Sevenoaks Life Magazine June 2014 by Fish Media Group Ltd

SEVENOAKS LIFE WESTERHAM, OXTED, BECKENHAM, CHISLEHURST, TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND THE EXCLUSIVE SURROUNDING AREAS

ISSUE 63

www.thelifemagazines.com

JUNE 2014

ROYAL ASCOT 5 SPECTACULAR RACING DAYS 17th – 21st June 2014

NOSTALGIC KNOCKHOLT BUSTLING BEXLEY VILLAGE KITCHEN SUPPLEMENT ROCHESTER OLD WORLD CHARM

KENT EVENTS

HISTORY

FASHION

HOMES & GARDENS

HEALTH & BEAUTY

FOOD & DRINK • TRAVEL

HARWOODS KENT

Why go anywhere else. - Test drive the latest 2014 Land Rover models. - Servicing from £299. - Over 300 Approved Used vehicles in group stock. Call us to book your test drive today. Harwoods Tonbridge, Vale Rise, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1TB 01732 353637 harwoods.tonbridge.landrover.co.uk Harwoods Edenbridge, Stanfords End, Hartfield Road, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 5NG 01732 863303 harwoods.edenbridge.landrover.co.uk Official Fuel Consumption Figures for the 2014 Land Rover range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 47.1 (6.9) - 15.4 (18.3) Extra Urban 62.8 (4.5) - 29.1 (9.7) Combined 56.5 (5.0) - 22.1 (12.8) CO2 Emissions 181 - 299 g/km. The figures provided are as a result of official manufacturer’s tests in accordance with EU legislation. A vehicle’s actual 2 JUNE 2014 fuel consumption may differ from that achieved in such tests and these figures are for comparative purposes only.

W E L C O M E

elcome to the June issue.

PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD

The Ridings Woodfield Lane Essenden, Herts AL9 6JJ Tel : 0844 800 8439 Fax : 01707 655 718 www.thelifemagazines.com Email: peter@fishmediagroup.co.uk

Editor Faye Manning Assistant Editor Katie Miller Sub Editor Alex Lux Fashion Editor Kitty Shead Contributors Maureen Cole John Ruler John Bly Bruce Edwards Jack Smith Regan Maloney Design & Production Amanda Jane Spicer Photography Adam Swaine Accounts Kathy Manning Ken Fleet Business Development Managers Lisa Westerman Sinead Shell SALES Vanessa Lane James Marshall DIRECTORS Peter Smith Rory Smith Patrick Smith

We know that our readers enjoy nothing more than dressing up and getting out and about, that’s why we have featured Royal Ascot on our front cover and in the magazine this month. The spectacular five days of Royal Ascot has become one of the iconic summer highlights of the British social and sporting calendar. This year’s theme ‘the Great British Drama’ adds even more excitement to the amazing experience of the world class racing, fine dining and high fashion. Full details of ticket prices are on page 34. As usual our Local Life team have been out ..... This month we are and about visiting and reporting on more local pleased to include our towns and places of interest. The superb summer KITCHEN LIFE Maureen Cole has been Rochester and Bexley Special Supplement ...... to Village, Adam Swaine our chief Photographer focussed on some interesting shots along the A20, whilst John Ruler takes a nostalgic look back at Knockholt in his wonderful black and white feature. This month we are pleased to include our summer KITCHEN LIFE Special Supplement highlighting the very best local kitchen specialists for you to consult for advice, tips, ideas and suggestions before you decide which kitchen and kitchen accessories are right for you. In addition to a review of the Chelsea Flower Show we have included all your favourite subjects and interests in the June issue. Bruce Edwards reviews more recent Books. We ‘Bring the indoors out’ in our Home and Garden section. Our Fashion pages ‘Cosset Cossie Confidence’. We Travel to Lake Garda. Celebrity Chef Nathan Outlaw ‘Takes the bait’ with some scrumptious Recipes. Regan Maloney reviews more local restaurants. We encourage you to ‘Smell like Summer’ in our Beauty pages and as usual there are a wide variety of local events in our Whats On section. We hope you enjoy the June issue as you will see there is so much for you to read and enjoy. Until next month………………..

All Rights reserved. All Fish Media Group Ltd magazines are copyright and cannot 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 any of our publications and any loss arising. Whilst every care is taken with all materials submitted to all of our magazines the publisher cannot accept the loss or damage to such material. The 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 misprints or mistakes and no responsibility can be accepted for the content of these pages.

You will be pleased to know that you and your friends can now read our magazines online at www.thelifemagazines.com To advertise contact Lisa on tel: 07904 251984 or email lisa@fishmediagroup.co.uk or Peter on tel: 077111 43342 or email peter on peter@ﬁshmediagroup.co.uk

JUNE 2014 3

4 JUNE 2014

JUNE 2014 5

Advertisement feature

Audi arrives in Tunbridge Wells August 2014.

A state-of-the art showroom is coming to West Kent this summer with the arrival of Tunbridge Wells Audi. The new environmentally friendly Audi Centre, which incorporates solar thermal water heating and energy saving LED lighting, will open in August on Dowding Way, next to Fountains Retail Park. The existing Tonbridge Audi Centre will be relocated to this new premium and much larger site. With the move to Tunbridge Wells comes the opportunity to add to the 70-strong team of Audi experts, all dedicated to serving Audi customers with superior levels of care. The showroom will provide a premium location in West Kent/East Sussex where visitors can browse Audiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award-winning range of new and used cars, experience the technologically sophisticated models set to arrive

throughout 2014, and purchase and maintain their cars receiving the highest levels of customer service. In what will be a first for Audi in the South East, the new Tunbridge Wells Centre will offer a charging point for the Audi A3 Sportback e-tron plug-in hybrid car, due to go on sale in the UK later this year. It will also be a fully approved, high performance Audi RS and R8 sales and technical centre. Further, Tunbridge Wells will be one of the first centres to offer a Private Customer Configuration Lounge, where buyers can use the latest touch screen technology to choose the complete specification for their new vehicle, and see it in high definition on an 80 inch LED television screen. Customers will also be able to enjoy a relaxing cafĂŠ lounge area, plus a Direct Service Reception where they can watch their car being serviced via a monitor and

Tunbridge Wells Audi (Coming soon) Dowding Way, Tunbridge Wells TN2 3UY www.inchcapeaudi.co.uk Part of the Inchcape Group 6 JUNE 2014

Tunbridge Wells interact with the technician carrying out the work. With a large new flagship car showroom, a bigger approved used car display, more visitor parking and a state-of-the-art car servicing area, Tunbridge Wells Audi will provide customers with the ultimate in quality service and care. For further information on the fourth coming Tunbridge Wells Audi Centre please contact Tonbridge Audi today. Tonbridge Audi Brook Farm, Five Oak Green Road, Tonbridge, Kent, TN11 OQN Tel: 0845 164 0550 www.tonbridgeaudi.co.uk

Audi will benefit from: • Latest Audi terminal design • R8 & RS model specialist • 17 new car showroom • 90 used car display • 2 handover bays to enhance • Handover customer experience • Latest Audi car configurator • Media room • Customer lounge

with Coffee bar

JUNE 2014 7

L O C A L E V E N T S

What’s on... JUNE 2014

ARTISTS’ OPEN STUDIO. Exhibition of paintings, linocuts, screenprints, handmade bags, jewellery and cards. Visitors are welcome to watch demonstrations and talk to the artists about their work. Refreshments and parking. The studio will be open from 10 am to 5 pm. Free entry. Eildon, Seal Hollow Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 3SF. Fri 13 Jun to Sun 15 Jun, Fri 20 Jun to Sun 22 June. Tel: 01732 453808 www.carole-aston.co.uk

4.30pm. Adults £1.00, children free. Tickets at the event .Bishops Mead on the A25, Sundridge, Kent, TN14 6EQ. Sun 13 July. Tel: 07722010317

COUNTRYSIDE DAY AT KESTON 2014. This popular annual event will take place from 2pm - 5pm on Sunday 29 June on the Common opposite The Greyhound. A wide range of organisations connected with conservation and countryside pursuits will be present, together with country dancing and music from Keston Primary School and a display by the Ravensbourne Morris Men. The event will be hosted by Friends of Keston Common . Further information www.friendsofkestoncommon. btck.co.uk.

OPERA GIOCONDA. The Opera Gioconda group of singers perform favourite arias and duets at an afternoon houseparty concert in the grand surroundings of a Regency stately home. Afternoon teas are available. The concert is part of the Sevenoaks Summer Festival 5pm; Tickets £8 (£6 concessions/ St Julians Club members). St Julians Club, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0RX. Sun 22 Jun. Tel: 01732 458261 www.stjulians.co.uk

SUNDRIDGE FETE AND EIGHTH ANNUAL CAR SHOW. Traditional Kentish Fete in the lovely gardens of Bishops Mead on the A25, Sundridge. Entertainment for all the family, children’s and competitive adults’ games, craft stalls, beer tent, Pimms tent, strawberries and cream, home made traditional ice creams, tea and cakes etc, alongside the eighth annual Sundridge special interest car show: hundreds of vintage, classics, sports, muscle, custom/hot rod, American classics as well as international historic race cars and motorcycles. 2.00pm to

8 JUNE 2014

OPEN STUDIO IN SEVENOAKS. Original paintings in a variety of media by local artists Roland Courtney, Peta Stockton and John McBrien. Free entry. All works for sale including greetings cards. Studio open from 10am to 5pm except Tuesdays when we are open 7pm to 10pm. Part of the South East Open Studios event – see www. seos-art.org Free admission 124 Chipstead Lane, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2AL Sun 15 Jun, Tue 17 Jun to Sun 22 June Tel: 01732 451737 www.seos-art.org

CHARITY FUN CLASSES AT SILKEN WINDHOUND DOG SHOW. UK Silken Windhound Club are holding an ISWS Breed Specialty Show followed at 2.00 pm by Charity Fun Classes which will be for Silkens and others who would care to join in. Supporting registered charity Hospice In The Weald. Entries on the day, judging not before 2.00p.m. Charity classes are £2 per entry. Rosettes for all classes, with prizes. Come and join us having fun and meet some hounds from a UKC breed at the same time - America’s first Sighthound The Silken Windhound. Capel Village Hall, Five Oak Green, Nr Tonbridge, Kent TN12 6R. Sat 28 June www. uksilkenwindhoundclub.org

HOUSE-PARTY CONCERT IN A REGENCY GRAND STATELY HOME . Two Great Banjoplayers Geary Allen and Rick Townend (with their respective bands) show off the breadth and excitement of the bluegrass banjo style. Delicious food available before the concert. 8pm. Tickets £9 (£8 concessions/ St Julians Club members) St Julians Club, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0RXThursday 3 July. Tel: 01732 458261 www.stjulians,co. uk THE WORLD GARDEN AT LULLINGSTONE CASTLE OPEN GARDEN FOR NGS. Interactive world map of plants laid out as a map of the world within a walled garden. The oceans are your pathways as you navigate the world in 1 acre. You can see Ayers Rock and walk alongside the Andes whilst reading intrepid tales of plant hunters. Discover the origins of some 6,000 different plants - you’ll be amazed where they come from! Open:For NGS: Sun 15 June (12-5). Admission £7, Children £4. Times:Opening:12-5. Tel:01322 862114. For other opening times and information, please phone or see garden website. Open for charity. The World Garden at Lullingstone Castle, Eynsford, Kent, DA4 0JA. Sun 15 June.Tel: 01322 862114 www. lullingstonecastle.co.uk ALL SAINTS FAMILY FUN DAY. Fun for all the family. Games, Tombola, Craft Stalls, Cakes, refreshment, Children’s colouring competition.11am -2.30pm. Admission FREE. All Saints Church, Hall and Grounds, Bercta Road, New Eltham, London SE9 3TZ. Sat 5 Jul Tel: 0208 8590599 www. allsaintsneweltham.org.uk HALLIWELL MIDSUMMER FAIR. East Peckham Silver Band. Quality Craft Stalls. Collectables and Vintage Ware. Traditional Fair Sideshows. Homemade

Produce and Plants. Fancy Dress Competition. Face Painting Raffle.Tombola. Art Display. Strawberry Teas. Pre-loved Books. DVDs. Gift Stall. Musical Entertainment. Treasure Hunt. 12.00 - 4.30pm. Halliwell, Kingswood Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 4UN. Sat 21 June. Tel: 01892 525909 ROTARY CLUB OF CHISLEHURST SUMMER FAIR. Our summer fair is ideal for the entire family with food, stalls, amusements, entertainment, music and drink. Each year the event attracts thousands of local people who come to enjoy the free entertainment and to support local charities and business. 10am – 4pm. Free entry to all. Chislehurst Common, Kent, BR7 6AH. Sat 14 June www. rotary1120.org/chislehurst BOUNDES END - OPEN GARDEN FOR NGS. Garden designed by owners on an unusuallyshaped 1/3 acre plot formed from 2 triangles of land. Front garden features raised Bedfordshire and the main garden divided into a formal area with terrace, pebble bed and 2 pergolas. An informal area in woodland setting with interesting features and specimen trees. Plenty of places to sit and enjoy the garden. Open: Sun 29 June (11-5). Admission £3, Children free (share to Hospice in the Weald). Tel:01892 542233. Visitors also welcome by appointment July to Aug for groups max 20. Open for charity. Boundes End, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 0XB. Sun 29 Jun 2014.Tel: 01892 542233 www. boundesendgarden.co.uk

Come to our free talk about...

WALK TEN FOR MARIE CURIE CANCER CARE. Sponsored 10K walk in support of the Marie Curie Nursing Service. Every £20 raised provides one hour of care, to terminally ill patients, in their own homes. Take a twilight wander and soak up the rich atmosphere of Sissinghurst Castle with its beautiful views of the Kentish landscape. The 10k route offers opportunities to explore the woods, farmland and streams surrounding the grand Elizabethan house at sunset. After completing the walk, settle down with your picnic and enjoy the festival-like celebrations with live music, entertainment and spectacular fireworks at 10pm. Walk Ten is Marie Curie’s largest walking event and is open to people of all ages and abilities. Join us and raise money to help provide even more care to terminally ill people and their families. 5.30-10pm Price info: Registration fee Adult (pre-registration) £10 Adult. On the night £20. Sissinghurst Castle, Biddenden Road, Sissinghurst, Kent, TN17 2AB. Thurs 19 June. Tel: 07798 637 922. www. mariecurie.org.uk/en-GB/events/ walking/Walk-Ten-Kent/ ST CLERE - OPEN GARDEN FOR NGS. 4-acre garden full of interest. Formal terraces surrounding C17 mansion (not open), with beautiful views of the Kent countryside. Herbaceous and shrub borders, productive kitchen and herb gardens, lawns and rare trees. Open 2.00pm – 5.00pm. Admission £5, Children £1. Open for charity. St Clere, Kemsing, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 6NL. Sun 15 June www.stclere.com VINTAGE TEA PARTY. Do you love a proper afternoon tea? Then come to our Vintage Tea Party in the beautiful village of Goudhurst in the heart of the Garden of England. Ticket price includes full homemade afternoon tea (selection of finger

sandwiches, choice of cakes, scone with jam & cream and tea/ coffee). 3pm to 5pm Tickets: £10 per person. Tickets in advance from Goudhurst Tennis Club. Email: goudhursttennisclub@ tiscali.co.uk Goudhurst Parish Hall, Balcombes Hill, Goudhurst, Kent, TN17 1AJ. Sat 21 June. Tel: 01622 832733 FOUR ELMS GRAND FETE. The annual fete with traditional stalls, WWII airplane flypast, beer tent, tea tent and food all affordably priced. Good family fun. Bring your dog. Participate in the games and win a prize, be entertained by Applause. Enter the dog show, ride a pony or just sit back and listen to the band. Get lost in our unique fete maze. Wander the stalls and grab a bargain or win a bottle This is the place to get jam, plants, ice creams and have fun. Official opening 14:00. Entry FREE. Large car park at £2 per car. FOUR ELMS near Hever Castle and Chartwell, Kent ,TN8 6NE. Sat 12 July. Tel: 01732 700043 KITSCH AND STITCH VINTAGE AND MAKERS’ SUMMER FAIR. Back at the Vestry Hall in Cranbrook. There will be an eclectic mix of vintage and handmade stalls, selling everything from vintage china to hand embroidered cushions, with lots more delightful goodies to tempt you. Delicious refreshments are homemade by the Friends of the Hospice in the Weald and are sold throughout the day to raise funds for the Hospice. Free parking throughout the town, lovely stalls in a pretty environment, gorgeous things to buy and yummy cakes. Come and have a good day out. 10am to 3pm. Free Entry. The Vestry Hall, Stone Street, Cranbrook, Kent,TN17 3HA. Sat 5 July. Tel: 01580 765601 www.facebook. com/kitschandstitchfair

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

Future security for you ...and your family

S more people own their own property, extended families become commonplace and life expectancy increases, it is important to think about who will look after us in old age and who should benefit from our estate when we die.

