Maidstone Medway Magazine

mmm Maidstone, Medway Magazine

mmm Maidstone, Medway Magazine

TRAVEL

Issue 15, April 2013 Complimentary

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Discover South Africa or cruises of a lifetime

FASHION

Our guide to the latest High Street trends

HISTORY

Jane Austin and her passion for romatic literature

EVENTS

DAVINA’S SUCCESS STORY

Open air shows on our doorstep

Davina is no stranger to Kent

April 2013

n Food n Motors n Business n Entertainment n And much, much more

Burberry Prorsum Autumn/Winter 2013 Collection

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Welcome

Welcome to the April edition of mmm magazine.

I can barely believe a month ago I was confidently expecting to have seen the glorious arrival of spring.

I fully expected to see those wonderful splashes of yellow across the landscape as daffodils sprang into life and gamboling lambs dancing across our fields.

Instead, we've had gales, yet more snow and endless rain! Let's all keep our fingers crossed April will finally see the sun win the battle of the elements and we can all enjoy some milder, drier weather.

There are signs, however, that things are slowly but surely getting better.

Which reminds me of how wonderful it is to take advantage of local food and drink.

One of my favourites is asparagus. The season is only a few short weeks long in the county, but it is truly one of the most delicious treats. There is nothing like a few spears dipped in warm butter. And it is just the aperitif to a summer harvest which reminds us all quite why Kent is known as the Garden of England.

I don't know about you, but I can hardly wait to visit all the wonderful local farm shops and suppliers and enjoy the rich bounty derived from our land.

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I've seen apple blossom start to emerge on trees recently and I'm sure soon they will become heavy with fruit.

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What's more, as the weather improves, a trip to the seaside is one that always puts a spring in my step. It's hard to beat hearing seagulls mingle with the waves while enjoying some of the sea's crop – prawns, cockles, crabs and lobsters.

In fact, this is a great time of year to remember how lucky we are. Our fields and surrounding seas are rich in many delicious treats.

So if the weather continues to be miserable, perhaps we can always enjoy a little comfort eating from the county's wonderful crop.

Enjoy the month, and I hope you enjoy this month's magazine.

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mmm MMM Media Ltd White Cottage 13 Ashford Road Maidstone ME14 5DA Tel: 01622 299035 studio@mmm-media.com sales@mmm-media.com mmm-media.com Publisher Rasa Dregva Editor Tom White

Travel Editor Tricia Lester

Production Michael Pilcher

Design M S Rawley Oliver Theobald Sales Michael Rawley Accounts Kerry Head

Photography Gediminas Zilinskas

Further contribution Evelina Webster

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10 Davina McCall

Read the story of Davina McCall, who has become many things to many people.

19 Fashion

It may be cold at the moment, but the Spring sunshine is on its way, so prepare yourself for the months ahead.

31 Food

Check out this month’s exclusive dishes, available from the best local restaurants.

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36 History

Jane Austin and her novels have appealed to audiences over hundreds of years.

42 South Africa

Be tempted to visit this unique location. But with the safari, fine cuisine and culture who couldn’t resist!

44 Exotic Cruises

This month we are being tempted by Fred Olsen’s superb cruise ships for short or long cruises.

51 Home

Maybe it’s time to get rid of the winter blues and start looking at refurbishing your home.

58 Property

An exclusive preview to a rather grand rural estate, and some perfect costal developments.

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67 Motors

Read all about the new McLaren, Ford and Toyota cars.

73 Local Events

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What better way to cheer ourselves up after all the upheaval of the winter weather, than by looking forward to some open air shows coming up this summer – all of which will hopefully be bathed in warm sunshine!

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78 London Graphic Arts Festival From industry celebrities to up and coming artists, experience the wonderful world of graphic design.

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80 Business

Whether you run your own business, thinking of branching out or are simply working hard to stay ahead of the game, check out our business pages.

All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.

The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. © MMM Media Ltd 2013

Davina McCall A National Treasure Prime time television star, charity activist, exercise guru, role model and the face of Big Brother Davina McCall has become many things to many people.

Find out how this rather bright star was born...

P

ERHAPS forever synonymous with the heyday of reality TV's most successful ever franchise – the mighty Big Brother – she has gone on to keep a seat warm at the very top table of the UK entertainment industry.

In fact, at times, there seems to be no avoiding her.

From hosting the likes of Channel 4's Million Pound Drop, Sky 1's Got To Dance, and appearances in everything from shows charting her family tree to fronting her own, albeit short-lived, chat show, she has not been short of work in recent years.

Failures are shrugged off and forgotten. Successes only add to her already impressive CV and rather special place in the psyche of the television viewing public.

And if you miss spotting her shows, then the chances are you've seen her capitalising on her natural beauty by being the public face advertising the likes of hair dye brand Garnier by L'Oreal.

All of which is before we even start to mention her presence on Twitter and active involvement in not only fronting annual charity extravaganza Comic Relief, but her desire to get her hands dirty – jetting out to trouble spots to come face-to-face with those suffering, and taking part in gruelling charity challenges.

We've not even got on to the fact she is a devoted mother to three children – two girls and a boy. Or that she has a string of best-selling exercise DVDs. What is more, she has a popularity which now spans generations. From those who remember her early days

on MTV to her most recent TV work, many have grown up with her and, what's more, she remains a thoroughly likeable individual – appealing to the viewer with a blend of accessibility and friendliness; she doesn't appear, at least, to buy into the famous lifestyle which she for so long has now been a part of her life.

She is, one could argue, one of us and we like her all the more for it.

And she is no stranger to Kent.

Courtesy of years of highly paid work, she resides in a sprawling £3.2million mansion in Wadhurst, just over the border in East Sussex.

With Tunbridge Wells her biggest nearest town, just a few minutes down the road, she has become a familiar face to the townsfolk who spot her popping in to stroll around the shops, along with husband Matthew Robertson – himself a a

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former TV presenter, best known for fronting Pet Rescue.

She admits they have benefited financially from some shrewd home purchases – but they have no intention of moving on just yet.

“We have done really well with our homes,” the star reflects. “We buy homes that need a bit of work, do them up, sell on and buy something else. We have done that three times and we have done quite well out of that.

“We are not going to move again, but we see our house as part of our pension.”

It would seem we can add “sound financial management” to that list of her achievements too. A skill she is clearly keen to pass on to her off-spring.

“Teaching my children about money and finances is very important. Matthew and I have talked about how, if our children do make a mistake, we will help them tackle it, not just pay it off for them.

“I think if you have got money, one of the worst things you can do is to hand your children money hand over fist. It is not going to help them at all.”

The couple wed in 2000 in what is Davina's second marriage. She was wed to Andrew Leggett for two years between 1997 and 1999.

Matthew, who now runs a travel company, is no slouch in the looks department either – and Davina knows the challenge they both face as they look to balance out their busy careers.

"I'm under no illusions - I know my husband is gorgeous and I need to

a

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With this in mind, we have created two special packages to ensure that your celebration is truly memorable.

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Overnight accommodation in feature bedrooms located within the historic manor house.

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Contact the Hotel for details and pricing: 0845 072 7426 handpickedhotels.co.uk Chilston Park Hotel, Lenham, Maidstone, Kent ME17 2BE

BBC - Who do you think you are - Wall to Wall

work at keeping hold of him.

“What is really important to me is that we go on holiday together each year. If you're ships that pass in the night, you need that time to fall in love all over again.

“I love my job but our annual holiday is so important. It's amazing the effect it has on our relationship.”

She admits that they also have to be careful to ensure her fame does not have a negative impact on their relationship.

“We try not to do the red-carpet things together too much. It is really hard for a guy to play second fiddle to his wife but he does it.

