MMM Magazine

mmm Kent’s Lifestyle Magazine

Issue 48, January 2016 Complimentary

48

Kent’s Lifestyle Magazine

Duncan

Bannatyne FIGHTING FIT from a RAGS TO RICHES life

16 page

Property supplement INSIDE

From the CATWALK to TV’S most in-demand HOST

EMMA

res

OTHER featu

New Year Resolutions

Top tips for January

January 2016

&

diets

Willis

PROPERTY BUSINESS BEAUTY AND MUCH, MUCH MORE

mmm Kent’s Lifestyle Magazine

Issue 48, January 2016 Complimentary

48

Kent’s Lifestyle Magazine

Duncan

Bannatyne FIGHTING FIT from a RAGS TO RICHES life

16 page

Property supplement INSIDE

From the CATWALK to TV’S most in-demand HOST

EMMA

res

OTHER featu

New Year Resolutions

Top tips for January

January 2016

&

diets

Willis

PROPERTY BUSINESS BEAUTY AND MUCH, MUCH MORE

6

mmm

mmm

fter weeks of turkey leftovers, there is something refreshing and rather invigorating about the dawning of a new year.

A

It may be something of a cliché, but with a new year comes the opportunity to turn over a new leaf in any number of ways.

From the traditional desire to shed those extra pounds put on after the festive excess, to simply wanting to read more or spend more quality time with your family – the power to make the next 12 months enrich your life in ways previously not experienced, are significant.

Every January, for example, I join some friends to not only get a little healthier but to raise money too for good causes close to our hearts.

Of course, sometimes the good old British weather does its very best to prevent us all from getting out and about and enjoying a little much needed fresh air to get the blood pumping.

One man who appears never to let a little thing like the elements stop him from working out is the one and only Duncan Bannatyne.

Fresh from his time in I’m a Celebrity… we take a close up look at a man who has had a real rollercoaster of a life and gone from humble beginnings on the outskirts of Glasgow to owning one of the most famous health club empires in the country – with a number of branches right here in Kent. They will no doubt be benefitting from everyone else wanting to follow in their boss’ footsteps this month.

You may not be one to agree with the idea of setting yourself resolutions at this time of year, but at least the start of the year provides us with a moment to reflect on our recent past and changes we want to make going forward.

The only resolution I would urge you to adopt, assuming you don’t already of course, is to make sure you pick up a copy of mmm every month during 2016.

As the county’s top lifestyle magazine, we can promise that throughout the year we will invigorate your imagination with things to do and places to go in this wonderful county of ours – and sometimes a little further afield too.

Add to that our normal mix of some of the most fascinating celebrities, fashion, history and shopping opportunities, why look anywhere else?

So whether you are an old or new reader of mmm we wish you a very happy and prosperous new year and, as ever, extend a huge debt of gratitude to our advertisers who know that the very best way to grab the most discerning audience out there is through our pages.

So as our fifth year dawns, here’s hoping 2016 is our best yet.

See you next month!

Rasa

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48

mmm MMM Media Ltd GHL House 1st Floor 12-14 Albion Place Maidstone Kent ME14 5DZ Tel: 01622 299035 sales@mmm-media.com www.mmm-media.com

GARDENING Top tips for January

73

31

DIETS FOR JANUARY Reach your personal goal

THE TWITCH INN Echoes from the past by Robin J Brooks

34

BEAUTY Hair solutions this winter

78

MOTORS The newest models Mazda CX-3 and the Renault Clio

36

FOOD Recipes to inspire

86

LOCAL NEWS Latest local news in Kent

45

COLD WEATHER FOODS Using fresh produce

91

THE BEST LONDON MUSICALS Find your new favourite West End musical

48

TRAVEL Baldwins Travel Group presents Japan

96

HOROSCOPES January predictions by Ali Janes

53

2016 NATIONAL TRUST DATES Dates to note for your diary

57

DUNCAN BANNATYNE From a rags to riches life 5/1 01

GADGETS AND GIZMOS Gym gadgets galore

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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. Š MMM Media Ltd 2016

NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS Dedicate yourself to a brighter future

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Further Contribution Tracy Jones

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oll ec

Jessica Kaur jessica.kaur@mmm-media.com

HOMESTYLE UPDATES Spruce up your home

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Sales Sue Houghton sue.houghton@mmm-media.com

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Design Matthew Jones

EMMA WILLIS The secret of her success

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Editorial Tom White Robin J Brooks Tricia Lester Sarah Vince

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Publisher Rasa Dregva

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“I’m not going to leave him because he has a problem,” she says, “You stick together and get through it.

“He’s clean and sober now and very boring,” she smiles, “I’ll take boring over the alternative.”

She’s certainly had her pick of high profile men – with both obbie illiams and Justin Timberlake making unsuccessful advances on her.

For many, she came to prominence presenting on I’m A Celebrity… spin-off show Get Me Out of Here Now 2007. She was co-host with her husband who had appeared – and won – the previous series.

But her rise to success was no flash in the pan. orn mma riffiths in Birmingham in March 1976, she started modelling when she was 17 and worked for a host of top brands including Chanel, Vogue, Gap and Marie Claire.

Deciding to seek to further her career she moved to London – but remains close to her family.

She explains: “I was 17 when I asked them if I could move to London for work.

They didn’t want me to go – they were terrified. ut they supported me. When I’d go home for the weekend, my dad would take me back to the train station and the whole family would come. We travelled in a pack. We still do everything together.”

She made the leap from the page to the a

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2016 IDEAS FOR New Year Resolutions NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS ARE AN ANNUAL OPPORTUNITY TO REFLECT ON THE PAST AND DEDICATE ONESELF TO A BRIGHTER FUTURE

OVERCOME ADDICTION

This is a common new year resolution, but one that is frequently understated. We can become addicted to more than just alcohol and cigarettes.

Other common addictions include: gambling, betting, online poker and bingo games, television and video games. Addiction is a grey area, so if you’re not sure, ask family and friends for an objective opinion. Don’t be afraid to seek help.

It’s braver to admit the problem than to hide it with pride.

GIVE UP SMOKING

Still addicted to the deadly habit? Well, you’re in a declining number. The mood against smoking has truly turned, with more and more pressure coming to bear to banish it from public places after the success of eradicating it from our pubs and clubs. No-one can be left in any doubt as to just how dangerous it is to your health, you’ll feel so much better, smell great and enjoy a healthy boost to your bank balance. Surely that’s reason enough?

DO SOMETHING CRAZY

How about seeing a bit more of the world? Take an adventure, even if it’s just a hike in your local woods. The therapeutic effects of opening your senses to the sights, sounds and scents of nature are well documented. How about giving sky-diving, hang gliding, or bungee jumping a go? Make 2016 a year to remember!

LEARN SOMETHING NEW

Learn a new language Spanish, in particular, is a language that’s spoken in many beautiful parts of the world, such as South America and the Caribbean. Alternatively, you could try learning a musical instrument. There are few instruments that can match the elegant sound of the flute. or something easier, why not pick up a book and read a subject that fascinates you? Perhaps you’ve always wanted to read Darwin’s Origin of Species, or you’re curious about Victorian horror stories li e racula and ran enstein.

All this resolution requires is a little time, and the knowledge you amass can make for an interesting conversation starter, which could help to fulfill other resolutions!

LEARN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE

There is perhaps nothing worse than travelling abroad only to hear everyone in a foreign country speaking almost as good English as you do. We have certainly been spoilt in this country thanks to English being the universal language. But wouldn’t you love to go to France and converse in their native tongue? Or visit Italy and speak the beautiful language? Perhaps there’s even a desire to learn the current fad – Mandarin...and open up the opportunities presented by China. All it takes is commitment and a desire to learn – even when the going gets tough – and by this time next year you could be fluent.

SAVE MONEY

Now this really is easier said than done. Especially right now. With the constant strain from rising fuel prices meaning heating our homes and driving our cars is ever more expensive, trying to put a few pennies aside for a rainy day is more and more difficult. specially when interest rates for savings are so low. But it can be done. And the best way is to conduct a full review of your out-goings.

The chances are that by saving on the odd takeaway or a meal out you’ll soon find those savings adding up.

EAT HEALTHIER FOOD

We are bombarded with advice about healthy eating, but too often we are told what we can’t eat, not what we can! It’s difficult to reduce the pleasure we get from food when it isn’t replaced with anything. However, there are plenty of tasty, lowfat alternatives. If you want something sweet, avoid chocolate and have some strawberries or blueberries instead. One way to get started is to look at the fat content of everything you eat, and avoid anything with more than 5g of fat per 100g of food.

DO MORE FOR CHARITY

How often have you considered doing a sponsored event only to come against the age old excuse of not having enough time? Well the trick is to ma e sure you find the time – and that all comes down to good old time management. Liberate the time and book that event now. What’s more, once you start collecting money and telling people you’re doing it, that will provide the motivation to ensure you see it through.

Just make sure it’s something that is suitably challenging and takes you out of your comfort zone...you need to earn that money after all!

RESOLUTION IDEAS

LIVE WITHIN YOUR MEANS

GET FIT

he benefits of exercise cannot be stressed enough. egular exercise can help you loo younger, sleep better, and feel happier. t can also help you avoid a plethora of illnesses and disabilities. he human race evolved to run away from predators and run after prey it is our natural state to be active. o for a run in the morning or evening, or sign up with your local gym. or something less strenuous, try yoga or ilate’s. So what better way to put a spring in your step than by improving your health ou don’t have to oin a gym to ma e a difference, of course. a ing up running only needs a decent pair of trainers, while going for a bris wal will also get the blood pumping. nd if you manage to achieve this first one, the second most popular resolution tends to follow hot on its heels...

SMILE MORE AND BE KINDER TO PEOPLE

he benefits of smiling are drastically understated. e are reciprocal creatures we pic up on signals from other people and respond in ind. he benefits of smiling are scientifically proven and include reduced stress levels and increased feelings of well being. Smiling also demonstrates a basic level of indness and respect for others because it helps to establish trust and friendship. o go beyond a mere smile, one can try volunteering for a charity, or counselling a friend or colleague through hard times.

he most important ew ear resolution for 2016 is to live within your means. conomic conditions are still difficult, and there are many people worse off than you. owever, there are also many things you can do to save money and avoid debt. oo for bargain brands when it comes to buying food, bathroom, and cleaning products. ne of the biggest rip offs is the toothbrush and toothpaste business. uy the cheapest of both and you won’t notice the difference. ext loo at your utility bill. re you paying the cheapest rates for gas, electric, water, phone and internet Switching companies, or combining two utilities with the same company can save money. o save even more, turn off the heating and wear an extra layer of clothing. oo at your travel costs would catching a bus or train be cheaper than using the car esearch railcards and bus passes to find the best bargains. ost important of all is to loo at what you need and what is merely a luxury. o you really need cable or satellite television o you need a monthly phone contract when a prepaid phone might be cheaper o you need the latest gadgets and accessories o you need to go abroad to have a holiday dd up how much you’d save in the course of a year, and start saving

mmm 23

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Tracksuit and bottoms Topman

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i e trac and field hoody Nike.com

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GET FIT Get Active

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distar boost shoes 120.00 Adidas.co.uk

inter sports t shirt 2 .

Superdry

mmm 27

Media sales executive

REQUIRED

You will have a strong track record in advertising sales, be organised and thrive on the challenge to achieving monthly targets.

You will need to have a professional telephone manner, be smartly presented, be able to develop new business and look after existing customers for our products.

mmm Kent’s lifestyle Magazine

Good basic salary + open ended commission structure + company car (optional) + mobile phone 4 weeks annual leave 2015 Issue 38, March Complimentary

Issue 37, February

2015 Complimentary

Kent’s Lifestyle

Magazine

Kent’s Lifestyle Magazine

From DOCTOR to DETECTIVE affair The nation’s love with David Tennant

The Magic of

Travel and Leisure Show

MERYL

22nd March

Gift ideas to a perfect

VALENTINE’S

Weddings in Kent

Just who can resist the allure of

GEORGE CLOONEY?

OTHER features

OTHER

features

Your guide to

the perfect Mother’s

Paloma’s pitch perfect assault

PLUS

ess, ts, Busin ent, Even rtainm more ry, Ente Histo , much And much

day gift

on the senses

R oyal b y name, nature and deed H ow E lton J ohn turned from ‘ ‘ R ock et Man’’ to

family man

PLUS

Events, Business, History, Entertainment, more And much, much

Be part of a caring team Please call to discuss further 01622 299035 or email your CV to matthew.jones@mmm-media.com

W

Gym Gadgets Galore

ith 2016 now here, it’s a perfect time to consider getting into shape and a fantastic way to enhance this, is to have a good selection of gadgets and equipment. mmm picks their top choices to help you get in gear...

i od Shuffle .00 Apple Stocklist

Jawbone UP24 activity tracker red medium £74.00 Boots Fitbit Aria Wi-Fi smart scale £99.99 Boots

“Currently government advice recommends that adults aged 65 or over, who are generally fit and have no conditions that limit their mobility, should aim for 150 minutes of moderateintensity activity each week, but this can be broken down into 10 or 20 minute blocks ”

Fitbit Aria Wi-Fi smart scale £99.99 Boots

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i e S Sportswatch with sensor 1 .

