Mid Kent Living Magazine Spring 2022

Mid Kent

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Facing the future with

The new boss of Demelza Hospice, Lavinia Jarrett Seven pages of

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Editor’s Letter

Welcome A

pril heralds the start of the flyfishing season and that means spending days beside favoured trout and grayling rivers run by our popular, sought-after angling club.

Despite a four-year waiting list, there is nothing elitist about the sport, the club or its membership – quite the reverse, in fact.

It prides itself in making chalk stream fishing accessible to normal, working people.

Its peaceful settings were a great comfort to many older members during the pandemic, offering a safe place to "exercise", once fishing was exempted.

Most members were just grateful to find an excuse to leave the house.

As I write, the daffs are a blaze of yellow in our village, birds are busy nestbuilding in the ivy and hopeful buds are appearing on the branches of trees.

And preparations are now in full swing for the Queen's Jubilee. From my contacts around the parishes, it sounds like June will be quite a party.

Our Queen knows the sense of wellbeing and that her people need a tonic, while we all stare across Europe in troubled silence wondering what the future holds for tens of millions of innocents.

This edition of Mid Kent Living is all about getting out and about - be it a National Trust property, a Kent Wildlife Trust site or the Margate's marvellous Turner Contemporary.

There is a bundle of advice for the garden this springtime – from lawn care to growing herbs.

But don’t miss our big interview with the new, big boss of the Demelza children’s hospice, Vin Jarrett. Enjoy.

Simon

Simon Finlay, Editor

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Contents

7

11

Inside this issue…

Interview 7-9 Personality Profile

Simon Finlay and Chris Lawson catch up with new Demelza Hospice boss, Lavinia Jarrett

Editor’s Choice 11-20 A selection of hand-picked events

And great days out around the county throughout the spring months

Leisure & Tourism 24-25 A Great Day Out Visit Kent Wildlife Trust’s sites 28-29 Tourist Profile Down to Margate for the Turner Contemporary 30 Theatre See who’s on stage this spring 47 Gardens to Visit The National Trust’s offerings

Lifestyle 36-43 Senior Living 45 Mind, Body and Soul 49-55 Homes and Gardens 56-59

Sales, Services

60-61

Motoring News

62 Competitions

4 Mid MidKent KentLiving Living

28 Solar PV Specialists

Generating tomorrow's power today

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Living Mid Kent

Covering the Mid Kent area Mid Kent Living is published every three months with a free circulation in Maidstone, Medway, Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Malling, Ashford and Sittingbourne. It is available at selected pick-up points throughout the area including major supermarkets.

Subscription copies are posted (£8 annually).

The Team Mid Kent Living is published by Mail Publications Ltd (which also publishes the Downs Mail newspaper), Forge House, Bearsted Green Business Park, Bearsted, Maidstone, ME14 4DT.

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Demelza Hospice Care For Children has just appointed a new chief executive, Lavinia Jarrett, at a critical point in its 28-year history, as Simon Finlay reports…

I

T IS hard to reconcile the image of the figure picking up horse muck from a field at 5.30 on a dark, winter’s morning with the person who has just taken charge of one of the most important children’s charities in the country. But for Lavinia Jarrett this is normal, part of a daily routine that helps to keep her sane in the face of the huge tasks in front of her at Demelza Hospice Care for Children, near Sittingbourne.

She takes up the reins, if you like, at perhaps the most challenging time, post-Covid, in its 28 year history and the boss, known to all as ‘Vin’, has been there for 22 of them.

Demelza, which now has three sites in the south-east, is a place where, in short, very sick children go to slip away from their suffering. It is done so in Demelza’s calmness and loving serenity and where those left behind find

comfort and understanding in their darkest hour.

Vin was born in Chelmsford, Essex, to her soldier father (a Grenadier Guard) and a mother who was a nurse. She doesn’t say when, other than to allude to “a very big figure fast approaching”. While she was still a young child they relocated to Sittingbourne (‘my hometown’) and has remained in the area ever since.

Clearly, her parents were “big influencers” in her life, her guiding lights.

She says: “They taught me about being kind, forgiving, supportive and caring – values I hold very dear to this day.

“I had the most loving childhood; money was in short supply, but love, fun and affection were not. My parents adored children and loved all four of their grandchildren with a passion.

“They met and married in the early 1950s when my dad, a Second Battalion Grenadier Guard, was stationed at Chelsea Barracks, and my mum, a nurse who trained and worked at Kings College Hospital London, met on a bus coming home from a dance. The rest is history, as they say.

“Both were massive Demelza supporters and my dad used to package and send off all Demelza’s mail order Christmas cards, which used to make the hospice about £40k per year in those days. Sadly, I lost my parents in 2003, but I know how incredibly proud they would be of Demelza today and of me working hard to lead us in the right direction.”

Vin attended Highsted Grammar School, where like many in the selective system at the time, were told that they represented the “top 15%”, a label that she “hated”.

Mid Kent Living 7

Personality Profile

‘They say you should find something you like doing and you will never work again - I love what I do…’

“We were also told not to have anything to do with horses and to never be a secretary. I have lived for horses throughout my life and in particular during my school years, so I left to train as a medical secretary! I have never worked as a medical secretary, although the knowledge of medical terminology has been invaluable, and I suspect I may not have been the school’s greatest stand out pupil.

However, I made life-long friends and there were some excellent teachers who made a lasting impression on me, for which I am extremely grateful.”

Vin is “incredibly close” to her sister Teresa, who is seven years older.

“Growing up I think I may have been a massive inconvenience, as I am seven years younger than her, but now we are incredibly close and I, literally, couldn’t be without her.

We tend to know exactly what each other is thinking (good and bad) and we often only have to look at each other before bursting out laughing.”

According to Teresa, Vin was an “independent, confident and very occasionally argumentative child”, traits she hopes to have shaken off today.

These days, she lives close to the hospice wither husband of 30 years, Nigel, with whom she has two “beautiful” daughters, Rebecca and Lauren, who represent her “most precious and proud achievement”.

Rebecca works for the Kent Fire and Rescue Service, and like mum, is horse-mad while Lauren is a children’s nurse at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

A pattern of professional caring and/or public office starts appearing through Vin’s entire family, it seems.

She jokes: “We’re working crazy hours at the moment so the horses are my downtime.

I need that downtime. I don’t mind getting up at five in the morning to pick up poo and muck the stables out and go for a ride – then do the same at night when work finishes.”

Lauren, who was deterred from equine pursuits by cold weather and mucking out, does share the love of all animals.

“It goes without saying that all my family are great Demelza supporters, Lottery players and ambassadors. Supporting Demelza is a phenomenon that engulfs many families; it’s how it is. In our volunteers, we have husband and wife teams, mums and daughters, dads and sons, and often the whole family.”

In the 22 years she has been at Demelza, the hospice has grown from 30 staff and fewer than 100 volunteers to 360 employees and 1,100 voluntary workers.

“I think I may have done almost every job in the organisation at some time through our ‘Work in Their Shoes’ initiative, to help us understand and respect each other and the challenges we have in our individual roles.”

Her five-year strategy, which neatly dovetails with the emergence from the pandemic restrictions, includes a bold and courageous programme of training its own nurses in the face of national shortage of specialist healthcare professionals.

Coronavirus curtailed fundraising towards the £12m running costs, particularly since the Government contributes only 12%.

“They say you should find something you like doing and you will never work again.

Well, the hours are long and the work can be challenging, even heart-breaking, at times, but I love what I do. We say we admit it, we love what we do. From every staff member to every volunteer – it shows.

“The children and their families are the most rewarding and the best part of this role.

They can face great adversity in their lives, yet children with complex needs are cared for by their families like there has been years and years of training.

“You cannot underestimate the strength these families find from within, nor can you imagine how anyone could do a better job for each child. I am always humbled and inspired in equal measure.”

8 Mid Kent Living

Personality Profile

Vin was acting chief executive of the Demelza for eight months before officially taking up the job on February 2 this year after a rigorous interview process from the trustees and children and parents.

She says: “Our whole leadership team and children and families have helped to contribute to our new strategy from April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2027, and I cannot wait to share it with you. I am truly honoured to love what I do and have such great teams around me.”

There are just under 745,000 nurses on the Nursing and Midwifery Council Register in the UK but less than 10% are children’s nurses or learning disability nurses, who are most likely to have the skills to meet the needs of providing palliative care in a children’s hospice setting. The estimates are that the UK is around 40,000 nurses short to fill all the currently vacant posts in the UK, and some claim this figure is much higher.

“More nurses will support our aim to provide more care to more children and families, giving choice to where they would like to receive end of life care when the time comes, and supporting the whole family throughout the child’s life.”

Does Vin have any vices?

“My biggest vice is horses, in fact, all animals.

When my daughters were younger we bred our beautiful King Charles spaniel. She had nine puppies across two litters. I know where all of them are and I still own one of them (she is now 10). My sister has another two, and my nephew has one. I also have a seven-yearold black Labrador who was rescued from a house when his owner was sadly found dead.

He had been overfed, was morbidly obese and had never been exercised. He has been with us nearly three years now, and is a gorgeous gentle giant. Like all Labradors, he still thinks he is a puppy and is unlikely to grow up, despite his greying muzzle.”

Donate As a charity, Demelza is almost entirely dependent on its supporters to provide the funds that keep its services going. If you would like to find out more about the charity and to donate, please go to: www.demelza.org.uk/ donate

What makes Vin laugh?

“If my lovely husband asks me what I would like for a birthday or Christmas present I always say ‘anything with four legs’. He now threatens to buy me a table. A good sense of humour is a must for a children’s hospice. You may think they are dark and dismal places and that couldn’t be further from the truth. They are places of great fun and humour, places where memories are made for the entire family, where support, kindness and nonjudgemental care is in abundance.”

Mid Kent Living 9

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Hand-picked events from the editor

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Hand-picked events and great days out around the county...

April 16 Faversham Artisan Crafts and Gift Market

April

Until April 18 Easter Family Fun

Alexander Centre, Faversham

Hever Castle, Edenbridge

Wheelchair access Family event Music event Dog friendly Theatre

April 17 Easter Sunday Egg Hunt Bredgar and Wormshill Light Railway, Sittingbourne

FREE

Hop through the beautiful grounds following the trail of colourful carrots and look out for the Hever bunny.

Celebrate spring by taking part in a free Easter Egg hunt. Once you find the Easter eggs, write down all the answers hidden around the eggs, and you’ll receive a chocolate treat from the information centre (dairyfree alternatives available). With a spring in your step, head to the Think Tank and let your little ones get creative in a free craft workshop.

Activities are included in normal admission prices unless stated otherwise.

Until May 31 Blossom Tours Brogdale Collections, Faversham

With thousands of fruit trees, Brogdale is one of the most spectacular places in Kent to enjoy beautiful blossom. The National Fruit Collection at Brogdale holds over 400 cherry varieties, along with the added bonus of celebrating all the other blossoming fruit trees on site including apples, pears, quince and plums in 150 acres of orchards. The blossom tours will take you on a journey around the collections, discovering the seasonal highlights and peak blossom areas of the orchards.

To book go to www.brogdalecollections.org.uk

A market offering a range of jewellery, artwork, homeware, soaps, candles, gifts and much more.Open from 10am to 3pm.

April 16 – 18 Maidstone Tattoo Extravaganza Kent Showground, Detling

Grab a form from the gate when you arrive to take part with chocolate treats for those who find the hidden eggs.

Tickets cost £15 for adults and £7.50 for children. To book go to www.bwlr.co.uk/tickets-online.

