MMM Magazine August '15

Issue 43, August 2015 Complimentary

Kent’s Lifestyle Magazine

TINA

HOBLEY From on the WARD to top of the BILL

Weddings in Kent s

OTHER feature

Battle of Britain - 75 Years on

Bear Grylls: Taking advent

ure to a new level

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WIN! A SIGNED

England Rugby World Cup Shirt

MOTORS HOBBIES HISTORY AND MUCH, MUCH MORE

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All items available from Dune

All items available from House of Fraser

Welcome emember how wonderful August was when you were a child? The whole month stretched ahead full of smiles and potential, with no school threatening to spoil the fun.

Well, even as an adult, it’s hard to shift that feel good factor isn’t it? Especially if the weather cooperates and provides us with some warm, sunny weeks.

In our last issue we took a very special look at all of the incredible events going on in July – and the good news is there’s plenty more happening during August, as you will discover inside. We’ve got a special section devoted to family days out to inspire you – regardless of your age!

Certainly the Kent County Show at Detling was another great occasion last month – full of people, sunshine and things to do. If you haven’t been before, I would strongly recommend you go. It’s a fantastic event and all the feedback so far has been extremely positive. I had a fabulous time.

I am due shortly to attend another great event – Salon Prive, a motor show with a difference. Staged in the majestic surroundings of Blenheim Palace in Oxford, it combines classic cars with the latest generation of supercars, complete with a garden party atmosphere. Classic cars and Champagne…who can resist?

Talking of cars, I was invited to the relaunch of Buckmore Park karting circuit last month – and was delighted to meet John Surtees, the legendary racer who now owns the track. I also bumped into Paul Hollywood – the very tasty judge from The Great British Bake Off. If fast cars aren’t quite your thing, then we’ve got plenty to entertain you inside this month’s mmm. From clay pigeon shooting to the all action Bear Grylls, and the Battle of Britain to perfect wedding ideas, there’s something to enjoy.

So I hope you all have a great August and have plenty of special time to relive those glorious school holiday moments.

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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

Publisher Rasa Dregva Editorial Tom White Robin J Brooks Tricia Lester Design Matthew Jones Sales Sue Houghton Accounts Kerry Head

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TINA HOBLEY From Holby City to Canterbury City

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wEddINGs Take inspiration for your special day

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TrAVEL discover exciting destinations combining touring with Baldwins Travel Group

BEAuTY TrEATmENTs Get up and glow this August

Further Contribution Tracy Jones Sarah Vince Howard Perry

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FOOd Glorious food recipes for summer

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BEAr GrYLLs Intrepid adventurer

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GArdENING Expose your gardens X factor

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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mOTOrs The all new mazda mX-5.

A brand icon

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BATTLE OF BrITAIN robin J Brooks recalls ‘The Hardest day’ of the Battle of Britain

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BuCkmOrE pArk John Surtees officially unveils new look of Buckmore park

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HOBBIEs Howard perry’s close encounters of the polar Bear kind!

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EVENTs Highlighting family fun and celebrations throughout kent

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HOrOsCOpEs discover what your future holds for you with Ali Janes

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From on the ward to top of the bill Glamorous Tina Hobley

on life outside Holby City or the packed audiences in Dartford and Canterbury who this year were lucky enough to see the touring production of best-selling author Peter James’ crime thriller Dead Simple, they may be a little surprised to hear that its star was once cripplingly shy.

It is, after all, difficult to picture the stunning Tina Hobley as one who has not spent a lifetime bristling with confidence and self-belief.

She is one of the most beautiful and talented actresses in the world of entertainment today.

She spent more than a decade playing feisty nurse Chrissie Williams on BBC soap Holby City, and has been a regular on the likes of Coronation Street and The Bill.

Add to that, she’s a DJ on radio station Smooth

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CELEBRITY FEATURE

and is fresh from a long run of the Dead Simple stage show.

But when she was a child she struggled – suffering a level of shyness which saw her struggle when she was in groups and being, as she puts it “a bit of a worrier”.

She explained: “My mother really tried hard to bring me out of my shell – trying to get me interested in all sorts of activities.

“She enrolled me in Brownies, but I was so shy I wouldn’t leave her side. I think she was running out of ideas.

“But then one day she started taking me to drama lessons in the local church hall and I was taught speech and drama in small groups – it made all the difference and I loved it.

“It was a world where I could pretend to be someone else and that made me, finally, come out of my shell.”

Her drama teacher would teach her for some 15 years, and set her on the road to a hugely successful career. a

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Her confidence boosted and a clear talent developing, she left the school in East Finchley where she grew up and moved to the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art. After spending three years there, she emerged to embark on a career which swiftly saw her secure roles in popular TV shows including longrunning soap opera Coronation Street as Samantha Failsworth, BBC drama Harbour Lights with former EastEnder Nick Berry as Melanie Rush, and ITV’s The Bill as Sue Booker.

But it was in 2001 when she joined BBC hospital drama Holby City that she would be elevated to genuine stardom.

Her character was always in the juiciest of

CELEBRITY FEATURE

storylines and she quickly became a firm favourite with viewers, with Chrissie Williams being a strong, no-nonsense female character that gave as good as she got.

She explains: “I spent 12 brilliant years on Holby, and I got to meet some amazing guest artists as well as the regular cast whom I grew to love dearly.

“Some of them still remain my best friends. Sharon Maughan played my on-screen mother, and she’s actually now godmother to one of my children. After being there for a long period of time, Holby became like family to me.

“Luckily, they didn’t kill me off, so that’s good.

You spend your time putting so much into the role, and sometimes they kill you off just for audience

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reaction. I find that terribly heartbreaking, so I was delighted that they didn’t go down that route and that the door is still open.

“However, I’m now enjoying freedom and the time to do other things. So I have no plans to return right now – but who knows?”

She finally bowed out at the end of 2013 and hasn’t looked back yet. And at just 44, you feel there’s plenty more to come too.

Married to PR executive Oliver Wheeler she is the mother of three children – Isabella (from a previous relationship), Olivia and Orson – they have homes in London and the Cotswolds “We live in London during the week,” she explains, “but we’re very lucky to have a beautiful house in

the country, too, and that’s where we spend our every weekend.”

For most of this year, however, it’s been a life treading the boards again with Dead Simple.

The play, based on the multi-million selling book tells the tale of a stag night party prank which goes terribly wrong and the intrigue that surrounds it.

She explains: “It’s a great part – I play the lead in a thriller where I get to be very bad, with lots of good looking men.

“It’s an amazing part. I hadn’t previously thought about doing a tour like this, because of the restrictions of having children at home. I’m a real homebody, I absolutely love spending time at home, but at the same time, this part was just too good to miss. a

CELEBRITY FEATURE

“I have very little theatre experience so I’m really enjoying the buzz of this new play, a buzz you don’t get doing television.”

So with such a busy schedule, just how does she keep herself in such great condition?

“Running around after my three children keeps me fit.

“For me, it’s all about incorporating exercise into your lifestyle. I don’t like the gym really, but I love yoga because it combines everything - it’s ‘me’ time, meditation, therapy and relaxation, as well as keeping me toned and strong.

“And I like to walk everywhere too - I’ll put my heels in a bag then walk to meetings in town, and I’m constantly trying to get the kids to walk. I’ve found a yoga class that my little boy and I can do together. I try to involve them in my general wellbeing programme. That’s important to me.”

Her talents appeared to extend to food as well when she appeared in Celebrity Masterchef in 2014.

Cooking up success, it seems, is second nature. mmm CELEBRITY FEATURE

august set your calendar for mmm showcases exciting events

featured throughout Kent, for your diary this month Newly Refurbished Blean Tavern, Canterbury rand opening of newly Refurbished Blean Tavern at 4 Blean Hill, Canterbury. Susan Lovett who has already built up a great reputation through her 1st acquisition of the Oyster Pearl in Seasalter, is now branching out with her second restaurant Blean Tavern.

Grand opening will be supported with a classic car show, a BBQ starting at 12pm and live music including Roy Goulding and Happy Daze. For more information please call 01227 504887 or visit www.bleantavern.com

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The Red Arrows Herne Bay

15th August

n Saturday 15th August, as part of the Herne Bay Amy Johnson Memorial Airshow, it can be announced that the world famous RAF Red Arrows team will be performing. The Eurofighter Typhoon will also be in attendance for another stunning display, and the Battle Of Britain Memorial team, including the Lancaster Bomber, Spitfire, and Hurricane will be soaring across the skies too in what will be the biggest event in the town’s history. Do not miss this historic day! The message from the outset will be that this is a BIG event for a small town, so leave the car at home at all costs. Easy and regular transport links by train and bus can drop you on the doorstep of the event if you’re not local, and you won’t want to miss what promises to be an amazing day.

For more information please visit the website www.baypromoteam.co.uk

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DIARY DATES

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August

The Base Tones Eastwell Manor, Ashford his fresh new three man vocal harmony group will bring to life some of your favourite hits from The Jersey Boys, The Overtones, The Baseballs, The Temptations to name a few. Celebrate a great night that will bring back fond memories and create new ones.

Performance only (7pm) £19.50 per person/children under 12 - £9.75.

Pre-performance BBQ in the Pavilion for 5pm followed by the performance at 7pm from £39.50 per person/children under 12 - £19.95.

Overnight accommodation including full English breakfast and full use of the spa facilities is available from £85.00 per person.

For more information please call 01233 213020 or visit www.eastwellmanor.co.uk

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16th August

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Jungle Book, Hever Castle n the magical Indian jungle a new arrival changes the animal kingdom forever. Your favourite animal characters are brought to life to create an enchanting and fun-filled childrens musical show for children of all ages.

Join Mowgli on his wonderful adventures with the loveable and wise Baloo the bear, the powerful panther Bagheera, and not to

mention mischievous monkeys and the terriflying tiger Shere Khan! Rudyard Kipling’s best known and most loved story will be a guaranteed summer hit for all the family at some of the most beautiful gardens of the UK and Ireland. For this performance children are invited to dress up in their favourite animal costume and join in the jungle parade in the interval.

For more information please call 01732 866 114 or visit www.seetickets.com/event/the-jungle-book/thefestival-theatre

Vintage Country Fair Sandwich Showground

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

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19th August

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.

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Pride & Prejudice Walmer Castle

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ake a step back in time with Chapterhouse Theatre Company to meet Elizabeth Bennet, Jane Austen’s most loveable heroine. When Elizabeth meets the rude and abrupt Mr Darcy, she loathes him at first sight. But Is there more to him than meets the eye? Join family and friends for what promises to be the most splendid evening of the summer as you picnic under a beautiful summer sky and lose yourself in the unforgettable love story.

After all, it is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife.

For further information please call 01304 364288 or visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/ walmer-castle-and-gardens

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22nd AND 23rd August

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Firepower through the ages Dover Castle 15th et your family fired-up this TO 16th weekend as Dover Castle plays August

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host to an amazing festival of firepower. Gather round the campfires of the Napoleonic Redcoats, be amazed by the bravado of the Roman Soldiers and marvel at the might of the Medieval sappers.

From Roman torsion machines to trebuchets and the first gun using black powder, witness the ingenious methods used by warring armies throughout the centuries to impose their might on the enemy. Children can get involved with have a go archery and mini-battles, while all the family will enjoy the black humour of our newly commissioned Cold War play.

For more information please call 01304 209894 or visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/ dover-castle

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Biddenden Tractorfest & Country Fair, Biddenden iddenden Tractorfest and Country Fair, to be held on 22nd and 23rd August, will be even bigger and better this year.

Staged at Beech Lane Field, Sissinghurst Road, Biddenden, it will showcase rural activities, and organisations and businesses based in and around Biddenden. Tractors old and new will be displayed and paraded as will classic cars.

Stationary engines will be exhibited along with farming implements and machinery from bygone times.

Other highlights will include the Hurst Green Shires, a sheep shearing demonstration, terrier racing, a miniature railway, AND pony rides, Magic Martin, a circus workshop and the Wiggly Worm Show.

As well as vehicle parades, the arena programmes will feature dog obedience and agility, Morris dancing, birds of prey, and a dog herding ducks.

Elsewhere there will be demonstrations of wool spinning, wood turning, basketry and trug making.

Visitors will be able to try archery and opt for an

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22nd 23rd August

Hythe Venetian Fete Royal Military Canal, Hythe here will be laughter all the way when the Hythe Venetian Fete returns to the Royal Military Canal on Wednesday, August 19th.

Every two years the fete comes to life, and is now billed as ‘an extravaganza of family fun’. The spectacular fete is one of south east England’s most popular outdoor events and attracts more than ten thousand spectators.

The five-hour programme will feature processions of decorated floats, live music and entertainment, children’s funfair and a grand firework display. The flotilla of floating tableaux will include entries designed and built by school and youth groups, sports clubs, dramatic societies, community groups and an army unit.