Have you thought about your Will? Without a Will the law dictates what happens to your money. If you are married your spouse may not necessarily receive all your estate. If you are in a long term relationship but unmarried your partner will receive nothing. Making a will provides an opportunity not only to make sure you leave your estate in accordance with your wishes but also to consider the impact of inheritance tax and care home fees.

Who will look after you? By making a Lasting Power of Attorney, you decide in advance who will look after your financial affairs if you are unable to do so yourself and avoids expensive legal proceedings. You can also decide who you want to look after your health and welfare when you can’t make decisions yourself.

Find out more Why not attend one of our free talks where we discuss the importance of Wills and LPAs along with Inheritance Tax, Care Home fees and other related issues. Failing to prepare can be very expensive! For information about our next talk, please see full details below.

For more information, please call our Wills and Probate Team on 01689 822554 or visit our website www.thomasdunton.co.uk

Free 30 minute talk Planning for the future We will be discussing and answering questions on: • The problems you may leave if you don’t have a Will • How a Power of Attorney can protect you and your family • Issues concerning long term care and Inheritance Tax Please join us at 11am on Tuesday 17th June, Orpington Library, Walnuts Shopping Centre, Orpington.

• Conveyancing • Wills & Probate • Mediation • Family • Employment • Personal Injury 217–219 High Street, Orpington, Kent BR6 0NZ

01689 822554 • www.thomasdunton.co.uk Email: enquiry@thomasdunton.co.uk

JUNE 2014 9

Contents EDITORS LETTER

WHATS ON

LOCAL LIFE Rochester – Old World Charm

Bexley Village – Busy and Bustling

Knockholt – A Nostalgic Look Back 22 Out and About on the A20

Chilstone at the Hampton Court Flower Show

Royal Ascot 2014 – The Great British Drama 34 FASHION, HEALTH AND BEAUTY

TO UPDATE?

Cosset Cossie Confidence

Dominic Walmsley – Fabulous Jewellery commissions

Wells Clinic - Coolsculpting for a new you

Smells Like Summer

Treatment for your legs with Mr Michael Gaunt

Giving Young People a sporting chance

Bluebird Care – Developing 24 hour live-in care 50

INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICE FABRICS CURTAINS & BLINDS WALLCOVERINGS FURNITURE LIGHTING MIRRORS WOOD FLOORS CARPETS

KITCHEN LIFE SUPPLEMENT

Granite Transformations Ultimate Kitchen make-overs

Put some personality into your Kitchen

INTOTO Kitchens Knowledge and Experience

Stoneham Kitchens 150 year Anniversary

Kitchens are the new living rooms

HOME & GARDENS Bring the Outdoors in

Origin Leisure – Perfecting their swimming pools since 1982 74

11-12 Sundridge Parade Plaistow Lane Sundridge Park Bromley BR1 4DT 020 8466 6313 www.sundridgeinteriors.com 10 JUNE 2014

Sundridge Interiors – Quality and Design

Adam Bailey – The Road to Eden

FOOD & DRINK Regan Maloney’s Restaurant Review

Herberts – A wonderful restaurant in Keston 88

JUNE 2014 11

L O C A L L I F E

Rochester Charles Dickens was captivated by Rochester’s charm and mentions it in many of his novels. On the day before he died Dickens wrote, “A brilliant morning shines on the old city. Its antiquities and ruins are surpassingly beautiful”. WORDS: MAUREEN COLE

ochester is renowned for its castle and cathedral, which attract many visitors each year. Steeped in history and reflecting the grandeur of the past it still manages to possess a modern, cosmopolitan side, with interesting shops and a wide variety of places to eat and drink. The town lies roughly 48km from London and is the lowest bridging point on the River Medway. This, together with its position near the confluence of the Thames and the Medway, has made it of great strategic importance - although no bridge existed until after the Roman Invasion. Rochester Castle was built to guard the river crossing following the Norman Conquest and was given by William the Conqueror to his half-brother Bishop Odo. The first castle is mentioned in the Domesday Book (1086) but none of it exists today. Between 1087 and 1089 the King asked Bishop Gundulf of Rochester, one of William the Conqueror’s finest architects, to build a new stone castle and although the castle has been altered over time, some of his original work still survives. In 1127 Henry 1 granted the Archbishop of Canterbury custody of the castle in perpetuity and the huge central keep was built by William de Corbeil. It is the tallest Norman keep in England and stands 34.5 metres high, with walls up to 3.5 metres thick.

PICTURES: ADAM SWAINE The castle experienced several sieges. The most dramatic was the siege of 1215, when a disagreement over King John’s financial oppression led to unrest. When John chose to disregard the Magna Carta, Civil War broke out and a group of rebel barons seized the castle. The King was determined to win it back and as provisions within the castle dwindled, his men dug a mine beneath the southeast corner of the keep. It is reported that the fat from forty pigs was used and that wooden props supporting the tunnel were set alight. This caused the mine to collapse and brought down the corner of the keep. The ruins are in the guardianship of English Heritage and are protected as a Grade 1 listed building and Scheduled Monument. They are open to the public from 10am -6pm from April to September and 10am-4pm from October to March. Over time Rochester has been occupied by Celts, Jutes and/ or Saxons and Romans. When the Romans arrived in AD 43 they formed a settlement called Durobivea, meaning “the walled town by the bridge” and some of the early defences can still be seen today. The first cathedral in Rochester was founded by King Ethelbert in 604AD. Nothing of the original cathedral remains but its foundations were uncovered in 1889, during work on the present day cathedral. The existing cathedral was begun by Bishop Gandulf and the stone building that forms its basis dates back to the 11th century. Some impressive Norman architecture can be seen in the nave and the crypt and the cathedral boasts one of the finest Romanesque facades in England. The magnificent 14th century Chapter Library Door is one of the oldest doors in Britain. It is

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L O C A L L I F E

now hidden from view but can be seen by special appointment Many pilgrims came to the cathedral during the 13th century to visit the shrine of St William of Perth, a Scottish baker, who was travelling to Canterbury and the Holy Land and was murdered nearby. Miracles were reported to occur at his burial place in the cathedral and pilgrims visiting his shrine brought with them money, which helped the monks re-build the cathedral. So great were the number of pilgrims who came, that over the years, their footsteps wore down the original stone Pilgrim Steps. During the 14th century relationships between the monastery and townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s people were poor, so to avoid being disturbed by the ordinary people of Rochester, the monks would hold their services in the Quire, a more private part of the cathedral. In the 15th century, another church was built for the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s people, who were then only allowed in the cathedral on special occasions such as Easter and Christmas. This church of St Nicholas still stands beside the cathedral but it is now used as offices for staff working for the Diocese.

JUNE JUNE 2014 2014 13 13

L O C A L L I F E

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Rochester, with all its old world charm, is unusual in having both a castle and a cathedral and with its exhibitions, museums, festivals, shops, restaurants and pubs, it is a town in Kent not to be missed.

Rochester’s quaint Victorian High Street has many small independent shops and there are some fine restaurants and pubs to visit, along with historic places of interest. In the High Street is The King’s Head Hotel, a 12th century inn. The Old Corn Exchange, with its large clock jutting out over the pavement, is almost opposite and near to the bridge, the Guildhall Museum, which was built in 1687, is one of the finest civic buildings in Kent. Outside, mounted on the roof, is a beautiful weather vane in the form of an 18th century warship. The Cooper’s Arms, in St Margaret’s Street, is a charming inn, dating back to the 1100’s. Originally a house, its first inhabitants were monks from the nearby St Andrew’s Priory, who were known for the ales and wines they produced. The house became an inn in 1543 and although it has undergone many changes, it retains its old world charm and character. Other interesting buildings in the town include Eastgate House, a grade 1 listed building in the High Street. This

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beautiful Victorian house, dates back to the late 1590’s and was built by Sir Peter Buck, Clerk of the Cheque at Chatham Dockyard. The house has served many different purposes over the years, among them a school, a library and a museum and until 2004 it was home to The Dickens Centre. In December 2012, it was successful in its bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund and it is now undergoing repair and conservation work to provide the community with a multifunctional space and the chance to learn more about Eastgate House. This interesting house appealed to Charles Dickens and features in several of his novels.

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Rochester was a favourite place of the author Charles Dickens and he included it in scenes from many of his books. The special relationship he had with Rochester is celebrated each year in June with the Dickens Festival and in December with the Dickensian Christmas Festival. The colourful Dickens Festival celebrates with people dressed in Victorian costume, street entertainment and parades, competitions, drama and street theatre.

maureenc411@btinternet.com

Q U A T T R O P O R T E

MASTER

SURPRISE

MASERATI QUATTROPORTE DIESEL FROM £69,235 ON THE ROAD Maserati has a long tradition of surprising the automotive world with innovation and unconventional thinking. The introduction of our new state-of-the-art V6 diesel engine in the Quattroporte is just the latest example. This 3.0 V6 unit produces 275 HP and the performance that befits the company’s flagship, whilst clever engineering has managed to reproduce the distinctive and much loved Maserati exhaust note. For more information on the new Maserati Quattroporte Diesel contact 01622 233111

Official fuel consumption figures for the Maserati Quattroporte Diesel in mpg (l/100km): Urban 36.2 (7.8), Extra Urban 54.3 (5.2), Combined 45.6 (6.2). CO2 emissions 163 g/km. Fuel consumption and CO2 figures are based on standard EU tests for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Model shown is a Maserati Quattroporte Diesel at £71,647 On The Road including optional metallic paint at £660, electric sunroof at £1,560 and extended key-less entry at £192. www.maserati.co.uk

MOTORLINE MASERATI BIRCHOLT ROAD, PARKWOOD MAIDSTONE, ME15 9XY Phone: 01622 233111 JUNE 2014 15 E-mail: maserati@motorline.co.uk www.motorline.co.uk/maserati

L O C A L L I F E

Bexley Village With the arrival of the railway Bexley Village attracted many people working in London, who wanted to live in a quieter, greener environment. Today it is frequently referred to as the last village at the edge of London WORDS: MAUREEN COLE

PICTURES: ADAM SWAINE

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Hall Place was sold in 1649, by Sir John’s grandson, to Robert Austin, who quickly set about renovating his new home....

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exley is roughly 13miles from Charing Cross and in 1965 it became part of the newly formed London Borough of Bexley. The village also became known as Old Bexley, in order to distinguish it from Bexley New Town - as Bexleyheath was once known. The village is at the heart of the ancient parish of Bexley, which at one time covered a large area stretching towards Lamorbey in the west, Crayford to the east and Bostall to the north. Bexley grew up as a crossing point on the River Cray during the 5th Century. The village is recorded In the Domesday Book (1086) as Bexlea - meaning, “a settlement in a clearing in the woods” - having a total population of 41 villagers, along with 15 smallholders and 100 pigs and 10 ploughs. The village was valued at £20. Bexley Village may have had a small population in the past but today it is a busy, bustling place and the main road through it is

16 JUNE 2014

frequently congested with traffic. There have been plans for a bypass to be built but so far this has not materialised - a particular shame for the old houses which face the road and have no front gardens. Despite this Bexley manages to retain its village appeal and boasts some 1500 acres of open spaces and parkland. The railway brought with it many changes. Up until its arrival in 1866 the main occupation of the local people was centred on farming and the village was fairly isolated- being connected to other places by poor, unmade roads - which were frequently the haunt of marauding highway men. However, following the coming of the railway, many people looking for a greener, cleaner place to live, chose to move to Bexley. They now had the opportunity to live in a village and travel by train to work in the city. As a result the local population grew. In 1801 it stood at 1,441 inhabitants but by 1891 it had grown to 10,605. The River Cray, which flows through the village, was used

L O C A L L I F E from medieval times, as a source of power for grinding corn. However, the mill which stands in the centre of the village is actually a reproduction. The original mill sadly burned down in 1966 and the building has since been used as a pub and restaurant and more recently as office and apartments. No village is complete without its own parish church. The pretty church of St Mary the Virgin sits on a site, just off the High Street in Manor Road and has been a place of worship for over 800 years. It was probably built on the site of an earlier Saxon church, which was mentioned in the Domesday Book. The existing church was remodelled in Victorian times with some extensions added. The churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unusual spire, which resembles an octagonal cone balanced on top of a truncated pyramid, was also added and gives the church a defining character and appeal. In the High Street is a house with a blue plaque, which commemorates the residence of John Thorpe, a famous 18th century historian, whose wife is buried in the churchyard. It is

reported that following her burial, John had a large boulder placed on her grave to deter grave robbers, who at that time would steal bodies and sell them for medical research. Moving just beyond the village centre, on the Bourne Road and heading towards Crayford, is the beautiful, stately home Hall Place. A distinctive building, sitting beside the River Cray, the house displays two contrasting architectural styles. It is a Grade 1 listed country house which was built in 1537 for John Champneys, a wealthy merchant and a former Lord Mayor of London. At the heart of the house is a splendid central Great Hall, which is crossed at one end by a service wing and at the other by some fine family accommodation. Much of the original house exists today and the outer walls, which are made of flint and rubble masonry, arranged in a chequerboard design, give the house a distinctive quality and appeal. Hall Place is not the sort of house to be passed by unnoticed. The grounds extend to 65 acres and the

JUNE 2014 17

L O C A L L I F E beautifully maintained gardens are a joy to wander around and explore, although the noise from the nearby A2 can be intrusive at times. This has not prevented them from winning The Civic Trusts Green Flag Award every year since they were introduced. Within the gardens are the impressive Queen’s Beast Topiary sculptures, the herbaceous borders and a lovely wildlife meadow. Hall Place was sold in 1649, by Sir John’s grandson, to Robert Austin, who quickly set about renovating his new home and added some of the houses most beautiful features, including the red brick courtyard. Sir Francis Dashwood acquired the house in the 18th century but it was his grandson, Maitland Dashwood who made significant changes – adding a lodge, some fine wood panelling and parquet flooring. In the 19th and 20th century the house was rented out to various tenants and in 1944 the American Army’s Signal Corps moved in and operated an intercept station at the Hall. Radio aerial wires hung over the rooftops and the American forces intercepted Morse signals, mainly from the Luftwaffe, which were then sent to Bletchley Park for decoding. These were certainly exciting times at the Hall! With so many owners and such an interesting history it is not surprising that Hall Place has attracted stories and reported sightings of ghosts. One of them claims that the ghost of a lady dressed in white, wanders the house looking for her lover, who died in a hunting accident. Today the house and gardens are run by Bexley Heritage Trust – who put on exhibitions and events. On February 14th 2014, the Butterfly Jungle Experience and Plant Centre was opened at Hall Place. Here visitors can wander around the glasshouse in a rainforest environment and view beautiful free flying butterflies and exotic flowers. Although Bexley Village cannot compete with Bexleyheath in the number, range and size of its shops, it does have some small, independent shops, which offer specialised goods and services. Pilkington Jewellers Ltd, with its two fully accredited watchmakers, is able to offer servicing for your Rolex watch and treasured clocks, whilst Village Kids offers the biggest names in designer children’s wear and Tennisys is Kent’s premier racket sport retailer. At night Bexley comes to life, with a fine selection of pubs and restaurants. The Bamboo Restaurant, the Maharajah, Mama Carmen, Miller and Carter, Melucci’s and Ferrari’s are all able to offer something special. Bexley is truly a gourmet’s delight and as Bexleyheath has grown in importance it has developed into a fine leisure area. As a village it may not have everything but what it does have, is the best there is.