April 19 Tulip Celebrations Hever Castle, Edenbridge

April 10 Spring Fling Plant Fair Great Comp, Sevenoaks

The annual spring plant fair will feature specialist and award-winning nurseries keen to showcase the wealth and range of plants available at this time of year. The Old Dairy Tearoom will also be open throughout the event serving delicious cakes and lunches.

The event runs from 10am to 5pm. To book go to www.greatcompgarden.co.uk

This is a truly independent show taking place over the Easter bank holiday weekend, bringing tattooists, entertainment and traders together to create, sell, and show off their talents.

Tickets cost £10 on the day. To book go to www. maidstonetattooextravaganza. co.uk

Feel uplifted by over 40,000 tulips proudly standing to attention at Hever Castle. A kaleidoscope of brightly coloured parrot, Darwin, peony, and triumph tulips will declare that spring has well and truly arrived.

Activities are included in normal admission prices.

April 15 -16 Easter Beer & Cider Festival Margate Winter Gardens, Margate

The festival returns with a selection of the finest real ale, cider and perries from across the UK, with an impressive selection of national and international bottled ales and lightly sparkling ciders. It is open from noon to 9.30pm on Friday and noon to 7.30pm on Saturday.

To book go to www.margate-live.com.

April 16 The English Festival Riverside Country Park, Rainham FREE

Celebrating St George’s Day and the most iconic and ironic English historic and modern traditions, from donkey rides to helter skelter, live music and a George and the Dragon show, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

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Hand-picked events from the editor

April 23 – 24 & June 18 – 19 Detling Antiques, Vintage & Collectors Fair Kent Showground, Detling FREE

A weekend fair where you will find goods for the home and garden.

Everything from antiques, vintage, retro, and salvage. With both indoor stands and outdoor pitches, it is a great hunting ground for interiors enthusiasts and lovers of antique and vintage style.

Entry is £6. The market opens from 8.30am to 4.30pm on Saturday and 10am to 3.30pm on Sunday.

April 24 Dawn Chorus Bird Walk Bore Place, Chiddingstone

Join bird expert, Tom Forward, for an early morning birdsong-filled wander through the beautiful fields and woodlands. April is a great time of year for beginners to get their ear in and learn the songs of the resident birds before other species fly in for their summer visit.

Ofsted registered

This walk will help you tune in to the sounds of your garden and local area and build your confidence in picking out different songs. Bring binoculars if you have them. After the walk, you're welcome to stop by for a cup of tea or coffee. The walk will start from 5am to 7am.

Adults tickets are £8. To book go to www.boreplace.org/ whats-on.

and producers selling bread, cheese, honey, fruit, vegetables, wild game, fruit juices, fresh meat and much more.

April 24 Monster Auto, Bike, Boat & Aero Jumble

A five-day, multi-venue festival celebrating the diversity of live music and music venues in the county town, with a focus on original and upcoming music.

The Maidstone Fringe Festival celebrates the bringing together of fabulous local musicians and venues. The majority of events during the festival will be free to attend, with some ticketed shows by more established artists.

For more information go to www.maidstonefringe.com.

The Aylesford Priory, Aylesford

Over 200 plots available for all car enthusiasts. Admission is £5 per person and children under 16 go free. The event will run from 10am to 3pm. Call 01732 840787 to book.

April 24 Cliftonville Farmers Market The Walpole Green, Cliftonville FREE

The market was established in 2001 and is run entirely by volunteers. This award-winning farmers market includes stalls

We take Childcare Vouchers

April 28 – May 2 Maidstone Fringe Festival

Scalera, Grace Hilling, Lauren Bassett, Gina Uden, Patrick Fallaize and Alex himself will each perform a selection of songs for a great cause Tickets are £5. Doors open at 7pm. To book go to www.thelittleboxoffice.com.

Jubilee Square, Maidstone FREE

April 30 Charity Gig in aid of Kent Air Ambulance Avenue Theatre, Sittingbourne

Alex Lane brings together seven of the most talented artists in Kent. Martin Morris, Gianni

April 30 – May 2 Rochester Sweeps Festival Rochester Castle Gardens, Rochester FREE

Rochester Sweeps Festival is one of the largest gatherings of Morris dancing sides in the world, with the streets, parks, bars and pubs filled with the best and quirkiest live folk music and dance over this three-day spectacular.

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Hand-picked events from the editor

April 30 – May 2 May Bank Holiday Celebrations Kent Life, Sandling

April 30 Leeds Castle Joust Leeds Castle, Leeds

Medieval Jousting returns to Leeds Castle this bank holiday weekend with mighty clashes and thrilling entertainment for all ages. Competing over three days for the coveted Leeds Castle International Cup, a team of five skilled fighters from France battle against five brave competitors from England, each with their own horse and precious armour.

Throughout the weekend there will also be other medieval events and activities to entertain, educate and thrill.

The event is included with the price of admission.

railway, museum, tractors and farm equipment, steamrollers, and the UK's only American 105-foot aerial ladder fire truck. Adult tickets are £20 on the gate. To book go to www.bwlr.co.uk/tickets-online.

May 1 May Day Celebrations and Bluebells Bredgar and Wormshill Light Railway, Sittingbourne

Set in parkland and woodland, visit this beautiful location with a number of attractions including rides on passenger steam trains from Warren Wood station through to Stony Shaw and back again.

There will also be a huge model

Tenterden Leisure Centre, Tenterden

Get your skates on, zoom around the sports hall, skate and dance to the music under the sparkling disco lights. Friendly staff are always on hand to show you how to skate, you’ll be rolling in no time. Tickets cost £7.

The event runs from 4.30pm to 6pm. Skates and safety gear included.

Celebrate the build-up to May Day and join in on traditional celebrations for this ancient festival.

There will be plenty of singing and dancing from entertainers to enjoy whilst picnicking on the lawn.

Guests make a headband to wear on the big day and take home as a souvenir. Entry is £12. The event will run from 10am to 5pm.

May

May 7 Roller Disco

May 8 Family Bike Ride The Abbey School, Faversham

May 1 Bluebell Walk Harrietsham Village Hall, Harrietsham

Help raise funds for Heart of Kent Hospice on this six-mile walk. Cold drinks will be available at various stops along all the routes, including at the “Field of Memories” where walkers can remember a loved one.

Tickets are £10. Secure your place at www.hokh.org/ support-us.

Back by popular demand and with support from local business, this will be a wonderful way to shake off the winter blues, get out for fresh air, have fun and make a difference. The 12.5km route is suitable for all ages and abilities. Join on your own, as a family or with a group of friends.

The event starts at 10am.

For more information go to www.favershamrotary.org/ bike-ride.

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Hand-picked events from the editor

May 13 Fort Amherst Ghost Hunt

May 13 Bat Walk Bore Place, Chiddingstone

Fort Amherst, Chatham

Experience a night of ghost hunting. Participate in séances, vigils, table tilting, glass moving, ouija boards, EVP experiments, automatic writing and much more. This hunt is conducted with a team of professional mediums and paranormal investigators.

The event will run from 8pm to 2am. Tickets are £46 per person. Over 18s only.

May 13 Exploring the Gardens Canterbury Cathedral, Canterbury

Join the team for a fascinating day exploring the gardens. The day will start with coffee, followed by a talk by the cathedral’s head gardener and a chance to see some items from the wonderful collections of the archives and library relating to gardens and wildlife. To book, email events@canterburycathedrallodge. org or call 01227 865350.

The event will run from 10am to 5pm. Tickets cost £59 per person.

A nocturnal quest to see bats and their amazing aerial acrobatics and other night-time animals.

After a short introduction about these fascinating creatures, you’ll be guided on a night walk around Bore Place farm, along farm footpaths, using bat detectors to listen out for bats as they leave their roosts and fly out to catch insects.

The walk runs from 7pm to 9.30pm. Adults tickets are £8.

To book go to www.boreplace. org/whats-on/4383/bat-walk.

May 14 Beginners’ Birdwatching Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve, Sevenoaks

If you love birds but need a bit of help knowing how to find and identify them, then this course is for you. An indoor introduction will be followed by an outdoor session, where you will practice field-craft and look for birds of woodland and wetland. Led by Richard Moyse, an entomologist with more than

35 years’ experience studying and conserving wildlife in Kent.

Tickets cost £35.

Call 01622 662012 for more information.

May 14 - 15 Festival of Transport Market Place, Faversham

Celebrating transport throughout the ages. Enjoy a vast array of cars, buses and motorcycles, as well as various craft stalls, delicious food and drink stalls and live music. To book, go to www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ faversham festival-of-transporttickets-187548321077.

May 14 – 15 Sandwich Food Fayre Cattle Market, Sandwich FREE

More than 50 home-grown and international food stalls will fill the streets. There will be plenty of food and drinks to buy and enjoy on-the-go as well as to take home and enjoy. Live music will be played by various visiting artists to add to the festival atmosphere. The fayre will run from 10am to 5pm.

May 14 – 15 1940s Weekend Kent & East Sussex Railway, Tenterden

A whole weekend of pure nostalgia, recreating the sights, sounds and fashions of the 1940s. A variety of attractions are planned for each station, and re-enactors and singers will be performing throughout the weekend.

Adult tickets cost £25 and child tickets cost £13.50. Go to www.kesr.org.uk/1940sweekend.

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Hand-picked events from the editor

May 18, June 1 & June 29 Fish and Chip Steam Special

The event will run from 10.15am to 12.15pm.

Tickets are £25. To book go to www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk.

May 27 – 29 The Rise Up Festival Headcorn Aerodrome, Headcorn

Kent and East Sussex Railway, Tenterden

Spend a lovely evening travelling through the picturesque Rother Valley in a train hauled by a classic British Steam Locomotive. Arrive at 6pm for a 6.30pm departure from Tenterden. The train is scheduled to arrive back at approximately 9.15pm. Drinks and snacks are available to buy onboard.

Tickets cost £29.95 for adults and £19.95 for children.

May 22 A morning at Ham Fen Ham Fen Nature Reserve, Worth

This is a rare opportunity to visit a nature reserve that is usually closed to the public. Learn about the restoration of the fen and see for yourself the amazing work that is being carried out by a resident beaver colony.

The morning will consist of a walk around the reserve with a warden, to learn about this unique habitat and to observe evidence of beaver activity.

May 25 Anything Goes May 24 – June 12 Gaia Rochester Cathedral, Rochester

If you loved the Museum of the Moon, you won’t want to miss Luke Jerram’s Gaia. Measuring seven metres in diameter, Gaia features 120dpi detailed NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface.

The artwork provides the opportunity to see our planet on this scale, floating in threedimensions. A specially made surround sound composition

by BAFTA award-winning composer Dan Jones is played alongside the sculpture.

For more information go to www.rochestercathedral.org.uk

The Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury

Cole Porter's classic musical taps into Canterbury.

Featuring a 50-strong ensemble of the finest to offer on stage, this five-star hit production shimmers and sparkles for two weeks only.

Directed by the multi awardwinning Broadway director and choreographer Kathleen Marshall, this production features heart-warming romance, good old-fashioned farcical fun and spectacular dance routines.

To book go to www.marlowetheatre.com.

Three stages will host a variety of artists each day. Headlining is Supergrass and Queen Symphonic plus iconic “Place Your Hands” band Reef, Peter Hook and the Light, Glen Matlock (Sex Pistols) and The Primitives.

Other bands performing are CoCo and the Butterfields, Milky, Veridian and Old Time Sailors and many more. To book go to www.theriseupfestival.com.

