MMM Magazine October '15 by Rasa Dregva

Issue 45, October 2015 Complimentary

Kentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lifestyle Magazine

HELLO, good evening welcome and good night

Sir David

HALLOWEEN:

FROST

Where to go What to do

16 page PROPERTY supplement INSIDE

OTHER feature

Top tips to a better sleep

Delicious food recipes

Elizabeth

HURLEY

QUEEN OF CELEBRITY

GARDENING TRAVEL HISTORY AND MUCH, MUCH MORE

All items available from Hobbs

All items available from Marks and Spencer

Welcome ctober is something of a transitional time isn’t it? The summer now behind us, the nights are drawing in, and our minds start to entertain the fact that Christmas lurks just around the corner. But I’m sure I’m not alone in welcoming autumn and the changes it brings. Who cannot be bowled over by the beauty of our changing countryside as the deep greens of summer are replaced by the vibrant reds as nature transforms itself before our very eyes? Walking through piles of freshly fallen, crisp leaves on a bright but chilly October morning is a real treat. And while the temperature may start to dip, what better way to enjoy your evenings than getting cosy and snuggling up with the latest edition of mmm. Inside this month’s edition we’ve got an expanded property section – the perfect place to start your hunt for your next home. Some of the houses are magnificent and it’s hard to resist picturing yourself there. Also we feature Elizabeth Hurley the ultimate style icon. Her career at the very top of the celebrity pyramid now stretches over 20 years, during which time there has been as much attention on her private life as her acting and modelling. We take a look at what she has achieved so far. We also have a fascinating history piece on the author H.G. Wells. He lived in the county and there are plenty of links in his books that you can still see today. If you’re keen to take in a bit of history, where better than taking a trip to the beautiful Rochester? We’ve got ten good reasons to do just that inside. So settle down and enjoy this month’s edition. And, as ever, if you have any comments or contributions to make please do not hesitate to let us know.

See you next month! Rasa

mmm

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

10 REASONS TO vISIT ROCHESTER We give you plenty of reasons to visit Rochester before Christmas

mOTORS The new Audi Q7 model

FOOD Glorious food recipes for autumn

BUSINESS Current news in Kent

CHARTWELL Sir Winston Churchill’s family home – his source of inspiration

PANTOS Let the festivities begin!

TRAvEL Stylish holidays with Baldwins Travel Group

EvENTS Highlighting family fun and celebrations throughout kent

SIR DAvID FROST His legacy continues

HOROSCOPES Ali Janes reveals your destiny this month

ive

red

6th

his

tle

ote

l, B

atc

25 Ferrari th AN

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

H.G.WELLS From science fiction to predictions

llec tio

Further Contribution Tracy Jones

HALLOWEEN CELEBRATIONS Create haunting memories this October

Accounts Kerry Head

GARDENING Our guide on what to do in your garden this month

um mer

Sales Sue Houghton sue.houghton@mmm-media.com Crystal Fahy crystal.fahy@mmm-media.com

g/S

Design Matthew Jones

ELIZABETH HURLEY Reigning queen of celebrity

rin

Editorial Tom White Robin J Brooks Tricia Lester Sarah Vince

11 18

Publisher Rasa Dregva

aid

F TH

E FE

ERS

CLU

REA

RIT

AIN

mmm

10 mmm

A UNIQUE mix of TIME-HONOURED family EMPORIUMS and modern DESIGNER shopping

Mon to Sat: 9am - 5.30pm Sunday: 11am - 4pm

Opening Times

The ROYAL STAR ARCADE is a retail gem that offers a twist of stylish independent and exclusive retail outlets under one roof. Each level leads onto the spacious mall and all are enclosed by an ARCHITECTURALLY designed glass atrium.

JOIN our Loyalty Scheme and receive OFFERS throughout the YEAR!

01622 690395 High Street, Maidstone, Kent ME14 1JL

www.royalstararcade.com

queen of Celebrity She’S juSt turned 5o, but lookS aS Stunning aS ever

ElizabEth hurlEy on fashion, tV and hugh grant here has been something of the royal about Elizabeth Hurley ever since she first shot to superstardom in an outfit described simply all these years later as ‘that dress’. Appearing on the red carpet for the premiere of the classic Four Weddings and a Funeral in 1994 – she was the then girlfriend of its leading man, Hugh Grant – she slipped into a daring Versace dress which propelled her on to the front pages of every national newspaper the following morning. Created from silk and lycra, with oversized gold safety pins in ‘strategic places’ and wide open at the front to leave little to the imagination, it was her ticket to household name status. And as Four Weddings proved the British hit movie of the year, she and Grant were like celebrity royalty; the media unable to get enough of the young attractive duo; with their upper class accents and obvious ambition. Not, of course, that Hurley was just the pretty girl on the arm of the rising movie star. She was already catching the eye and sculpting a career for herself as a model and actress – appearing in her first film in 1987. But there is no denying the additional exposure of her relationship with Grant, which began in 1987, would catapult her career into the stratosphere. And to prove she was no flash in the pan, not only did she turn 50 earlier this year, but she continues to model for Estée Lauder and is now the star in US TV show The Royals in which she plays Queen Helena – wife of King Simon. The show has certainly met with a mixed critical a

12 mmm

reaction – many enjoying its bed-hopping antics and slice of glamour, while The Independent described it as “possibly the worst TV series ever made”. Not that it has stopped a second series. With much filmed at Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, Hurley and other stars, among them Joan Collins, recently shot scenes at Allington Castle near Maidstone ready for its debut on the E! TV channel. “It’s a drama,” she explains, “it’s not a comedy, but it’s fun and it’s light hearted. I think it’s quite sexy.” And her character – which she stresses is clearly fictitious and not based on any royal past or present – is one she clearly enjoys getting to grips with. “Actors often say that it’s more fun to play bad than good. It’s always something you can get your teeth into, but I think my character, Queen Helena, does bad things, without doubt. “But I think it’s definitely open to debate whether some of those things are for the greater good. She loves the nation. She loves her subjects. She does love her family and she just wants everyone to be fabulous. Unfortunately, she does sometimes take devious steps to make that happen.” For a woman once famous for that relationship with Grant, she has carved out a remarkable career ever since.

Of course, that 13-year romance is mentioned in every interview – especially given Grant’s subsequent superstardom on both sides of the Atlantic. Not, that it seems, the duo broke up never to see each other again. They remain close even today. But first, what of THAT dress? “It was nothing to do with me – but that dress was such a landmark in fashion history,” she explains, “it was down to the dress. It’s exhibited in museums now. It’s gone on tour. It’s remarkable.” And Hugh? “He remains my best friend to this day – I love him,” she says, “but he can be very annoying.” Their relationship hit a major problem eight years in when Grant was caught with prostitute Divine Brown performing a certain sex act on him – something which generated enormous publicity. (As to underline the star power, when interviewed several years later, Brown admitted she had made around £1m from selling her story about that fateful night.) Hurley, however, stuck by her man. They would continue for another five years before, eventually, they announced “an amicable split” in 2000. Since then, her private life has been conducted under the glare of media scrutiny. a

14 mmm

In 2002, she gave birth to Damian – son of American entrepreneur and tycoon Steve Bing. He at first denied the child was his, claiming they had only had a brief relationship. But a paternity test proved the child was his. Perhaps taking comfort in her past, Hugh Grant was invited to be Damian’s godfather. The three of them are often seen out and about today – frequently prompting rumours Hurley and Grant may reunite. In 2007, after a five-year romance, she wed Arun Nayar, an Indian businessman – they had divorced by 2011. A little later that year, she started dating Australian cricketer Shane Warne and the two were engaged. But again, unlucky in love, they separated in 2013. Now she continues to turn to Grant – with the two often spotted holidaying together. Speaking earlier this year, she admitted the single life was suiting her. She said: “I’m on sabbatical. I’m busy at the moment, family, work, I’m working more now than I ever have been, no time for love.”

And what of a romantic reunion with Grant? “I don’t think that will happen,” Hurley admits, “but he’s the best friend anyone could have.” She, in turn, is godmother to his child – a duty she also carries out for Lennon, the son of Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher and actress Patsy Kensit, and two of David and Victoria Beckham’s children. Truly she is among the celebrity royalty. TV show The Royals has given her a new lease of life and once again upped her profile. a CELEBRITY FEATURE

mmm 17

Despite her numerous efforts to establish herself as a recognised actress, she perhaps remains best known for her role in 1997’s Austin Powers movie alongside Mike Myers. A recurring role in Gossip Girl and now The Royals has seen her find a new career in TV. As for still looking so stunning at 50? She puts it down, in part at least, to working for so long for Estée Lauder and “having access to their products – and using them a lot”. No wonder they keep renewing her contract. Few could have predicted 21 years ago that Elizabeth Hurley – she despises, coincidentally, being called ‘Liz’ – would still be so high profile, especially given she and Hugh Grant have not been together for 15 years now, but she continues to defy the critics. And having reached 50 and still looking dazzling, it would appear there will be no end in sight of the model and actress disappearing from the headlines just yet. mmm

CELEBRITY FEATURE

a wizards halloween party Has your cHild transfigured into a witcH or wizard?

NOw IS THE TImE TO bRING THEIR FANTASIES TO LIFE his type of party is just as much fun to prepare for as it is to throw, because it involves making imaginative props that you can create with your child. Depending on your budget and the number of children who will be attending, create invitations in one of two ways: For a smaller group of children, buy one small toy owl for each child and create an invitation to tie to the owl’s foot, then wrap the owl in parchment and send in the post. Or if the children live close by, hand-deliver to save on postage, or have your child deliver them at school. For a larger group of childern and to save on cost, make owls out of brown paper and tie the invitation to the cut-out owl’s foot. Post together in a large envelope. A sample invitation would be: You are cordially invited to an evening at Merlin’s Castle located at 23 Pleasant Street for a fun night of magical lessons and games. Broomstick and other supplies will be provided. Please come dressed in wizard or witch attire, either with or without a robe. Parents are also welcome to wear magical attire. For the night of the party, prepare a small magical bag for each child. Use blue or purple fabric with a stars and moons design and tie together with white or yellow string. Put the following items in each bag:

• A place card stating which wizarding house they are in: house of the werewolf, house of zombies, house of the unicorns, or house of the banshees • A spell book • A quill • A wand. In the living room set up a few small tables or one long table with votive candles or pillar candles lighting the room. Use blue, purple or orange tablecloths sprinkled with glitter for a more magical effect.

mmm 19

Set up the following items on the tables for the children to practice their magic lessons: • Two or three crystal balls • Tarot cards for them to read each other’s futures. • Glass jars with coloured water labelled as various potion ingredients. • Small plastic phials for them to make potions in. • Large feathers to levitate. • Mini pumpkins to transfigure into candles. You can also make broomsticks for the children to have flying practice with, though ensure supervision. Purchase either inexpensive, regular brooms at the store or Halloween brooms at a party store. Paint the broomsticks blue, green, deep purple or red, or attach long colourful ribbons to the handles. Each child picks out their own broom when they arrive to collect their magical bag. With all the materials set up, let the magical lessons begin! Each child takes turns in divination, potions, levitation and transfiguration, writing their results in

their spell books. If you get a lot of “wizarding teachers” arriving, let them play with the children, too, or they can be the ones to jot down the progress of each experiment. Conduct flying lessons outside with everyone together. Since this type of party requires a lot of supplies, contact parents ahead of time to tell them about the party’s theme and ask for contributions so that everyone can contribute. An evening at an enchanted castle with their fellow witches and wizards is the perfect Halloween party for any wizard or witch in training. Plan the party for the last weekend in October or on the night of Halloween for a magical gathering that your child will never forget.