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18 18 JUNE JUNE2014 2014

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WOOD BURNING SOLUTIONS A business with fire in its belly

ood Burning Solutions opened for business over ten years ago when James O’Connor and his partner Andrea moved to Suffolk. Together they launched a business selling and installing wood burning stoves. Due to their hard work and the right products the business expanded rapidly. To grow even more quickly James joined forces with his long term friend, Stuart Cave and opened another Wood Burning Solutions showroom in Dartford, Kent. The doors opened in August 2013 and during the winter months Stuart was inundated with calls from prospective customers. Both Stuart and James were delighted in the way the new business took off because James had long felt that a wood burning stove company would be successful in Kent. With Stuart managing the business on a day-to-day basis the company has gone from strength to strength in a very short space of time. The Dartford showroom will soon celebrate its first anniversary but Stuart is already in a reflective mood - thinking about the ingredients which have made the last 10 months so successful, he says “One of our main objectives was to provide our customers with really good stoves and an outstanding customer service. These two vital ingredients have been at the core of our Suffolk showroom’s success. We knew that selling good stoves wouldn’t be enough as you are competing on so many levels, but we also knew that we could outshine all of our competitors with the level of service we could offer. Our Suffolk showroom has established a fantastic reputation for its friendly staff and the ease in which we do business. We have followed this model in our Kent business and it has worked.”

20 JUNE 2014

The Dartford showroom is keen to help people understand more about stoves, including the way in which stoves can heat your home and save you money. We also take great pains to point out the difference between the cheap stoves found online which are made in far flung lands and those that are made in the UK or Scandinavia. Stuart adds “The truth is you get what you pay for and this is especially true when you come to the world of stoves. At Wood Burning Solutions we aren’t interested in selling people cheap stoves which we know will eat up loads of fuel with the glass blackening in minutes. We want people to enjoy their stoves because they are burning so little fuel and are excited with the look of the fire - not dirty glass. We are not interested in short term business so we offer a great level of service which means that our clients tell their friends and in turn we build up our business.” Stuart also recommends buying a stove in the Summer because we have loads of special deals available at this time of year. By the beginning of the Summer Wood Burning Solutions Kent will be thinking about the busy “season” ahead and looking forward to what will be another great year of trading. Please call or pop in to see Stuart or his super friendly team, they will make sure that you get a great deal at this time of year. You will definitely be impressed with the service. Wood Burning Solutions Hawley Garden Centre, Hawley Road, Dartford, Kent DA2 7RB Tel: 01322 225725 • www.woodburningsolutions.co.uk

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L O C A L L I F E

STROLL DOWN MEMORY LANE: SEVEN Remote perhaps… but this was home to a wartime spy station in the highest village in Kent. Words: John Ruler

KNOCKHOLT Truly rural..... with a touch of Turner …

Donkey work, possibly on a bread round.

hether its name is derived from Ockholt (alias the ancient manor of Schottes) or a combination of ‘noke or ‘nook’ (corner) with ‘ holt’ (copse), Knockholt is generally regarded as a rather remote, but lovely, old village with some great pubs. Yet, lying at the top of Rushmore Hill off the A21 roundabout at Pratts Bottom, it was once home to a stonking great property built by a City of London silk merchant James Vavasseur (see full story and picture - page 24) And close by to what is now Vavasseur’s Wood is a tell-tale radio mast, a legacy of World War Two when Ivy Farm, situated behind The Three Horseshoes, was linked with Bletchley Park, of German code-breaking fame. Used as a 1942 outstation for intercepting or relaying radio signals, it was described as ‘like having a man in Hitler’s bunker.’ A radar mast stood next door at Chine Farm. With the gates guarded by military police, and the area surrounded by barrage balloons, it also provided a feeling of security against the V-1s, the infamous flying bombs. Workers, mainly civil servants but later joined by members of the ATS (Auxiliary Territorial Service) the women’s branch of the British Army, often lunched at The Three Horseshoes, though food was pretty basic. It was only relatively recently that locals learnt of the farm’s wartime role.

22 JUNE 2014

And that’s just for starters … the excellent website of the Knockholt Society (see Need to Know) reveals legend had it that William Conqueror watered his horse at a dew pond where the famous Knockholt Beeches, though ravaged in the 1987 hurricane, still stand at the highest point in the highest village, at 725ft (221 metres) in Kent. William, too, would have called the place Noccolt, or Nokholt. Though originally centred on St. Katharine’s Church, built in the reign of Henry III, Knockholt Pound developed as the focal point of a village which, running from Scotts Lodge to Rushmore Hill, can be seen as linear. But for local folk it’s all ‘Knockholt’. As with similar rural, rather than urban, villages, its history inevitably revolves around families who lived there over the centuries. Until relatively recently, their livelihood depended largely on agriculture; of the 290 males in the village at the 1851 census, 77 were agricultural workers. There were also 11 farmers, supported by trades such as blacksmiths and saddlers. Of the 1,701 acres in the parish, 1,668 comprised woodlands, pasture and arable land. But from 1820, the number of dwellings increased steadily from 83 to about 240 over the next 90 years, almost a threefold increase. However the past 90 has seen the number dwindling. The village now has around 450, including some 13 listed homes, mostly of local stone and flint.

L O C A L L I F E This still leaves Knockholt as a Green Belt area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with bags of open space and a great network of footpaths. The painting A Lane at Knockholt, Kent (1811-1841) by the painter Henry John Boddington finds many echoes in the village of today. Other famous people who have drawn inspiration from Knockholt includes William Frederick Wells who lived at Ashgrove where his friend, the great post impressionist artist J.M.W.Turner was a frequent visitor. It was here, too, that in October 1806, the idea of the world famous Liber Studiorum, (a series of landscape and seascape compositions published as prints in etching and mezzotint) was suggested to Turner by his host. The series of six

Knockholt Studies can be found in the British Museum. Ashgrove was also home to Dr. Samuel Johnson’s famous ‘Summer House’ for 136 years before its restoration and removal to Kenwood House where, sadly, it burnt down in 1991. Knockholt also sports a long list of local clubs and societies, at a time when many are struggling. These include a thriving horticultural society and allotment association, an amateur theatrical society and bowls, tennis and cricket clubs. It also holds spectacular summer carnival of around a mile long. This year’s is on July 12th. Oh yes, and a giant fireworks display as well … Pretty good for that quiet little village we take for granted as we drive up the hill from Pratts Bottom.

Knockholt Pound in 1931 looks remarkably the same today, save for the old car;

The famous Knockholt Beeches in 1918 before the battering by the October 1987 hurricane.

Above: a horse drawn bus to the Beeches in the 1900s; Above right: a transport station bus driven by Mr Baigent (1887–1915). Many, the author included, will recall the old 431 Green Line bus to Knockholt (right).

A hunt meets outside The Three Horseshoes where five roads meet in the 1900s: an inn may have stood here when the road to Chevening was the road to Rye. The name, derived from horseshoes being lucky, may have come from a neighbouring blacksmith’s.

JUNE 2014 23

L O C A L L I F E

Villagers had bags of space for picnics, like the one pictured (left) in 1875 and walking and still do, along Blueberry Lane, pictured in 1917, and in Vavasseur’s and Blueberry woods. Knockholt Village Tree Society which developed from a group of six people who loved trees have spent many hours working in the woodland in and around the village.

The Harrow, still a cosy bolt-hole now under new management at the top of the old London Road, was said to keep an account of how a former landlord helped in the capture of a highwayman. The pub was reportedly called the Arrow during the late 1800s, a sign of which carried the lines: Charles Collins, liveth here Sells rums, brandy and beer, I made this board a little wider To let you know I sell good cyder’

While regarded as a bit over the top, to put it mildly, Knockholt House, which could be seen for many miles, was said to have some super gardens. Built by a City of London silk merchant James Vavasseur to his own design, it replaced the old Knockholt House. It was completed about 1890 with the tower added in 1892. James’ wife, Helen died in 1902 and James in 1906, leaving their two unmarried daughters in residence. The house eventually fell into decay and after being damaged by a bomb in World War Two, was finally demolished in 1942. All that remains is part of the wall. While most of the farmland associated with the house was sold to the Chevening Estate, the gardens were eventually bought by Knockholt Parish Council and to Knockholt Village Tree Society, The house could easily be seen from the junction of Blueberry Lane and Main Road. Vavasseur’s Wood are the woods on the right hand side of the road.

With this year commemorating the outbreak of World War, in which 182 Knockholt men served, the restored War Memorial at the church marks the 24 who lost their lives. They include Major Alexander Malins Lafone of Court Lodge, who won the Victoria Cross. Major Norman Smithers, who won the Military Cross, lived on to become supervisor of the special constabulary during World War Two. That war, too, took its toll, with 17 Knockholtians dying, including Rev Charles Hobley killed at the rectory during an air raid.

Times and people may change and agriculture is no longer the main source of employment. But Knockholt is no way a ‘commuter’ village, with a plethora of social, sporting, artistic and other societies and organisations. The bi-annual Carnival, pictured in 1951, is, at around a mile long, one of Britain’s biggest. While not against change, locals continue to fight to retain the best and brightest not just from the past but from more modern times – including their battle in 1987, to retain the red box synonymous with Britain.

NEED TO KNOW MORE? See www.knockholtparish.org.uk. ; the history is written by Tony Slinn, Chairman of the Knockholt Society to whom we are indebted in the same way as he is to Sir David Waldron Smithers, late society president, for his book A History of Knockholt in the County of Kent (Dragonfly Press, ISBN 0-9513500-4-8.

24 JUNE 2014

Exciting Time at Babington House School

Lower legal fees: Less money, well spent or false economy?

Josie Norrie Solicitor

his is a really exciting time for Babington House School with the arrival of many new children. Our commitment is to provide an academic and well-rounded education with small class sizes and an individual approach.

We are now accepting boys to the age of 11 in our co-educational Nursery and Preparatory School. The Senior School is academically selective with an Entrance Examination for Year 7 entry.

Alternative business structures are adopting recruitment models which will provide a radically different type of workforce to those associated with traditional legal services. Certain ABSs intend to offer fixed- fee work provided by school leavers, a new and supposedly attractive substitute to qualified lawyers charging at an hourly rate.

Of course, there has long been more than one route into a legal career. Perhaps most concerning are certain organisations’ proposals to recruit overwhelmingly from school leavers, to the exclusion of senior lawyers. The opportunity to be mentored by those who have received an academic and broad-based legal training has historically been central to the successful learning experience of individuals entering the profession.

One counter-argument is that young recruits at ABSs will benefit from access to business minds other than lawyers. We are currently developing a small Sixth Form starting in September Also, apprenticeships offered by some ABSs to school leavers 2014 combining study with work experience. may involve a level of work and responsibility which is not The Summer Holiday Club offers fun and exciting activities for children dissimilar to that experienced by first year trainees. However, 3 to 12 years. the rewards are strikingly different, with apprentice salaries www.babingtonhouse.com 01612_Babington_Chislehurst_Summer_Holiday_Club_Layout 1 04/06/2014 21:4significantly lower. It is questionable as to who will be the true beneficiary of these apprenticeships. Although apprentices would avoid the burden of student debt, they would arguably be carrying out a trainee’s workload at far lower cost to their employers. It is difficult to envisage these conditions attracting the most ambitious of youngsters.

Babington House School Summer Holiday Club at Grange Drive, Chislehurst BR7 5ES

From Monday 7th July until Friday 29th August

There is a public perception that professional services are expensive. The question is: why do people continue to pay an hourly rate for qualified lawyers’ expertise? It remains to be seen whether unqualified practitioners will earn the trust of those who would previously have paid the fees of a more senior lawyer. Following the traditional, graduate route, it takes six years of studying, exams and monitored practical experience to qualify as a solicitor. The path to becoming a chartered legal executive is similarly rigorous. People rarely wish to instruct a lawyer until absolutely necessary. However, it is precisely because legal advice is required in connection with some of life’s most significant events and challenges that paying fees which are commensurate to the relative complexity of each individual case ought to be considered money well spent.

Fun and exciting activities for children from 3 to 12 years Childcare vouchers accepted Discounts for early and block bookings See website for details and to make a booking Visit www.babingtonhouse.com Or contact Mrs Russo on 020 8467 5537 Email: holidayclub@babingtonhouse.com

Naturally, ABSs are diverse entities and there will no more be a uniform approach to recruitment than there will be to practice. What is certain is that the legal profession and the routes into legal practice are undergoing a major overhaul. The public will ultimately decide; will ABSs with teams of unqualified recruits represent equal services for less money or prove in many cases to be a false economy?

For further information or advice relating to these issues please contact Josie Norrie on 01689 887891 or josie.norrie@cwj.co.uk JUNE 2014 25

F O C U S O N

Out and About on the A20 PICTURES: ADAM SWAINE

1 2

1. The River Stour at Godmersham; 2. Charing Village; 3. Chilham Villlage; 4. Wye Village; 5. Church at Charing; 6. St Johns at Bredgar Village; 7. Tea Rooms at Chilham Village. Adam Swaine Photographer www.adamswaine.co.uk email: adamswaine@rocketmail.com mobile: 07798 526 569 26 JUNE 2014

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Dementia Friends

Helping to create dementia friendly communities

eople with dementia don’t just lose their memories; they can also lose their friends. This is because people with dementia can start to behave differently and sometimes those friends might not understand or know how to react. It is for this reason that the Alzheimer’s Society, in conjunction with the government, has set itself the goal of creating one million Dementia Friends who will help people with dementia to live well for longer. Anybody can become a friend. It’s as simple as just understanding a bit more about dementia, which this initiative will help to achieve by providing you with helpful tips and small ideas to aid you in supporting the people you know with dementia and their carers.

A Dementia Friend learns a little bit more about what it's like to live with dementia and then turns that understanding into action - anyone of any age can be a Dementia Friend and every action counts, from helping someone to find the right bus to spreading the word about dementia on social media. Dementia Friends Champion, Jeremy Groeger-Wilson of Orpington solicitors Clarkson Wright & Jakes says “Dementia

Friends can come from all communities, organisations and businesses that are likely to come into contact with people living with dementia.” To achieve this, the initiative will involve many partners. Any organisation can get involved by encouraging staff or volunteers to sign up for Dementia Friends Champions training, so they have one or more Dementia Friends Champion to engage Dementia Friends. If you are interested in becoming a Dementia Friend and joining a national initiative that will help people living with dementia feel included in their communities, then you need to register as a Dementia Friend and go to one of the Friends' information sessions. Details of regular local sessions, such as those hosted by Clarkson Wright & Jakes at 3pm on the second Thursday of each month, can be found at www.dementiafriends.org.uk or cwj.co.uk/seminars. Dementia Friends Champions are trained volunteers who have taken the Dementia Friends Champions' training. Each Friends' information session lasts around one hour. You will learn more about dementia and how you can help to create dementia friendly communities. JUNE 2014 29

L O C A L L I F E

Chilstone at Hampton Court Flower Show

Chilstone's Steve Clark (left) with Jack Dunckley in 2013

30 JUNE 2014

L O C A L L I F E

The 'lush' side of 'Juxtaposition' This year's garden is aimed at retirees.

he Hampton Court Flower Show takes place from July 8-13th this year and Langton Green based Chilstone Garden Ornaments are working with award winning garden designer Jack Dunckley on another fabulous new garden. Last year at the Chelsea flower show, Chilstone worked with Dunckley on his exciting 'Juxtaposition' garden which featured a two-faced garden one side lush and green, the other side stark and arid with an austere beauty. Chilstone provided hand made stonework on that garden (see illustrations) and some high tech sand which caused some interest with the public.

â?&#x203A;

I am fortunate to be able to work with Chilstone again this year and very grateful of their continued support.