“But when we're at home, I play second fiddle to him. What he says goes and he has the final word on everything.

“We all know that and it works. I always wanted a real man; a man who’d drag me into his cave. “ I never wanted a walkover. I’m a a

“We try not to do the red-carpet things together too much. It is really hard for a guy to play second fiddle to his wife but he does it”

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strong woman and I need someone who can match that.”

Nor has life ever been a walkover for her.

Born to a mother who she once reflected “should never have had kids” and has described as an “alcoholic” her parents separated when she was just three, and she was raised by her paternal grandparents During her teens, and now living with her father, she suffered from an eating disorder, which would eventually see her dabble with drugs – and become hooked on heroin and cocaine; addictions which would live with her until her mid-20s.

“You name it, I took it,” she once revealed. “Cocaine, ecstasy, even heroin.”

She has spent years attending meetings to keep her addictions in check, admitting at the meetings she “feels safer than anywhere in the world”.

But it is from such a background she has emerged to become a rolemodel to millions. And few would argue her image as a hugely

successful, hard-working, strongwilled woman sends anything but the most promising of signals.

Davina McCall shows no sign of slowing up – no sign of dropping from the public gaze. And few would suggest that is anything other than a good thing. mmm

Shopping Centre

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Our aim is to offer this stunning venue and make a very special day a truly memorable one. www.oldrectoryweddingvenue.com

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JASON LIDDIARD TAKING HAIRDRESSING TO THE NEXT LEVEL A LOCAL salon Jason Liddiard Haidressing in Rainham, Kent, has been awarded a place in the hairdressing industry’s most fashion-led live hairdressing competition, the L’Oréal Colour Trophy 2013. The acclaimed event will be happening on 3rd April in London.

To gain a prestigious place in the regional final, the salon submitted a photograph demonstrating their technical expertise and their fashion awareness on a male or female model. Jason Liddiard Hairdressing were quickly noticed for their ability to produce a modern and inspirational hair colour with a stunning editorially inspired finish and shook off stiff competition of over 1,000 entries from across the UK. Jason Liddiard Hairdressing will now require a stunning, catwalk confident model to put both their knowledge of catwalk trends and technical skill to the test as they complete their model look live in just 45 minutes. The goal is to create a look that encapsulates the brief of a ‘well executed, inspirational, modern colour with a beautiful editorially inspired style and finish on a female model, complementing an Autumn/Winter 2013/14 fashion trend to create a show-stopping total look’.

Tia Liddiard and Jason Liddiard are part of a very excited salon team who are all overjoyed with having broken through to the next level of the competition. The team will now join 65 other salons from across the Southern region in a bid to secure the L’Oréal Colour Trophy 2013.

Jason said: ‘The fact that we are through for a second year running is proof of our salon’s creativity and expertise’.

The fashion fuelled, high energy event will be one of seven highly anticipated regional finals happening across the country and will be hosted by TVs new it girl Zoe Hardman, co-host of Take Me Out: The Gossip alongside Mark Wright for ITV2.

Each salon team will only have 45 tense minutes to bring their model look to life and demonstrate that they are the region’s most talented and creative hairdressers to a panel of judges consisting of acclaimed hairdressers. Award winning hairdresser and judge Trevor Sorbie MBE comments: ‘‘It’s an amazing achievement to make it to this stage, the Regional finals have an amazing atmosphere and it’s great to bring talented hairdressers from all over the region under one roof. What turns my head and captures my attention is when all the elements come together, great models with styling and make-up that work flawlessly with the cut and colour – an overall look that looks effortless.’’

Jason Liddiard Hairdressing could be one of just six salons to walk away with a place in the industries longest running, glamorous awards event, the 58th annual L’Oréal Colour Trophy Grand Final, on June 3rd, 2013, inside the elegant Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London. This stage leaves them just one step away from scooping the unparalleled grand final prize of A Year of Dreams. An exciting mix of educational courses, creative oversees events, national media exposure and glamorous fashion shoots.

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mmm food

n Exclusive dishes from some of Kent’s finest restaurants

n Try your hand at making them with our step by step guides

To promote your business call 01622 299035 or e-mail sales@mmm-media.com

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FOOD mmm chosen recipes from your local restaurants Buenos Aires Ceviche Recipe by Buenos Aires, Maidstone

Ceviche is a seafood dish popular in the coastal regions of the Americas, especially Central and South America. The dish is typically made from fresh raw fish marinated in citrus juices.

Pad Thai

Ingredients • 90g Cod • 50g Gambas • 5 lime • 5g chilli • 5g coriander • 30g sweet potato • 2g salt • 5g red onion

RESTAURANT

A Unique Experience At West Malling

T: 01732 870 000 www.pad-thai.co.uk manta@pad-thai.co.uk 15 HIGH STREET, WEST MALLING, KENT ME19 6QH

• 2g olive oil • 2g ginger Method Cut the cod in to 1 inch pieces.

Cut the gambas in half.

Finley cut the chilli, red onion, coriander, and ginger.

Place all the ingredients in a glass dish and cover it with lime juice from about 5 limes, add salt to taste, the fish should be completely covered by lime juice.

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and chill, let the fish cook itself in the lime juice for at least 4 hours.

Dice the sweet potato in to 2 inch pieces and boil in seasoned water, be careful not to over cook.

Mix all the ingredients together and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Put in a Martini glass with a nice coriander leaf on the top.

Enjoy your ceviche with a good dry crisp white wine such as, Sauvignon Blanc.

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FOOD mmm chosen recipes from your local restaurants Salad of Eastwell Estate Pigeon breast with heritage carrot and root ginger puree, bacon popping corn and spring leaves

Recipe by Eastwell Manor Ashford

Serves 4 people Ingredients 4 pairs Pigeon Breasts 200g grated Heritage Carrots (2 of each colour) 50g fresh grated Root Ginger 50g Cured Pancetta 10g Popping Corn An assortment of Spring Leaves An interesting but simple light supper or starter dish using local Heritage Carrots in purple, yellow and orange with bacon popping corn for a combination of flavours and colours. Heritage Carrots are available from good supermarkets and local farm shops.

The spring leaves can be whatever is available locally.

The Pigeon Breasts used in this dish are from the Eastwell Manor Estate but should be readily available from local butchers.

Puree Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a pan and add the grated carrot and ginger.

Cook gently until the juices run. Then remove from the heat, cool and blitz in a liquidizer. Allow to cool further.

Bacon Popcorn Sprinkle Grill the pancetta and then blitz with 10 g of the popped corn.

Pigeon Breasts Heat 25 g of butter and 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan and gently sauté the pigeon breasts for one minute each side. should still be pink in the middle. Remove from the

pan and keep warm.

To Serve Put a ‘swipe’ of carrot and ginger puree onto each warm plate. Place a pair of pigeon breasts on each ‘swipe’ and then dress with two long slices of each colour carrot and the spring leaves. Sprinkle with the Bacon Popcorn. Serve at once.

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FOOD Braised Ox Cheeks and Pudding

4 x PORTIONS YOU WILL NEEDIngredients For the Ox Cheeks 1kg oxcheeks; 100g plain flour 2 sticks of celery; 2 carrots 4 white onions; 2 bay leaves Sprig of fresh thyme 3 cloves of garlic;50ml vegetable oil 2 large glasses of red wine (Merlot or Claret preferably) 2 pints good beef stock For the Ox Tail Pudding 1 ox tail (chopped into pieces) 50g plain flour; 300ml port 1stick of celery; 1 carrot 2 white onions; 1 bay leaf Sprig of fresh thyme 25ml vegetable oil 1 large glasses of red wine (Merlot or Claret preferably) 2 pints good beef stock

For the Ox Tail Pudding 600g self-raising flour 300g beef suet and Seasoning 3oz eamekins x4 Melted butter for lining the ramekins Cooking The Ox Cheeks Trim any visible hard fat or string like sinews from the ox cheeks, season well and lightly flour.