Nike.com

“Getting seven to eight hours of sleep a night is one of the best things you can do if you want to lose weight and be healthy”

i e

uelband with calorie counter and range finder 1 0.00 Nike.com

iPhone arm holder £17.00 Apple Stocklist

eart rate monitor luetooth Smart compatible including textile strap .00 Adidas.co.uk

ro fitness chinning bar £12.99 Argos

armin ivofit fitness band slate Argos

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“Strength training is essential for weight loss because it burns calories while improving insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake”

Adidas swivel push up bars black and red £39.99 Adidas.co.uk

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JANUARY PROMOTION ring for details!

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TOP TIPS FOR January diets DIETS AREN’T EASY, BUT mmm IS ON HAND TO OFFER YOU SOME SIMPLE DIET TIPS TO HELP YOU REACH YOUR PERSONAL GOAL

1

EAT LESS SUGARY FOOD

Cut down on sweets, cakes, syrupy desserts and sweet drinks. For desserts or snacks try yoghurt, fruit or nuts (such as unsalted walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds), and try drinking water or unsweetened tea.

2

EAT LESS FRIED FOOD

Foods that have been deep-fried in oil or ghee, such as samosas, are high in fat. This can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of diabetes and other health problems. Try steaming, baking, boiling or grilling food instead.

3

EAT MORE BEANS AND PULSES

Beans and pulses, including lentils, chickpeas, peas and beans, are low in fat and high in fibre, and an important part of any balanced diet. Avoid frying pulses. To learn about eating pulses as part of a balanced vegetarian diet, read about vegetarian health.

4

EAT MORE STARCHY FOOD

Starchy foods such as rice, bread, pasta, potatoes and yams should make up the main portion of a meal.

Try to choose wholegrain (brown) versions instead of white versions, as they contain more fibre. se wholegrain or wholemeal flour when you’re coo ing.

17%

of us added cite the food cost of main as their re aband ason for on eating ing an plan

6

EAT LESS SALT

Too much salt can cause raised blood pressure. High blood pressure usually has no obvious symptoms but can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Raised blood pressure isn’t more common among people from EAT LESS SATURATED FAT Saturated fat is found in butter, ghee, full-fat south Asian communities, but it is a serious health milk and other dairy products, fatty and issue for everyone. Avoid adding salt to food when processed meat such as kebabs or sausages, you’re cooking and try not to add it to food at the coconut and palm oil, biscuits, pastries and table. If you need to season food, use pepper and cakes. Too much saturated fat can raise the level of other spices. cholesterol in the blood, which is a risk factor Salt is often added to ready-made and processed for heart disease. Reduce the amount of foods, including bread, cereals and soup. saturated fat in your diet by: Reading food labels (usually on the back of the Trimming the fat off meat packaging) can help you control how much salt you of tho Taking the skin off chicken eat. oo at the figure for salt per 100g’. s e starte d thei who Using semi-skimmed milk, 1% A high salt content is more than 1.5g salt r kick o n New health fat or skimmed milk (or 0.6g sodium) per 100g.

Day w Year’s i l Using low-fat yoghurt and A low salt content is 0.3g salt (or 0.1g l give within two to up reduced-fat cheese sodium) or less per 100g. four week Eating smaller amounts foods s. that you know are high in fat You can also read food labels to see EAT MORE OILY FISH whether a food is high or low in saturated fat.

A healthy diet should include at least two High levels are more than 5g of saturated fat per portions of fish a wee , including one of 100g. Low levels are less than 1.5g of saturated fat oily fish. ily fish is particularly high per 100g. in omega-3 fatty acids, which may Eat small amounts of unsaturated fat instead of help to eep your heart healthy. ily saturated fat. nsaturated fat is found in oily fish, fish include mac erel, pilchards, avocado, nuts and seeds, olive oil, rapeseed oil, salmon, sardines and fresh tuna. vegetable oils, and spreads made from these oils.

5

42%

7

HEALTHY LIVING

8

EAT MORE FRUIT AND VEGETABLES

mid the non stop flow of advice about diet and health, and whether the magic number is five, seven or ten, one message stays constant. he fact that all experts agree – a diet rich in fruit and vegetables is good for us. resh, fro en, even canned all count– and may reduce the ris of heart disease, diabetes and some forms of cancer, plus help to fight

Two t hir of Bri t lose w s want to e igh just 1 4% o t and f us a comp re le with o tely happy ur bo dies

the signs of ageing. im for at least five portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables a day. resh, fro en, tinned in water or their natural uice , dried or uiced all count. ead more about how to get your five a day.

9

ds

MAINTAIN A HEALTHY BODY WEIGHT

he weight that is right for you depends on many factors including your sex, height, age and heredity. eing overweight increases your ris of a wide range of diseases including heart disease and cancer. xcess body fat results when you eat more calories than you need. hese extra calories can come from any caloric nutrient protein, fat, carbohydrate or alcohol but fat is the most concentrated source of calories. hysical activity is a good way of increasing the energy calories you expend each day and it can ma e you feel good. he message is simple if you are gaining weight, you need to eat less and be more active.

10

GET ON THE MOVE

s we have seen, too many calories and not enough activity can result in weight gain. oderately physical activity helps burn off those extra calories. t is also good for the heart and circulatory system and for general health and well being. So, ma e physical activity part of your daily routine. se the stairs instead of the lift up and down . o for a wal in your lunch brea . ou don’t have to be an athlete to get on the move

11

START NOW AND MAKE CHANGES GRADUALLY

radual changes in your lifestyle are much easier to ma e than ma or changes all at once. or three days, write down the foods and drin s you consume at meals and as snac s o you have too few fruits and or portions of vegetables o start with, try to eat ust one extra piece of fruit and vegetables a day. re your favourite foods high in fat and ma ing you gain weight on’t eliminate those foods and feel miserable, but try to choose low fat options or eat smaller portions. nd start using the stairs at wor

HEALTHY LIVING

Herby steak and oxtail pudding ecipe from Tudor Park Marriott Hotel & Country Club shford oad, earsted, aidstone, ent, 1 01622 udor ar www.marriotttudorpar .co.u

Ingredients For the suet pastry dough: 2 g self raising flour 1 0g suet 1 tsp ba ing power ood handful of fine chopped herbs 220ml water For the stew: 00g diced braising stea 1 tbsp plain flour Salt and blac pepper 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 2 good chun s of ox tail andful of mushrooms, uartered 1 onion, finely chopped cloves of garlic, crushed 00ml of beef or vegetable stoc 1 tablespoon of tomato puree few sprigs of fresh rosemary and thyme

hef’s ip here is no need to add potatoes to this already filling dish but roasted vegetables are a perfect accompaniment. ut vegetables into large chun s, add a whole garlic bulb with the top sliced off, and toss in olive oil. dd a good pinch of roc salt and some fresh rosemary and thyme, then cover with foil and roast in the oven, 1 0 , for 0 minutes. emove the foil and continue to roast for 1 minutes until golden in colour.

FOOD AND DRINK

Method ust the meat well in the flour, seasoned with salt and pepper. eat the oil in a large pan and brown the meat. o this in batches so that the pan is not overcrowded. emove the meat with a slotted spoon, and add the mushrooms, garlic and chopped onion to the pan. ry for a few minutes in the meat uices. dd the meat bac to the pan and pour in the stoc , enough to ust cover the meat and vegetables. Stir in the tomato puree, rosemary and thyme. op on the lid and simmer on a low heat until the oxtail falls off the bone – about an hour and a half to two hours. emove the oxtail bones. d ust the thic ness of the gravy according to your preference, whether thic ening with a touch of gravy powder or thinning down with a little

more stoc . eave to completely cool. o ma e the suet pastry, mix all the ingredients together to form a dough. oll out two thirds of the dough on a floured surface. rease a yrex pudding basin with butter and line with the rolled out pastry. ill with the cold stew. oll out the remaining third of pastry to form a lid. ampen the edges with water and seal the lid to the pudding. rimp edges to prevent lea age. over with greaseproof paper and then finally tin foil. ie with butcher’s string. lace in a large saucepan filled with water and bring to the boil. Simmer for two to two and half hours, topping up with boiling water from the ettle if necessary. urn out onto plate and serve with red wine gravy and roasted vegetables.

Chocolate cake with red wine glaze Method

FOOD AND DRINK

ngredients For the cake: 2 tablespoons butter, melted 2 cups plus 2 tablespoons flour, divided 2 cups sugar cup plus 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder 2 teaspoons ba ing powder 1 teaspoons ba ing soda 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup mil cup vegetable oil 2 eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 cup boiling water For the red wine glaze: ounces good bittersweet chocolate, chopped stic cup butter, cut into pieces cup powdered confectioner’s sugar cup red wine

ecipe from www.theitaliandishblog.com

reheat oven to 0 . repare the ca e tin by brushing the melted butter all over the surface of the inside of the pan and sprin ling with the two tablespoons of flour and the two tablespoons of cocoa powder and sha ing it all over to coat the inside ap excess out use more if needed . lternatively, you can spray with coo ing spray, but the ca e may not release uite as well. dd two cups flour, sugar, cup cocoa, ba ing powder, ba ing soda and salt to a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer. his thoroughly to combine or, using your paddle attachment, stir through flour mixture until combined well. dd mil , vegetable oil, eggs and vanilla to flour mixture and mix together on medium speed until well combined. educe speed and carefully add boiling water to the ca e tin. eat on high speed for about one minute to add air to the batter. our ca e batter into prepared ca e pan. a e for about minutes, until a toothpic or ca e tester inserted in the centre comes out fairly clean. emove from the oven and allow to cool for about ten minutes, remove from the pan and cool completely. eat chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water bowl should not touch water , stirring, until chocolate and butter are melted, about five minutes. his in powdered sugar. eanwhile, bring wine ust to a boil in a small saucepan. emove chocolate mixture from heat and whis in wine let cool until slightly thic ened and a rubber spatula leaves a trail in mixture when stirring, eight to ten minutes. Set ca e on a wire rac set over a rimmed ba ing sheet. our gla e over ca e and spread it across the top and over the edges with an offset spatula. et ca e stand at room temperature until gla e is set, two to three hours.

mmm 39

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40 mmm

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“TAKE CARE OF YOUR BODY It’s the only place you have to live in” - Jim Rohn

T

here are many different types of diets, like the Atkins diet, the South Beach diet, the Rosemary Conley diet and many more. Most diets limit portions to a very small size or exclude certain foods entirely to promote weight loss - something which may not be effective over the long term.

It is much easier to maintain a diet that takes into account the foods that you like and dislike and also include combinations of foods with enough calories and nutrients for good health.

ATKINS DIET

The Atkins diet is a low-carb, high-protein weight loss programme. You start with a lowcarb diet designed for rapid weight loss. This lasts at least two weeks depending on your weight loss goal. During this phase, you’re on a protein, fat and very low-carb diet, including meat, seafood, eggs, cheese, some veg, butter and oils. In contrast to the Dukan diet, Atkins allows unlimited fat and some veg, such as peppers, cucumber and iceberg lettuce, during phase one. During the next three phases, the weight loss is likely to be more gradual, and regular exercise is encouraged. More carbs, fruit and veg are introduced to your diet with the aim of working out what your ideal carb intake is to maintain a healthy weight for life.

Phase one Research shows eating breakfast is designed helps you control your weight. to help you Some people skip breakfast because lose up they think it will help them lose to 15lb in weight, but missing meals doesn’t two weeks, help us lose weight and isn’t good reducing for us as we can miss out to 2lb to 3lb on essential nutrients. during phase two.

DON’T SKIP BREAKFAST

SLIM-FAST DIET The Slim-Fast diet is a low-calorie meal replacement plan for people with a BMI of 25 and over. It uses Slim-Fast’s range of products. The plan recommends three snacks a day from an extensive list, including crisps and chocolate, two meal replacement shakes or bars and one regular meal, taken from a list of recipes on the Slim-Fast website.

DRY JANUARY You can stay on the diet for as long as you want depending on your weight loss goal. Once reached, you’re advised to have one meal replacement shake a day, up to two low-fat snacks and two healthy meals. The plan is designed to help you lose about 1lb to 2lb a week and you can follow the diet for as long as you want.

