MMM Magazine July '15

Issue 42, July 2015 Complimentary

Kent’s Lifestyle Magazine

Multiple motorsport champion

JOHN SURTEES A portrait of a s

OTHER feature

The British Aircraft Company

PRINCESS ROYAL

Take afternoon tea in styl

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LUS EVENTS TRAVEL HISTORY

EVENTS TRAVEL HISTORY AND MUCH, MUCH MORE

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All items available from Betty Barclay

All items available from House of Fraser

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Welcome

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ast month, the acclaimed Lonely Planet guide named Kent its top European family holiday destination – and I couldn’t agree more.

For anyone who has moved here, visited or lived here all their lives, the county exudes a beauty like no other – from gentle picturesque countryside to breath-taking coastlines, castles to cathedrals, thatched cottages to mighty mansions. It really does have everything.

All of which is rather convenient, because in this edition of mmm we take a very special look at some of the plethora of events taking place throughout July – some of which you may be familiar with, and plenty you’ll just want to discover.

From the likes of the glorious Kent County Show in Detling, to peeking inside the new Treehouse Hotel at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park, you’ll also find out about a host of family themed events and family travel destinations which will excite and inspire you.

Certainly, this wonderful county of ours knows how to stage the top events.

Last month I attended the Kent Ferrari Summer Ball, which this year celebrated its 25th anniversary at the Brands Hatch Thistle Hotel. From the service to entertainment, it was a fabulous event, and that’s before we even start to talk about the line-up of incredible cars.

Motorsport fans will want to turn to read our special article on local legend John Surtees – the oldest surviving Formula One champion – inside.

The good news too is that more people than ever are subscribing to mmm to ensure they receive their copy each and every month. Plus we’ve had more fabulous feedback this month from our readers who, I’m delighted to say, love what we’re doing.

After all, what better holiday reading could you need this summer than lounging by the beach, or the pool, or in your garden, clutching a copy of mmm and enjoying all that sun we hope will be shining.

Enjoy this edition and please don’t hesitate to get in touch and let me know what you think.

See you next month!

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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

motors the new Kia sorento

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afternoon tea take afternoon tea in style mmm’s guide on where to go

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british aircraft company robin j brooks explores the development of flight

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food delicious dishes just for you!

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hobbies Local photographer capturing the beauty that is florence, italy

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traVeL discover exciting destinations combining family fun activities with baldwins travel Group

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Kent ferrari prestigious summer charity ball

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eVents highlights of all that’s happening in and about Kent this month

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horoscopes discover what’s in store for you this july with ali janes

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john surtees Reflections of a motorsport legend

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GardeninG a family affair - engage the family and create your perfect garden

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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. © MMM Media Ltd 2015

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Further Contribution Tracy Jones Sarah Vince Rachel Luckhurst Nigel Bottomley

beauty treatments mmm looks at the top beauty treatments this summer

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Accounts Kerry Head

bathrooms a bathroom to suit all styles

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Sales Sue Houghton

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Design Matthew Jones

princess anne a portrait of a princess royal

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Editorial Tom White Robin J Brooks Tricia Lester

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Events at

Hollingbourne, Kent, ME17 1RE

Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel

0844 815 9045

mercuremaidstone.co.uk

csales.mercuremaidstone@jupiterhotels.co.uk

SCOTT ELVIS

ROCK THE NIGHT AWAY Friday 9th October 2015

MURDER MYSTERY DINNER

Thursday 10th December Wednesday 16th December

Event starts at 7.00pm | Dinner served 8.00pm Bar closes at 12.00pm

£36.95 per person

FAWLTY TOWERS

“Dinner is served!” Experience

Friday 16th October 2015 Event starts at 7.30pm | Dinner served 8.00pm

£36.95 per person

Event starts at 7.30pm | Dinner served 8.00pm

£25.00 per person

royal

with a difference From school in Kent to a Kidnap attempt the princess royal

is like no other member of the Windsor family he became the first senior member of the royal family to collect a criminal record, was once caught speeding at 93mph on a dual carriageway and was once at the centre of an audacious kidnapping attempt which saw several people shot after her car was stopped in the centre of London.

Life for the Queen’s eldest, and only daughter, Anne, the Princess Royal, has certainly never been dull.

Married twice, a celebrated equestrian star and Olympian, a former winner of the BBC Sports Personality of the Year and the first member of the royals to take part in a TV quiz show (A Question of Sport), it has been a quite remarkable life of a Windsor who has, in recent years, been overlooked in favour of the new, youthful royal generation.

Among them, of course, her daughter, Zara Phillips – now Zara Tindall – who herself followed in her mother’s footsteps more than 30 years later by winning the same BBC sports award.

She said of her mother: “I look at her and just think if I was going to be a mother, that’s what I would want to be like. I would like to be as good a mother as she has been to us.” a

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CELEBRITY FEATURE

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But while the nation prepares to celebrate the forthcoming christening of Kate and William’s daughter, Charlotte, it is worth looking back at the remarkable life of Anne as she hurtles towards her 65th birthday this August.

Especially as she spent much of her schooling in Kent – attending the plush Benenden School.

Born in August 1950 in Clarence House, she was the Queen’s – then just Princess Elizabeth - second born – a little under two years since the birth of her first, Prince Charles.

CELEBRITY FEATURE

By a decision passed just two years before, by her grandfather, George VI, she would become Princess Anne, rather than as tradition had previously dictated, Lady Anne Mountbatten. When her mother became Queen – Anne was too young to attend the coronation – she became HRH Princess Anne.

She was baptised in the music room of Buckingham Palace just three months later. A governess was appointed to look after and be responsible for her early education and, just like with her mother, a Girl Guides company was

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reformed – the 1st Buckingham Palace Company – to allow her to socialise with girls of her own age.

But after receiving private tuition up until the age of 13, by 1964 the decision was taken to send her to boarding school. She was sent to Benenden School in the West Kent countryside where she would spend much of her secondary education.

She would emerge five years later with six O-Levels and two A-Levels.

Ironically, her first boyfriend was Andrew Parker Bowles who would later become the first husband of

Camilla – the now Duchess of Cornwall and wife of Anne’s big brother Charles.

As for claims by some the Queen was not a caring mother? The Princess Royal – a title bestowed by the Queen in 1987 – has none of it.

She explains: “I simply don’t believe that there is any evidence whatsoever to suggest that she wasn’t caring. It just beggars belief.

“We, as children may have not been too demanding, in the sense that we understood what the limitations were in time and the responsibilities placed on her as monarch, in the things she had to do and the travels she had to make.

“But I don’t believe any of us thought for a second that she didn’t care for us in exactly the same way as any other mother did. I just think it extraordinary that anybody could construe that might not be true.”

By 1973, she had accepted the marriage proposal of Mark Phillips, a lieutenant in the 1st Queen’s Dragoon Guards. The service, which took place at Westminster Abbey, was televised live around the world, to an estimated TV audience of some 100 million people. They lived at Gatcombe Park in Gloucestershire, but just a year after they married, the couple found themselves at the centre of an audacious kidnap attempt.

As they were returning to Buckingham Palace on March 20th, travelling back after attending a charity event, a Ford Escort suddenly appeared in The Mall and forced the car to stop.

The driver, Ian Ball, jumped out of the car and started firing a gun. As the princess’s personal police officer leapt out of the car to disarm him, he was shot when his gun jammed – as was the driver of the limousine. A nearby journalist who ran to her aid was also hit. a

CELEBRITY FEATURE

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Ball, meanwhile, approached the car and told her he intended to kidnap her – demanding £2m for her release.

When he ordered Anne out of the car she gave perhaps her best known quote. “Not bloody likely,” she told her assailant. Ball was then attacked by a passer-by and Anne led to safety. But not before Ball shot a police officer. He had, however, radioed for back-up and when police gave chase they found and captured him.

He pleaded guilty to attempted murder and kidnap.

He was committed to a mental hospital and is now thought to be in Broadmoor. The attack would prompt a major review in security around the royal family.

Reflecting years later, she said of the incident: “The reason it didn’t work is that there was only one of him. If there had been more than one of him, it would probably have worked.” It would not be her first brush with the authorities.

In 2001 she was clocked speeding at 93mph on a dual carriageway, given five points and fined £400 by magistrates.

A year later she became the first senior royal to have a criminal record when her pet dog, Dotty, attacked two children as she walked in Windsor Great Park. Up in front of magistrates again, she was ordered to give the dog more training.

But it would be unfair to dwell on the blots on her copy book. She has conducted herself in a dignified manner for years, and gone above and beyond her duties in straddling the divide between the royals and the public.

Her success in equestrian sports saw her excel at the tender age of 21 when she won an individual title at the European Eventing Championship.

By 1976 her years of involvement in the British eventing team saw her picked for the 1976 Olympic Games in Montreal where she rode the Queen’s horse Goodwill.

Since ending her competitive career, she spent eight years as president of the sport’s governing body, the Fédération Equestre Internationale.

However, all has not always been happy.

In 1989, her relationship with husband Mark Phillips had fractured after years of strain and they divorced in 1992 – ending a relationship which had produced two children – Peter and Zara.

Shortly after the divorce was finalised, Anne married Timothy Laurence, a commander in the Royal Navy – becoming one of the rare royals to remarry and the first since 1905.

But as she approaches 65 this summer, she remains a royal with a distinct personality – a no-nonsense approach which continues to win her admirers.

There is still much to come from the Princess Royal. mmm

CELEBRITY FEATURE

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sales@carpetmillsmaidstone.co.uk www.carpetmillsmaidstone.co.uk

We are one of Kent’s largest independent, family run Carpets and Flooring retailers based in Maidstone.Established for 24 years we are always here to offer sound advice and pride ourselves on our customer care.

Carpets Vinyl Flooring laminate Flooring Beds and mattresses artiFiCial grass Artificial grass guarantees grass that is always green, despite the conditions, weather and environment. Our stock artificial grass which can be supplied at a cost of ÂŁ12.99 per square metre is a premium 37mm natural looking grass, bleach cleanable with an appearance that lasts.

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set your calendar for

this month mmm showcases exciting events featuring throughout Kent, for your diary this July Classic Car Show, Darling Buds Farm, 5th July lassic car enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys a fun day out will be in heaven at The Darling Buds Classic Car Show in Kent on Sunday July 5th, 2015.

The gates open at 10am with more than 900 classic cars and a vast array of stalls and a fun fair for the children.

The Classic Car Show, organised by the Rover P5 Alive Club, is in its 20th year at the idyllic Darling Buds Farm where the famous Darling Buds of May TV series was filmed.

This year`s attractions include Pop Larkin`s yellow Rolls Royce, the Woodchurch Morris Men, a Supercar display and a falconry display, Kent Fire and Rescue demonstrations, a vintage fair, arts and crafts, local produce, a range of scrumptious food venues and well-stocked bar.

This is one of Kent’s most popular annual attractions, not to be missed! And there is plenty of parking!

For more information please call 01233 226110 or visit www.darlingbudsfarm.co.uk/event/carshow

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Kent County Show, Kent Showground, Maidstone, 10th - 12th July he Kent County Show is the region’s showcase event for farming, countryside and rural life. The three day show brings together the very best of Kent with animals, food, fun and excitement giving a true feel of what ’The Garden of England’ has to offer. Experience the flower show, food tent, canine area, show jumping, vintage vehicles and hundreds of cattle, sheep and goats. Meet Titan the Robot, watch the Metropolitan Police Horses, listen to live music and see the Kent Spitfire flying overhead.

The three day Show brings together the very best of Kent with animals, food, fun and excitement giving a true feel of what ’The Garden of England’ has to offer.

For one year only the RAF Red Arrows display team will be performing on Friday 10th July 2015.

For more information please call 01622 633060 or visit www.kentshowground.co.uk

T DIARY DATES

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Leeds Castle Open Air Classical Concert, Maidstone, 11th July et ready to wave your Union Jack flag and sing your heart out at this year’s Leeds Castle Open Air Classical Concert.

Join thousands of concert-goers who will be unpacking picnics, lighting candelabras and popping the bubbly as the cannons fire to open this incredible annual event at “the loveliest castle in the world”.

The organisers of this year’s Leeds Castle Open Air Classical Concert on Saturday 11th July have just announced the two soloists who will take to the stage and entertain thousands of concert-goers against the 900 year old backdrop of the Castle.

John Rigby, Artistic Director for the Leeds Castle Open Air Concerts, is delighted to welcome Ross Ramgobin and Anthony Flaum onto the stage this year.

For more information please call 0845 652 62 62 or visit www.heritageevents.co.uk.

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Ross Ramgobin “I’m hugely excited to sing some of the best-known classical repertoire in such a beautiful setting. Partnered with an outstanding orchestra, it promises to be a great evening that I can’t wait to share with the Leeds Castle audience.”