Halloween Diary dates mmm showcases exciting events throughout Kent

Halloween fun week, Kent and East Sussex Railway ake part in activities including pumpkin carving and face-painting. All activities are included in the ticket price which includes unlimited journeys between Tenterden and Bodiam Station on the steam and diesel trains. Trains leave Tenterden station at 10:40am, 11:45am, 1:15pm and 2:45pm. For more details call 01580 765155 or visit www.kesr.org.uk

Pumpkin designs Penshurst Place

29th

oin Penshurst Place’s Head Gardener in the Buttery for a special children’s workshop,learning how to create realistic Halloween designs for truly petrifying pumpkins, before crafting your own Jack O’Lantern to take home in time for Trick or Treating. Ticket £22.50 to include a pumpkin and a carving kit. Suitable for children aged 7+ to be accompanied by an adult. Ticket to include Garden entry for one accompanying adult as well as the participating child. For more details call 01892 870307 or visit www. penshurstplace.com

October

C DIARY DATES

October

Spooky Ball Eastwell Manor, Ashford pend a spooky Halloween at the historic and gothic Eastwell Manor. Arrive by the treelined, torch lit driveway and enter the manor house where the flickering flames of the blazing log fires add to the atmosphere of the spooky evening that lies ahead of you. 7pm - complimentary Spooky Cocktail in the Great Hall. 8pm - a candle lit dinner will be served in the 2 rosette Manor Restaurant. After dinner enjoy the resident live band in the Great Hall and dance the night away until midnight. (Black Tie or Spooky themed dress.) Please call for more details 01233 213020 or visit www.eastwellmanor.co.uk

Halloween Cookie Class, Belmont House ome and get into the spirit of Halloween! Children can enjoy making all sorts of spooky cookies. All ingredients, aprons and equipment will be included. Refreshments provided. Gluten, nuts and favouring will be used. £12.50 per child suitable for children aged 8 – 13 years. To make a booking please call 01795 890202 or visit www.belmont-house.org.

27th TO 30th

29th

October

31st

October

mmm 21

Witches and Wizards Academy, Leeds Castle

Halloween Spook Fest Kent Life

hildren will be spellbound at Leeds Castle’s Witches and Wizard Academy TO this Halloween Half Term, sponsored by the Kent Messenger. From 24th October to 31st October, your quest to become a wicked witch or wizard begins! Explore the grounds of the Castle with a quest card which will lead you to spooky characters hiding in the gardens, grounds and maybe even the maze. They will each teach you a different magical skill but you need to find them first! Every good witch and wizard needs to know certain spells, search the grounds and learn each one from potion making with gruesome ingrediants in a giant cauldron to broomstick riding and spell casting. For more information please call 01622 765400 or visit www.leeds-castle.com

here will be plenty of gooey and ghostly goings-on at Kent Life Heritage Farm Park’s Halloween Spook Fest this halfterm, from Saturday 24th October to Sunday 1st November. October The award-winning attraction, TO near Maidstone, invites you to November brave the snakes, spiders and scorpions in Creepy Cuddle Corner, take the plunge with slimy zorbing, climb on board for a terrifying tractor ride or join one of the many scary characters for a ghost story – if you dare… For something a little less spine-tingling, test your artistic skills with daily pumpkin carving and the ghoulish fancy dress competition. Kent Life is also a fun and safe place to go trick or treating, so come and knock on the doors of its frightening farmhouses and historic houses and find out who’s lurking behind them! For more information please call 01622 621249 or visit www.kentlife.org.uk

24th 31st

October

24th

1st

DIARY DATES

have a FrightFul halloween this Year some advice to be sure

of a safe halloween night KEEP SAFE THIS HALLOWEEN ccording to statistics, children are four times more likely to be injured from falling accidents on Halloween night than any other night of the year. It stands to reason, with ill fitting costumes and masks that block vision and hearing, children crowded together pushing, in a hurry to get to the next house, such accidents are inevitable. There are basic safety tips that can insure your family have a safe Halloween night. And since Halloween is up there in the top five most magical and exciting holidays, it’s a good idea for parents to know what to say to their children about safety.

IT CAN BE SPOOKY OUT THERE! ith a few simple rules, your children can be safe. A large variety of costumes can be found online from Indiana Jones to a scary pirate. Perhaps your trick-or-treater would like to be Tinkerbell or a Christmas Angel. Costumes are a leading cause of accidents during this holiday, which can be alleviated by making sure the costume doesn’t drag along the ground. By allowing the child to wear the costume before the big night, you can check to see if it needs adjusting. Other safety measures include making sure that your child’s mask is easy to see out of and there are no sharp items being carried that can cause injury when falling. Have your child carry a torch, even if you’re going out with them or one of the many glow sticks available. By going with children you are insuring their safety, but when you can’t, always make sure children travel in a group and there is someone old enough to supervise them.

HALLOWEEN FEATURE

IT’S A GHOULISH THOUGHT, BUT ACCIDENTS HAPPEN.

ccidents can happen anytime, anywhere, but on Halloween night they are much more likely to happen for a variety of reasons.

Shoes that match the costume are not always a good idea, especially if these shoes are hard to walk in, wobbly, or too high. Explain to your little Princess that she can wear her shiny high heels during play time around the house, and paint her white tennis shoes with sparkly glitter and other decorations for Halloween. It’s always a good idea to teach children proper etiquette, but for Halloween it’s a must, and it’s a good idea to discuss this with your children before Halloween night. Remind them about sharing and making sure they don’t crowd to the front of the line and knock fellow trick-or-treaters. Pushing causes accidents. Keep the excitement contained by not allowing sugar treats before leaving the house. And above all else: No sweets to be consumed until they get home and have everything checked!

Halloween October 31st

mmm 23

24 mmm

HALLOWEEN AND PUMPKINS

THE START OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON!

hat would Halloween be without carved pumpkins? It’s fun to sit down with the children, and create an image upon the pumpkin. But remember, a candlelit pumpkin on the porch, or dangerously placed, can be hazardous. Place the lit pumpkin away from where the child will stand waiting for sweets. A child walking up to the porch with a frilly outfit on will be unlikely to pay attention to a burning pumpkin and may get too near the flame. It’s probably best to burn candles in the house or arrange high enough where it would be impossible for a child to reach.

ome people look at Halloween as the beginning of the Holidays. Although the old fashioned Halloween consists of going door to door, in some towns around the country, it is becoming a celebration where streets are blocked off and trick-or-treaters go only to the shops to get their treats. Supermarkets are open till late and children line the street in a parade of fashion, often having a photographer on hand to take pictures, and parents can feel relaxed knowing that their children are safe. And as long as we know that our children are safe, in the above mentioned ways, we can relax and observe it for what it is a fun holiday!

HALLOWEEN ISN’T JUST FOR CHILDREN!

riginally, Halloween began as a Pagan festival among the Celts of Ireland and Great Britain. There are many versions of the traditions of Halloween. But no matter how you celebrate it, keep it safe for yourself and your children. Remember the safety tips, and avoid injuries this Halloween season. This is a magical night to remember, one that can be free of injuries, but full of haunting memories that will stay with you.

HALLOWEEN FEATURE

mmm

26 mmm

mmm 27

28 mmm

Designer

REQUIRED You will need to have experience using: InDesign Photoshop  Illustrator  

Good production knowledge, attention to detail, ability to work under tight deadlines.

mmm Kent’s lifestyle Magazine

BE PART OF A CARING TEAM Please call to discuss further on

01622 299035

or email your CV to matthew.jones@mmm-media.com

mmm 29

Black bucket bag £499.00 Vivienne Westwood Parker £129.00 Dune

PER UNA leather gloves £39.50 Marks and Spencer

Lady fitzalen coat £349.00 Feather print top £129.00 Cardinal trousers storm grey £159.00 Wolsey derby silver leather shoes £159.00 Hobbs

Peridot £129.00 Dune

AUTUMN STYLE Brocade blazer £125.00 Black faux leather wrap skirt £49.00 Biba Gunmetal clutch £40.00 House of Fraser

Biba Textured trench coat £169.00 House of Fraser

Khaki zip off trench coat £169.00 Mint Velvet

Sofia cashmere black scarf £125.00 Amara

Jersey jacquard patchwork dress £160.00 Max Mara Weekend

Sofia cashmere white scarf £125.00 Amara

mmm 31

top tips to a

better sleep people often find getting to sleep difficult

here are some steps to a restfull night STICK TO A SCHEDULE aking sure you are going to bed at the same time every night regulates your body clock for a deeper sleep, allowing you to have an easier time resting your body and getting the right amount of sleep you physically need.

CURB CAFFEINE Fitbit flex activity and sleep tracker wireless wristband ÂŁ79.99 Boots

BEAUTY FEATURE

affeine increases alertness, it is best to keep caffeine intake to a minimum especially if you are having difficulty with getting to sleep. For a better effect, try decaf or herbal teas in the evening.

mmm 33

CREATE A SLEEP SANTUARY

ood sleep is more likely in a dark, quiet and tidy room, so be sure to keep the mess to a minimum and comfort to the maximum.

Fitbit charge wireless activity and sleep wristband blue ÂŁ99.99 Boots

SWITCH OFF COMPLETELY ry to limit your brain-stimulating activities, such as checking your phone, email or watching TV, anything that keeps your brain awake is best avoided just before going to bed.

T TRY A SLEEP BRACELET

ome products are designed to help wearers sleep better. Sleep trackers like Fitbix ďŹ&#x201A;ex are comfortable to wear on the wrist. So be sure to make it part of your bedtime routine.

10 reasons to visit Rochester before Christmas With its rich history and heritage, special events

there are plenty of reasons to visit rochester

‘Magna Carta Rediscovered’ at Rochester Cathedral (10th October - 6th December)

Two of Britain’s rarest documents have been brought together for the first and perhaps only time to go on display in the highly-acclaimed ‘Magna Carta Rediscovered’ exhibition in Rochester Cathedral. The first is Faversham’s rare and valuable 1300 Magna Carta with King Edward I’s seal still attached. It is one of just a handful of the last reissue of the document. The exhibition marks the 800th anniversary of the sealing of Magna Carta by King John in 1215. Rochester Cathedral is the second oldest in England.

‘Textus Roffensis’ at Rochester Cathedral (10th October - 6th December)

Taking pride of place alongside Faversham’s Magna Carta in the exhibition is Textus Roffensis, the ‘grandfather’ of Magna Carta itself, compiled in Rochester and dating back to the 1120s. Described as one of the most important documents in English history this iconic work, the only remaining copy in the world, is written in old English and

Latin, contains the earliest record of the English language, the first recorded English laws and the Coronation Charter of Henry I which influenced the barons who drafted Magna Carta. Magna Carta Rediscovered, in Rochester Cathedral’s Lady Chapel, is open 10am-4pm Monday to Saturday and 12-4pm on Sunday from 10th October to 6th December 2015. Admission is free.

4 3

Siege: The Story is Told at Rochester Castle (24th October)

Rochester Castle is one of the best preserved and finest examples of Norman architecture in England. With its great keep and square towers it is one of the tallest in the country, measuring 113 feet high, 70 feet square and it has walls 12 feet thick in places. The castle has a chequered history, having been subjected to siege three times and in 1215 partly demolished by King John, who gained entry by undermining the south-east tower, using the fat TOWN FEATURE

from 40 pigs to set fire to the pit props. Today, visitors can see the rebuilt round tower, contrasting with the square towers of the original Norman castle. To commemorate the great Siege of Rochester Castle Siege: The Story is Told, is a spectacular re-telling of the event using live action, special effects and film projection.