Alcohol contains lots of calories.

Cutting this out can have a massive impact on weight loss – not to mention the health benefits too oo much alcohol can mean trouble for our liver, so avoiding alcohol is of course great for our health and our waistline. The problem is that we can overindulge during the festive period because we plan to give our liver a break afterwards. It would be much healthier (albeit not as much fun) if we simply moderated our intake throughout the year.

CUT DOWN ON ALCOHOL

ROSEMARY CONLEY DIET Rosemary Conley’s diet and fitness plans combine a low-fat, low-GI diet with regular exercise.

You can follow her recipes or buy from her range of calorie-controlled ready meals and snacks. You’re encouraged to eat food with 5% or less fat, with the exception of oily fish, porridge oats and lean meat. A network of local Rosemary Conley clubs offer weekly exercise classes, support and motivation. You learn about calorie counting and portion size, which can help you sustain your weight loss beyond the programme. The diet is designed to help you lose a stone in seven weeks. How long you stay on the plan depends on your weight loss goal.

VEGANUARY There are many different ways you can follow a vegan diet. If you remove meat and simply fill up on refined carbohydrates or substitute meat with processed soya or mock meats then you aren’t doing yourself any favours.

However, a vegan approach can be a great start to the year, if done right. Removing meat and focusing on following a high plant based diet packed with raw plant fats, plenty of green leafy vegetables and good

Did you know a standard glass of wine can contain as many calories as a piece of chocolate, and a pint of lager has about the same calorie count as a packet of crisps?

Over time, drinking too much can easily contribute to weight gain. quality protein from foods such as quinoa, spirulina, bean and pulses would be extremely beneficial.

This type of diet would be highly al alising and anti inflammatory.

You may need to add in some B12 supplementation if you’re going to follow this for a longer period.

WEIGHTWATCHERS DIET The WeightWatchers plan is based on the ProPoints system, which gives a value to foods and drin based on protein, carbs, fat and fibre content.

It is essentially a calorie-controlled diet where you get a personal daily ProPoints allowance, which you can use how you like. There’s no limit on the amount of fruit and most veg you can eat. You also get a weekly ProPoints safety net in case you go over your allowance, and an individual exercise plan. he wee ly meetings and confidential weigh-ins provide support and extra motivation to encourage long-term behaviour change. The plan is designed to help you lose up to 2lb a week.

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CAMBRIDGE DIET

5:2 DIET

The 5:2 diet is based on a principle known as intermittent fasting – where you eat normally five days a wee and fast on the other two days. On top of losing weight, fans claim the 5:2 diet can improve lifespan, brain function and protect against conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. However, evidence on the effectiveness of the 5:2 diet is limited when compared to other types of weight loss techniques.

The Cambridge weight plans are based around buying and eating a range of meal-replacement products with the promise of rapid weight

loss. here are six flexible diet plans ranging from 415kcal to 1,500kcal or more a day, depending on your weight loss goal. There is also a long-term weight management programme. The bars, People sometimes confuse thirst with soups, porridges and shakes can be hunger. You can end up consuming used as your sole source of nutrition extra calories when a glass of water or together with low-calorie regular is really what you need. You should meals. While on the programme, you aim to drink about six to eight receive advice and support on healthy glasses 1.2 litres of fluid, preferably eating and exercise from a Cambridge water, every day – or more if it’s adviser. warm or you’re exercising.

DRINK PLENTY OF WATER

LIGHTERLIFE DIET The LighterLife weight loss plans combine a very low-calorie meal replacement diet with weekly counselling. With LighterLife Total, for people with a BMI of 30 or more, you eat four ‘food packs’ a day, consisting of shakes, soups, mousses or bars, and no conventional food.

SOUTH BEACH DIET

The South Beach diet is a low-GI diet originally developed for heart patients in the US. There’s no calorie counting and no limits on portions. You’re encouraged to eat three meals and LighterLife Lite, for those with a BMI of 25-30, two snacks a day and follow an involves eating three food packs a day plus one exercise plan. People who have more meal from a list of approved foods. You stay on than 10lb to lose start with phase one. the plans until you reach your target weight.

This is a two-week quick The meal plans can lead to weight loss regime where very rapid weight loss you eat lean protein, and you’re advised including meat, fish to see your GP and poultry, as well before starting. as some low-GI How long you vegetables and stay on the unsaturated fats.

Knowing how to read food labels can diet depends Low-GI carbs are help you choose healthier options, on how much and keep a check on the amount re-introduced weight you of calories, fat, salt and sugars you eat. during phases two have to lose.

Use the calorie information to work and three, which out how a particular food fits into encourage gradual your daily calorie allowance on and sustainable the weight loss plan weight loss.

READ FOOD LABELS

Note: Before starting a new diet, always seek advice from a medical professional or nutritional expert.

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COLD WEATHER FOODS fresh produce DISCOVER THE VITAMIN RICH VEGETABLES TO BRING TO YOUR TABLE THIS WINTER

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par ly snowfla es, co y blan ets, rich hot chocolate inter has a lot going for it, but fresh produce is usually not on that list. n colder climates, eating locally through the winter can be extremely challenging. very meal doesn’t have to revolve around potatoes and onions until pril. ith a bit of advanced planning and creativity, it’s possible to eat fresh fruits and vegetables with plenty of nutrients and flavour all winter long.

CABBAGE

his super and healthy, budget friendly vegetable is a close cousin to other cold weather favourites li e cauliflower, russels sprouts, ale and broccoli. abbage is full of vitamins and minerals itamins and and folate, in particular , fibre, antioxidants and anti carcinogenic compounds called glucosinolates. Some studies claim that the spherical vegetable can even reduce cholesterol and lower the ris of cancer and diabetes.

Storage tips ightly wrap individual heads of cabbage in plastic and store in the refrigerator to eep fresh for up to a wee . ow to eat it abbage’s nutritional benefits are most pronounced when raw, so slice up a few leaves to add crunch to salads or stir fries.

ONIONS

deal for flavouring anything from soup to salads, to pasta or meat, onions are a year round itchen favourite. hey might ma e you cry, but onions are actually pretty healthy. he unassuming vegetables are low in calories but surprisingly high in vitamin and fibre. he oils found in onions can lower cholesterol levels and raise cholesterol.

Storage tips Store onions outside the fridge they can go soft if refrigerated in a cool, dry place for several months. ow to eat it Saut ed white onion spices up a flatbread pi a.

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BEETS

Sweet, earthy and deep red, beets are pretty unique in the vegetable aisle. Beets contain antioxidants called betalains, which can help fight cancer and other degenerative diseases. They’re also rich in vitamins A, B and C as well as potassium and folate.

They’re also a natural source of sugar (about nine grams per serving), so those looking to cut down on calories should take note.

Storage tips Store beetroots in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to a month. ow to eat it oss roasted beets and carrots with lentils and plenty of fresh herbs and spices to make a hearty, healthy vegetarian main dish.

BRUSSELS SPROUTS

These trendy sprouts are finally getting their turn in the spotlight. i e other cruciferous vegetables, russels sprouts have high levels of cancer fighting antioxidants that can protect from oxidative damage.

Storage tips russels sprouts will eep in the fridge for a few weeks The outer leaves will shrivel, so remove them just before cooking. ow to eat it oss halved sprouts with olive oil and roast until crispy and brown.

Top with a light coating of brown butter and sage for a decadent (but still healthy) side dish.

CELERIAC

eyond the odd exterior, celeriac boasts a tasty, subtle flavour somewhere between parsley and celery and a hearty texture. t’s low in calories, high in fibre, and rich in vitamin a powerful antioxidant) and phosphorus (which contributes to strong bones and teeth).

Storage tips i e other root vegetables, celeriac will stay fresh in the fridge for up to a month. ow to eat it Substitute celeriac for almost any root vegetable. Cube and sautée it for a tasty, healthy replacement for hash browns.

PARSNIPS

These (white) carrot look-alikes are packed with nutritional goodness.

The long, pale, tapered root vegetables are full of fibre, potassium, vitamin , and folate. i e carrots, they have a slightly sweet, earthy flavour that goes well with nearly any winter soup, stew, or casserole. alf a cup of coo ed parsnips contains 17 percent of your recommended daily allowance of vitamin C and just 55 calories.

Storage tips Store parsnips in a bag in the refrigerator for three to four weeks. ow to eat it ombine roasted parsnips with apples (and a few other essential ingredients) for a smooth, full flavoured soup.

HEALTHY EATING

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CARROTS

favourite food which is full of the antioxidant beta carotene, a compound that converts to vitamin in the body. itamin is essential for a strong immune system and healthy eyes, s in, and mucus membranes. he orange vegetables are also loaded with vitamin , cyanidins, and lutein, which are all antioxidants. Some studies show that eating carrots can reduce the ris of cancer and even prevent cardiovascular disease.

Storage tips i e many root vegetables, carrots will eep in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for several wee s. ow to eat it ring out carrots’ natural sweetness with a side dish that combines the orange vegetables, cinnamon, orange uice, and maple syrup.

POTATOES

FRUIT AND VEGETABLE FACTS

eets are in season in temperate climates during autumn and spring, and are available from storage most of the year everywhere else. resh beets are often sold with their greens still attached. arrots are available from winter storage from local growers in many areas, and fresh in warmer and temperate regions. auliflower may be grown, harvested, and sold year round, but it is by nature a cool weather crop and at its best in autumn and winter and into early spring. nions are harvested in the autumn and then cured or dried a bit for storage, which is why we’re used to buying them at the supermar et.

RADICCHIO

adicchio pronounced ra io is a member of the chicory family along with endive and escarole. ts red and white, slightly spicy and bitter leaves are loaded with vitamin , magnesium, potassium and vitamin . lus, this leafy vegetable is extremely low in calories, so add it to any dish for a low calorie dose of crunch and flavour.

Storage tips eep it in the refrigerator wrapped in plastic for up to three wee s. ow to eat it Saut ed radicchio adds a richness and a good serving of vitamins and minerals to any pasta dish.

otatoes are starchy and high on the glycemic index, but they’re also filling, inexpensive, and boast an impressive nutritional profile including potassium, magnesium, folic acid, vitamin , and even protein. urple potatoes may even help to lower blood pressure and boost antioxidants. hile sweet potatoes are considered a healthier choice since they’re loaded with beta carotene, vitamins and , and fibre , regular old white potatoes are still nutritious as long as you don’t fry them or mash them with lots of butter and cream.

Storage tips Store potatoes in a dar , cool, well ventilated area for about one month. eep potatoes away from onions and apples. t room temperature, potatoes will eep for one to two wee s. ow to eat it ry a healthier ta e on the classic ba ed potato bar. wice ba ed potatoes stuffed with ale, broccoli, and cheddar ma e for a comforting meal.

JAPAN

A fabulous holiday destination with Baldwins Travel Group

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hether viewing it from the lofty peaks of Mount Fuji, or from street level when gazing up at the towering skyscrapers of Tokyo – travelling to Japan provides a myriad of sights as unique and diverse as the Land of the Rising Sun itself. apan is a country of magnificent contrasts. Shop at the traditional Nishiki market in Kyoto, or the upscale, luxurious stores of Ginza; eat at tiny, wooden izakayas which seat no more than eight people or indulge yourself at some of the world’s best Michelin-starred restaurants; see the ancient architecture of Matsumoto Castle built in 1440, or witness the aweinspiring sight of the ultra-modern Tokyo Skytree – wherever you go in the country, Japan’s addictive combination of modern and ancient spectacles make it a never-ending goody-bag for sightseers keen to experience something different.

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WHEN TO GO?

Whilst diverse in its regions and landmarks, Japan is also a country of clearly distinct seasons.

Depending on the time of year, Japan can seem like a completely different country. Spring is the time to experience ‘hanami’ (cherry blossom viewing) by sitting under the trees with groups of friends, eating and drinking below the falling pink petals, whilst in autumn people travel up and down the islands to find the best aleidoscope of red, yellow and orange hues visible in the autumn trees. A trip in the midst of snowy winter provides an idyllic paradise of powder snow for winter sports fans, or a photographer’s dream at the several snow, light and igloo festivals up and down the country. Each season offers travellers a new way to experience Japan.

TRAVELLING THE GOLDEN ROUTE

Japan has a number of iconic locations which are a must see for first time travellers. ombining a visit to Tokyo, Mount Fuji and Kyoto brings together the fast-forward thinking and bustle of the metropolis, with the calm of Kyoto’s tranquil temples and zen gardens, topped off with the sublime experience of witnessing ount u i’s snowy crest first hand.

Tokyo is a microcosm of futuristic Japan, and gadget fans from across the world floc to the electronic district of Akihabara to buy the latest technology from world-renowned Japanese brands.