May 27 - 29 The Kent Garden Show Kent Showground, Detling

This show will feature over 300 exhibitors with a wide variety of goods on display and for sale. The show features floral marquees including medal winners from Chelsea. The garden exhibitors have all manner of gardening goods for sale and include over 60 nurseries. There is a craft pavilion, food hall, brass band and children's rides.

Pre-booked tickets cost £10 for adults and £8 for seniors.

Under 16s go free.

T H E B I G C AT SA N C T UA RY

O P E N D AY S 2 7 TH - 3 1 ST J U LY 2 0 2 2

A fabulously fun day, see our amazing ca leopards and jaguars as well as learn about our conserva

gers, work

Falconry shows An og displays Keeper talks, big cat enrichment and health checks African drumming and workshops Art and cra Refreshments Entry from £22.80 (per adult) and £16.90 (per child) Advanced bookings only, purchase your kets by r website

www.thebigcatsanctuary.org The Big Cat Sanctuary, Headcorn Road, Smarden, Kent TN27 8PJ | 01233 439 150

Charity Reg No. 1104420

Mid Kent Living 17

Hand-picked events from the editor Enjoy hot food from the new onsite caterers or quench your thirst with a cold drink from the bar.

May 28 – June 1 Baa-rilliant Half Term & Sheep Show Kent Life, Sandling FREE

May 28 City of Rochester Symphony Orchestra The Central Theatre, Chatham

This concert marks a welcome return of the orchestra to the stage after so many months of lockdown - one not to be missed. The programme is packed with music that is sure to please, including Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture and music from a number of blockbuster films.

To book go to www. medwayticketslive.co.uk

Join the farm’s entertainers in various animal shows and activities. Guests can watch the annual sheep-shearing show and even get crafty with sheep’s wool. There will be plenty of games for the whole family as well as owl demonstrations throughout the day.

Tickets cost £12. The event will run from 10am to 5pm.

May 28 Proms in the Park Whatman Park, Maidstone FREE

Enjoy a day of classical music, community spirit and relaxation.

Whatman Park provides the backdrop for this year's unforgettable afternoon and evening of music. Maidstone Wind Symphony, Invicta Jazz, Hazlitt Choir and Hazlitt Youth Theatre, and more, will be taking to the stage this year.

May 28 – May 30 WWII Weekend May 28 - 29 Medieval Weekend

Dover Castle, Dover

Lullingstone Castle, Eynsford

Embrace the atmosphere and action of the 1940s. Witness a tense, action-packed battle between the allied and German forces featuring striking pyrotechnics and real-life vintage army vehicles. Experience life on the home front, get a victory roll hairdo at the 1940s beauty parlour or relive the Blitz spirit with a warming brew from an original Naafi wagon whilst you send the kids off to play at hands-on activities, including the Sergeant’s infamous assault course.

Admission to this event is in addition to the standard admission ticket price.

Don’t miss the transformation of Lullingstone into a magical medieval village, a chance to step back in time to experience the authentic sights and sounds. There will be living history displays including live firing of cannons and mock battles, as well as character dress, tents and medieval weapons, courtesy of Woodvilles medieval re-enactment group.

The event will run from 11am to 5pm.

Seaview 12 Month Occupancy

Park Life at it’s best!

01795 510275 Introducing our new chalet development at Seaview Park, Leysdown –On Sea. Interested in Park Life then take a look at these fully equipped homes. Including Double Glazing & Central Heating, fridge, Washing machine etc,

From: For the best caravan deals Contact our Seaview Sales Office Now on 01795 510275 or visit at Seaview Park ,Warden Bay Road, Leysdown-On-Sea Kent, ME12 4NB

18 Mid Kent Living

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Mid Kent Living 19

Hand-picked events from the editor French musicians travelling to Sandwich, backed up by local musicians playing Frenchthemed sets on an outdoor stage.

For more information go to www.sandwichevents.org.uk.

June June 1 Platinum Jubilee Afternoon Tea Kent MS Therapy Centre, Canterbury

There will be a raffle and tombola as well as entertainment from local musicians. Feel free to dress up in red, white and blue. The event will be held from 2pm to 4.30pm.

Enjoy a coffee and a scone.

Tickets are £7.50 for adults and £2.50 for children. Contact fundraising@kentmstc.org to find out more.

June 11 Delphinium Festival Godinton House & Gardens, Ashford

A celebration of the fabulous delphinium collection in the Walled Garden. The Delphinium Society members will be on hand to offer expert advice and have delphiniums for sale 1pm until 4pm.

To book tickets go to www.godinton.digitickets. co.uk/tickets.

June 11 American Speedfest Brands Hatch, West Kingsdown

June 4 Platinum Jubilee Medway River Pageant Sun Pier, Chatham FREE

Calling all vessel owners – historic, commercial and recreational. Featuring a parade from the lower reaches up to Sun Pier and culminating with ‘The Great Cacophony’ at 3.30pm.

Entertainment will focus along the waterfront, where there will be food stalls, live music, craft stalls from 12pm. The crews will come ashore to continue the celebrations on dry land.

June 4 & 5 Platinum Jubilee Family Fun Weekender

The supersized summer spectacular will be bigger and better than ever for its ninth running in 2022, the first with a full crowd since 2019, with huge car displays and a wealth of off-track activities aimed at individuals of all ages.

June 11 – 12 Big 7 Scooter Rally The Hop Farm, Tonbridge

This rocking weekend is jammed packed full of entertainment for all bike enthusiasts. As always, there will be a dealers market, tattooist, the Dyno, a ridden custom show and trophies, and the Big 7 Ride Out through the Garden of England. Weekend tickets cost £22.25.

Reuthe's, Sevenoaks

June 11 Le Weekend

Celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee with not one, not two, but three great events. The ancient woodland will be transformed into an 11-acre beer garden. Note these are separate events and each event is ticketed.

For more information go to www.reuthes.com/pages/ reuthes-platinum-jubileefamily-fun-weekender

Quay Green, Sandwich

20 Mid Kent Living

FREE

An authentic French market with free outdoor concerts and street dancing. Products range from foods and spices and soaps to clothes, rugs and leather goods. A lively street scene includes music and dance, with visiting

June 12 Wing Walk Headcorn Aerodrome, Ashford

Get ready to soar through the skies whilst helping local children and their families live life as fully as possible for the time they have left together.

With breath-taking 130mph top speeds and stunning views, nothing will bring you closer to the skies than a wing walk.

To book go to www.chestnuttree-house.org.uk.

June 15 Jazz in the summer garden Godinton House & Gardens, Ashford

Join the Metro Vipers in the Walled Garden, the trio that packs a punch playing a mix of Gypsy Jazz, Swing and Latin with some Rock ‘n’ Roll thrown in for good measure.

An evening of music to enjoy - remember to put together a delicious picnic and bring a chair or a rug. Support the wonderful work of St John Ambulance. Picnics from 6pm, performance from 7pm.

Tickets are £15. To book go to www.godinton.digitickets. co.uk/tickets.

June 25 – 26 Movie Magic The Brook Theatre, Chatham

Island Dance will be performing ballet, tap, modern, jazz, musical theatre, street and contemporary dance to some favourite movie tracks. Tickets cost £13. The show starts at 7pm. To book go to www.medwayticketslive. co.uk/event/movie-magic.

June 25 Rhythm in Oaks Little Elses, Sevenoaks

This boutique, family-friendly festival will be packed full of fun summer vibes. Grab a spot and soak up the music by the main stage then relax the afternoon away surrounded by the picturesque countryside.

Book tickets at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

June 26 Martha’s Music on the Farm The Dairy, Deal

Enjoy this great day out with family and friends whilst being entertained by a variety of excellent local musicians. Bring a picnic or enjoy food and drink from one of the on-site vendors and bars. Call 01304 610448 to book.

Tickets cost £12 per adult and £6 for children.

June 24 - 26 Foodies Festival Mote Park, Maidstone

Watch MasterChef champions, Michelin-starred and top local chefs cook their signature summer recipes. See finalist Tony Rodd cooking live, alongside 2010 winner Dhruv Baker, 2020 finalist Sandy Tang, and 2020 winner Thomas Frake. Local favourite Patrick Hill shows off the skills that have earned Thackeray’s in Tunbridge Wells three AA Rosettes. Learn how to make show-stopping cakes in The Cake & Bake Theatre with expert bakers. Great British Bake-Off stars will share their best baking hints and tips live on stage with easy to make recipes that are as delicious to look at as they are to eat.

The event will run from noon to 9pm on Friday and 11am to 9pm on Saturday and Sunday. To buy tickets go to www.foodies.seetickets.com/tour/foodies-festival.

Title

UPCOMING EVENTS IN MAIDSTONE

Free Dino Egg Trail

2nd – 16th April

Meet the Dinosaurs

9th April

Street Theatre: Tape That

16th April

The Wine Weekend is a one-day celebration of viticulture featuring Kent’s top vineyards, wineries, food, produce and businesses. Hosted in the historic Sessions House, the County Hall of Kent, Maidstone Town Centre are delighted to welcome you to our county town, in the heart of the North Downs, for this wonderful occasion.

Tickets on sale now!

WIN! A luxury hamper!

Scan the QR code for your chance to win and to keep up-to-date with The Wine Weekend!

Saturday 16th July 2022 Follow us on social media to keep up-to-date on events in Maidstone! @onemaidstone

@onemaidstone

@OneMaidstoneKent Mid Kent Living 21

Red Hill Farm Estate Vineyard

Introducing Kent's Newest

WEDDING VENUE

Introducing Kent’s newest, fully inclusive wedding and event venue.

Situated in the heart of Kent, Redhill Farm Estates Vineyard offers a stunning location with unrivaled views of the beautiful Kent country side.

If you are looking for a private country style wedding in a stunning location knowing that everything is taken care of for you then look no further.

You’ll be drinking Redhill farm Estate’s award-winning wines, eating delicious, freshly cooked food, locally sourced by our trained chefs.

We take the stress of organising all the event and catering elements of your big day away from you.

You can be comfortable in the knowledge that everything is in place and meticulously organised to give you a truly special day to remember.

Dates available throughout 2022 venue also available 7 days a week.

Book now!! 01622 470027 www.gardenofenglandeventhire.co.uk

22 Mid Kent Living

Traditional churches, manor houses, a marquee on the lawn, castle or an intimate restaurant all make the perfect wedding venue depending on the size of your wedding party and most importantly your budget.

Mid-week ceremonies have become increasingly popular and some venues have special weekday rates and packages.

In these eco-conscious times, many couples are looking at ways to host their big day responsibly. Venues are becoming greener and more sustainable, with many providing in-house catering and using only fresh locally sourced produce. They work with local suppliers to be more eco-friendly by reducing transport miles. One of the new wedding trends for 2022 is for couples to ‘upcycle’.

This can be gifting wedding flowers to good causes, going plastic-free on your big day or planting a tree instead of giving wedding favours.

07734 262 570 01622 910039 emma@arrangingflowers.co.uk www.arrangingflowers.co.uk

As wedding and event flower specialists we pride ourselves in designing stunning bespoke flower décor packages that are as individual as you are, we can create something spectacular to suit all styles from vintage to contemporary modern, we use our skill and experience to help you get the best from your budget.

Simple locally-sourced, nature-inspired decor with plenty of luscious greenery is also in keeping with the latest trends when it comes to wedding decor this season.

With a vast array of wedding venues to choose from in the heart of Kent, you could be spoilt for choice.