Anthony Flaum “I’m very excited to be singing at Leeds Castle.

The walls of the castle are steeped in history and the pieces we’re performing match that sense of drama....

I just can’t wait to be a part of this in such a magical and beautiful setting.”

Wildlife Heritage Foundation open day, Smarden, 16th – 19th July ome and visit our open day that includes over 50 cats, including tigers, lions, leopards and cheetahs. A perfect

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Let’s Hang On White Rock Theatre, Hastings, 30th July ollowing huge demand after their performance here last year, Let’s Hang On returns to take you on a musical journey through the history of one of the most successful bands of all time – Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons!

Featuring an anthology of hit songs including Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Bye Bye Baby, December 1963 (Oh What A Night!), Walk Like A Man, Sherry, Working My Way Back To You, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Grease and many more!

Prepare for an electric atmosphere and don’t be surprised to find yourself on your feet and dancing before the night is over!!

For more information please call 01424 462 280 or visit www.whiterocktheatre.org.uk

F DIARY DATES

day out for the family with face painting, BBQ’s, falconry display, bouncy castle, arts and crafts and more. Gates open from 11am till 5pm, latest entry is 4pm.

For more information please call 01233 771915 or visit www.wgf.org.uk

TooREX, The Old Brewery Faversham, 18th July ooREX play at The Old Brewery Store on Saturday 18th July!

TooRex are an outstanding T-Rex tribute band featuring the incomparable ‘Bobby T’ as Marc Bolan. He looks like him and sounds like him and he’s got the same on stage persona and vibe. Too Rex aim to recreate the live concert feel of a real T-Rex gig, it’s the closest you’ll ever get. Bobby T’s performance is truly incredible, he takes the impersonation of Bolan very seriously, he’s one of a kind.

This nostalgic seventies trip down memory lane includes the following songs: I Love To Boogie, Cosmic Dancer, Get In On, Hot Love, Jeepster, Children of The Revolution, Ride A White Swan, Telegram Sam plus many more.

Grab your feather boas and spaceball shoes and get ready to re-live the music of the legendary Marc Bolan and T-Rex. This is 70’s Glam Rock at its absolute best.

For more information please call 01795 542285 or visit www.oldbrewerystore.co.uk

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BRIGHT FOR THE BEACH Rumba orange tie dye £195.00 www.lindseybrown.com

Plaited brim floppy hat £15.00 BHS

Thread thru scarf floppy hat £15.00 BHS

Zanzibar £210.00 www.lindseybrown.com Faith - Leather plaited sandals £17.00 Debenhams

Faith - Flat sandals £22.00 Debenhams

Swimsuit £32.50 Marks and Spencer Fern £100.00 Radley

Snake print swimsuit £35.00 Marks and Spencer Lucie £90.00 Radley

LADIES FASHION

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26 mmm Geo print shirt £25.00 Geo print shorts £28.00 Cross strap sandals £35.00 Next

RJR John Rocha green print t-shirt £25.00 Debenhams

RJR John Rocha leaf shirt £35.00 Debenhams Howick Tan leather belt £28.00 House of Fraser

Autograph leather trainers £85.00 Marks and Spencers

STYLES FOR THE HOLIDAYS Collezione briefcase £129.00 Marks and Spencer

Water polo shorts £30.00 Superdry

Aldale striped t-shirt £45.00 Ted Baker

Blue with stripes shorts £45.00 Superdry Pink polo t-shirt £40.00 Tropical print swim short £30.00 Straw trilby hat £22.00 House of Fraser

Printed lighthouse swim shorts £79.00 Hugo Boss

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TOP

Beauty Treatments THIS SUMMER

The sun is shining, so why not give your summer look a boost this season.

WE TAKE A LOOK AT THE TOP BEAUTY TREATMENTS THIS SUMMER

PEDICURE ith the change of weather, the world is going to see a lot more of your feet.

Whether you’re wearing flip flops or chilling out with toes buried in the sand, people are going to be seeing those heels and toes. Why not get them looking beautiful and eye catching before that happens?

W FACIALS he harsh winter winds and damp everchanging spring climate can have a negative impact your face. So go ahead and treat yourself to a facial, so that you have radiant skin this summer.

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TANNING ou want to have that lovely glow before stepping out into the sun.

So five minutes every other day for a month and you’ll be beautifully bronzed before you even take your first step in the sand.

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MASSAGE othing is better than having all the stress and worry washed away with a simple massage. Relaxing your muscles and dismissing those negative thoughts. Whether you go for simple back or a full body massage, either will work wonders on your body and help you to fully relax.

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HAIRCUT AND STYLE aircuts can be done based on a whim and therefore can sometimes be very unexpected. Even if you just add a few more layers, it makes your hair lighter and cutting off those split ends is a great way to kick off a new season. And maybe get some highlights too, while you’re at it!

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BODY WRAP ody wraps are actually a great way to get rid of a lot of toxins in your body.

You can start them whenever you like, just in time for summer. So this year, start the summer positively by getting a

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WAXING

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ow with the event of summer, you want to look your best at the beach in your swimwear and bikini, so go prepared with a full body wax this summer.

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Afternoon teA

in kent

Want to know the best spots to enjoy a day out and have afternoon tea?

then take a look at our guide on where to go in kent Mercure Great Danes Hotel - Maidstone Ashford Road, Hollingbourne, Maidstone, ME17 1RE ercure Maidstone provides a quiet and relaxed atmosphere to enjoy afternoon tea. On sunny afternoons, the summer terrace is perfect for appreciating the stunning views of the grounds. This venue is located next to Leeds Castle in Kent, and is the ideal place for those who wish to stop for afternoon tea while visiting the Castle.

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ÂŁ14.95 Per person

Book now on:

0844 815 9045 www.mercuremaidstone.co.uk

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Chilston Park Hotel - Lenham Sandway, Lenham, Maidstone, ME17 2BE

ake afternoon tea in The Marble Lounge which includes delicate finger sandwiches, warm homemade scones with clotted cream, homemade preserves, delicious pastries and tea.

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£22.50 Per person

Book now on:

01622 734334 www.handpickedhotels.co.uk /chilstonpark

The Secret Garden - Ashford Mersham-le-hatch Business Village, Hythe Road, Ashford, Kent, TN25 6NH

hether you desire a quick coffee and cake, or would like to enjoy an afternoon tea, cream tea or a delicious lunch, The Secret Garden is the perfect place to relax and unwind with friends and family.

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£38.00 for two

Book now on:

01233 501586 www.secretgardenkent.co.uk

Village Hotel - Maidstone Forstal Road, Maidstone, ME14 4AQ

The Secret Pantry is the perfect place to meet up with friends and family.

Whether you’re stopping for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea or cream tea.

Our HIGH QUALITY FOOD and FRIENDLY SERVICE will leave a lasting impression

01580 766696 4 MANOR ROW 100 HIGH STREET TENTERDEN

www.thetenterdensecretpantry.co.uk AFTERNOON TEA

ith tasty, bespoke menus along with a range of wines and ales your experience or celebration is sure to be a mouth-watering event for everybody attending.

Selection of traditional finger sandwiches, a fruit scone served with clotted cream and jam Selection of tea time cakes A selection Per person of teas add a glass of Book now on: Prosseco for £5.00 0871 222 4598 per person. www.village-hotels.co.uk

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£15.00 /hotels/maidstone

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£19.50

Eastwell Manor - Ashford

Per person

Book now on:

01233 213000 www.eastwellmanor.co.uk

Eastwell Park, Boughton Lees, Ashford, TN25 4HR

n assortment of cakes, warm freshly baked scones and lovely hot tea, at Eastwell Manor you can enjoy excellent service with a lovely afternoon tea experience in supurb surroundings.

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Tudor Park Marriott Hotel - Maidstone Ashford Road, Bearsted, Maidstone, ME14 4NQ

his summer, pop in to Tudor Park, maybe after a walk around nearby Wildlife Trust in Bearsted and order the beautifullycrafted cream tea. It comes with scones Per person that defy gravity and lashings of cream.

If you are an afternoon tea connoisseur, you won’t Book now on: 01622 734334 be disappointed, Tudor Park has recently brought www.MarriottTudorPark.co.uk in British tea specialist, Simpsons Tea and has also teamed up with Kent’s leading wine producer Chapel Down to offer its award winning sparkling wine as part of a royal afternoon tea package.

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£15.00

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Afternoon TEARECIPES Tea sandwiches INGREDIENTS

Recipe from: www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes

For the apple and cucumber sandwiches ½ lemon, juice only 1 apple, core removed, chopped into small pieces ¼ cucumber, finely sliced 200g/7oz cream cheese ½ bunch mint, chopped ¼ bunch flatleaf parsley, chopped 1 thin baguette, halved horizontally and lightly buttered For the smoked salmon, caper and cream cheese sandwiches 150g/5½oz cream cheese ½ red onion, finely chopped 1 tbsp capers, drained, finely chopped 8 slices wholemeal bread, lightly buttered 8 slices smoked salmon For the egg and caper mayonnaise sandwiches 4 free-range eggs, hard-boiled, peeled, chopped 3-4 tbsp mayonnaise 1 tbsp capers, drained, finely chopped salt and freshly ground black pepper 8 slices bread, lightly buttered small punnet cress

METHOD • For the apple and cucumber sandwiches, mix the apple with the lemon juice.

• Spoon the cream cheese into a bowl and stir in the herbs.

Add the apple pieces and a little of the lemon juice.

• Arrange the cucumber slices along the bottom half of the baguette, slightly overlapping each slice. Spoon in the cream cheese and apple mixture and add the top half of the baguette. Slice into 5cm/2in sandwiches.

• For the smoked salmon, caper and cream cheese sandwiches, mix the cream cheese, red onion and capers together in a bowl.

• Spread this mixture onto four slices of the bread. Top with the smoked salmon and close the sandwiches with the remaining slices of bread.

• Remove the crusts and cut the sandwiches into quarters.

• For the egg and caper mayonnaise sandwiches, mix the eggs, mayonnaise and capers together in a bowl. Season, to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

• Spread the egg mayonnaise onto four slices of the bread.

Sprinkle over the cress and close the sandwiches with the remaining slices of bread.

• Remove the crusts and cut the sandwiches into fingers.

Scones INGREDIENTS

Recipe from: www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes

225g/8oz self raising flour Pinch of salt 55g/2oz butter 25g/1oz caster sugar 150ml/5fl oz milk 1 free-range egg, beaten, to glaze

METHOD • Heat the oven to 220C/425F/Gas 7. Lightly grease a baking sheet.

• Mix together the flour and salt and rub in the butter.

• Stir in the sugar and then the milk to get a soft dough.

• Turn on to a floured work surface and knead very lightly.

Pat out to a round 2cm/¾in thick. Use a 5cm/2in cutter to stamp out rounds and place on a baking sheet. Lightly knead together the rest of the dough and stamp out more scones to use it all up.

• Brush the tops of the scones with the beaten egg. Bake for 12-15 minutes until well risen and golden.

• Cool on a wire rack and serve with butter and good jam and maybe some clotted cream.

AFTERNOON TEA

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The Hengist Restaurant - Aylesford 7-9 High Street, Aylesford, ME20 7AX

he Hengist is in the heart of beautiful Aylesford village. Feel at home with a plentiful selection of sandwiches, cakes and tea whatever the occasion.

Decorated in a traditional style but with a quirky twist, downstairs is the place to come in for a coffee or a relaxed lunch.

Add a glass of fizz to make your afternoon tea experience even more special, £19.50 per person.

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£14.95 Per person

Book now on:

01622 885800 www.hengistrestaurant.co.uk

The London Beach Hotel - Tenterden Ashford Road, Tenterden, TN30 6HX

he London Beach is situated just outside the historic town of Tenterden and is surrounded by beautiful countryside with stunning views across the parkland golf course and beyond.

There is a large conservatory and terrace with wonderful views across the golf course where you can relax and enjoy a delicious afternoon tea.

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£10.50 Per person

Book now on: 01580 766279 www.londonbeach.com

AFTERNOON TEA

Fresh raspberry and lemon scented crème brûlée Method • Pre heat oven to 100°c or around gas mark ½, and boil your kettle.

• In a sauce pan add: milk, cream, lemon zest, vanilla pod and seeds. Bring to the boil gently.

• In a bowl add the egg yolks and sugar, gently whisk together untill combined.

• Divide the raspberries between 4 to 5 ramekins (dependent on size) and place in a suitable roasting tin.

• Pass through a fine sieve reserving the vanilla pod (can be washed and dried and added to sugar) and skim off any bubbles with a spoon or ladle.

• Pour the mixture half way up the ramekins and place into the oven.

• Add rest of mixture to the ramekins and put your boiling water into the roasting tin.