Heat a heavy bottom frying pan and add the vegetable oil, add the floured ox cheeks and brown well.

Once the ox cheeks are browned, remove and allow to stand, then add the chopped vegetables and garlic cloves to the same pan, maintaining a moderate heat.

Once all the vegetables are browned evenly, remove them from the pan and add the red wine, then reduce this by half and add the sprig of thyme, bay leaf and good beef stock.

Bring to the simmer and turn off.

Lay the ox cheeks in an oven proof dish and add the vegetables and stock to cover them, and then cover with a double layer of tin foil.

Place the dish into a pre-heated oven at 160 deg C for approx 2½ to 3 hours, until the cheeks are tender to the touch.

Cooking The Ox Tail Season the ox tail with the salt and pepper and then lightly flour.

The instructions are the same as Cooking the Ox Cheeks.

Save the finely chopped vegetables and place to one side.

Using your fingers, pick the meat from around the bones on the ox tail, discarding any fat or gristle.

Combine the saved finely chopped vegetables and ox tail meat together along with a small amount of the sauce to make the filling for the suet pudding.

Making the Suet Pastry Combine the suet, flour and seasoning together in a bowl.

Add Recipe by cold Village Hotel, Maidstone water to combine the ingredients together, this is best done with a metal spoon, as your hands will start to melt the suet from the heat of your hands.

Roll to an inch thick and leave to rest for an hour in the fridge.

Brush the melted butter all around the ramekin.

Roll out the suet pastry and cut 4 discs, 6-7cm bigger than the ramekin, this will enable you to line the ramekin in one go.

Place these discs into the ramekins, and press firmly into the corners, then place the ox tail mixture into the lined ramekin.

Brush the rim of the pastry with cold water, and now cut 4 x discs the same size as the ramekins, and place these on top of the mixture.

Pressing fairly firmly, seal the top with the end of a knife or similar to create a good seal, then trim any excess from around the edges of the ramekin with a sharp knife.

Make a small hole in the middle of the lid of the pudding, then clingfilm the ramekins twice and place into a steamer for around 45 minutes.

Remove from the steamer and allow to stand to five minutes When you are ready to eat this dish, the best way to reheat the puddings is to microwave for 3-5 minutes, and serve with simple seasonal green vegetables and a good homemade mashed potato.

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CONTEMPORARY CUISINE

Le Jardin Restaurant Waterloo Road, Cranbrook,, Kent TN17 2ET 01580 720 583 dine@lejardinrestaurant.co.uk www.lejardinrestaurant.co.uk

Le Jardin is excited to introduce itself to the Weald of Kent as a contemporary restaurant serving exquisite dishes from all around the world.

We are proud to present our award winning chef Silvestre Inacio and restaurant manager Nino Akgul.

You can find us on Trip Advisor

u New Spring-Summer menu with starters from £4.95 and main courses from £8.95 u Unique all around the world dishes selected each week u Traditional Sunday roast £9.95 u An extensive list of spirits and all around the world wines u Alfresco dining u Large car parking facilities

Opening Times: Monday and Tuesday closed all day Wednesday to Saturday from 12 till 10pm (last orders) - Sunday 12 till 5pm (last orders)

Ja ne Au ste n. ..

Jane Austen An inspiration to every author S

HE is, perhaps, the world's most famous author of romantic literature; creator of timeless, tasteful, classics.

Her novels have appealed to audiences over hundreds of years, inspired others to pick up the pen, and, more recently, proved the creative spark for films, TV dramas and theatre productions.

What is more, there appears to be no decline in the appetite for the work of Jane Austen.

Born in 1775, she is defined by her masterpiece, Pride and Prejudice, a glorious take on the social airs and graces of the era and delivering one of the great male lead characters – the remarkable Mr Darcy. [

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[ Along with her other novels – Sense and Sensibility, Emma, and Mansfield Park – she has won as many plaudits for her take on sensibilities from the mid 18th century and early 19th as she has for the sheer art of her words, and the compelling nature of her storytelling craft.

So when the 200th anniversary of the publication of Pride and Prejudice passed in January of this year, it reignited interest in her work and into the women behind such literary classics.

And for many people, it will come as a surprise to learn that her family's roots are very much in Kent.

While Jane herself was born in Steventon, Hampshire, her father, George, was born and raised in Tonbridge – the latest in a number of generations to call west Kent home.

As to whether the author herself ever came to the county remains lost in the pages of history. Experts say there is no proof available to confirm any such visit. Yet, at the same time, they are quick to

suggest it would make sense that she paid a visit to her father's family.

It has not stopped fans of the author from taking pilgrimages to see where the Austen family once lived. There are even special walks available from the county council which allow you to take in some of the areas once frequented by Jane's father and forefathers – taking in the homes of great-grandmother, the homes of her great uncle and great aunt.

But the key venues are Tonbridge School – where her father George Austen both studied and would eventually work as a master – and the Church of St Peter and St Paul, where many of the family worshipped and the remains of some remain to this very day.

Among them, her grandparents are buried within the grounds of the church.

The Austens had their business interests in the cloth trade – becoming successful over successive generations.

The family had, by the time of James I's reign in the late 16th century and early 17th, settled in the

village of Horsmonden, near Tonbridge.

John Austen lived on the Broadford estate. According to records, his great-grandson – who also took the name John – married Elizabeth Weller in 1693. The couple were the great-grandparents of Jane.

Miss Weller provides an anchor to the Austen family in Kent. It is thought her family had lived in Tonbridge since the Civil War of the mid 17th century. She went on to work at Sevenoaks School, where a plaque today remembers her, and her remains, although no longer marked, are in the town.

By the time her grandfather William, and father George, were added to the ancestral line, it is estimated more than 20 family members lived in and around Tonbridge.

George was William Austen’s only son and was born in 1731.

His life would not be an easy one, though. Orphaned at the age of six, his great-uncle footed the bill for him to be educated at Tonbridge School.

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The education would pay off and he secured a place at Oxford University.

He would return, however, to the school as second master before heading back to Oxford to become chaplain, and then to become rector of Steventon in Hampshire.

It was a fateful move. In 1764, he married. His wife, Cassandra, would bear them eight children. The seventh of which was Jane.

She would receive a good education and, encouraged by her father to explore his library, to experiment with her writing style.

From the age of 12 she had started penning poems and stories with which she read aloud to her family for their entertainment.

Their enjoyment and encouragement would fan her flames to pursue the written word.

Work on her first ever novel was apparently completed before she was 20, but would never see the light of day, [

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although is believed to have been the inspiration for Sense and Sensibility.

What is more, it is believed the first draft, or what would become Pride and Prejudice, was completed by the time she was a mere 21.

However, it was not until she was 36 that her first book – Sense and Sensibility – was published and established her as a writer after a good critical response.

Just five years after her first published work, Jane Austen experienced a down turn in her health, which was slow at first but then become more pronounced as the year went on.

On July 18. 1771, Jane Austen died. She was just 41. Reports of what killed her are mixed, and range from bovine tuberculosis, caused by unpasteurised milk, to a form of cancer.

It brought the curtain down on her career but forever cast the Austen name in stone.

Kent's role in the background to one of the great literary minds should not be underestimated, however, and the county has become rightly proud of its role in providing the home for the Austen family over the years.

And what harm is there in thinking – as is entirely possible – that Jane came to the county with her father to see family and friends? mmm

mmm travel

n See out the winter on a Fred Olsen cruise, exploring the four corners of the world

n Ever fancied a safari or even whale watching? We guide you through the unique South Africa.