Come and experience the riverside tranquillity and fascinating history of Aylesford Priory For enquiries call 01622 717 272 Email enquiry@thefriars.org.uk Visit our website www.thefriars.org.uk

Arrangements of Boughton Monchelsea

@arrangements70

The Friars at Aylesford, near Maidstone is one of Kent’s hidden treasures and in the last decade has become a popular element of the county.

Visit us for conference room hire, guest accommodation, weddings and exquisite home-made cuisine in our Pilgrims’ Hall and Tea Room. With easy access to London and the Euro tunnel terminal this venue is perfect for all.

Mid Kent Living 23

Title Days Out Great

Welcome to buffalo country When the Kent Wildflife Trust advertised for a pair of ‘bison rangers’, it received 1,200 applications. Doug Kempster takes up the story and examines the work of the influential charity…

T

hey wouldn’t look out of place ranging over the Great Plains with bands of Sioux, Arapaho or Cheyenne in tow.

But these European cousins of the legendary North American bison are about to set up home in woods near Canterbury.

In a ground-breaking project costing more than £1million, conservationists are on the verge of releasing four of the mighty mammals - the Continent’s largest - into the wild.

And, if all goes to plan, they hope the bull and three females will establish a herd to settle in 500 of the 2,500 acres of Blean woodland

24 Mid Kent Living

owned by Kent Wildlife Trust (KWT).

The charity says the bison are 'peaceful animals' despite growing up to three metres in length, weighing 300 to 1,000 kilos and being capable of reaching speeds of up to 35mph.

The species has boosted wildlife diversity in North European forests by clearing spaces for a wide variety of plants and animals when it grazes, forages and tramples through the undergrowth.

KWT and its project partner, The Wildwood Trust, are confident the bison’s introduction will do the same in Kent.

Great DaysTitle Out

Sandwich and Pegwell Bay About: Kent Wildlife Trust’s largest

reserve. It’s of international importance for its bird population.

Flora/fauna: Nightingales and cuckoos in

the spring, ringed plover in the summer, seals in the winter.

Size: 615 hectares.

Facilities: Toilets, picnic site, outdoor play area.

Open: All year round.

Hothfield Heathlands About: The site contains the county’s last

In addition, the two charities hope the new arrivals will be crowd-pullers as the project fires the public’s imagination.

Certainly, when a job vacancy for two bison rangers to look after the beasts was advertised last year, it attracted 1,200 applicants from around the world.

And public awareness, says KWT, is crucial in its mission to conserve wildlife through action and education.

Today the trust, which has its roots in the 1950s, has tens of thousands of members and a thousand volunteers. It manages over 9,000 acres of the county across more than 80 different sites and nature reserves.

houses to organising wildlife safaris.

The bison, which will literally be the trust’s biggest attraction, are due to arrive in April.

They will be quarantined in a special enclosure in Blean Woods before being released into their permanent habitat around a month later.

The animals aren't native to this country but are closely related to the now-extinct forest bison that roamed parts of Britain during the Pleistocene period more than 11,700 years ago.

The newcomers will share an environment already inhabited by nightingales, a variety of bat species and rare Konik ponies.

And KWT believes members of the public lucky enough to see the bison, could also be spotting calves in the ancient woodland as early as next year.

If monster cattle aren’t your thing, the trust has plenty of other habitats to guarantee a great day out. Here are a few:

‘The two charities hope the new arrivals will be crowd-pullers…’

It also runs three, free-to-enter visitor centres in Maidstone, Romney Marsh and Sevenoaks, which stage activity and education days, teaching skills as diverse as making seed bombs and building hedgehog

Kent Wildlife Trust (KWT) is the leading conservation charity covering Kent and Medway, established in 1958.

KWT runs more than 60 nature reserves covering approximately 7,500 acres of land as well as 55 miles of roadside nature reserve ground. It also has visitor centres at Tyland Barn (near Maidstone), Romney Marsh, and the Jeffery Harrison

four valley bogs and one of its few remaining fragments of open heath.

Flora/fauna: Yellowhammers, white throats and willow warblers, green tiger beetles, round leaved sundew and heath spotted orchids.

Size: 86 hectares.

Facilities: Four waymarked paths.

Open: All year round.

Lydden Temple Ewell About: Grassland slopes of the edge of Dover.

Flora/fauna: May to August for butterflies

like the Adonis blue and silver-spotted skipper. Also home to the wart-biter cricket.

Size: 90 hectares.

Facilities: Car park behind the old George and Dragon pub.

Open: All year round.

Centre in Sevenoaks.

The influential conservation body KWT boasts over 31,000 members and supporters, provide a flourishing education programme, an active network of local groups and a thousand volunteers.

More information:

www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Mid Kent Living 25

Hello Spring

Visit Newnham Court Shopping Village and explore some of the fresh ideas they have for you, your home and garden this Spring AHM Installations Bricks Coffee House Charterwood Mobility Coffee Corner Restaurant Cotswold Outdoor/ Runners Need Edinburgh Woollen Mill FineLine Windows, Doors & Conservatories

Notcutts Garden Centre Notcutts have everything you need for your home and garden this Spring. With an extensive range of top-quality plants, garden furniture and gardening equipment.

Inside you will find a fantastic selection of homeware and gifts, as well as a large range of wildlife and pet supplies.

Gymfinity Kids Johnsons Garden Buildings Klass Collection Maidenhead Aquatics Noble House Chinese Restaurant & Takeaway Notcutts Garden Centre Notcutts Home and Gift Shop Pavers Pennies Day Nursery Pure Beauty Essentials Pure Hairdressing Shopmobility Simmonds Schoolwear & Sports Wear Sussex Beds Timber Jacks Fencing The Butcher of Brogdale Trend Transformations

Ample free customer parking 26 Mid Kent Living

Just off Junction 7 of the M20 at Maidstone

Maidenhead Aquatics Specialising in livestock, plants and products for fishkeeping in aquariums and ponds.

Johnsons Garden Buildings Transform your garden for Spring.

A large selection of garden buildings, summer houses and garden offices, plus a fantastic range of spas and hot tubs.

Available to view here at the Newnham Court Shopping Village

Sussex Beds Everything you need for a great night’s sleep The showroom has a huge selection of mattresses, divan beds, bed frames, divan headboards, children’s beds and mattress disposal.

Sussex Beds provide a full environmentally friendly eco disposal service.

Chaterwood Mobility A huge selection of rise and recline chairs, scooters, stairlifts, and much more.

AHM Installations Safer and affordable bathing solutions Walk in baths, showers, wet rooms and smart toilets for those with limited mobility.

Fineline Windows, Doors and Conservatories Where your home matters.

A wide range of products to transform your home.

Coming soon...

The Butcher of Brogdale Award winning family butchers following traditional principles to provide the best tasting quality meat.

Windows, doors and conservatories.

Visit our website

www.newnhamcourt.co.uk

MONDAY TO SATURDAY 9:00AM TO 5:00PM SUNDAY Mid Kent Living 27

Tourist Profile

Inside

Turner

Contemporary Overlooking a stormy sea and hitting global headlines, Turner Contemporary could not be in a more idyllic location…

A

s the name suggests, Turner Contemporary bridges the gap between conventional and modern art.

The striking, world-class gallery has strong connections to artist JMW Turner, who was famous for his seascape pieces.

Designed by acclaimed architect David Chipperfield, the building now boasts a range of local artworks and must-see exhibitions.

One of its charms is that most exhibits are naturally lit from light beaming in from its sea-shore location.

Margate’s little seaside roads and alleys, lined with vintage shops and quirky cafes, has made this a tick on the list of any visiting art-tourists.

28 Mid Kent Living

The original idea to create a space to commemorate Turner’s visits to Margate came from local resident John Crofts almost 30 years ago, but he died before seeing his dreams come to life.

The Turner Contemporary building was designed to be open to the local community by placing art as close as possible to the front entrance so that it was visible from the streets.

This spring and summer, the gallery will see its largest solo exhibition to date, by British Ghanaian artist Larry Achiampong, whose new work will continue his exploration of race and history.

Displayed across Turner Contemporary’s first floor galleries, the exhibition will include

WayFinder, an ambitious new film and sculptural installation, alongside a display of pictures by JMW Turner hand-picked by Achiampong.

A Turner Contemporary spokesman says: “Our work goes beyond showcasing exhibitions, to driving the social and economic regeneration of Margate and transforming lives in one of the most deprived areas of the UK. “Since we opened, Turner Contemporary has welcomed more than 3.5million visits, put over £70million back into the Kent economy and connected with thousands of people from the local community through our world class programme.”

Entry to the gallery (and all exhibitions) is free.

Tourist Profile

Turner’s life •

Turner (1775-1851) first lived in Margate, aged 11, staying with an uncle who was a fishmonger in the town.

•

The young Turner attended the Thomas Coleman’s School on the corner of Love Lane and Hawley Street in Margate Old Town from 1785-1788.

•

One of Turner’s earliest surviving works is a sketch of a Margate street, with boats in the sea beyond.

•

In 1796, aged 21, Turner returned to Margate to sketch and paint, honing his skills as an artist.

•

On most Saturdays during 1827, Turner would travel to Margate to

escape London. He came by sea and stayed with Sophia Booth at her guest house in Cold Harbour with direct views overlooking the sea and Margate’s unique skies. John Ruskin, a leading English art critic of the Victorian era who defended Turner’s work, stated that “Where therefore, and in this very town of Margate, Turner lived, when he chose to be quit of London, and yet not to travel”.

•

Turner lived at Sophia Booth’s house between 1827 and 1847. After Sophia’s husband died in 1833, Turner lived at her guesthouse, becoming Sophia’s long-term companion. Turner Contemporary is situated on the same site as Mrs Booth’s guest house.

10 years TURNER Contemporary is so much more than just the building, which features on the £20 note.

Over the past 10 years, the worldfamous gallery has exhibited the work of over 2,000 artists.

Many people have grown up with the gallery and the learning and educational opportunities it provides. More than 100,000 local children and young people have worked with the gallery since it opened in 2011.

A spokesman said: “Margate has changed enormously in the last decade, but we still have lots to do to ensure that the work of the gallery has real impact for everyone – particularly after the last couple years.”

JMW Turner and Margate There is no denying Joseph Mallord William Turner loved Margate.

He first visited the seaside town when his parents sent him to school in Love Lane at the age of 11.

After returning to sketch the town in his early 20s he became a regular visitor, and more than 100 of his future works were inspired by the East Kent coast.

According to Art Fund, it was the distinctive quality of light in this part of Kent that drew Turner back. He had remarked to the influential art critic John Ruskin that “the skies over Thanet are the loveliest in all Europe”.

Though he is best known for his works in oil, Turner is also considered one of the founders of English watercolour landscape painting. His famous works include Dido Building Carthage (1815), The Grand Canal, Venice (1835), Peace - Burial at Sea (1842) and Rain, Steam and Speed (1844).

Donate Every donation makes a difference. Entry to Turner Contemporary is free so to help the gallery continue its work go to www.turnercontemporary.org Mid Kent Living 29

Theatre

Drummers keep banging on The Kakatsitsi Drummers Hazlitt Theatre, Maidstone

T

he Kakatsitsi Drummers, from southern Ghana, are renowned for their "neo-traditional, funky, groovy and trancey" style of drumming and they’re coming to the Hazlitt Theatre in May. But it won't be quiet.

The members have their roots in the fishing community of Jamestown, a part of Accra with strong British colonial links.

