebrating Platinum retailer with

15% off

up to carpets* plus FREE fitting** on all carpets

WINTER PROMOTION 10% OFF KARNDEAN

PREMIER SHOWROOM

2b/2c, Fairway Station Square, Petts Wood, Kent BR5 1EG Telephone: 01689 822100

216-218 High Street, Eltham, SE9 1BA Telephone: 020 8294 2660

www.brflooring.co.uk *on selected items **Free fitting on minimum order of 10sq metres

H OUSE & GARDEN

Grants

of sevenoaks John Grant has been creating high quality, bespoke kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, studies and free standing furniture for over 30 years.

“I combine traditional hand crafted joinery methods and hand finishing to the highest standards with modern superior fittings, accessories and appliances�

E

ach piece of furniture, whether free standing or fitted is created to my client’s individual design and personal needs.

I am keen to hear their ideas and will advise on all types of different woods and their benefits, as well as painted finishes and the final result and appearance.

Competitively priced*, I combine traditional hand crafted joinery methods and hand finishing to the highest standards with modern superior fittings, accessories and appliances.

I encourage my clients to view each commission as it takes shape at my workshop in Seal to ensure that their needs are met, even if this changes as the work progresses. I arrange and coordinate the whole process from design to completion. * All of our bedroom and kitchen furniture is priced by the metre run Unit 3, Chart Farm Seal Chart, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0ES; Telephone: 01732 763610 or 07809 504251; info@grantsofsevenoaks.co.uk www.grantsofsevenoaks.co.uk

72 JANUARY 2018

H OUSE & GARDEN

Big enough to cope, small enough to care New kitchen ceiling and re-plastering of cloakroom.

“Excellent job carried out to a very high standard.”

T

homas Plastering have been trading since 2001. The company was started by Greg Thomas and from humble beginnings have become the largest plastering provider in North Kent /South London.

We now have a large team of friendly, highly skilled and motivated plasterers that carry out all internal/external work.

We work in all different sectors, from direct with a householder to new build works. We currently work for 80 contractors including house builders, loft converters, kitchen/bathroom fitters, decorators, general builders etc

Although plastering is considered to be a ‘messy trade’, we do our up most to ensure that our customers houses are treated with respect and fully cleaned on the completion of works.

As we have very few overheads, no offices or admin staff, we are able to pay good rates of pay to our guys and therefore attract the best tradesmen.

The main areas that we cover are South East London and Kent, although we sometimes travel further afield if a project appeals to us.

The fact that we have worked in such a tight catchment area for a good length of time , with our distinctive logo on our vans and uniforms is of comfort to our customers that they will be provided with a good level of service.

Our company motto ‘big enough to cope, small enough to care’, epitomises that we can carry out works on a grand scale, with the same level of personal service that we provided when the company started. We aim to continue to grow organically as a company and will only take on the right staff with the correct skill set, that will fit in with our company ethos, we always aim to use traditional plastering methods, whilst incorporating any new ideas that may improve our finished product. We would like to wish all of our current and future customers a healthy and successful 2018.

– Greg Thomas and the team www.thomasplastering.co.uk

Repairs to plasterboard kitchen ceiling and replastering.

“Very good work done efficiently and on time.”

Cement render the whole garage and bits around the windows “They were recommended by my next door neighbour.

They came and gave me the quote. I asked if they could start as soon as possible, and they said ‘Tomorrow?’. Next day they arrived at exactly 8am and immediately got to work.

They finished the first layer on the first day, then two days later came an finished the top coat. After it was all complete, they made sure there was no mess anywhere, and completely cleaned up the area.”

Render new extension to match existing.

“The team was awesome.

They were all on site 15 minutes early. Setup a clean mixing area. Did the work, cleaned up better than before they arrived!

Worked late to finish a section in one go. The work exceeded my expectations.

I will provide them any reference they want, they were outstanding.”

74 JANUARY 2018

NOW OPEN

FOOD & DRINK – Bringing you updates on the local food and drink scene – i m a g e : P UTTING DAIR Y BA C K O N TH E M E NU

FOOD & DRINK

A WARM WELCOME AT MING

O At the Ming restaurant you can be sure of a warm welcome and fantastic Chinese food.

78 JANUARY 2018

“Much thought and appreciation has been given to the art and presentation of the authentic dishes�

ur set menus are specially designed to create a balanced Chinese meal which alternates the fine flavours, sharp, hot, bitter, sugary and salty to the full. The various dishes which constitute the meal follow the organised scheme of colour, flavour and scent.

Much thought and appreciation has been given to the art and presentation of the authentic dishes.

The restaurant has special tables available for your special celebration or business fun and we can cater for groups. The manager on duty at this restaurant will be pleased to assist you with full details.

23 Station Square, Petts Wood, Kent, BR5 1LY Telephone: 01689 820 427 or 01689 828 986 www.mingrestaurant.net

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: 12:00pm – 2:30pm & 5:30pm – 11pm Friday & Saturday: 12:00pm – 2:30pm & 5:30pm – 12:00pm Sunday: eat as much as you can last order 3pm Sunday & Bank Holidays: 12pm – 2:30pm & 5pm – 10pm (Sunday lunch buffet 12-4pm & a la-carte 4-10pm)

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 31 JAnuAry chinESE nEw YEar raY lowE 19 februAry chinESE nEw YEar PEtEr SniPP 20 februAry KarEn BizzEl 28 MArCh Scott ElviS 25 April PEtEr SniPP 30 MAy KatiE SParKE 27 June raY lowE 25 July

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

FOOD & DRINK

PUTTING DAIRY

BACK ON THE MENU How and why to eat dairy now: Cookery writer Annie Bell dispels the myths

MYTH: EATING DAIRY PRODUCTS IS BAD FOR YOU “The truth is there is no evidence to support it being in any way harmful. It’s an extraordinary food if you think about the range of nutrients it contains. It also has this incredible collection of micronutrients - in particular, the calcium. There is no other food that can match it or come even close to it. Dairy is a highquality fat and it has a wide array of benefits. There are all the fat-soluble vitamins that it carries, which you will only get in full-fat dairy, not in skimmed milk and low fat. It also keeps you full for longer - fat acts in a way, after you’ve eaten, that it promotes the release of this particular hormone which stops you feeling hungry and eating again at the next stage.”