Sponsored by

To promote your business call 01622 299035 or e-mail sales@mmm-media.com

Pay Less, Spend Less Now is the best time to visit South Africa

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O

ur opinion that South Africa is one of the best places in the world to visit, offering incredible value for money, was reinforced recently amidst turmoil in the uK economy as Britain’s historic credit downgrade caused havoc in the markets.

As the British Pound struggles against the uS Dollar and the Euro, meaning less spending money in your pocket when you travel, the pound is actually up significantly against the South African rand and there is no better time to enjoy the highlights of South Africa. We’ve selected some of the best attractions on offer, excursion options, food and wine inspiration… all of which can be enjoyed without breaking the bank.

A world in one country: South Africa is the perfect touring

destination with plenty to see and do, and of course it offers some of the best wildlife experiences.

Read on to find out why…

A touring holiday in South Africa allows you to experience the very best of this magnificent country.

There’s so much to see and do and there really is something for everyone. Whether your passion is history, culture, food and wine, or you’re seeking adrenalin fuelled activities and exhilarating safari experiences, you’ll be left mesmerised by this rainbow nation.

With only a two hour time difference from the uK, you can get started the moment you touch down.

Attractions: Whale-watching Eye to eye with the ocean’s great giants. Most of our itineraries include a visit to Hermanus – the whale-watching capital. You don’t even have to go out on a boat to see them because Hermanus, overlooking Walker Bay, is considered to be the best land-based whale-watching spot in the world.

Robben Island A worldwide beacon for human rights; there’s more to robben Island Museum than the story of Nelson Mandela and anti-apartheid activists. robben Island Museum narrates a tale of incarceration that goes back 350 years. Accessible from Cape Town’s Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, you’ll visit the island by ferry and enjoy a guided tour by a former political prisoner who has personal experience of the prison. Approx £30 per adult.

Chic shopping Shopping in South Africa can be exhausting – there are such attractive goods specific to the country. And, when compared with prices in the uK, there are bargains

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Western Cape is the best place to taste the full variety and where 99% of the vineyards are located.

A vineyard tour varies in price but interacting with wine makers allows you to truly savour the worldfamous wines and is a must.

galore. With gold and diamonds being among the most-famed resources.

The Garden Route Known as South Africa’s Eden, the famous Garden Route traverses an area rich in natural beauty and charm, attracting adventure-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Food and wine Discover the joys of award-winning wines and cuisine along many of the beautiful Cape wine routes, taking you through green valleys and the historic towns of Stellenbosch and Franschoek. Wine tastings are a must with no less than 18 wine routes where you can learn more about the gorgeous wine, buy more than you’re meant too, and then reward yourself further with a long delicious lunch in the warm Cape sunshine. There’s no ‘wine route’ fee to pay but each winery will charge, the amount dependent on the estate you visit.

Food South African cuisine includes an eclectic mix of both foreign and local produce. The different cultural influences across the continent have had a huge impact on the food available. Some meat products include goat, deer, boar and beef.

There are also exotic goods like alligator and ostrich meat. Seafood is also abundant, especially in Cape Town and other coastal areas.

Wine Experiencing the wines in South Africa is something else. The

Local customs Enjoy tasting the local food at the many markets you will come across. Traditional fayre is inexpensive and includes boerewors rolls, morogo and other foods typical of South Africa, while in townships it's more common to come across a vendor boiling corn or the local maize, pap – often an essential part of the township experience.

Safari Big 5 safaris in South Africa are a must-do for anyone fascinated by wildlife. Big 5 refers to buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard and rhino – the term comes from the animals considered most dangerous to hunt.

If you're looking for a Big 5 safari experience in South Africa you can go to almost any province, but the Kruger National Park in Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces remains an iconic tourism destination.

The Big 5 are in abundance within the park, and if you’re lucky you will see them on guided drives with an experienced ranger on dawn and dusk safaris when the wildlife is at its most active.

You may well see all Big 5, you may not, although your chances are high.

Experienced rangers are always on the

look-out and can spot animals from some distance, but you too should always keep your eyes open.

Holidays to South Africa are from £1,945pp.

Wine, Wildlife and the Garden Route Eleven day tour from £1,945 per person.

Discover the delightful Cape region of South Africa, enjoying a relaxing journey to Cape Town and the scenic garden route. Enjoy coastal drives, interesting culture, wine tasting and amazing wildlife. The variety of this country is simply breathtaking.

Departing 30th August, 27th September, 1st November 2013 and 14th February 2014.

Kruger Safari and Victoria Falls Eleven day tour from £1,995 per person.

Feel the heartbeat of Southern Africa on a journey from historic Johannesburg into the Kruger National Park in search of the ‘Big 5’ and to the incredible ‘smoke that thunders’ at Victoria Falls.

Departing 13th June, 8th August 2013 and 6th February, 6th March 2014.

For further details, please contact your local Baldwins Travel Office or call 01622 762141. mmm

Kirsty Keeling-Jones Branch Manager Baldwins Travel Agency Maidstone - 01622 762141

Fred. Olsen the ‘Local,

This month we are featuring an article about Fred. Olsen Cruises Here’s what you can expect when cruising with Fred. Olsen The Fred. Olsen difference… n Personal and friendly service n Traditional British cruising n English speaking crew n Sterling currency onboard n Value for money n 218 single cabins across the fleet n High customer loyalty n Cruises for all budgets (3-112 nights duration) n Informative and user friendly brochure n Informative website n Fantastic cuisine n Great entertainment n Wide range of exciting destinations What’s Included n Comfortable en suite cabin, with TV, hairdryer, and coffee making facilities n In-cabin safe or safety deposit boxes n Fine dining, informal buffets and late-night snacks throughout your cruise n Captain’s cocktail party and gala buffet n Ice cream at selected onboard venues n Complimentary tea and coffee throughout the day and early evening n Daily onboard activities and free lectures n All evening entertainment including cabarets and dancing n On board leisure facilities including swimming pools, Jacuzzis and use of gym equipment n Free birthday celebration and anniversary packages (for those celebrating during their cruise) n All port and air taxes n Reasonable drinks prices and no extra service charges added n Baggage porterage to/from cabin from drop-off/ pick-up point n Direct flights and transfers to and from the ship on Canary fly cruises

F

RED. Olsen Cruise Lines operates a comprehensive range of cruises, to destinations worldwide, from a wide choice of UK departure ports; in fact, in 2013, the cruise line offers cruises from nine different ports:- Dover, Southampton, Portsmouth, Newcastle, Greenock (Glasgow) and Rosyth (Edinburgh), along with the newly added ports of Harwich, Liverpool and Belfast. This means that around 90% of the UK population is within an hour’s drive of a Fred. Olsen departure port.

Cruises aboard the fleet of four modestly-sized ships – Balmoral, Braemar, Black Watch and Boudicca – range from mini cruises of just two or three nights, right up to World Cruises of over 100 nights, and destinations visited include the Mediterranean, Canaries, Adriatic, Norway and the Baltic, Iceland, Greenland and the Arctic Circle, as well as the Caribbean, Cape Verde Islands, around a

Cruise Lines, Global Cruise Line’

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a Africa and, of course, around the world. Exciting new destinations visited on forthcoming world cruises include Myanmar (formerly Burma), Japan and Hawaii. Alternatively, guests can choose to cruise around the British Isles and discover

wonderful ports closer to home.

The smaller size of the ships allows for an intimate and friendly atmosphere aboard. The range of facilities is impressive; ships offer a wide range of cabin styles, including spacious balcony suites, and a

varied programme of daily activity and evening entertainment. Guests can enjoy heated pools, hot tubs, well-equipped fitness centres, beauty salons and treatment rooms.