For further information please call 01303 230688 or visit www.venetian-fete.com

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19th August

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overview of the countryside with a helicopter flight.

The event will also feature a large collection of rural craft, food and catering stalls. Profits from the Biddenden Tractorfest and Country Fair will be used to support local organisations and charities. Biddenden Entertainment and Social Team (BEST), the event organiser, is grateful to Michael Palmer for the use of the site, and to Biddenden Parish Council and Ashford Borough Council for their support.

BEST is working with PRS for Music which licenses the use of copyright music across the UK, giving businesses and organisations the legal permission they need to play music. PRS licences ensure that music publishers, songwriters and composers are fairly rewarded with royalties. For more information please call 07934 270500 or visit www.tractorfest.co.uk

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august aLLuRE Season’s harsh sun stay smart and protected with all the right

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hen it comes to your body, mother nature knows best! Seasonal summer foods like watermelon, leafy greens, and berries have a higher concentration of water to help you stay hydrated in the heat. In addition to drinking your daily in-take of water, it’s healthy and smart to indulge in fresh, water rich foods.

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aily facials not in the cards? A gentle, daily exfoliating routine is your next best bet in the quest for softer, smoother, clearer skin. Use exfoliating scrubs or soft face brushes with gel and cream cleansers.

ummer’s best accessory: a sun kissed glow. But it’s just not great for your skin, given the dangers of sunbathing. Salon spray tans, administered by a technician with an airbrush-type applicator, are an alternative, but weekly near-naked visits cost time and money.

Thankfully you can get it done in the privacy of your own bathroom with salon-worthy results. The latest self-tanners offer spray mist application, so you don’t have to worry about silly streaks or serious dry time.

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FUZZ & FRIZZ HAIR Downside to WARM weather mmm GIVES HELPFUL TIPS ON HAIR PRODUCTS TO BUY

SO CAN LET YOUR HAIR DOWN THIS SUMMER

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John Frieda frizz-ease forever smooth anti-frizz primer 100ml

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Goody® Ceramic ionic hot round brush

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USEFUL HAIR TIPS COMB DRY HAIR WITH WET FINGERS

The problem with frizzy hair is that it’s dry.

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L’Oréal Paris Elnett satin hairspray

Lee Stafford poker straight Dehumidifie

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mmmWeddings

• Terrific traditions • Sweet scents • Beautiful bridal wear • Wonderful rings

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Traditions

Past & Present

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edding traditions are simple, yet can vary from couple to couple. We take a look through some past and present traditions...

Whenever you are lucky enough to say “I do”, wedding etiquette is something you may wish to consider depending on what’s right for you as a couple.

To help you to decide if you want to plan the present and include the past, here’s a list of the most well known traditions and their origins which may provide extra meaning for your special day.

“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence in your shoe.”

Said to date back to Victorian times and originally meant for the bride, these traditions are still among the most adhered to today with couples everywhere using these items as keepsakes, long after rings are exchanged.

Something old, represents the link with the families of the couple and the past to remember where you both came from. Something new, is said to bring good fortune and success in the couple’s life together with the wedding dress being the usual option of choice.

Something borrowed reminds the couple that family and friends will always be there when they are needed.

Something blue is symbolic of purity, loyalty and faithfulness between the couple and is often represented as a blue garter. A silver sixpence in your shoe is the last part of the verse and is less known than its verse counterparts due to its uncomfortable nature to include, but the use of a silver sixpence in your shoe is to symbolise wealth such as good finances and happiness.

Favours Favours are not simply an act of kindness or gratitude to your guests for their attendance on your wedding day. Favours are classed as a tradition in the form of five sugar almonds. The almonds each represent a wish that you want to pass on to your guests in the form of health, fertility, happiness, long-life and wealth.

The Threshold You may have seen in movies brides being carried into the couple’s home but never questioned why this is done. No, it is not a display of strength, but a tradition used to protect the bride against any evil spirits that may lurk in the marital home and to symbolise eternal protection.

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Ruby Loves Roses RUBY LOVES ROSES wedding flowers are all bespoke designed for your SPECIAL DAY to add natural beauty and opulence to even the simplest room. We can help you DREAM UP the perfect scheme, as well as working to your own, if you have already chosen one.

info@rubylovesroses.com x 07702 637295

www.rubylovesroses.com

The Secret Garden can be found hidden away in a romantic cobbled courtyard surrounded by mature trees and beautiful walled Victorian gardens - the perfect venue for your perfect day.

The Secret Garden is captivating, elegant and is one of Kent’s most spectacular settings for weddings.

Occupying a 19th Century Coach House, the building was once home to the estate’s horses and carriages, and once you arrive the reason for our name will become apparent.

We can take care of every aspect of your wedding, from the ceremony to your dream menu. The stunning Coach House can accommodate 60-70 guests for a Wedding Breakfast and a further 60 guests in the evening.

The Coach House has large double doors that open on to the south-facing covered terrace that has views over the walled gardens.

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Special day scents P

erfume... that finishing touch for every bride. But with so many brands out there, which ones are perfect for your special day? Emily Williams investigates for mmm.

Ever since the Estee Lauder advert for their ‘Beautiful’ fragrance was aired a few years ago, it has become more apparent to me within the wedding industry that brides panic at the last minute over their perfume for their wedding day. Some brides choose to opt for their signature scent, whilst others want a scent to wear only on their big day and for the special occasions that follow.

Whatever your decision, make sure that it is a decision you don’t have to make the day of your wedding, with our top wedding fragrances listed below.

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Marc Jacobs Dot

1. Marc Jacobs: We could list one, or we could list them all, but I think it is fair to say that there is something for everyone within a Marc Jacobs collection. Best-sellers such as Daisy now have several variations on offer, as well as the token Honey, Dot and Lola from the same best-selling collection. Developed for the summer, these fragrances can also be carried right through the year for a floral, sweet smell.

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Paco Rabanne Lady Million Eau My Gold!

2. Paco Rabanne: Still topping the best-sellers list some years on, the caramel dream that is Lady Million is an absolute god-send for the autumn or winter bride with benefits including its impressive longevity.

3. Lancome: La Vie Est Belle, the french expression meaning life is beautiful - how could you go wrong? With an amazing 5 star rating, fruits in the opening, florals in the middle and vanilla and chocolate at the base, this is a truly delectable fragrance.

4. Chanel: Chanel is always a timeless option, but their Coco Mademoiselle is a particular favourite amongst the perfume hoarders.

A sweet citrus and rose scent, this fragrance has been described as elegance in a bottle.

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Lancôme La Vie Est Belle Eau de Parfum

5 Michael Kors: Another one of the specialities of the fabulous Michael Kors is the fragrance collection. The particularly bridal Glam Jasmine offers a timeless fragrance packed with jasmine, sandalwood and a touch of green – perfect for a light, fresh scent and part of a much wider collection.

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Michael Kors Glam Jasmine Eau de Parfum

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COCO MADEMOISELLE Eau de Parfum Spray

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Rules of engagement Y

ou’ve found your soul mate, now you just need to find an engagement ring that she will love for the rest of her life. Your guide to a perfect marriage...

Platinum 0.50 carat princess cut diamond solitaire engagement ring £2,250 Fraser Hart

1. This is set to challenge You will hear that you should spend two to three months salary on a ring, but that’s pre-recession talk. Be realistic - start with four to six weeks worth of paychecks, and be prepared to increase a little if it will achieve perfection.

2. Act like a cat burglar Don’t automatically guess at her size just borrow one of her rings and have it sized by a jeweller.

3. ...Then turn her friends into accomplices Ask her friends (the ones who can keep a secret) if she’s dropped any hints for example the type of metal, the cut of the stone, or a designer she likes.

18 carat gold one and a half carat three diamond ring £3,000 Ernest Jones

4. Think of yourself, just this once She might want her wedding band to match her engagement ring—and some couples like their wedding bands to match, too. In other words: Know that if you get her a rose gold band, you might also end up wearing rose gold.

5. Know the rules of the rock You can get a quick education online about how gemologists grade stones, but after that, you need guidelines: for a diamond, avoid any colour grade below H (too yellow) or any cut grade below Very Good (not enough sparkle). We’d choose a better cut and clearer colour over more carats, but if she’s expecting a boulder, your choice is made for you.

6. Go beyond the white diamond These days it’s lovely to put some colour on her ring finger: black diamonds, yellow diamonds, emeralds and sapphires are all fair game as centre or accent stones.

18 carat white and yellow gold 1 carat lemon diamond ring £2,999 Ernest Jones

18 carat white gold 1.05 carat diamond ring £2,999 Fraser Hart

Maple leaf diamonds 18 carat diamond halo engagement ring £3,250 Beaver Brooks

Emerald cut 5 diamond ring 2.60 carat price on application Kaizen Antiques & Jewellery

Palladium 2/3 carat total diamond ring £1,199 H.Samuel

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mmm weddings Designer: Elizabeth Dye

Bridal fashion 2015

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his year bridal fashion is fast becoming a big hit trend. Certain designers have created new ideas for brides in order that their dreams and aspirations are fulfilled on their big day...

Have a quick scroll through Pintrest or Instagram and you will see that a new trend in bridal fashion is becoming very, very big in 2015. Whatever you call it, boho, relaxed or contemporary, brides are taking a more chilled and fashion-influenced approach to their big day attire. With designers creating collections featuring crop top and skirt two-pieces and backless lacey gowns perfectly finished with a floral crown or boho-inspired accessories, brides are no longer tied to the bridal equation of dress plus veil and tiara, personal style is the key and how far brides decide to go with that is up to them.

Leading the way with this trend are Australian designers Grace Loves Lace and Karen Willis Holmes, in a country featuring some of the most beautiful beaches and

coastlines it’s not hard to see why. Grace Loves Lace are the queens of pretty, floaty lace and daring backless gowns for the body beautiful and fearless bride. With their dresses only available online or in Australia it is a risk for UK brides to take when purchasing one of their gowns but from looking at their Instagram account, there is picture after picture of real brides looking amazing in these gowns.

Karen Willis Holmes’s ‘Wild Hearts’ collection features a selection of pieces that can be mixed and matched to make a unique bridal look, with crop tops, skirts, slips and lace overlays, brides can layer up pieces to create a look that suits their personal style on their big day. I love this idea and it’s a great way to create a different look from the ceremony to the evening reception.

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Designer: Grace Loves Lace

Another designer creating boho beautiful gowns is Katya Katya Shehurina. Katya’s gowns are ideal for destination weddings due to their light, flowing materials and their lack of boned structure. The Esta gown below even features a light linen lining perfect for extra hot weddings abroad. Even quintessentially British designer Charlotte Balbier has created her collection “Willa Rose” with a chilled, summer garden wedding in mind. Styled with pretty floral crowns and beachy-waved hair, the Willa Rose collection is ideal for brides wanting the structure of a traditional wedding gown but with a modern garden party vibe, perfect for a summer wedding in Kent.

For Kent brides looking to bring a boho vibe to their wedding day look a new, contemporary bridal boutique is opening in Rochester this October featuring gowns from Karen Willis Holmes, Charlotte Balbier, Katya Katya Shehurina and American designer Elizabeth Dye. The Wild Heart Bridal takes a modern approach to bridal fashion believing that your wedding day should be the ultimate opportunity to express your personal style. With beautiful gowns and accessories not available anywhere else in Kent make your appointment now for a bridal boutique experience with a difference.

Alexandra Smith, Stylist & Blogger at Alexandra Smith Styling www.alexandrasmithstyling.co.uk

Designer: Karen Willis Holmes

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Classic and Contemporary D

bridal shower gift ideas

epending on whether you choose traditional classic or more imaginative contemporary gifts, here’s a quick list of ideas to help you get started.

15 Classic bridal shower gift ideas • Linen napkins and napkin rings • Dessert plates and bakeware • Tea set with teapot • Picture frame • Crystal vase • Champagne glasses • Cashmere blankets • Lipstick • Coffee maker • Pie plate • Dish towels and china • Bedding • Barware • Platters • Lingerie

15 Contemporary bridal shower gift ideas • Certificate for a spa day • Coffee-table book of her favourite holiday spot • Bathing suit for the honeymoon (get her size from the groom) • Monthly wine or flower club membership • Getting-ready robe embroidered with new last name (i.e. Mrs. Harris) • Tent for two • Breakfast-in-bed tray and pyjamas • Relaxation materials: scented candles and magazine subscriptions • Travel gear • Theatre tickets • Museum memberships • Luggage and honeymoon guidebooks • Beach towels and a beach bag • Novelty clock • Gardening set in an attractive bag

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Our Venue, Your Dream!

If you’re looking for the perfect romantic location for your wedding then look no further! Set in the heart of a private rural estate St. Augustine’s Priory is the most idyllic of Kentish Wedding Locations.