As well as being at the forefront of technology, however, Tokyo holds its own in terms of historical sights – such as Sensoji Temple, Meiji Shrine and the impressive Imperial Palace. These tangible contradictions of old and new mark Tokyo’s fascinating ability to blend contradictions and make them seem perfectly in sync.

Ten minutes in the capital can involve a whirlwind of sights; from the hustle and bustle of Shinjuku – the world’s busiest station, witnessing the scramble of people at Shibuya crossing, taking an early morning stroll through the more secluded, wooded areas of Yoyogi Park, watching the tuna auction at Tsukiji Fish Market, or ordering yakitori and a beer at one of the tiny Golden Gai bars. Even a short stay will give you a taste for Tokyo – busy but orderly, crowded but calm.

Only two hours and twenty minutes away by bullet train, Kyoto is home to an enormous concentration of temples, shrines and postcard-perfect streets waiting to be discovered. The Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji) is a site which brings to life those jawdroppingly stunning photos printed in magazines, whilst the 10,000 bright orange ‘tori’ gates of the ushimi nari shrine are every bit as magnificently vivacious in the flesh. visit to rashiyama on the outskirts of the city is also a must for travellers, where they can receive a warm welcome to Japan from the friendly macaques in the monkey park or witness the towering shoots of the vividly green bamboo forest. Kyoto’s not-to-miss list also includes i o astle, once the home of the o ugawa shogun, a TRAVEL FEATURE

Sanjusangendo Temple, noted for its 1,001 gilded wooden statues of the Goddess of Mercy, and Ryoanji Temple famed for its rock garden.

On this popular route, travellers can head back towards Tokyo in the direction of the coast to visit Hakone, a popular Mt Fuji spotting point and part of the Fuji-Hakone National Park. Whether for a solitary getaway or as part of a trip for two or more, gliding through the leafy mountains on the Hakone Tozan Train – Japan’s oldest mountain railway – offers a sense of the romantic atmosphere inspired by this natural retreat. In Hakone visitors can enjoy a night at a ryokan (a traditional Japanese inn) in a tatami mat room complete with elaborate meals and a dip in a hot spring bath to soothe away the stress of the day and sink into that holiday feeling. Aside from witnessing u i firsthand, a one has its own charms to dazzle visitors with; take a cable car to see the rising volcanic steam from Owakudani, ride a pirate ship across the crystal blue waters of Lake shino o, or experience sa e and coffee flavour baths at the Yunessun Spa.

STEPPING OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Travellers keen to get off the beaten path can explore some of the incredible outdoor activities on offer around the country. Fly just 1 hour 40 minutes north of Tokyo and you’ll reach Hokkaido; a naturelovers paradise, with some of the best ski resorts in

the world. The thick, white powder snow, off piste and night time skiing opportunities at resorts such as Furano and Niseko keep ski and snowboard fans coming back for more, season after season.

For those who prefer to climb up mountains rather than slide down them, summers in Hokkaido are a haven for hi ing fans een to find a slice of untouched nature. Shiretoko National Park on Eastern Hokkaido or Daisetsuzan, Hokkaido’s largest national park, both offer a side to Japan rarely imagined, with an abundance of wildlife and natural sights unique to this area of Japan. a

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Baldwins Travel Group

www.baldwinstravel.co.uk #HolidayInspirations

Baldwins Travel Group

www.baldwinstravel.co.uk #HolidayInspirations

TRAVEL FEATURE

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For those who’d like to explore the Japan of bygone days, Shirakawago in Gifu Prefecture offers visitors a chance to see a rare example of traditional life in Japan, with its tiny villages of steeply pitched, thatched roof houses. Combined with a visit to Takayama ity, where visitors can find rows of Edo period streets lined with iconic wooden merchants homes, Gifu has a lot to offer historical-culture fans.

Venture further south on Japan’s main island and you’ll find a ayama refecture home to the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails, highlighted

by Lonely Planet as one of the best activities in Japan for 2016. This collection of walking trails through the mountains offers travellers access to secluded shrines, temples, majestic waterfalls and an insight into rural life in Japan.

Kumano Nachi Taisha is a particularly photogenic shrine for travellers, where the bursting orange of the Buddhist Seigantoji pagoda is framed by the rushing white waters of Nachi Taisha waterfall in the background, and is well worth the hike.

One of Japan’s best-kept secrets is its secluded beaches and uninhabited southern islands. The subtropical paradise of Okinawa, home of karate, is a honeymoon and beach getaway haven, where the shimmering blue waters offer some of the best diving opportunities in the country. Naha (the capital of Okinawa) is a springboard for some of the more secluded islands. A visit to Kume-jima, just 90km off the coast of Naha, offers uninterrupted diving or snorkelling, or take a boat tour from Zamami-jima to Gahi-jima islet in the erama sland group to find a secluded slice of earthly paradise.

A TASTE OF THE CULTURE AND CUISINE

In spite of the chosen location, any visit to Japan guarantees travellers a wealth of new experiences and an insight into the well-preserved rituals and traditions that have endured there for centuries. Tea ceremonies are a great way to ease into Japanese culture, where you’ll enjoy the combination of bitter matcha and taste-bud tingling Japanese sweets offered by a kimono-clad lady. Sightseers travelling during sumo seasons can also watch these mighty wrestlers battle it out in their elaborate matches.

Traditional arts such as kabuki theatre performances, which haven’t changed for hundreds of years, are also a telescope into the country’s past.

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No trip to Japan is complete without the surprise of finding new favourite flavours and indulging in some of the world’s finest cuisine. hilst most visitors will be somewhat acquainted with fresh sashimi, tempura or handmade sushi, few will have realised the sheer range of dishes which are enjoyed daily by Japanese people – from warming apanese curry rice, flavoursome ramen noodles topped with seasoned egg and pork, to the colourful array of dishes served as part of any ‘kaiseki’ (elaborate seasonal and regional tasting menus) cuisine.

GETTING THERE

irect 12 hour flights from the to apan are available from London to Tokyo with BA, JAL and . f flying indirectly to apan you can travel from regional airports around the to o yo, sa a, Nagoya, Sapporo or Fukuoka airports in Japan with the li es of ir rance, athay acific, apan irlines, British Airways, Finnair, KLM and Turkish Airlines.

With the combination of the strong pound and weak yen, it’s a fantastic time to take the opportunity to experience this diverse and culturally unique country, which was declared one of the cheapest long-haul destinations in the world by ost ffice Money in 2015. No matter what motivates you to travel—an interest in history, cutting-edge technology, cuisine, ancient or contemporary architecture, nature, shopping, unique cultural pursuits, you name it—Japan has it all.

© NT Andrew Butler

© NT Jonathan Buckley

NATIONAL TRUST EVENTS

dates to note for your diary

Chartwell – Into the trenches

Emmetts Garden – Garden tours

Monday 18th January to Sunday 21st February 10am - 4pm

Monday 29th February to Friday 13th May at 2pm

100 years after Sir Winston Churchill served at the Front in the First World War, this new exhibition explores his early military career from cavalry charges to the trenches and beyond.

Chartwell – Mother’s Day afternoon tea

Meet one of the garden team at the Discovery Cabin for a guided tour.

Ightham Mote – Roast and ramble

Saturday 5th to Sunday 6th at 3.30pm

Treat mum to a special afternoon tea in the Mulberry room. Afternoon tea £13.95 per person.

Pink sparkling afternoon tea £19.95 per person. Children age 5 to 12 at £8.95.

Chartwell – Cadbury Easter egg hunt

Sunday 24th January, 14th and 28th February at 10am

Join an informal walk followed by lunch in the Mote Café.

Ightham Mote – Mother’s Day

Friday 25th March to Sunday 10th April at 11am - 4pm

Sunday 6th March at 11am - 3.30pm

Make mum feel special by giving her a handmade flower.

Knole – Family Monday Monday 15th February at 11am - 3pm

Family guided winter walk in Knole Park.

Knole – Hidden animals house trail

The chick and the egg - discover Easter characters from the 1920s on an adventure around Chartwell. £2 per trail.

Emmetts Garden – Volunteer coffee morning

Friday 25th March to Sunday 10th April at 10am - 3.30pm

xplore the house, find the hidden animals and learn more about Knole’s fascinating history.

Owletts – Half-term family fun

Tuesday 19th January at 10.30am 12.30pm

Ever thought of becoming a volunteer? Drop in for a cup of tea and discover the variety of opportunities available.

Monday 15th, Friday 19th February at 12noon - 4pm

Family guided winter walk in Knole Park. © NT Jonathan Buckley

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Quebec House – Volunteer coffee morning Saturday 23rd January at 10.30am - 12.30pm

Ever thought of becoming a volunteer? Drop in for a cup of tea and discover the variety of opportunities available.

Quebec House – Tours Wednesday 2nd March to Sunday 1st May at 12noon and 12.30pm

Join a guided tour and discover the stories of Quebec House and its most famous occupant.

Quebec House – Cadbury Easter egg hunt Friday 25th to Monday 28th March at 11am - 4pm

Look for hidden eggs and soldiers in the garden and collect a Cadbury egg. £2 per trail.

Scotney Castle – Arthur’s War Until Sunday 31st January at 11am - 3pm

Exhibition on the life of Brigadier General Arthur Hussey during the First World War. Scotney Castle – Connections, corridors and whips Saturday 13th and Saturday 20th February at 11.30am and 1.30pm

Ranger-led short walk to learn about the hedgerow project. Plant some whips to leave your legacy on the landscape.

Scotney Castle – Scotney compass challenge Tuesday 29th March to Sunday 10th April at 10am - 5pm

an your family find their way with a compass Solve the clues to find the directions in our compass challenge. £1 per trail.

Sissinghurst Castle Garden – International garden photographer of the year exhibition Saturday 16th January and Sunday 28th February

See a collection of imagery from this international exhibition.

Sissinghurst Castle Garden – Hedge laying course Friday 12th February at 9.30am - 4pm

Hands-on course to learn this traditional woodland skill. Lunch and refreshments provided.

© NT Antony Crolla

© NT Joe Cornish

© NT John Miller

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Sissinghurst Castle Garden – Early bird walk Saturday 19th March and 23rd April at 7am

Grab your binoculars and walking boots and enjoy an early morning guided walk, £12.50.

Sissinghurst Castle Garden – Cadbury Easter egg hunt Friday 25th March to Monday 28th March

Walk through your favourite nursery rhymes, and see Vita Sackville-West’s Nursery Rhyme book in the library too.

Sissinghurst Castle Garden – Bluebell and wildflower walks Saturday 30th April and 2nd May at 2pm

Seasonal guided walks with a Ranger, followed by a cream tea in the restaurant, £12.50.

Smallhythe Place – Behind the scenes tour Every Saturday from 5th March at 2.30pm

Enjoy a free tour of the costume store.

Smallhythe Place – The Summer Theatre Company: Celebrating Shakespeare

© NT Andrew Butler

Saturday 23rd April at 7.30pm

Celebrating Shakespeare explores the beauty of Shakespeare’s language on the 450th anniversary of his death.

The White Cliffs of Dover and South Foreland Lighthouse near Dover - Volunteer open day Wednesday 27th January and Friday 12th February at 10am - 2pm

What’s it like to volunteer for the National Trust?

Pop into South Foreland Lighthouse for an informal chat with staff and volunteers, who will reveal all.

The White Cliffs of Dover and South Foreland Lighthouse near Dover - White Cliffs plant fair Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th May 10am - 4pm

The 16th annual plant fair is promising to be the best yet. Normal car park charge applies. © NT John Miller

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Catkins Holiday Home for Cats, Faversham Road, Charing.

One of Kents most established catteries is now taking summer bookings.

Unashmed luxury offered for your feline friends. Collection and delivery possible.

Please call Sarah or Kerry to discuss your cats individual requirments on

01233 713831 www.catkinsholidayhome.co.uk

FIGHTING FIT FROM a rags to riches life DUNCAN BANNATYNE ON THE HIGHS OF HIS BUSINESS SUCCESS AND LOWS OF HIS COSTLY DIVORCE

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lydebank on the outer edges of Glasgow is a tough, no-nonsense industrial town; built up via the ship building industry and on a wave of socialist principles.

So it is perhaps little wonder that it was the town in which Duncan Bannatyne originated amidst the fires of the doc yards and heavy industry.

He is a living, breathing example of how far a man can go when driven by ambition and a focused determination.

From humble beginnings he has risen to become a businessman worth tens of millions of pounds and with a media career which makes him an instantly recognisable face. It could be argued he is beaten only by Lord Sugar and Sir Richard Branson as the nation’s most famous entrepreneur.

His role in Dragons’ Den on the BBC made him much mimicked – and admired - for his hard-nosed approach. And his recent appearance in ITV’s I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here underlined his celebrity status.