Each ship also has a library, card room, internet room, Wi-Fi hot spots, and spacious lounges to relax or enjoy a show. There is a choice of pleasant bars and both formal and informal dining.

Many cruises offer the additional attraction of a special interest theme, through the onboard enrichment programme, Vistas.

This includes themes such as Antique Collecting, Wine Tasting, History, Photography, Gardening, Watercolour Painting and much more. Some of the well-known names hosting Vistas themes include BBC ‘Antiques Roadshow’ regular, Lars Tharp, food and drink [

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[ expert, Jilly Goolden and TV

gardener, Charlie Dimmock.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines was delighted to be crowned ‘Best

Affordable Cruise Line’ at the 2012 ‘Cruise International Awards’, as well as being voted ‘Best for Learning’, for the second year running, in recognition of the Vistas programme. Most recently, Fred. Olsen was also voted ‘Cruise Company of the Year’ in the prestigious Travel Agents' Choice Awards, 2012.

To find out more about the Fred. Olsen Cruising Experience, why not come along to Baldwins Travel’s Fred. Olsen Cruise afternoon presentation. You will hear first hand, all about their product from our Cruise Specialists.

Places are limited so please see our advert in this month’s issue for our contact details.

We hope to welcome you at our presentation! mmm

The Good Life, Next

Check Wallpaper (per

roll), £15

Floral Printed Curtains, £40

Sunbury Bedstead, £39

9

Check Bed Set (set of 2), £27

Bubble Knit Throw, £40 Weybridge Nest of Tables (set of 2), £175

Elissia Rug, £95 Small Knitted Pod, £75

Cushions fr

om £14

Accessories from £6

mmm home

n We guide you through refreshing your home this spring

n Check out what’s hot on the high street n Exclusive access to some of the most luxurious homes throughout Kent

To promote your business call 01622 299035 or e-mail sales@mmm-media.com

Some Great Home Ideas

Spring 2013 Interiors Collection available at Debenhams.

See Top and Left.

Hoxton Upholstered Stool, ÂŁ219, by Linea at House of Fraser

er

Mirrored Trunk, £629, available from House of Fraser

Linea Naturals Dining Set - Dean upholstered chair (set of two) £440, Veneered back chair (set of two) £300, Drop Leaf extending dining table £799, Echo stoneware dinner plate £7, side plate £5, bowl £5, Simplicity fine bone china dinner plate £14, side plate £12, bowl £10, mug £9, Lustre gold hi-ball glass £6, Provence white napkins (set of two) £10, Marcel 24-piece cutlery set £90, all by Linea at House of Fraser.

See Right

Gold charger £18, Etienne dinner plate £9.50, bowl £7, side plate £7, teacup and saucer £7, Espresso cup and saucer £7, mock-croc gold coaster (set of 4) £10, Odette 24-piece cutlery set £160, all by Pied a Terre at House of Fraser.

See Left

Carved wooden plaque, £70, available at House of Fraser

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Jacksons Fencing news, topical treats and more... mmm 55

Hooray! The clocks have gone forward which means it’s officially British Summer Time.

The weather may not be “summery” yet, but we do have the extra light, which means more time to plan outdoor activities.

Maybe you have it in mind to give your garden or outdoor living space a makeover and you are raring to go to make some improvements, but you need some inspiration? Well here’s an idea, why not have a look through Jacksons web site, there’s a wealth of information and ideas on there.

Our new panels like Venetian and Woven feature in our show gardens pages and image galleries, they show how the panels work together with other elements like decking, water features, paving and planting, to create stunning gardens.

And for the last few years we have been adding stories to our Customer Projects pages on the website. This is

another ideal source of ideas, by looking at the projects other people have carried out. Some have ‘before’ and ‘after’ pictures, which show what an amazing difference can be made, for example one customer says this: The main reason for putting the deck there was to make good use of the space at the back of the house. The ground slopes away quite steeply. It was quite a drop from the back door to the grass. The decking area is now level with the house, so we can now step out from the lounge onto the deck. Because this has raised our sitting area up higher we can now sit on the deck and enjoy much more of the sea views.

When accompanied by pictures of projects like this it

can be a really useful source of inspiration, and may give you ideas on how to make a problem area in your own outdoor area become useful.

Some of the projects show a simple but effective change like increasing privacy by adding a trellis panel to the

top of a fence, but others show a complete garden makeover - well worth a read - visit your local page: www.jacksonsfencing.co.uk/ashfordlocal to see a link to customer projects and the show gardens pages online.

louise@jacksons-fencing.co.uk

WIN an iPad Mini!

Everything you love about an iPad in a more compact, manageable size. Simply log on to your local page, address below and follow the easy instructions on how to enter the free prize draw.

The draw closes 30.4.13.

Previous Prize Draw winners are posted on the web page.

To enter go to:

www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/ashfordlocal

YOUR VISION OUR GUARANTEE From the boldest ideas to the finest detail, we understand exactly what goes into the areas you create. That’s why, since 1947, we’ve guaranteed to meet your vision with our guarantee.

We guarantee great British fencing designed around you. We guarantee a seamless installation by our team of specialists, and most of all, we guarantee all of our products for 25 years.

Please call 0800 41 43 43 for a copy of our FREE brochure showing you the complete range of fencing, gates, decking, pergolas, agricultural, equestrian and security products . . . or to buy online visit jacksons-fencing.co.uk

Jacksons Quality Guaranteed Jacksons Fencing Stowting Common Ashford Kent TN25 6BN

ipe Rosewood £749, Georgia Loveseat in Str 9, ,39 £1 er ath He lix in He Georgia Medium Sofa hions £25, Faux Silk Curtains £109, , Velvet Cushions £19.50, Print Cus £35 s Embroided Cushion all part of the Spring 2013 collection, available from Marks and Spencers

Imagine a conservatory you can use comfortably all year round

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IS YOUR CONSERVATORY . . . v Too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter? v Roof leaking or noisy when it rains? v Being used as a storage area, not a living area?

DID YOU KNOW YOU CAN ‘REFURBISH YOUR CONSERVATORY’ TO HELP CREATE AN ENERGY EFFICIENT LIVING SPACE? Fairdeal Windows Ltd are Kent’s only approved installer of ‘Refurbish My Conservatory’ specialist and exclusive products This is one of the most cost effective ways to revive your tired old conservatory We can offer the following three options Replace the roof only Replace the roof, windows and doors Replace the entire conservatory

KENT’S ONLY INSTALLER OF

Unit K Orchard Business Centre 20/20 Industrial Estate Aylesford Kent ME16 0JZ www.fairdealwindows.co.uk 01622 683332

The cost-effective way to revive your tired conservatory

Customer Testimonial ‘We were delighted with the service and work carried out on our property recently. We would recommend your company to anyone wanting any of the services that go with double glazing and if in the future we require any further work we will of course contact your company. The fitters who replaced our conservatory roof were efficient, clean, tidy and very polite. We cannot praise them or the service your company provided too highly. Our conservatory has been transformed into a second sitting room, complete with comfortable furniture, it’s lovely to just sit and read, no longer a junk room. Thank you once again.’

Mr & Mrs Henley, Snodland, Kent

Refresh your flooring this spring Come down and visit our showroom today We guarantee any written quote WILL be beaten

We also Stock and Fit: • Wood Flooring • Vinyl Flooring • Underlay • Carpets TEL. 01634 72011

Unit 8, Ballard Business Park, Cuxton Road, Strood, ME2 2NY

OPEN Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Sat 9pm-1pm

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Live like a Lord at Mayfield Grange

B

UYERS can live in a home steeped in distinguished history at Mayfield Grange, a luxurious country estate on the manicured rolling lawns of a site which dates back to 1868. Perfect for buyers seeking a luxurious home in an exemplary English countryside location, the former Mayfield College and Chapel have been transformed into a prestigious residential estate.