Now Ghana, a democracy with 31 million inhabitants and a rich ancient history, brings its cultural heritage to British audiences to increasingly enthusiastic acclaim.

An established hit on the festival and carnival circuit, the Kakatsitsi players are equally at home in village halls and smaller theatres like the Hazlitt, in the beating heart of Maidstone's night-time economy in Earl Street.

If ever there was a tonic to treat postpandemic stir craziness, it could be the singing and dancing of this talented and committed group of musicians and singers.

But they are not tied to their traditional roots. They have worked with electronica producers and DJs, as well as Celtic musicians on various fusion shows and releases, including a performance with The Orb on the West-Holts Stage at Glastonbury Festival in 2013.

Kakatsitsi’s music combines traditional drumming grooves played on a wide variety of West African drums with tradition chants

sung in six-part harmony, the quality of which sets them above most dance-led traditional African groups.

Hazlitt Theatre, Earl Street, Maidstone, May 24, 7.30pm. Tickets £17 (£15 concessions).

Go to www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/ Hazlitt-Theatre

Royal Opera House Live: Swan Lake Folkestone Quarterhouse WITH a venue of limited size, the people behind the Quarterhouse in Folkestone, nuzzled into the blossoming Creative Quarter, have had to get creative over the years in finding ways to make the place pay its way.

The screening of the Royal Opera House's Swan Lake is a case in point. At three hours and 20 minutes long (with two intervals), this is the real deal shown on a big screen in a small auditorium.

The classic fairy tale represents the wellworn story of a battle between good and evil, and the attempt by love to conquer all.

The magic of the lakes, forests and palaces is brought to life with glittering designs by John Macfarlane and a sublime score by Tchaikovsky.

According to the blurb: "This classic of the repertory is testament to the late choreographer Liam Scarlett’s abiding love of classicism and innate musicality, which shine through this production."

Well, you can’t argue with that.

Folkestone Quarterhouse, Tontine Street, Folkestone, May 19, 7.15pm. Tickets £15 (£14.00 concessions & members). Go to boxoffice@creativefolkestone.org.uk

30 Mid Kent Living

Dara O Briain: So, Where Were We? Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury

Dara O Briain has just turned 50, but age has not buffed the sharp edges of the Irish comic's material. Adopted and brought up in County Wicklow, he attended University College Dublin, one of the country's better seats of learning.

Although he drifted into presenting children's TV on the state broadcaster, RTE, he soon began to perform stand-up comedy.

This was something of a difficult baptism, as he once recalled: "I did the (long) trip from Dublin to Donegal to play to six people, then I turned round and drove home again."

Although he enjoyed successful stints in the UK and at the Edinburgh Festival, he raced to fame presenting Mock the Week for the BBC. He's on tour this year with "So, Where Were We?", a sort of post COVID-19 nod to the unwanted hiatus suffered by the world of live theatre performances.

His last tour saw him perform 180 times all over the globe, at the end of which, in March 2020, he declared he was more than ready for a break. He certainly got his wish.

Dara's people declare: "He would now like to apologise for saying that and will never wish for anything like that again.

“Yes, he’s back on tour, and he will never stop again, because that’s clearly what caused all this trouble ... and because he’s so giddy to be back in front of a crowd."

Warning: there is likely to be some swearing and it may be unsuitable for under 14s.

The Marlowe Theatre, The Friars, Canterbury, May 8, 7.30pm. Tickets £25.50.

Go to www.marlowetheatre.com

Mon 11th Apr Sun 27th Feb

Tues 19th Apr

Tues 12th Apr Basil Brush Unleashed

Chris McCausland

Fri 22nd Apr

Sun 1st May

Tue 3rd May

Thur 5th May

Sun 8th May

Thurs 12th May

Fri 13th May

Sat 24th May

True Gold - The Spandau Ballet Experience

Kakatsitsi Drummers

Reginald D Hunter

Fri 6th May

MAGICAL BONES

Thur 19th May

Fri 20th May

Tue 24th May

Wed 25th May

Sun 15th May

Thur 26 May

Mid Kent Living 31

Good Food

The big swap P

hilippe Laché has swapped central London for Maidstone's burgeoning night-time heartland.

He has taken over the Market House in Earl Street after moving to Kent from the capital following the end of last year’s COVID-19 lockdown.

He joined Faversham-based brewer and pub company, Shepherd Neame, from the Inception Group, where he had launched two Bunga Bunga branches before moving to their Mr Fogg’s brand at Mr Fogg’s Tavern and Gin Parlour in 2018; picking up the award for General Manager of the Year in 2018, and being responsible for a turnover of £4.2 million at Mr Fogg’s Residence in Mayfair.

But despite this success, he still had aspirations to run a traditional English pub.

French-born Philippe, 36, said: “I have lots of experience within the hospitality industry,

M

ereworth Wines has undergone a re-branding of all of its range of sparkling vintages and gins.

The producer was forced by the pandemic to redesign its own labels.

Owner William Boscawen said: “The only option available to us when we released our first vintage at the start of a global pandemic was to print our original labels ourselves, so the elegant simplicity of our new branding really is a step up.”

The new branding brings the business's product range into alignment.

The winery has also branched out into tours, tastings and dining experiences.

Winemaker Scott Gebbie said: “Our 2021

but what I hadn’t tried was running a pub. I wanted to experience what it was like to run a traditional English pub.

“For me, there is nothing better than having someone there at the bar for you, seeing a smile and feeling there is someone there for Philippe Laché is General Manager at the Market House you – hospitality is all about meeting people.”

The historic pub, recently which runs from Thursday, April 28 to Bank refurbished, is located opposite the Hazlitt Holiday Monday, May 2.

Theatre in Earl Street and next to the Philippe said: "It is a proper pub. It has shopping centre. good food and good drink. With the live The venue hosts live music on Friday and music, I do still have the rush and the Saturday nights from 9.30pm and acoustic excitement. So here is the perfect balance sets from 5.30pm on Sundays. It will also and five minutes out of Maidstone and I am be one of the venues hosting bands for in the countryside. I have the buzz and the the upcoming Maidstone Fringe Festival, team is great.”

harvest was our most difficult yet but has taught us that our hard work throughout the year, maintaining the vineyard with meticulous care and attention, pays off, allowing us to harvest a great crop despite the unfavourable weather.”

The business also employed machine harvesting which got the grapes to the presses in record time.

Mr Boscawen added: “We're a small team...each time one of you walks through the door, places an order, tells us how much you’ve loved our drinks, or recommends us to someone else - it means the world to us.

"We hope to see you up at the winery very soon and we can’t wait to share with you all the plans we have in the pipeline.”

Mereworth Rebranding

A

Maidstone pub is currently undergoing a £2m refurbishment.

It will be part of Elite Pubs’ must-see venues and sister restaurants. The Wishful Thinker, previously known as The White Horse in Lenham Road, Sandway, will soon become home to 15 bedrooms, a large dining room, bar, outdoor terrace, and garden.

The building, nicknamed as a ‘sleepover foodie pub’, is due to reopen in autumn this year.

Elite pubs

32 Mid Kent Living

Squids in

T

he Giggling Squid Thai food outlet is set to open in Earl Street, Maidstone, this spring some seven years after the idea was first mooted. The restaurant already has other venues in Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks and its arrival was first planned in 2015 but it scheduled premises went to another brand. Since then, a planned branch of the chain was put back until 2022 because of the pandemic.

The Redstart Inn is a welcoming pub in Barming, serving fabulous meals all week, lunchtime and evenings.

• Family friendly • Freshly cooked food • • Wonderful play area • • Covered seating area in garden •

The Yeoman Mediterranean bar and restaurant is set in the heart of Bearsted, offering great food and drink.

SERVING FOOD

BAR OPEN ALL DAY

Tuesday - Friday 12:00 - 14:30 18:00 - 22:30 Saturday & Sunday 12:00 - 22:30

Tuesday - Sunday 12:00 - 22:30

www.yeomanbearsted.co.uk

YEOMAN GARDEN PIZZA Tuesday - Sunday 14:00 - 21:00

01622 727001

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70 North Street, Barming

For pizza orders please call 01622 739 370

Takeaway and Delivery

139 Ashford Road Bearsted ME14 4BT

PEPPERBOX INN

Terrace garden, heated marquee & Indoor dining reservations Now open Visit our charming pub situated in beautiful countryside with outstanding views of the Weald of Kent Restaurant menu and traditional pub food served lunch times and evenings Sunday Lunches from £14 per person Served 12 noon - 3pm Outside terrace | Ample parking Walkers & Riders welcome Summer Opening Times: Tuesday to Saturday from 11.30am - 3pm | 6pm - 10pm Food Served: Lunch 12noon - 2pm Evening 6pm - 9pm Sunday Lunches: 12noon - 3pm Closed Sunday Evenings Windmill Hill, Harrietsham, Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1LP 01622842558 | www.thepepperboxinn.co.uk Mid Kent Living 33

Good Food

Blessed are the cheesemakers Cheesemaking in Kent is now a burgeoning business, using milk from cows, sheep and goats. For the cheesemakers, it is also a personal passion, as George Ward and Simon Finlay discovered...

C

heesemaking is seen in Egyptian tomb drawings and mentioned in ancient Greek literature.

The craft has its origins among nomadic herdsmen, who stored milk in vessels made from sheep's and goats' stomachs. Because their stomach contained lactic acid, bacteria, and naturally-occurring rennet, the milk would ferment and coagulate.

Most cheese today comes from cows but, in ancient times, goats would have been preferred as they were smaller, easier to herd and ate less.

Most people will know that milk makes cheese – but how does it go from the cow to the shelf?

Firstly, the cattle must be milked and the liquid pasteurised before bacteria is added to get the process going.

34 Mid Kent Living

By adding rennet, which is a complex set of enzymes found in the stomachs of ruminant animals, curdles the milk to create curds and whey.

The liquid whey is drained off while the curd is formed into moulds and stored to mature.

Camembert requires gentle curd treatment where the curds drain by gravity.

In contrast, cheddar curds are "scalded" at a high temperature, before cooling and cut into large blocks which are stacked and turned in a process called “cheddaring”.

Kentish cheeses are now rated as highly as some French classics, even by top sommeliers, and complement the burgeoning reputation of English wines.

Good Food

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very week since Jane Bowyer founded Cheesemakers of Canterbury in 2007, she or one of her team has driven to just one address - Debden Farm, Petham, to buy her milk.

There the Castles have tended dairy cattle for generations. Now the milk is taken just seven miles up the steep, narrow valleys of the Downs, to Hastingleigh, to be turned into the most luscious soft cheeses. At Hastingleigh, her team make the oozing brie and the soft and creamy camembert.

Jane has always fostered long-term local links like these. Another is with Debbie Vernon, of Ellie’s Dairy, whose tenderly-spoiled goats provide much of the milk for Jane’s goat cheeses.

Hard cheeses are made at the main dairy at Dargate, helped by a microclimate which ensures greater rainfall and lush grasses.

Jane says: “You can’t take shortcuts making great cheese, and similarly, you can’t make a sustainable business by taking shortcuts with your neighbours and customers.” www.cheesemakersofcanterbury.co.uk

The Blackwoods Cheese Company's Dave Holton gets his supply of milk straight from the cow to his van and thence to the dairy vats at Chiddingstone. It's a short supply chain.

He jokes: “It doesn’t even have time to cool down. All we do is add the cheese starter cultures and the cheesemaking process begins – we don’t have to apply heat to get things going. It is one of the many lovely things about being here.”