What’s more, his range of health clubs – which bear his name – are perhaps the best known in the UK. Today, his net worth is said to be a cool £180 million. Yet prior to a messy and hugely expensive divorce, it peaked four years ago at a staggering £430 million. t was in 2011 when his five year marriage to oanne was felled by a text he received. e explained ’d ust finished filming the ninth series of Dragons’ Den when she sent me a text. y hands started to sha e as read it, she said she had filed for divorce in the High Court.

“I couldn’t take it in, in part because I couldn’t believe that after 18 years together she didn’t tell me in person.

“I know people always think you would know if your wife or husband was planning a divorce, but I really, truly didn’t have a clue. ot only did it crush me financially the Sunday imes ich List showed my wealth falling from £430 million to million in two years but the psychological damage was far worse.” a

He admits to having dark suicidal thoughts as he faced up to the break-up – considering hurling himself under a train. e was no stranger to divorce. e split with first wife Gail back in 1994, a woman he says he still has “so much respect for” in the manner in which she handled the break-up.

He had admitted to her he no longer loved her, bringing an end to a 10-year marriage which had spawned four daughters; all now adults.

“Gail was – and is – a wonderful woman,” he admits. e doesn’t hold such affection for oanne c ue, however. Some 17 years younger than him, she was a nursing manager at one of the string of care homes he built up and owned.

She befriended him after his separation from Gail and by the time his divorce had been finalised they were an item.

They had two children – a boy and girl – and married in 2006.

But as his celebrity rose, they found themselves spending more and more time apart until it ground to a halt.

The full terms of the divorce were kept, legally, under wraps. But Bannatyne was clearly sore at the enormous cost.

He explained: “What I can say is the legal fees alone cost £4m. By the end of the divorce I was back to living on credit cards.

The money I spent could have built several schools in Haiti.

“It was such a bruising experience that I really feel a prenup should be as much a part of the wedding planning as hiring a venue or choosing flowers.

Now 66, he started dating a 35-year-old dental nurse in the summer of 2015.

But his private life should never obscure his professional success story.

He was born on February 2nd, 1949. His father was a soldier during the Second World War and was one of the captured troops forced to work on the urma railway after being captured by the apanese.

As he explains: “As the second of seven children from the Clydebank area, I had an incredibly poor childhood, which affected me hugely.

“I didn’t just share a room with my brothers, I shared a bed. My father worked long hours in the local Singer sewing machine factory to provide for us, but there was hardly ever anything left over. I wanted something different and realised the route out of poverty was to work hard.”

I left my job in a bakery and bought an ice cream van for £450.

Before long I had half-a-dozen vans and a turnover of £350,000 a year

“

”

He was 11 when he started out by persuading the local shopkeeper to give him a paper round. He’s never looked back since.

“The lady who ran the local paper shop said she would only give me a round if I produced the names of 100 potential customers, so I walked the streets coldcalling until I had a list.”

Leaving school at 15 with no ualifications – he admitted he had only enjoyed woodwork and PE – he worked as a cabinet maker before joining the Royal Navy.

He left at 19 on the end of a dishonourable discharge for throwing an officer off a etty in Scotland a ruse to get out of a service he says he had become disillusioned by.

It was a stunt which cost him his liberty for nine months after he was locked up the Colchester military detention centre.

What followed was a string of varied jobs and roles ranging from hospital porter to tractor repairman.

He even set up an ice-cream business.

“I left my job in a bakery,” he recalls, “and bought an ice cream van for £450. Before long I had half-a-dozen vans and a turnover of £350,000 a year. I later sold the business for £28,000 and started building and running residential care homes. It was a boom time for private nursing, and after floating the company, Quality Care Homes, on the stock market, I sold it in 1996 for £26m.”

The big-hearted Scot has certainly not put all his hard-earned cash into his own back pocket over the years.

His Bannatyne Charitable Trust has helped focus his charity activities to support a group of worthy causes which have a positive impact on the lives of people across the world.

So far more than £2.4m has been donated to causes as diverse as fighting S, a

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Intriguing, unique and durable wooden Outdoor Retreats to

suIt all OccasIOns

smoking shelters, BBQ, Patio, Jacuzzi and poolside tables l solid Oak tables, Benches and chairs l Built from timber sourced only from sustainable Fsc approved forests l Planning permission required l Minimum disruption and built in a day! l

mail@therusticcompany.com

07946 135441 www.therusticcompany.com

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An APPROVED specialist bathroom showroom with MANY WORKING DISPLAYS

Unit 2, 2M Trade Park, Beddow Way, Aylesford ME20 7BT Monday to Friday - 7.30am - 5.00pm Saturday - 8.30am - 4.00pm

01622 791791 gary@askplumbing.co.uk

www.askplumbing.co.uk

01634 686868

HOMESTYLE UPDATES spruce up your home Amara

John Rocha laundry bin £60.00 Debenhams

Selina black vase £50.00 House of Fraser

Metallic throw £85.00 House of Fraser

GRANITE Transformations

IS YOUR KITCHEN DÉCOR GOING OUT OF FASHION? TIRED OF YOUR OLD KITCHEN WORKTOPS?

Are those cabinet doors looking jaded?

Is your décor out of style, but you can’t afford new fitted units? hen what you need is a complete kitchen makeover. Reface your work surfaces, replace your doors and drawer fronts, and add some sparkle with glass mosaic splashbacks. Better yet, all this can be finished in a day or two, with no ripping out, no mess, no household disruption and no s ip filled with builder’s waste.

How is this possible? Well, it’s time to talk to the kings of kitchen makeovers, Granite Transformations.

They can reface your existing work surfaces with beautiful new worktops made from Italian granite, uart or recycled glass. hey can fit made to measure woodgrain or high gloss cabinet doors in place of the existing ones. Then magically install handcrafted glass mosaic splashbacks over your old tiles. f your itchen loo s li e it’s finally out of fashion, then Granite Transformations have many exciting colours and finishes to add est to your d cor. o preview how it might look, you can even download an iGranite design app from the iTunes store, then overlay a photo of your own kitchen with a whole range of new surfacing effects.

T

ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

In the kitchen , black worktops are still the trend setters, which go with almost any door colour, and Granite Transformations have these in a choice of designs and materials, as well as various tones of laid bac white and off white. r you could opt for fashionable earthen tones or desert shades, even bright primary colours in eco chic recycled glass.

Whatever your choice, their slimline dimensions mean they’ll fit neatly over your existing wor tops, while the beautiful diamond polished finish will withstand the toughest knocks and keep their luxurious appearance for years.

With current fashions in kitchen doors focusing on simple muted colours in plain styles, you might want to exchange dar wood fittings for high gloss acrylic faced doors in cream or white, or perhaps simple shaker styles in plum or lissa oak woodgrains. You could even go for different colours and effects at different levels, teaming say aubergine coloured drawers with cream cabinet doors and a textured effect on the wall units.

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Remember too that those unseen cabinet carcases contribute almost half the cost of a new fitted itchen, so by preserving them and refacing with made to measure wor tops and doors, you are saving money. It means you don’t have to change the familiar kitchen layout either or rip out plumbing, sink unit and electrical wiring. Although replacement taps, sinks and appliances are still an option.

If you ever fancied the classy look of Italian handcrafted glass mosaic tiles, then Granite ransformations can fit those too, using a special process that cuts the installation process drastically and produces a perfect finish every time. hether it’s a four inch splashbac running around the worktop, a mosaic panel extending all the way to the base of wall units, or feature cladding for an alcove or oven recess, the magic of mosaics will add an unmistakable sparkle.

There’s also another bonus to Granite Transformations’ makeover service. They employ their own s illed fitters and carry out all the preparatory fabrication work in their own workshops. So they’ll visit once to measure up, then return later to install everything in a day or two,

three tops if there are fancy splashbacks. There are usually only a couple of fitters involved, not a group of different tradesmen cluttering up your kitchen, and everything is carried out to the highest standard of workmanship, with an unbeatable lifetime guarantee on the worktops and material warranties on other finishes.

Seeing is believing, so to appreciate the quality of Granite Transformations’ materials, visit their showroom in Maidstone and ask to look at the whole collection. There’s plenty to choose from and, at around a third the price of a new fitted itchen, you can afford a complete makeover without breaking the bank. You should also know that an updated kitchen adds value to your property and is a key selling point, so it’s a great investment too.

Further enquiries to: Granite Transformations Maidstone Newnham Court Shopping Village Bearsted Road Maidstone ME14 5LH (01622) 297371 ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

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Property

Dymchurch

£585,000

On the market for only the fourth time in its history, this elegant Edwardian home gently infuses the style of yesteryear with the convenience of the modern age.

From the balcony of the master bedroom there are views across the English Channel, you also have delightful wal s along the sea wall and with five bedrooms, large conservatory coupled with it’s close proximity to Dymchurch the village by the sea, this is a home that you will enjoy watching your family grow up in.

Wye

Pluckley

A large four bedroom detached family home set in approx. 7 acres of grounds including equestrian facilities enjoying stunning views across the Weald.

£340,000 High Street, Charing

beautiful bedroom first floor duplex style apartment forming part of a traditional Kentish oast, located on the outskirts of the desirable village of Wye.

£900,000

£350,000

A beautiful three bedroom cottage situated in Charing High Street believed to date from the 17th century oozing character and charm and available with no onward chain.

www.andrewandco.co.uk

Reactive Building & Maintenance Services About Overbury Property Group

Overbury Estates was originally set up as a family business to look after and manage our own rental portfolio.

We have been in the property business in excess of 30 years and have been redeveloping properties for the last 25 years to include anything from a basic refurbishment to a complete rebuild. As the Overbury Property Group continues to grow, we now employ the majority of our workforce who are all experienced tradesmen in their own right.

Before

After

Why Choose Overbury

After

Before

How Overbury Works

Once you have made contact with us, we will book in to see you so that we can have a look and find out more about what is needed. We will then send in the relevant people from our team of professionals for a closer look and to get a feel for the cost involved. We can then send out a quote to you and, once done, our dedicated staff will book everyone in when needed in line with your project. Overbury Property Group will be the one point of contact throughout your project to answer all your questions along the way. Having featured on Homes Under The Hammer, this really underlines the quality and true professionalism of our business.

No matter how big or small a job that’s needed or how diverse your project might be, Overbury Property Group are very proud to have the experienced team of professionals to give you exactly what your property needs. Very simply, with just one point of contact for all of our services, we will project manage your job from start to finish to ensure a wonderful end result and a stress free process!

Our services

Meet Our Team

Alongside our own fantastic staff, we employ professional qualified contractors who are registered in their own field of expertise with their relevant governing bodies such as gas safe for all gas appliances, boilers and the like or NIC/EIC electrical engineers for all domestic household electrical installation or appliances.

Alarm & fire safety systems; basement conversions; bathrooms; boiler repairs; brickwork; building surveying; carpentry of all types; doors; drainage and maintenance; fencing; flat roofs; flooring carpets, hardwood, laminate and lino; footings; garages; garden clearances; gas safety; heating; kitchens supplied and fitted; legionnaires disease; NIC/ EIC registered electricians; painting and decorating; patios and driveways; pipe work; planning permission; plastering; plumbing repairs; renovations; restoration; rewiring; roofing; rubbish clearances; sash windows; staircases; tiling; window repairs and replacement... and much more!

43a High Street, Newington, Kent ME9 7JR • T: 01795 842206 E: info@overburypropertyconsultants.co.uk • W: www.overburypropertygroup.com • BATHROOMS • KITCHENS • EXTENSIONS • FLOORING • RENOVATIONS • DECORATING

Now there is more than one way to sell your house...

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High street service/Online prices Choose the service that suits you

SALE FEE

Our simple and transparent fee structure allows you to choose the service that suits you: 1% of the sale price achieved plus VAT for our full high street agency service with a dedicated experienced professional agent handling all stages from listing to completion or a fixed fee of £800 plus VAT for our online agency style service.

£800 ONLINE FEE

Lords Wood Lane, Chatham, ME5 So many features in this dream house including hot tub, games room, large kitchen / diner that is perfect for entertaining, conservatory, dressing room, en-suite bathrooms, gated in and out driveway for 4 cars and solar thermal hot water system. This amazing property is split level and has lots of space and so many options, currently being used as a five bedroom family home, but could easily be used with six or seven bedrooms. The master bedroom is an extremely good size and has a dressing room as well as an en-suite. If you have a large established family or a growing one and you need a lot of rooms then look no further than this house.

Poynder Drive, Snodland, ME6 A simply stunning executive family home located on the highly sought after Holborough Lakes development in quiet cul de sac, this impressive four / five bedroom executive detached family home.

The accommodation is situated over three levels and comprises to the ground floor of an entrance hallway, cloakroom, well proportioned lounge opening to garden, an open-plan contemporary kitchen/dining room.