Siege 1215 at Guildhall Museum (until 10th January 2016)

The Guildhall, built in 1687, is one of the finest civic buildings in Kent and is now home to the Guildhall Museum, featuring more than 250,000 years of local history. Worth a visit at any time of the year, there’s a special exhibition, Siege 1215 which runs until 10th January 2016. This exciting, interactive exhibition is all about the events leading up to and during the Siege with a huge model of the castle, a blacksmith’s shed and medieval market stalls.

mmm

36 mmm

Rochester Christmas Market (28th - 29th November, 4th 6th and 11th -13th December)

This popular Christmas Market can once again be found in the run up to Christmas in the picturesque gardens of Rochester Castle. Soak up some Christmas atmosphere and enjoy a hog roast,

Siege 1215 at Guildhall Museum (until 10th January 2016)

Join Elijah Puddlephat and his nemesis, Mr Charles Dickens on an exciting adventure back in time. Born and bred in Dickens Country, Elijah Puddlephat is Medway’s second most famous novelist. He firmly denies any

TOWN FEATURE

mulled wine, hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts as you browse the wide range of stalls for those last minute gifts and stocking fillers. Opening times: 11am-6pm (10am-7pm on 5th-6th December) feelings of jealousy towards Mr Dickens, describing their relationship as a healthy rivalry. Elijah is thrilled to welcome you all on this fascinating journey visiting some of Dickens’ haunts, houses and literary inspirations. Are you are sitting comfortably? Then let the tour begin. Tours start and finish in historic Rochester and include the villages of Cobham and Cooling, Cobham Hall and Dickens’ last home Gad’s Hill Place in Higham. The tours run every weekend from Saturday, 7th November until Sunday, 20th December 2015. Starting from the Guildhall Museum in Rochester at 10.30am and 2.00pm

Dickensian Christmas 2015 (5th - 6th December)

An enchanting weekend of traditional Victorian Christmas festivities on 5th-6th December 2015. Packed with shopping stalls, Rochester becomes a feast of Victorian delights. There are lamp-lit parades, carols to be sung, Father Christmas to be met and even a guaranteed snowfall, framed by Rochester’s fairytale cathedral and castle. You’ll also see some familiar, fabled characters from Dickens’ muchloved stories. Highlights include: the Seven Poor Travellers Procession, the Grand Parade, a candlelit procession, the open air carol concert, and roaming street performers.

Horse and Carriage Rides (weekends 7th November 20th December)

As part of the Dickens Country Experience visitors can immerse themselves in the life and times of Victorian England by taking a horse and carriage ride through the same streets as Dickens once did.

mmm 37

Historic High Street

Rochester’s delightful Victorian High Street features some lovely historic houses. There’s Eastgate House, due to re-open to the public in 2016; Six Poor Travellers House, founded in Tudor times to provide board and lodging for six poor travellers and La Providence, a Victorian square with houses providing homes for people of Huguenot descent.

Rochester is unique for the absence of the usual high street names and there are so many little independent shops to explore. There’s also plenty of choice when it comes to places to eat and drink from the olde worlde to modern style bistros, to cafés and inns lunches and dinners. Stroll from the Bridge to Star Hill (or vice versa) to see what’s on offer.

Huguenot Museum

The Huguenot Museum is the first and only museum of Huguenot history in Britain. It tells an important story of Britain’s first refugees, the crafts, trades and skills they brought with them and the impact their contribution has had on the development of our country. Opened in 2015 the museum is located on the upper floors of the Visitor Information Centre in the High Street: huguenotmuseum.org

TOWN FEATURE

Spiralized courgette noodles with basil pesto 5 medium courgettes 2 ounces parmesan cheese, cut into chunks 1 small clove of garlic salt and pepper pinch of red hot chilli pepper 1 cup of slightly packed fresh basil leaves ¼ cup olive oil

Recipe from: www.theitaliandishblog.com

Ingredients

Method

PAD THAI

rESTAURANT

A Unique Experience At West Malling

Authentic Thai Cuisine served in a traditional way in exceptional surroundings

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

CHRI S T MA S

OpEN ING

HO uR S

20th / 21st - ClosEd 22nd - 12pm - 2.30pm & 5.30pm -10.30pm 23nd - 12pm - 2.30pm & 5.30pm -10.00pm 24th / 25th / 26th / 27th / 28th - ClosEd 29th - 5.30pm -10.30pm 30th - 12pm - 2.30pm & 5.30pm -10.30pm 31st - 12pm - 2.30pm & 5.30pm - lATE FOOD ANd dRINK

• Using the Spiralizer, make noodles out of the courgette. In a food processor, add the cheese, garlic, a pinch each of salt, pepper and chilli pepper. Mix until fine. Add the basil leaves and blend. Pour the olive oil into the feed tube slowly and pulse. • Place the courgette noodles into a serving bowl. Add the pesto and toss until all the noodles are coated. Don’t overdress the noodles. It will take a couple of minutes to get the noodles all coated just keep tossing. If the pesto is a little too thick, you can add a little bit more oil or a little bit of water, but don’t overdo it. Serve immediately - you don’t want it to sit too long.

Orecchiette pasta with mushrooms and pancetta Recipe from: www.theitaliandishblog.com

Method • Place a large pot of water on the stove to boil for the pasta. Heat a large sauté skillet over medium to low heat. Spray with a little cooking spray and add the pancetta. Fry pancetta until crisp, about eight minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon onto paper towels to drain. Pour off any oil but do not wipe out pan. • Add pasta to boiling water and stir. Time the pasta to cook for about 12 minutes. • While pasta is cooking, add one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil to the skillet in which the pancetta was fried. Add the onions, mushrooms, chilli pepper and black pepper. Add about ¼ cup of water to the pan. Toss everything together and mix well. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Mushrooms should be golden and greatly reduced in volume and most of the liquid should be evaporated. Lower heat. Add the thyme and cook over low heat for one more minute. Return pancetta to pan, along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir mixture. Test pasta to make sure it is done (it should be al dente - don’t overcook it) and remove from pot with a strainer and add to the sauce, allowing a little pasta water to transfer to the pasta. Turn off heat and add cheese. Mix well. If the pasta is too dry, just add a little more hot pasta water. • Taste pasta and if it needs a little salt, add it at this point. Add the fresh parsley and mix well. Add more grated cheese, if desired.

Ingredients 5 ounces pancetta, diced 8 ounces Orecchiette pasta 8 ounces mushrooms, thinly sliced ½ cup medium red onion, diced (about ½ medium onion) pinch of red hot chilli pepper 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, minced ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper ¾ cup grated parmigiano reggiano cheese sea salt to taste 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced

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

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.

Great selection of beers and wines

Relaxed atmosphere to help you unwind

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

Sunday Brunch Menu every Sunday 12-5pm

Families are welcome

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

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

01227 277936

www.thealbertwhitstable.co.uk

FOOD AND DRINK

Chocolate orange lollipops coated in toasted Kent cobnuts Method • Break up the chocolate into small pieces and place in a bowl with the double cream. • Place the bowl over a pan of simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the dish does not touch the water. Stir occasionally until the chocolate has melted. Stir in the orange zest and orange liqueur. • Find a suitable tray with sides, or a plastic container, and line with cling film and pour in the chocolate mix. Leave to set in the fridge overnight for best results. • Put the cobnuts into a small bag and crush using a rolling pin. Spread onto a baking sheet and place under grill until nicely toasted – keep a careful eye to ensure they don’t burn. Leaved to cool. • Turn the slab of chocolate and cut into small oblongs. Carefully mould each oblong into a cylinder shape which is best done while wrapped in cling film. • Roll each cylinder into the crushed toasted cobnuts to coat and then insert a cocktail stick. Keep in the fridge for up to 2 days until ready to serve.

JERSEY BOYS/SHOWADDWADDY Wednesday 21st October

THE BLUES BROTHERS

Wednesday 18th November

DIRTY DANCING/GREASE

Wednesday 2nd December

ROD STEWART

Wednesday 9th December

MOTOWN NIGHT

Wednesday 16th December

ELVIS

Wednesday 23rd December

FOOD AND DRINK

Ingredients 500g good quality dark chocolate 500ml double cream Zest from two large oranges Splash of an orange liqueur such as Cointreau 2 tablespoons of cobnuts, shelled

Recipe by: Tudor Park Marriott Hotel & Country Club

mmm 41

42 mmm

CHARTWELL HOME of Sir Winston Churchill hartwell was the much-loved Churchill family home and the place from which Sir Winston drew inspiration from 1924 until the end of his life. The rooms remain much as they were when he lived there, with pictures, books and personal mementoes evoking the career and wideranging interests of a great statesman, writer, painter and family man. Additionally, every winter The National Trust put on a new temporary exhibition to allow people to explore Churchill in more detail and draw items out of storage.

The hillside gardens reﬂect Sir Winston’s love of the landscape and nature. They include the lakes he created, the kitchen garden and the Marycot, a playhouse designed for his youngest daughter Mary. Beyond the gardens there is an expanse of woodland with looped trails, natural play areas and swings. There’s den building, a Canadian camp and opportunities to stretch your legs. When you visit the house Winston Churchill made his family home, you will discover the multitude of hobbies and past times he undertook here like his paintings, learn about his love of animals and 

Opening times

House - 11am till 5pm Restaurant - 10am till 5pm Garden - 10am till 5pm NATIONAL TRUST

44 mmm

wildlife but more importantly find out about the man behind the hero. You should also stop by the studio nestled in the orchard next to the kitchen garden. Step inside and see the largest collection of Churchill’s paintings hanging from the walls. One of the reasons Churchill bought Chartwell was for the water feature he could create. The lake already existed but in 1924 a dam was built to create the upper lake. These were camouflaged by brush wood to reduce the risk of bombing raids during the wars. Thankfully they now offer majestic views and provide a home for wildlife. He also built some of the walls of the kitchen garden at a rate of 90 bricks per hour. The garden produced fruit and vegetables for all his homes including 10 Downing Street. After a state of disrepair the kitchen garden was recreated in 2004 and now provides the Chartwell café with fresh produce. For more details visit at 1pm or 3pm for a talk from one of our knowledgeable volunteers.

IN CHURCHILL’S OWN WORDS “A day away from Chartwell is a day wasted” “Light and colour, peace and hope, will keep painters company to the end of the day” “There is no doubt that it is around the family and the home that all the greatest virtues, the most dominating virtues of human society, are created, strengthened and maintained”

On painting “I cannot pretend to be impartial about the colours. I rejoice with the brilliant ones, and am genuinely sorry for the poor browns”

NATIONAL TRUST

Take To The waTers with Baldwins Travel Group

Uniworld

s the world’s most renowned river cruise line, Uniworld redefines All-Inclusive by combining unsurpassed luxury and attention to detail with unmatched amenities, personalised experiences, unrivalled value and incomparable service. With everything included in the price – airport transfers, award-winning all-day dining, unlimited beverages, fully hosted excursions with personalisation options, all onboard local entertainment, all gratuities onboard and onshore, and internet and Wi-Fi access – guests can rest assured that their experience along Europe’s waterways will be everything it should be and more.

TRAVEL FEATURE

mmm 47

TRAVEL FEATURE

48 mmm

Cyplon Holidays

yplon Holidays together with Celestyal Cruises , offer exclusive Eastern Mediterranean cruises , which are a complete experience at sea. One that comprises of comfort, education, entertainment and luxury. You’ll absorb a lot in your short time on board, but you’ll end your cruise feeling relaxed and rejuvenated, thanks to a peerless personal housekeeping service, incomparable chefs and enthusiastic, expert guides. We promise you a once-ina-lifetime vacation, both on board and ashore.

Titan

here’s nothing like a leisurely cruise along one of the world’s great waterways. There’s no rushing, no need to pack and unpack, just sit back and enjoy the passing scenery in style and comfort as you sail from one picturesque town to the next. It’s a great way to discover a country in more depth too and vessels often spend the night in the heart of each city, within easy walking distance of the main sights.