• Once boiled gradually add the cream mixture to the egg yolks whisking as you do so.

• Cook for around 25 minutes or until the brûlées have a set jelly like wobble to them.

• Leave to cool at room temperature for 1 hour then chill in fridge.

• Sprinkle with sugar and glaze with either a blow torch or under a hot grill.

• Serve with fresh raspberries, your favourite biscuit, and a good quality raspberry sorbet.

Ingredients 160g egg yolks 320g double cream 220g milk 1/2 vanilla pod split with seeds scraped out 100g sugar Zest 2 lemons 125g punnet raspberries

Recipe by: Who’d A Thought It

FOOD AND DRINK

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Chicken ballontine

with sage and apricot stuffing Ingredients 4 Large chicken legs boned (keep bones for stock) 200 grams sausage meat 1 small onion (fully diced) 2 cloves garlic (fully chopped) 100 grams chopped apricots Small handful of chopped sage, parsley Salt and pepper seasoning 8 sheets parmesan ham

Method For the stuffing • Gently fry off onions and garlic in a truffle oil (we use rapeseed oil). Add a little unsalted butter until soft. Add sage and apricots. Include sausage meat with a little seasoning, mix together then leave to cool.

For the chicken ballontine • Lay out chicken skin side down on the board, season lightly and check for no broken bones.

Add stuffing in small sausage shape and wrap.

Lay two slices of parma ham down and wrap around the chicken, then tightly wrap with cling film. Poach the chicken until 63°c then let the chicken rest and cool.

• When serving pan fry in oil and butter lightly until golden brown on the outside. We serve with dauphinoise potatoes, buttered baby leeks and parsley cream sauce.

For the chicken stock • Add 1ltr water, chicken bones and trimmings, 4/5 white peppercorns, parsley and thyme, small amount peeled and chopped carrot, ¼ onion peeled, one peeled clove of garlic bring to the boil and simmer for two to three hours.

Recipe by: London Beach Hotel

PAD THAI

rESTAURANT A Unique Experience At West Malling

Reservations now being taken for

T: 01732 870 000

Bank Holiday Sunday 30th August

www.pad-thai.co.uk manta@pad-thai.co.uk 15 HIGH STREET, WEST MALLING, KENT ME19 6QH

Authentic Thai Cuisine served in a traditional way in exceptional surroundings

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Smoked salmon crispy quail eggs, home made dill dressing Method • Poach the quail eggs for 1 and a half minutes. Cool in iced water then peel.

• Place eggs in flour, egg and breadcrumbs in that order then set aside.

• Arrange smoked salmon on the plate.

• Fry eggs in hot olive oil for 1 minute until golden.

• Cut in half and place around the salmon, sprinkle a few salt flakes on the eggs.

• Garnish with micro cress.

Dressing • Blanch dill in boiling water for 10 seconds, cool in iced water straight away then drain • Remove from stalks and place in a blender, gradually adding the olive oil until a pasty consistency.

• Put through a sieve and season the dressing with salt and pepper.

• Drizzle on the arranged salmon.

Recipe by: Elizabeth Restaurant

FOOD AND DRINK

Ingredients 100g Loch Duart smoked salmon 2 quail eggs 1 egg beaten 50g plain flour 60g breadcrumbs sea salt flakes Micro cress - garnish Bunch of dill Good quality virgin olive oil

Get TRAVEL ACTIVE as chosen by Baldwins Travel Group

Exodus

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xodus is the UK’s longest established Adventure tour Operator.

For over 40 years we have specialised in taking our clients off the beaten track to all corners of the globe. Our extensive portfolio of holidays now numbers around 400 tours to over 90 Countries to all 7 continents.

We pride ourselves on using predominantly local guides to show you around their National parks, UNESCO heritage sites, mountain ranges, rainforests, rivers and oceans.

Our accommodation is hand-picked and is focused on characteristics such as charm, character and location. These are the key attributes to our selections.

Whether your trip of a lifetime is tracking mountain gorillas, trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or discovering the temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, let Exodus take you there to discover the world differently in the capable hands of our award winning local staff.

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River Cruise Lines

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he River Cruise Line operates great value European and worldwide escorted river cruises. This independent company has been established for over 15 years and enjoys an admirable reputation with a high level of repeat business. All of their cruises are expertly planned and managed, with the advantage of flexible travel options. An excellent standard of service is delivered aboard carefully selected ships, some of

Sunvil

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et in the mid-Atlantic, Europe’s westernmost islands are the perfect choice for an adventurous holiday.

Their landscape is a vision of lush undulating countryside, glistening volcanic lakes, aromatic botanical gardens and uncrowded beaches. It is natural paradise and one of the most exquisite destinations for outdoor pursuits and authentic experiences.

From whale watching and swimming with dolphins to hiking, cycling, jeep tours and golf, there is much on offer. All activities can be pre-booked

by Sunvil Discovery and holidays tailored to suit individual requirements.

Choose the Azores this summer and discover nine unique islands and one of the best places in the world to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. All holidays can be tailored to meet your individual requirements.

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which are exclusively chartered to the River Cruise Line. There’s also a great choice of destinations with over 31 itineraries to over 16 countries, ranging from short springtime breaks to longer trips along some of the world’s greatest rivers.

There really is something for everyone and being a modest sized company you can enjoy a personal touch to the professional service they provide.

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Titan

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here are so many truly life-enhancing experiences offered by our wonderful world, and it’s never been easier to explore even the most far-flung of destinations.

Imagine watching the sun setting behind the peerless Taj Mahal, encountering your first wild elephants on an exhilarating African safari, or standing before the remarkable Terracotta Warriors of Xi’an; Titan,

the UK’s leading specialist in escorted touring holidays, can take you there in style and comfort. In fact, Titan can take you to some 70 countries, across six continents, and accompanied by a knowledgeable tour manager, you can be assured that each and every itinerary has been carefully created to include a superb selection of included excursions and visits, introducing you to the regions real highlights, with no hidden extra costs. And if you want to see as much as possible on your holiday, optional excursions, visiting some of the destinations lesser-known attractions, are often available too.

Regent Seven Seas

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nly Regent Seven Seas Cruises offer free unlimited shore excursions in every port. Unlimited means you take as many excursions during your voyage as time and your penchant for adventure allows.

Shore excursions are the heart of every destination, a way for you to experience history, culture and cuisine of the exciting ports visited with knowledgeable local guides and comfortable transportation. Cruise George Inlet, indulge in a taste of Alaska at a crab feast, walk the ancient pathways of Ephesus, Jerusalem or enjoy a tropical jungle trek in Phuket on a majestic elephant.

All free for you to enjoy.

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For intrepid explorers wishing to delve deeper, regent choice shore excursions offer unique, one-of-akind experiences available at a highly discounted charge, offsetting the cost of their extravagant nature. Whatever your choice — a free shore excursion or a Regent Choice Shore Excursion — the possibilities for discovery and opportunity for savings are extraordinary.

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Oceania

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very aspect of Marina and Riviera was designed with comfort and service in mind, from the exceptional Tranquillity beds, featuring a special camomile-infused mattress topper dressed with 1,000-threadcount, Egyptian cotton linens, to the exceptional treatments offered in the Canyon Ranch SpaClub. But it is the exceptional dining opportunities where you really see the difference.

On-board Riviera there is a choice of ten venues that include regional gourmet restaurants, from the newly introduced `Jaques’ French restaurant, to the original and exceptional `Red Ginger’ Asian fusion cuisine. All offered with no dining surcharges.

An original wine-pairing experience is provided in `La Reserve’, culinary lessons take place in the unique new `Bon Appetit Culinary Centre’, the only hands-on cookery school of its kind at sea, and a very special dining experience can be enjoyed by eight guests, attended by a private chef, in the private dining room `Privee’, adjacent to the `Toscana’ Italian restaurant and the `Polo Grill.

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Celebrity Cruises

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iscover the ultimate in modern luxury and exotic travel – with Canyon Ranch SpaClub® on Celebrity Cruises® as your perfect travel companion. Wherever you go, you can indulge in SpaClub experiences that will relax you after busy port excursions and energise you during leisurely days at sea. Enjoy fitness activities and a well-equipped gym to help you stay in shape. Balance mind and body with an array of yoga and meditation classes.

Indulge in legendary spa treatments that heal, soothe and beautify. Reward your hardworking feet with sole-

pleasing massage, and enhance your wellness with services such as Reiki and acupuncture. And, by all means, lose track of time in the enchanting Persian Garden, where aquatic features, from aromatic steam to sensory showers, will drench you in the unique restorative powers of water. SpaClub could be your favourite stop on your next Celebrity cruise.

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USA on Wheels

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f taking to the open road is your favourite spare time activity then why not make a holiday of it. USA on Wheels offer escorted motorbike tours on the infamous Route 66 or through the National Parks of America, Canada and more. New for this year is the 16 day ‘Wild Wild West’ tour which encompasses California, Arizona, Texas and New Mexico. We have a wide range of bikes and trikes to choose from so you

can make the most of your on the open road experience. Each escorted tour has an enthusiastic guide(s), a support vehicle with a spare motorbike and space for your luggage so you can relax and enjoy the ride while everything is taken care of. Prices include airport transfers, hotel accommodation and motorbike rental and we can tailor make your experience with pre and post tour stays.

Mark Warner

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uests have been jetting off with Mark Warner Holidays for over 40 years, so they know what makes a great holiday. With a host of activities on and off the water from sailing, to windsurfing - all with tuition, to tennis, mountain biking and a full fitness programme. Resorts are all in stunning locations across Europe including: Kos, Rhodes, Lemnos, Sardinia, Corsica and Bodrum, Turkey. Holidays include flights from London or Manchester, transfers and half, full or all inclusive board options. For parents who want to get involved with the activities, Mark Warner provides childcare from 4 months – 17 years run by our experienced British childcare staff. Children can have fun in a safe and welcoming environment ensuring everyone can have the holiday they deserve.

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A life spent in the fast lane Meet the man with racing in his veins

multiple motorsport world champion John surtees

ook at the history of modern motorracing and the face of one of the world’s most thrilling and popular sports has changed dramatically.

Where once riders wore soft leather hats and the racers were personalities who worked hard and played hard, often in environments where driver safety was low down the list of priorities, today the environment is a world away.

Yet from the 1950s through to the current day, one man has remained wedded with an industry he has always loved. He has raced at the very highest level on both two wheels and four, winning world titles in a way unmatched ever since and in a manner few believe will ever be emulated again.

John Surtees is your bona fide motorsport legend – a man who has been there, seen it and, most importantly, done it.

Today, at the age of 81, he remains immersed in motorsport and, coincidentally, the oldest surviving Formula One world champion. A regular sight at West Kingsdown race track Brands Hatch and a familiar face in Edenbridge, where he has based much of his working life.

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And earlier this year, he cemented his Kentish presence by increasing his stake in Chatham karting circuit Buckmore Park by moving from part-owner to taking it over completely.

As a consequence, he is now in pole position to help nurture the next generation of racing talent – who cut their teeth on the bends, straights and chicanes of the popular race track.

But despite his own personal success, John Surtees’ life has not been without tragedy – most notably when his beloved son, Henry, was killed in a freak accident in 2009 as he competed in a Formula Two race. He was just 18. As a consequence he set up the Henry Surtees Foundation in his late son’s honour and does much to raise funds for its worthy projects.

He explains: “The foundation is designed to assist people with brain or physical injuries caused by accidents and to help them in their recovery.

“It also aims to provide education and training associated with motorsport-related programmes in technology, engineering and road safety on two and four wheels.

“Plus it should act as a resource for young people by providing advice and assistance with the organisation of physical education and other activities.”

It has done a great deal of good so far, donating tens of thousands of pounds to local organisations.

Yet while he remains visibly upset when discussing his son, it has not lessened his appetite to take part in a sport which has defined him and which he has done so much to define.

Today he is looking increasingly frail as age starts to gain on him, yet his mind remains lightning fast.

One can only assume that is as a consequence of refusing to take it easy in retirement, refusing to take the slow lane after a life in the fast one.

It is a life which may only be fully celebrated, fully appreciated after his death, when the world looks back and reflects on a remarkable life in such a fiercely competitive industry.

Not that he has not been recognised in his long life. Quite aside from the myriad of trophies he has collected during his career, in 1969 he was named BBC Sports Personality of the Year and more recently was inducted into the International Motorsports a

Georg Meier riding the 1939 BMW Type 255 Kompressor at the 1989 Isle of Man TT Race CELEBRITY FEATURE

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Hall of Fame, officially named a Grand Prix Legend by the FIM in 2003 and built on his MBE with an OBE in the Queen’s 2008 Birthday Honours list.

That, despite an online petition calling for him to be knighted – an honour which he must surely, eventually, receive.