Part of the worlds largest estate agency group

Century 21 Maidstone, Union Street, Maidstone, ME14 1ED

01622 600 300

Established local agent with a shop in Maidstone town centre and a experienced team of negotiators

maidstone@century21uk.com

For a free and non-obligational market appraisal of your property at a time convenient to you please call or email us

www.century21uk.com

All prices excluding VAT

If you have instructed another agent, the terms and conditions of those instructions must be considered to avoid a possible liability to pay two commissions in addition to any withdrawal fees or disbursments

SALES

•

LETTING

•

COMMERCIAL

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Waters Edge Property - Waters Edge Address - Waters Edge, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6SG Bedrooms - Five Bathrooms - 2.5 (one en-suite) Price - £795,000 Waters Edge Do you need the convenience of a town centre location but require a detached home with a generous garden and double garage? Perhaps you have a pleasure boat, en oy river fishing or simply are looking for something out-of-the-ordinary? If so, this spacious home offering the opportunity to enjoy 18 metres of private bank on the River Medway at the bottom of its garden will be worth adding to your New Year viewing list.

The property is set on a private cul-de-sac with ample parking to the front and boasts a detached double garage. The River Medway’s Millennium Bridge crossing to retail and leisure facilities is a short walk away as are Maidstone’s town centre and its 3 train stations. Rail travel time from Maidstone West by high speed service to London St Pancras is 53 mins and from Maidstone East station to London Victoria is 1 hour 5 minutes.

Behind its Arts and Crafts style facade the property comprises an entrance hallway with stone floor leading to the stairs and through glazed double

doors to a dual aspect lounge with patio doors to the garden and gas stove fire in an inglenoo bric surround. Doors off the hallway lead to the study, guest cloa room and the itchen. he stone floored

itchen has fitted wall and floor units, double Rangemaster oven and hob with extractor hood and one and a half bowl ceramic sink and plenty of room for a dining table. An archway leads to the dining room family room with its oa floor. ff the itchen is the utility room with stone floor, fitted wall and floor units, one and a half bowl ceramic sink, plumbing for a dishwasher, plumbing for a washing machine and a door to the rear garden.

n the first floor the landing has a charming seating area beneath the window and doors lead to the five bedrooms and family bathroom. he master bedroom benefits from an en suite shower room.

To the rear a mature and carefully landscaped terraced garden features areas of lawn, patio and decking extending to the bank of the River Medway.

The river bank at the end of the garden offers the possibility to watch the passing rowers and pleasure boats in a remarkably calm setting for a town centre location or those fortunate enough to own their own boat can set sail!

This tranquil setting is made all the more refreshing given the proximity to Maidstone’s extensive retail, restaurant and leisure offering. Major retailers in the town centre include M&S and House of Fraser.

The County Town’s restaurant offering centres on Earl Street, the home of the Hazlitt Theatre, with a balance of national chains and local speciality outlets represented as well as a mix of pubs and nightclubs and all of this is just a short walk (or boat ride) from Waters Edge.

Viewing is strictly by appointment with Century21 Maidstone.

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01634 722 232

PROPERTY FEATURE

www.cousinslettings.co.uk

More than just Estate Agents Sibley Pares Residential, estate agents and letting agents in Maidstone, Kent offer a range of property services including u RESIDENTIAL SALES u LETTINGS u PROPERTY MANAGEMENT u VALUATIONS

along

with

our

Commercial

and

Surveying

Departments.

RUMWOOD COURT

Four bedroom apartment within the exclusive Elizabethan Manor House, set in landscaped grounds stretching approximately 11 acres. Found between Maidstone and Sutton Valence this unique property is approached by a sweeping gravel driveway behind electronic gates. There is a grand, communal entrance hall with original features dating back to the 16th century. The apartment is set over two floors and offers spacious rooms with stunning views across the gardens. ÂŁ1700.00pcm

HIGH HALDEN

etached house with high uality finishes, in village location, just 3 miles from Tenterden. Landscaped garden to the rear, garage and driveway. There is open plan living space on the ground floor, with bedrooms, en-suite shower room and family bathroom located on the first floor. 1100.00pcm

We’re The Property Professionals with experts in all aspect of property As part of the long established Sibley Pares group, we offer our clients a high standard of professionalism and customer service. Our team of experienced letting agents and estate agents will guide you through every step of the process and can offer expert advice on buying and selling in this region.

T: 01622 692206 E: enquiries@sibleypares.co.uk

www.sibleypares.co.uk | 1 Ashford Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 5BJ

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Including ALL types of FENCING

Covering all aspects of Fencing Tarmac Surfacing, Hot Tar and Gravel, Block Paving and Anti Slip Surfacing

ASPIRE RESIN SPECIALISTS Specialising in resin driveways, paths and patio’s

A L L W O R K S GUARANTEED SPECIAL OFFERS for Autumn Winter

Please call 0 7 8 8 4

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or email Aspireresindriveways@gmail.com

to arrange a FREE QUOTATION

Saturday - 8.30am - 4.00pm

01622 791791 gary@askplumbing.co.uk

www.askplumbing.co.uk mmm 67

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JANUARY

SALE 1st of DECEMBER

‘‘A family run business now in our 45th YEAR of supplying quality BATHROOMS to the trade and public.”

We have completed the REFURBISHMENT of our extensive and up-to-date showroom in Chatham, Kent.

We offer MONTROSE fitted bespoke furniture.

With our CAD DESIGN SERVICE we are able to draw to scale your BATHROOM. You will be able to VIEW before you BUY.

4 Third Avenue, Chatham Kent, ME5 0AD

01634 813813 info@morrisandturner.co.uk www.morrisandturner.co.uk

JANUARY the coldest month THIS MONTH, YOUR GARDEN COULD NEED PROTECTING FROM FROSTS, GALE-FORCE WINDS AND HEAVY RAIN

GENERAL

ll leaves that have fallen, along with the ones under bushes and hedges, should be cleared away as they give protection for snails and slugs during the winter months. lso remember that falling leaves can clog up greenhouse gutters. ll the ra ed up leaves may be left to rot down in a leaf bin. o let in more light, the greenhouse roof can be washed down removing dirt and grime. t is also a good idea to empty and clean water butts. rays and pots can be cleaned ready for use. nother idea is for tools and e uipment such as lawnmowers to be cleaned and serviced.

TOP 10 jobs this MONTH ecycle your hristmas tree by shredding it for mulch entilate the greenhouse on sunny days ig over any vacant plots that have not been dug already epair and re shape lawn edges nspect stored tubers of ahlia, egonia and anna for rots or drying out rune apple and pear trees Start forcing rhubarb lan your vegetable crop rotations for the coming season eep putting out food and water for hungry birds repare a polythene shelter for outdoor peaches and nectarines, to protect them from peach leaf curl

ny areas of ground that are presently empty can be dug over for ing in plenty of rotted manure or compost, should conditions prove wet a polythene sheet can be used to cover the area helping to eep any further rain off, then once the soil has dried out digging can begin again. o improve drainage and reduce waterlogging, stand planted patio pots up on feet so that they are slightly raised from direct contact with the ground. lso during very cold spells move them to a sheltered position.

FLOWERS

Sowings can be made of antirrhinum, begonia, geranium, gloxinia, lobelia, sweet pea and verbena. Some perennial plants such as anemone, auricular, a uilegia, hollyhoc and niphofia can also be sown at this time.

Sweet peas that have been raised from autumn sowings can be encouraged to form sideshoots by pinching out the seedling tips. ut down flowering perennials to ground level. ny newly planted perennials or winter bedding that have been lifted by frost should be firmed bac in. hen leaf shoots begin to show on crocuses, remove the pots from the beds where they had been placed, clean the pots of any old compost and place them in a cold greenhouse for the flowers to develop. are rooted roses can continue to be planted. o avoid disease refrain from planting new roses where old ones have been removed from. owever, the exception to this is if the soil has been replaced and conditioned.

VEGETABLES

Seed potatoes should be stored in trays, in a light, cool, frost free place to get ready for planting in arch or pril. Sowings can still be made of broad bean uadulce laudia and he Sutton under cloches if conditions are suitable. n the greenhouse, sowings can be made of aubergine and summer maturing cauliflower. n colder parts of the country, and for exhibition, sowings of onion should be made in the greenhouse, harden off the plants in arch prior to planting outdoors in pril. repare a deep trench, for where runner beans are to be grown next summer, by digging out and filling with rotted compost from your compost bin, plus during winter you can carry on adding itchen waste. hen in late spring cover with soil and sow your beans on top.

TREES AND SHRUBS

ew plantings should be protected from the wind by erecting a shelter around them. ove container shrubs being over wintered into a cold greenhouse, cold frame or you could even use bubble plastic and plant ac ets giant fleece bags to wrap or place your pots in as they will all give protection. leece or netting should be used to protect vulnerable plants from severe frost. ree ties and sta es should be chec ed for loosening. se wire netting to protect outdoor seedbeds, pots and trays from damage by s uirrels. lue bands can be applied around tree trun s to control pests such as the winter moth.

BULBS

o prolong the flowering period of winter flowering houseplants avoid droughts and any dry places such as near fires or radiators, by eeping them in good light and a cool position. o prevent disease remove dead leaves from foliage of plant. emove any dead flowers on cyclamen and a aleas to prolong their flowering period. affodils and hyacinths can be force fed to build up bulbs. rior to bulbs appearing spread mulch over the flower borders and also around shrubs. ippeastrum bulbs can be planted in free draining compost and placed somewhere warm, eg shelf over a radiator, encouraging strong root development along with flowering. o not leave them standing in water. ulbs, corms and tubers that are being ept in store should be chec ed regularly for signs of deterioration or rot.

PONDS AND WILD BIRDS

eave netting in place that was put over ponds last month so as to prevent any falling leaves from going in. lso if any filters or pumps haven’t been removed yet it may be worthwhile doing so thereby avoiding any damage from free ing water during cold winter spells. emember to provide a supply of food again this month for all the birds who visit our shores from colder countries.

‘THE TWITCH INN’ echoes from the past ‘DOUCES MANOR’ IN WEST MALLING. ROBIN J BROOKS RECALLS ITS USE BY THE ROYAL AIR FORCE AND THE HISTORY THEY LEFT BEHIND

B

y1 , est alling was firmly established as the premier night fighter station in ighter ommand. ith the departure of o. 2 S uadron on ay 1 th after a stay of over three years, they were replaced the same day by o.

S uadron. ow flying the e avilland os uito they had left unsdon after a spectacular farewell during the morning and had settled into est alling by nightfall. ith the ground crews and administration personnel arriving by plane and train, they were met by the station commander, ing ommander eter ownsend, before being allocated their various messes. ith the policy of personnel living off the base in case of attac , ’ light were to be housed in two houses in est alling nown as he etreat and he uest ouse’ respectively, whilst ’ light were to go to a large manor house a short distance from the airfield nown as amptons’. or the officers however another large mansion house had been re uisitioned ust outside est alling village. nown as ouces anor’ after the first owner, homas ugustus ouce, it was more popularly nown as the anor’. n 1 16 it was bought by the trustees of rederic ndrews and converted into a convalescent home for elderly and genteel ladies’ with the rule it would only accept them if they were capable of wal ing upstairs without assistance

o.

S uadron was commanded by the legendary ing ommander ohn unningham . nown to all as atseyes unningham’ due to the fact that he was a most successful night fighter pilot, the press of the day attributing this asset to the many carrots that he ate his was something that was to follow him all his life. n preparation for the arrival of the s uadron anything of value was ta en away and stored, whilst plaster board was placed around the walls to protect the ornate plastering. t was however the conversion of the vast cellar that became the centre of attention when it was transformed into a bar cum nightclub. aining the name he witch nn’ it soon ac uired an atmosphere of its own. he addition of soft lighting and comfortable seating together with ample stores of wine, spirits and beer made it the ideal place to relax after operations. very night the witch’ would echo to the sounds of revelry as the thought of death in the air was banished. hen the weather was fine and night operations were on, a dice was placed upon the bar indicating that someone was dicing with death in the air. hen the weather was bad and no flying was possible, a scrubbing brush replaced it indicating that operations were scrubbed. n these occasions the bar was open until the early hours or when dawn appeared. a

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lue la ue awarded to the witch nn alling eritage entre

The entrance to the Twitch Inn HISTORY FEATURE

t was then a drive bac to the airfield through the lush, green orchards of ent to await the next night’s sorties. he assistant catering officer at est alling during 1 was elen yson, a warrant officer in the . fter finishing her days wor at the station, she would cycle to the anor ouse to supervise the evening dinner. he only other female allowed into the officers domain was a named ina who served behind the bar of the witch. ne of her hobbies was reading palms, something that became a regular occurrence. hat was until one evening whilst reading the palm of a pilot she stopped suddenly and clasped his hands in hers, refusing to carry on. few wee s later the pilot and crew were illed when their os uito crashed. his would happen on another occasion after which the practice was abandoned. ne of the regular visitors was the cartoonist avid angdon. e was a former intelligence officer with S uadron and regularly paid visits to his old s uadron. n these occasions he drew some of the characters within on the hardboard panels that had been put in place to protect the walls. uring that summer of 1 the sun shone incessantly. he crews after a night sortie would watch the dawn approach until the time came for them to fall into their beds until the afternoon when once again they would prepare for the nights operations. Success in shooting down enemy planes seemed to come easily to the s uadron, a success that bought the national press to est alling to interview some of the aircrews and ground crews. ne paper of the day hailed the s uadron as invincible and again, attributed the success of ohn a

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Inn’ is once again its former self.