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Jack Dunckley

The 'Just retirement' garden is a realisation of the enjoyment and stimulation that can be achieved from a well planned garden. In an era where more and more people are spending many more active years in retirement , the 'Just Retirement' garden promotes the message of investing in your retirement not only financially Jack Dunckley with Kent's Davi

na McColl JUNE 2014 31

L O C A L L I F E but also philosophically, looking at how retirement can be enhanced by lifestyle choices. The plantings and design all reflect this idea and the garden has unique stone windows for a 360 degree vista. The garden is 22m long and the public will be able to walk through this garden, which is unusual in a flower show. A special path has been created by Kent based specialists Addagrip. The garden features a parade of stone windows and path edging that have been handmade especially for the garden. Jack Dunckley at 21 is already an internationally recognised garden designer with considerable awards and media appearances under his belt. He is based in his own 6 acre nursery at Henfield in West Sussex. Flowers Jack with the arid side of the 'Juxtaposition' are of course in his blood as his mother and garden which won a prestigious Silver-gilt grandmother were a plantswoman and florist medal at Chelsea 2013 respectively. Early starts such as Jack's have given rise to a new wave of young inspired This year, Chilstone have once again made elegant stone garden designers as we saw at this year's RHS Chelsea Flower plinths for the top-rated Guruve stand at this year's Chelsea Show. Flower show. Chilstone urns can also be seen at Chelsea Chilstone too are a well known maker of premium garden decorating the Bramblecrest exhibit and 3 Chilstone fountains ornaments at the top end of the market and have made decorated the main pavilion itself. ornaments for international celebrities, institutions, royal houses, In 2013 Chilstone provided stonework for the splendid Silver castles and, of course, the general public. Every year, the company Gilt Showgarden of Jack Dunckley and the firm are hoping for is asked to make bespoke stone features for special gardens in their unique composite stone. more success with Jack at Hampton Court in 2014.

â?&#x203A;

Creating this 'show stopping' garden with Just Retirement is going to be an amazing experience for me. 'Journey Through Retirement' will be a unique 20 x 8 metre garden which visitors will be able to walk through and unusually take in all the vistas around the entire 360 degree circumference.

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Jack Dunckley

The plan for this year's garden 'Just retirement'

32 JUNE 2014

It’s a wrap! Sydenham High girls join Jamie’s live cookery lesson

ydenham High School’s cookery suite was a hive of activity when twelve lucky girls got to cook with Jamie Oliver as part of a world record attempt.

The girls, from years 8 and 9, linked with over 3,000 fellow students around the globe in a live video cookery lesson run by the popular TV chef and food campaigner, organised by the Times Education Supplement. They also became record breakers as part of the world’s biggest simultaneous cookery lesson. The girls first watched Jamie take them through the recipe and then, supervised by cookery teacher Ms Mikkaila McKeever-Willis and Assistant Head Mr Craig Batty, they got chopping, grating and mixing to create their own Rainbow Salsa Wraps. The event was the focus of Food Revolution Day which aims to educate children about making better food choices. “This was a great opportunity for the girls to be part of a unique worldwide event and to build on the cookery skills they will need to help them live healthy lives,” said Headteacher Kathryn Pullen. “We introduced cookery as an enrichment activity in September and it has proved popular from year 7 to our sixth formers. We are looking forward to the major refurbishment of our cookery suite over the Summer and the increased opportunities this will give us to give as many of our students as possible the chance to be inspired to cook”.

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Open Evening & D’ArT Exhibition Wednesday 25 June 2014 6.30pm - 8pm

See our website for Autumn Open events and bookable Taster Days 020 8557 7004 admissions@syd.gdst.net www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net 19 Westwood Hill, London SE26 6BL JUNE 2014 33

EV E N TS E V E N T S

Tuesday 17th to Saturday 21st

JUNE 2014

The Great British Drama of

Royal Ascot 2014 Royal Ascot is one of the iconic summer highlights of the British sporting and social calendar. Five days of world class racing, pageantry, high fashion and fine dining, celebrated through this year’s theme of ‘The Great British Drama’.

he centrepiece of Ascot’s year, Royal Ascot, is arguably the world’s most famous race meeting. First organised in 1711 at the behest of Queen Anne, each day of Royal Ascot traditionally begins with the Royal procession in which the Queen, her family and guests, parade in front of the packed grandstands in their horse-drawn carriages. The Queen has long had a special affinity with the meeting, although her personal success has heightened over the past two years after her horse Estimate won the Queen’s Vase during Royal Ascot 2012 and won the feature race of the entire meeting, the Gold Cup, last year. Royal Ascot attracts some of the best horses from around the globe and promises to be another draw for the world’s best racehorses. Ascot’s Head of Communications and International Racing, Nick Smith said: “Last season’s Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe winner Treve, Europe’s best horse on current rankings looks like lining up in the Prince of Wales’s Stakes while from further afield the likes of No Nay Never for the USA is likely to return after his sensational win in the Norfolk Stakes last year. Hopefully The Queen’s Estimate will be back to repeat her magnificent performance in the Gold Cup last year.” Off the track, the Royal meeting will as ever draw eyes from the international world of fashion. The hats, shoes and dresses at Royal Ascot are as colourful and creative as the jockeys’ silks. Gentlemen in the Royal Enclosure are required to wear black or grey morning dress with a waistcoat and tie and their incredibly smart, attire serves as the perfect foil for the ladies who, within certain guidelines, get a much freer remit for expression. Fine dining has always been an important ingredient of the Royal Ascot experience. The new multi-million pound restaurant On 5 will open for the first time at this year’s Royal Meeting with Michelin starred chef Tom Kerridge hosting events, boasting breathtaking views across the racecourse. The Panoramic Restaurant also has a Michelin starred chef as its host as Atul Kochhar brings a taste of India to proceedings. French gastronomy house

38 MA 2 0 1 4 2014 34Y JUNE

Lenôtre also comes to Royal Ascot for the first time this year, where diners can feast on traditional continental cuisine created from ingredients arriving fresh from Paris every morning in Balmoral, Carriages and Sandringham restaurants. The exquisite Parade Ring restaurant with views overlooking the Parade Ring, exclusive Trackside and Windsor Forest Restaurants with stunning views of Ascot Heath and theatrical new Royal Ascot Village completes Royal Ascot’s Fine Dining portfolio. Royal Academist David Mach will have his latest work ‘Great British Drama’ on display. The work celebrates the breadth of appeal of Royal Ascot and brings together decades of the world’s best racing, pageantry, style and elegance into one stunning piece of art. Charles Barnett, Chief Executive of Ascot Racecourse, said: “This is a captivating snapshot of Royal Ascot past and present, which encapsulates everything that is special about the week. We feel David has captured perfectly the verve and vibrancy of our historic event.” Royal Ascot 2014 will feature 17 Group races, including seven Group Ones, with total prize money across five days in excess of £5.3million. The minimum value of any race at Royal Ascot remains £60,000. A shift in scheduling for the 2014 meeting sees the feature race moved back from the third to the fourth race each day at a Royal Ascot which is looking like having a distinctly International feel. All races throughout the week will be televised live on Channel 4. Tickets to Royal Ascot range from £17-£75 with addition group discounts available. There are three ticket types available; The Royal Enclosure (members only), Grandstand Admission and Silver Ring Admission. There are a range of Fining Dining options at Royal Ascot showcased accordingly to the enclosure they afford guests entry into. Fine Dining starts from £250 per person. To book tickets visit www.ascot.co.uk/royal-ascot-2014 or call 0844 346 3000.

JUNE 2014 35

FA S H I O N

COSSET COSSIE CONFIDENCE

Animal print swimsuit, £16; BHS (www.bhs.co.uk)

othing says ‘holiday’ like a new bikini or swimsuit - or three. With so much swimwear variety, it’s difficult to select just one piece for your suitcase. Narrow down your search using your body shape to paddle through the sea of options. From tropical prints to jewel brights, this season’s trends have been translated

36 JUNE 2014

into swim-friendly options; all you have to do is decide on the most flattering style for optimum pool posing. Time to dive into the sea-son’s hottest swimwear.

BOTTOM MARVELS Pear-shaped figures can employ clever trickery to balance out proportions and boost body confidence.

A common mistake is resorting to boy short bikinis, which can emphasise the area. Instead, opt for full pants that give good rear coverage but have a flattering cut to lengthen your legs to the max. Choose a swimsuit or bikini with a darker colour on the bottom half - the optical illusion will instantly slice off inches. Continued on page 38

FA S H I O N 1.

4. Main PIc (above): Cleo by Panache Blue Lucille nautical plunge tankini top, £36; briefs, £16; available at Swimwear365 (www.swimwear365.co.uk) 1. Boux Avenue Monaco rose bikini top, £28; high-waisted briefs, £20 (www.bouxavenue.com) 2. Damart powermesh figure control swimsuit, £35 (www.damart.co.uk) 3. Red Herring at Debenhams aztec bustier, £18; high-waist bottoms, £14 (www.debenhams.com) 4. Marisota monochrome panel swimsuit, £37 (www.marisota.co.uk) 5. La Redoute striped tankini top, £39; bikini briefs, £25 (www.laredoute.co.uk) 6. Dorothy Perkins stripe 3D ruffle bikini top, £14; briefs, £12 (www.dorothyperkins.com) 7. Evans navy stripe swimdress, £31.60 (www.evans.co.uk)

JUNE 2014 37

FA S H I O N Cosset Cossie ConfidenceContinued from page 37 If you prefer complete coverage, try a sleek skirt attached to your bikini bottoms or swimsuit. It’s retro styling with in-built camouflage, as it skims right over your lumps and bumps.

CURVE CREATORS Athletic or boyish figures can plump for curve-enhancing cuts, ruffles, and prints to create the illusion of a bigger bottom and bust. If you’re looking to boost your chest, try bold prints, horizontal stripes, or cups with cleverly placed ruffles and frills. The same principles apply if you want to exaggerate your bottom. Padded or push-up bikinis will help create a cleavage. Treat the process like a bra fitting, ensuring you’re wearing the right fit with straps in the correct place to maximise your assets and comfort levels. Extra detailing, like tie sides or ribbons on hips, can also give your frame a fullerfigured look.

TUMMY TAMERS Swimsuits now rival bikinis in the sexiness department and many of them offer hidden support that slim you in all the right places.

Get the Look Presenter Susanna Reid ignored the rules about red carpet clashing at the TV Bafta Awards, by wearing a scarlet dress to the event this month. Go glam in her exact Biba Cowl Back Maxi Dress at House of Fraser, available in red or navy, currently reduced to £144 (www. houseoffraser. co.uk).

High-tech layers between the lining and outer fabric will hold in tummy overhang that you want to hide. Ensure that you try on for size, as they may feel snugger than usual, depending on the intensity of the support. If you prefer to show a flash of skin, look to a tankini set or bikini with highwaisted briefs that supports your middle section. Coloured panelling will make your tummy appear instantly leaner. Look for swimwear with black solid panels running down the sides to break up statement prints.

WAIST WHITTLERS The hourglass figure is ‘the’ elusive swimwear shape. If you’re lucky enough to flaunt a Coca-Cola bottle body, accentuate by wearing block colour bikinis or swimwear in jewel brights, to keep your top and bottom half in perfect proportion. If you don’t fit into this category, cheat! Use panelling and streamlined detailing to cinch in your waist. Give your bust that old school Hollywood look by choosing underwired, halterneck styles to give your chest an uplift. If you want to exaggerate the retro styling, try a longline bikini top - it’s the closest thing you’ll get to a corset in swimwear that will give you a posture to be proud of around the pool. 38 JUNE 2014

BUY IT NOW From top to toe. British milliner Stephen Jones has collaborated with FitFlop to create special edition loafers. The Jones is inspired by the designer’s famous Dashing hat and is available in French Navy, Mykonos Blue or Pistachio suede with marshmallow accent, or in classic black leather with gold accent, £135 each, exclusively available online (www.fitflop.co.uk).

FASHION FLASH Grey Matter Forget the white wedding, brides-to-be are going grey. eBay has observed a 260% surge in sales of grey wedding dresses since Kim Kardashian’s recent appearance on the cover of US Vogue alongside fiance Kanye West. T he chosen design for Kim’s actual wedding dress is still under wraps, but the Lanvin grey gown she modelled on the fashion bible’s April cover is sending hearts racing. Muted greys, pastel blues and girlish greens all proved popular at the London Bridal Show in April, prompting future brides to reconsider the conventional white dress.

Kelly Couture The face of breakfast television has become the face of JD Williams. Lorraine Kelly has signed up as brand ambassador for the shopping retailer. Expect to see her modelling in JD Williams’ catalogue and online from July. And f rom next spring, the presenter marks her first foray into fashion design with the launch of her very own collection. “Designing a fashion collection has always been a dream of mine,” she says. “It’s more than just creating clothes though, I want to help women realise that they don’t have to give up on fashion once they hit 50; these days, age should not be a barrier to looking terrific.”

“A Rose for a Rose” Dominic’s diamond stacking Rose rings in 18ct red (£1,850), white (£1,920) & yellow (£1,850) gold, each ring set with 0.5ct of diamonds

3 The Square  Riverhead 01732 779 555

www.dominicwalmsley.com

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Albert Bridge engagement ring This latest creation by Dominic was recently used by his client to propose to his girlfriend on the Albert Bridge in London. The design was inspired by the bridge, lit up at night... she said yes!

Recent commissions at Dominic Walmsley

Name pendant We had a request for a necklace design that incorporated three family names and produced this lovely pendant featuring three interlocking hoops each of which were hand engraved. She was delighted with the finished design.

When we asked Dominic Walmsley to give us an insight into the kind of jewellery designs that are commissioned at his Riverhead shop we were surprised and fascinated by the personal nature of them. Here we have featured a selection of pieces, recently made, in their own workshop by Dominic and his team. Dominic Walmsley Jewellery 3 The Square, Riverhead 01732 779555 www. dominicwalmsley.com

These solid silver wine coasters were commissioned as Christening gifts for two special little boys. Each has their monogram in the centre and their dates of birth, hand engraved in roman numerals, around the outside. “More use than a rattle!”

Platinum scorpion

18ct Red gold infinity ring We love red gold, so are thrilled by its increased popularity. Dominic recently had the opportunity to make his Infinity ring in red gold with pave set diamonds. Beautiful!

Silver wine coasters

One of our more unusual requests was this 18ct white gold & diamond scorpion lapel pin. It looked fabulous.

9ct Yellow gold bangle Commissioned for an important birthday, Dominic recently made a solid 9ct yellow gold version of his popular silver “Heavy Hammered” bangle.

Blue topaz cufflinks These vibrant blue topaz stones were purchased on an overseas business trip by our client. Dominic transformed them into these dapper silver cufflinks.

40 JUNE 2014

Made in London

Thumb Arthritis

rthritis of the base of the thumb is extremely common, but tends to affect mainly women in their fifties. It can be extremely debilitating as the thumb accounts for around 40% of the hand’s overall function. Simple treatments have always consisted of wearing splints and injections of cortisone into the joints. However, once these fail, surgery has been required. A square bone at the base of the thumb with joints on three sides is called the trapezium. The simplest operation has been to remove this bone completely, called a “trapeziectomy”, which works well to relieve pain and maintain movement, but has always resulted in some weakness due to the gap left behind after the bone’s removal, which collapses upon gripping with the thumb.

H E A LT H B E A U T Y Mr Ali Shafighian

higher functional demands and only one of the three joints affected by arthritis where it is not necessary to remove the whole trapezium. Whilst they may dislocate or wear out just like hip replacements, they can easily be removed and converted to a trapeziectomy if all else fails. The original operation is therefore still available if absolutely needed. The latest studies show that, if there are no short term complications with these implants, then they are potentially capable of lasting many years and allow for good pain relief, good motion and, most importantly, good preservation of grip strength. If you are concerned that you or a family member may have a problem with thumb arthritis you may wish to seek advice from Mr Ali Shafighian, Orthopaedic Consultant based at North Downs Hospital. For more information call 08436 585307 or enquire online www.northdownshospital. co.uk

Lots of different operations have been tried to fill this gap, but the latest materials which behave like ceramic and are shaped like the bone at the base of the thumb show the greatest promise. They are particularly useful in younger patients with

Superb orthopaedic care, delivered with compassion and respect 95% of our patients give us the thumbs up

We can help get you moving again… quickly!