So just how and why is he celebrated in such a way?

Born in February 1934, his father was a south London motorcycle dealer and successful sidecar racer – thus he grew up surrounded by engineering and a sense of the thrill of speed.

It was from his father that his love of racing was developed – primarily driven by an inspiring picture of 1939 Isle of Man TT winner Georg Meier.

“I’ve never been one for hero worship,” Surtees recalls, “but that picture made an enormous impression on me.”

He was just 15 when he entered his first grasstrack race on a bike – the first outing of a career which would soon see him become one of the most celebrated motorcycling champions. Unlike many, he was building and riding the bikes.

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He rode for his first factory team in 1955 – a season which saw him finish the season by beating the then reigning world champion Geoff Duke at Silverstone and Brands Hatch.

A year later, he would deliver on his promise after switching to the MV Augusta team – scooping the 500cc world title.

Success continued with more titles in 1958, 1959 and 1960.

He also conquered the demanding and dangerous Isle of Man TT three years in succession – in the 1960 race became the first race winner to clock an average speed in excess of 100mph.

Having proved himself so dominantly on two wheels, he decided to try his hand on four – and is immediately offered rides in Formula Junior, Formula 2 and Formula 1.

He opts to join the F1 Yeoman Credit Cooper team – having turned down Lotus – but his first season, in 1961, is a tough one, although he secured a second place finish in just his second race. However, he does receive the MBE from the Queen for his services to motorbike racing.

By 1963 he signs for Ferrari – the following year he would win them the drivers’ championship. In doing so he became the first – and only – man ever to win world titles on bikes and cars.

The following year, 1965, he would suffer a crash which nearly took his life.

While speeding around a race circuit in Canada in a Lola T70 race car, he was involved in a crash when his suspension failed at 125mph. It saw him emerge with one side of his body four inches shorter than the other.

Medics worked hard to fix the damage, stretching his shattered body until the difference was less than an inch.

By 1970, his desire for control led him to design and build his own Grand Prix car – created at new premises he took over at Edenbridge – called Team Surtees.

Two years later, however, he opted to retire from competitive racing.

Team Surtees would continue in top level sport until 1979 before it was sold.

But John Surtees was far from finished. He pursued a property business and continued car and bike restoration, while also continuing with extensive motorsport involvement and consultancy work.

He stepped back into the spotlight in 2005 for the ambitious A1 Grand Prix series – which pitted a CELEBRITY FEATURE

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similar-spec cars racing in the colours of various nations. He was chairman of the Great Britain team.

Meanwhile, his son, Henry, was proving to be something of a chip off the old block and his career was accelerating.

However, in 2009, Henry’s young life was taken from him in the most cruel of manners – a freak accident during a Formula 2 race saw a tyre from a competitor’s car bounce back across the track during a race at John Surtees’ beloved Brands Hatch and strike the 18-year-old. He died almost instantly.

His father described the accident as an “absolutely stupid tragedy”.

But just this year he increased his stake in Buckmore Park karting circuit – a breeding ground for young racers which saw the likes of Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button dazzle in their youth.

He assumed full control and has ambitious plans for its development.

He may be 81, he should be enjoying a peaceful retirement, but John Surtees has blood and motor oil in his veins. mmm

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GARDENING WITH FAMILY

in the summer

Summer gardening is an enjoyable, engaging activity that helps families to

create a connection with the natural world around them

Work together to achieve a goal hether digging in the soil, composting food waste, planting seeds in wet paper towels or growing herbs in a window box, gardening can be an enjoyable and worthwhile activity for the whole family.

Playing or working in a garden stimulates all five senses and helps children to learn new skills, develop self-confidence, socialise and become nurturers.

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ardening requires team work — and lots of it! Assign each member of the family a certain job to maintain your garden. These tasks might include planting new seeds, watering and picking the vegetables and flowers, etc. Each week, rotate jobs across your family members so everyone becomes familiar with the different jobs associated with maintaining your garden. a

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just add dirt ontainer gardens are a great way to slowly transform any area (especially small yards and city patios) into a garden space. Almost anything your family uses can be used as a container: coffee cans, milk jugs, egg cartons, yogurt containers and even old shoes! Before adding soil, seeds and flowers, poke a few holes in the bottom of the container, add a few rocks for drainage and ensure the container is placed in a spot where it gets adequate sunlight.

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trial and error ardens are open-ended learning laboratories — for the whole family.

Since children are innate scientists and love to experience the sights, scents, sounds and textures of the outdoors, get creative with your garden and experiment by planting different vegetables and plants. Be willing to put up with a less-than-perfect looking garden — if a certain vegetable doesn’t grow or a flower doesn’t bloom, at least it was a learning experience and you and your family can explore other options.

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Picking off flowers frequently encourages most annuals to flower

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enjoy the fruits of your work ith the whole family, take time to research delicious recipes that require ingredients you’re growing in the garden. If you’re growing eggplant, perhaps plan on making an eggplant casserole for dinner. Or if you’re growing fruits like strawberries and blueberries, a large fruit salad it an excellent and refreshing dessert during the summer months.

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MORNING SUN is more beneficial for your garden than afternoon sun

Our friendly team Trade & Wholesale enquiries welcome

host a summer garden swap

An established family run business supplying a vast selection of the finest quality natural stone for projects of all sizes. We look forward to working with you.

Indian Sandstone Paving From £13.50 per metre

www.mgnaturalstone.co.uk sales@mgnaturalstone.co.uk

01622 850002 f other families in your street have also planted a garden, consider setting up a night where everyone brings fruits and vegeables that they have grown and then, swap away! For example, swap a container of the beautiful cherry tomatoes you grew in your garden for five cucumbers your neighbour grew. By swapping, you and your family can try new summer recipes too!

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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 skip 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, quartz or recycled glass. They can fit made-tomeasure woodgrain or high gloss cabinet doors in place of the existing ones. Then magically install handcrafted glass mosaic splashbacks over your old tiles.

If your kitchen looks like it’s finally out of fashion, then Granite Transformations have many exciting colours and finishes to add zest to your décor. To 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.

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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-back white and off-white. Or 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 worktops, 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 dark 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 auberginecoloured 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 kitchen, so by preserving them and refacing with made-to measure worktops 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 Transformations can fit those too, using a special process that cuts the installation process drastically and produces a perfect finish every time. Whether it’s a four-inch splashback 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 skilled 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 kitchen, 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

Bathroom BLiss Create a stylish bathroom

whether contempory or traditional

morris

and turner

orris and Turner is a family run business which has been trading in Chatham for over four decades.

They have built their reputation for exceptional customer service and delivery of good quality products through meticulous attention to customer needs and the provision of value for money at all times. Morris and Turner are situated in a warehouse environment with ample adjacent free parking and are able to offer a free bathroom design service with help from their qualified bathroom designers, shaping up for a bigger future in the bathroom trade.

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They embrace change and aim at creating a very enjoyable experience for their customers by modernising their showrooms, which with a combined area of some 5,000 square feet, you can count on them being regularly updated to display the modern, contemporary and traditional bathroom designs. As well as fireplaces to suit your every need be it electric, gas or wood burner.

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SHOwERing in STylE

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

We have completed the refurbishment of our extensive showroom at Third Avenue, Chatham.

We have 100s of new products arriving every week.’’

4 Third Avenue, Chatham Kent, ME5 0AD Tel: 01634 813813

Easy access for special needs Ample Parking

www.morrisandturner.co.uk info@morrisandturner.co.uk BATHROOM FEATURE

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catchpole and rye uxury bathroom manufacturers Catchpole and Rye Ltd., are a local Kent based company whose iconic brand has claimed international success. To see their collection, visit them at their large showroom and workshops in Pluckley or at their London showroom on the Fulham Road.

Pieces include beautiful copper bateau baths, castiron French roll top baths, elegant console basins and wooden vanity units, polished cast-metal cisterns and a variety of bathroom taps and showers.

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Every single bath they manufacture is 100% cast iron and 100% British made.

In their own opinion, every bath is a unique piece in its own right and they pride themselves on their superior craftsmanship and quality finish.

All of their baths are poured using the same techniques that their foundry has been using for the last 100 years.

The original bateau bath was made over 120 years ago but the design and methods have remained the same.

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globe lobe Plumbing and Heating in Strood has over 25 years of experience of supplying a wide range of quality bathroom fixtures and fittings.

Here you’ll find a broad spectrum of practical to luxury items that will satisfy all bathroom fitting needs. With helpful staff and bathrooms for all budgets, they are a company you can approach for any of your bathroom needs.

Focused on providing high quality service and advice, they will do everything they can to give you the bathroom to meet your expectations.

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plumbing and heating ltd Globe are specialists in all aspects of bathroom suites and cloakroom suites including: toilets, basins, taps, shower valves, shower enclosures, shower trays and towel rails, central heated and electric, all at very competitive prices.

“Something for everyone” Bathroom Showroom & Plumbers Merchants Range Of Bathroom Suites & Showers l Boilers, Radiators & Controls l Wide Range Of Spares & Parts l Domestic & Trade Welcome l Friendly Experienced & Knowledgeable Service l

l Wide

FREE local Delivery www.globeplumbing.co.uk

01634 730392 48 High Street Strood, Rochester Kent, ME2 4AR

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ask

plumbing and heating centre

ith a great passion for providing luxurious and high-quality designs for contemporary lifestyles, designing your own unique bathroom has never been easier with Ask Plumbing.

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Their collection of taps, showers and accessories are ideal for high-design bathrooms. With a range which includes smaller basins which are suited to cloakrooms, to larger basins and bathroom furniture.

Also, their complementary sanitaryware range enables you to create a spa-style in any setting.

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KIA SORENTO ‘iF DESIGN AWARD Prestigious ‘iF Design Award’

FOR THIRD-GENERATION KIA SORENTO ia Motors continues to reel in awards for its outstanding design. Now the Kia Sorento, the brand’s flagship SUV, has received the prestigious ‘iF Design Award’ for the first time.

The judges of the globally-recognised design awards programme honoured the third generation of the Sorento, which went on sale across Europe in March 2015, with an award in the ‘Product’ category. As well as awarding the car for the overall quality of its design, the jury rated the car on criteria such as finish, degree of innovation, environmental impact and safety.

The all-new Kia Sorento is the seventh Kia model to secure an iF Design Award. In every year since 2010, at least one of the coveted awards has been scooped

by Kia Motors, with previous winners from the brand including the Kia Venga, Sportage, Optima, Picanto, pro_cee’d and Soul.

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Great versatility, high-tech features and new allwheel-drive system.

The new Kia Sorento is a stylish and practical SUV with exceptional versatility and practicality. The smoother, swept-back profile and deeply sculpted surfaces give the Kia Sorento a lithe, elegant appearance. The spacious interior follows the horizontal lines of the overall design concept and delivers a luxurious look and feel with top-quality materials throughout the cabin. 

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The new Kia Sorento, which is available with five or seven seats, has a longer wheelbase and provides more passenger room than its predecessor. The luggage area is larger, and thanks to the sliding, 60:40-split seat row it is even more versatile, holding up to 1,732 litres.

The Kia Sorento has a powerful and efficient 200 ps (147 kW) 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine, while four-wheel drive versions are fitted with Kia’s new Dynamax™ AllWheel-Drive system with torque vectoring.

High-tech specifications and a range of premium features, including the 360-degree Around View

Monitor and smart parking system make it easy to manoeuvre and park. Buyers can also choose from the latest safety assistance systems, from lane departure warning to rear cross traffic alert and traffic sign recognition, through to adaptive cruise control.

Spencer Gale

Harbour Garage Kia, Branch Manager “Harbour Garage is part of the Northgate Garage Group which is family owned and run; family values run throughout our business. Early last year we underwent a complete redevelopment and we are very proud of our new facilities. We

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also have a new fully fitted workshop which can service not only Kia but all makes and models of vehicles, as well as a new parts department. We would very much welcome you to come and have a look round our new showroom and meet me and my new team.”

Opening hours Sales - Monday to Saturday: 8.30am till 6pm Sunday: 10am till 4pm Aftersales - Monday to Friday: 8.15am till 5.30pm Saturday: 8.15am till 1pm

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JB Garage Doors & Gate Systems

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VxÄxuÜtà|Çz ÉäxÜ GC çxtÜá Éy uâá|Çxáá You can be sure that your garage door installation is expertly carried out with no fuss, and you will see why we are the number one garage door company.

• Automation of new and existing doors gates and barriers • Domestic and commercial • Maintenance contracts • Access control • Supply and install • Servicing and repairs

Straw Mill Hill, Tovil, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6FL Tel: 01622 683200 Fax: 01622 685546 Email: info@jbgaragedoors.co.uk Website: www.jbgaragedoors.co.uk FREE PHONE 0800 035 2798

BRITISH Aircraft Company Not generally known as a town for its industrial heritage, Maidstone once led the country in the development of flight.