St Augustine’s Priory, Priory Road, Bilsington, Nr Ashford TN25 7AU

01233 720992 www.bilsingtonpriory.co.uk

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weddings@bilsingtonprioryestate.co.uk

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Take a Tour as chosen by Baldwins Travel Group

Cox & Kings

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he history of Cox & Kings, stretching back over 250 years, gives us unrivalled experience at organising tours to India and the subcontinent. Our team have all travelled extensively throughout the region.

Our holidays range from luxury tours of Rajasthan to backwater cruises in Kerala, trekking in Nepal, majestic rail journeys across the continent, and beach holidays in Sri Lanka.

All of our holidays offer exceptional quality and great value for money.

To discover the full range of incredible Indian experiences available, please contact your local Baldwins Travel and ask for the latest Cox & Kings brochure today.

Travelsphere

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s specialists in our field, we have a team of experts who carefully research and plan our tours. You’ll find our tours full of world-famous landmarks, iconic sights, remarkable landscapes and historical treasures.

We also pack our holidays full of special moments and unique encounters to ensure a trip of a lifetime and a new adventure every day.

We’ll get you closer to the cultures, customs and cuisines of every destination, and you’ll get to see and do things seldom available to an independent traveller thanks to our expertly-crafted itineraries and insider knowledge – we believe travel is more than just seeing the sights, it’s about hearing, tasting and touching too.

TRAVEL FEATURE

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Fred.Olsen

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t Fred. Olsen we offer a wide range of tours to suit all interests and tastes, from gentle panoramic sightseeing tours to energetic adventure tours! Where possible we purchase entrance tickets in advance, so you do not lose valuable time queuing. We also look to negotiate special opening times when required, so you can visit those important attractions that may be typically closed on certain days.

Although cruise itineraries are planned in advance some unforeseen circumstances can sometimes result in an itinerary change. Rest assured that if this should occur we will refund any pre-booked tours that you miss and endeavour to put a

new programme of activities in place for our revised port of call, ensuring you still enjoy your cruise.

Detailed descriptions for each of our tours allow you to judge if the tour is right for you before you decide to book and with a variety of tours on offer, you are sure to find something of interest. Our tours cater for all guests whether travelling alone or with others. By pre-booking your tours before you set sail, you can be safe in the knowledge that you are booked on the tours of your choice, allowing you more time to relax and soak up the atmosphere onboard.

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Abercrombie & Kent

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ur Classic Journeys collection is a portfolio of private tours encompassing the most important sights and experiences of iconic destinations around the world. They are priced around set departure dates, which allow customers to save around 10% on the price typically charged for the same tour on a bespoke basis, without compromising on any of the Abercrombie & Kent bells and whistles. Clients will still enjoy all the hallmarks of the legendary Abercrombie & Kent service in each destination, where our own staff will look after them from beginning to end.

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Confit of wild sea trout summer peas,baby beetroots

Method • Remove the skin from the sea trout, place the skin between two pieces of baking paper, place in the oven for 20 minutes at 140°C. • Remove from the oven and set aside pea espuma sweat the shallots in the butter for three minutes until soft and without colour, add the other ingredients and simmer for five minutes, pass through a fine sieve into an espuma gun and charge twice with gas, set aside in a fridge to chill.

• Cook the baby beetroot in boiling water until soft and you can then remove the skins.

• Remove the skins from the beetroot and set aside.

• For the sea trout confit heat the fat to 100°C in a heavy base pan with a food probe in.

• Remove the food probe from the pan and turn off the heat, insert the

food probe into the sea trout and lower into the fat, cook until the temperature reaches 45°C remove and pat dry.

• Place the sea trout into a bowl and assemble the beetroot on top and around with a couple of pea shoots and lay the crispy skin on top.

• Top with the pea espuma.

Recipe by: Brasserie on The Bay Princes Golf Club

Ingredients 150g portion of sea trout 4 baby beetroots 45g shallots diced 25g unsalted butter 3g salt 350ml full fat milk 100g fresh peas 600ml goose or duck fat Pea shoots

FOOD AND DRINK

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Millefeuille with fresh and poached Kent strawberries Ingredients One pack of ready rolled all-butter puff pastry 300ml double cream One large punnet Kent strawberries (about 600g) Seeds scraped from half a vanilla pod 2 tbsp icing sugar 500g granulated sugar 500 ml water Good grind of black pepper 4 tbsp balsamic vinegar Balsamic syrup to serve – now available in most good supermarkets

Method

Recipe by: Tudor Park Marriott Hotel & Country Club

We are passionate about serving our customers with a relaxed food experience that is tasty and fun... l

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A unique menu featuring Asian twists on pub classics as well as pub favorites.

A variety of weekly food evenings including; steak night and Thai and a pint.

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Great selection of beers and wines

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Relaxed atmosphere to help you unwind

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In the heart of the food and drink quarter of Whitstable.

Music and cocktails by candlelight in our courtyard You will find The Albert!!

Friday & Saturday local DJ’s are on hand with some hand picked music

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Sunday Brunch Menu every Sunday 12-5pm

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Families are welcome

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Pop up space available. (visit in house or online for more details)

FOOD AND DRINK

Sea Street, Whitstable, CT5 1AN The-Albert-Whitstable @TheAlbert1

01227 277936

www.thealbertwhitstable.co.uk

• Preheat the oven to 200°C/390F/Gas 6 • Lay the pastry out on a lightly floured surface and use an 8cm diameter plain cutter to cut out 12 rounds.

• Place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, then lay another sheet of parchment on top and place a tray on top of this. As there are four layers of pastry in this recipe, you don’t want the puff pastry to rise too high or the dessert will topple over.

• Bake in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes until golden Remove from the tray and cool on a wire rack.

• For the poached strawberries – reserve half the strawberries and put the rest in a shallow, heatproof dish.

• In a saucepan, bring the sugar and water to the boil, add the pepper and balsamic vinegar, and simmer until the sugar has dissolved. Pour over the strawberries and leave to cool. Place in the fridge overnight. By the next morning, the strawberry juices would have leached into the poaching liquid, making the perfect syrup to finish the dessert.

• Whip the double cream in a large bowl until soft peaks form when the whisk is removed. Add the vanilla seeds and icing sugar and whisk until stiff peaks form. Set aside.

• Slice the fresh strawberries.

• When you are ready to serve, place a pastry round onto each of 4 plates, top with a little cream and a few slices of strawberry. Repeat until you have four layers of puff pastry finishing with a layer of cream. Decorate the top with strawberries. Serve the poached strawberries around the dessert and drizzle with the poaching liquid. Dot the plate with a little balsamic syrup.

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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

to a whole new level

Taking advenTure

Bear Grylls a TV sTar, head scouT

and Born Survivor

ear Grylls is something of a Marmite character – adored and admired by many, a source of great irritation to many others.

But whatever side of the argument you subscribe to, there is no denying that the world’s most famous modern-day adventurer has the most remarkable life.

From being the son of a long serving, and knighted, Conservative politician, to conquering Mount Everest at the age of just 23, to serving for the SAS, to a terrifying parachute accident which it was feared would leave him unable to walk again, and now to his status as host to survival shows which

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CELEBRITY FEATURE

have made him a household name across the world.

Today, he is serving his sixth year as Chief Scout – ambassadorial head of the Scouting Association – a role which when he took over in 2009 he was the youngest to hold in the organisation’s long history.

He’s paid several visits to Kent in his role with the Scouts and one of this popular Bear Grylls Academy sites is in Ashford – an opportunity for youngsters to experience a day of adventure at one of the county’s leading educational outdoor centres; Grosvenor Hall.

Having turned 41 last month, he remains in tip top condition, is a father to three children and has, since 2000, been married to his wife Shara.

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And he’s never been busier. He has more than half a dozen separate TV shows running simultaneously around the world – including a handful in both the US and UK as well as one in China where he has a devoted following.

His most recent high profile shows was the prime-time ITV hit Mission Survive, which saw a host of celebrities dropped into the jungle to survive, as well as Channel 4’s The Island where selected candidates are, well, dropped on an island to survive.

The theme may always be the same, but it seems in this health and safety obsessed world, we are all in need of some good old fashioned adventure against the elements.

“Life covers us with a layer of fluff,” he admits.

“When you’re high up a mountain and you’re really touching life and death I found a strength that I don’t find in everyday life. I struggle with everyday life.

“And I can’t kind of really connect well but, when I’m pushed like this, I find there’s an authenticity in what I’m endeavouring to do that makes me feel a bit complete.”

Born in County Down, Northern Ireland, he is the son of the late Tory politician Sir Michael Grylls and Lady Sarah Grylls; their second child.

Named Edward Michael Grylls, he was nicknamed Bear when he was just a week old by his older sister, Lara. He certainly did not want for much during this youth.

Educated at public schools, he went on to study at Eton College before heading to university. They moved to the Isle of Wight when he was just four.

He explains: “I grew up in a cottage on the Isle of Wight, on the edge of the sea on the East Cliff.

We had a garden with huge trees where I learnt to climb.

“When I was a child I always had a strong desire to climb Everest ever since my dad gave me a poster of it when I was aged eight; I used to keep it on my bedroom wall.”

A Scout by the time he was eight, with his father a member of the prestigious Royal Yacht Squadron, he learned to climb and sail at an early age and as a teenager learned to skydive. He also became a karate black belt. 

“ ” We are lucky enough to live in an incredible country with great wilderness. We run survival courses all over Wales, Scotland, Devon, so many of the great mountainous regions of the UK.

CELEBRITY FEATURE

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After leaving school he joined the Territorial Army, eventually serving as a reservist with the SAS for three years until 1997.

His career in the Forces had been cut short after an accident he suffered during a freefall parachute accident in Zambia.

His parachute ripped as he fell and Bear fell landing on his parachute pack – partially crushing three vertebrae. His surgeon described his injuries as “within a whisker” of being paralysed for life.

It was questionable if he would even be able to walk again.

He would spend the next 12 months in military rehabilitation. Rather than let it set him back, however, he used it to spur him on – fulfilling his dream of climbing Mount Everest just 18 months later.

It would catapult him into the spotlight – sparking book and chat show appearances.

CELEBRITY FEATURE

By 2005 he had his first TV show and a year later he had Born Survivor – named Man vs Wild in major markets such as the US and Australia. And he never looked back.

His recipe of tackling the fiercest of nature’s landscapes with a blend of survival techniques –

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which often would see him dining on live animals and insects, or leaping off cliffs or out of helicopters, proved a winning combination.

He became the opposite of the health and safety obsessed societies we live in. He spoke out about a generation of children growing up without a sense of adventure away from a video game console.

And now he’s determined that those of us who want a taste of adventure grasp the opportunity.

He explains: “You don’t have to go to the ends of the world for adventure.

“We are lucky enough to live in an incredible country with great wilderness. We run survival courses all over Wales, Scotland, Devon, so many of the great mountainous regions of the UK. Just grab a tent, get a friend, tell someone where you’re going and go climb a mountain. We all want to climb mountains in life – but it’s a case of doing it and not just dreaming it.” mmm a CELEBRITY FEATURE

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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 100’s 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

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Bear Grylls’

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS: 1997 – Became the youngest Briton to ever climb Ama Dablam – one of the most challenging of the Nepal mountains and in sight of the base camp for Mount Everest.

1998 – Climbed Mount Everest Aged just 23 – at the time one of the youngest ever to climb the world’s highest mountain and potentially the youngest ever Britain. He did so just 18 months after breaking three vertebrae in a parachuting accident.

2000 – Circumnavigated the UK on jet skis Raising money for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, he led a team on the 30-day challenge 2003 – Crossed the North Atlantic in a rigid inflatable boat Travelling in an eight-metre long boat he, along with four friends, sailed from Canada to Scotland during which they faced icebergs and gale force winds.

2005 – Highest ever open-air formal dinner party In a somewhat bizarre feat, he and two colleagues created the world record for the highest ever formal dinner party under a hot-air balloon at a 25,000ft. They had to wear oxygen masks and made more than 200 parachute jumps to prepare. It raised funds for The Duke of Edinburgh Award and the Prince’s Trust.

2007 – Paramotors over the Himalayas Facing temperatures of minus 60C he set off from 14,500ft in a single-seater flying machine and climbed to 29,500ft – some 3,000ft higher than the previous record. He flew higher than Everest, but due to not wanting to go into Chinese airspace, was unable to actually fly directly over the top of it.

2008 – Longest indoor freefall Along with a double amputee, Bear broke the world record for the longest continuous indoor freefall using a vertical wind tunnel in Milton Keynes. He raised money for the Global Angels charity.