For more information call:

08436 585 307 www.northdownshospital.co.uk 4 6

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We are here to listen to you, answer your questions, offer a diagnosis and discuss your treatment options in a friendly and caring environwent

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Our orthopaedic consultants and physiotherapists help patients of all ages and activity levels

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Superb facilities with continued investment in modern technology

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6 D P JUNE 2014 41

H E A LT H B E A U T Y

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B E A U T Y

SMELLS LIKE Summer

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B E A U T Y

e’re on the brink of heatwave, ice cream and swimming pool season. Time to celebrate with a brand new signature scent for summer.

yellow mandarin and pink pepper that’s fresher than a seaside breeze, £49.50 for 75ml EDT (The Perfume Shop).

Formulations for summer scents are lighter and fresher, so you don’t get that oppressive feeling on your skin once temperatures start soaring.

SUN WORSHIPPER

Not only do they smell amazing, the evocative packaging looks like it belongs in a luxury suitcase alongside your bikinis and kaftans. With scents this good, you’ll be praying for an Indian summer so you can carry on spritzing....

SURF’S UP Make like you’re riding waves in Maui wearing Carolina Herrera’s limited edition 212 Surf. The eau de toilette

Celebrate the sunshine season with Ghost’s new Eclipse scent. The fruityfloral eau de toilette combines fruity top notes with warm base notes of amber and musk, while the deep golden red and orange bottle resembles a heady sunset, from £24 for 30ml EDT (Superdrug).

FEELING FRUITY Embrace vacation mode with Miller Harris’ limited edition Summer Collection. Three citrus fragrances are available in collectable bottles: Citron Citron, Tangerine Vert and Le Petit Grain, £65 each for 50ml EDP, available June (www.millerharris.com).

DIVE IN incorporates an aquatic accord, alongside sensual woody notes and fresh musky tones, £34.99 for 60ml EDT (The Perfume Shop).

Water babies will lap up the aquatic notes in Davidoff Cool Water’s limited edition Coral Reef. Notes of melon are mixed with a

POOL POSING Kick back poolside via Issey Miyake’s L’Eau D’Issey Summer bottle featuring a pool mosaic of starfish and seahorses. The top notes of grapefruit, passion fruit and guava make for an explosively refreshing summer spritz, £40 for 100ml EDT (House of Fraser).

BEACH BABE Wear Bobbi Brown’s bestselling Beach fragrance on holiday and evoke memories of sun, sea and sand once you’re home. The eau de parfum is an intoxicating blend of sand jasmine, sea spray, and mandarin, £48 for 50ml EDP (www.bobbibrown.co.uk).

OCEAN GODDESS Make a splash with Jean Paul Gaultier Classique Limited Summer Edition. Like a marine ballet, the collector bottle and metal can holder reflect the undersea world with a decorative siren, starfish and shell, £40 for 125ml EDT (House of Fraser).

SEASIDE CHIC Who doesn’t want a fragrance box that resembles a beach deckchair? Vivienne Westwood’s limited edition Sunny Alice is just as reminiscent of summer with zingy top notes of

fresh bouquet of lily of the valley for an invigorating eau de toilette, £35 for 100ml EDT (Debenhams).

SUMMER, BOTTLED You can’t mess with a classic - unless it’s a sunshine-friendly version of Calvin Klein’s ck one. The Summer edition opens with notes of frozen lime, grapefruit and juicy melon for the perfect scent accompaniment to sorbet slurping, £32 for 100ml EDT (Boots).

JUNE 2014 45

& TREATMENT FOR VARICOSE VEINS

he alt h b eau ty

LEADING CONSULTANT VASCULAR SURGEON MICHAEL GAUNT OPENS A NEW PRACTICE AT THE LONDON CLINIC IN HARLEY STREET AND DISCUSSES THE TREATMENT OF VARICOSE AND THREAD VEINS… WHAT ARE VARICOSE VEINS? Varicose veins are a common problem affecting at least 20% of the adult population in the UK. ey occur when small valves inside the veins stop functioning correctly. Rather than blood flowing effortlessly back towards the heart, the blood stagnates within the veins causing aching,

Michael Gaunt tiredness and discomfort. At first, problem veins may not be visible but symptoms occur. Sometimes patches of blue thread veins may be the earliest signs of an underlying problem. Eventually, the abnormal veins may become swollen, enlarged and varicose. is condition can be embarrassing and painful. Varicose veins are usually blue or dark purple in colour and may also be lumpy or twisted in appearance. While any vein can be affected, varicose veins most commonly develop in the legs and feet – predominantly because standing and walking can put pressure on the veins in the lower body. WHY SHOULD I CONSIDER HAVING THEM TREATED? In the developing stages, varicose veins and thread veins may be primarily a cosmetic problem. However, if ignored, the condition can deteriorate and a variety of complications can occur such as leg swelling, pigmentation of the skin around the ankles and ulcers. Occasionally, veins can burst causing bleeding, or the blood within the veins can clot leading to the painful condition of phlebitis or even deep vein thrombosis. People who use air travel for work or holidays may be at increased risk particularly if those flights are long haul. IS THIS TREATMENT JUST FOR WOMEN? Certainly not, it can affect men just as much as it can affect women. Men tend to cover their legs up more, so the problem may be hidden away and ignored, with some men only seeking treatment when their veins become swollen and complications start to occur. It is important to target varicose veins before they become a problem, as without medical treatment some conditions may worsen. WHAT IS INVOLVED IN TREATMENT AND IS IT PAINFUL? Fortunately, modern, minimally invasive treatments can often be 3 8 46 D E JUNE CEMB ER2013 2014

performed under local anaesthetic as a walk-in, walk-out procedure. is leaves the patient with minimal postoperative pain with practically immediate return to normal activity. Michael Gaunt is a leading venous expert and has extensive knowledge of these procedures, having treated over 4,000 patients with the Endovenous Laser and ClariVein techniques. Both techniques are associated with considerably less pain, bruising and scarring than traditional stripping techniques. IS IT PERMANENT? Most modern techniques for treating varicose veins are associated with very good, long-term results. Patients are benefiting more and more from the advances in the treatments and the new procedures that are now available. HOW CAN I GET MY THREAD VEINS TREATED? Not all visible veins in the legs are varicose veins. Small veins underneath the skin, known as thread veins, spider veins or reticular veins, may become prominent due to a variety of different reasons. ey can cause symptoms of discomfort, itching and irritation as well as being unsightly. Often the appearance of thread veins is due to the effect of daily wear and tear on delicate skin and local treatments are effective. However, sometimes thread veins are an indication of underlying varicose veins which may not be visible on examination. Treatment of the thread veins will not be successful unless the underlying problem - for example the varicose veins - has been corrected first. erefore, a thorough venous assessment is necessary before initiating any local treatment for thread veins. is could include injection microsclerotherapy or VeinWave therapy. Once underlying varicose veins have been treated or excluded, local treatment of the thread veins is much more likely to be successful. VeinWave therapy is also very effective at removing unsightly facial red veins affecting the nose and cheeks. ONCE I’VE DECIDED TO HAVE TREATMENT, WHAT IS THE NEXT STEP? Make an appointment where we can assess your condition and discuss potential treatment and steps forward. ese no obligation consultations are offered at e London Clinic in Harley Street. If you would like to book a mini-consultation, including an ultrasound scan, for just £95, or if you would like to find out more about your treatment options call 01223 305858 or visit www.michaelgaunt.com ■

Mr Michael Gaunt Consultant Vascular Surgeon Varicose and Thread Veins

BREEZE INTO SUMMER WITH NEW LEGS AND A NEW YOU

Did your legs let you down last summer because of varicose veins or thread veins? Why not do something about them so that you can look forward to this summer with confidence? Consultant vascular surgeon Michael Gaunt has opened a new Harley Street practice specialising in varicose and thread veins. He is a leading venous expert, experienced in treating varicose veins with both the Endovenous Laser and ClariVein techniques. Varicose veins are often considered a cosmetic condition but if neglected can result in complications. Minimally invasive local anaesthetic procedures can be used to treat varicose veins on a walk in, walk out basis. If you would like to book a mini-consultation, including an ultrasound scan, for just ÂŁ95 or if you would like to find out more about your treatment options call 01223 305858 or visit www.michaelgaunt.com

The London Clinic Harley Street

Spire Norwich Norfolk

BMI Bury St Edmunds Suffolk

Spire Lea & Nuffield Health Cambridge JUNE 2014 47

Giving young people a sporting chance…..

he Lady Taverners understand the massive potential sport has to encourage boys and girls of all abilities to get out, keep fit and be part of a team. By donating sports equipment, specially made wheelchairs, hoists for swimming pools, sensory equipment and putting on fun days, sport and recreation can be made accessible to everyone.

businesswoman in Kent, she is also a former Team GB International Swimmer, World European and Commonwealth Games swimmer. Angela runs her own Swim School across many areas in North Kent so is very well respected in the sporting industry locally. There will be crash courses over the forthcoming school holidays where children and adults can learn to swim – the gift of swimming will last you a lifetime. For more information on the history and beliefs of the Lady Taverners, please visit www.lordstaverners.org/lady-taverners

There is no doubt that without the original Honorary Lady Taverners – and Baroness Thatcher – the Lady Taverners as such would not have come into being and been the success they are today. Now over 1,000 strong, the Lady Taverners continue to draw members from the sporting, showbiz and corporate worlds. Over the past quarter of a century funds have been raised in 25 regions around the country, to help enhance the lives of young people with special needs and from disadvantaged backgrounds. The aim is to give as many young people as possible a ‘sporting chance’ in life. Last year alone, the Taverners contributed £393,000 worth of equipment in the South East of England region. The equipment included cricket bags, non-turf pitch grants, cricket coaching and competitions, specially adapted minibuses, sports wheelchairs and sports development. Angela Wilson (pictured) is proud to be a Lady Taverner. Not only is Angela an extremely successful and dedicated

48 JUNE 2014

For more information on Angela’s Swim School, please visit www.angelasswimschool.co.uk

Chislehurst Laser Liposculpt E

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Laser Lipolysis is a new, safe form of laser liposuction that can really change your body almost instantly. Liposculpt uses a mild low laser treatment to reduce your body’s fat. It is not a cosmetic surgery. It’s non- invasive: there are no needles or injections.

The Most Revolutionary Non-invasive Fat Busting Inch Loss System Ever Made Laser Lipolysis is a new, safe form of laser liposculpture that can really change your body, almost instantly.

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Family at crisis point? Look no further, we can help and advise on all matters in connection with: • Divorce • Domestic abuse • Children • Financial arrangements following break up. With flexible payment plans available, our dedicated team of male and female Family Solicitors will work closely with you to find the best solution for your needs. We can also help with Residential Property, Medical Negligence, Personal Injury, Wills, Trusts, Probate, Commercial Matters, Debt Recovery and Employment.

Bluebird Care

develops ‘24 hr Live-in Care’ offering! B

luebird Care’s offices in Bromley and Kent are challenging conventional thinking about later life care with their new 24/7 Live-in Care service.

The offices have firmly established themselves in the area by providing high quality private day care visits and becoming a preferred service for over a 1,000 local families throughout the area. Bluebird Care offers a comprehensive Live-in Care service, providing Personal Assistants to live round the clock in the homes of vulnerable customers - permitting an extended period of living at home. Christine Robinson of Bluebird Care, who co-ordinates the service says: “Live in Care provides a bridge between the time

when independent living can be achieved with assistance from visiting carers and the time when residential care is unavoidable.” It used to be the case that once day care became insufficient the only alternative was residential care. With all the bad publicity that everyone sees, this is sometimes not a popular choice for customers. The Bluebird Care Live-in Care service provides a really suitable alternative for many people who would previously have been reluctant residential home dwellers. Christine says: “Personal Assistants are recruited locally from the South East of the UK and we do criminal record checks on all our new Personal Assistants and take professional references, so we know who we’re taking on. We provide them with thorough training in the workplace and we then visit them frequently during their assignments to make sure customers are happy and that the service is running smoothly.” The service benefits from having a back-up facility with the wider Bluebird Care network (which has more than 170 offices UK wide) so that in the event that a Personal Assistant has to be withdrawn for any reason (say because of illness, or to deal with a crisis in their own families) there will be access to a reliable source of good substitutes at short notice, if necessary. “The round the clock service has proved to be popular with customers. We have had several customers of our day visit service who have trialled Live-in Care as an alternative to residential care and have made the trial permanent” said Christine. The costs are similar but the advantages of “staying home” and maintaining local social networks can make Live-in care an attractive option. The presence of the local Bluebird Care

50 JUNE 2014

office is a key element to the appeal of the service. Our local offices provide the staff for the supervision process and also the back office resources necessary to comply with employment regulation. “The Taxman” makes it clear that round the clock Personal Assistants cannot be self-employed. They are either the employee of an agency, or the employee of the person receiving the care. But vulnerable customers rarely want the hassle of being employers, and nor do they want to run the risks of personal accident claims or unpaid taxes - possible if things aren’t done properly. If Bluebird Care manage the service then nobody needs to lose sleep about all that! With places in top quality residential care in short supply, many families are currently thinking hard about how their senior members can be helped to remain in their homes – which is what most of them want. It seems that Bluebird Care may have some of the answers! Christine Robinson can be reached at christinerobinson@bluebirdcare.co.uk or please feel free to call your local office for more information: Bromley 0208 315 0236 bromley@bluebirdcare.co.uk

Dear Debbie

Sevenoaks 01732 471 541 sevenoaks@bluebirdcare.co.uk

Tunbridge Wells 01732 808 947 tunbridgewells@bluebirdcare.co.uk

‘FROM LIVING IN A CARE HOME BACK TO LIVING IN HER OWN HOME!’ Debbie Moulton, Care Ma

Joan has lived in her own home since she was 14. She has always been independent and likes her routine. A few years ago, Joan suffered some ill health and was admitted to hospital. When it came to discharge, Joan was told that she needed help and so she went into various Nursing Homes before she decided she wanted to move back home….

Call our professional team in

Sevenoaks 01732 471 541 sevenoaks@bluebirdcare.co.uk Joan says, “The people in these homes had

dementia and so ‘I didn’t fit in’. I was having to wait for people to help me with my personal care. I had to eat the food they cooked and no one really had the time to keep me company. I really wanted to come home! I’m so used to my own home because I know where everything is and can easily get to what I need. I’ve always loved reading, writing and needle work but now my hands hurt”.

“My Social Service Case Manager provided me with a list of companies for me to choose from if I wanted ‘Care at Home’. I interviewed with three different companies and settled with Bluebird Care as they were close to home and seemed to be the friendliest. I met with Graz in my own home and she was very pleasant and efficient and she put the service into place very quickly. I’ve had carers from different backgrounds and of different ages. “I don’t think caring for someone is easy. I don’t think I’d stay with an old woman! (Laughs). We’ve

BlueBird Care, offers he

Dear Debbie

Can you explain why some people are gi help them with care costs and others ha all themselves? it doesn’t seem very fair oaP’s after all. Yours sincerely, Claire Chester

Dear Claire

adjusted very quickly to each other and now I know them, I like having the carers in my the own reason home”. is that social Care is consider

from which is covered by th “My carers know my routine andHealth I find itCare, beneficial having live-in carers. You have the upper hand in your own charge. “Fai universally available without home and I’m still independent. I now get 1-2-1 care and difficult concept in social Care! at presen everyone looks after my needs. At this stage in my life that’s very important to me.”more than £23,250 in savings or capital,

for your own social Care. if your savings level, you may qualify for some assistanc JUNE 2014 51 authority - which will provide guidance. even if you have to pay for your own so

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KITCHEN LIFE THE QUALITY KITCHEN GUIDE • JUNE 2014

Give your Kitchen Some Personality Beautiful Bespoke Kitchens Kitchens are the new Living Rooms Exquisite Design and Style

Kitchen by Stoneham – Kitchens

LOCAL KITCHEN SPECIALISTS CREATIVE INTERIOR DESIGN – Beckenham 0208 663 3393

LA BELLE CUISINE – Bexley 01322 555353

GRANITE TRANSFORMATIONS – 0208 308 9286

NEPTUNE DESIGN CENTRE – Tonbridge – 01732 351866

IN – TOTO – Tunbridge Wells 01892 522577 KITCHEN DESIGN of SEVENOAKS – 01732 741100 KIT STONE – Tunbridge Wells 01892 522321 KREIDER – Tunbridge Wells 01892 619721

STONEHAM KITCHENS – Sidcup 0208 300 8181 THE KITCHEN DOCTOR – Pratts Bottom 01689 850000 WHARFSIDE – 0207 760 7560 JUNE 2014 53

KITCHEN LIFE

Instant Transformation

erving customer in Kent & South East London is Granite Transformations a owner operated company offering the ultimate in Kitchen Makeover solutions.