ROBIN J BROOKS LOOKS AT A LONG FORGOTTEN PERIOD AND A COMPANY KNOWN AS THE BRITISH AIRCRAFT COMPANY he old Granada cinema sits at the end of Lower Stone Street in a forlorn and delapidated condition. Out of use for many years it houses a secret that was to lead the world in the advancement of flight. Since the first days of flight at Leydsown in 1909, several individuals had been experimenting with their own aeronautical designs. One such person was Charles Herbert Lowe-Wylde, known to his colleagues as ‘Jimmy’ Lowe-Wylde.

Born in Newcastle in 1901, he had built his first glider in 1915 when he was apprenticed to Sir Armstrong-Whitworth and Co., a world famous firm of engineers which had taken up aircraft construction and design during World War One. Lowe-Wylde proved a very apt apprentice building several homebuilt aeroplanes before joining the RAF at the end of his apprenticeship. After a few years in the service he left to join the Blackburn Aircraft Company and later the Supermarine Aeroplane company. By the late 1920s gliding was very popular in Europe and especially in Germany, restricted as the country was by the ban on powered flight under the Treaty of Versailles. As the idea spread to England, Jimmy Lowe-Wylde vowed to be the first in the country to design, build and fly gliders. Recruiting four other enthusiasts including an ex RFC pilot, Tony Green and Phillip Haynes, the owner of Haynes Motors of Maidstone, the group got together to bandy about ideas for a perfect glider.

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With the design completed, they hired a room at the back of a public house in Maidstone called the ‘Nag’s Head’ and began to build their own version of the German ‘SG38 Zogling’ glider. (Not for Jimmy the popular theory that German pioneers should be invited over to the UK to show ‘how it was done’.)

The glider was to be a single seat Primary glider with the wings being supported by wire braces.

(Later versions were to have two struts for additional strength.) It had a cabane to protect the pilot if the glider overturned. Such was the enthusiasm of the group for a British built glider to fly that, in addition to building the aircraft, Jimmy also helped to found the Kent Gliding Club on January 4th 1930. Working very long hours the glider was completed in just five weeks, no mean achievement given the cramped conditions that it was built in. However removing it from the back room of the ‘Nag’s Head’ proved more difficult than the construction. After several attempts to get it out the front door way had ended in failure, the different parts were ‘smuggled’ over garden walls and fences at the back of the pub and carried as far as Union Street before being loaded onto one of Haynes Brothers lorries.

February 23rd 1930 with the prospect of a fine day ahead saw the pioneers and their glider arrive at the Kent Gliding Club airfield at Detling, a former World War One airfield. Arriving early LoweWylde and his team began to assemble the wings to the fuselage. Watched by other members of the 

A competition glider of today, far removed from the early designs of Lowe-Wylde

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74 mmm Jimmy Lowe-Wylde airbourne at Detling airfield in 1930

Jimmy Lowe-Wylde aligns the tow ropes for ‘Columbus’

club, Jimmy christened the glider ‘Columbus’ (s/n BGA101) and began to prepare to take off.

Instructing his groundcrew to ‘take up the slack’, they walked ahead of ‘Columbus’ stretching the bungy rubber rope as far as they could. With two people holding each wingtip, Jimmy shouted ‘go’ as they released their hold on the glider. Gathering speed it soon became airborne to the cheers and applause of the other club members. This flight, the first in Britain to be flown by an all-British designed and constructed glider, placed Jimmy in the aviation history books.

With further flights being conducted at Detling, Lenham and West Malling airfields, on March 30th 1930 Jimmy gained his British ‘A’ Gliding Certificate No.1, the first to be issued in the UK. The aircraft became known as BAC1 as he founded a company for the production of gliders. Known as the British Aircraft Company, work began in the same room at the ‘Nag’s Head’. After BAC1 there were to be seven further improved designs culminating in the BACV111, a two seat flying boat glider. One further

design known as the BAC1X was a single seat glider for home construction.

With this increase in production, a move was made to larger premises in the old disused brewery of Isherwood, Foster and Lacey in Lower Stone Street, Maidstone. With financial backing from Mr Kingsley Barcham Green and his wife Sheila, the factory flourished with gliders being built for other clubs throughout the country. It became a limited company in 1931 as the reputation of Jimmy LoweWylde as a fine craftsman spread throughout the aviation fraternity. He would deliver his gliders personally giving demonstrations as far afield as the Isle of Wight. The testing of gliders now moved to the new flying ground at Lenham and it was here that he pioneered the practise of launching gliders by towing them behind cars in favour of the bungy method. His Bentley driven by Mrs Green was able to launch him to a height of 300ft.

With the workforce in Maidstone now topping twenty, 1931 saw the first flight of the BACV111 from the River Medway. This was a two seat tandem Super Drone similar to the one in which Lowe-Wylde was killed at West Malling - Credit: Flight

Jimmy Lowe-Wylde in typical pose- Lenham 1930

The BAC works in the Maidstone Brewery Credit - Flight HISTORY FEATURE

A primary glider ready for launching at Lenham

A primary glider ready for launching at Lenham

sailplane developed from the BACV11. It was fitted with a flying boat hull and wingtip floats and was towed into the air by a speedboat. Though it was successful in achieving flight, no orders where forthcoming and the idea of a sea glider was dropped.

On April 12th 1931 the first two seat BACV11 flew. The second production model was sponsored by novelist Barbara Cartland and was intended to compete for the Daily Mail cross-Channel competition prize. Unfortunately although towed by a De Havilland 60 Moth of National Flying Services, the tow was unable to get above 6,000ft, insufficient height for a crossing of the Channel to be made.

Another venture that came to the workshops in Maidstone was the construction of the Percival Gull prototype G-ABUR. This was a cabin monoplane looking more like the light aircraft that we see around today. Built by a team of BAC workers and supervised by the designer, Edgar Percival, it was fitted with a 130hp Cirrus Hermis IV engine.

According to the recollections of an employee of the BAC, Jimmy took the work on at cost in the hope that Percival would give his company work in constructing further Gulls. Percival however had no loyalty and set up his own factory at Gravesend Airport to build the Gull. Although this was the only one built by the BAC, later Gulls went on to win many air races of the period.

Ever one to look forward, in 1933 Jimmy LoweWylde designed a BACV111 to accommodate a 600cc Douglas motorbike engine.

With the rear cockpit faired over, the engine was mounted on a steel tube pylon on top of the wings where it drove a pusher propeller. This ultra light aircraft was known as a ‘Planette’. Within months the prototype (s/n BGA186) was completed and ready for test flying.

The morning of May 13th saw the Planette taken to West Malling airfield (Maidstone Airport), to be readied for a demonstration flight by Jimmy.

Known as the ‘motorcycle of the air’, Jimmy had arrived to demonstrate it to the Maidstone Flying Club. With assistance from the assistant engineer at the airport, Mr George Goodhew to assemble the Planette, Jimmy was ready by 6.15pm to give the first demonstration.

Running the 600cc engine up he took off and after five to eight minutes of flight, landed successfully back on the grass. No problems were encountered with the flight and after refuelling, he prepared for a second demonstration. Again the take-off was normal, this time climbing to about 1,000ft. After a minute or so at this height, Jimmy descended to about 200ft when he started to turn to the left on a steep bank. He then started a slide slip which became uncontrollable and the frail craft plunged to the ground, sadly killing Jimmy.  HISTORY FEATURE

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The glider ‘Columbus’ packed and ready to be transported to Detling

The only BAC Drone left is in the Duxford Museum Credit - P.G.Smith

Employee Mrs Winfride Stead on the roof of the Maidstone works

For a moment the watching club members were stunned. As the Planette broke up throwing the engine some considerable distance away, they rushed to rescue Jimmy but it was too late. He had died instantly as the aircraft hit the ground.

His tragic death at just 32 years old left a widow and three young children without a father. At the inquest into his death, it was stated by a female employee who had travelled to West Malling with him that morning, that his endless work plus lack of sleep was his downfall. On the morning of the incident Jimmy had stopped his car near the airport and shown the lady an injury to his finger which was causing him considerable pain. She further stated that he had not had a meal that day and due to the height that he had taken the Planette, may have fainted at the controls.

His funeral at Hither Green cemetery in SE London was attended by many from the aviation industry. Sometime later Gordon England of the British Gliding Association raised £1,100 through a public appeal to care for the education of Jimmy’s children. The British Aircraft Company Ltd was taken over by an Austrian aviator, Robert Kronfeld and moved to a new factory at the London Air Park at Hanworth. The Maidstone factory was put up for sale to be eventually demolished to make way for new buildings including the Granada cinema.

No memorial tablet to Jimmy Low-Wylde has ever been placed close to the site of his achievements and in Hither Green cemetery, just bare grass marks his burial plot. All of this a very sad epitaph to an aviation pioneer who placed Maidstone in the aeronautical history book. BY ROBIN J BROOKS

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Local News KeNt BUSINeSS NeWS KENT HISTORY AWARDS TOP £35,000 Kent’s local, social and family history enthusiasts have until 31st March 2016 to apply for the next tranche of grants to be awarded by the Kent Archaeological Society from its Allen Grove Local History Fund.

Amounts of up to £1,000 are offered annually to individuals, groups, organizations and students to help cover the cost of research, publications, exhibitions and other projects focused on the county’s history and heritage.

Allen Grove (pictured above) was one of Kent’s most eminent historians of his generation. He was curator of Maidstone Museum from 1948 to 1975, Hon. curator of the KAS for 26 years (and

its president in 1987/88) and chairman of the Kent History Federation for eight years.

When he died in 1990 he left £26,000 from the proceeds of the sale of his house to the KAS, with instructions that the society should invest the legacy and distribute the interest in ways that would promote the enjoyment of Kent’s local history.

The first grants were made in 1994 and the total amount awarded since then now exceeds £35,000, mainly to support the publication of books and booklets but also for displays in heritage centres, for oral history projects, and for establishing archives and research centres.

“WAR GAmES”: AN ExHIbITION fROm THE V&A muSEum Of CHIlDHOOD The latest exhibition showing at No. 1 Smithery: The Gallery at The Historic Dockyard Chatham, Kent, is the nostalgic and thought-provoking highly acclaimed touring exhibition from the V&A Museum of Childhood in London: “War Games”.

The exhibition, which is for adults and children alike, features a vast and diverse collection of classic and retro toys and games spanning over 200 years; tin ships and toy soldiers, action figures including Action Man, GI Joe and Iron Man; toy weapons and ‘anti-war’ toys; strategy board games including Risk and computer games including “Call of Duty”, as well as examples of fascinating science fiction and space adventure like Star Wars and Dr Who. “War Games” explores the intriguing relationship between conflict and children’s play, providing a fascinating insight into the ways toys and games have been influenced by warfare over the last 200 years through four different sections - Playing at War, On the Battlefield, Reality to Fantasy and Secret Weapons. One of the centre pieces of the exhibition is a three dimensional vibrant action scene, featuring familiar space fantasy toys, iconic green toy soldiers and action figures, as well as many other recognisable characters.

Alex Patterson, collections and galleries manager at The Historic Dockyard Chatham said: “One of the many brilliant things about this nostalgic yet provocative exhibition, which has received rave reviews from critics and visitors alike, is that it appeals to all generations across the family. It’s a real eye-opener for children, and parents and grandparents can enjoy showing their families the toys of their youth! It is highly interactive encouraging children to dress up, play at espionage and engage in many other activities, such as Morse Code breaking.”

War Games runs from 27th June until 20th September in No. 1 Smithery: The Gallery and is included in the normal dockyard admission price.

LOCAL NEWS

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KENT BUSINESSMEN TO PRESENT BUSINESS PLAN TO SIR RICHARD BRANSON Brand new and revolutionary money exchange business Fourex, founded by Kent-based businessmen Jeff Paterson and Oliver Du Toit, has beaten over 2,500 other products and businesses to make it through to the final ten of Virgin Business Media’s ‘Pitch to Rich 2015’.

Offering a complete world first to the global market, Fourex is set to transform the way the UK exchanges currency. Oliver and Jeff have already enjoyed a series of successes, securing business contracts with Transport for London and Westfield shopping centres, as well as receiving £671,450 worth of investments through crowdfunding (with an overfund of 244% in under two weeks). Fourex are now one of just ten brands in Virgin’s ‘New Things’ category. If the general public vote Fourex

Oliver Du Toit (left), Jeff Paterson (right)

into the top three between 2nd and 19th June 2015, Oliver and Jeff will be pitching their concept to Sir Richard Branson himself. With the chance to take home a share in over £1,000,000 of Virgin prizes, including advertising campaigns, cash prizes and invaluable mentoring from the brand’s bigwigs, it is an incredible opportunity to bring Fourex to life.