Located near the village of Mayfield in East Sussex and approached along a sweeping

drive, the former college building was originally designed by Edward Pugin in 1865 and completed in 1868. The Grade II listed main building, known as The Great Hall, has been converted into 11 magnificent two bedroom apartments.

Each apartment provides a unique home with period features such as vaulted ceilings, ornate stone windows and original tiled flooring. Only two of these prestigious properties remain with prices from ÂŁ515,000.

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Adjoining The Great Hall is The Chapel, which has been refurbished to provide one of the most outstanding loft style residences built outside of central London.

The chapel has been transformed to provide a lavish apartment, almost 2,500sqft in size, with a stunning hammer beam ceiling and a triple height space above the main split level reception room, complemented by retained and restored period Gothic features, including intricate carved stonework, stunning stained glass windows and the original frescos. Available for £799,995, this unique home has two bathrooms, two bedrooms and a spacious living area with big, round original windows which allow streaming light into the home.

Mayfield Grange is complete with a collection of 11 new build five bedroom houses, a converted period property and 39 newly built apartments in two new buildings, all designed to complement the Great Hall and the Chapel, creating a unique collection of homes, steeped in history, yet perfect for 21st century living.

Perfect for families, the new-build homes are built to the highest standard of Weston Homes’ quality and only a handful remain with prices from £325,000.

Bob Weston, Weston Homes Chairman and Managing Director,

comments: “Mayfield Grange is without doubt one of my favourite buildings, and demonstrates the skill of the entire team in creating such high quality homes. It offers the best of both worlds with a selection of timeless new-builds and spacious conversions alongside the most architecturally dramatic buildings in the area, all set in picturesque landscape.”

Built in the Gothic style by Edward Welby Pugin for the Duchess of Leeds in 1865, the buildings on-site were originally erected as an

orphanage under the Xavierian brothers. Pugin was the eldest son of famous architect and designer of Neo-Gothic architecture, Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin, and followed in his fathers’ footsteps designing the renowned Alton Towers, Scarisbrick Hall, and Shrewsbury Cathedrals – among many other British churches and cathedrals primarily in the Isles.

Mayfield Grange itself is located just four miles from Wadhurst station and three miles from Crowborough station, both of which allow travel to London within an hour. It is also excellently located for international travel with Gatwick Airport located just 20 miles away. Road access provides easy connections to the M26, M20 and M25 via the A26 and A21.

For families, Mayfield Grange provides excellent access to local schools including the renowned Tonbridge School for Boys and St Lennards Mayfield School for Girls.

For more information, please contact the Mayfield Grange Sales and Marketing Suite on 01435 874 837 or visit www.westonhomes.co.uk/mayfieldgrange. mmm

PERFECT DRIVEWAYS . . .

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MORRIS AND TURNER, YOUR BATHROOM SPECIALIST SUPPLYING TO THE TRADE AND PUBLIC

‘‘A family run business now in our 42nd year of supplying quality bathrooms, showers and fireplaces to the trade and public.

We are now nearing completion of the complete refurbishment of our extensive showrooms at Third Avenue, Chatham, with the addition of a new department dedicated to special needs in the bathroom.

A new easy access is under construction and soon to be completed.’’

Showrooms at Third Avenue, Chatham are open Monday to Saturday

Morris & Turner Bathroom & Fireplace Warehouse Ltd Third Avenue, Chatham Kent ME5 0AD Telephone: 01634 813813

Dockside Chatham First floor next to escalator Open: Mon-Wed & Sat 10-6pm Thur & Fri 10-7pm Sun 11-5pm Telephone: 01634 891524

See our website for more details

www.morrisandturner.co.uk

and speak to a member of the team, or email info@morrisandturner.co.uk

Artificial Grass Looks Great All Season No More Mowing No Watering or Feeding High UV Resistance No More Muddy Feet or Paws l Children Friendly l Pet Friendly

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Block Paving Driveways Paths, Steps and Walling All Stone Work Full Design and Advice Service Professional Finish Residential and Commercial Competitive Rates

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Unit 8, Ballard Business Park Cuxton Road, Strood ME2 2NY Tel: 01634 720411 Open: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm, Sat 9am-1pm

Barton Farm Industrial Estate Old Surrenden Manor Road Bethersden, Ashford TN26 3DN

01233 822322 / 07969 502804 Telephone:

Kitchens of distinction

by Guy Hamilton

Free no obligation home consultation and design Full installation service including building works Superior quality at surprisingly low prices

Warmlake Business Estate Maidstone Road, Sutton Valence ME17 3LQ www.hamiltonkitchens.co.uk Tel: 01622 844897

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Live the Whitstable dream A

RARE opportunity to purchase new homes near the harbour with off-street parking for at least two vehicles in Whitstable and under £250,000 – is this for real?

Many people dream of owning a home close to the sea in a town with a reputation for having chic shops, restaurants, yacht club, and renowned for its oysters – Whitstable has it all and is only an

hour’s drive from London!

RPC New Homes are delighted to offer on behalf of Richard Beale Developments, these two and three bedroom houses.

Designed with holiday homes in

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mind, these properties benefit from private storage to the rear, ideal for the windsurfers and barbeques!

On entering the properties there is a good size hallway with storage cupboards and utility rooms. Stairs lead up to the living accommodation on the first floor with open plan living/kitchen areas, which enjoy high gloss white units, wood laminate work surfaces and integrated Bosch appliances, including hob, oven, fridge/freezer and dishwasher.

All bedrooms have fitted carpets and the master bedrooms enjoy Juliette balconies to the front.

Each property also enjoys at first floor level a private decked terrace, ideal for relaxing after a day at the beach, with stairs leading to private gardens.

All homes come with wood laminate flooring and fitted carpets, gas-fired central heating, and are ready for immediate occupation.

Prices start from ÂŁ229,995.

To make an appointment to view or for a copy of the brochure please call: RPC New Homes, Mid Kent on 01622 691911 midkent@rpcnewhomes.co.uk

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Heritage Building Services All home improvements including Bathrooms, Kitchens, Extentions, Driveways, Brickwork, Plumbing, Heating & General Maintenance For further information please call

01622 738547 or 07957 383287

Working in association with

mmm motors

n Stay classy this spring with some of the best cars on the market n Speed or practicality? Our guide shows the best car which suits your lifestyle

To promote your business call 01622 299035 or e-mail sales@mmm-media.com

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MOTORS

Ford

Launch of new engine FORD has spent much time and money on pushing its bid to grab a share of the increasingly lucrative SUV market with the latest incarnation of its Kuga.

And as the 13 registration plates started being delivered to forecourts in March, Ford was rather smug having shifted 1,850 all-new models before a mile had been brought up on the speedometer.

What's more, to keep everyone happy, the vast bulk of those sales were of the top of the range Titanium and Titanium X models, with 98 per cent ordered with optional extras bolted on.

But its launch comes with a little more interest given the use of the 1.6-litre turbo-powered EcoBoost engine.

Being rolled out across the Ford range, the engine has won plenty of

plaudits already and provides a realistic alternative to traditional bigger, fuel-guzzling alternatives.

The all-new Kuga builds on the success of its predecessor with a sophisticated design, elevated driving dynamics with an inventory of sophisticated driver-assistance systems including Torque Vectoring Control; spacious rear package with greater flexibility, a wider choice of low CO2 powertrains, a wealth of smart technologies and the five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

Andy Barratt, Ford of Britain sales director, said: “Since launching in 2008, Kuga has been praised for its great looks and fun-to-drive character.