The multi award winning company is celebrating its 11th year of business, with its unique offering of granite, quartz and glass worktops that fit directly over your existing kitchen surface. With our exclusive 6.5mmm engineered stone fitting is achieved in just one day and often includes the upgrade of appliances such as sinks, taps and ovens at the same time and offered at trade pricing. In addition, we offer a complete kitchen door replacement service from stripping back to the bare carcass and changing doors, panels, cornice & pelmets to give you that truly new kitchen look for a fraction of the cost of a new kitchen and without the mess and demolition. With many styles of new and contemporary doors and over thirty colours to choose for the design possibilities are endless and all fitted by our own long serving professional fitting staff. Every item is made bespoke to your exact requirements and 54 JUNE 2014

all the worktops are manufactured in our head office in Tunbridge Wells, Kent As members of Checkatrade we also boast an impressive 700+ reputation reports posted on line with an average score of 9.9 for its remarkable service and attention to detail to provide the customer with a swift and hassle free service with stunning results. To see the very latest on what our customers are saying about us visit: www. checkatrade.com/granitetransformationstunbridgewells We have showrooms in Tunbridge Wells, Sidcup and Polhill Garden Centre, Sevenoaks where you can see our product and speak to one of our staff to discuss your requirements. We offer free in home consultations with one of our designers to show you exactly how we can transform your kitchen to suit your desired style and budget. Alternatively, visit our website at www.granitetransformations. co.uk to see how our product and service can help you or simply call 01892 517385 for more information or to book an appointment.

Call now

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Showrooms open: Mon-Fri 9.00-4.30pm Sat 9.00-4.00pm Tunbridge Wells: Unit 5, Tunbridge Wells Trade Park, Longfield Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3QF Sevenoaks: Polhill Garden Centre, London Rd, Badgers Mount, Sevenoaks Kent TN14 7AD Sidcup: 5 Sidcup High Street, Sidcup, Kent DA14 6EN Visit w w w.granitetransformations.co.uk /tunwells JUNE 2014 55

KITCHEN LIFE

Put some PERSONALITY into your kitchen

f you want to make a home buyer’s eyes light up as they enter your property, you’ll present them with something sleek, glossy, and with curves in all the right places. Naturally, we’re talking about the allure of a stylish kitchen, which has re-emerged as a key factor in selling a property. Phil Spencer from Location, Location, Location advises “Branded kitchens go in and out of fashion, so be careful what you choose. You don’t want buyers dating your kitchen by the colour or style of the doors, so opt for classic designs and easy-on-the-eye colours.”

Phil Spencer

And, as the fashion is for a kitchen to be the multifunctional ‘heart of the home’, he believes it doesn’t make sense to stint on appliances, worktops and tiles. He says a great kitchen can add around 5% to the value of a property and a good kitchen does sell a house faster. Estate agents say that women buyers put the kitchen at the top of the property wish list. But getting the layout right is crucial, so concentrate on putting appliances in the right place and having properly planned storage space.

ENTERTAINING? Kitchens are now as popular as dining and entertaining areas, and Kelly Hoppen, the renowned home designer has devised her own streamlined recipe for creating space, and the kitchen plays a major role in the process. “It’s definitely the theatre at the heart of my home,” she says. “To cook and entertain at home is now cool and I have a fireplace up on the wall like a painting, which is a focal point, and cosy in winter. “As I’m always hosting dinners and love having guests drinking and chatting while I cook, I wanted this to be an open and alluring space for friends to relax. “The island bar is where everyone gravitates - it’s not only a ‘chill and chat’ zone, it’s a place to work, read and have breakfast and so upholstered comfortable chairs are an essential. Maximising space with an island bar on doublesided central units, using reflective surfaces such as glossy lacquer or silky polished plaster and employing the colour taupe - a perfect neutral which creates an atmosphere of harmony and calm. We have checked out kitchen trends so you can choose a kitchen to suit your personal taste and practical needs.

SHINY BRIGHT Glossy, lacquer finishes are in vogue for homes, and a strong trend for kitchens. Small wonder, as this effect works brilliantly by helping to bounce light around, and can even make standard units look glamorous. One of the latest finishes for cabinets are high gloss veneers that give a rustic look with a modern edge. High gloss finish kitchens are beautiful and always deliver real impact in the home. Pure white and High Gloss White is a stunning, their streamlined appearance can be enhanced by being handleless.

MONOCHROME Despite the emergence of more colour in the home, black and white still remains a chic combination that’s unlikely to date. Black and white is a classic and the most popular choice of many buyers. The advantage is that it works in either a modern or more traditional setting. The most daring looks now are all white or all black kitchens, with striking metallics integrated.

HIGH GLOSS Colour never fails to make an impact, and there’s a kaleidoscope of shades on offer as kitchen companies embrace this trend. Many traditionalists still favour a stained wood finish, this year the red high-gloss kitchen continues to be a leading choice for those are looking for a modern space.

FLEXIBILITY Kelly Hoppen

SOFT CURVES Hard-edge industrialstyle kitchens initially made popular by TV celebrity chefs are now waning, and a more family friendly 56 JUNE 2014

look with softer, curved outlines is now appealing. The days of just buying a total look ‘off the shelf’ is gone. People are looking to customise their kitchens and make them as individual as they can. Curves are most certainly back in style and this versatile range allows them the freedom to do that. Accent doors come in a selection of effects from fuchsia to aubergine or wood finishes like zebrano. Glass splashbacks, and different textures from glossy lacquer to matt wood are other options.

Thrifty buyers are now comfortable with a kitchen that doesn’t shriek ‘off the peg’ style and has a non-matching or even freestanding look. There’s far less formality in the home than ever before and this is reflected in the trend towards freestanding kitchens. These offer a great deal of flexibility and can be configured in different ways to accommodate the changing needs of the family.

Dreams that take shape At Kitchen Design of Sevenoaks we have over 34 years of experience in designing both contemporary and traditional kitchens. Choose from innovative features and inspiring technology to make your kitchen dream come true.

Showroom Opening Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9.00-5.00 Saturday 9.00-3.00 Closed Wednesday and Sunday 118 London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1BA Email: info@kdofsevenoaks.com www.kdofsevenoaks.com

01732 741100

JUNE 2014 57

KITCHEN LIFE

IN-TOTO KITCHENS â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

Knowledge and Experience

n-toto Kitchens of Tunbridge Wells is part of one of the most established fitted kitchen businesses in the United Kingdom and with its stunning showroom it has secured a reputation for designing and installing beautiful kitchens across Kent and beyond. The team of specialists at In-toto Tunbridge Wells, are there to help you along every step of the way towards your new kitchen. Their aim is to help get every job right, first time. The In-toto designers, Mark Holmes and Tim Gillson between them have been designing kitchens for over 25 years and have the knowledge and experience to manage your project seamlessly from concept to

completion. The team is completed by Fay, who brings a wealth of interior design experience to the operation. No two projects or homes are identical and the same can be said for kitchen designers. With a wealth of project management experience and a commitment to their customers, Mark and Tim have an exemplary track record of working hand in hand with architects and specifiers applying a passion for sound, ergonomic design on everything from self-build projects to extensions and refits. Trained to offer expert advice on a wide range of appliances including Miele, Seimens, AEG, In-toto Kitchens Tunbridge Wells is also a NEFF masterpartner. They also offer worktop only support, and work with the likes of Silestone, Corian, Laminate and other surfaces. The In-toto proposition is unique. They benefit from being part of a national brand representing a nationwide franchise of 45 high street stores and are proud to offer KBSA membership. All this is blended with the knowledge that In-toto has been established in the UK for over 30 years and they can offer an attention to detail possible only from experienced business owners. With fully fitted kitchens starting at ÂŁ10,000, In-toto Kitchens Tunbridge Wells is a competitive supplier. They offer full project management, from concept to completion, and can provide professional installation teams and qualified engineers for your kitchen installation. Please call in to our showroom at 65 Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells to view our range of display kitchens, or make an appointment to discuss your kitchen requirements on 01892 522577.

65 Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells

01892 522577 www.intoto.co.uk 58 58 JUNE JUNE 2014 2014

65 Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2UY Tel: 01892 522577 • Email: tunbridgewells@intoto.co.uk • Web: www.intoto.co.uk JUNE 2014 59

KITCHEN LIFE

Designs for the future draw on a pioneering past JOHN RULER taps in on 150 years of family craftsmanship from wagon wheels to kitchens

t may not be a giant on the global stage, but Stoneham Kitchens of Sidcup can pack a powerful punch when it comes to contemporary design.

For this, in the words of managing director Adrian Stoneham, is ‘no crusty old company, but one constantly reinventing itself‘ since its formation in 1864 as a family wood turning business alongside the Thames. Adrian, fresh from moulding 150 years of British manufacturing into their dramatic three-tier island stand at May’s Grand Designs Live Exhibition at London’s Excel, has little doubt that its rich heritage has paid off handsomely.

This included not just show stopper kitchen units, complete with cutting edge shapes and technical wizardry, but a giant five metre timeline with a plot which reads more like novel. Each era carries a selection from an enviable stock of old prints which, used with others related to major world events of the time, speak volumes. Much of the background has been gleaned by the current chairman, Ed Stoneham, aged 85, whose mind, still as sharp as a tack, contains vivid memories of his early boyhood. In true Stoneham tradition, he began with the firm as a ‘boy’, and still pops into work for a four hour day, four days a week. He is often in the office by 7.15am

The early years …

1864: William Hone Stoneham(left) began a wood-turning business at Deptford Creek, using freshly imported timber from worldwide sources. His workshop was the basement in the family’s home. Jobs included rungs for ladders, mangle rollers and staircase balustrades, along with wooden wheelbarrow hubs for costermongers. In 1884 the business transferred to Finch Street in Deptford (pictured right).

60 JUNE 2014

KITCHEN LIFE

World War One

What information there is shows most of the workforce, certainly the men, joining up for the Great War. ‘It was more a scarcity of manpower,’ said Adrian. ‘The company would have been a lot smaller, anyway, and there were not the blockades of the second world war.’ The company was, however, involved with wheels for the numerous horses and carts which served in the battlefields,

Into the ‘twenties

By 1926 E.G Stoneham & Sons Empire Works, as it became known, converted old cowsheds into a factory in Watson Street, their third Deptford site. Machinery was powered by gas engines and shaft drives and pulleys. Company accounts for 1927 show the purchase of one gas engine for £143 and two company bicycles at £3 and £6 respectively.

World War Two

With restrictions on furniture–making, Stoneham pitched into producing streamlined balsa wood noses for the Mosquito, the fast twin–engined warrior of Bomber Command. Gas rattles, later to appear at football matches, as well as ammunition boxes also formed part of its war effort (see right). So did producing scale replica models of Spitfires and Wellington bombers for National Savings Weeks. Early in the war Ed Stoneham was evacuated to his uncle’s farm in Burwash, East Sussex, later returning to live at home in Chelsfield where he looked after the livestock while his parents ran the Deptford business. And it was this, rather than farming - I missed out on girl friends and all that sort of thing’ – that saw him follow in the family footsteps, starting his five year apprenticeship working on the shop floor. This was not a new experience: pre-war he had swept the machine room floor for the sheer excitement of being in the factory. After National Service in RAF, he returned to study sales and business.

Post war successes

Starting with the introduction of furniture made from plywood over a soft wood frame, a gradual transition was made to free standing kitchen units, including the Cambridge cabinet (right) that sold in its thousands over a seven year period. The price in 1959 was just over £20. When one came up on e-Bay an excited Adrian Stoneham stepped up the bidding until he obtained it. ‘ I told the owner and we did a little PR story for our website’ In 1958 the company became Stoneham & Son Ltd, moving to its current site in Powerscroft Road, Foots Cray in 1959. (Left: a 1954 van).

JUNE 2014 61

KITCHEN LIFE

From the 60s to 80s

By the ‘sixties, the family firm, of which Ed Stoneham became managing director in 1962, was manufacturing fitted kitchens; in the 1970s and into the 1980s it began selling through independent kitchen centres. In 1988 Adrian took over as managing director.

Royal Approval seals the 90s

In 1995 Stoneham acquired a new 20,000 square feet assembly plant factory in Sidcup: a year later, in 1996, it was granted the Royal Warrant in recognition of its three years of providing ‘ credibility, dependability and loyalty.’ While royal protocol prevents pinpointing exact locations, the company’s wares are spread throughout the UK’s royal residences. In complete contrast one 1960s’ cabinet appeared in the Trotter household in the TV hit series Only Fools & Horses

Expansion in the noughties

After acquiring a new 18,000 square feet finishing plant factory in 2007, the firm exhibited at the Grand Designs exhibition with the Marlborough – and continue to do so. In 2011 it launched a bespoke painting service for some ranges, along with a third fully re-designed website. More new ranges drawing on local history – the Holwood and Darwin – featuring unique recessed handles followed last year. This also saw the firm connect with social media. July, 2013, also saw Stoneham Kitchens join over 200 other Royal Warrant Holders for The Queen’s four day Diamond Jubilee spectacular in the grounds of Buckingham Palace – an appropriate royal curtain-raiser to 2014 and …

…150 years of innovation

The secret of success ? ‘Constantly reinventing ourselves while retaining the core family values of dependable craftsmanship and delivering what we promise,’ said Adrian, a philosophy stressed in a Stoneham art and design competition for schools in the London boroughs of Bromley and Bexley. This gave students the chance to design the Kitchen of the Future reflecting how a history of innovation could inspire a new generation of budding designers and manufacturers in 2064. Suggestions of what they would want to see in 50 years’ time included chocolate and Coke

dispensing taps and ovens you can talk to, the latter, added Adrian, not too far away from those using bar codes for settings already in the pipeline. No truer testament to Stoneham’s forward-thinking approach is the kitchens it makes today. With ranges spanning the in-frame Heritage collection to the exciting launch of new Avant Garde collections – Bewl, Neame and Fahrenheit, all featuring the latest componentry refinements and intelligent technology, Stoneham has carved a name for itself producing beautiful bespoke kitchens with quality service to match. With a loyal team of directors and staff at its factory showroom in Sidcup (photographed here at work by Adam Swaine) and an appointed retail network throughout the UK, the company’s 150th anniversary marks a mere moment in the continuing saga of this flourishing family firm. Stoneham plc, Powerscroft Road, Footscray, Sidcup, Kent, DA14 5DZ. Tel: 020 8300 8181 • email: kitchens@stoneham.plc.uk; • www.stoneham-kitchens.co.uk

62 JUNE 2014

Dreaming of a New Kitchen? Discover Kit Stone: Solid wood kitchens without a designer price tag!

f you’re dreaming of a new kitchen, then take a look at kitchen specialist, Kit Stone where kitchen prices might surprise you. At their Tunbridge Wells showroom, you’ll find the full range of Neptune kitchens, including two painted styles (available in a choice of 28 heritage colours) and one natural American oak kitchen. Handmade from solid wood, utilising the most traditional of techniques, every

KITCHEN LIFE cabinet is built upon a solid interlocking frame using mortice and tenon joints, with no mdf or chipboard. And with the average price of a kitchen just £15,000, it offers outstanding value for money too!

Chichester The Chichester is the ideal choice for a country kitchen - a classic painted kitchen, designed to complement a traditional home. The range includes freestanding furniture, including painted dressers.