Cunningham in particular to the The interior of the bar The inscribed ceiling has been fact that he loved carrots! Fame covered in plastic in order to also bought guests to the preserve it and photographs Manor House on dining-in and the history of RAF West nights. One of the favourites Malling squadrons adorn the was Lieutenant Colonel walls. It is open to the public Sir Albert Stern KBE CMG on certain days of the year who presented a Victory when volunteers are present Cup to John Cunningham to talk about the history, not and Wing Commander only of the Twitch but of the Peter Townsend on behalf manor itself. of the people of Kent for their There is a certain magic and continued success in shooting mystery about the ‘Twitch Inn’ and down the enemy at night. When the Manor which is aptly described nobility was not present at dining-in by a lady who knew the house very well. night’s things sometimes got out of hand.

‘I wonder how many people have walked up Such as the occasion when someone suggested the front drive on an autumn evening and seen a that the squadron should leave an indelible sign of very large arvest moon reflected in the la e, owls their occupation in the Twitch. This was achieved hooting over by the church and everywhere bathed by using burning candles to scorch a name on in moonlight. It was magic and a memory I just the plaster ceiling and, if the full ceremonial cannot forget’. Maybe the ghosts of those airmen procedure was followed, the correct way was to who lived in the Manor and died in the cause of have the candle strapped to your foot and then to freedom still walk those grounds. be supported by your comrades in order to write

BY ROBIN J BROOKS your name. In a particular corner amongst all the male signatures is the name of a female. There is no knowledge of just how she achieved this. Perhaps it was Nina’s!

When 85 Squadron left West Malling in May 1944 it followed the biggest farewell party ever seen at the Twitch. They were replaced by No. 96 Squadron who were followed by various other units until the end of the war in May 1945. With this an eerie silence fell upon the Manor and in particular the The infamous door to the entrance of the Twitch Twitch Inn. The estate returned to the trustees of Frederick Andrews who were the pre-war owners. In 1968 it was put on the market to eventually become a restaurant. It was later purchased by Commercial Union to become a training centre but with the amalgamation of several insurance companies, Douces was sold to Beechcroft Developments for conversion to apartments. They undertook to restore the Twitch as a memorial to the many RAF personnel who had frequented the place during the war. However between the time when Commercial Part of the ceiling containing names of Union sold and Beechcroft acquired Douces, West Malling personnel the top half of the swing door to the cellar upon which was inscribed ‘Twitch Inn’ mysteriously disappeared. It was eventually revealed that the insurance company had actually donated the door and several photographic panels to the Aircrew Association who subsequently placed them with the Yorkshire Air Museum. When it became known that the Twitch was to become a permanent memorial, they kindly returned it into the hands of the Malling Society who had taken over responsibility for the Twitch.

Today and completely refurbished the ‘Twitch Further inscriptions on the ceiling HISTORY FEATURE

C

RENAULT CLIO Inspired by passion

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Considered as a sculpture, the Renault Clio is an object of desire: sensuality personified.

MOTORS FEATURE

ts muscular presence and dynamic flowing lines are derived straight from the DeZir concept. There are no sharp or aggressive angles, simply a form that draws you closer and compels you to touch it.

Renault Clio is equipped with cutting edge technology and a host of personalisation features for you to create your very own.

The Renault Clio makes hearts beat faster with its sensual curves, expressive front end and sporty, muscular shoulders. The signature Renault badge in the centre of the grille is like a mark of distinction. The epitome of desire in every detail. The Renault Clio offers the best of both worlds with the look of a Coupe yet with all the practicality of a five door.

You’ll never forget the Renault Clio. a

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The Renault Clio makes hearts beat faster with its sensual curves, expressive front end and sporty, muscular shoulders. The signature Renault badge in the centre of the grille is like a mark of distinction. The epitome of desire in every detail. The Renault Clio offers the best of both worlds with the look of a Coupe yet with all the practicality of a 5 door. You’ll never forget the Renault Clio.

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There are so many personalisation options for you to make your very own Renault Clio: the only hard part will be deciding which one!

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Want even more style, comfort and technology? Renault offers a wide range of accessories, specially designed and developed for your Renault Clio. Why not choose one of our accessory packs. Designed with you and your car in mind, our key accessories come in great value packs saving you up to 25%.

For more information visit www.motorline.co.uk/renault MOTORS FEATURE

MAZDA CX-3 Inspired by passion ll-new Mazda CX-3 is a compact SUV that was designed to turn heads.

Combining stylish KODO: Soul of Motion design with our awardwinning SKYACTIV Technology the car offers a no compromise driving experience whether negotiating inner city roads or touring the countryside.

All-new Mazda CX-3 was designed with you in mind. Innovative MZD-Connect, our advanced infotainment system gives you easy, fingertip control over all your music, phone, navigation and vehicle settings and even provides internet app integration.

With outstanding practicality and adaptability, allnew a da truly defies convention, creating a new standard in its class.

All-new Mazda CX-3’s forward-thinking KODO design is evident both inside and out. From the interior’s premium hand-crafted quality to the innovative technology features, you’ll feel that everything is

A

ergonomically designed around you – giving you a Jinba Ittai oneness with car. e’ve refined the exterior’s progressive body design with pure, simple KODO lines and energysuggestive contours. It conveys a mix of power and stylish charm that is sure to capture hearts.

SKYACTIV Technology lets you experience the fun side of all-new Mazda CX-3 while offering control, comfort and fuel efficiency. So wherever you go, you’re free to enjoy nimble, responsive handling and superior driving dynamics.

And with intelligent advanced safety features, you’ll have the security, protection and peace of mind to drive with confidence.

KODO DESIGN

The stylish exterior has a unique individuality that enables you to express yourself and stand out from the crowd. Elegant, sleek lines contrast with bold, solid proportions to give all-new Mazda CX-3 a striking presence for a car of this size.

Inside the comfortable, spacious interior you’ll experience the finest premium quality and craftsmanship with intuitive features and innovative design built around you. a

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Local News KENT BUSINESS NEWS

EXCITING NEW CHANGES FOR THE ROYAL STAR ARCADE 2016 sees exciting changes for the Royal Star Arcade in Maidstone, new manager Daniel Le Beau explains: “Maidstone as a centre for retail and leisure is a very competitive, crowded space whether you like a parade of shops such as Fremlin walk or a choice of multiple High Street food outlets such as those on offer on Earl Street, Maidstone has you covered.

“The future of the Royal Star Arcade sees us focusing on a high quality blend of independent and niche retailers and complementary businesses for those who appreciate the personal touch, those that enjoy a little bit of luxury and those that would like their trip to Maidstone to be more than ‘shop hopping’.

“I see our customers and business owners very much as guests in my home, we want people to enjoy spending time here… some retail therapy, enjoy a drink, some good food and appreciate the beautifully refurbished arcade pulling inspiration from some of the best shopping arcades in the country, the Burlington Arcade in Mayfair and the Royal Arcade in Norwich to name but two.

“It is this refurbishment project that is the start of breathing new life into the arcade, starting in February 2016 with the removal of the bandstand

and redevelopment of the central rotunda the Arcade will transform into a beautiful, classically styled shopping experience unmatched in the area.” Daniel continues, “the arcade is dated, looks worn out and given the undoubted beauty of the atrium roof deserves this to be its crowning glory.

The dominating, dated bandstand staircase just has to go, in its place we will have large covered area that can provide ample dining space for lunch with friends, an evening meal or just a coffee as well as the opportunity for seasonal events that are simply not possible currently anywhere in Maidstone… watch this space.

“The Royal Star Arcade will become the place to be in Maidstone and its surrounding areas for good retail, great food and drink and the best experience.

We are at the beginning of a journey, we are very excited for the future and we hope you will be too”.

PARENTS HONOUR VITAMIN D SPRAYS AT PRESTIGIOUS MATERNITY AND INFANT AWARDS An innovative way of boosting the vitamin D levels of expectant mums and infants has been recognised by one of the parenting industry’s biggest award schemes.

BetterYou’s DLuxPregnancy and DLuxInfant vitamin D oral sprays both picked up gongs at the Boots Maternity & Infant Awards- now in its eighth year and the only awards of its kind where winners are tested by and voted for by parents.

Both products were given to parents to test and rate for five wee s and were also put through their paces by a panel of top industry experts, parenting bloggers and celebrity mums.

Andrew Thomas, Managing Director and Founder of BetterYou, said: “The UK Department of Health highlights all pregnant women, and children under five years as an at ris group for LOCAL NEWS

vitamin deficiency and recommend that they should be given a daily supplement.

“The fact that our DLux sprays purely tailored for these groups have earned these awards is fantastic, particularly as it is parents themselves who have tested and voted for the products.

“We are pleased that people are at last starting to properly understand the brilliant advantages oral sprays offer and why they are so superior compared to their capsule equivalents.”

Vitamin D promotes the development and maintenance of bones and teeth, supports a healthy immune system and aids muscle development.

DLuxPregnancy oral spray guarantees optimal absorption of essential vitamins, bypassing the digestive system making it the ideal solution for those suffering from morning sickness.

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PORT LYMPNE HOTEL: WEDDING VENUE OF THE YEAR The Port Lympne Hotel, at Port Lympne Reserve, has been awarded the coveted title of Kent Venue of the Year, at the prestigious Kent Wedding wards 201 . he awards, now in their fifth year, celebrate the best of Kent’s wedding professionals and suppliers.

A rigorous two day judging process involving a panel of handpicked industry experts, including recently engaged couples from Kent, the Wedding Gift List Managers of House of Fraser and selected wedding, media and journalistic professionals whittled down entrants to a list of finalists. he category winners were revealed at the glittering awards ceremony held on 12th November 2015.

Bob O’Connor, Managing Director of Port Lympne Reserve said: ‘I am absolutely delighted that the four star Port Lympne Hotel has been awarded Kent Wedding Venue of the Year. It’s a testament to the hard work of our dedicated wedding team here at Port Lympne. They work tirelessly to ensure that brides and grooms enjoy their most special day with us and it’s wonderful that this has been recognised by the Kent Wedding Awards.’

The Port Lympne Hotel, a beautifully refurbished Edwardian mansion at the heart of the popular wild animal park, offers a unique, romantic setting for weddings. Built in 1912 the hotel is surrounded by 15 acres of landscaped gardens, incorporating water features, colourful borders, romantic terraces and the famous Trojan steps.

A spokesperson for Kent Wedding Awards said: ‘Port Lympne Hotel is a splendid venue offering the height of elegance with polished floors, high ceilings, beautiful grounds and fabulous detail, Judges were impressed with the level of care and the almost unlimited service for couples detailed in their presentation and loved the variety of their packages, menus and open pricing shown. ‘

LOCAL NEWS

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BIDDENDEN VINEYARDS LOVES NEW APPLE JUICE Biddenden Vineyards, Kent’s original commercial vineyard, is excited to announce the launch of ed ove , the ’s first commercially available naturally red apple juice.

Made using the juice pressed straight from an apple variety called Red Love®, the special edition apple juice is a vibrant red colour, clear not cloudy and contains no added colourants, sugars or chemicals. Also rich in healthy anthocyanins, Red Love® contains a higher concentration of anti-oxidants than the average white fleshed apple and a 150ml serving of the juice will also contribute towards one of your five a day .

Julian Barnes, Managing Director at Biddenden Vineyards, said: “Red Love® juice has an incredible sweet and tangy taste, with a long lasting flavour from the good levels of tannins. A perfect base for cocktails, an exquisite non-alcoholic alternative

at weddings and parties, ideal for children and diabetics, or just as an everyday drink, Red Love® is a new vibrant twist on the classic, much-loved apple juice drink.”

The limited edition Red Love® juice will be available in 1litre and 250ml bottles, with a naturally red cider scheduled for release in April 2016.