TRAVEL FEATURE

mmm 49

TRAVEL FEATURE

50 mmm

TRAVEL FEATURE

mmm 51

TRAVEL FEATURE

52 mmm

Avalon Waterways

valon Waterways offers the ultimate in luxury river cruising, You’ll eat, sleep and dine in comfort on board Avalon’s modern river cruise ships. And you’ll experience the excitement of new surroundings – with all the fascinating sights and sounds on offer. Expect nightly entertainment on board and daily discoveries on our well-planned, shore excursions with expert local guides. We’re here to give you a fantastic cruise experience – and to make sure you’re catered for in every way. Also included with Avalon is our private chauffeur home-pick-up service taking you to and from your chosen airport.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

ruises from Dover with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines include a selection of fantastic itineraries to the Baltic, Norway, Europe, the Canaries and the Mediterranean. There are few better ways to start a relaxing cruise holiday than watching Dover’s white cliffs drift out of view as the excitement of your first night on board a Fred. Olsen cruise ship beckons. With cruises departing from Dover throughout 2015 & 2016, this iconic port is your gateway to some of the world’s finest and most beautiful destinations.

TRAVEL FEATURE

mmm 53

TRAVEL FEATURE

54 mmm

Swan Hellenic

ur inspiring itineraries not only introduce you to a host of fascinating destinations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they also help you delve into the cultural quirks and intriguing stories that make each port of call unique. Joining you on your cruise will be a maximum of 350 like-minded passengers who share your thirst for knowledge, along with carefully selected, renowned Guest Speakers. A programme of tailor-made shore excursions is included on every cruise along with flights and overseas transfers, tips and all meals in open-seated dining.

TRAVEL FEATURE

mmm 55

Catkins Holiday Home for Cats, Faversham Road, Charing. One of Kents most established catteries is now taking summer bookings. Unashmed luxury offered for your feline friends. Collection and delivery possible. Please call Sarah or Kerry to discuss your cats individual requirments on

01233 713831 www.catkinsholidayhome.co.uk

56 mmm

Hello, good evening

welcome and good night Two years afTer his deaTh

Sir DaviD FroStâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S legacy continueS to live on

mmm 57

here can be very few broadcasters whose net was cast so wide over the various different strains of televisual entertainment as that of Sir David Frost. And two years on since his death, his legacy continues to be felt everywhere from comedy to news and prime time Saturday night television. Because, while it would be easy to assume that Frost’s career was spent interviewing world leaders and fronting news shows – given the key focus of much of his career – his tentacles stretched around many other areas. From his time as a writer and performer on That Was The Week That Was, the satirical radio show in the 1960s, to the Frost Report, it saw him perform alongside a who’s who of British comedy legends. Providing a first nationwide exposure to stars who would go on to form some of the most influential shows for a generation. On the Frost Report were the likes of pre-Monty Python John Cleese, Ronnie Barker and Ronnie Corbett – launching the careers of all three. As well as bringing the world the classic ‘class sketch’. He became a television executive behind the

launch of the ITV franchise London Weekend Television, was a launch presenter on ITV TV-am, and his production company was behind Through The Keyhole, which he presented for many years. It was a show which peered into the homes of the rich and famous and which continues today – albeit now presented by Keith Lemon. Yet rather than brushing shoulders with celebrities, it was in the world of politics that he became a household name on both sides of the Atlantic. His legendary interviews with the former US president Richard Nixon – his first since being forced to resign over the Watergate scandal – are still regarded as a defining moment in television and have since been the subject of a major movie starring Michael Sheen, as Frost, and Frank Langella as Nixon. Nixon’s apology for his role and his disgrace, has set the bar ever since in a journalist’s desire to get a big result from an interview. Speaking after Frost’s death, Lord Birt, the former director general of the BBC, described the interview as “like being at a birth” such was its influence on all news programming that came after it. a CELEBRITY FEATURE

58 mmm

He added: “Nixon apologised because in the end David had him on the ropes so many times before you heard those words, he completely outargued him.” Nixon was far from the only high ranking political figure Frost grilled. He held the distinction of having interviewed every British prime minister who served between 1964 and his death, and all seven US presidents while they served in office between 1969 and 2008. Sprinkle into that the likes of Muhammad Ali, Groucho Marx, Noel Coward and John Lennon – among hundreds of others. It was a remarkable career for someone who was born and raised in rather humble surroundings in Kent. Born in April 1939 in Tenterden, he was the son of a Methodist minister and the youngest of three children – he had two older sisters. The family moved to Gillingham and the young Frost started life by following in his father’s footsteps by training, initially at least, as a Methodist preacher – a course he did not complete. He attended the Barnsole Road Primary School in Gillingham before passing the 11-plus and securing a place at Gillingham Grammar School – now known as the Robert Napier. A keen sportsman, he played football and cricket to a high level. So high, in fact, he was even offered a contract to play for Nottingham Forest. However, he turned it down in order to study English at Cambridge University. He may have only emerged with a third class degree, but it provided him with his first step into the world of the media, as

he became editor of Varsity, the university’s student newspaper, and Granta, the literary magazine. It was also there that he took an active role in the Footlights Drama Society, which over the years would produce so many household names. While he was there he would meet the likes of Barry Humphries, whose creation Dame Edna Everage remains much loved, and Peter Cook – the legendary comic. The duo, friends at first, would have a dramatic fall-out when Cook accused Frost of stealing material for his radio and TV shows. Having taken satire and put it on the mainstream BBC, his reputation was growing. By the late 1960s he was fronting an interview programme on ITV and by 1968 he leapt across the Atlantic to sign a big money deal in the US. a

mmm 59

q ar n E gu te B e it W wr L N y IL TE an W EA B

e te ote u

Open: MONDAY to FRIDAY at 8am till 5pm SATURDAY at 9am till 1pm

Stockists and Fitters of • LAMINATES • VINYL FLOORING • UNDERLAY • CARPETS Unit 8, Ballard Business Park, Cuxton Road, Strood, Kent, ME2 2NY Tel: 01634 720411 Email: info@carpetsalecentre.co.uk Website: www.carpetsalecentre.co.uk

mmm 61

He would become known as one of high-speed jet Concorde’s frequent fliers as he flew between the US and UK to front TV shows. His career was taking off and his fame would ensure his reputation for a life-time. Yet despite his jet-setting, he never lost sight of his Kentish roots. He professed a love of Gillingham Football Club all his life, and in 2008 received an honorary degree from the University of Kent at its ceremony at Rochester Cathedral.

Sir David Frost presented Through the Keyhole from 1987 - 2008

Current Through the Keyhole presented by Keith Lemon

It was in the same year the Sunday Times Rich List estimated his fortune at around £200million. Frost insisted it was not so large. But it was still considerable. His personal life reflected his career in many ways. As his star rose, so he started dating a host of high profile women; the actress Janette Scott, American actress Diahann Carroll and socialite Caroline Cushing. In 1981 he married Lynne Frederick – widow of Peter Sellers – but it was short-lived and the two divorced a year later. But on March 19th, 1983 he married Lady Carina Fitzalan-Howard, daughter of the 17th Duke of Norfolk. It was a love affair that would endure, delivering them three sons. They would remain together until 2013. In the August of that year, Frost had agreed to a speaking engagement on a ten-day cruise on the

ship MS Queen Elizabeth. Just a few days in, as the boat reached the Mediterranean, he would suffer a massive heart attack, from which he would not recover. He died on board, aged 74. The tributes were led by the prime minister David Cameron and echoed around the world. To underline his significance, a memorial service was held at Westminster Abbey and a stone laid at Poet’s Corner – a rare tribute to a rare talent. Attending the service were the likes of Prince Charles, the Duchess of York, the Duchess of Wessex, John Major, Sienna Miller, Pippa Middleton, Michael Parkinson, Terry Wogan and dozens of other famous faces. For his family, however, tragedy would haunt them yet again this summer. Frost’s eldest son, Miles aged 31, collapsed after going for a jog and died. Today, Sir David Frost’s legacy lives on in his work and his influence. He was, truly, one of Kent’s finest. mmm

CELEBRITY FEATURE

YOUR HOME This October AS AUTUMN IS HERE

WE TAKE YOU THROUGH OUR FAVOURITE HOME PRODUCTS Assen storage table £119.00 BHS

Lorenzo bar stool £129.00 Furniture Village Jiro sputnik £250.00 Areo concrete pendant £70.00 Ampersand £90.00 Amos house table lamp £40.00 Reynold task lamp £50.00 Nash table lamp £40.00 Nero wiggle pendant £75.00 BHS

Pierrot coat stand £165.00 Amara

Lustre silver rug £175.00 John Lewis

Wingback chair £995.00 Wallis the dog cushion £25.00 House print cushion £25.00 Blue woven throw £75.00 Blue printed vase £25.00 Cody oak table lamp in cream £95.00 Fresh Citrus candle £22.00 Red embossed bottle vase £20.00 House of Fraser

mmm 63

Zig zag nest of tables £229.00 House of Fraser

Classic wooden mirror 50cm x 120cm £89.00 Very

Glass Framed Florals (set of 2) £150.00 Next

Star ﬂeck lamp by Julien MacDonald £80.00 Debenhams

White staghead wall plaque £89.00 Very

Butterﬂy lamp by Matthew Williamson £80.00 Debenhams

Wilfred ﬂoor lamp £190.00 John Lewis

LET THE MUSIC FLOW

with Bang & Olufsen nthusiasts of great sound and Bang & Olufsen can now literally tap into their favourite music wherever they are in their home thanks to the audiovisual manufacturer’s latest innovation – BeoLink Multiroom. Recently launched at the Beoshop group’s Bang & Olufsen showrooms in Bexleyheath, Bromley, Cambridge, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, the intelligent system unites people’s new or existing Bang & Olufsen products into one wireless system. Through BeoLink Multiroom customers can play different music in different rooms or listen to one song throughout their living environment. Operating the advanced system couldn’t be simpler – when music is playing you just touch the Bang & Olufsen product to connect it to BeoLink Multiroom. Via the BeoRemote One remote control or the new BeoMusic App, users can even connect their Bang & Olufsen television to BeoLink Multiroom. Both forms of control also allow users to easily add or unlink rooms and even put all devices on standby. Heart of BeoLink Multiroom At the heart of BeoLink Multiroom is BeoSound Moment – Bang & Olufsen’s new groundbreaking intelligent audio system. With its exquisite wooden side designed to offer one-touch access to the soundtrack that ﬁts with your daily lifestyle, BeoSound Moment gets BeoLink Multiroom started with the absolute minimum of fuss.