The cows belong to a small-scale organic farmer on the same country estate as the dairy.

Dave sells his products at the ever-sotrendy Borough Market in London. www.blackwoodscheesecompany.co.uk

Dave Holton (Picture by Joseph Fox)

Robin Betts' grandfather first started farming near Offham, setting up a dairy immediately after WWII. But it wasn't until 2000 that he and his wife Carla hit on the idea of making cheese.

Six years later, to the couple's astonishment, a trial batch of their very first product, Winterdale Shaw, won a bronze award in the World Cheese Awards.

The Winterdale cheese dairy is housed in a traditional oak-framed barn at the head of a picturesque valley. It is where Robin and his siblings grew up - an idyll in the summer, but harsh in the winter, with winds funnelled up the valley.

But the chalky soil produces a unique “terroir” for the farm's 100 Friesian Holstein cows. The animals make a matured, hard cheese so good that even top people’s store Fortnum & Mason stock it. www.winterdale.co.uk

Lunch Wed – Fri 12:30-14:30 Saturday – All Day

Dinner Tue – Sat 17:30 – 20:45 Sunday Roast 12:00 – 17:30 Dog Friendly, Parking, Local Beers, Ales, Wines and Spirits.

The Butchers Block 65-67 Church Street, Burham, Rochester, ME1 3SB 01634 7 86626 enquiries@thebutchersblockpub.co.uk www.thebutchersblockpub.co.uk

We support our local Kent Vineyards & distilleries by offering a The Butchers Block

thebutchersblock_pub

The Butchers Block Pub & Restaurant

Mid Kent Living 35

Award winning care homes

Our highly trained care home teams are specialists in residential, nursing, dementia and respite care. With some of the highest care ratings in the UK, we’re trusted to help you and your family at every step of your journey.

If you’re considering permanent or respite care for yourself or a loved one, call 0333 363 7667 to arrange a tour or one-to-one chat, or visit careuk.com

Trusted to care.

Our care homes in Kent Invicta Court, Weavering Montfort Manor, Ashford Weald Heights, Sevenoaks 36 Mid Kent Living

Senior Living Title

Senior Living

Choosing the right mobility scooter There are many things to consider when choosing a mobility scooter – not just the colour…

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he mobility scooter has been one of the greatest developments in assistance equipment for people who have restricted movement.

The freedom to go anywhere at any time can be a real boost to independence as well as mental wellbeing, whether it is shopping, visiting friends or going off on holiday.

From compact travel scooters to long-range road vehicles, a mobility scooter can have a huge impact on quality of life.

A mobility scooter is a big investment, and a practical one for those with limited movement, so it’s important to understand which model is right for you.

The rst thing to consider is how much room you have to store your scooter.

Full-sized scooters can be quite large and should generally be kept indoors to maintain the condition of the batteries.

While people do often keep scooters outside, cold (and excessively hot) temperatures are bad for battery life, while exposure to the elements will degrade the scooter.

It is important to think about the types of journeys you plan to make, where you will store your scooter, your weight and your budget.

Folding scooters

Pavement scooters

Travel scooters

Class­3 scooters

These scooters feature automatic folding frames, so there is no need for manual dismantling. The 4mph smaller scooters fold into a compact, easy­ to­store size with the press of a button or click of a key fob, making them perfect for use on public transport.

Travel mobility scooters can be taken apart for easy storage and transportation in a car boot. Light­ weight and portable, these 4mph small scooters are great for taking on holiday or for short trips to the shop.

Pavement mobility scooters are generally larger scooters than travel and folding, but also travel at 4mph. They have larger batteries, giving a longer travel range, alongside many features such as sus­ pension systems and padded seats for more com­ fort when riding.

Road legal Class­3 mobility scooters, which do from 6­8mph, offer more performance and are suited for long distances, with a maximum speed of 8mph. They do not require a driving licence, al­ though they must be registered with the DVLA.

Residential Care Home For The Elderly in Headcorn, Kent We provide both long term accommodation and short respite stays Small friendly residential care home that can offer 24 hour care that is provided by fully trained staff lead by registered manager, Donna Bratton.

Yew Tree House has been a privatley run home for over 30 years

All rooms are comfortable and fully furnished with the opportunity to personalise.

We can also offer day care, where we have a bathing service and you can see our visiting hairdresser and chiropodist.

As the home is situated in the centre of Headcorn our residents have close access to lacal churches, dentist, doctors surgery, shops and public transport.

9 Station Road, Headcorn, Ashford, Kent TN27 9SB T: 01622 890 112 E:yth@mail.org

yewtree-carehome.co.uk Mid Kent Living 37

We all need a will – make sure it is the right will

For home owning couples (married or not) there is a lot you can do with your wills to ensure that your assets are protected and are passed on correctly after one or both of you die.

Whether you own your home as Beneficial Joint Tenants or as Tenants in Common can make a big difference.

Your Title Deeds do not use either of these phrases so you might need some help to check what applies to you.

For older couples Tenants in Common is often better. You also need to make sure your wills are up to date to reflect that. Camrass Wills are professional will writers and offer a comprehensive service.

Lasting Powers of Attorney

These are easy to overlook but they are just as important as wills and they are not just for ‘old people’! Read the Heather Bateman story on the Camrass Wills’ website to get a real-life account of what can happen if you don’t have powers of attorney in place. The easiest way to think about them is that they are a bit like house insurance. You hope and expect never to use them but if something happens and you don’t have them, it is very difficult for those trying to deal with things for you.

Peter Camrass

Wills | Probate | Powers of attorney Phone: 01622 720985 For a free initial consultation.

Home visits available. All fees agreed before you proceed. www.camrasswills.co.uk

Gullands Solicitors For all your personal law needs

Book Now 01622 689 700 Drafting and updating Wills Estate Administration Probate Powers of Attorney Notarial Services Trusts and Inheritance Tax planning

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38 Mid Kent Living

26/03/2021 13:42

Equity Release: -

Top tips from your local expert Newspaper and television advertising is encouraging Equity Release more than ever and with an increasing number of schemes available there is more choice and flexibility than there has been in the past.

Our local expert, Sarah Ferrell, is a great advocate of Equity Release, however as she says, “It is a transaction that will “last a lifetime” so careful consideration and good advice are needed” Sarah gives us her top tips when considering Equity Release:

of the funds is needed for a project in 12-18 months’ time, I might recommend an initial release with a future drawdown facility so as to reduce the effect of interest longer term.

3) Consider alternatives I have seen Equity release do a huge amount of good for a number of people, however it is not the right solution for everyone. I encourage my clients to also consider other ways of raising the funds, to make sure this is the right route for them.

5) Consider making payments of interest One of the things that has contributed to Equity Release having a “bad name” over the years is the roll-up of interest. If you have the means to pay, even a proportion of the interest during your lifetime I would more often than not recommend this as it protects the equity in your home – not just for those you leave behind but, more importantly, for your own benefit should you need more financial options later in life.

4) Involve a friend or family member If you have children/beneficiaries it is very likely that, at some point, your family will need to deal with the lifetime mortgage. If appropriate, I would recommend a conversation with family and would always welcome multi-generational meetings.

Sarah is happy to visit your home, chat on the telephone or meet via remote video conference and offers flexible times to suit her clients.

1) Get advice This is a lifetime financial decision. There are so many different plans available, so finding the right combination of features to suit your circumstances (both now and later in life) is of paramount importance.

It is the role of the adviser to make sure you understand all the costs, key points and restrictions that may affect you.

2) Carefully calculate how much you need and when you need it Any release comes with a cost and it is important that you do not release more than necessary. I always recommend my clients write a “shopping list” to accurately note how much they require and, importantly, how soon they need the money. If, for example, a proportion

For more information or a free initial consultation, please call Sarah on 01622 631372, 07789 007447 or e-mail her at sarah@ferrellfinancial.co.uk MORTGAGES

EQUITY RELEASE

RE-MORTGAGE

BUY-TO-LET

FIRST TIME BUYERS

This article is for information only and should not be construed as advice or a recommendation. You should always seek independent financial advice prior to taking any action. Equity Release can reduce the value of your estate and can affect your eligibility for means tested benefits

Mid Kent Living 39

Senior Living Title Senior Living

The benets of befriending Everyone needs other people, but not everyone has someone

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s people get older, they are more likely to start feeling lonely or isolated, but there is something that we can do.

Befriending services can make a huge difference to the lives of older people, offering companionship and checking in with them regularly about any concerns they may have.

A regular weekly chat with the same person provides the opportunity to have a “proper” conversation and to develop a new relationship.

Even if we have friends and family to talk to regularly, it is always good to talk to someone new, who may see things differently and offer a fresh perspective.

At the heart of befriending is an open-ended, ongoing relationship, but they can differ from “organic” friendships in that they are limited.

While befriending could be provided to anyone experiencing loneliness or social isolation, in practice it’s usually offered to people who would be unable to access other forms of support, like group activities.

It is often the last line of human contact, particularly for men, who tend to be under-represented in befriending schemes.

The results of befriending can be very signicant. Befriending often provides people with a

A regular weekly chat with the same person provides the opportunity to have a “proper” conversation and to develop a new relationship

new direction in life, opens up a range of activities and leads to increased self-esteem and selfcondence.

Befriending can also reduce the burden on other services, which people may use inappropriately as they seek social contact.

Find a local befriending service Kent Coast Volunteering Good Neighbours Project

The Good Neighbours Service is a volunteer befriending service aimed at reducing the feel­ ing of loneliness and isolation among older people in Dover, Thanet, Folkestone and Hythe. All their volunteers are officially vetted and trained, and look to help build lasting friendships through regular visits from the same volunteer.

Call 01304 367898 or email info@kcv.org.uk

SMILES Befriending Services – North West Kent

For over 35 years, SMILES has provided one­ to­one befriending for older people who are socially isolated, with weekly visits from a vol­ unteer. This befriending service is available to people living in the boroughs of Dartford and Gravesham, or the northern par­ ishes of Sevenoaks district, including Swanley and the surrounding villages.

Call 01322 272476 or visit www.nwkvolun­ teers.org.uk/befriending

Swale CVS – The Befriending Service

Swale CVS run a befriending service to provide one­to­one support for older people who are experiencing loneliness or isolation.

This service is only available to residents of Swale, but is completely free to use.

Call 01795 473828 or email louise.johnson@swalecvs.co.uk

West Kent Befriending Service

The West Kent Befriending Service is based at the Age UK Maidstone office and covers the whole of Maidstone and its surrounding vil­ lages. Its service is particularly appropriate for older people with dementia or with mental health problems.

Call 0800 0484668 or email befriending@ageukmaidstone.org.uk

40 Mid Kent Living

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Your Health

Your Hearing Ask the Expert We ask consultant audiologist aids?

Eilene Dyason from Buchanan Many people don’t realise they have Audiologists some key questions. a hearing problem. Others around them often get frustrated firstAre all hearing tests the same? the loud tv, being asked to repeat No. Often, a hearing test is just things or told they mumble. Having a screening test and may miss a hearing examination like the ones your problem. We spend an hour I conduct is not just a hearing testing your hearing and examining test. It is to check the health of the health of your ears using the the auditory system and advise on latest digital technologies. To make how best to look after it, whether sure everything is healthy and find that be wax removal or hearing a reason for any hearing loss. A aids. During the examination, we thorough hearing assessment is can demonstrate what hearing key to getting our hearing aids just aids sound like and tailor them right. We check more frequencies to individual needs so they will than a screening test which means be delighted with the result. your hearing aids can be tailored to your specific needs to give you If I can’t hear, do I have to have better hearing in all environments. hearing aids?