Francis Wheatley, Technical Manager at AG Thames, said: “We are very excited to be working with iddenden ineyards to create the ’s first naturally red apple juice. Other red apple juices on the UK market tend to be coloured with ingredients such as beetroot, but the Red Love® variety naturally produces a beautiful ruby red uice when it is pressed and filtered. he first ed ove trees were planted at ast Malling Research in June 2012 and we are thrilled to finally have the finished product.

“This is an exciting product for the market, particularly due to its high levels of anti-oxidants and health benefits.

“Working with Biddenden to develop the juice has ensured a consistent, high quality juice.”

ON 1ST ANNIVERSARY OF STAMP DUTY CHANGES HOMEBUYERS IN KENT HAVE SAVED NEARLY £2M Government changes to stamp duty introduced on December 4th last year were designed to reduce the level of tax paid by almost all homebuyers. Local house builder Barratt Homes PLC has calculated that across Kent a family buying one of their brand new homes saved on average £3,746 before purchase. The house builder’s research reveals that this added up to an estimated £1,816,941 saved by Barratt PLC customers in the county in the past year alone.

LOCAL NEWS

Substantial savings have been made across various local authority areas in the county, including: shford 1,1 0 exley 210, 1 romley 6,0 artford 62, over 16, onbridge and alling 122, 0 Gary Ennis, Southern Regional Managing Director for Barratt Developments says: “For most people, buying a new home is one of the biggest financial commitments that they will ma e and it is fantastic that these simple changes have saved our homebuyers in Kent so much money since the start of the year.

“The new system means that homebuyers of a typical property with Barratt PLC worth £280,000 will now pay £4,400 less in stamp duty. This is money that can be put towards the deposit for their new house, spent on new furniture or used for something else entirely.”

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GO FIT YOURSELF FOR SPORT RELIEF IN THE SOUTH EAST Sport Relief is calling on the people of the South ast to step away from the stuffing, re ect those spare sprouts and start the New Year as they mean to go on by signing up for the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Games, taking place on Friday 18th to Sunday 20th March.

People all over the South East from a variety of ages and fitness levels are encouraged to go fit themselves as they get ready to walk, run, swim or cycle themselves proud by signing up to the Sport Relief Games.

With hundreds of local events taking place across the region, there is bound to be one near you. It’s the ideal incentive to get the gang back together and help each other stic to those ew ear’s fitness resolutions. Maintaining that motivation until March will be a walk in the park.

Participants can look forward to some serious fundraising fun by taking part with friends or family, dressing head to toe in fancy dress and making every mile matter by getting sponsored each step of the way.

Half of all the money raised by the public is used to make a difference right here at home in the UK, with the other half used to fund projects in the world’s poorest communities.

REGIONAL AIR ROUTES OFFER FAST JOURNEYS Aviation Minister Robert Goodwill has welcomed the new domestic and international routes that will start in 2016 from Oxford and Southampton airports.

The Chancellor announced in last week’s Spending Review that 11 successful bidders across the UK had been awarded support from the UK Government’s egional ir onnectivity und. he new flights will offer fast journey times to Edinburgh from Oxford, and quicker connections to Lyon and Munich from Southampton.

Robert Goodwill said: “Oxford and Southampton airports are vital engines for the South of England’s economy, connecting the UK and creating opportunities. That is why the UK Government backs new air routes from the South of England, with our investment benefiting hardwor ing people across the country.”

The start-up aid bidding competition was open to airports with fewer than five million passengers per year and allows air routes that are not currently commercially viable today to be introduced early, giving time for airlines to build passenger numbers and deliver a more sustainable service. It is anticipated that flights will begin from Spring 2016.

LOCAL NEWS

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FAIRDEAL WINDOWS LTD – CELEBRATING 25 YEARS Fairdeal Windows LTD celebrated their 25th year providing high quality windows, doors and conservatories to customers in the South East.

Established in 1990, Fairdeal Windows has developed strong relationships with its customers from all areas of the construction industry including local authorities, schools/ universities and main contractors.

Attention to detail on all projects has been well recognised by clients with repeat business and recommendations from all sectors including homeowners.

As a family run business Fairdeal Windows are totally committed to maintaining its reputation by delivering a superior product range and excellent

technical support providing a first class service.

The modern conservatory and orangery collection can enhance any home providing additional living space and a new and exciting environment for all the family.

The additional space gained and the value added to the property as a significant result are a full range of conservatories have been designed and developed with the latest technological advances. No matter what style of conservatory chosen, the safety, ease of use and security of all products, fittings and components have been the prime concern. All of the installation teams are trained to install conservatories to the highest standards of care, workmanship and attention to detail.

INDEPENDENT REPORT REVEALS SOLUTION TO BRIDGING THE GAP The report, commissioned by PwC, outlines how schools can increase attainment in the lowest achieving 20 per cent using the programme, run by education charity Achievement for All, and can invest in it using their pupil premium funding allocation.

Schools in Kent can bridge the gap by implementing a support programme which an independent report has found can improve progress in reading by a staggering 55 per cent above national expectations at KS3-4.

And with over 45,000 primary and secondary pupils in Kent eligible for the Deprivation Pupil Premium, with allocated funding of £52.6-million, schools could find themselves closing the gap.

The report also found that along with reading, pupils vulnerable to underachievement also exceeded national attainment targets in writing, by 53 per cent, and maths by 20 per cent.

The PwC report examines the social impact assessment (SIA) of the Schools Programme – a two year whole school improvement framework delivered directly into schools by Achievement for All, via a team of expert coaches and online resources.

Professor Sonia Blandford, CEO and founder of Achievement for All, said: “Research shows that those with a low level of educational attainment are almost five times as li ely to be in poverty now LOCAL NEWS

and 11 times as likely to be severely materially deprived as those with a high level of education.

“Our sole purpose at Achievement for All is to ensure that every child succeeds, regardless of their background, challenge or need. While our programme targets specific groups within a school or setting, it is also used as a whole school improvement tool. The practices and teachings are infiltrated across the board to benefit all pupils, teachers, parents and carers.

“We are delighted with the progress we have made as outlined in the PwC report, and are continuously looking to partner with more schools and settings across the country to help improve the outcomes for as many children and young people as possible.”

WHAT’S ON & WHEN GARDEN WALKS, IGHTHAM MOTE, 10TH JANUARY - 28TH FEBRUARY In January and February enjoy a gentle stroll around the hard path gardens or take in a longer walk on the ancient estate and enjoy the beauty of the Kent countryside.

You can pick up one of the estate walks leaflets from the visitor reception.

There are some guided wal s followed by a roast on Sundays 10th, 24th January, 14th and 28th February. or more information please call 01 2 11 1 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.u ightham mote

GARDEN PHOTOGRAPHER EXHIBITION SISSINGHURST CASTLE GARDEN 16TH JANUARY - 28TH FEBRUARY The International Garden Photographer of the Year xhibition comes to Sissinghurst from the 16th anuary to the 28th ebruary, don’t miss a chance to see some of the best photography from around the globe at Sissinghurst this winter. or more details please call 01580 10 00 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.u sissinghurst castle garden

MOSCOW CITY BALLET, ORCHARD THEATRE 19TH/20TH/21ST/23RD JANUARY enowned dance company, oscow ity allet, returns with its dramatic traditional story telling and captivating performances of iselle from uesday 1 th – Wednesday 20th January and The Nutcracker on hursday 21st – Saturday 2 rd anuary 2016. oscow ity allets da ling repertoire of the ballet classics iselle and he utcrac er emphasise the fact that ussian ballet’s combine artistry, techni ue, narrative and live music to provide a true dancing experience.

Audiences can not only marvel at the perfection of its corps de ballet but witness the excellent dexterity and grace of principal ballerinas Alevtina Lapshina and Liliya Oryekhova. ive music is at the heart of oscow ity allet’s he Nutcracker, staged in all their original splendour with some of the world’s finest dancers. he tragic love story of village girl iselle, who goes mad and dies of a bro en heart, will have audiences on the edge of their seats as will the ilis’ dance to the music of dolphe dam. or more details please call 01 22 2 20 or visit www.orchardtheatre.co.uk LOCAL EVENTS

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CANTERBURY CATHEDRAL CHORAL SOCIETY 25TH JANUARY Vivaldi Gloria and Haydn Nelson Mass, with the English Chamber Orchestra.

Canterbury Choral Society and its Youth Choir are joined by the world-renowned English Chamber Orchestra to sing Vivaldi’s ever-popular Gloria, and Haydn’s great Nelson Mass, the most Beethovenian of his works, powerful and dramatic, and one of the towering masterpieces of the classical age.

For more details please call 01227 787787 or visit www.canterbury-cathedral.org

MUSEUM LATES: GET A NEW FACE, MAIDSTONE MUSEUM, 28TH JANUARY Hear from their curators about our wonderful collection of masks from around the world and get a new face by creating your own mask - all materials provided.

Please note, some activities may incur a small charge.

For more information please call 01622 602838 or visit www.museum.maidstone.gov.uk

BLUEWATER WEDDING FAIR 29TH - 31ST JANUARY The ultimate day out for wedding inspiration. Held at Glow, Bluewater in Kent, the Fair is designed especially for brides-to-be from Kent, Surrey, Sussex, Essex and London and covers everything you need to plan your perfect wedding.

he air brings together the South ast’s finest collection of wedding suppliers. Every detail is covered from bridalwear to favours, cakes to cars, venues to stationery, entertainment to accessories, venue dressing to menswear, photography to florists, bridesmaid dresses to hair and beau and everything in between.

On top of a wide variety of exhibitors, catering to all your wedding needs, there are an assortment of fantastic features to inspire you with ideas for your big day.

For more details please call 020 3627 3254 or visit www.bluewater.co.uk STEPHEN K AMOS, GULBENKIAN, CANTERBURY 31ST JANUARY The maestro of feel-good comedy is back on tour with his new show. Fresh from sell-out tours in Australia and New Zealand, as heard on BBC Radio 4 Life: An Idiot’s Guide and What Does the K Stand For? For more information please call 01227 769075 or visit www. thegulbenkian.co.uk

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C elebrities

who also share January birthdays

Ali Janes

Clairvoyant

Ali has been using her psychic gifts all her life and now enjoys teaching others to develop their own clairvoyance. She runs 10 week courses, workshops and face to face readings from her shop in Herne Bay, Kent called The Guiding Angels Psychic Academy. She is known internationally and regularly reads for celebrities.

Lewis Hamilton 7th January

Tarot reading for January birthdays: Star signs that fall under January are:

Capricorn (24th December – 20th January) and Aquarian (21st January – 18th February)

Gary Barlow 20th January

Christian Bale 30th January

TAROT READINGS

A typical Capricorn character: Has worked hard to get to where they are in the world and they are proud of their achievements. They usually like to climb to the top or near the top of the wor ladder, although if they can receive the same financial rewards by allowing others to do the hard work then they wouldn’t say no to that. A Capricorn likes the nicer things in life and will wor for them. s a boss they are firm but fair.

A typical Aquarian character: Is eccentric and very funny in a quirky way. They don’t seem to take life as seriously as everyone else and this can cause others to think that they don’t have strong feelings but they do. This is the way they deal with them. They hide behind their sense of humour and sometimes their intellectual knowledge. Get to know the Aquarian and your life will be filled with new adventures.

Beginning of January for Capricorns – You will be decorating / changing things in the house or getting new things as there seems like there is chaos and disruption but not in a bad way.

You have told yourself it’s time to focus on getting straight, even though there have been obstacles before this point. You have had the strength to get through and here you are!

For Aquarians – Be careful when you are sorting out things in your home and throwing things away as you will come across something of great value which will or has the potential of bringing you financial security. ou will not be a happy bunny if you find out later that you had this item and it got taken to the tip by mistake!

End of January for Capricorns – our mischievous side has definitely come out to play at this time and you are so excited about the attention that you have been getting. You are breaking free from restrictions that you have put on yourself or someone else did. It’s now time to enjoy your freedom. An unexpected trip up a motorway will take you somewhere where you will make new friendships and emotional connections. New experiences will bring out your true personality.

For Aquarians – A sharp tongued person is making life hard work due to their lack of commitment emotionally and financially and you need to now either way so that you can move forward with your own plans. It’s like trying to get them to communicate is hard enough without pushing them to make a decision. Is it time to give up and just do it yourself instead?

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Issue 48, January 2016 Complimentary

48

Kent’s Lifestyle Magazine

Duncan

Bannatyne FIGHTING FIT from a RAGS TO RICHES life

16 page

Property supplement INSIDE

From the CATWALK to TV’S most in-demand HOST

EMMA

res

OTHER featu

New Year Resolutions

Top tips for January

January 2016

&

diets

Willis

PROPERTY BUSINESS BEAUTY AND MUCH, MUCH MORE