The all-new Kuga offers even more, addressing customer feedback with increased luggage and passenger space and a smart, stylish package.

Sales are off to a strong start with the high series mix already exceeding that of the outgoing model which is fantastic news.�

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Toyota

Auris estate TOYOTA will be hoping for the best of British with its Auris Touring Sports estate after unveiling pricing details for its UK launch.

Making its debut during the Geneva Motor Show which took place early last month, it represents the first estate options on the Auris range which is coming off its UK production line at its plant in Derbyshire.

And while it may not have secured

the lion's share of attention at a show which packed the punch of the likes of the McLaren P1 supercar, it is worth a closer look.

The base model will start at ÂŁ15,595 for the petrol engine, and rise to ÂŁ22,845 for the hybrid version.

Among its selling points are the fact it is the first model in its class to offer a full hybrid powertrain.

The range starts with the Active, then progresses to the Icon, Sports and Excel models, ramping up the trim as it goes.

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MOTORS

McLaren

A very special car THERE was much to get the blood pumping at last month's Geneva Motor Show, but perhaps there was nothing which got the pulses rushing quite as much as the McLaren P1.

Granted, it will cost you some ÂŁ866,000 should you want it to permanently be parked outside your home, but it is a machine hard to tear your eyes from.

Not only is it a sleek looking beast, it will take you from a

standing start to 62mph in less than three seconds. And all the way to 124mph in just over double that.

Packing a 3.8-litre twinturbocharged engine, top speed is electronically limited to 217mph should you ever find yourself on a German autobahn and with a desire to put your foot to the floor.

What's more it has a hybrid powertrain, thus ensuring it is a vehicle on nodding terms, at least, with modern expectations.

As a result, it can be driven solely in electric mode, which, at an average speed of 30mph, could

allow it to travel up to a 20km range.

But it is the looks which will capture the attention – and looks which have barely been tweaked since the world first got a glimpse of it during last year's Paris Motor Show.

Keen for customers to use on both track and roads, the P1 comes comprehensively equipped as standard with an array of colour and trim alternatives as well as visible carbon fibre in the cabin It's not cheap, but then it was never going to be. But it does make you stop and stare.

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mmm events

n Attend some of the best outdoor events throughout the region this spring

n We guide you through some of the best art and culture events in the big city

To promote your business call 01622 299035 or e-mail sales@mmm-media.com

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Something to cheer you up after the bleak winter we have had!

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A

FTER the long and cold winter we've just experienced, what better way to cheer ourselves up than by looking forward to some open air shows coming up this summer – all of which will hopefully be bathed in warm sunshine.

Even better, who can beat packing a picnic and settling down

for some world class entertainment, and all on our doorstep?

From classical music in the most romantic and timeless settings, to cool sounds by a chart-topping songstress and relaxing jazz, there's something for everyone this summer.

Here are just a few of the events which may catch your eye.

Leeds Castle Open Air Classical Concert – July 13 This traditional event has become established on the calendar and packs a powerful

punch when it comes to headline acts and with a backdrop that's hard to beat.

With the picturesque castle looming behind the stage, the event features the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra conducted by John Rigby.

In addition, the Military Wives Choir – famed for their number one hit Wherever You Are – will be performing, repeating an appearance last summer.

And if that wasn't enough excitement, there will be displays of fighter plans past and present flying over the castle and the crowds in a dramatic fly-past. a

Leeds Castle

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Lounge on the Farm

Paloma Faith

a Tickets range from £34 where you can

bring your own picnic, £44 for a seat near the stage, or £49 which includes a threecourse meal before the show.

For details, see www.heritage-events.co.uk

Paloma Faith – Bedgebury Pinetum, near Tunbridge Wells, June 21 After several years of gaining a critical and mainstream audience, 2012 saw Paloma Faith emerge as a fully-fledged superstar.

Following her 2009 debut album, last year's Fall To Grace cemented her position as one of the UK's foremost female artists.

And in June she will be performing among the trees at Bedgebury Pinetum near Tunbridge Wells as part of the Forestry Commission's Forest Live concert series.

Following in the footsteps of a host of other major performers over the years, the day after her show, Debbie Harry and co take to the stage, as Blondie headline.

Tickets cost £32.

For details see www.forestry.gov.uk/music Jazz in the Garden – Quex Park, Birchington, July 7 What better way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon in the summer than listening to jazz in the grounds of Quex Park?

Its July Jazz in the Garden event sees the Bay Jazz Band perform while spectators are invited to bring a picnic and settle down for three hours of music.

Quex Park, in Thanet, has developed something of a reputation in recent years for staging such high profile summer shows,

Rochester Castle

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with a host of top performers past and present headlining.

This rather more sedate affair is certainly value for money too. You can enjoy the event for just £5.

Tickets are limited and can be purchased in advance by calling 01843 842168.

likes of Status Quo, The Wanted and a night featuring 80s stars such as Go West, ABC and Tony Hadley earlier in the week instead.

Tickets for the Castle Proms cost £30.

For details see www.whatsonmedway.co.uk.

Castle Proms, Rochester, July 20 The Castle Concerts series has become as much part of the summer in Kent as strawberries and cream.

And this year will be no different, with a host of star-studded shows culminating in this traditional finale.

The Castle Proms is a rousing conclusion to a week of shows, staged in the idyllic setting of Rochester Castle Gardens.

Featuring the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, it brings the pomp and power of the Last Night of the Proms to the county, with fireworks, flag waving and favourites such as Land of Hope and Glory, Rule Britannia and the 1812 Overture to entertain the crowds.

And if that is a little too laid back for you, well there's shows by the

Lounge on the Farm, Canterbury, July 26-28 Turning up with a rug and a picnic table may not be quite the thing to do, but Lounge on the Farm offers a diverse cultural offering which will fill your senses.

A music festival which has a strong sense of its setting and ideals, the food served is locally sourced and even includes burgers from cattle raised on the very farm the festival takes place on. Quex House

Lounge on the Farm

Meanwhile, the entertainment ranges from comedy and drama to major musical stars.

This year's headliners include American blues guitarist Seasick Steve and the likes of Soul II Soul.

And if you don't fancy the idea of camping in a field for the weekend, there are plenty of hotels nearby allowing you to glamp-it in style.

Tickets start at £100 for the weekend.

See www.loungeonthefarm.co.uk for details.

London Graphic Arts Festival

THIS year’s Pick Me Up turns typetastic with the following events: legendary letterpresspractitioner and Fellow of the Royal College of Art, Alan Kitching will host his hands-on letterpress printing workshop, teaching the fundamentals of this typographic practice; Seb Lester, who has designed decorative typefaces for clients such as Apple, Nike, Victoria’s Secret and the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, will create customised calligraphy prints; illustrator Emily Forgot will produce name posters for children’s

bedroom doors or walls using her delightfully-designed alphabet; and graphic embroidery extraordinaire Evelin Kasikov will showcase this traditional technique with supersize spelling in cross stitch.

Other highlights include the latenight music and art mash-up from Heavy Pencil with special guests Mike Perry and Josh Cochran from New York; a kooky toy-making workshop from Creative Review and creature creator Felt Mistress; Game, Sketch and Match with doodler dude Jon Burgerman who will be collaborating on cartoons

with festival goers, and the newsroom from children’s creative magazine The Loop, where budding journalists can make headline news by drafting, drawing and printing the front page of a newspaper From 20-21 April, the Children’s Choice Weekend will see Shaun the Sheep model-making workshops with animators at the award-winning studio Aardman and family-fun activities with famed illustrator Axel Scheffler, the man who visually creates the characters of Julia Donaldson’s much-loved children’s books, including those from The

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Pick Me Up, the UK’s original contemporary graphic arts festival, returns for its annual celebration of the wonderfully diverse world of graphic arts at London’s Somerset House in April.