Nearly 500 watts of power With BeoLink Multiroom and BeoPlay A9, it doesn’t get any easier to ﬁll a room with nearly 500 watts of punchy sound. Touch BeoPlay A9 and it takes its lead from the BeoSound Moment, producing phenomenal sound in mere seconds. Easy listening Connect BeoSound Essence to BeoLink Multiroom and it couldn’t be easier to control your music. With music coming from the BeoSound Moment, simply touch BeoSound Essence to connect via BeoLink Multiroom and then touch it again BeoSound Essence Remote to switch between tracks or alter the volume. BeoSound Moment

BeoVision Avant

BeoPlay A9

BeoLab 18

72 mmm

66 mmm

Property

mmm

Bethersden, Kent

£725,000

An impressive, well presented, five bedroom detached Grade II Listed home believed to date back to the 17th Century, with extensive parking and attractive garden locations in the popular semi-rural village of Bethersden. Viewing essential. EPC: Exempt

Sandway, Kent

£425,000 Smarden, Kent

A characterful and stylish Grade II Listed four bedroom semidetached cottage, believed to date back to the 15th Century, with a cottage garden and off road parking in the popular hamlet of Sandway, just south of Lenham village. EPC: Exempt

A stylish, well-presented three bedroom semi-detached family home with garage and off road parking, dating back to 1948, situated on the fringes of the sought after Wealden village of Smarden. EPC: E

Rural Egerton, Kent £350,000 Sandway, Kent A charming period three bedroom semi-detached Kentish country cottage with off-road parking, occupying a delightful plot in a small country lane set amidst rolling countryside on the fringe of the highly sought after village of Egerton. EPC: E

£385,000

£330,000

A charming three bedroom semi-detached Victorian cottage boasting a wealth of character features with double bay cart lodge and driveway, situated in the semi-rural hamlet of Sandway, just 1.1 miles south west of Lenham village. EPC: F

mmm

Hope Haven Charing, Kent

£495,000

A rare opportunity to acquire a charming and stylish early 16th century Grade II listed four bedroom village house, formerly part of a larger Wealden Hall House, boasting important historical character and a wealth of exposed brickwork and original structural beams,situated in the heart of the sought after village of Charing. Hope Haven is believed to have been built in the early 16th century and provides interesting and versatile accommodation arranged over three floors comprising an entrance porch, sitting room with feature fireplace and wood burning stove and an original Dais beam bearing the inscription dated 1616: “As God hath Lent us Earthly foode our bodies to preserve so Heavenly foode He will provide if we Him serve”, separate sitting/dining room with feature fireplace and wood burning stove, fitted kitchen with central island unit, ground floor bathroom with roll top bath, master bedroom with views over the rear garden and village church beyond, en-suite bathroom, two further double bedrooms on the first floor and a second floor fourth bedroom with additional separate loft room. The property enjoys secondary double glazing, gas fired central heating and a wealth of storage cupboards. Outside, the private enclosed rear garden benefits from a well kept lawn with mature shrub and floral borders, raised vegetable beds, sun patio and pergola and a brickbuilt garden store. The property is situated in the centre of the High Street in Charing village. Charing enjoys an interesting mix of village shops, pubs, restaurants, churches, private health and fitness club, primary school and doctor’s surgery. Transport links are well supported with Charing mainline railway station at the southerly end of the village providing access to London Victoria and Ashford International Stations, whilst Junction 9 of the M20 Motorway is some 5 miles distant and Junction 8 some 8 miles distant. Charing is also just 5 miles west of the large market town of Ashford with its excellent selection of leisure facilities, choice of schools and the International Rail station which benefits from the 37 minute high speed train service to London St Pancras.

Charing High Street £495,000

Charing

£730,000

Beautiful six bedroom detached family home, village centre located, lounge, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility, three bathrooms, established gardens, detached double garage.

Four to five bedroom character home, lovely finish, full of character, lounge, dining room, kitchen, master en-suite, family bathroom, no onward chain.

Biddenden Charing

£335,000

Three bedroom former bakery, lounge, dining room, kitchen, cloakroom, family bathroom, set over three floors, off road parking.

Charing

£95,000

Two bedroom park home, immaculate condition, lounge, kitchen/diner, two double bedrooms, bathroom, gardens, off road parking.

Charing

£450,000

Four bedroom detached family home, close to village centre, stunning kitchen/ breakfast room, lounge, study, GF shower room, family bathroom, ample parking.

£425,000

Three Bedroom former farm workers cottage, lounge/ diner, kitchen, GF bathroom, set over three floors, stable and hay barn, approx. ¼ acre, cranbrook school catchment.

Charing High Street £350,000 Three bedroom detached bungalow needing refurbishment, lounge, dining room, kitchen, three double bedrooms, established gardens, garage and drive no onward chain.

www.andrewandco.co.uk

mmm

Hidden Gem In Bethersden Address - Snoad Hill, Bethersden, Ashford, Kent TN26 3YD Bedrooms - Four Bathrooms - Three Price - ÂŁ1,150,000 ]A most attractive and well presented property, with a separate studio annexe, office, equestrian facilities, outbuildings, double garage and swimming pool with pavillion. The property, originally dating from the 1930s has over the years been extended and remodelled to offer a most charming and attractive family home. The property has good equestrian facilities with outdoor menage, stabling, outbuildings and double garage.

It is set within most attractive gardens, in a rural location within easy access to Ashford and its International Station. The property is also available with no onward chain. Internally the property has light spacious rooms and a quality finish which is evident the moment you walk through the hand made solid oak front door. The hallway is very welcoming with a light tiled floor flowing through the middle of the property allowing access to a number of rooms including the utility room which has space for all your kitchen appliances. The cloakroom is just beyond, with a family room just before the fantastic living room with a lovely open fireplace with exposed brick chimney breast and inset log burner.

mmm

The kitchen is often the heart of the home and this is no exception, with an island being the main focal point and a large space for your dining table and chairs, with fitted units and granite work surfaces. There is also a large walk in larder and double doors leading out to the impressive 28ft long conservatory which in turn opens onto the gardens. Furthermore there is a further sitting room that could also double up as a formal dining room, being just off the kitchen. Moving upstairs and the master bedroom has a large en-suite bathroom with separate walk in dressing room. Bedroom two also has its own en-

The gardens are mainly to the side and rear of the property and laid to lawn with a range of mature trees and shrubs with adjoining terrace. The swimming pool area is conveniently situated for privacy and surrounded by picket fence and heats to 32 degrees, with fantastic Oak framed pavilion, with additional bar area with kitchen and shower room. Built in speakers surround the pool making this a superb outdoor space for all the family. For more information, call Andrew & Co Estate Agency on 01233 632383, or visit their website www.andrewandco.co.uk

suite shower room, and there are two further double bedrooms and the family bathroom on the first floor. If the inside doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wow you enough the outside certainly will. The grounds extend to just under 4 acres which include paddocks and sand school, 5 stables, offices and a detached two floor studio style annexe, fantastic swimming pool area with separate bar area. The property is accessed via double electric gates which leads into a sweeping driveway with manicured lawns and mature trees surrounding and leads to the double garage which incorporates the annexe with a ground floor kitchen and cloakroom and first floor bedroom/living room.

10 mmm

Manor Court Property - Manor Court Address - Gillingham, Medway, Kent, ME7 2UX Bedrooms - Four Bathrooms - Two Price - £725,000 Manor Court A very desirable and sympathetically restored period barn, built approximately 150 years ago and

located in a highly regarded conservation area with an eclectic mix of character properties, surrounded by fields and tranquil farmland views. Offering spacious and versatile accommodation currently comprising, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, ensuite to master, dressing room, principle lounge, extensive 28’ kitchen diner and utility room. Outside there is a beautiful 100’ garden with a breeze house, heated swimming pool, pump room, plus a detached

mmm 11

double garage which is currently being used as a gym with wet room and a separate w.c, attached to the gym is a separate building which can be used as an office or subject to the necessary change of use permission, this building could be converted into an annexe. Viewing is essential to appreciate this really unique property and its lovely setting. Bridge and London Cannon Street all within

the hour. Rainham Mark Grammar School is approximately 2.5 miles away plus the superstores and links to adjacent major towns are within a similar distance. For more information, call Greyfox Prestige Estate Agency on 01634 757027, or visit their website www.greyfoxprestige.co.uk

12 mmm

01634 722 232

PROPERTY FEATURE

www.cousinslettings.co.uk

Covering KENT and surrounding areas

An Independent, Specialist Lettings & Property Management Agency Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Regulations Confirmed Parliament has approved the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015 - the regulations which looked in jeopardy after a House of Lords defeat last week. The vote confirms that from October 1 all landlords in England, or agents acting on their behalf, will be required to install smoke alarms on every floor of their property and test them at the start of every tenancy. Landlords or their agents must also fit carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with a solid fuel appliance, which includes wood burners and open fires. Those not abiding by the regulations face fines of up to ÂŁ5,000. The House of Lords last week rejected the draft legislation at is final stage on the basis that the proposed introduction was less than three weeks away and that the government had not done enough to inform the private rental sector of the changes. The Lords had also complained that the legislation was poorly worded. Around 445,000 smoke alarms and 40,000 carbon monoxide alarms have now been distributed by the 46 fire and rescue authorities in England in a bid to encourage agents and landlords to meet their safety obligations. However, even at this late stage the Association of Residential Letting Agents is hoping for an extension on the introduction date for the new regulations. At Cousins we pride ourselves on ensuring we are aware of any new regulations, to ensure we can advise our clients of these changes and ensure our clients properties meet with new regulations. We wrote to our clients in June, advising of these new regulations and since then have put new procedures in place to ensure our properties meet with the new regulations, that come into effect from the 1st October 2015.

Robert T Neill, Director

info@cousinslettings.co.uk

14 mmm

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

Bespoke Outdoor Furniture & Accessories

mail@therusticcompany.com

www.therusticcompany.com

07946 135441

mmm 67

Monday to Friday - 7.30am - 5.00pm Saturday - 8.30am - 4.00pm

Available from; Ask Plumbing & Heating Centre Unit 2, 2M Trade Park, Beddow Way Aylesford ME20 7BT

01622 791791 gary@askplumbing.co.uk www.askplumbing.co.uk

GARDENING JOBS for this month Clear up fallen autumn leaves regularly

Cut back perennials that have died down

2 Move tender plants, including aquatic ones, into the greenhouse

GARDENING FEATURE

Divide herbaceous perennials and rhubarb crowns

Plant out spring cabbages

mmm 69

Harvest apples, pears, grapes and nuts

Prune climbing roses

Order seeds for next year

6 8

Last chance to mow lawns and trim hedges in mild areas

Renovate old lawns or create new grass areas by laying turf

10 GARDENING FEATURE

70 mmm

mmm 71

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

We are one of Kentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest independent, family run Carpets and Flooring retailers based in Maidstone.Established for 24 years we are always here to offer sound advice and pride ourselves on our customer care.

CarpeTs Vinyl Flooring laminaTe Flooring Beds and maTTresses arTiFiCial grass Artificial grass guaranTees grass that is always green, despite the conditions, weather and environment. Our stock artificial grass which can be supplied at a cost of ÂŁ12.99 per square meTre is a premium 37mm natural looking grass, bleach cleanable with an appearance that lasts. Full arTiFiCial grass fitting service now aVailaBle see in store for details.

Tel: 01622 902014

Call us on

01622 662770 Unit E Hart Street Maidstone Kent ME16 8RF

72 mmm

WHAT TO DO IN YOUR GARDEN THIS OCTOBER ctober means that there is still plenty of work to be done. Not only is there a lot of lifting and clearing of summer flowering items, but many flower and vegetable varieties can be sown at this time too. Also there is still time to tend to the lawn. Lawn Care • In milder areas final sowings of grass seed can be made early in the month, provided soil and weather conditions are suitable. • Apply an autumn fertiliser to established lawns. • Growth is now slowing down and the final mowing should be done. • Remove any leaves that have fallen onto the lawn and add them to the compost heap. Flowers • Sow sweet peas in a cold frame or unheated greenhouse over winter, planting outdoors in March or April to produce early blooms. • In the heated greenhouse sow cyclamen seeds. • For colourful displays indoors during Christmas and New Year, plant containers with prepared hyacinth bulbs early in the month, and towards the middle of the month plant narcissus. • Plant up winter hanging baskets and containers using myosotis, pansy, polyanthus, primrose, dwarf wallflowers and spring flowering bulbs. Vegetables • Plant garlic bulbs using a suitable variety such as solent wight and swift which can be planted during October and November. • In sheltered areas make sowings of broad beans such as the aquadulce claudia towards the end of the month. • Lift and store root crops such as carrots, beetroot and potatoes. • Cut down asparagus to near ground level.