Jeff Paterson, Co-Founder of Fourex comments: “We have been completely humbled by the interest, excitement and investment we have received so far for Fourex, not only from multimillion pound companies such as TFL and Westfield, but from the 436 people from every corner of the globe who invested in us through CrowdCube. To be in the final ten is unbelievable.

It confirms that we’re on the right track and have a product the public can relate to, and need. It’s now down to them to decide whether we have an idea worth presenting to one of the world’s greatest entrepreneurs.”

Fourex’s solution to an everyday problem is set to completely shake up the world of foreign exchange...Show your support for two Kent entrepreneurs and vote for Fourex in Virgin Business Media’s ‘Pitch to Rich 2015’ competition!

To vote go to: www.pitchtorich.co.uk/fourex

SOUTH EAST MEP BREWS FOR BEER DAY BRITAIN Richard Ashworth MEP for South East England has played guest brewer for the day; brewing the beer that will be used to toast the inaugural Beer Day Britain.

Brewing took place as part of a tour of Britain’s oldest brewer, Shepherd Neame in Faversham, Kent.

The brewery is busy preparing for Beer Day Britain, a celebration of the UK’s favourite alcoholic drink. The national ‘cheers to beer’ is taking place on Monday, June 15th, which is also Magna Carta Day, marking the 800th anniversary of the rule of law. Celebrations are planned in breweries and pubs across the country, with a simultaneous toast taking place at 12.15pm.

Richard Ashworth MEP brewed in the UK’s last remaining solid wooden mash tuns during his visit on Friday, May 29th. He also had the opportunity to see significant investments made recently to Shepherd Neame’s historic site. This included a £3.5 million water recovery plant, which has reduced water usage by 40%.

Speaking after the visit, Chief Executive Jonathan Neame said: “We very much welcomed the opportunity to show Mr Ashworth the investments we’ve been making in the brewery in recent years, LOCAL NEWS

plus a glimpse of our rich history. The impact of EU regulation is keenly felt in our industry, so it’s extremely valuable for us to offer members first-hand experience of what it’s like in our sector.”

Richard Ashworth MEP added: “Brewing beer is only half the story, the success of this sector impacts on agriculture, manufacturing and retailing. There are more than 150 breweries in my constituency which directly employ 100,000 people and provide a further 140,000 jobs in the supply chain. It’s been great to get a sense of the role this historic brewery plays in the thriving industry behind our national drink.”

Jonathan Neame (left) and Richard Ashworth (right)

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Tesco admiTs breaking grocery code of pracTice Tracy Ewen, managing director of Kent based, IGF Invoice Finance, comments on the news that Tesco has admitted breaking grocery code of practice over treatment of suppliers.

“The admission from Tesco that it has been mistreating its suppliers tells many small business owners what they already know - that the payment terms many are subjected to are unacceptable. For a large number of small businesses this clearly isn’t a practice that’s sustainable, but it is a reality they have very little power to change. Furthermore, the news that the Grocery Code Adjudicator (GCA) will soon be able to fine retailers 1% of UK revenue will be welcomed by SME owners; a huge extension of its current limited powers to merely ‘name and shame’.

However, until such powers to fine and take serious legal action against supermarkets are introduced, we may see small companies fold unnecessarily. The macroeconomic impact of this could have damaging repercussions for the economy as a whole. For those firms mired in long payment terms, there are options available that cover the gap between work completed and money in the bank. It’s therefore important for firms to thoroughly review their options and make use of any free financial advice that their own financial partners and suppliers can offer before pressure from large customers impacts their growth or operations.”

neW sUrVey on sTrUggLe WHen appLying for morTgage New research from credit information provider, Equifax, conducted in collaboration with What Mortgage reveals that 4 in 10 (42%) of those surveyed in the South East thought they would not find it easy to provide all supporting evidence of expenditure information needed when applying for a mortgage. The release of the research coincides with the anniversary of the new affordability rules which came into effect last April and demonstrates the contrast in consumer perceptions about the mortgage application process and the reality of the property purchase process since the new rules came into effect.

One homebuyer said: “I was aware that I would potentially need to supply a lot of information when applying for a mortgage but I wasn’t sure exactly how much detail was needed. It turned out to be a lot less than I had originally thought. I had to go through my income details with the bank and also some recent statements from my current account in a bit more detail. I had anticipated the process would take at least 6 months, but in reality it was all completed within 5 weeks!”

LOCAL NEWS

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HANNAH DuRSTON Of WHITEHEAD mONCKTON WINS THE JuNIOR lAWYER Of THE YEAR AWARD Your Will can be a very powerful tool to help your loved ones. Just as you take expert advice when buying a new house or investment plan, it’s even more important to take expert advice regarding your Will.

There are many reasons for a lack of a Will, or for not reviewing a current Will – we’ve highlighted a selection below, but you’ll see with our assistance these reasons need not stop you from completing a Will.

• Lack of time – most Wills are signed and safely stored in our archive after just two meetings: the first meeting to provide your instructions and the second meeting to sign your Will.

• Complex family circumstances – for us the complex is commonplace, we can advise on the options available to you.

• Too many difficult decisions to make about Executors, Guardians etc – we can offer guidance, you do not have to make all of the decisions before your appointment.

• Cost – yes, there is a cost to making a Will which needs to be considered in proportion to the value of your home, your savings etc.

• Too morbid – making a Will does remind us of our own mortality, but with a Will safely stored in our archive you can relax knowing that you are leaving clear wishes and that you have provided for your loved ones. Without a Will the assets you have worked hard for will pass in accordance with the fixed rules of intestacy.

So book an appointment now with our friendly solicitors to discuss your Will requirements. You will feel empowered and reassured knowing that your wishes are in place and you can then look forward to the Summer in a positive light.

AERIAl SuRVEYING COmPANY HAS bIG PlANS fOllOWING mOVE TO DISCOVERY PARK Geospatial survey solutions company Skycap has taken office space in Discovery Park in Sandwich, Kent, to grow their business and work on the launch of ground-breaking new products.

After taking a tour of the park last year, the company were impressed by the sheer number and calibre of businesses on site and recognised that there were a lot of current and potential clients.

It set up an office to create a presence in the South East, which is seen as an important growth area for the company. The new office will act as a hub for the business, enabling it to grow its imagery analysis and data analysis team.

Patrick Rickerby, director of Skycap’s Geospatial Solutions, said: “Over the next 12 months, we hope to grow our survey team and take on a number of pilots. We also want to grow to be the best in our field across the UK.” Patrick joined Skycap after his company Intelligent Mapping Solutions was acquired by them.

He said: “Discovery Park provides a great environment for collaboration but it is also a place to focus and get down to business.”

The company, which dedicates itself to innovation, has exciting plans for the future, LOCAL NEWS

starting with the launch of an unmanned aerial systems-based Ground Penetrating Radar, which has enormous implications in efforts to map the world’s 100 million undetected landmines. Its long-range solar powered unmanned aircraft has already gone into production and Skycap’s R&D department are also working in the fields of unmanned systems sense and avoid capability.

Skycap has also set up its own registered charity called ShadowView Foundation, an organisation that uses unmanned aerial support in Africa to catch illegal poachers and protect the environment.

Patrick said: “All of the employees of Skycap are actively involved in this programme, where the company ethos is to encourage social enterprise.”

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Promotions as CriPPs Continues to grow A host of promotions has been announced by Cripps as the Kent-based law firm celebrates its most successful year to date.

A total of 15 staff have been appointed to senior positions with one becoming a partner, five moving up to the role of managing associates and a further nine promoted to associates.

Managing partner Gavin Tyler said: “At Cripps we pride ourselves in giving the best service to our clients and one of the ways we ensure this is by supporting our staff and acknowledging their dedication.

“I am delighted their hard work and expertise are being recognised and look forward to working with them as they continue to contribute to the success of the team.”

The promotions follow a record year for Cripps, which saw turnover grow from £22.8m in 2013/14 to £26.2m in 2014/15.

Ed Fowler, a real estate expert who advises on the property aspects of corporate transactions, has become a partner at Cripps after 11 years with the firm.

Also in the real estate and investment department, Ben Johnston is now a managing associate, while Tim Collier, Ian Hoare and Natalie Mulholland have become associates.

Further promotions to associate include: Ray Bennett (estates), Caroline Hedley (corporate PSL), Jane Hodge (tax), Stephen Horscroft (advisory), Claire Tollefson (family) and Tom Trowhill (commercial).

The remaining new managing associates are: Rhona Derbyshire (employment), Joanna Ford (commercial disputes), James Lee (construction) and Lyn Stronghill (financial controller).

LOCAL NEWS

FLORENCE

In all its glory nigel bottomley shares his photo collection of florence and reveals the lifestyle of the locals in the stunning capital of Tuscany....

Out of interest where did you come across mmm Magazine?

I belong to THE GYM in Ashford and the other week I saw a stack of mmm copies just inside the entrance and picked one up when I left the Gym. What other photo shoots (towns like Florence) have you taken for your portfolio?

I have taken lots of Photos everywhere I’ve been which includes: Cambodia, Thailand, Italy and Barcelona,

YOU

Do have a hobby you want to share with our readers?

Or do you want to see your photographs on our pages?

Then shaRE your stORY with us write or email to editorial@mmm-media.com

HOBBIES AND INTERESTS

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Any tips for beginners wanting to start out in photography?

My tips for beginners would be to buy a reasonable camera but not necessarily the most expensive, as it’s not what you have but more importantly what you do with it. After a while you do begin to take photos of strange things that you would not have thought of before. In Morocco I found myself taking photos of brightly colour doors, as previously obscure things seem to beckon the attention of your lens. It’s how you look at things as you start taking photographs. It changes with time. Even Bridge cameras are a good buy today, as they have become so versatile with their big zoom lens, but almost any camera will do what you want if you think about where to point it. Micro four third cameras are now popular as they are small DSLRs and you can experiment with settings to see how it affects the images. Be creative and let your imagination run wild when you have your camera at hand. You will be surprised at the results!

HOBBIES AND INTERESTS

© Rachel Luckhurst Photography

KENT FERRARI

SOCIAL EVENTS

summER BALL

© Rachel Luckhurst Photography

The Ferrari Owners Club of Great Britain celebrated its 25th year with Peter Critchell at the helm. The occasion was marked in spectacular fashion with a prestigious Charity Summer Ball.

It was attended by over 200 people, who successfully raised significant funds for “Abigail’s Footsteps”. The Ball was epitomised by its glitz and glamour, with a fabulous display of Ferrari’s showcasing the event.

SOCIAL EVENTS

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KenT he Kent County Show 2015 will boast more than 150 different activities, workshops, displays and competitions on each of the three show days.

Lucy Hegarty, show manager, said: “The Show itinerary has now been finalised and visitors will have a huge number of programmed items to choose from. Not to be missed on Friday is RAF Aerobatic Display Team, The Red Arrows. We are absolutely delighted to have this world-famous spectacle. The Squadron will be flying over the Kent Showground at 2pm”.

The equine area has a full schedule of competitions starting at 7.30am and running through until early evening. The Kent Showground has three dedicated Equine Rings, where the large number of horse and pony competitors will compete to win rosettes, trophies or to qualify for the national Horse of the Year Show. New to the area is the Heavy Horse Village where the Shire, Working and Metropolitan Police horses with be on view and stabled. Not to be missed in the Equine Area is the Blacksmiths Forge with shoeing displays and competitions.

The Astor Ring is the main display arena and will host exciting displays, show jumping and the Grand Parade of Livestock. The ring programme starts on Friday at 8.30am with the popular Working Hunter classes. This is followed by the Parade of Coakham Bloodhounds and then the first of the show jumping competitions. On all three Show days the Biggin Hill Heritage Spitfire will be flying over the Showground, as well as the Metropolitan Police Mounted Branch Activity Ride and The Grand Parade of Livestock

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WHAT TO DO IN KENT

CounTy Show

taking centre stage in the Astor Ring. On Saturday and Sunday the Stow Caledonian Pipe Band will be performing as well as playing for the closing ceremony on Sunday evening.

The new Members Area will sit between the Main Astor Ring and the Countryside Ring giving Kent County Agricultural Society Members prime access and perfect viewing platforms to each ring. Kevin Attwood, Chairman, said: “The new Maidstone Exhibition Hall is a wonderful addition to the Kent Showground and provides first-class facilities for our Members. This extensive area has exclusive catering, restroom facilities and space for our Members to fully enjoy their experience at the Kent County Show.”