CELEBRITY FEATURE

ACTIVITIES For all the family we take you through some of the top

activities to participate in this summer London Sea Life Aquarium, London, Throughout the summer ee thousands of sea creatures in over two million litres of water. Discover over 500 species from every part of the world. See more than 40 sharks from 12 different species. Explore Shark Reef Encounter and brave the Shark Walk. Enjoy over 65 displays, filled with 30 species of plants and foliage. Visit 14 themed zones over three floors. Interact with the animals at our interactive public feeding, diving displays and touch pools. Explore the Antarctic in the new Penguins: Ice Adventure. We are open Monday to Sunday from 10am till 7pm.

For more information please call 0871 663 1678 or visit www.visitsealife.com/london

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11:00 - LEGO® Tall Towers Who can build the tallest tower?

12:00 - LEGO® Bridge Builder Who can build the strongest bridge?

13:00 - LEGO® Castle Constructor Who can build the largest Castle?

14:00 - LEGO® Tall Towers Who can build the tallest tower?

15:00 - LEGO® Bridge Builder Who can build the strongest bridge?

16:00 - LEGO® Castle Constructor Who can build the largest Castle?

LEGO® Building Competitions, Windsor Resort Throughout the summer uild and compete at the one and only Imagination Centre!

On weekends and during school holidays we will be hosting LEGO® Building Competitions! Please see the list of competitions below.

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ACTIVITIES IN KENT

The winner of each competition will receive the title of “Star Builder”!

Building Competitions last approximately 30 minutes and there can be up to 20 competitors per competition. Places are limited so to secure your place you must meet a member of the Education Team at The Imagination Factory at least 10 minutes before the Competition commences.

For more information please call on 0871 2222 001 or visit www.legoland.co.uk

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Haven, Allhallows, Kent, throughout the summer our family is unique - and so are our parks. Whether you want a holiday right on the beach or a few days near rolling hills, we’ll help you relax and have a good time. With heated indoor pools that are great for rainy days and outdoor pools that are perfect for the summer, you can make a splash whatever the weather. You’ll find a mix of slides, flumes, SplashZones, toddlers pools and more - all free to use. Put on your swimsuits and dive right in... we have gallons of water fun.

For more information please call 0871 230 2760 or visit www.haven.com

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Chessington World of Adventures Resort Throughout the summer ur theme park includes 10 themed lands AND over 40 rides and attractions.

Along with the Zoo, SEA LIFE centre and our daily shows - it makes Chessington Britain’s Wildest Adventure. Explore deeper below, or start planning your trip. With a large variety of rides to choose from, you can be sure to be kept busy for hours! From Vampire, Dragon Falls to Monkey Swinger, Chessington promises to deliver lots of fun for everyone in the family!

For more information please call 0871 633 4477 or visit www.chessington.com

O Alton Towers, Alton, throughout the summer wo fantastical high rope courses set within the captivating woodland of the Enchanted Village - a high ropes for those with a head for heights and low ropes for younger children or those who want to stay a bit closer to the ground!

Low Ropes For younger children and those who want to keep their feet a little bit closer to the ground, the Low Ropes course is perfect. Ranging from 3.5m5m high, the course still has thrills, challenge and adventure where participants can tackle a variety of elements and fly back to the ground on the exhilarating zipwire.

The Low Ropes experience will last between 30 minutes to 45 minutes. Guests participating in the Low Ropes must be at least 1m tall and over 6 years. 6 - 7 year olds will require one to one supervision on the course by a full paying adult who is 18 years or over.

High Ropes After a full safety briefing, guests can zipwire and swing from the trees as they navigate their way around the course. A dizzying 8m up in the trees

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of the Enchanted Forest, the High Ropes consists of 19 obstacles to challenge the thrillseekers who take on the course!

The High Ropes experience will last up to 1 hour. Guests participating in the High Ropes course must be at least 1.4m tall and over 11 years. 11 -12 year olds require one to one supervision on the course by a full paying adult who is 18 years or over.

For more information please call 0871 222 3330 or visit www.altontowers.com

ACTIVITIES IN KENT

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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

Clay Pigeon Shooting WEST KENT SHOOTING SCHOOL BRENCHLEY

GREENFIELDS STURRY HILL, CANTERBURY

et in 20 acres of partially wooded and landscaped grounds, West Kent Shooting School offers a comprehensive English sporting layout with over 100 different combinations of targets, including a 100ft Raywing High Tower. The range is carefully laid out to provide a totally natural setting for extensive shooting for both novices and experts, all within the beautiful tranquillity of rural Kent, close to Royal Tunbridge Wells.

For more information please call 01892 834306 or visit www.westkentshooting.co.uk

ituated in the Stour Valley just three miles from the cathedral city of Canterbury, Greenfields welcomes you to their shooting ground, clubhouse and gunshop on the hill in Sturry village.

Sturry Hill, with its woodland glades and sweeping views has been the 75-acre home of good shooting in Kent for over 60 years, and is supported by its on site gunshop. The distinctive log-cabin clubhouse with room for over 100, has hosted guests and visitors for the past 20 years. Its turf roof and natural materials are environmentally friendly. The clubhouse can be hired by groups and parties too, including for non-shooting events. For more information please call 01227 713222 or visit www.greenfieldsshooting.co.uk

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DARTFORD CLAY SHOOTING CLUB JOYCE GREEN FARM, DARTFORD ome and try clay pigeon shooting, you won’t be disappointed! It’s exciting and you never know, you may be our new Top Shot! Visit the website for more info on have a go.

For more information please call 01322 311001 or visit www.dartfordclayshootingclub.com

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COUNTRY LIVING

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Navy check flat cap £17.00 Barbour Navy check wool scarf £30.00 Howick

Navy tweed blazer £279.00 Barbour

Available at County Clothes Stores Tenterden & Canterbury

Hunter Balmoral bamboo carbon £135.00 The Golden Boot

Dubarry Wexford £349.00 The Golden Boot

Olive ‘Kingsholm’ coat £299.00 Barbour

Grey padded gilet £85.00 Army & Navy

COUNTRY LIVING

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ROBIN HOOD CLAY PIGEON SHOOT 364 COMMON ROAD, CHATHAM

WILLOW FARM SHOOTING GROUND READING STREET, TENTERDEN

he Robin Hood clay pigeon shoot is one of Kent’s oldest and most established shooting venues. Situated within the picturesque grounds of the Robin Hood public house, it offers excellent access and facilities all within minutes of the M2 and M20 motorways.

Under new ownership since 31st January 2010, the shoot has been extensively refurbished. For more information please call 07818 061783 or visit www.robinhoodclayshoot.co.uk

illow Farm shooting ground has been established for 25 years and is situated in the heart of the Kent countryside near Tenterden.

The ground comprises 29 acres and is open six days a week for Sporting, Skeet, Compact and DTL. Everyone is welcome from complete beginners to AA shots. They have experienced instructors available on site at all times. With prebooking they can accomodate groups of novices or experienced shooters, including stag and hen parties.

Refreshments and light snacks are available from our clubhouse Tuesday to Friday with full meals and cooked breakfasts available at the weekend.

For more information please call 01233 758703 or visit www.willowfarmshootingground.co.uk

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ABBEY SHOOTING CLUB KENT SHOW GROUND, MAIDSTONE

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he Abbey shooting ground is situated in the heart of Kent just a few miles away from the county town of Maidstone. Their shoot has been in existence for over 17 years and clay shooting has taken place here continuously since the early 1960s. Normally are available eight competitive classes: AA, A, B, C, Novice, Members, Ladies and Juniors.

For more information please call 07710 463896 or visit www.abbeyshooting.co.uk

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HAWLEY CLAY SHOOTING GROUND CHURCH ROAD, DARTFORD hey run a friendly shooting ground open to all. Their ground offers a top quality 70 bird English sporting shoot over seven stands that will challenge an experienced hand yet prove achievable for the less experienced gun, which is different every week.

For more information please call 07968 336474 or visit www.hawleycsg.co.uk

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COUNTRY LIVING

Garden GLOrY Summer iS here in full force...

SO Give yOur Garden that wOw factOr Skagerak coco lounge chair black £1499.00 Occa-home

ith summer in full swing, you want to make sure your garden is in tip top shape and presented exactly how you want it, with outdoor furniture that can portray perfectly that warm and wonderful home feeling. mmm recommends some perfect furniture you’ll want to display in your garden this summer...

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Skagerak lido chair £649.00 Occa-home

here’s something really nice about the idea of turning part of your landscape into an alfresco family room during two or three seasons of the year. It’s certainly a less expensive option than adding another room to your home. Who needs walls, anyway? Open air living has “green” appeal. It gets you back into nature -- and nature you can control with a flick of the garden hose or a spritz from a can of bug spray.

Making the transition to outdoor living requires a judicious reallocation of resources, though. If you’re outfitting an outdoor living area this season, finding comfortable, longlasting furniture can mean the difference between spending time on the patio for a while or heading indoors after a few cramped, uncomfortable minutes parked on a cheap patio chair. Patio décor has to be more than merely attractive to withstand the elements and provide good value for your outdoor decorating.

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GARDENING FEATURE

Trafalgar round planter fibreglass with faux lead finish £249.50 The Chelsea Gardener

Sarasota £299.00 DFS

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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 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.

WE WILL

beat superstore prices wherever possible

2 Saddleton Road, CT5 4JB. 01227 266209 Multi-fuel stoves

(Supply only - or installed by HETAS licensed fitters*)

Call us on

01622 662770

Unit E, Hart Street Maidstone, Kent ME16 8RF

Gas & solid fuel BBQs, wood fired pizza ovens Primo ceramic BBQ grills, electronic firelighters Far-Infared panel heaters, chimeneas *Plus stove servicing and maintenance by the same.

www.whitstablestoveshop.co.uk

Intriguing, unique and durable wooden Outdoor Retreats to suit all occasions

Showroom is

W o N OP

07946 135441 mail@therusticcompany.com

www.therusticcompany.com

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in partnership with

Sawmills Bespoke Furniture

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Gothic garden with planter £279.00 The Chelsea Gardener

Garden lifestyle Marks and Spencer Holly Willoughby rectangle lantern £40.00 Next

Hang-in-out - double cacoon - fuchsia £325.00 Amara

Insist on GOOD quality rom sloppy welds to cracked casters to amateurish paint finishes, a close inspection will expose that great outdoor furniture bargain for what it really is -- a bad buy that probably won’t last until next season. There are a couple of important lessons here, it’s easy to think of outdoor furnishings as somewhat less important than the stuff you buy for indoor use.

In fact, the reverse is often true. What you buy to use outside has to stand up to sun exposure, wind, rain and probably some roughhousing, too. Inspect every piece you’re considering for flaws, especially if the deal sounds too good to be true. This is one area where a higher price is often a good indicator of better quality.

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Oak swing, £1,900 therusticcompany.com GARDENING FEATURE

Mazda MX-5 The all new Mazda MX-5

on sale from 29th august fter accepting the Award from Auto Express Editor- in-Chief Steve Fowler, Mazda Motors UK Managing Director, Jeremy Thomson commented: “The MX-5 is a brand icon and it embodies all that is great about our products. Its fun to drive character has strengthened the bond between Mazda and its customers for 25 years.

Developed under the principle of ‘Innovate in order to preserve’ we’re delighted that Auto Express has recognised our engineers have created an all-new sports car that incorporates modern safety and superb efficiency with the value for money and driver focused enjoyment the original MX-5 is famed for.

“We’re equally delighted that Auto Express has recognised the all-new Mazda2, which brings new levels of refinement, style, quality and technology to the supermini sector, while at the same time delivering a little bit of MX-5 magic with its fun to drive handling. And Auto

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Express’ commendation of the all-new Mazda CX-3 is a fantastic start for our first ever small SUV, which arrived in dealerships on the 19th June.”

Having made its UK debut at the 2015 Goodwood Festival of Speed, the all-new fourth-generation Mazda MX-5 will arrive in dealerships on the 28th August to round out what has been an unprecedented year of new model launches for Mazda. With a superior power to weight ratio, rear-wheel drive, perfect 50:50 weight distribution and more comfort and technology than ever before, the all-new Mazda MX-5 is offered with a choice of two SKYACTIV-G petrol engines.

With nine models across five trim levels, the all-new Mazda MX-5 promises to reaffirm Mazda’s dominance of the affordable sports car sector. Maintaining the driver-focused ethos that has made the Mazda MX-5 the best-selling two-seater sports car of all time, the engineering philosophy behind the all-new MX-5 has allowed Mazda to retain a

the agility, fun and engagement that has always defined the MX-5, while at the same time meeting ever-increasing safety and efficiency requirements, alongside improved refinement.

The lightest MX-5 since the iconic original, the all-new Mazda MX-5 is shorter, lower and wider than the outgoing car, with the smallest overhangs and lowest centre of gravity yet. These dynamic proportions combined with Mazda’s KODO: Soul of Motion design philosophy ensure that the all-new Mazda MX-5’s styling reflects its focus on driving pleasure in an unmistakably contemporary and dynamic way.