More monthly advice Things to do in the garden this month • Flowers • Trees and shrubs • Lawns • Ponds • Structures • Greenhouse, conservatory and houseplants GARDENING FEATURE

Fruit • October’s usually a great month for preparing the ground for planting soft fruit. Select a well drained, sunny position that is not prone to late frosts. Dig over the area incorporating well rotted farm-yard manure or garden compost removing all perennial weed roots. • Erect supports for cane fruits such as raspberries. • As the berries of late fruiting varieties of blackberries ripen they should be picked, and to keep the birds off the canes a netting should be used as protection. The canes can then be cut back to soil level and this year’s new canes should be tied in.

Greenhouse • If at all possible any tender perennials, such as fuchsias, which are in containers should be moved into a frost-free greenhouse for the winter so as to give protection from low temperatures that can occur at night in some parts of the country. • Also at this time, similar types of plants that have been grown in borders should be very carefully lifted, potted up and placed where they will be protected from the cold. • Remember to trim back any leggy or tall top growth that may have been left as this will avoid any damage being caused.

JB 2015 With Bleed_mmm master 20/09/2015 12:50 Page 1

ZtÜtzx wÉÉÜá ã|à{ áâÑxÜ|ÉÜ xÄxztÇvx

58 mmm

JB Garage Doors & Gate Systems

mmm 63

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

h.g. wells

prolific english writer Robin J bRooks tells the stoRy of heRbeRt GeoRGe Wells (h G Wells)

possibly the first english science fiction writer

f foresight is a gift then Herbert George Wells had plenty. Born on September 21st, 1866 at a flat above ‘Atlas House’ in Bromley High Street, his father was a professional cricketer playing for Kent and also a shopkeeper. His sport however did not bring wealth in those days and the family survived mainly on a past inheritance and a meagre income from the china and gift shop. None-the-less Joseph Wells was determined that his last son, known as ‘Bertie’ and one of three boys, would receive a good education and so enrolled him at Thomas Morley’s Commercial Academy which was a private school. It soon became obvious that although good in name, the school lessons were erratic. This did not really bother Herbert, as his only interest at this time was to retire to the library where, surrounded by literature, he was able to become a prolific reader. At this time an injury to Joseph Wells saw that he could no longer play cricket and thus the family income dwindled even further. In the hope of alleviating this, the three siblings were sent out to various apprenticeships with Herbert going to Southsea to become an employee of Southsea Drapery Emporium. Here he worked a 13 hour day with accommodation in a dormitory with the rest of the young apprentices. Meanwhile his parents had separated with his mother going to work at a large country house in Sussex named ‘Uppark’. The house had a very large extensive library and it was here that Herbert would spend most of his time whilst with his mother. In October 1879 it was arranged that he would join the National School in Somerset as a pupil-teacher. After a short period there however, he was dismissed for cheating in his exams and returned to Uppark. Taking a job in a local chemist for a short period, he enrolled at the Midhurst Grammar School as a boarder. This too lasted just a few months and he returned to Southsea to complete his apprenticeship. Becoming bored with the drapery trade, he was released from his employer and returned to Midhurst Grammar School in 1883 to continue his training as a pupil-teacher. From here he won a scholarship to the Normal School of Science to study biology and sciencem finding at last an outlet for his writing skills when he became the editor of ‘The Science School Journal’, a magazine in which he was able a

HISTORY FEATURE

mmm 75

76 mmm The blue plaque outside ‘Spade House’ in Hythe where he lived for many years

The blue plaque outside No. 23 Eardley Road. Sevenoaks where he wrote the ‘Time Machine’ book

to express his views on science and literature. It was here that the seeds were planted for the creation of one of his most famous novels, ‘ The Time Machine’. In 1891 he married his cousin Isabel Mary Wells which sadly floundered after three years when he fell in love with one of his students. He married Amy Catherine Robbins (known as Jane) in 1895, with the honeymoon being spent at No. 23 Eardley Road in Sevenoaks, Kent. Though a rather unusual place for such an occasion, Wells none-the-less began his first novel whilst getting to know his new bride. ‘The Time Machine’ was published in 1895 and immediately became a best seller. With a lack of science fiction writers around this period it was a good time to satisfy a hungry public who yearned to be able to time travel. The marriage at first seemed to work but finding that he could not be faithful, Wells embarked on a number of affairs even to the extent of fathering a daughter with one of his mistresses. In his book ‘Experiment in Autobiography (1934) he wrote: ‘I was never a great amorist, though I have loved several people very deeply’. It was during a visit to Stoke-on-Trent and the potteries that he became inspired to write another science fiction novel that has fascinated readers for HISTORY FEATURE

many years. ‘The War of the Worlds’ has become a classic and is the subject of at least two films. It tells of an invasion of earth by the Martians who arrive in huge metal cylinders. When approached by humans a creature of unimaginable horror makes an appearance. Mounted on tripods, the Martian army uses a heat ray to extinguish anything before them - with terrifying results. In the end it is the earth’s disease bacteria which kills them from which they have no protection. Still dogged by bad health, he thought that the sea air would help him and accordingly, in 1901, he and Catherine and their two sons, George and Frank, moved to Sandgate near Folkestone. He commissioned a large family home to be built close to the sea calling it ‘Spade House’. H.G. Wells also wrote non-fiction, his best selling work being ‘The Outline of History’ which he scribed in 1920. Although receiving a mixed response, he went on to write several others all of which made him a rich man. In 1933 another prediction that he had incorporated in the book ‘The Shape of Things to Come’ came to fruition. In it he stated that the world war that he had feared for many years would begin in January 1940. As history records his prediction was remarkable!

mmm 77

The death of his wife in 1927 had affected him deeply and he openly stated that despite his infidelity, part of his life was finished. The war years were melancholy for Herbert as recurring bouts of ill health plagued him. Victory in 1945 did nothing to revive his spirits, he further predicted that war still threatened the human race, all of which has come true. By now he was a sick and ailing man, the mood of which is reflected in his last book, ‘ Mind at the End of its Tether’. Aged 80 he died in 1946 with a wish that his body be cremated.

A close up of the house name

Outside wall with the name in the shape of a book

Herbert George Wells wrote over one hundred books several of which have been made into films some more than once. ‘The Invisible Man’ became a series on television, whilst his science fiction books including ‘First Men in the Moon – The War of the Worlds – The Time Machine’ etc, have attracted a cult following. His love of Kent, the county into which he was born and lived during much of his life, never diminished. His memory lives on as one of the great men of Kent. BY ROBIN J BROOKS

audi Q7 Luxury seven-seat suv receives fuLL five-star rating

awarded by independent crash safety body

he European Euro NCAP consortium has awarded the new Audi Q7 with the maximum five stars for safety. The results for adult protection in frontal and side impact collisions, pedestrian protection and child safety put the current Audi Q7 among the safest cars in its category. The results for the rear passengers in a frontal impact collision show that not only are the driver and front passenger in the Audi Q7 very well protected, the rear passengers are, too. The car also offers plenty of room and a high level of safety for children. Up to six child seats can be installed in the luxury SUV. The generous interior space makes their installation simple and comfortable. The individual seats in the third row, fitted as standard, are fully usable and are also certified for ECE Group III child seats for children weighing up to 36 kilograms. The multicollision brake assist system initiates braking automatically in case of an accident to

MOTORS FEATURE

reduce the risk of skidding and the danger of further collisions. Audi places maximum value on integral safety, going above and beyond the measures assessed by the institution. Central to Audi pre sense city in the Audi Q7 is a predictive warning and emergency braking system for accident avoidance and the protection of pedestrians. At speeds of up to 52 mph, the system observes the road with respect to other road users. If it anticipates a collision, it warns the driver according to a graduated concept: warning, warning jolt and automatic emergency braking. If necessary, it initiates full deceleration. Accidents at speeds of up to 24 mph can be avoided completely within the system limits. At higher speeds (up to 52 mph) the driver is warned. In addition, Audi pre sense city uses brake intervention to reduce the impact velocity and thus mitigate the consequences of the accident.

80 mmm

Other new assistance systems that make the Audi Q7 even safer in traffic are the collision avoidance assist, turn assist and exit warning. Whereas the collision avoidance assist helps the driver to drive around an obstacle with supportive steering to avoid an accident, the turn assist monitors oncoming traffic when turning left at low speed. In a dangerous situation, it brakes the Q7 to a complete stop, if necessary, to prevent a turn if there is oncoming traffic. With the exit warning, LEDs light up red when the doors are opened if other vehicles or bicycles are approaching from the rear. A rear traffic crossing system is also available, capable of alerting the driver when reversing out of parking spaces to any vehicles suddenly crossing from behind through visual and acoustic signals. The system can apply the brakes if a potential collision is imminent.

INFORMATION

AUDI Q7 Engine: 3.0 TDI quattro Transmission: Eight-speed tiptronic Performance: Top Speed 145mph Fuel Tank Capacity: 75 litres MOTORS FEATURE

82 mmm

Local News KeNt BUSINeSS NeWS Are You uP to dAte on eMPloYMent lAW? The new Conservative Government’s programme for employment law is set to bring in some significant and important changes, from the introduction of a National Living Wage to major trade union reform – but what impact will all this have on employers in Kent? The wide-ranging proposals and their implications for businesses will be explored during a seminar presented by leading South East law firm, Furley Page. The interactive workshop, run in partnership with Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, will be held on Thursday October 22nd and is open to Chamber members and non-members whatever the size of their workforce. Furley Page’s popular workshops are always oversubscribed and people are advised to book early to ensure they secure their place. Leading the workshop will be Andrew Masters, Partner and Head of Employment at Furley Page. “These events are vital to help employers and HR professionals keep up to date with the fast-changing complexities of employment law,” says Andrew, who

is recognised as a leading expert in this field. “We’ll be offering a comprehensive review of current and future developments so that employers are fully prepared for the changes the Government is introducing. As well as practical guidance, there will be a question and answer session so there’s plenty of opportunity for delegates to raise issues of concern.” Andrew will be joined by Amanda Okill, an Associate who specialises in employment law. The workshop will be held at Bridgewood Manor Hotel, Walderslade Woods, Chatham, from 8.30am to noon. Registration is from 8am.

All About the bees for schoolchildren in dArtford Schoolchildren in Dartford have been learning all about bee-keeping as part of a special project with Barratt Homes. Temple Hill Community Primary School played host to local beekeeper Barry Adams, when he popped in to present pupils with an interactive nature talk. Barratt organised the visit as part of its ongoing Educational Programme - and its pledge to build strong relationships with schools, clubs and organisations that are close to where it is building new homes. “We all know what a vital role bees play within our natural environment,” said Barratt sales and marketing director, Pam Reardon. “They are key to our ecosystem - and at Barratt we are doing all we can to help raise awareness of the need to protect this precious insect. “This latest visit by Barry Adams from the Kent Beekeepers Association was part of that. It was a wonderful demonstration - and we were delighted to be part of it.” LOCAL NEWS

Barry talked to pupils about beekeeping and about the types of plant and foliage that bees love: “I was impressed by the reaction I had from children at Temple Hill Primary School,” he said. “It was a great opportunity to demonstrate the wonder of bees, and how important they are to our planet. “Establishing an enthusiasm for bees from an early age is an excellent way of helping to protect their existence for future generations. I’m impressed by Barratt’s efforts to engage with young people about bees - and I thoroughly enjoyed the chance to highlight the work I do.”

mmm 85

STaMP dUTY cHangeS HaVe SaVed HoMebUYerS in KenT More THan £1 MiLLion Government changes to stamp duty introduced late last year were designed to reduce the level of tax paid by almost all homebuyers. Local house builder Barratt Homes has calculated that across Kent a family buying one of their brand new homes saved on average almost £4,000 before purchase. Across the county the housebuilder’s research reveals that this added up to £1.2 million saved by Barratt’s customers in the past six months alone. Pam Reardon, sales and marketing director of Barratt Kent says: “For most people, buying a new home is one of the biggest financial commitments that they will make and it is fantastic that these simple changes have saved our homebuyers in Kent so much money since the start of the year. “The new system means that homebuyers of a typical property with Barratt Homes worth £260,000 will now pay £4,800 less on stamp duty. This is money that can be put towards the deposit for their new house, spent on new furniture or used for something else entirely.” Earlier this year, Barratt also welcomed the success of Help to Buy, releasing research which revealed that it has helped more than 1,300 families buy a brand new home in Kent alone. The popular Help to Buy scheme which involves a five year equity loan from

the government, also makes buying a brand new home much easier with just a 5% deposit required to get a foot on the ladder. Pam adds: “Thanks to the reduction of stamp duty costs, together with the Help to Buy initiative that is being used by hundreds of our homebuyers in Kent, the upfront costs of buying a new home are lower now than they have been for many years. This is helping to make home ownership a much more affordable reality for many first time buyers throughout Kent, as well as providing a major boost for those looking to move up the ladder and into a bigger family home.”