Suffolk For a painted finish, but with a more contemporary feel, the Suffolk fits the bill with its Shaker-style clean lines. Hand painted in Dove Grey as standard, complementary dining furniture is also available. Call your local Tunbridge Wells showroom now for a free, no obligation design appointment. 7 Vale Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1BS Tel: 01892 522321 www.kitstone.co.uk.

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JUNE 2014 65

KITCHEN LIFE

Kitchens are the Kitchens

new living rooms ARE THE NEW LIVING ROOMS

On average, people spend from £8,000 to a massive £20,000 on a new kitchen. It is

On average, people spend from £8,000 depending to a massive on £20,000 on a range, new kitchen. is about creating about creating a dream space…so the price what It can that buy you? a dream space..... so depending on the price range, what can that buy you?

Choosing a theme for your kitchen

Contemporary kitchens The sleek look of a contemporary kitchen provides the practical use of space allowing for more movement in the kitchen and easier access to storage areas and necessary equipment. Contemporary colours provide a more open feeling, adding into the functional atmosphere of the space. No matter what your exact tastes and preferences, there is a contemporary kitchen design that will meet all your specific needs. French country kitchen This look combines rustic country charm with a grand, chateau-like sophistication. Opt for units in an aged shade of parchment or dove grey featuring beautifully-turned, bevelled detailing. Team with natural stone or slate flooring, Aga, chunky wooden worktops and tiled splashbacks in earthy shades. This also works well with freestanding features, like an antique-style armoire for displaying tableware and an island unit with matching hood. Hang copper pans and accessorise the room with rustic oil bottles and richly coloured earthenware. Shaker Style kitchen The clean lines and rustic feel of a shaker kitchen means they appeal to those who adore both contemporary design and a classic look. The round knobs, pillow-fronted doors and beautiful woods are features that epitomise the classic shaker style kitchen. An island in the middle can make an attractive and very useful addition. This dignified, elegant kitchen is never excessive but nevertheless stunning to look at and work in. Retro Kitchen A retro kitchen is styled in a way that includes elements that imitate kitchen trends of the past. You might find psychedelic colours that hark back to the 1970s, or even appliances based on those found in American households of the 1950’s. Adding a touch of retro fun to your new kitchen can be a great way to give character to the space, and is sure to provide a few nostalgic talking points. Layout Your kitchen should be designed for whatever you are likely to want to do in it. If you’re remodelling from scratch and have a large space, think open plan and multi-purpose – somewhere to eat, work, cook and relax. Kitchen experts John Lewis of Hungerford advise thinking hard about your lifestyle. Cabinets Cabinets are the workhorse of your kitchen. Think practically as well as aesthetically when it comes to the finish (highly polished dark colours show fingerprints easily, for example) and remember, neutrals stand the test of time more than bold colours which, incidentally, rarely work in small kitchens. You can always apply brighter colours to the walls or splash-backs (glass is effective).

Don’t neglect handles They can make or break a kitchen. Small handles generally don’t work, but chrome is effective and never dates.

Worktops Avoid wood near sinks or you’ll become a slave to re-oiling, and be warned, glass worktops quickly look tired and scratched. Consider twin-edged worktops that look like glass, but are laminate.Granite remains the top worktop choice. There are so many more materials at similar prices to the ubiquitous black. For sinks, stainless steel is best. For taps, the tri-flow system provides filtered water. Kitchen Flooring To put on a fantastic floor show, start by looking at the construction of your existing floor and make sure it’s suitable for the type of flooring you’ve got in mind. Heavy materials such as stone or terracotta tiles need a solid concrete base. If you’re laying a floor over wood, go for lighter materials such as lino, vinyl or wooden floorboards. Kitchen Lighting These days, the kitchen is a hub of activity so your lighting has to be flexible: illuminating work stations for cooking and offering a warm, welcoming glow for dining and entertaining. Task Lighting Safety must come first in any kitchen. For high activity areas where you’ll be preparing food you need plenty of illumination, so work out which areas you’ll be using for practical purposes and install task lighting. To avoid task lights throwing shadows over your work surfaces, make sure you position them directly above or slightly in front of where you stand to prepare food, and on a different circuit than your mood lighting to give you more flexibility in your lighting scheme. Downlights Downlights provide a general ambient glow. Choose halogen lights if you like clean, sparkling white illumination and put them on a dimmer switch so you can adjust the clarity to change the mood in the room. If you install more than one dimmer, you can create a variety of lighting effects – almost like building layers of light to give depth and warmth to the kitchen. Light for decoration If you have features in your kitchen that are particularly attractive, show them off using light. Draw attention to shelves by installing lights underneath; fit downlights into glass display cabinets to show off a collection of china; or use picture lights on the wall to draw the eye to a beautiful print or poster. If you’re getting a kitchen made specially for you, a truly bespoke kitchen, it will be tailor made for both the space and you. For pure luxury, this is the best that money can buy. So you can create your own dream kitchen!

For expert advice contact one of the local specialists in this Kitchen Supplement. 66 JUNE 2014 INNER LONDON Feb i45 010213.indd 97

27/02/2013 11:56:11

Coming soon... TEAM7 Kitchens at Wharfside Shoreditch

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wharfside.co.uk/kitchens JUNE 2014 67

La Belle Cuisine La Belle Cuisine THE KITCHEN & BEDROOM SPECIALIST

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CUSTOMER SERVICE SECOND TO NONE

ith 26 years of experience LA BELLE CUISINE prides themselves on offering a complete service from site survey to the completed kitchen, including small building works, plastering, plumbing, electrics, tiling and flooring. Also they will undertake worktop replacements in laminate and granite and an appliance replacement service. Call in and talk to the experts John or Keith or e-mail labelle.bexley@btconnect.com. La Belle Cuisine, 42 High Street, Bexley, Kent, DA5 1AH Tel: 01322 555353

APPLIANCES SUPPLIED & INSTALLED

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are made to measure for your kitchen. You can change your worktops, update your appliances, sink and taps as well as upgrading to soft close doors and drawers. Whether it is a repair or a complete makeover, the you can choose how much you wish to change in your kitchen. savings over the cost of a new kitchen and the disruption is kept to a minimum. how this well established local business could help you, please contact 1 Sevenoaks Road, Pratts Bottom, Kent BR6 7SF Tel: 01689 850000 Web: www.thekitchendoctor.com Email: chris@thekitchendoctor.com

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Bespoke Service with Quality Products C

reative Interior Designs was founded in 2003 and has continued to grow and provide a truly individual service to its many customers, both trade and retail with a wide range of suppliers covering all elements, designs and budgets. Our company philosophy is to provide a bespoke service with quality products based around each customer’s needs. Our showroom is in Beckenham but we can cover all areas and although we specialise in kitchens we have helped our customers design and install many other

rooms in their house including bathrooms, studies, bedrooms, playrooms, TV display areas and storage. Our services include a free design and consultation, site visits, supply only or full works with interior structural alterations. If you have plans for a new extension or are thinking of refurbishing your existing space then please pop in to our showroom at 71 High Street, Beckenham or call us on 0208 663 3393 to find out more about our products.

Creative Interior Designs, 71 High Street, Beckenham, Kent BR3 1AW 0208 663 3393 • www.creative-iduk.co.uk • info@creative-iduk.co.uk

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BRING the Indoors OUT Lounging and dining outdoors is one of the pleasures of summer but it must be done in style, because a poor setting will dampen spirits faster than a sudden downpour.

patio should be furnished as carefully as any indoor space and, ideally, mirror your interiors taste so that there’s a harmonious ‘flow’ from house to garden.

mean there are plenty of ranges in weather-proof materials, such as synthetic rattan, so that pieces can be left out all year round and require minimal maintenance.

Fortunately, it’s now easy to create an area which impresses, as there’s a huge variety of affordable good-looking quality furniture in high street stores and DIY supermarkets that competes well with the high-end designer ranges.

“Awnings, lighting and sound systems, and state-of-the-art barbecues and stunning furniture - that wouldn’t look out of place indoors - are transforming our perception of garden spaces. These truly are now ‘outdoor rooms’ that speak volumes about our taste.”

“Gardens are fast becoming an extension of the home with more and more people embracing a Europeam lifestyle - eating and entertaining outside, even though the weather sometimes doesn’t co-operate with our al fresco aspirations,” says Sarah Quilliam, head of product design for conservatory blinds and awnings specialists, Hillarys. “We’d all like a sophisticated, beautifully furnished area which seamlessly blends with our interior, and where we can enjoy an informal, laidback lifestyle with al fresco meals and spontaneous, impromptu gatherings on balmy evenings,” she adds. “Advances in design and technology

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Revel in rattan Aruba table and two benches, £799; two dining chairs, £249, Marks & Spencer

spot’ characterised by splashes of colour, particularly Mediterranean reds and oranges which add a spicy touch, reminiscent of sun-scorched days.” PATIO POWER: Go Modern’s contemporary collections feature designer ranges from Europe. Its Spanish Icpalli synthetic range is a winner, with a green and blue or red and brown colourway. Garden Armchair, £860, Side Table, £210. Resol Bob Sofa, £600, John Lewis

Patio perfection is easy to achieve; follow the experts’ advice and choose from a selection of patio kit to suit your budget.

COLOUR STORY Colour’s a given in interiors and is featuring strongly in patio collections. Those zingy shades can instantly brighten a small space and could be the answer if you lack bright, blooming borders or yearn for an exotic lift on dull days. “People are putting personality into their patios by using colour and texture to express their own individual style,” says Karen Wichard, designer at Alexander Francis. “They want to create the atmosphere of a ‘vacation

Just as desirable is the Resol range at John Lewis, which packs a mighty colour punch. Red Bob Sofa, £600, and coloured Fiona Armchairs, £115 each. Achieve a more gentle, decorative effect with a pretty bowl-shaped Carmen Chair, £250, covered in a green/blue polypropylene yarn, another gem from Oliver Bonas’s furniture range. When you’ve kitted out the space, don’t forget to add vibrantly coloured accessories, such

H O M E G A R D E N DOWN TO THE WOOD

as Marks & Spencer’s MultiColoured Parasol, £139, and Rio Seat Pads, £15 each.

Carmen chair, £250, Oliver Bonas.

Natural materials like wood and stone complement the colour palette of the great outdoors, rather than compete with it.

PATIO PENNY SAVERS: Mix and match coloured chairs from the Janeiro white powder-coated metal garden range from B&Q. Armchair, £25, available in blue, green or purple, and grey Table, £99.

“Beautifully crafted wooden

Roscana Textoline sunlounger with side tray, £129, B&Q

ALL WHITE

patio sets are a classic choice and will never date,” says Kate Watson, interior designer for furniture store, Fishpools.

Pure white’s the perfect choice if you want a sleek, uncluttered feel to your patio, and also evokes the bright exteriors of sunbleached Mediterranean homes.

“Of course, these will always suit a country-style garden, but there are many sleek, contemporary designs which will appeal to those who like a Scandi-look. Wood’s appeal is timeless and it will never fall out of favour.”

“Increasingly, we’re favouring a paredback look which matches our indoor style,” says Sarah Quilliam. “White or cream provides a brilliant contrast with the green of an outside space and helps to conjure a calm, peaceful atmosphere. Our cream or ivory fabric awning is becoming as popular as the more traditional striped fabrics.”

Qui Est Paul Ublo Lounging Set, White £1,399, John Lewis

PATIO POWER: Neptune’s impressive collection of garden furniture includes the teak Bristol Premier 6 Seater Set which, at £2,995, includes Roscana Armchair, cushions and a brown, £250, B&Q parasol.

PATIO POWER: A Danish designed Dansk range in teak and white synthetic leather is surely the height of cool lounging: Lounge Chair, £1,249, Coffee Table £999, Gloster.

There’s a reassuringly solid, chunky look to B&Q’s Roscana furniture range in a brown hardwood, which includes a generously deep-seated Armchair, £250, and a Textoline Sunlounger With Side Tray, £129.

John Lewis, never slow to follow a trend, has the Qui Est Paul? Ublo Lounging Set, £1,399, with tub-shaped chairs, sofa and coffee table, all made from UV-resistant polyethylene. Alternatively, if money’s no object, Go Modern has a blooming lovely Roses Garden Armchair, £1,140.

There’s a pleasing combination of white and wood in the Albee collection, an Armchair, £137, and Large Teak Garden Table, £795, which is part of Habitat’s Down to the Wood covetable revamped homes collection. Albee teak garden

Beat the sun’s glare and help define a patio space with an awning; Hillary’s fully motorised awnings start from £1,595.

armchair, £137, Habitat

PATIO PENNY SAVERS: Nereto Dining Chairs, £299 for two, complete with white seat covers and seat pads, Marks & Spencer.

PATIO PENNY SAVERS: For a smart, contemporary set, look no further than a Marks & Spencer’s Nordina eucalyptus wood collection; an extending dining table, two stacking and four folding chairs, £649. RIGHT: Photos (top to bottom): ALL WHITE Roses garden chair, £1,140, Go Modern www.gomodern.co.uk REVEL IN RATTAN Retro Rattan Effect 4 Seater Dining Set, £799, B&Q COLOUR STORY Icpalli garden armchair, £860; side table, £210, Go Modern www.gomodern.co.uk

Nereto dining chairs, a pair £299, with white seat cover and seat pads, Marks & Spencer

COLOUR STORY Patio Penny Savers Janeiro armchair £25; table £90, B&Q

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DOWN TO THE WOOD Bristol Premier 6 Seater Set,includes cushions and parasol, £2,995, Neptune

REVEL IN RATTAN Woven rattan furniture is enjoying huge popularity. Real rattan is the fastest growing hardwood on earth, reaching maturity in a couple of months, which makes it sustainable, superstrong and eco-friendly. If you prefer Revel in rattan minimal Retro Rattan chair maintenance, from coffee table synthetic and two chair set, rattan is a good £399, B&Q option. “Classic rattan-style pieces bring a traditional, elegant feel to the garden,” says Kate Mooney, founder of online interior design store, Occa-Home. “Woven furniture continues to appeal because it offers texture and comfort, while conjuring a laid-back feel that really furnishes a space. Choose from a rich, dark finish or the paler browns, which will look less dominating.” Keter Rattan Round Planters, set of three, £69, Isme.com

PATIO POWER: Marks & Spencer’s handwoven synthetic rattan Aruba collection is handsome and comfortable. For al fresco dining there’s the Table & 2 Benches set, £799, or just 2 Dining Chairs, £249. Sit back and socialise on a matching Sofa, £549, and Armchair, £329. If you really want to invest in luxury, a Navita Zigzag Day Bed, £1,399, is a good choice - and ideal for summer snoozing. Decor divas will find it hard to resist a fashionable Retro Rattan Effect 4 Seater Dining Set, £799, with a teak table and chairs in a subtle taupe shade. There’s also a more informal Retro Rattan Effect 2 Seater Coffee Set, comprising two chairs and a mini table, £399 (currently reduced to £342), all from B&Q. Keter Rattan Round Planters, £69 for a set of three, Isme, would be the perfect finishing touch. PATIO PENNY SAVER: A compact Black Rattan Bistro Set, £345, Alexander Francis, is ideal for informal entertaining where space is limited.