As well as showcasing and selling affordable artworks in live action studio spaces from the world’s most inventive and ingenious graphic artists, Pick Me Up presents an exciting and eclectic programme of events and workshops, hosted by some very special guests.

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Gruffalo, Room on a Broom and The Snail and the Whale. Axel’s activities will include storytelling time for younger children, The Gruffalo illustration workshop for older ones – with live drawing projections and one-to-one advice - and book signings for all.

One of the Evening Standard’s Top 20 Rising Stars of 2013, Zoom Rockman will be recreating a lifesize scene from his own comic book at Somerset House on 28 April.

At the age of 12, Zoom writes, illustrates and publishes his awardwinning comic The Zoom! which is

stocked in specialist shops across the capital. The bright young comic book creator even received a thank you letter from Buckingham Palace, after he dedicated one of his issues to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

There will also be a series of evening talks and forums with professional advice and anecdotes from industry insiders.

The events are free of charge with the entry admission price to the festival, though there may be an additional charge for the purchase of prints and posters produced at events. mmm

Dates: 18-28 April 2013 Opening Hours: 10am-6pm, daily. Late night openings on Thursdays until 10pm.

Address: Embankment Galleries, Somerset House, Strand, London, WC2R 1LA. Admission: £8, Concessions £6.

Festival Pass (unlimited entry) £15.

Transport: Temple, Embankment Charing Cross, Waterloo.

Website: www.somersethouse.org.uk #pickmeuplondon www.facebook.com/SomersetHouse @SomersetHouse www.facebook.com/pickmeupfair @pickmeuplondon

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BUSINESS

London Stock Exchange Grow For It

PAUL Carter rang the bell to start trading on the London Stock Exchange recently and to officially launch a major new push for big business to invest in the county.

The publicity stunt ensured Grow For It got a high profile start in its bid to highlight to investors the attractions of east Kent.

Business minister Michael Fallon addressed an audience of 120 investors, entrepreneurs and media, who heard what’s on offer for businesses in the county.

It is hoped the combination of Government funding and ever improving transport links will help breathe new life into the area.

Mr Fallon, MP for Sevenoaks, told the gathered audience: “East Kent is out in front as an area that is

delivering on the potential of the Regional Growth Fund... the region has the drive, resourcefulness and companies to thrive in the coming years.”

Cllr Carter further declared east Kent “open for business”, commenting on the area’s significant business advantages and the necessity of unlocking its growth potential.

He was followed by Doug Richard, investor and founder of School for Startups, who paid tribute to east Kent’s potential as a hub for creative and digital businesses, something that was echoed by Damian Collins, MP for Folkestone and Hythe, who spoke of Folkestone’s potential to rival Brighton as a south-east centre for creative entrepreneurship.

Panel discussions, chaired respectively by Damian Collins and Laura Sandys, MP for South Thanet, featured the east Kent businesses that are benefiting from the Regional Growth Fund and the growth potential of the biotech sector, with the world-leading facilities at Discovery Park in Sandwich.

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Smiths Gore

Farmland for investment LOOKING for a little something different to invest in? Then what about 624 acres of farmland, complete with chalk quarries just outside Maidstone?

Agents Smiths Gore is marketing the site around Burham, which includes farmland, woodland and nearly 100 acres of unfilled quaries.

The land is situated on the edge of the North Downs and offers opportunities to acquire arable land with approximately 1,000 tonnes of grain storage; grazing land with several livestock buildings; and the unknown entity of the old chalk pits.

The agents are expecting a busy month and plenty of fighting to secure the land.

Giles Wordsworth, head of Smiths Gore’s national farms and estates

Little Stars

Fashions for boys and girls This year Little Stars, exclusive fashion for boys and girls from 0-12 years, is celebrating their second year in business.

Specialising in Spanish and Italian fashion for children, and with new collections from Ralph Lauren, Sarah Louise, Angel Faces and Tutu (to

name but a few!) it has never been a better time to treat your own little star.

The store is based in the heart of Maidstone’s independent shopping district, the Royal Star Arcade Shopping Centre, and prides itself on the best customer service - it even offers a deposit pay off scheme, where you can place a 20% deposit and pay off the remainder over six weeks.

team, said: “In the current market it is rare that such a substantial block comes to market in Kent and the land market is hungry for this type of property, generating both agricultural and commercial interest”.

The farm is situated north of Maidstone between the M2 and M20.

William Banham of its Maidstone office added: “This farm offers a good

mixture of equipped farm with arable land, pasture land and woodland, with the unusual opportunity of the chalk quarries, and will certainly benefit the local market who have had to live off much smaller sale parcels.”

Bids need to be in by April 26.

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BUSINESS KCC

New strategy gets nod IT may not have the punchiest of titles, but a major new scheme to help 14-24 year olds develop the skills they need to secure a future job has been unveiled by Kent County Council chiefs.

The cabinet gave the nod to the 14-24 Learning, Employment and Skills Strategy, a three-year vision to bring education, training, apprenticeships and employers together to help the age group achieve their potential in learning and employment.

The document that underpins this commitment follows the council’s Kent Jobs for Kent Young People campaign and reflects a wide range of activities – backed by schools, colleges, businesses and training providers – that will help the county’s pupils, students and youth unemployed to get their foot on the career ladder.

Mike Whiting, KCC cabinet member for education learning and skills, said: “As the requirement for young people to remain in education, training or work with training until their 18th birthday is introduced, it is important that we pull together all the various strands of work and partners across the county. This new strategy explains how we will do that, aligning all the different activities, actions and offers that will help change young people’s lives.

“It is important to do this so that young people find it as straightforward as possible to get the help they need and achieve their potential. What we are doing will mean that young people will know about, and have a wider range of options for their learning and training – with more help into apprenticeships and employment.

“The county council already does a lot of work to increase the number of young people onto apprenticeships – there are so far 10,000 apprentices in Kent – and takes very seriously its responsibility to help young people reach their potential while they are at school, college or a training provider. We are taking this opportunity to develop a better system of vocational education and training in Kent and to improve the support for vulnerable young people to get better qualifications and increase their employment prospects.”

Baldwins Travel

Top Travel Agent in Tunbridge Wells A MYSTERY shopper approached agencies in Royal Tunbridge Wells to find a week-long family package in Greece with children's activities included, with a budget of £3,200 for a family of four.

They then found two websites through Google.co.uk using the term `active family summer holidays in Greece'.

The winner in the High Street versus internet, was Baldwins Travel, 25-27 Grosvenor Road, Tunbridge Wells: 94% First impressions: The branch was bright with plenty of room to browse. Brochures and offers for ski and summer holidays were displayed in the window.

On entering, I was greeted immediately and after a few minutes browsing, a friendly consultant offered their assistance. 9/10 Sales process: The agent established what I wanted, noted my needs such as the Greek island I was interested in, and suggested daytime flights, which would make travelling as smooth as it could be for a young family. 14/15 The winning seller was: Allison Younger Agency: Baldwins Travel Position: Senior Travel Consultant - 01892 506411 If you need further information, please do not hesitate to contact Allison.

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mmm Maidstone, Medway Magazine

TRAVEL

Issue 15, April 2013 Complimentary

15

Discover South Africa or cruises of a lifetime

FASHION

Our guide to the latest High Street trends

HISTORY

Jane Austin and her passion for romatic literature

EVENTS

DAVINA’S SUCCESS STORY

Open air shows on our doorstep

Davina is no stranger to Kent

April 2013

n Food n Motors n Business n Entertainment n And much, much more