Featuring Mazda’s award-winning SKYACTIV technology, the all-new MX-5’s ultra-efficient lightweight petrol engines deliver new levels of performance and economy. Across the range the all-new Mazda MX-5 features alloy wheels, Canterbury Mazda has been a Mazda Dealer since 1988 and we are the main Mazda dealership covering Canterbury, Thanet, Dover and Folkestone.

This all new MX-5 completes an amazing year for us, the fifth new product launch enhancing what is now a fantastic model range, from the super mini Mazda 2, through CX-3 and CX-5, the superb Mazda 3 and the award winning Mazda 6.

MOTORS FEATURE

LED headlights, a leather steering wheel, plus a lightweight and sleek fabric hood. SE-L models add LED daytime running lights, climate control air-conditioning, DAB radio, Bluetooth®and cruise control, plus Mazda’s MZD-Connect connectivity and infotainment system with 7-inch Colour touch-screen display and Multimedia Commander.

SE-L models with the 2.0-litre 160ps engine are distinguished by 17-inch Gunmetal alloy wheels and piano black door mirrors, and benefit from a strut tower bar and limited slip differential.

Step up to Sport trim and both the 1.5 and 2.0-litre cars feature rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensors and smart keyless entry.

With its lightweight design, sleek cabin, beautifully engineered mechanicals and balanced handling the all-new Mazda MX-5 is ready to cement its place in the hearts of driving enthusiasts.

Opening times Monday to Friday Sales, Service and Parts - 8.30am till 6.00pm Saturday Sales - 8.30am till 6.00pm Service and Parts - 8.30am till 12.30pm Sunday Sales - 10am till 4.00pm

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The unknown airman looks over the Channel

BATTLE OF BRITAIN ‘The HARDEST DAY’ ‘SEVENTY FIVE YEARS ON, ROBIN J BROOKS RECALLS JUST ONE

DAY IN THE FOUR MONTHS OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

hat General Weygand called ‘the Battle of France’ is over. I expect the Battle of Britain is about to begin. The whole fury and might of the enemy must very soon be turned on us”. So spoke Prime Minister Winston Churchill during a speech in the House of Commons on June 18th, 1940. It was a grim situation for Great Britain. In April, Denmark and Norway had been overrun by Germany. In May, Holland and Belgium had been invaded and conquered and our own British Expeditionary Force sent to aid France had only succeeded avoiding capture or destruction by the miracle rescue of Dunkirk. (See April edition of mmm). This was the position when the Battle of Britain began.

After Dunkirk the enemy began attacking Channel convoys. From their newly acquired bases in Belgium and France it was all too easy to take off from a coastal airfield, attack a convoy and return to base. They did not however have it all their own way as Fighter Command got into its war footing. From airfields in the south east the Hurricanes and Spitfires were scrambled to protect the convoys, a vital lifeline for Great Britain. With the Battle of Britain

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deemed to have fully started on July 10th, 1940, the attacks on convoys were slowly replaced by attacks on RAF airfields in Kent, Sussex and Hampshire.

From July through August, Fighter Command was in daily contact with the enemy as they tried to bomb the airfields into submission. It was however on Sunday August 18th, that the RAF and Biggin Hill in particular, came near to losing the fight.

The dawn saw a ridge of high pressure over the UK heralding another hot summer day. After the intense fighting of the previous days, the ground crews on all the Kent airfields had worked long into the night preparing the Hurricanes and Spitfires for the next day. Similar scenes were taking place across the Channel where the German ground crews were bombing and arming the aircraft that once again would carry the fight to the Kent airfields and coastal radar stations. The morning was to prove quiet and at most of the airfields the fighter pilots sat around in the sunshine outside their dispersal huts reading, sleeping or playing football and putting all thoughts that this day might be their last to the back of their minds. In the towns and cities of the county, some people were on their way to Sunday service whilst others stayed at home to cook the Sunday  HISTORY FEATURE

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rktops o w e k Bespo it on top that f , with y a d e in on ition Fitted ss or demol no me urs to o l o c 0 Over 5 e from s n choo ur ow o y b led rs Instal sional fitte profes ee e & fr c i v d a y n Friendlconsultatio home ew o fit n ! s l a e s W n door kitche

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Posted photo depicting a wartime scramble Credit - Fox

32 Squadron from Biggin Hil with hurricanes at Hawkinge Credit - Fox

roast with whatever meat they had been able to obtain. In the Chain Home and Chain Home Low radar stations along the Kent and Sussex coast, the early morning shift were at their consoles watching for the all important and obvious ‘blips’ to appear on the Cathode Ray tube. Any ‘blip’ would indicate a hostile enemy aircraft build-up, notice of which would be relayed directly to the No. 11 Group headquarters at Uxbridge. This operations room was housed in an underground bunker and was home to the fighter controllers and plotters. In the centre of the room, a large table would be marked out as a map showing the south east corner of the country. Various grid markings indicating distances etc and counters with squadron numbers and enemy formations would be at various positions around the table. As reports came in from the radar stations the controllers would pass the information to the airfields operations rooms which would have a similar layout to that of Uxbridge. They would then direct the squadrons to attack, this being marked by moving the counters around the table to be representative of the state of the battle. On the morning of August 18th, nothing would move until midday.

An ME109E-4 landed in Stubble at East Langdon Credit - Plant

Across the Channel, Air Fleet 2 was ready to commence the first attacks of the day. On their list of targets that morning was the Sector, or controlling airfield, of Biggin Hill. Known as ‘Sector C’, it controlled West Malling and Lympne airfields and was flanked by ‘Sectors B and D’. The former was responsible for Kenley whilst the latter was for Gravesend, Manston and Hawkinge. Forty eight Dornier 17s and Junkers 88s were detailed to attack Biggin Hill with sixty Heinkel IIIs detailed to attack the sector airfield of Kenley in Surrey. Each was to be escorted by Messerschmitt 109s and 110s.

Although the first enemy bomber force had taken off from their base at Amien shortly around 9am, the deteriorating weather in France forced a recall and it was not until 12.40pm that it had cleared sufficiently to allow the armada to cross the Channel.

As they did so the radar operators on the coast at Fairlight and Rye reported that 350 aircraft were crossing the French Coast. In Kent the sirens began to wail just as people were leaving Church. Looking up, they either hurried home or went to the nearest shelter. At Biggin Hill the two resident squadrons, No. 32 with Hurricanes and 610 (County of Chester) Auxiliary Squadron with Spitfires, were scrambled  HISTORY FEATURE

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The Battle of Britain National Memorial at Capel-le Ferne near Folkestone 79 Squadron Hurricanes up from Biggin Hill Credit - Kent Messenger

The 3 Biggin Hill heroes, awarded the military medal for bravery, L-R-Joan Mortimer, Elspeth Henderson and Emily Turner

to meet the incoming enemy formation. On the ground the order went out ‘Tin hats everybody please’. It was none too soon as bombs began to fall on the airfield. Stick after stick rained down with the resultant explosions and overwhelming damage. In the trenches and shelters, non-essential personnel could only listen in terror as the ground above was torn apart. In the air both squadrons battled valiantly to fight off the attack. 32 Squadron met the formation over Sevenoaks and broke it up scoring several victories in the process.

Though outnumbered five to one by Dorniers, Junkers and Messerschmitts, the Hurricanes feared nothing. Whilst they took on the bombers, 610 Squadron with Spitfires took on the escorting fighters. Climbing fast to 31,000 feet where the enemy fighters were waiting, the squadron downed five in as many minutes before the others turned and fled back to France. The Spitfires dropped altitude to come and assist the Hurricanes of 32 Squadron.

With a huge dogfight developing over Kent, the two squadrons battled until every enemy aircraft, now low on fuel, was forced to turn away and return across the Channel. In what seemed hours but was actually only minutes, many of the enemy aircraft did not return home. Of the two Biggin Hill squadrons, just two aircraft were damaged with the pilots safe.

HISTORY FEATURE

Back on the ground, during the intense bombing one Dornier had ventured low over the airfield and, mortally wounded, crash-landed close to the perimeter. Reputed to have been shot down by the local Home Guard unit, the actual damage was done by a 610 Squadron Spitfire attacking it although the men on the ground did receive recognition for their part in firing their rifles at the enemy.

Biggin Hill was a mess. Large craters littered the landing area and fierce fires were still burning.

Similar had happened to Kenley, just a few miles away. The returning fighters had difficulty in missing the bomb craters but once they were back in their dispersals, the ground crews swarmed over them to refuel and re-arm them before the next scramble.

Then the process of administering aid to the injured began. Although two personnel died in the raid, it might have been far worse. Those who were injured were either treated in the station sick quarters or taken to the local hospital according to their injuries. For many these were severe. In amongst the chaos however there were moments of courage.

WAAF Sgt Joan Mortimer was on duty in the armoury, the worst place to be in a raid. Although a hit by a bomb would have been catastrophic and undoubtedly killed her, she remained at her post

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to relay messages to the airfield defense posts. Her courage was recognized by the award of the Military Medal, the first of three that would be awarded to WAAFs at Biggin Hill.

For the squadrons there was no rest. Early that evening a strong enemy force headed once again for the airfields of Kent. 32 Squadron were scrambled to intercept them. Meeting them off Herne Bay, they managed to shoot down five. By sunset Biggin Hill was littered with flags marking un-exploded bombs.

It was the same on many of the fighter airfields in the south and south east. As a third major attack developed when an enemy formation approached the Thames Estuary, this time it was Manston and Croydon that were to suffer similar consequences to what had taken place at Biggin Hill.

It was not only the airfields in the south east that had come near to destruction. Airfields in Sussex, Surrey and Essex and the numerous radar stations had all been the subjects of enemy attacks. By nightfall on this decisive day, Fighter Command had flown 766 sorties and together with aircraft shot down by the ack-ack guns, could claim 71 enemy

aircraft shot down for a loss of 27 British fighters with 10 pilots sadly killed.

So ended a day which culminated in the largest loss of aircraft on both sides. The rest of August and the months of September and October were to see further attacks until bad weather and the onset of winter forced the German High Command to change tactics and begin the night bombing of cities and towns. The Blitz proper had begun at the expense of leaving the airfields of Fighter Command alone.

It was none too soon as levels of fighter aircraft and especially pilots was becoming critical. Now began the indiscriminate bombing of civilians by the enemy. Winston Churchill was the first to recognize what the pilots of Fighter Command had achieved when he gave his famous speech in the House of Commons on August 20th, 1940. “Never in the field of human conflict has so much been owed by so many to so few”.

The end of the battle came none too soon and victory in the air at this time ensured that our shores were never invaded.

BY ROBIN J BROOKS

No. 610 Squadron from Biggin Hill at the forward airfield at Hawkinge near Folkestone - Credit - Fox

A spitfire closes in for kill

A popular postcard of the period Credit - Sackville Press

A Heinkel HE111 delivers its devastating load HISTORY FEATURE

Local News KeNt BUSINeSS NeWS INSPIRATIONAL MEETINGS NOW IMAGINABLE AT TUDOR PARK Tudor Park Marriott Hotel & Country Club, in Bearsted, near Maidstone, has taken the stereotypical conference room setting and shaken it by its heels.

In a launch of its new Meetings Imagined concept on Friday June 26th, Kent business men and women were shown ideas that will put an end to lethargy and boredom in meetings and conferences of the future.

Visitors experienced first-hand some of the ideas that the Tudor Park meetings team will now be offering. On show were rooms which broke the mould of the formal conference layout - comfortable sofas and chairs to encourage uninhibited discussion; games and exercise equipment for destressing during refreshment breaks; and state of the art technology to guarantee the smooth running of a meeting or conference.

Demonstrations were given on the new `Meetings Services App’ which can be used to request coffee refills, change the room temperature and order more equipment without the need for the conference or meetings leader leaving their seat.

A major talking point was the food which is designed to inspire attendees to a meeting or conference, refresh them during coffee breaks and

keep them alert through an afternoon of speeches and talks. Homemade fruit and vegetable energy drinks, one-shot salads, and brain boosting healthy snacks are now all part of the Meetings Imagined offer.

“The launch was just a taster of what we can now offer as part of the Meetings Imagined experience,” says Natalee Moona, senior events manager.

“We want our business clients to get the best out of their staff or delegates, and so we will create an environment to make people feel inspired and to ensure the event is not only productive, but memorable.”

BALDWINS TRAvEL vOTED TOP TRAvEL AGENcy IN LONDON AND ThE SOUTh EAST The Baldwins Travel Group are celebrating their great achievement after being voted the Travel Agent of the Year for London and South East of England for the 9th year running.