The Countryside Area is popular with visitors who take the opportunity to see traditional displays such as falconry, working dogs, terrier racing, dog and duck display and a special display by HM Prison Services. Returning for a second year is the Husqvarna UK Pole Climbing Championships. This amazing display saw big crowds watching both the heats and finals each day in 2014. The area also boasts the entertaining and highly amusing Sheep Show which has delighted visitors to the Kent County Show for a number of years.

The Kent County Show also has its wonderful woodland area, which houses a full range of displays and activities. Hosted within Murrain Wood, there will be wood carving demonstrations, working horses, a climbing wall, rural crafts and a unique opportunity for visitors to learn woodland survival skills. Next to the Woodland Area is the Kent Beekeepers Association. The new Horticultural

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Marquee hosts Gardening Questiontime Roadshow, flower workshops and expert demonstrations.

The ever popular Heritage Ring has a full agenda with different vehicles being displayed in the ring throughout the day. Once a day, these magnificent vintage vehicles make the journey through the Show to parade in the Astor Ring, giving visitors a nostalgic reminder of days gone by.

Kent Young Farmers have a packed schedule of competitions where young people, ranging from 10 to 26 years old, show their livestock with many coming from schools around the county. This area also includes the wonderful Fur and Feather Marquee and Kent Poultry Club marquee where visitors can walk through the area and see chickens, ducks and rabbits. Local chefs will be sharing tips about local produce and seasonality. In addition the whole Agricultural Area will be hosting shearing displays and Bob Hoggs Lamb National.

Back by popular demand is Titan the Robot! new events this year will include free donkey rides, the Mole Show and Circus Whizz who will be running a number of workshops.

FUN! for ALL the FAMILY 10th, 11th, 12th

July

WHAT TO DO IN KENT

Biddenden Tractorfest and Country Fair 2015

Do come and JOIN

ollowing a very successful year in 2014 Biddenden Tractorfest is back and for its third year, AuGuST sited at Beech Lane Field, 2015 Sissinghurst Road, Biddenden, courtesy of Mr Michael Palmer who is allowing us to use his fields yet again. Building on our success in previous years, this delightful locally organised event showcases rural activities, organisations and businesses based in and around the Biddenden area.

Many popular activities from last year will make a welcome return but changes will also be made to ensure a fresh and interesting weekend for all. Ditto Dogs will be performing again with their spectacular show of dog agility and obedience.

The Hawking Centre are giving their highly skilled demonstration of handling birds of prey, hopefully to include the children joining in the fun to provide obstacles for the birds to fly over.

The ever agile and traditional Morris dancers will perform again with local sides The Headcorn Morrismen and The Woodchurch Morrismen also performing.

New this year we have Riley’s Miniature Railway providing short rides pulled by a miniature engine, terrier racing – a sight to behold – blink and you’ll miss them! Scotty’s Circus workshop will also be there.

The Dog and Duck man will be back showing the amazing skill and training of his sheepdogs and there will be a demonstration of sheep shearing, we are sure the victims will be more than happy to comply this late in the season.

THE TRACTORFEST and COUNTRY FAIR

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Among the many and varied stalls we are pleased to welcome back is that of the whacky and unique Lord Rust and Lady Norfolk, with their unusual collection of reclaimed and recycled items of furniture and bric-a-brac, unique enough to grace any Biddenden household! Numerous other craft and plant stalls mix with demonstrations of traditional crafts such as trug making, wool spinning and weaving, basketry and wood turning. Get your garden sculpture made by “Tribalanimal” Steve, using his skills with the chainsaw.

Returning for his third year is the ever popular “Pete the Prospector” a real character who presents an authentic prospector’s encampment, and will explain all the tricks of the trade on how to make your fortune at gold prospecting!

The traditional music played by the Seymour’s fairground organ will accompany you while investigating the aisles of farm implements and stationary engines, many lovingly restored by their owners from what most of us would probably regard as a heap of scrap. No Tractorfest would be the worth its name without, of course, tractors, and these we have in abundance. Over 60 tractors are expected, some local and some from the Continent and all shapes and sizes. There will be a parade in the tractor arena at times to be announced. This will include a wide variety of classic cars, ride-on implements and perhaps even some pedestrian cultivators if they can keep up with the others!

Helicopter rides, fun fair, face painting, pony rides, ferrets, balloon twisting, cultivation, archery, insect investigation and a whole lot more, all go towards an awe inspiring line up and will make an unforgettable weekend.

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Tel - 01634 720411

- Looks great all season - No more muddy feet or paws - No Watering or feeding - High UV resistance - No more mowing - Children friendly - Pet friendly

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Visit our showroom, or call to book a free home consultation, and we’ll show you how easy it is to transform your kitchen with our granite, quartz or recycled glass worktops.

Call now 01622 297371 At Granite Transformations we offer a complete package for updating your work surfaces, doors and appliances. Fitting a new worktop is fast and effective with each top custom made to your exact requirements.

There is no need to remove old worktops, we simply fit directly over your existing surfaces, guaranteeing complete peace of mind from start to finish. To complete the look, we also supply and install made-to-measure kitchen cabinet doors and drawer fronts, in a wide choice of colours, finishes and styles.

Maidstone Showroom: Newnham Court Shopping Village, Bearsted Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 5LH Open 10.30am – 4.30pm Mon to Fri, 10am – 5pm Sat & Sun

www.granitetransformations.co.uk/maidstone

what’s on & when Summer School Holidays, The Hop Farm, Tonbridge, 25th July rom 25th July until 2nd September, The Hop Farm Family Park will be providing entertainment and fun for the children, from our fantastic indoor entertainment shows in the Big Red Barn to facepainting and bouncing on our popular Giant Jumping Pillows.

Come and enjoy our attractions including the popular outdoor play areas, Hopper’s Animal World, the extraordinary Magic Castle, bumper boats, 4D cinema bouncy castles, bungee and the popular driving school for budding Lewis Hamiltons!

A number of these attractions are undercover, so whatever the Summer weather delivers, children

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and families will enjoy all the fun at the farm without getting wet!

They are open until the winter every day with FREE ENTRY! Come and join in the fun!

For more information please call 01622 872068 or visit www.thehopfarm.co.uk

Summer holiday fun, Kent Life Heritage Farm Park, 25th July - 2nd September here’s plenty of family fun at Kent Life Heritage Farm Park this summer, with a fun-packed programme of daily activities, events and games arranged during the school holidays from 25th July until 2nd September.

Children can race against their friends and family in three-legged, wheelbarrow, and egg and spoon contests. Have a go at hay bale tipping on the farmthemed obstacle course and test your strength in the tug-of-war or throwing the furthest in the wellie toss.

Or go water zorbing, paint a pot, climb aboard our junior electric quad bikes, enjoy a donkey ride or watch the daily animal feeding sessions.

There will be competitions, trails and tours and the opportunity to get up close with furry friends in Cuddle Corner. Kent Life has got tractors to ride on, indoor and outdoor play areas to go wild in and fascinating historic buildings to explore, ensuring that there’s always something to do whatever the weather.

Standard admission prices are adults £9.50; children £7.50; concessions £8.50; under-3s and Kent Life members go free. Book online in advance and save 15%. Additional charges apply for certain activities. Kent Life is open daily from 10am to 6pm (last admission 5pm).

For more information please call 01622 763936 or visit www.kentlife.org.uk

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Pots and Pieces, Turner Contemporary, Margate, 2nd August reate your own sculpture using reclaimed pieces of pottery in the style of Grayson Perry. £3.50 per child/ *free for adults, under 3s and families living in CT9 postcode.

- Special children’s menu in our café - Full baby changing facilities - Lift and store room for pushchairs - Car parks in Margate town centre For more information please call 01843 233 000 or visit www.turnercontemporary.org

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WHAT’S ON AND WHEN

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Whitstable Oyster Festival, Whitstable, 23rd July - 2nd August hitstable Oyster Festival is hugely excited to announce that the festival will return in 2015, running from Saturday 25th until Friday 31st of July.

The festival is a blend of historic and cultural tradition, expertly curated with huge range of food, drink and entertainment.

This year promises some really special treats with the announcement of its brand new festival stage, named “ The Shuck”, a festival venue running for the duration of the event, purpose built at the end of the harbour wall and overlooking the beautiful Whitstable Bay. This stunning venue will include a bar and restaurant, serving amazing local produce and play host to live performances from the world of comedy and music. Headliners include: Johnny Borrell Zazou, The Cuban Brothers, Craig Charles Funk and

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Trawler Race and Fun day, Folkestone Festival, 1st – 2nd August olkestone Festivals along with Folkestone Trawlers and the National Coastwatch have joined together again this year to host the 2nd return of the towns historic “Trawler Race & Fun days” on Saturday & Sunday 1st & 2nd August. The actual “Trawler “race will be on the Saturday (11.30 according to tides) we have put on events to cover both days so the community can have a fun weekend.

For more information please call 07769684681 or visit www.folkestonefestival.org

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Jurassic World (12A), Woodville Hall, 22nd July wenty-two years after the events of Jurassic Park, Isla Nublar now features a fully functioning dinosaur theme park, Jurassic World, as originally envisioned

by John Hammond. After 10 years of operation and visitor rates declining, in order to fulfill a corporate mandate, a new attraction is created to re-spark visitor’s interest, which backfires horribly.

Tuesday 14th July 11am, Wednesday 15th July 4.30pm (3D) and 7.30pm, Friday 17th July 4.30pm and 7.30pm (3D), Tuesday 21st July 4.30pm and 7.30pm, Wednesday 22nd July 11am (3D). Running time: 2 hours 44 minutes. For more information please call 08442 439 480 or visit www.woodville.co.uk

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WHAT’S ON AND WHEN

Soul Club and The Comedy Impro AllStars feat. Also: Marcus Brigstocke, Stephen Frost, Andy Smart, Dave Johns and Johnny Candon, The Hamish Stuart Band and Tim Edey.

Over the course of the week long celebration, expect to see performers from across the country and from our doorstep.

For more information please call 01227 862102 or visit www.whitstableoysterfestival.co.uk

Margate’s Annual Carnival, 1st – 3rd August argate’s annual carnival: marching bands, floats, carnival courts and much more!

This year the carnival coincides with the Margate Soul Weekend happening over the 1st to 3rd of August (See separate listing for more details) .

Starting from Westbrook seafront at 3pm For more information please call 07791 426025 or visit www.facebook.com/margatecarnival

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Minions (U), Woodville Hall, 30th July he story of Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment’s Minions begins at the dawn of time. Starting as single-celled yellow organisms, Minions evolve through the ages, perpetually serving the most despicable of masters. The Minions fail to find someone to serve and fall into a deep depression. But one Minion named Kevin has a plan, and he alongside teenage rebel Stuart and lovable little Bob ventures out into the world to find a new evil boss for his brethren to follow.

Friday 24th July 11am and 3pm (3D), Saturday 25th 10am (3D) and 12.30pm, Monday 27th July 11am and 3pm, Tuesday 28th July 11am and 3pm (3D), Thursday 30th July 3pm.

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War and Peace Revival, Folkestone Racecourse, 22nd – 25th July he War and Peace Revival is the world’s largest and best military vehicle event. Relive the atmosphere of World War II with a week long programme of action-packed battle re-enactments, living history, arena events, classic civilian and military vehicle displays, military models, vintage fashions, a funfair and the songs, sounds and smells of wartime Britain.

The event is a great day out for all the family!

Explore the Vintage Village with civilian displays from the 1930s to the 1960s including Home Front, Land Army (with real cows!) classic cars, vintage fashion features and makeovers and much more - something for everyone whether you’re into the military side or just vintage living.

Live music day and night gives a real festival feel. Camping available with exclusive evening entertainment so you won’t miss out on a moment!

The event is one of the county’s biggest events and will be held at Folkestone Racecourse just minutes from J11 of the M20 or by train, the Westenhanger train station is just a couple of minutes walk from the Racecourse.

For more information please call 01304 813945 or visit www.thewarandpeacerevival.co.uk

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Vintage Country Fair, Sandwich Showground 18th - 19th July Vintage Country Fair with the Essex Dog Display Team in the main arena, the Sky Birds of Prey Demonstration, Farm on the Mooove, Duck herding, market stalls, great local live music over lunch time, funfair, lots of children’s activities, trade stands, food and drink.

For further information please call 01843 230779 or visit www.sandwichshowground.uk

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Dirty Dancing, The Marlowe Theatre, 4th – 22nd August irty Dancing – The Classic Story On Stage is an unprecedented live experience, exploding with heartpounding music, passionate romance and sensationally sexy dancing.

Seen by millions across the globe, this worldwide smash-hit tells the classic story of Baby and Johnny, two fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds, who come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their lives.

Featuring hit songs including Hungry Eyes, Hey! Baby, Do You Love Me? and the heart-stopping(I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life, don’t miss your chance to see the fastest selling show in West End history.

You’ll have the time of your life!