Tonbridge dragon boaT race The Baldwins Bright Sparks are a mixed team from Baldwins Travel Group and Bright Consortia who are raising money for two worthwhile charities; Abtalifeline and the Hospice in the Weald. Competing in three heats for the fastest time, they won all three of their heats, improving their times in each race and ended up a very credible 6th place out of 21 teams. The Baldwins Bright Sparks were just half a second away from the final, and were the fastest mixed team by a long way. They hope to compete next year and will be rowing for Gold! Team members include: Trevor Ridler, Nick Marks, Chris Marks, Tricia Lester, Sarah Vince, Bettina McCue, Serena Menelaws, Rachel

Kennedy, Carol McMurray, Adelle Vanns, Hisham Mahmoud, Jonathan Whiteley, Rosanna Pearce, Philippa Baines, Chris Wright, Paul Shoosmith, Grant Perry, Peter Lester, Martin Vanns and Alex Marks. It’s not too late to donate: Abtalifeline - www.justgiving.com/ brightconsortia Hospice in the Weald - www.justgiving.com/ baldwins-travel-group1 LOCAL NEWS

86 mmm

House builders providing more tHan just Homes as Huge additional benefits are revealed A new report from the Home Builders Federation, The Economic Footprint of UK House Building – South East, has revealed for the first time the full extent of the contributions that house builders provide as a result of building new homes in the South East. And with the region still not building enough homes compared to its need, the report also highlights just what the South East is missing out on. Last year in the South East, 22,470 homes were started by private house builders, the public sector and housing associations. Based on the findings of the report, the economic footprint of this house building meant that: • 96,621 jobs were supported. • 899 graduate and apprentice positions were created. • 966,210 new trees or shrubs were planted. • £36,109,290 was contributed towards education in the area. • £28,896,420 in extra council tax revenue was generated plus £224,700,000 in other tax contributions. • £21,031,920 towards new open spaces, community spaces or sports facilities, or enhancing existing resources was paid to Local Authorities.

• 5,168 new affordable homes were built. • Payments of £497,553,210 were made to local authorities for further provision of new affordable homes. While house building is increasingly being recognised as a key driver of economic growth, there are still not enough new homes being built in the region. In the South East, this manifests itself as a shortfall of 12,011 homes every year. If the region was to meet this need, the knock-on economic benefits would be: • 51,648 jobs created. • 480 graduate and apprentice positions created. • 516,482 trees and shrubs planted. • £19,301,998 towards education in the area. • £15,446,403 in extra council tax revenue. • £120,112,000 in extra tax contributions. • £11,242,483 contributed to open spaces, community, sport and leisure facilities. • 2,763 affordable homes built. • Payments of £265,964,002 to local authorities for further provision of new affordable homes.

tourism minister visits Kent life Heritage farm parK A spell of unseasonally wet weather failed to dampen the enthusiasm of tourism minister and Kent MP Tracey Crouch when she visited the award-winning Kent Life Heritage Farm Park this month. After her visit the minister tweeted: “Thank you @Kent_Life for a fab tour. Glad to hear visitor numbers are good this summer despite weather etc!” Tracey – who is MP for Chatham and Aylesford – was well prepared for the vagaries of the British summer by donning wellies, mac and hat on her tour of Kent Life. During her visit she was able to pet some of the attraction’s smaller animals in Cuddle Corner. General manager Daniel Gooch says: “The minister was keen to learn what makes Kent Life so special and we were delighted to explain how, as the county’s premier rural heritage experience, we offer a stunning historical record of rural life in the Garden of England, including the last working coal-fired oast house in Britain. “She was fascinated to see our collection of historic buildings, and of course meet some of the LOCAL NEWS

many animals we have on site. The minister was also interested to find out about the work of the many volunteers who help make Kent Life tick.”

mmm 87

Kent ArchAeologicAl Society’S new generAl SecretAry Dr Robert Cockcroft has been appointed Hon. General Secretary of the Kent Archaeological Society, in succession to Peter Stutchbury. Bob, 62, was born in Bradford but moved to Kent 30 years ago. ‘I think it’s one of the most fascinating counties in Britain’, he says. ‘It has a truly extensive history and has been a backwater, a front line, a cultural bridge and an industrial pioneer. There’s nowhere else like it in Britain. ‘I’ve always been interested in history and archaeology.

I’m a keen railway enthusiast and am particularly interested in railway buildings - a neglected area of the subject. I have photographs of many thousands of them and architectural drawings of several hundred’. Bob and his French wife, Muriel, live in Ashford. Their elder son, David, recently obtained his Doctorate in Archaeology at Newcastle University and is now working as a field archaeologist; their younger son Joseph is preparing for his GCSE examinations in Science, Maths, Art and Music. Bob has a Ph D in analytical chemistry from Imperial College and runs a market research company, as does Muriel, and specializes in the analysis and interpretation of quantitative surveys and product tests as diagnostic tools. He then returned to the UK to set up his own consultancy. ‘I’ve researched how people live in quite a number of countries around the world,’ he said. ‘This has sometimes involved living in households to see what they actually do and experience their daily lives – “a fly on the wall approach”, being a better description’.

whiSK SoMeone SPeciAl to ‘PAriS By the SeA’ thiS winter If you’re looking for something unique to buy this Christmas then why not surprise your loved one with a flight on a private plane and a day in ‘Paris by the sea’. Thanks to World Executive Airways’ exclusive private charter packages, you can make someone special feel like a celebrity for the day by whisking them off to the chic resort of Le Touquet, the jewel of the Opale Coast and Northern France’s prime seaside destination. Packages include return transfers from anywhere in London or the South East to London Ashford Airport at Lydd in Kent, Champagne on arrival, a private flight on your chosen aircraft to Le Touquet and transport to and from Le Touquet Airport to the resort’s town centre – all from just £1,995. Meet your Captain for a pre-flight briefing then board your private aircraft, sit back and enjoy the quick hop across the English Channel. With more than 50 restaurants, bars, brasseries and cafés, three golf courses, tennis courts, two casinos, nightclubs, equestrian centre, thalassotherapy health spas and many other activities, a trip to Le Touquet is the perfect treat for anyone who deserves a touch of indulgence. World Executive Airways (a division of LyddAir) is the only airline to offer these packages to Le Touquet, making it a truly unique Christmas gift. LOCAL NEWS

88 mmm

Young gArdeners in the south eAst throW in the troWel Gardeners in the South East are losing their green fingers as nine in ten young people struggle to identify common garden plants, new research reveals. A study of 2,000 Brits aged 25-35 found that time pressures and lack of knowledge meant that the majority struggle when it comes to nurturing their gardens. Nearly three quarters of those living in the region couldn’t identify a tulip when shown a picture of one, while 85 per cent struggled with a geranium. Perhaps that’s why just over 1 per cent of those polled described their gardening skill as ‘very good’. The study by Origin, a British bi-fold and window designer and manufacturer, found that the traditional style of UK gardens in the region is changing as a result, with the new generation of homeowners favouring minimalist gardens with less maintenance. Other plants young residents in the South East can’t get to grips with were jasmine, which stumped three quarters of respondents, while 46 per cent couldn’t spot a fuchsia. Ben Brocklesby, Director at Origin, said: “The

study shows there is a lack of engagement between the younger generation and gardening, a gap in knowledge that is growing. “From naming the common flowers to identifying basic gardening tools and processes, it’s important we don’t lose the connection and passion for our outdoor spaces. “A lack of enjoyment or interest in maintaining a garden usually comes from people not knowing where to start. That’s why nurturing an interest in gardening and showing the rewards that outdoor space can bring is essential, even growing plants in small spaces, such as a window box, can be fun and productive — you just need a little sunshine and some imagination!” While the younger generation are split when it comes to enjoying gardening or not - 52 per cent don’t really enjoy getting green fingers. But the gap in knowledge is what is most likely to take its toll – almost 60 per cent of those who don’t like gardening said it was mainly because they are ‘clueless’ around the topic. In fact, when asked what age people finally get the hang of gardening, respondents said it wasn’t until the age of 40.

finAlists to be Announced sPeciAl netWorKing lunch The first ever finalists from the Café Quality Food and Drink Awards have been announced today, and Simply Ice Cream is a finalist in two categories. Of the hundreds of nominations only 36 products have been shortlisted in 13 categories, so this is a huge achievement for the Ashford based company. Their Christmas Pudding Ice Cream is a finalist in the Christmas Q category, and the multi-award winning Heavenly Honeycomb is shortlisted for the Desserts & Puddings section. Both flavours are previous Great Taste Award winners, with the Honeycomb achieving the highest accolade of 3 Gold Stars. “To be shortlisted for the Café Quality Food and Drink Awards is another boost for the team”, explains company director and founder, Sally Newall, “It has been an exceptionally busy year for the company and this award is testament to our absolute focus on quality driving our success” The Awards ceremony on October 14th will take place at an exclusive networking breakfast in London’s Grosvenor House Hotel. Out of Home magazine and B&I Catering magazine are the trade media partners for the awards, Sponsors include Sacla’, Graphic Packaging International and Da Vinci Gourmet. LOCAL NEWS

panto SEaSon! returns this coming Winter “oh no it isn’t! oh yes it is!”

your essential guide on the county’s top shows Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs The Marlowe Theatre, 27th November – 10th January

Aladdin The Churchill Theatre, 27th November – 3rd January

on’t miss the spectacular, fun-packed, family pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, starring the fabulous Rita Simons (Roxy Mitchell in EastEnders), CBeebies star Phil Gallagher (Mister Maker), everyone’s favourite Dame, Ben Roddy, and the hilarious Lloyd Hollett. Once again, the show will be written by Paul Hendy and produced by Evolution, the same team that brought you last year’s Box Office smash-hit, Aladdin. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs promises top quality entertainment with a brilliant cast, stunning costumes and scenery, and a genuinely funny script. Last year’s pantomime was seen by 90,000 people and tickets are already selling fast for this show, so book now for the funniest and most spectacular show of the year! For more information please call 01227 787787 or visit www.marlowetheatre.com

ritish Soap award-winning Eastenders actor, Scott Maslin stars as Abanazar in this year’s 2015 Churchill Theatre Bromley Pantomime. He will be joined by Channel 5’s Milkshake! Presenter Jen Pringle as Princess Jasmine, and back by popular demand, the legendary Bobby Crush will be Widow Twankey. The cast will be joined by Hi-5 presenter, Luke Roberts as the title role of Aladdin, and British comedian and impressionist Jess Robinson will play the Genie of The Ring. For further details please call 08448 717 620 or visit www.atgtickets.com/venues/the-churchilltheatre-bromley