The Baldwins Travel Group - which has stores in, Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge, Maidstone, Uckfield, Sevenoaks Travel, Grace Travel of Cranbrook and Travelux of Tenterden - walked away with the ‘Travel Agent of the Year - London and the South East’ prize at the recent LOCAL NEWS

agent Achievement Awards, held in London on the 7th July 2015.

The prestigious Agent Achievement Awards are acknowledged as the travel industry’s top accolade, recognising excellence and achievement in the UK’s travel agency community. Handed out annually, they are based on nomination and votes from key players in the UK’s holiday business.

Baldwins Travel Director Nick Marks said the agency’s success at this year’s awards could be put down to the hard work of its experienced and knowledgeable staff.

“We are delighted for all our managers and travel consultants in all our branches who work so hard all year round. Winning the award is a spectacular achievement and being recognised by our peers in the travel industry is a real honour,” he said.

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“WAR GAMES”: ThE hIGhLy AccLAIMED, NOSTALGIc EXhIBITION OPENS AT ThE hISTORIc DOcKyARD chAThAM The highly acclaimed, nostalgic and thoughtprovoking touring exhibition from the V&A Museum of Childhood, London: “War Games” opens at No. 1 Smithery: The Gallery at The Historic Dockyard Chatham this weekend.

The exhibition, for adults and children alike, explores warfare through play from 1800 to the present day and 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 the Lego Star Wars Death Star and Dr Who’s Daleks.

“War Games”, explores the intriguing relationship between conflict and children’s play, allowing visitors to pose questions and give their views and provides 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 an interactive 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.”

SWALE hEATING LADIES PLAy DIRTy FOR cANcER RESEARch Ladies from Swale Heating proved they were no stick-in-the-muds on Saturday (July 11th) when they got down and dirty to raise money for charity.

The team of seven, who all work in Swale Heating’s Contracts Department, crawled, climbed, slid and slipped their way around a 5km obstacle course at Maidstone’s Mote Park in the Race For Life Pretty Muddy® challenge.

They took an hour to complete the course, which included 10 obstacles and plenty of mud, raising more than £2,000 for Cancer Research – £1,700 of which was donated by their colleagues at Swale Heating.

Team member and Swale Heating Contracts Manager Dawn Fennell says: “It wasn’t too difficult but it was incredibly dirty. At one point we had to crawl through a pool of thick mud and we ended up having a mud flight which was great fun!

“Our work colleagues were fantastically supportive and really dug deep for the charity. It’s the first year we’ve ever done this but we certainly plan to do it again.”

Swale Heating staff: Lauren Thain, Carlie Edwards, Amber Thain, Lorraine Millen, Dawn Fennell, Jess Edwards and Debbie Vincent.

LOCAL NEWS

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KENT cOUNTy ShOW SUccESS The Kent County Agricultural Society, organisers of the annual Kent County Show, announced that visitor numbers for the three day Show reached 77,000.

Kevin Attwood, Chairman said: “We are absolutely delighted with the figures, however, just as importantly we have been inundated with positive feedback from visitors, exhibitors and competitors. We have never had so many people take the time to thank us for their great day out and comment on what a wonderful atmosphere there was at this year’s Show”.

The Friday attendance

was almost 50% up on the 2014 Friday attendance which in part was due to the spectacular display

by The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows. The Showground came to a complete stop at 2pm when everyone turned to the skies to see the breathtaking aerial display. The clear blue sky made a dramatic background to the close-formation display that had everyone on the site spellbound for the duration.

KENT LIFE hERITAGE FARM PARK DOES IT AGAIN! Kent Life Heritage Farm Park, near Maidstone, has picked up another award after being named Attraction of the Year by its parent company, Continuum Attractions.

Continuum Attractions runs seven highly successful attractions across the UK which collectively welcome more than a million visitors every year. Kent Life was judged the winner based on a variety of criteria, including improved sales and customer service satisfaction.

The awards were presented at a special ceremony held at Continuum Attractions’ Coronation Street The Tour attraction in Manchester.

The title is the second accolade that the attraction has won in as many months. In April, it was named winner in the Best Customer Service category at the prestigious Museum and Heritage Awards for Excellence 2015, dubbed the Oscars of the museum world.

Kent Life has scooped a raft of awards in the last two years, including gold at Tourism South East’s Beautiful South Awards for Excellence 2012-13 for Outstanding Customer Service; a coveted Certificate of Excellence Award from TripAdvisor; and a ‘highly commended’ in the Best in Education category of the National Farm Attractions Network.

Kent Life has something to entertain all ages and generations. Kids can go wild in the outdoor LOCAL NEWS

adventure play area or soft indoor play barn, as well as enjoy donkey rides, a pottery studio, junior electric quads, tractor rides, dressing up, stilt walking and much more!

Kent Life, set in 28 acres of glorious countryside, is also a real working farm, so there are plenty of animals to see including pigs, sheep, ducks, goats and alpacas. Young visitors can even snuggle up to the smaller farmyard friends in Cuddle Corner.

The attraction also has special events all year round so there’s always something to do, whatever the weather.

Kent Life is a Continuum Explore Attraction.

You can immerse yourselves in country life at Continuum Explore Attractions, where history and family fun sit side by side.

Continuum Attractions offer a host of cultural visitor attraction experiences across the UK, from the hallowed cobbles of Coronation Street to Edinburgh’s underground history told under the Royal Mile.

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KENT’S RUN OR DyE 5KM AT PENShURST PLAcE On Sunday 5th July over 3,000 runners took part in the world’s most colourful 5km, running, walking and dancing, filling the stunning grounds of Penshurst Place and Gardens with colour. Bringing the spectacular burst of Run or Dye colour to the estate for the first time, the event saw runners and walkers of all ages and abilities enjoy the most colourful event Kent has ever seen.

Taking part in the event this year to celebrate their tenth anniversary was John (49) and Kerry Jones (37) from Edenbridge, Kent. After meeting originally in South London the couple then married on 5th July 2005 and wanted to celebrate exactly ten years to the day by doing something completely different.

John and Kerry ran the 5km route in their original wedding outfits, adding a brand new splash of colour. Their three children aged 5, 9 and 11 joined them for the event.

Penshurst Place also hosted local celebrity Solomon Akhtar from Series 10 of the Apprentice. ‘Solly’ said he ‘loved the event and will be back for more.’

Filmed from above and side by side with on the ground and aerial camera crews the participants were showered with eco-friendly, plant-based cornstarch dye in a rainbow of colours as they ran, walked and even danced their way around the course. Runners and their supporters celebrated their achievement with the world’s most colourful party, the famous Dye Festival with DJ Sam making sure the celebrations kept going. Run or Dye will take place at 11 more events throughout the year across the UK so fans have plenty of opportunity to get involved and take part in an event.

Help for Heroes is the official national charity partner and several of the Band of Brothers and Sisters joined the crowds on Sunday, cheering on the wounded servicemen, women and veterans who ran alongside members of the public taking part.

Volunteers from local charity partner, St Lawrence CE Primary School and neighbouring schools covered the runners from head to toe with dye throughout the course as families, friends and colleagues ran and walked together.

JASON FREEDMAN NAMED AS JUDGE IN ASIAN cURRy AWARDS Having recently announced the sale of his Minnis Bar and Restaurant in Birchington-on-Sea, to Shepherd Neame, Jason Freedman has been named as regional judge for London and the South East in this year’s Asian Curry Awards.

Lovers of Asian food now can nominate their favourite Indian, Bangladeshi, Chinese, Thai, Japanese and Malaysian restaurants and chefs online at www.asiancurryawards.com/nomination. Voting closes 16th September.

“It’s a great honour to be selected as one of the judges in this year’s Asian Curry Awards – it’s a role I’m very much looking forward to undertaking,” said Freedman. “Before selling The Minnis which was open all day, 365 days a year, I would never have found the time.”

A keen devotee of Indian and Eastern cuisines Jason is also a member of both Master Chefs of Great Britain and the Academie Culinaire de France.

Whilst the judging criteria are heavily weighted towards the quality of the food and cooking, Jason will be awarding additional points for ambience, customer service and hygiene.

Short-listed chefs will compete in a live cook off in London on 5th October.

LOCAL NEWS

Buckmore Park LauNcH John SurteeS officially unveiled new look Buckmore Park

last month and mmm was there to join in the fun © Simon Burchett Photography

© Simon Burchett Photography

he only racer to win world titles on both two and four wheels took over the full ownership of the track earlier this year, and in July officially launched his era, revealing an all-new fleet of karts in the blue and yellow Team Surtees colours.

He was joined by the likes of Great British Bake Off host Paul Hollywood – who lives near Canterbury – who took a spin in the 2016 model Sodi RT8 390cc karts which will now be used in adult racing events.

And during the star-studded event, John Surtees found time to meet up with mmm publisher Rasa Dregva to enjoy last month’s special feature on his remarkable career.

Rasa said: “It was a great event and John was fabulous. Buckmore Park is a great venue and this unveiling of a new era was a great day. Everyone had a lot of fun.”

He also unveiled the ‘John Button’ suite in memory of former Formula 1 world champion Jenson Button’s late father. The walls have been painted pink, and features two photos of Jenson and John Button, which were specifically chosen by

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promotional FEATURE

Jenson. A specially framed pink shirt also graces its wall in honour of John Button – the colour he became synonymous for wearing.

Affectionately known as ‘Papa Smurf’, when John passed away, Jenson Button and his sisters Natasha, Samantha and Tanya launched the #PinkForPapa campaign encouraging fans to wear Papa Smurf pink T-shirts in his memory. To support the initiative, Team McLaren worked with Jenson to create a special pink T-shirt

K

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I first created an association with John Button when he supplied Henry’s first Comer kart engines from his Rocket company.

Both Jenson and my late son Henry enjoyed success in their karting careers here at Buckmore Park.

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” © Simon Burchett Photography

© Simon Burchett Photography

for fans, the proceeds of which were donated to the Henry Surtees Foundation.

The foundation was founded in memory of John Surtees’ son who died in a tragic accident during a race at Brands Hatch.

John Surtees said: “I first created an association with John Button when he supplied Henry’s first Comer kart engines from his Rocket company. Both Jenson and my late son Henry enjoyed success in their karting careers here at Buckmore Park.

“The #PinkForPapa campaign was a lovely initiative to honour John, I’m sure he would have been amused by the public’s enthusiastic reaction at the 2014 British Grand Prix. We are very grateful that the family chose the HSF to be beneficiary of the funds raised from the T-shirt sales. The John Button Suite here at Buckmore, will serve as a lasting tribute to John Button too.”

John Surtees, whose business is based in Edenbridge, won the Formula 1 World Championship in 1964, after winning seven World Motorcycle Championships.

Buckmore Park has been a hub of karting action for more than 50 years, and has seen some of the modern-day greats learn their racing skills at the track. Among them were Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button.

John would like Buckmore to continue to become a major feeder for youngsters to further their careers in motorsport. His aim is to continue to improve the facilities of Buckmore Park, and to integrate some of the objectives of the Henry Surtees Foundation.

The Henry Surtees Foundation aims to raise funds to support accident care, with particular emphasis on head injuries, and help to educate and train young people with motorsport-related programmes in technology, engineering and road safety instruction for two and four wheels. mmm PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

POLAR howard perry photography of black

and showing them off Tell us a bit about yourself?

I have been taking photographs for over forty years and became seriously interested in wildlife photography in 2006.

When and why did you start taking an interest in photography?

I was taking a trip to Svalbard, Norway in 2006 on board a converted Russian Science ship to circumnavigate the Svalbard Archipelago. During the voyage we encountered a huge range of wildlife and enjoyed several close encounters with Polar Bears. Photographing them, at close range, totally changed my outlook. I was so excited by the pictures that I soon began to take a greater interest in them and their behaviours. To widen my understanding, of bears in general, I began to visit more remote regions, in North West Canada, spending time observing and photographing Black and Grizzly Bears.

HOBBIES AND INTERESTS

Where are some of the best places for wildlife photography?

Many travel companies now offer “Eco Tours” which can provide unique opportunities to observe wildlife in more remote destinations. Over the past ten years I have found the Arctic, Alaska, Northern Canada and Antarctica all offer rich photographic opportunities for those with an interest in wildlife. Tasmania is one of the few states in Australia that has indigenous wildlife roaming free to photograph. For those who enjoy warmer climates the Galapagos Islands and the larger Game Reserves of Southern Africa can bring exotic wildlife within everyone’s reach.

Tell us about the risks and dangers of being so close to wild bears?

In my opinion the key to successful bear photography, like most wildlife, is to work in a way that does not impact on the activity or behaviour of the bear. From purpose built hides, such as those

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ExPERiEncE explains his and grizzly bears

in all their glory... in Glendale Cove, you can quietly observe them without them feeling threatened or disturbed.