OUTDOOR DESTINATIONS

Alexander Francis: 0117 325 5247/www.alexanderfrancis.co.uk B&Q: 0845 850 0175/www.diy.com Fishpools: 01992 780 800/www.fishpools.co.uk Gloster: 01454 631 950/www.gloster.com Go Modern: 020 7731 9540/www.gomodern.co.uk Habitat: 0844 499 1111/www.habitat.co.uk

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ALL WHITE Dansk range in teak and white synthetic leather, Lounge Chair. £1249; Dansk Coffee Table £999, Gloster

Black rattan Bistro set, £345, Alexander Francis

Navita Zig Zag synthetic rattan day bed, £1,399, Marks & Spencer

Hillarys: 0800 916 6516/www.hillarys.co.uk Isme: 0844 811 8112/www.isme.com John Lewis: 0845 6049 049/www.johnlewis.com Marks & Spencer: 0845 302 1234/www.marksandspencer.com Neptune: 01793 427 427/www.neptune.com Occa-Home: 0844 879 4258/www.occa-home.co.uk Oliver Bonas: 020 8974 0110/www.oliverbonas.com

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JUNE 2014 73

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Origin pools PERFECTING THEIR CRAFT SINCE 1982

ince Origin’s inception over thirty years ago the world has changed considerably. A recent survey in The Times showed our changing tastes are never more marked than when it comes to the possessions we desire most. Today as a nation the top three on our wish lists are a high performance car, a designer watch and a swimming pool. In the eighties people were content with a car phone and a dishwasher! Today the world of swimming at home couldn’t be more different. Beautifully designed buildings nestling in gardens, within easy reach of the home, or in many cases attached, as a perfectly blended extension, using all the same colours and fabric as the main house. Interiors are constantly changing too. Recently the trend has moved away from the timber appearance, and gone towards painted finishes, resulting in a brighter state-of-the-art feel that reflects light beautifully, and shows off the pool to great effect. Origin’s designers can sense these changes of taste, and are constantly looking for exciting embellishments to add to what is their tried and tested principle - to create carefully designed

well built constructions that benefit from only the best new innovations that the increasingly sophisticated swimming pool world has to offer. And talking of principles, Origin’s main objective has always been to take every single project from concept to completion - meaning that the teams, many of whom have been with the company since those early days, are responsible for every element of the process internally, from design to building and the final fitting. This makes Origin an exception in the complex world of pool construction, and goes some way to explaining why the company is recognised as the leading builder of indoor pool houses. A reputation acquired over thirty years of technical progress. Today the company’s flagship range is the Olympic, widely accepted as the ultimate way to swim at home. But at the late development stage is the Eco Eco Pool House Pool House, an innovative design that benefits from today’s eco thinking and is set to change the rules of pool house technology. So Origin’s world has never looked better. They change with the times, constantly listen to the thoughts and ideas of their increasingly sophisticated clientele, and deliver their finished products beyond expectations. That is the Origin difference. Visit the website, read the new literature, and talk to Origin about what is possible for you, your home and your family.

Contact us For full details of all Origin’s pool houses the very best way to start things off is to get in touch with Fiona on 01895 823366, or email fiona@originleisure.com Fiona will send you brochures, fill you in with all the details, and even arrange for you to meet one of our directors on site to discuss the possibilities. Or visit www.originleisure.com to see our constantly changing and updating website.

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Sundridge Interiors QUALITY AND DESIGN

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.

76 JUNE 2014

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 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 rooms. They have a wide selection of ceiling lights which are complimented with floor and table lamps, 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 to design 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

Offering a Quality Installation

t Refined Windows we are very proud to be able to offer a stunning range of bespoke Timber Window, doors and conservatories with an incredible 15 year paint guarantee! We know the difference a quality installation can make to a property, particularly for the aesthetics, security and comfort. Our polite, professional and well trained staff make the whole process easy and straightforward. From initial contact all the way through to final sign off we ensure that you receive the service you deserve. We pride ourselves on listening closely to your design wants and specification needs. Our range of products allow a style to suit every property and budget. Working in Timber, Aluminum, UPVC and a range of timber alternatives we would love to get the chance to show what a difference we can make to your property! Call us today for a no obligation consultation to see what we can do to help you. Project2_HORIZ_SI_MAR14 06/02/2014 23:26 Page 1

Refined Windows www.refinedwindows.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ Tel: 0800 228 9928

INTERIOR SERVICE InteriorDESIGN Design Service 11-12 Sundridge Parade Plaistow Lane Sundridge Park Bromley BR1 4DT 020 8466 6313 www.sundridgeinteriors.com JUNE 2014

H O M E G A R D E N

The road to Eden

ou don’t have to be green fingered to want a beautiful garden. All you need is a desire to want your own unique outdoor living space, a realistic budget and a willingness to be helped along the way by someone who really knows what they’re doing. The journey to creating a new garden is a truly exciting and enjoyable experience. So, you need a garden designer. But what do they actually do? Like so many professions, garden designers wear a variety of different hats, from plant expert, to graphic artist and project manager. It isn’t just the soft green stuff that needs a trained eye, either. An experienced garden designer will have an armoury of knowledge on all aspects of construction too, from retaining walls, to lighting systems and land drainage. If it’s any part of a garden, a good designer will know how it’s put together, why it’s needed and the best way to do it. With so many designers to choose from, how do you find one that’s right for you? Recommendation is often a good way of finding a designer who has met client’s expectations before. Ask to see a portfolio of previous work. If you prefer to search online, you’ll be able to view the different styles and professional services each designer has to offer. Some designers have studied for years and trained, some haven’t. Gardens can be wonderful investments so you need someone who has dedicated the long hours to making the grade.

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Having found a designer whose work you like the look of, this is where the journey really begins. Most designers will offer a free visit at the start. It’s essential at this stage to be open about what you’re looking for, how much you want to spend and talk through any ideas and preferences you may have of your own. Some ideas on your wish list may work, others may not but your designer will expertly guide you through the whole process of refining the initial thoughts into a garden which works on every level. Experienced designers will also have a network of tried and trusted landscapers who can translate their ideas into reality so check they offer a full range of services. Next comes the survey which details everything in the existing garden. It’s vital to have accurate information right from the start. The designer will then offer initial sketches if you’re not quite sure which layout works best for you or proceed with a full, coloured concept plan, complete with 3D views and a written specification for each part of the garden. What’s most important is how creative those ideas are and how well they can be put into practice on the ground to achieve the final look. A good designer will always listen to you and ensure together you create a garden which is visually stunning, practical and unique. A good garden is one which invites you into it time and time again. Adam S Bailey Garden Design 01322 865566 • www.adamsbailey.com

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BlueBird offers her aDviCe OFFERS Care, HER ADVICE

Dear Debbie

Can you explain why some people are given money to Dear Debbie Dear Debbie help them with care costs and others have to pay for it all themselves? doesn’t seem veryare fair - they are all My sister and Iitare the main carers forgiven our elderly mother Can you explain why some people money to who lives alone a few miles away from both of us. oaP’s afterwith all. care costs and others have to pay forShe help them it has always been a fiercely independent lady and has Yours sincerely, all themselves? doesn’t seem they are It’s all loved her homeitwhere she has very livedfair for -40 years. Claire Chester oaP’s after all. where her main memories of husband and family lie. Yours After asincerely, few years of increasing confusion, she has now received a dementia diagnosis, apparently in early stage. Claire Chester We areClaire both very reluctant to put her into a care home. Dear Can home care help in this situation? the reason is that social Care is considered to be different Dear Claire from Health Care, which is covered by the NHs and is Yours sincerely Pauline S universally available without charge. “Fairness” is adifferent the reason is that social Care is considered to be difficult concept in social Care! at present, youand have from Health Care, which is covered by the if NHs is Dear Alexandra more than £23,250 in savings or capital, you have universally available without charge. “Fairness” is to a pay for your own social Care. ifCare! your savings that of difficult concept social present, ifbelow youcourse have The question forinyou and yourat sister isare “what level, you may qualify for some assistance from your actionthan will £23,250 be in your mother’sorbest interest?” Home more in savings capital, you have tolocal pay care can work very well for some people especially authority which will provide guidance. for your own social Care. if your savings are below that where are strong local relationships, say with even you if there you have to pay your own socialfrom Care, youlocal level, may qualify forfor some assistance your neighbours or church groups because they can remain may qualify for attendance allowance, which is not means authority will provide guidance. in contact- which with what is familiar to them. This often tested. to be eligible, you must be 65 or over and have even if you have toreassurance pay for yourinown social Care, you provides valuable a situation which either a physical or mental disability that is severe enough causes very real stress to those affected and their may qualify for attendance allowance, which is not means families. for you to help caring for yourself someone to tested. toneed be eligible, you must be 65 ororover and have supervise you, for your own disability or someone else’s safety. the Regular visits from skilled carers can check regularly either a physical or mental that is severe enough on well-being and safety, ensure adequate food intake payment is presently either: for you to need help caring for yourself or someone to and nutrition and ensure that medication is taken at the l £53 per week if you need frequent help or constant supervise you, for your own or someone else’s safety. the appropriate times. As the condition develops, regular supervision the day, or supervision at night, or payment is during presently contact with familiar either: faces offers reassurance, especially l £79 per week if you need help or supervision l £53 per youtrained need frequent or constant when the week carersifare in basichelp dementia coping throughout day and night, orwill youobviously are terminally strategies.both You andthe your sister wantorill. to supervision during day, or supervision at night, be at the heart of the care arrangements but carefully can claim byiffilling in Form available from the lYou £79 per week you need helpaa1a, or supervision coordinated home care visits can help share the burden. Post office, or by going online at www.dwp.gov.uk/eservice/ throughout both day and night, or you are terminally ill. Best wishes You can claim by filling in Form aa1a, available from the Debbie Moulton Best wishes, Post office, or by going online at www.dwp.gov.uk/eservice/ Care Manager Debbie Moulton Bluebird Care (Sevenoaks) Care Manager Best wishes, Bluebird Care (Sevenoaks) Debbie Moulton Care Manager Bluebird Care (Sevenoaks)

a u g u s t 2JUNE 0 1 3 2014 85

F O O D D R I N K

Restaurant Reviews This month, Food Editor Regan Maloney has visited two restaurants in Kent to give you her verdict on their menus. Full reviews of both restaurants, along with other great recommendations, recipes and dinner party game ideas can be found at www.whatiatelastnight.com

HERBERT’S 6 COMMONSIDE, KESTON

Q BAR AND KITCHE HIGH STREET, BECKENHAM

If you own or have a local restaurant that you’d like to recommend for reveiw, please email regan@whatiatelastnight.com

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Overview 86 JUNE 2014

Herbert’s (previously Lujon) opened with its new name, decor and delicious menu in May of this year. Overlooking the common with its wide open doors on a sunny day and new comfy sofas to lounge on inside, it’s perfect for a family lunch or special dinner.

With its cool decor of white chairs, wooden tables and big open doors on to the High street, Q Bar and Kitchen is always busy on a sunny day. You have to get there early to secure one of their tables outside.

We were greeted at the door with a very warm welcome and taken to our seats for a pre-dinner drink and a run through the new menu. Great advice was given on dishes as well as wine pairing with each course and the warmth and friendly service continued through the evening.

There are a large friendly team of kitchen and bar and restaurant staff. Our waiter talked us through the menu, delivered a slick service, and also made cocktails!

Chef Patron, Angela Herbert-Bell is not only passionate about the food that she prepares in her restaurant, but she also teaches cookery classes and has an award winning carrot cake under her belt. The freshness and quality of produce was amazing, demonstrated in the smooth clean spiciness of the deviled kidneys to start. For main, the pork belly with pomme puree, kale, calvados jus and apple puree melted in the mouth and had the crispiest thinnest crackling I’ve ever had. Portion sizes were extremely generous, however we had to try the side of mac ‘n’ cheese (which was so good that we ended up taking some home!) For dessert, we shared a lemon posset with shortbread. Sharp and tangy but with a smooth creaminess that meant you didn’t want it to end.

There are a wide selection of Mediterranean dishes available as well as a whole section of dishes made in traditional Balkan clay pots. To start, we enjoyed the calamari - fresh, tender and in a light crisp batter. For main, the fillet of sea bass marinated in olive oil, rosemary and lemon juice, presented on a wooden board and sitting on a bed of garlic mash potato with pesto sauce hit the spot. To finish, we shared homemade Baklava - silky sweet honey with walnuts, filo pastry and served with a vanilla ice cream.

We started with a Hendricks and tonic served with the essential slice of cucumber. Cocktails are available, along with a wine of the month served in a carafe. We opted to have our wine by the glass so that it could be paired with each of the dishes. The Merlot worked extremely well with the spicyness and strong flavour of the kidneys, and a Pinot Noir from Chile added a different dimension to the pork belly.

A wide selection of handmade cocktails are available. We opted for the passionfruit mojito - a perfect mixture of sharp and sweets and extremely moreish! To accompany the sea bass we opted for the Sauvignon blanc, served ice cold and with a nice dry crispness to accompany the pesto.

Amazing food in a comfortable friendly atmosphere morning, noon and night.

The perfect place for a cocktail or a taste of the Med.

FOR THE LOVE OF STEAK

#brandedsteaks

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Herbert’s

– DELIVERING GREAT FOOD WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH Herbert’s was launched on 3rd May 2014.

Above: Angela Herbert-Bell pictured with Dominique Schefferlie at the launch of Herbert’s

fter running her own cookery school and Michelin listed restaurant for a number of years, Angela Herbert-Bell decided to launch her restaurant under her family name. Herbert.

She was inspired by her Grandparents, Kitty and Herbert Herbert who owned fruit and vegetable stalls in Brick Lane, London many years ago. She also wanted to pay a fitting tribute to here mother who taught her how to cook, who died 3 years ago and her uncle, James Herbert, the well known horror writer who also died suddenly last year. ‘It has been a great team effort with special thanks to Dominique Schefferlie. For me, I wanted to simplify things and

go back to my roots. The atmosphere is warm, relaxed and welcoming and the menu is eclectic, it doesn’t fit into a box, so I hope there is something for everyone making Herbert’s accessible to all.’ Chef Patron Angela Herbert-Bell has a passion along with her dedicated team, for delivering great food with a personal touch. The menu is full to the brim with homely treats, top quality steaks, scrumptious weekend brunch goodies and of course famous Sunday Lunch. Everything is fresh, loving homemade and as local as possible. The vegetarian and salad menu is extensive and delicious too! The wine and cocktail list boasts imaginative and vibrant choices – mixing old classics with new found pleasures. Come and enjoy just a cup of delicious coffee and read the papers in our chilled bar area. The unique blend for our coffee beans has been carefully selected by us. Whether you’re snacking from the bar menu, sipping on cocktails or munching on one of Angela’s aware winning cakes or bakes we hope you’ll find our sofas so snug and comfy you’ll spend hours relaxing with us. For an intimate and special dining experience, our upstairs restaurant is the perfect setting for a romantic meal, a leisurely dinner with old friends or even a private party for a memorable occasion. We look forward to seeing you – expect a warm welcome! Herberts 6 Commonside, Keston, Kent BR3 6BP Tel: 01689 855 501 thisisherberts.co.uk

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A warm welcome awaits you at any time of the day

A great place for coffee, cake, cocktails, brunch, lunch or dinner. We pride ourselves on baking and making everything in house from our bread to our ice creams. Seasonality and fresh local produce are at our heart. 6 Commonside . Keston . Kent . BR2 6BP

T 01689 855 501

JUNE 2014 thisisherberts.co.uk

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B a r

“What a rare find in suburbia! – offering a great modern twist on Indian cuisine”

Father’s Day A La Carte Special 3 courses £23 * Supplements of £2.50 on Cinnamon Grill & £5 on Wild Madagascar Prawn apply. Sides charged separately

**** Tandoori Festival Thrills from the Grill 3 - 29 June

**** 3 for 2 Kingfisher & Cobra * bottled beers only

46 Plaistow Lane, Bromley, BR1 3PA t: 020 8289 0322 e: info@cinnamonculture.com w: www.cinnamonculture.com Saffron Culture Catering e: info@saffronculture.co.uk w: www.saffronculture.co.uk

e c c o o m m m n G G u d e RR e m ee nn dd ee dd i i nn tt hh ee M M ii cc hh ee ll ii n u ii d e 2 00 11 43

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Evolve – Stone/Natural Walnut

Designed for living At Stoneham, the values we’ve been building into our bespoke kitchens for the last 150 years haven’t changed. Every hand-built Stoneham kitchen fulfils its own streamlined elegance both effortlessly and exquisitely. It’s about making the very best of the best – the finest woods and natural materials, the most innovative features and latest technology, supremely crafted by the most knowing and capable hands. Appointed kitchen centres available locally and nationwide. For a colour brochure and details of the Centre most convenient to you call 020 8300 8181 or visit:

www.stoneham-kitchens.co.uk

Stoneham plc, Powerscroft Road, Sidcup, Kent DA14 5DZ. Factory Showroom Opening: Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 12 midday. 92 JUNE 2014