For more information please call 01227 787787 or visit www.marlowetheatre.com

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WHAT’S ON AND WHEN

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Biddenden Tractorfest & Country Fair, Biddenden 22nd - 23rd August iddenden Tractorfest & Country Fair is back for the third year.

Come and see a collection of tractors old and new, stationary engines, and view farming implements and machines from bygone years and watch demonstrations of ploughing. Included for the first time this year will be, the Hurst Green shires, a sheep shearing demonstration and terrier racing. There will also be “Rileys Miniature Railway”, pony rides, “Magic Martin”, a circus workshop and “The Wiggly Worm Show”, for the younger visitors.

The Arena displays will once again be headed by, the dog obedience and agility display and will include morris dancing, also a presentation of birds of prey, as well as a show of, dog herding ducks.

There will be demonstrations of wool spinning, wood turning, basketry, green wood and trug making, or try your hand at archery or experience a helicopter flight.

There will also be a large collection of rural craft, food and catering stalls.

Profits from this event will be used to support local organisations and local charities. The organising committee (BEST) would like to take this opportunity to thank, Michael Palmer for the use of the site, and Ashford Borough Council and Biddenden Parish Council for their support.

For more information please call 07934 270500 or visit www.tractorfest.co.uk

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Maidstone Arts Festival, Maidstone, 11th July aidstone is set to be blitzed by a summer of yarn bombing!

As their contribution to this year’s Maidstone Arts Festival, dozens of busy knitters and crocheters are clicking away to create a veritable ‘purl’ of attractions to grace the town centre.

The Arts Festival – a magical celebration of music, culture and creativity – takes place from noon to 5pm in Jubilee Square on Saturday 11th July. This originally took place on Saturday 27th June.

Before the on July 4th, shoppers and visitors will be able to enjoy the colourful spectacle of the Maidstone Parade – ‘Around the World.’

On July 11th, there’s the chance to see the fabulous up and coming band, all geared up for a tour of the Czech republic, Coco & The Butterfields, along with the festi-funk jazz sextet The Fabulous Red Diesel.

For more information please call on 07749 329860 or visit www.maidstonetownteam.co.uk

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Jetstream Tours, Gravesend, 27th - 31st July

Open air children’s theatre, Leeds Castle 7th August

ravesend Visitor Information Centre are now booking for JetStream Tours.

Enjoy a 20 minute exhilarating jet powered experience along the River Thames at Gravesend. You are guaranteed to have an andrenaline filled ride onboard Kents only Jetboat!

Minimum Height 1.3 metres. Anyone under the age of 18, must be accompanied by an adult. From noon till 7pm.

For more information please call 01474 337600 or visit www.gogravesham.co.uk

ome and have a joyful, fun-filled family picnic, while you watch this hilarious musical show aimed at children aged 3 to 12. Boys and girls are invited to dress in their best Sherwood fashion on the day.

For further information please call 01622 765400 or visit www.leeds-castle.com/home

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WHAT’S ON AND WHEN

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WHAT’S ON AND WHEN

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SHARING HER WORDS OF WISDOM

Ali Janes

Clairvoyant Ali is an International Clairvoyant and Psychic Teacher. She works from her shop called The Guiding Angels in Herne Bay, Kent where she gives face to face readings for celebrities and locals. Ali has over 20 years’ experience and will teach anyone who wishes to develop their own skills.

Tarot reading for July birthdays:

Star Signs that fall under July are: Cancer (22nd June – 23rd July) and Leo (23rd July – 23rd August) A typical Cancerian character is like the crab they have a hard outer shell that protects the fact that they are really a very vulnerable or sensitive character. They tend to walk sideways around issues before dealing with anything and avoid confrontation whenever they feel they can get away with it.

A typical Leo character likes attention and craves the limelight, even if they are feeling alone.

They like to enter a room and be noticed. They get bored easily, however they can be so much fun but you wish they would grow up and entertain themselves.

LOVE Cancer - Emotionally isolating yourself at the moment won’t really benefit you in the long term as there are new adventures waiting for you if you can only take a leap of faith. I see attraction between two people who clearly care for one another and this can grow with some faith on both sides.

Leo - There will be choices around your love life or emotional life that will need your attention as they don’t seem to be going away by you just ignoring the situation. You would like a more stable relationship that you can build on, could this new energy be the key to your future happiness, or do you still need to work harder on the existing one?

Finances / Work Cancer - There will be a few battles to overcome regarding work / finances due to you not being able to get the balance right between your personal life and your financial life.

There is someone very close to you who wants everything done their way and although you are trying very hard to fulfil their wishes they then change the goal posts and want something else.

How do you win you wonder?

Leo – Whilst you are working hard and bringing in the security there seems to be an issue with the spending part of your life. I can see a character that isn’t taking finances very seriously. You will need to rethink old spending habits and start putting limits and boundaries up so that there can be a more relaxed way of living, rather than living on your nerves.

TAROT READINGS

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elebrities who also share July birthdays:

Benedict Cumberbatch 19th July

Paloma Faith 21st July

Daniel Radcliffe 23rd July

JulyHoroscopes Capricorn 22nd Dec – 20th Jan Love/Family: True love and happiness is all that you wish for in life, but there is always something that you have to give up first and this is making you feel like you want to be selfish and have your cake and eat it. Your expectations are high and you need to decide whether someone close to you is giving it as much effort as you are.

Work/Finances: There will be talk regarding being self-employed or becoming bossier linked to work / finances. I can see that some of the new changes that are happening still need to be kept quiet to some degree as they won’t go down well with some people.

Change is good if organised correctly and the foundations are set first, which is what you are doing.

Aries 21st March – 20th April Love/Family: Have you locked your sensitivity in a cage so that you can ensure you are not going to get hurt? Is it time that you stepped outside of your comfort zone and said what the hell? What’s the worst that can happen? If it does, can I handle that? If the answer is “I can cope” then maybe change a scary situation to one of adventure and experience life.

Work/Finances: You are holding back some of your natural leadership abilities at this time and this may be a wise thing although if you are doing this in the long-term, then maybe your leadership side will come out unexpectedly and bite you on the bottom.

You can’t change your true personality and you can’t change the role you have been given to play in this lifetime.

Cancer 22nd June – 23rd July Love/Family: You sometimes feel like there is emptiness inside you. Finding the thing that is missing in your life is not as easy as it seems. I can see that it would help to meet people who care about you halfway and listen to what they have to say.

Work/Finances: One project / job will come to a natural conclusion around this time and you will find yourself having to set boundaries or restrictions from others, who will try to over step the mark with you. It will all settle down around the end of July / the beginning of August 2015).

Libra 24th Sept – 23rd Oct Love/Family: You can’t seem to make up your mind at the moment and you know that you need to make a decision over an emotional issue. I can see you needing more time to dissect things before you put plans in motion in love / emotions.

Work/Finances: If you have been wondering how your plan is going now, you will be pleasantly surprised to know that all is well and it couldn’t be going any better. You felt you were right in standing your ground over something linked to work / finances and it’s only fair that your decisions were taken seriously which eventually they were. If only they knew how hard it is for you to actually stand up for yourself like you have.

Aquarius 21st Jan – 19th Feb Love/Family: You are now at a stage in your life where you are back on your feet emotionally and you are very thankful for the people that have helped you along the way. Life is getting better and better and you are now able to be strong for other people. The time has come to let down some of those barriers that protected you whilst you were going through so much emotional turmoil.

Work/Finances: There is a great deal of hard work around you at this time and you are looking around to steal back some time for yourself. I can see that you need to be alone, just chilling with your feet up and relaxed.

Taurus 21st April – 21st May Love/Family: After taking on far more than you should, you will find yourself achieving the rewards and recognition that you have been craving. I see success around you and a wonderful sense of calmness. You have not just been carrying your own stress but the stress of the people you love and there will be a thank you at the end of it all.

Work/Finances: You are going to be very outspoken regarding feeling trapped and unable to move forward in work / finances.

I see you breaking free of chains and restrictions now and a feeling of being free after a real big struggle. You have had to understand your own restrictions that you had also placed on your own shoulders and why you felt you had to do that.

Leo 24th July – 23rd Aug Love/Family: Travel plans and organising transport is around you at this time. I feel that you are shedding your work / responsibilities for a little while and you are off to have some fun! Trust that things will be sent your way to make life easy whilst you are away or having this break. Ask the Angels and they will see to it that all is well.

Work/Finances: Dealing with issues first hand and straight away, will save you time and make you more organised in life. You have been avoiding things a little too much which hasn’t helped you and you are feeling the pressure now. I see issues around a car that needs work done to it or something very small but essential, so make sure you listen to your inner voice that will tell you what needs doing.

Scorpio 24th Oct – 22nd Nov Love/Family: You have in the past had to cope with other people walking over your feelings and they don’t realise how this treatment can affect you long term. You have been manipulated and controlled in the past and this has made you feel insecure at times and although you have tried very hard to toughen up emotionally.

Work/Finances: You have celebrated achievements of your work / financial life and you have lots to be thankful for. You have looked after the pennies and the pounds have looked after themselves so to speak.

I can see that things have been hard in this area of your life, but you have definitely turned a corner

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Pisces 20th Feb – 20th Mar Love/Family: Instead of hiding behind others to get the communication going, you may need to deal with things directly. I can see a misunderstanding between two friends or family members and because you care about both of their needs and emotions, you realise that it should be dealt with in a very sensitive manner.

Work/Finances: You are being very outspoken over matters that you feel very strongly about. There are issues regarding work / finances that only you can sort through and you are going to take charge of it all and make things happen. I can see a feisty female around at this time that is doing what is needed to get finances / work matters back on an even grounding.

Gemini 22nd May – 21st June Love/Family: You have wished for a happy ever after and for life to be fluffy and wonderful with no stresses, strains, worries or upsets. Are you reading the wrong book of life? Well maybe its time to rewrite your own happy ever after and start doing your own affirmations.

Work/Finances: You are feeling a little bored with work or your finances at the moment and you want to make something positive happen that will excite you. I can see that you are getting closer to a goal that you have set yourself so its not all bad. I can feel the energy linking you to a new person entering your life with a new business / money proposition and they have come to you at the right time.

Virgo 24th Aug – 23rd Sept Love/Family: Trust is the key that will turn the lock to your happiness. You are looking at your own reflexion and working out why in the past you have made the choices that you have. You do understand a great deal about what you want but you need to take on board the lessons that have led you to this stage in your life.

Work/Finances: Fresh starts and new beginnings in the material side of your life. I see that you are being looked after now and that life is turning onto a new chapter in your book of life. You have had to make choices recently that will reflect how your life ends up now. Although you we’re reluctant to change how things were you couldn’t help but notice this new plan of action and the rewards that you will be now facing in the future Sagittarius 23rd Nov – 21st Dec Love/Family: You are having to go head to head over a relationship issue that requires you to step up to the mark and have a full on power struggle.

You feel you shouldn’t have to but there aren’t really any other ways and to back down would show weakness or show them that you are guilty in some way.

Work/Finances: You are standing your ground over a matter of principle that you feel very strongly about. You will not back down either, as you know that you are right and you will succeed in proving this. There is a common message in your love.

Treehouse Hotel aT PorT LymPne reserve

Book a short break at

ort Lympne Reserve offers the most unique safari experience in the UK! Whether you are fascinated by rare and endangered animals, enjoy walks and native wildlife, or are just looking for an unforgettable day out, there will be something to see from the moment you arrive.

The Reserve, near Ashford in Kent, is the only visitor attraction in the UK offering a variety of short break accommodations, including luxury glamping at the multi award winning Livingstone Lodge, longer stays at Elephant Lodge and year round relaxation at Livingstone Cottage and the boutique Port Lympne Hotel. Pinewood Camping Pods are ideal for family and group stays, and the latest addition to the Short Breaks portfolio, the Treehouse Hotel, is the height of extravagance offering the ultimate treetop retreat.

Ensconced in the tree canopy, high above the 600 acre reserve, the glass fronted Treehouse suites reflect the stunning natural surroundings, whilst the interiors offer space, comfort and serenity - away from the stresses of the outside world.

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Port Lympne Reserve

After a day exploring and receive a the reserve of or enjoying VIP safaris bubbly when you quote: and animal encounters, guests can relax and unwind on their private balcony spanning their suite, whilst taking in the glorious sunsets and listening to the sounds of the reserve below.

Perfectly designed for four people, the self catering suites offer a natural retreat combined with contemporary furnishings and appliances including a 50� smart TV and WiFi. For guests who would rather eat out, the four star Port Lympne Hotel is a short buggy ride away. Alternatively, there are a variety of cafÊs and restaurants on site with something to suit all appetites.

For more information and to book call 01303 234112 or visit www.aspinallfoundation.org/shortbreaks

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