They are not known to hunt man but are instinctively curious, which makes close encounters potentially dangerous if they feel threatened or cornered. Polar Bears are an endangered species and we have a responsibility to avoid direct contact at all times as any encounter, in the wild, can lead to a fatality. To a polar bear everything is food which means that to photograph them at close range you need to be well protected.

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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

Any tips for the beginners who are showing an interest in photography?

My most important tip is to be safe. Many of the regions and locations I have mentioned offer wildlife viewing tours. These are extremely helpful to provide local knowledge of what wildlife can be seen in safety. As you gain experience and knowledge you can look for more remote and exotic wildlife. Use the best photographic equipment you can afford. Consider hiring a specialist camera or lens. It is potentially a more cost effective way of having the use of equipment that you may only need once or twice a year. Pay attention to your clothing. Remember much of your time will be spent in the cold and wet at the cooler times of the day.

What are your future plans?

I have just returned from a trip to Antarctica where I was fortunate to be able to photograph penguins (King, Adele and Chinstrap) and the expansive landscapes. I will be returning to British Columbia, in September, to stay on the Namgis First Nation Reserve, Alert Bay. I hope to photograph the resident Orca Pods and more Grizzly Bears as they do feed on the spawning salmon.

HOBBIES AND INTERESTS

KATE EXCELL Excels in COMPETITION takes 3RD place IN MIss GalaXY UNIVeRse

ate Excell, partner and owner of Boost in Whitfield & Canterbury took part in this year’s Miss Galaxy Universe 2015, entering in the ‘Beach Body’ category for women aged 18 to 32 years and could not believe it when she was placed 3rd. This particular category was about keeping the female curves whilst showing a good lean body condition.

Day one consisted of the fitness tests, the Galaxy Games, which made sure the girls were put through their paces with the 800 metres, 200 and 100 metre sprint, a seated car pull, pulling a Smart Car for 15m, a weighted stress hold (8kg sandbag held in front of you with arms out straight), a sandbag 30kg shuttle-run, push-up challenge and long jump all done in a Wonder Woman two-piece outfit.

Day two was the stage competition which included a bikini and glamorous eveningwear round.

As a personal trainer and someone who doesn’t like to do things by halves, after hitting the big 3-0, Kate looked for a new challenge and decided to take on

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this venture to transform her own body whilst training her friend and client, Nina Bedwell. The plan was to see how far they could change their bodies, and confidence, in just 12 weeks.

Kate trained Nina over the three months and reveals her secret to success: “People always ask me how I get results for my clients and here’s my secret - weight training three to five times a week, good nutritional planning, mixed with Metafit HIIT workouts and mindfulness all at the Boost gym. To me, it was all about the confidence and although our bodies have changed dramatically, a happy healthy body and mind is so much more attractive than just dropping weight or inches and I just wanted to inspire others to make more positive changes”.

For more information please contact: Kate Excell, Jan Cross & Jen Cross www.boostcampfitness.co.uk info@boostcampfitness.co.uk 07896423920

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

what’s on & when Hops ‘N’ Harvest Beer Festival, Kent Life Heritage Farm Park, 12th - 13th September .Rextasy head a packed programme of live music at this year’s Kent Life Heritage Farm Park Hops ‘n’ Harvest Beer Festival.

The world’s only official live tribute band dedicated to iconic glam rockers Marc Bolan and T.Rex will play out the final day of the festival, which runs on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th September.

Along with T.Rextasy, who will be headlining on the Sunday, there’s a top line-up of local bands and musicians performing on both days, from 11am into the evening.

As well as live music, the award-winning attraction, near Maidstone, is offering festivalgoers the chance to enjoy a slice of rural history and sample a selection of up to 60 rare and locally-brewed ales and ciders – including a special Kent Life beer being created specially for the event by the county’s Old Dairy Brewery.

If beer’s not your tipple, you can relax with a cocktail in the Pimms Garden while enjoying the live music on the main Golding Stage.

Explore the time-honoured Kentish traditions of the hop festival and have a go at picking the hops by hand, and see the last working coalfired oast house in Britain, which will be back in full production for this weekend only. You can also meet Pearly Kings and Queens and other

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Hop Festival, Faversham, 5th - 6th September his year is the 26th year of the Hop Festival, and it will be celebrated in style.

There will be the usual excellent selection of live music on three stages, plus the Shepherd Neame stage, and the vibrant live music scene in the pubs around the town. Also featured will be a wide range of Morris dancing, and other dance troupes.

The family fun area enters its fourth year and will again provide entertainment and rides for the younger visitors.

There will be a large and

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WHAT’S ON AND WHEN

characters from Kent’s colourful past.

The packed weekend also features a host of activities including animal encounters and feeding sessions, water zorbing, face painting, junior quad bikes, tug-of-war and family races, as well as Kent Life’s indoor and outdoor adventure play areas.

Adults can check out the Vintage Village, featuring farmhouses throughout history; and if your little ones are into music, check out the children’s musical workshops being held throughout both days in the village hall.

Hungry hop-pickers can tuck into homemade cakes, sandwiches and hot meals at the 1950s-styled Dotty’s Tea Room, or enjoy a hog roast or burger from one of the visiting food vendors. There will also be refreshments and snacks in the Playbarn.

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

varied selection of stalls, along with official Hop Festival merchandising stands, where you can get souvenirs of your visit.

BACK AGAIN THIS YEAR – will be various exhibitions and activities celebrating the heritage of the hop industry in the Faversham area, which extends back over 800 years. The mascot “Harry the Hop” will feature in a number of the activities for younger visitors. The Festival Village at the Abbey School will also see development, providing music and entertainment for the camping community and others.

For more information please call 07827 219 224 or visit www.favershamhopfestival.org

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Ant-Man(12A), Woodville Hall, 10th August rmed with a super-suit with the astonishing ability to shrink in scale but increase in strength, con-man Scott Lang must embrace his inner hero and help his mentor, Dr. Hank Pym, plan and pull off a heist that will save the world. Monday 10th August 8pm, Tuesday 11th August 8pm, Wednesday 12th August 8pm, Thursday 13th August 8pm, Monday 17th August 3.30pm and 8pm, Tuesday 18th August 3.30pm and 8pm, Wednesday 19th August 3.30pm and 8pm, Thursday 20th August 3.30pm and 8pm. For more information please call 08442 439 480 or visit www.woodville.co.uk

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Wheels and Fins festival, Joss Bay Beach, Broadstairs, 11th - 13th September ounded in 2012 the first Wheels and Fins Festival was a resounding success, with great attendance and huge support from the local community. The event is built around live music and DJs, skateboard mini ramp competition and demonstrations, stand up paddle board demonstrations and fun race, also a beach volleyball tournament, soap box derby, skateboard slalom and downhill.

The ‘Wheels and Fins Festival’, is a three-day action packed music, extreme sport (surf, skate, SUP, soapbox, parkour) and family beach festival aimed at the local and wider community. The Festival is located on Joss Bay in Broadstairs, Kent and offers one of the finest sandy beaches within an easy commute from all over the South East. Over the summer the beach plays host to thousands of surfers and visitors soaking up the sun and the mellow vibes. For more information please call 07812 991195 or visit www.wheelsandfins.co.uk

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Pixels (PG), Woodville Hall, 28th August

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hen aliens misinterpret video feeds of classic arcade games as a declaration of war, they attack the earth in the form of the video games.

Monday 28th August 3.30 pm, Monday 31st August 10am, 3.30 pm and 5.30 pm.

The ‘hardest day’, Biggin Hill, 18th August n Tuesday August 18th, 2015, the ‘hardest day’ will be commemorated and re-enacted by a formation of 18 Spitfires and four Hurricanes flying from the historic airfield at Biggin Hill.

The inspiration of the resident ‘heritage hangar’, it will be the largest formation of warbirds seen in the skies of Kent since the ending of the conflict on May 8th, 1945. For details log on to www.biggin75.co.uk

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Welling charity toy and train fair, 12th August he Association of Bexley Charities ’78, which represents 11 local branches of organisations supporting the community in their fundraising efforts to improve people’s lives, is holding a charity toy and train fair on Wednesday 12th August 2015.

There will be new and pre-enjoyed model railways (Hornby, Bachmann, Dapol, Farish, Fleishmann) and spare parts; books; photographs; stamps; Sci-fi; die-cast vehicles (Dinky, Corgi, Matchbox etc); Dr Who; teddy bears; puzzles; birthday cards and postcards.

It will be held from 6.30pm to 9.30pm at the Falconwood Community Centre, 32 Falconwood Parade, The Green,Welling, Kent, DA16 2PG. There is a large car park with flat access and refreshments will be available.

Admission is: adults £1, accompanied children free.

For more information please call 020 8310 5018 or visit www.bexley.gov.uk

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WHAT’S ON AND WHEN

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The Johnny Cash Roadshow, White Rock Theatre, Hastings (East Sussex), 30th August elcome back the Johnny Cash Roadshow, a show not to be missed by avid fans or the casual listener. Also the only show to be endorsed by the Cash family! This year prepare for a musical adventure with the biggest production to date.

The UK’s No1 celebration of Johnny Cash, fronted by award winning singer/songwriter Clive John, recreates with astounding accuracy and truly captures the essence of what it was like to be at a real Cash show! Also featuring Jill Schoonjans as June Carter, Amanda Stone and Louise Masters as the Carter Sisters along with the ‘JC Horns’ all aspects of Cash’s life are covered with impeccable taste.

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The show takes the audience from the 1950s right up to 2002 and all the stops in between. All the greatest hits are included, along with songs from the latest album Out Among The Stars. All this accompanied by evocative screen images and shots from Johnny Cash’s life.

For more information please call 01424 462 288 or visit www.whiterocktheatre.org.uk

Honnington Country Fair, Honnington Farm, 5th September

Funny Peculiar, Theatre Royal Margate, 12th – 13th September

upport the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance as this worthy charity celebrate their 25th year of service, whilst having a fun day out! Weather permitting the Air ambulance will be fully operational for the duration of the fair. There will also be another helicopter offering rides.

Also, new for this year - camel rides with Joseph’s Amazing Camels.

New in the main arena there is sheep racing along with the ever-present birds of prey, dog agility, Splash Pals ferret racing and duck herding.

The second arena will be host to the working timber and agricultural display.

Have-a-go stands include: clay shoot, archery, air rifles, zorb balls, climbing wall and quad bikes.

Also knife and axe throwing. Yes, really! There will be a great fun fair, Scott the Clown’s Circus Workshop with fun packed activities and FREE face painting for all children.

Quality local catering on offer will include hogg roast and butchers BBQ, Fish ‘n chips, crepes, ovenbaked pizza, fresh hot doughnuts. The food can be followed with a cold one from the beer tent or something from one of the sweet and treat stalls a plenty.

Come and wander around a mass of trade stands where you will find anything from country clothing and arts and crafts to home-baked cup cakes.

Running again in tandem with the stunning Kent Italian Car and Bike Display and with the chance to win a brand new MINI in the charity’s WIN A MINI Draw, this event is one not to be missed!

For more information please call 01892 615742 or visit www.honningtonevents.com

n alternative guided tour of Margate.

Join intrepid tour guides Leslie and Lesley, discover the Eccentrics of Margate past and present. Lesley and Leslie believe that people who live their lives without worrying what others think are more likely to be healthier and live longer than the rest of us. Not only can we learn from people who defy convention – they are good for us, and should be celebrated!

The show itself is quite unlike any other: part walking tour, part audio experience, part live performance, developed by Paschale Straiton in collaboration with a cast of local artists, the streets of Margate will be filled with glorious fun and a healthy dose of the peculiar.

Look out for Lesley and Leslie appearing in their Funny Peculiar Head Quarters in town, drop in and find out more about the eccentric craze that’s spreading across Britain. Reveal your unusual habits and funny traits, that incredible story you heard about your aunty, or that neighbour who may be a little bit odd, the outcasts, the colourful, the entertainers, the musicians, the characters and the nutters – celebrate their stories!

For more information please call 01843 292795 or visit www.theatreroyalmargate.com

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WHAT’S ON AND WHEN

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An evening with Gregg Wallace, Eastwell Manor, 21st August

Kent’s 50th Festival, University of Kent, Canterbury, 4th – 6th September

he evening commences with a drinks reception at 7.00pm, a chance to meet Gregg and mingle with your fellow guests before going through to the Manor restaurant for a delicious five course dinner prepared by Eastwell Manor’s head chef, Byron Hayter, and the kitchen brigade using locally sourced produce wherever possible. Gregg will describe each course before it is served and will circulate from table to table throughout dinner.