Not necessarily, the purpose of the My current hearing aids do not examination is to determine the work as I would like. Can you do cause of your hearing loss, and it better? may simply be you have a wax plug Almost definitely yes. Not only that needs removing. If hearing can we offer the latest hearing aids aids are required, it makes sense to which provide crisp, natural sound, wear them, not only because you brilliant speech understanding and will hear better, but if you don’t personalised noise cancellation, wear them, your speech recognition but I would also test your free- is likely to worsen faster because field hearing and speech in noise the nerves are not receiving the to ensure you get the best results stimulation they require. This from your hearing aids. You can damage is irreversible. Wearing also connect your hearing aids hearing aids helps to prevent this. to your Bluetooth phone or TV There are also other side effects to devices. They also use artificial not wearing hearing aids, such as intelligence to personalise your a higher risk of cognitive decline, hearing experience. slips and falls, memory problems and depression.

My partner is reluctant to admit they have a hearing problem. Aren’t hearing aids fiddly or What can I do to convince them uncomfy? to have a hearing test or hearing No, we can use a 3D scanner to

Eilene Dyason - Senior Consultant Audiologist

image your ear and ear canal to custom make the tips to fit in your ears. Rechargeable hearing aids remove the problem of tiny batteries. Hearing aids are so small and available in many colours, so they are also very discreet.

Can I have a hearing test even if I think I can hear?

Yes. Often people don’t realise they have a hearing loss in the early stages. We often have our eyes and teeth regularly checked to prevent future problems. Similarly, an extensive hearing examination is not just about finding problems. It gives your auditory health a complete check-up and gives us baseline measurements to compare to in the future.

Eilene provides comprehensive hearing tests at Buchanan Audiologists state-of-the-art hearing centre in Snodland.

Book your comprehensive hearing assessment by calling 01634 757307.

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The Shapemaster Studio at Hermitage Park Community Centre consists of power assisted exercise equipment which provides a ‘helping hand’ in a low impact, full-body workout circuit.

The equipment is great for a wide range of individuals, especially those with long term health conditions, mobility issues and disabilities. It is also great for individuals who are uncomfortable or anxious about the traditional gym environment. There is also a huge social element to the Shapemaster Studio with a free hot drink available after every session.

We offer membership for £25 per month, with unlimited visits during this time and no long term commitments.

Limited number of one month free trials available as part of Actively Involved.

If you are interested, please get in touch for a free trial and chat with the team.

Call 01622 427492 Visit www.hermitagepark.org

HermitageParkCommunityCentre 42 Mid Kent Living

Hermitage Park Community Centre, Allington, Maidstone, ME16 9FZ

Senior Living

Keep the ticker ticking over

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here is a saying in the acting world that one should never stand when one can sit, never sit when one can lie down such as are rigours of being on stage or set.

As we get older, the opposite becomes true. The last thing older people need to do is stop moving.

Finding something interesting to do at the same time makes it more of a pleasure than a chore. Here are four activities to get you off the sofa and into exercise: Yoga

Yoga is said to have its origins in northern India 5,000 years ago but has historical connections to Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism. It is seen as a glorious congress of mind, body and soul and no matter how fit anyone remains, the body does eventually slow down. More active, perhaps overlycompetitive, sports can be unappealing. Yoga improves flexibility, endurance and concentration.

Golf

Bowls

Lawn bowls may be a leisurely form of exercise, but it has both mental and physical benefits for older players. It subtly improves fitness, challenges coordination and hones skill levels.

Health professionals recommend the sport (yes, it is a competitive sport) because it is sociable and good for mental health, as well. It connects players to their communities, enhances a sense of belonging as well increasing confidence and selfesteem. There are plenty of indoor clubs around, too, especially in the winter months.

There are many gags about golf, but that it is 'a good walk spoiled' is probably as famous as they get.

But for the over-50s, it represents a bit more than a ramble round a park, intermittently hitting a white ball towards a small hole. Health experts say that it is a great pastime for anyone who needs to stay active but suffers from reduced muscle mass or arthritis. It can keep blood pressure normal and helps regulate pulmonary function. In addition, the golfing itself can help to sharpen coordination, use the brain and is a social, fun activity. If a full 18 holes is too much there are nine hole courses, like Leeds Castle, which can be booked on the day.

Swimming

Health researchers in the US found that regular and fairly intensive swimming substantially delayed the decline of such 'age markers' as blood pressure, muscle mass, blood chemistry and pulmonary function. It is a form of exercise that requires as much or as little effort as one wants to put in but it is very good for the body, requiring the use of many muscles, breathing techniques and some basic coordination.

Mid Kent Living 43

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44 Mid Kent Living

Mind, Body & Soul

Sit less and keep moving Tanith Brown, 52, partnership co-ordinator at the Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden, is a picture of health but it has hardly been plain sailing, as she explains….

Photography: Chris Lawson

How are you?

I am very well, thank you. I am so busy at the moment at the Big Cat Sanctuary – but, then again, I’m always busy. I had a hip replacement three weeks before we went into lockdown and I was furloughed from the sanctuary, so being cooped up was not natural for me. I need to keep moving. So, I started working behind the bar at the Black Horse in Thurnham just to keep my steps up.

How is your health generally?

Very good generally. Can’t complain. I have quite a history, though.

Have you ever had any major illnesses?

When I was 27, I was diagnosed with a pituitary tumour right there in the middle of the brain. The pituitary gland controls hormones so, whilst it was benign, the repercussions of the tumour on my health were significant, not least on my reproductive system.

It was uncertain I could have children.

So, it made me all the more determined to have a child. I’d got married and whilst the After 10 hours of pregnancy with Darcy (now in his early 20s) surgery, it causes you was problem-free, my marriage wasn’t and think about your own I got divorced when he was about two. I’ve brought Darcy up as a single mum and that mortality – you only means I have always had to work, which has get one shot, make it not been a problem. a good one…

When he was four, I booked into the London Clinic in Harley Street to have the tumour removed privately. I had been on drugs to try and shrink it but they made me feel terrible. It meant 10 hours of surgery. It causes you think about your own mortality – you only get one shot, make it a good one.

Do you take any medicines?

I take a drug for a diabetic condition related to the tumour problem and hormone replacement therapy for the same reason. It’s not an issue – just a couple of tablets at night.

Have you ever considered herbal remedies?

No, not as such. I’m not against them, either. But I take supplements every day – turmeric, vitamin D, vitamin B12, multi-vitamins/iron and biotin.

Ever needed an osteopath or chiropractor?

Yes, once – I went to see someone at Southcote in Maidstone. I had a bad back after I had Darcy. It just never seemed to get better, so I booked into see the osteopath and it worked and, thankfully, I have never had to go back.

What, if any, exercise do you take?

I do exercise. Before I had my hip replacement I used to run around Mote Park, which is near my home in Downswood, in Maidstone. To be honest, I hated doing it, but it did make me feel better afterwards.

These days, after the hip op I have to be careful of the stress I put on my load bearing joints. But I am always on the go and I do a lot of walking, including at work at the Big Cat Sanctuary (where I have been for 12 years), giving tours and the like. I am an outdoors type, definitely.

What are your vices?

I like a glass of wine or a G&T. I used to smoke but not anymore. I have been a vegetarian since I was 19 and vegan for a couple of years.

I long ago made the connection between animals and meat and food which made me very uncomfortable. When I was child, I hand reared a lamb. Maybe that was it. I grew up with animals all around me in Hollingbourne. I have few issues if farming is sustainable but intense livestock-rearing for meat is something I really do not like.

What is the best piece of health advice anyone has ever given you?

Not one thing, in particular. I suppose whoever told me to sit less and move more.

Would you like to live forever?

I don’t think so but there is still so much to do. The world is changing so much, though, and I am not sure I’d want to be around for it.

Mid Kent Living 45

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Look what’s blooming this spring...

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46 Mid Kent Living

Gardens to Title visit

Bloomin’ marvellous!

Spring is here, the world is opening up again ... and so are the National Trust gardens, as Chris Lawson reports...

G

ardens are often one of the first places to show the changing of the seasons, and spring is no exception.

April may still feel frosty, but before too long, blossom and blooms start making an appearance, creating feasts of colour and fragrance that never fail to lift the spirits.

From new displays across the garden at Ightham Mote, to the showstopping swathes of bluebells at Emmetts Garden, National Trust gardens across the region are crammed with breathtaking beauty and colour this season.

Blossom is one of the most exquisite delights of an English spring. Fountains of white, cream and pink seem to appear almost overnight at Chartwell, Scotney Castle and Sissinghurst Castle gardens, accompanied by their delicate fragrances.

In Japan, “Hanami” or flower-viewing is all about enjoying the fleeting beauty of blossom trees as they come into bloom. Here in the UK, everyone can join in our very own celebration of blossom in the run-up to the National Trust’s BlossomWatch day on April 23.

So, as the days grow longer, and hopefully warmer, take a stroll and savour the sights of the season in some of the most beautiful National Trust gardens in the county.

National Trust The National Trust is a conservation charity founded in 1895. It cares for more than 250,000 hectares of countryside, 780 miles of coastland and 500 historic properties, gardens and nature reserves across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Membership of the National Trust allows free entry to over 500 locations with other benefits. To join, go to www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Scotney Castle, near Lamberhurst With traditional beds and borders, the formal gardens of Scotney Castle have been likened to a landscape painting.

Capture the stunning vista of the old castle glimpsed through a swathe of newly-landscaped rhododendrons and azaleas, creating an almost fairytale feel.

The castle is clothed in climbing wisteria, and old English roses adorn the sandstone walls, while clouds of cherry and amelanchier blossom guard the entrance to the Quarry Garden, which re-opens this spring for the first time since 2020.

Fruit trees are covered with delicate blossom in the Walled Garden and daffodils run rampant across the site, including Narcissus Eystetterisis, an ancient variety dating back to the 1600s.

From early March, the Scotney gardeners offer free guided walks, sharing the season’s highlights and history. Lasting about 45 minutes, the walks run on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11am and 2.30pm www.nationaltrust.org.uk/scotney-castle

Emmetts Garden, near Westerham An Edwardian estate standing on one of the highest points in Kent, Emmetts Garden offers panoramic views across the Weald and contains many exotic and rare trees and shrubs from across the world.

The rhododendrons and azaleas are unmissable, with over 130 varieties providing ongoing interest and colour throughout the season. Almost 50 cherry trees are in blossom next to the wildflower meadow, surrounded by a sea of pink, red and black tulips that make for a spectacular display.

More unique specimens to be found are the Handkerchief tree and the Wedding Cake tree, both distinct and unusual trees that look wonderful at this time of year.

But without doubt, the “wow” moment at Emmetts is always the English bluebells, with the entire woodland completely transformed. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/emmetts-garden Mid Kent Living 47

48 Mid Kent Living

Homes & Gardens

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Spring Gardening

Ideas for home improvements

Sales, Services & Trades

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Homes & Gardens

Homes & Gardens

Keep ON the grass!

Spring is a wonderful time in the garden, but as temperatures rise and the colour returns, it’s time for some lawn care...

G

rass does not die over winter, but it all but stops growing. Once the weather warms up (perhaps after the last frost) in early spring, you can start mowing.

The cutting height and frequency will depend on the purpose and look you want to achieve, whether it be a close-cut classic lawn or a longer wildlife look.