WORDS: Kate Whiting, Press Association

MYTH: PEOPLE WITH LACTOSEINTOLERANCE CAN’T EAT ANY DAIRY “A lot of people, if they have any kind of digestive issues, might think, ‘I wonder if it’s dairy, why don’t I cut it out?’ But even if you are lactose-intolerant, you don’t have to give up dairy [completely]. Lactose is water soluble, so it’s contained in the whey rather than the fat. So in the cheese-making process, if you remove the whey, you’ve normally removed a lot of the lactose.

The problem areas are things like wet cheeses, so quark, cottage cheese, ricotta, which are high in lactose.

But very mature cheeses, things like Parmesan, hardly have any lactose, and by turning butter into ghee, you basically remove the lactose content, which is in the milk solids. So by clarifying butter, it becomes a pure fat that you can cook with.”

FACT: AIM TO EAT 3 PORTIONS OF DAIRY A DAY “I find the most helpful way of including the right amount of dairy in my daily diet is to treat it as I do my five-a-day fruit and veg, by aiming for three-a-day of different types. A bit from each fat level is probably the ideal; one low, one medium, one high, bearing in mind that their size is proportionately smaller the higher the fat. So it could be you have a 150g portion of yogurt, perhaps you use some sour cream in a sauce to go in a salad and then use a small, matchbox-size portion of a high-fat cheese.”

C

ookery writer Annie Bell has an MSc in human nutrition. She splits her time between a flat in London and a 17th century farmhouse in Normandy, where the local markets are full of artisanal cheeses, and is a big advocate for dairy. She even calls it a “superfood” in her new book, The Modern Dairy.

Annie gave up dairy for several years after her mum died seven years ago - but a check-up at the doctor’s turned out to be a wake-up call. “I had this real loss of appetite and went off dairy,” she recalls. “The doctor gave me a sheet of facts about calcium and how to get it. It was such an eye-opener, that there was almost no other way of getting it, so now I make a point of eating dairy every single day.” Now a fully-fledged fan of the stuff, there’s no looking back for Annie. Here, she sorts some of the dairy facts from fiction...

80 JANUARY 2018

The Modern Dairy: Nourishing Recipes Using Milk, Yogurt, Cheese And Cream by Annie Bell is published in paperback by Kyle Books, priced £16.99.

FACT: THE HIGHER THE QUALITY, THE BETTER IT IS FOR YOU “There is a massive difference between pasture-reared cattle and those that are basically just kept indoors in barns and fed on grain. One route is organic produce; it’s readily available, and also treating yourself to the nice, artisanal cheeses, there’s a good selection in supermarkets. I would avoid the block-style commercial cheeses, those are the ones that have less [nutritional] value and more salt.”

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.

Special lunch menu All week:

ÂŁ7.50 for a drink, starter and main course.

318 High Street, Orpington. BR6 0NG

01689 829341 www.joykitchen.co.uk

Dine in, take away and delivery*

We’re on Trip Advisor

Find us on Facebook

FOOD & DRINK

MARCUS WAREING’S HONEY-BAKED FETA WITH LAVENDER, THYME AND RYE CRISPS

This cheesy baked feta makes an ideal winter snack.

M

asterChef presenter Marcus considers this baked feta “a great alternative to a traditional cheese board”, while he loves the fragrant lavender in the dish, noting that “it really adds a point of difference”. Crusty bread and cheese crackers will go well with it too.

Ingredients: (Serves 4) • 1 x 200g block feta cheese • 1/2 loaf rye bread • 4tbsp olive oil • 1 garlic clove, halved • 3-4tbsp runny honey • 4 sprigs of thyme • 2 sprigs of fresh lavender or 1/2tsp dried lavender • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6.

2. Cover the feta with two pieces of kitchen paper and leave at room temperature for one hour to absorb excess moisture.

3. Cut the rye bread into very thin slices. Place them in a single layer on two baking trays. Drizzle with the olive oil and rub each slice with a halved garlic clove.

4. Bake the rye slices in the oven for seven to 10 minutes until lightly golden and crisp. Remove the rye crisps and turn the oven to its grill setting.

82 JANUARY 2018

5. Remove the kitchen paper from the feta and place the feta in an ovenproof dish just large enough for it to fit in snugly. Drizzle the honey on top, then add the thyme and lavender. Season well with salt and pepper and grill for five to 10 minutes until golden.

6. Remove the cheese from the grill. Serve the feta immediately with the rye crisps.

New Classics: Inspiring And Delicious Recipes To Transform Your Home Cooking by Marcus Wareing, photography by Jonathan Gregson, is published by HarperCollins, priced £20.

Available now.

107 QueeNSwAy, pettSwooD BR5 1DG

TUESDAY NIGHT SPECIAL

SPECIAL SUNDAY BUFFET

3 Course meal Including Starter, Main Dish, Side Dish, Rice or Nan of your choice + coffee for only

Indulge yourself in our extensive selection of Buffet Dishes From 12 noon until 5pm

*****

£10.95

(King prawn £2.00 extra per dish)

*****

Adults

£8.50

01689 871104 RAjDoot-pettSwooD.Co.uK

under 12s

£4.95