For more information please call 01233 213020 or visit www.eastwellmanor.co.uk

oin a fun-filled weekend of activities at the University of Kent’s 50th Festival on 4th, 5th and 6th September. There is a packed programme of musical, sporting and academic activities - from street entertainment and science experiments to live music and creative performances, there will be something for everyone!

Taking place at the University’s Canterbury campus, the 50th Festival will feature over 100 activities and performances for people to get involved with. Build and launch a rocket, discover your inner cavemen or cavewoman or take part in a big draw! Are you brave enough to enter the dragons’ den or is crowdsourced poetry for you? Understand the science of tsunamis, become a light-graffiti artist and dance with robots. All this and much, much more!

The 50th Festival will mark the end of Kent’s 50th anniversary year, and all alumni, former staff and friends of the University are invited to attend the Canterbury campus for a weekend of celebrations.

For more information please call 01227 764000 or visit www.kent.ac.uk/50

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Kent County Youth Orchestra, Margate, 29th August ent County Youth Orchestra are teaming up with one of the world’s leading saxophonists, East Kent resident John Harle, as well as playing some of the greatest music written for the cinema in a summer concert at Margate’s Winter Gardens on Saturday August 29th.

Conductor Caroline Hobbs Smith leads the orchestra through four days of rehearsal at Ashford School, Ashford, culminating in the performance at Margate.

The concert features a host of great music written for films including Star Wars, Out of Africa and The Big Country. The orchestra will

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perform Stanley Myers’ Saxophone Concerto with saxophonist John Harle, who has also written scores of themes for TV and film, including Silent Witness and the Cannes Film Festival awardwinning Prick Up Your Ears.

Orchestra manager Roger Wilson said: “KCYO offers young people from all over Kent the chance to rehearse and perform great music and this summer we’re heading to East Kent to celebrate some of the finest music written and performed for the movies. We’re delighted to have John Harle, one of the world’s finest classical and jazz musicians, as our special guest.”

The full programme is: Out of Africa theme by John Barry; Things to Come suite by Arthur Bliss; Saxophone Concerto by Stanley Myers, featuring John Harle;The Big Country theme by Jerome Moross; Cavalleria rusticana, intermezzo by Pietro Mascagni; Twentieth Century Fox Fanfare by Alfred Newman; and Star Wars suite by John Williams.

Tickets for the concert at 7.30pm on Saturday August 29th at The Winter Gardens, Margate, are £16.50, £14.50 and £6.50 for students and are available online.

For more information please call 0333 666 3366 or visit the website www.kentcountyyouthorchestra.ticketsource.co.uk WHAT’S ON AND WHEN

WEAR THE ROSE WITH PRIDE Launch of the England Rugby World Cup 2015 Shirt ngland rugby fans faced the ultimate test of their commitment to the rose today, as they took to the skies to unveil the new Rugby World Cup shirt from over 15,000 feet in the air.

As the nation prepares to unite behind the rose in this special Rugby World Cup year, Canterbury and England Rugby gave three England fans the incredible chance to perform an exclusive tandem jump with the Red Devils over the English countryside, before launching the new England Rugby World Cup shirt in mid-air.

Following a morning of intense training, the specially selected supporters made the ascent to 15,000 ft. before launching themselves out of a plane with a giant replica of the shirt from Canterbury.

Each fan was partnered for their tandem jump with a member of the Red Devils, the official parachute display team of both The Parachute Regiment and the British Army.

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To complete their unforgettable experience, the fans were greeted at the end of their descent by England players Sam Burgess, Geoff Parling and Henry Slade, who presented them with their very own England Rugby World Cup shirts for this year’s tournament.

Speaking about the relationship between the national team and the supporters, England Lock Geoff Parling said: “It was great to have the chance to meet some of the fans today in such exciting circumstances. Jumping out of a plane at 15,000 feet is pretty committed! The players know how important the power of the nation’s support will be at a World Cup on home soil and we’re delighted that they are already a part of our journey.” Canterbury’s most innovative shirt yet features the first ever 3D moulded crest in the shape of the famous England rose.

For more information, please contact: House of Fraser Maidstone on 0844 800 3743.

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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 from celebrities to locals. Ali has over 20 years’ experience and will teach anyone who wishes to develop their own skills.

Tarot reading for August birthdays:

Star Signs that fall under August are: Leo (23rd July - 23rd August) and Virgo (24th August - 22nd September) A typical Leo Character likes attention and likes the limelight even if they are filming themselves alone and then putting it out there for all to see. They like to enter a room and be noticed. They get bored easily and they can be so much fun that you wish they would grow up and entertain themselves. They are great and loyal friends as they will bring you out of yourself and make you happy when you feel sad.

A typical Virgo Character plans ahead and is very organised in their mind. They will always have an agenda with any situation that arises both financially and emotionally. A true survivor as the self-preservation part of their personality is very strong. This doesn’t make them a bad person just a person who knows how to get what they need as well as what they want from life.

LOVE Leo - I am seeing a very strong connection with a character who likes to be the boss. This person is celebrating at the moment and you are helping them to enjoy their rewards. There is a sense of feeling empty though as I feel you want more from them than they can give you at this time, maybe in time your patience will pay off.

Virgo - A new relationship is starting and you are wondering where it will lead as this may be romantic but if you are already in a relationship this can be friendship with someone that you really connect with. You are staying isolated at the moment due to confusion in your heart.

Finances / Work Leo - I am seeing a similar character to the one in your love reading so maybe it’s the same I feel they are connected in your emotions as well as in your financial / work life.

I can see there is an obstacle happening in front of a project that will need careful creative planning to get the job finished.

Virgo - Keys to a property or a metaphorical step forward in a big way linked to your finances / work. I can see that a project you have been working on has leapt forward in a good way. You still have to keep certain aspects of it quiet for now as others really would try and talk you out of it if they know.

TAROT READINGS

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elebrities who also share August birthdays:

President Barack Obama 4th August

Chris Hemsworth 11th August

Madonna 16th August

AugustHoroscopes Capricorn 22nd Dec – 20th Jan Love/Family: A telephone call or communication from someone linked to your past will throw your head and heart into a spin around this time. You will need to decide how much you want and don’t want from this situation.

Work/Finances: : I can see connections over water and a need to look into letting go of someone in work that really isn’t doing you or your money / work any good. You are moving forward now and you are going to need to shed anything or anyone that isn’t beneficial now. You have already found that you have achieved within your finances or work life and you have done this mainly on your own.

Aries 21st March – 20th April Love/Family: You have set yourself and the people around you a high task to fulfil and although you can most of the time fulfil your end of the bargain other people around you are struggling and therefore disappointing you.

Is it time to lower your standards or accept that not everyone around you has the same principles and that’s ok?

Work/Finances: You are getting bored with a character connected to Work / finances that is all smiles and pleasantries but they are not fulfilling what their role or job is. Your patience is dwindling with them and there will be words exchanged if you don’t see some results to the promises made very soon.

You are a born doer and if it was up to you it would have been completed.

Aquarius 21st Jan – 19th Feb Love/Family: You are enjoying being independent and in control of your life. I can see that you feel strong and you feel like you are no longer being controlled by others, life feels great at the moment. A new person will bring with them some more energy and start to bring you out of your own world and into a wider and much more fun future.

Work/Finances: I see tranquillity and relaxation around you at this time and you are very happy with what you have achieved.

You have had to be secretive or close ranks a little from people who have been negative in your life and this has led to a shedding of the old and an introduction of the new energy / people coming into the present.

Taurus 21st April – 21st May Love/Family: The truth will be told to you linking to friends / family at this time and it will feel like a weight has been lifted from your shoulders. You have now realised that you sort of already had this knowledge in your own mind and this has just confirmed it.

Work/Finances: There will be talk around you regarding being self-employed or doing an extra job that will involve you being your own boss. I see that you have been bored recently regarding your own financial or work position and it’s time to expand your knowledge for a new quest. You have the ability to be successful no matter what you tried. If you feel it you will achieve it.

Cancer 22nd June – 23rd July Love/Family: Stepping carefully around an emotional situation so as not to upset anyone or upset the atmosphere between two others linked to this situation. Tranquillity is needed now where there have been cross words. I see that you are now learning to know who you can trust and also who you can’t.

Work/Finances: A character who is taking control of everyone and everything is going to really get on your last nerve and you will have to balance your emotions before you say something that will not be pleasant. I can see that this person has not just upset you but they have been too domineering to other people as well.

Leo 24th July – 23rd Aug Love/Family: Communication lines are down at the moment and you need someone strong to intervene and make things right again. You can be a little too boisterous and other people seem temperamental around you at the moment. You have three people around you and a power struggle going on.

Work/Finances: You are battling with everyone it seems at the moment. You have lots of energy and you tend to bounce into people’s lives and sometimes cause problems or bring about chaos. You don’t mean to but it’s in your nature to like attention and like to cheer everyone up. You are looking at other people’s lives sometimes as boring but you forget that some people like boring.

Libra 24th Sept – 23rd Oct Love/Family: You are meeting up with someone who in the past has been a difficult character to get along with. It can be linked to one issue that wasn’t properly resolved but is going to be now. You have met them halfway with communication lines and it’s better to get things sorted out. I can see there has been stubborn behaviour in the past by you or by them.

Work/Finances: A business minded person is asking for you to give them some help in their venture. You are needed to bring about balance financially and your level headed ideas will be used. You do like being part of this new venture as things had been getting a little dull in your work / financial life.

Scorpio 24th Oct – 22nd Nov Love/Family: : There is a strong feeling around someone that you have recently met or recently got close to and this person is making you feel confident and happy. It’s as though your prayers have been answered. This person may just be a friend or they may be more than that but it really is the happiness within you that is wonderful. Enjoy!

Work/Finances: I can see a very big challenge facing you financially / work wise at the moment or you are supporting a partner going through this. I can see a low financial flow for a little while and a sense of worry. Hang in there it is only temporary and then all will be well again. I can see that you like a challenge and that is how you will get through this hiccup.

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Pisces 20th Feb – 20th Mar Love/Family: Someone from your past is going to pay you a visit and this will bring back some very lovely memories but also so not so great memories. You are in two minds what to do regarding this person in your future life.

Work/Finances: A hard working person is re-entering your life out of the blue and with no warning. This person lives by routine and being much disciplined in their work. There will be an emotional feeling towards this person as well as a financial connection. You are confused as to how you feel about them both on a financial way and an emotional way. You will have to leave your emotions out of it for a little while to clear your head.

Gemini 22nd May – 21st June Love/Family: Love / Family: Someone close to you has shown you their true colours and you are no longer happy to be part of their life. You have pulled the drawbridge up around your heart. This isn’t going to be a hard separation even though you may think it will be.

Work/Finances: You have been nagged and nagged about looking at studying or looking enhancing old skills that you have once used to earn money. You know that this is the time to brush these skills off and take a look at new and old ways to earn money. You want to keep busy and you also want to save some money for something really special that is coming up early next year.

Virgo 24th Aug – 23rd Sept Love/Family: Since the beginning of August 2015 you have decided to put a barrier up to block out anyone or anything that may harm you or make you feel negative in any way. Your life is full of laughter right now and you don’t want this to change so you are shielding yourself. Over the next few days you will start to feel yourself open up again and you want to move on with your life.

Work/Finances: : You feel totally satisfied with the decisions that you have made recently and this is leading you into a good position to develop a job / work / financial plan even further. Fill your life with the happy rewards that you are seeing now and if you are satisfied stay in that stage for a while and enjoy. There will be many choices coming up soon so now is a good time to relax a while.

Sagittarius 23rd Nov – 21st Dec Love/Family: You have frozen out other people from your life due to you needing to deal with your own emotions. You have needed this time to work out how you are feeling and what you are going to do about it. After your little break away from this situation you will have a clearer mind and you will be able to deal with things better.

Work/Finances: You have a choice in work / financial matters that you need to make a decision about. I can see that there are two options and you need to stay focused to see which pathway shines out the best.

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RidgeWalk 2015

Village Hotel Maidstone team raise funds for the charity SENSE

he team at Village Hotel Maidstone have succeeded in their pledge to take part in The RidgeWalk 2015 and walked 26 miles across the Oxfordshire countryside to raise money for the charity Sense for deafblind people.

Toni Pearce, Carol Witt, Nick Filmer and Lindsey Popple set off at midnight and walked for 12 hours across rugged terrain and raised an outstanding £2,400 to help support children living with sensory impairments.

The funds were raised through a series of fund raising initiatives including raffles, coffee mornings, pub quizzes, wine tasting events spinnathons and individual sponsorship.

Veronica Kingham, general manager at The Village Hotel Maidstone and Robert McCluskey the finance manager acted as a support team for the walkers throughout the charity event.

Veronica expressed how proud the hotel was for the hard work and determination shown by the team and would like to thank the team at Village Hotel Maidstone and everyone who donoted to help raise funds.

The charity website is www.sense.org.uk

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