It’s best not to mow if you want to encourage wildowers for pollinating insects, but to create a short, green sward, there’s a few tasks.

Lawns need feeding for vigorous growth. Keep an eye open for weeds and deal with moss by simply raking. But don’t rake too hard, or you’ll pull up the grass roots you need to encourage.

This is a good time to over-seed any areas damaged by winter, or appear thin after you’ve raked.

A regular cut keeps a lawn in good health, deterring weeds and encouraging a thick coverage.

In spring, mow a conventional lawn just once a week. For the rst mowing, set the cutting height to the highest setting. Thereafter, gradually reduce the height of the cut until your desired height is reached.

Avoid excessive close mowing, as this can “scalp’’ the lawn, making it more susceptible to drought, weeds and moss. The general guideline is not to cut more than one-third of the leaf shoots.

Earning your stripes

A striped lawn looks impressive and isn't that difficult to achieve if your mower has a rear roller. l Start by mowing around the edge of the lawn, and then back and forth. l For square or rectangular lawns, work from the left side, mowing up and down the lawn using the straight lawn edge as a guide to get the line. l For circular or irregular shaped lawns, line up the mower with a focal point to achieve an initial straight line across the widest point. This rst straight line can be your guide for sub­ sequent stripes. l At each turn, line up the mower so that the next mown stripe slightly overlaps the last. l Empty the clippings box regularly. A full box can deposit clumps of clippings on the lawn, spoiling the nish and clogging the mower.

Mid Kent Living 51

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Growing herbs – the potted story Herbs are easy to grow and tasty, to boot, as Simon Finlay discovered last summer...

W

ith a spectacular lack of imagination and the belief there is no point in growing anything you can't or won’t eat, I tried my hand at herbs. Albeit, two of the easiest – chives and parsley. It worked!

They are essentially cultivated weeds. They're also about the only vegetables I grow that chickens, slugs, cabbage whites or birds won't snaffle.

Here's a simple guide to some easy-to-grow garden herbs that will thrive here in Kent:

Sage Useful for making stuffing for roast chicken, it likes fertile soil in a sunny spot. Like most herbs, the more you harvest, the more it grows. Dry it in a jar to use in the winter.

Chives These have a strong onion taste and are great in salads, sprinkled over buttered, new potatoes, in stews and pasta dishes. There's not much to it – plant, water, pick. Don't forget to eat the mauve owers, which add avour and a dash of colour to salads. They like a decent soil in a sunny spot.

Parsley

Mint

A versatile herb with many uses which you can plant in the garden or in a pot on the window sill.

It's easy to grow most varieties of parsley from seed but there are pre-grown, faff-free and cheap starter pots in the garden centres and even some supermarkets. Needs well drained, fertile soil and plenty of sunlight.

There is nothing quite like the redolence of wild mint on the banks of an English chalk stream.

But in the garden, it can grow like mad, so it's perhaps best cultivated in pots. Pinch the owers once in a while to accelerate leaf growth. Mint will grow in sunshine or in shade.

Rosemary Fragrant, aromatic and avoursome, these leaves can be picked all year round. Buy the young plant in a pot, select a sunny spot in fertile soil and it should take off.

Coriander Coriander is a cook's favourite. Buy them in a pot as starters and plant in well-drained earth in full or partial sunlight. This herb can “bolt” if stressed and produce owers and seeds, rather than the leaves a chef prizes.

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Bin the bin… appropriately What do a used toilet brush, a stained mattress and a dead car battery have in common? The answer is they've all been dumped at charity shops, as Doug Kempster discovered…

N

o doubt the mystery benefactors thought they were saving the planet while supporting worthy causes. But the reality turned out to be the complete opposite.

Because these questionable commodities, and so many like them, ended up in the council tip while the charities were forced to foot the bill for disposing of them.

Reuse and recycling is crucial in the battle to slash waste and the 10 million household items that are consigned to landfill every year.

“After Fifty Shades of Grey, charity shops were inundated with erotic literature… ” Much of what we least need once it becomes broken or obsolete comes from the garden.

But it’s vital that, as the traditional spring clean approaches, we crack on with turfingout our unwanted shed stuff in an appropriate, as well as effective and sustainable way.

By far the biggest and most difficult possessions to shift are large items of furniture, such as sofas or garden tables, and which count as our least recycled household goods.

Some charity shops, like the British Heart Foundation, will take old tables, chairs and setees off your hands provided they have the proper fire safety ratings.

Others, like Dover’s Emmaus, employ homeless workers to upcycle second hand furniture for sale through its shops.

Clothes are an easier proposition when it comes to disposal.

If you’re looking to utilise your local charity shop, the simple rule is make sure your old glad rags are clean.

A blood-stained wedding dress or soiled underwear just don’t cut the mustard… and yes, there are horror stories of these being donated to worthy causes in the past.

Your cast-offs don’t have to be the height of fashion but if they’re in such a state that you wouldn’t buy them, don’t assume someone else will.

If the clothes you’re looking to clear out are rags, the alternative to giving them away is to reuse them as car or window cleaning cloths. The fabric could also be used to make patchwork quilts and blankets.

And animal shelters might take old jumpers and fleeces to use as bedding.

When it comes to human bedding, not all charities will accept old pillows and mattresses, so always check before taking it upon yourself to deliver them to your local store.

Meanwhile, if you’re shifting pre-loved toys, the most important consideration is safety. The wellbeing of youngsters trumps the need to recycle every time.

If the toy is broken and dangerous, bin it.

Charity shops will only accept child-related goods that carry a CE mark.

Books are always a popular giveaway and worthy causes can find they are quite a money-spinner. But, again, make sure they’re appropriate.

After the Fifty Shades of Grey phenomenon, charity outlets were inundated with boxes of erotic literature.

One, according to a business waste website, built a desk from old Fifty Shades copies and a reclaimed kitchen worktop… which is, you could argue, the ultimate example of recycling.

Around 80 per cent of mattress materials are recyclable but reclaiming them is a labour-intensive process. As a result, only 20 per cent are recycled in the UK. The best advice is to research your local options online if you're looking to off-load bedding this spring.

The Furniture Reuse Network has links to more than 200 charities which distribute goods to families in need.

And the website Freecycle has just shy of 6,000 local groups that let you list the furniture you don’t want so that neighbours can pop round and pick it up for nothing.

Go to reuse-network.org.uk for tips and advice.

Mid Kent Living 55

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Pump pressure Prices at the petrol pumps have gone through the roof in recent months.

Doug Kempster examines ways to make the liquid gold go a little bit further… themselves, as Doug Kempster argues…

T

here was a time back in the mid-90s when we’d studiously avoid certain motorway service stations.

They’d think it was okay to charge 47p a litre. We’d think they were having a laugh. If you crossed the English Channel and you could find the same fuel considerably cheaper. Small wonder Kent residents would travel monthly to fill up their cars and jerry cans as well as stocking up on cheap wine and beer.

Fuel and booze cruising…

Sadly, these days, you could slap a pound on top of that UK price and all of us would consider ourselves quids-in.

A combination of soaring international Brent Crude costs related to the rate of OPEC production, sporadic episodes of domestic panic-buying and Putin's Ukraine invasion has seen forecourt charges hit record levels.

And the price of filling your tank isn't just being impacted by the markets… government has also had a hand.

It is levying fuel duty at a flat rate of 57.95p a litre with 20 per cent VAT piled on top of that.

At the time of penning this piece, this all translated into a staggering 54.75 per cent of our diesel costs and 55.65 per cent of our petrol bills being trousered by the Treasury.

The impact of the flat rate obviously reduces as a percentage as prices go up, but the amount you pay in VAT grows.

It's cold comfort for hard-pressed households being squeezed on all fronts.

Motoring and consumer organisations have been quick to publish advice on how to maximize your miles per gallon.

Check your tyre pressures, switch off air con, don't carry unnecessary weight, don't warm up your engine, drive smoothly, don't over-rev… … and watch your speed.

Department for Transport figures show that a car doing 80 on the motorway uses 25 per cent more fuel than one doing 70.

(I assume they used number crunchers to work that one out rather than sending a team of speeding civil servants to give it some welly on the M20 - although, as with Covid lockdown laws, perhaps motorway regulations don't apply to them like they do the rest of us).

Of course, all these fuel-saving tips are good solid advice. But when you see the price of diesel go up by 10p a litre in the space of a week, the savings these measures bring are drops in the ocean.

And that's the galling part of it all.

There's little we, as drivers, can really do to soften the blow.

The anti-car brigade will tell you to take the train. But, in March, rail fares increased by 3.8 per cent, hiking the price of a typical season ticket by £120 to £3,263. Some Kent commuters even face the prospect of working seven weeks each year just to cover their travel costs.

And if readers fresh from polishing their Teslas are feeling a little smug because electric vehicles have not been so badly impacted, they should brace themselves.

From April, Ofgem's new price cap could see the average household's electricity bill soar by a mind-blowing 54 per cent.

And, if you think electric cars will continue to enjoy the current discounts and road duty breaks when there's a yearly £28billion black hole left in government tax revenues following the demise of petrol and diesel motors, you're as short-sighted as we were back in the day when we thought 47p a litre was a liberty.

‘There's little we, as drivers, can really do to soften the blow…’

Mid Kent Living Mid Kent Living 61 61

Competitions

4x Adult Tickets to the Kent County Show

Valid for 4x adults (children under 14 go free) on any one day of the Show.

Worth £78 Name: Address:

Postcode: Tel: Email:

Send your entry to: Kent County Show Competition Mail Publications Ltd, 2 Forge House Bearsted Green Business Park, Bearsted Maidstone, Kent, ME14 4DT Closing date: 24 June 2022 To opt out of receiving information about special offers please tick this box

Win

A Pair Of Open Day Tickets Name: Address:

Tel: Email: Preferred date: Preferred session:

Send your entry to: Big Cat Competition Mail Publications Forge House Bearsted Green Business Park Maidstone ME14 4DT

The tickets allow entry for 4x Adults on any one day of the Kent County Show. Under 13's go free (tickets must be booked in advance).

The Kent County Show in July is the region's showcase event for farming, countryside, and rural life. For three days a year, horses, livestock, vintage vehicles, retail stands, and more converge on the Kent Showground for a celebration of the best of the county. With lots of retail stands selling a unique range of food, drink, and more, and plenty of competitions and activities to see and do, the Kent County Show is a fantastic day out for all.

Contact Details: info@kentshowground.co.uk

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The Big Cat Sanctuary Win a pair of tickets to the 2022 Open Day.

Tickets will be valid for any of the open days held on July 27th- 31st, for either the morning or afternoon session This is an amazing opportunity to see the cats, learn about the sanctuary’s conservation work and enjoy a day out that will include falconry shows, keeper talks, art and craft stalls and much more.

The Big cat Sanctuary is located in the heart of the Kent countryside in Smarden and is set in 32 acres of grassland. It is home to a variety of different wild cat species from the smallest in the world to the most endangered and everything in between.

The peace and tranquillity of the site provides sanctuary and excellent conditions for the successful breeding of the beautiful, yet endangered, cats both large and small.

Or email your details to info@downsmail.co.uk using BIG CATS in the subject box.

Closing date: July 8th, 2022 To opt out of receiving information about special offers please tick box.

62 Mid Kent Living

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Mid Kent Living 63

Please note dates are provisional and subject to change Please note dates are provisional and subject to change

LOCATED NEAR JUNCTION 3 OF THE M25

BRANDS HATCH 2022 SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

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CHILDREN UNDER 13 GO FREE TO ALL EVENTS

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