Peter Pan The Stag Theatre, 5th December – 10th January he successful professional pantomime company Magic Beans Pantomimes present Peter Pan. Following the success of previous pantomimes such as Dick Whittington, Jack and the Beanstalk, Mother Goose, Aladdin, Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood, Magic Beans Pantomimes return to the Stag Theatre for the 2015/16 season to bring you Peter Pan. For further information available please call 01732 450175 or visit www.sevenoakspanto.com

Beauty and the Beast The Central Theatre, 10th December – 3rd January he Central Theatre will present the traditional family pantomime, Beauty and the Beast this Christmas, starring Sue Holderness (Marlene in Only Fools and Horses) as the Wicked Malevolent whose evil plans leave the Prince feeling not quite himself and the beautiful Belle in danger, and X-Factor sensation Stevi Ritchie as Potty Pierre. Beauty and the Beast tells the story of Beauty who becomes the prisoner of a monstrous Beast in return for her father’s freedom, but can she tame the Beast and teach him to love, and be loved in return? For more details please call 01634 338338 or visit www.tickets.medway.gov.uk

PANTO FEATURE

90 mmm

Robin Hood and the Babes In The Woods Woodville Hall, 11th December – 3rd January

Aladdin The Theatre Royal , 12th - 29th December

here’s high jinks, romance and much adventuring in the forest - Sherwood Forest. Yes, it’s ‘Robin Hood’, packed full of action, adventure and an abundance of comedy. Follow the hero as he battles the evil Sheriff of Nottingham to free the land from tyranny, aided by his Merry Men. But there is still time for romance as Robin seeks to win the hand of Maid Marion, though the Sheriff is after her, too (boo!) For more information please call 08442 439 480 or visit www.gravesendpanto.com

argate has been guaranteed its most opulent and eye-catching pantomime ever this Christmas! Being brought to The Theatre Royal by Wicked Productions who have been responsible for sellout shows in Kent for many years. You are invited to ‘Peking’ for a magical carpet ride to the Far East this Festive Season. With laugh-outloud jokes, fabulous costumes, magic and Illusions, special effects, a ‘hilarious’ airborne Genie, sing-along songs, and an astonishing Flying Carpet. So make sure you are part of the fun this Christmas and book tickets for everyone! For further details please call 01843 292795 or visit www.theatreroyalmargate.com

Cinderella Assembly Hall Theatre, 11th December – 3rd January inderella will be making her way to Royal Tunbridge Wells this Christmas. The most magical fairy tale of them all will be spectacularly brought to life through stunning costumes, beautiful sets, real Shetland ponies, the hilarious ugly sisters and amazing special effects. Starring CBBC’s Tracy Beaker Dani Harmer as Cinderella, Jamie Rickers from CITV and Nickoldeon as Buttons and Louise Jamieson (EastEnders, Doctor Who) as Fairy Godmother, this spectacular pantomime is perfect for the whole family! For further information please call 01892 530613 or visit www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

Dick Wittington The Central Theatre, throughout December ick Whittington is this year’s spectacular family pantomime, starring Tina from S Club 7, the legendary Derek Griffiths, Paul Danan from Hollyoaks, Marcquelle Ward from Britannia High, and panto dame David Phipps Davis! With stunning sets and costumes, a fabulous five piece band, and all the laughs and traditions you’d expect from panto. For more information please call 01634 338338 or visit www.tickets.medway.gov.uk

D PANTO FEATURE

Dick Wittington The Orchard Theatre, 12th December – 3rd January oin Dick Whittington, Alice Fitzwarren and the lovable Tommy the Cat on an enchanting pantomime adventure. This dazzling production will be spectacularly brought to life with an abundance of comedy, stunning sets, fabulous costumes and the magic and audience participation you have come to expect from one of Kent’s biggest pantomimes. TV star, actor and comedian Shane Richie will star in Dick Whittington! For more details please call 01322 220000 or visit www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

Peter Pan The Hazlitt Theatre, 26th December – 3rd January oin The Hazlitt Theatre for this year’s amazing pantomime production of Peter Pan! You’ll fly you to Neverland where you’ll join Peter, Tinkerbell, Wendy, John, Michael and the Lost Boys - not to mention Captain Hook! If you believe in magic then you will not be disappointed, as family fun, laughter, and plenty of slap-stick are guaranteed, also a star- studded cast that will have you up on your feet and don’t forget to boo! You can’t beat this family treat so book up for your ride to Neverland today! Further details please call 01622 758611 or visit www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk

what’s on & when National Apple Festival, Brogdale Collections 17th October - 18th October

Joe Stilgoe Live ,White Rock Theatre, Hastings (East Sussex), 30th October

he Biggest and Best Apple Festival is back for 2015 with a display of around 400 apple varieties with the opportunity to ‘try before you buy’. Discover something new and tasty with over a hundred different varieties on offer to buy and take home.

oe Stilgoe is the renaissance man of modern jazz. He has twice topped the UK jazz chart, featured on many radio programmes including 6 appearances on Friday Night is Music Night on BBC Radio 2, The Horne Section on BBC Radio 4, In Tune, Loose Ends and The Chris Evans Breakfast Show among many others. He has played all the major international jazz festivals, had two sell-out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe and appears regularly at Ronnie Scott’s and Crazy Coqs in London. For more information please call 01892 615742 or visit www.honningtonevents.com

Tractor trailer and walking tours of the orchards will be running and the craft and produce village returns to offer you some unique gift ideas. Enjoy live music, local food and entertainment over the whole weekend. Take a miniature train ride to see the farm from a whole new perspective and children can get crafty and have their face painted in the little festival goer’s area. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or are discounted if prepaid online. For more information please call 01795 536250 or visit www.brogdalecollections.org

Broadstairs Fireworks, Viking Bay, 5th November traditional family firework display over Viking Bay (weather permitting). Activities start from 6pm with firework display at 8pm. Children’s funfair, games, entertainment, food and drink, live music from at the bandstand from 6.30pm by ‘The Moments’ and late night opening at Lillyputt Mini Golf. Supported by: Leisure Events, Morellis Ice Cream Parlour, Bandstand Cafe, Lillyputt Mini Golf, Thorley Taverns and Glowman Noveties. For more information please call 01227 700894 or visit www.broadstairsfireworks.co.uk

Wicked Witches of the Wild Wood, Penshurst Place 26th - 30th October new Halloween event this year that is suitable for all the family. Venture into the Wild Wood to join the Wicked Witches for an afternoon of spooky storytelling in cosy bell tents, while gathering around the campfire to toast marshmallows. Suitable for all ages. Activity is included within the admission ticket to the house or gardens. For more information please visit 01892 870307 www.penshurstplace.com

WHAT’S ON AND WHEN

92 mmm

Commando Series, Hever Castle, 14th November ommando Series, a 6km obstacle challenge is an endurance test like no other. Coming to Hever Castle in Kent on Saturday 14th November for the first time ever, Commando Series gives all ages and abilities the opportunity to experience the mud, sweat and pain of real, modern day, commando training, taking on 15 gruelling obstacles over a “wild” terrain course. The endurance obstacle course is endorsed by, national charity partner, the Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund. The event is open to both adults and young recruits (children aged 8+) with the hard core event taking place in the morning and the family friendly event taking place in the afternoon. You decide just how tough you want to be treated though, with the option of selecting “just get me round”, “family friendly”, or “treat me like a commando” at online race entry stage. For more information please call 01892 870739 or visit www.commandoseries.co.uk

Trafalgar Day Dinner, Eastwell Manor, Ashford, 21st October elebrate Trafalgar Day at Eastwell Manor with a four course dinner, including wine, preceded by a reception at 7.00pm at which Rum Cocktails will be served. They are delighted to announce that two guest speakers with very different stories to tell. Kate Williams will concentrate on Emma Hamilton, about whom she has written in detail. David McDine will focus on a Frontline Kent Invicta - Unconquered Kent and will then propose ‘The Immortal Memory’ toast which guests will drink to show respect for the memory of Admiral Lord Nelson and those who fell with him at The Battle of Trafalgar. In line with Naval tradition the port will be passed to the left during the cheese course and will be in your glass to drink that toast. £50 per person (including Wines and Rum Cocktails). If you need to book a cabin for the night, this can be arranged at £90.00 per room including full English Breakfast. For more information call 01233 213020 or visit www.eastwellmanor.co.uk

Family fun - artist-led workshop/drop in activity Guildhall Museum, 26th - 30th October oin in the fun at the Guildhall Museum this October half term as we bring Medway’s connections to the Magna Carta to life through a mix of hands-on crafts (free) and artist-led sessions (£2 per child). Designed for children aged 5-12 and their families. 10.30am - 3.30pm: all sessions are drop-in. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Monday, 26th October - Make a Magna Carta Seal (Free). Tuesday, 27th October - Make your own Magna Carta (Free). Wednesday, 28th October - Magna Carta craft workshop with Wendy Daws £2 per child. Thursday, 29th October - Make a King John Crown (Free). Friday, 30th October - Magna Carta craft workshop with Wendy Daws £2 per child. For more information please call 01634 332900 or visit www.medway.gov.uk/leisurecultureandsport/

localhistoryandarchives/museums/guildhallmuseum.aspx WHAT’S ON AND WHEN

The Addams Family comedy dining Hythe Imperial Hotel, Spa and Golf, 30st October orticia, Gomez, Uncle Fester and Lurch meet and greet your guests in their home, where nothing is as it seems. Be ready to start clicking your fingers. You will be served a sumptuous three course meal whilst four of the best comedy actors in the land of the living entertain you. For more information call 01303 267441 or visit www.hytheimperial.co.uk

mmm 93

Bringing back the Bucks, Stag Theatre, Sevenoaks 30th October ore than thirty years after they stormed charts across the globe with a string of hits, Cheryl, Mike and Jay are once again set to tour the world with a 70-date World Tour to remind everyone that there is more to Cheryl, Mike & Jay formerly of Bucks Fizz than Making Your Mind Up! The band’s original line-up was classic Eurovison, two boys, two girls - a formula established by ABBA, to whom Bucks Fizz were inevitably compared. Having performed together since 2009 when “girl next door” Cheryl Baker and “cheeky pin-up boy” Mike Nolan reunited with “The Raunchy One” Jay Aston, the trio are being joined for their “Paradise Regained Tour” by a fourth vocalist - coincidentally called Bobby. The fourth member of 1981s Eurovision winning line-up was Bobby G. “Paradise Regained” will be their most comprehensive tour since the 80s, with more than 70 dates in the UK, Ireland, Europe and beyond... including Australia, where in spite of not being part of Eurovision territory, Bucks Fizz had a massive following. It will be the first time the band have performed there since 1986. For more information please call 01732 450175 or visit www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk

Jazz, Maidstone Museum and Bentlif Art Gallery 15th October night of jazz music from ‘Strings and Things’ – a five piece band comprising two guitars, two saxophones and a clarinet. The evening will include a delicious two course meal, served at 8pm, including Moroccan Lamb Tagine, tomato, apricot couscous and salad, followed by a Winter Berry Eaton Mess. A vegetarian option will also be available. For more details please call 01622 758611 or visit www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/

94 mmm

Rosemary’s Choice, Eastwell Manor, 9th October osemary Shrager will welcome you with champagne and canapés (chosen

by her) at 7.00pm and then a five course menu selected by Rosemary and prepared and cooked by Head Chef Byron Hayter and his team. Petits fours (again chosen by Rosemary) and coffee complete the evenings dining. For further details please call 01233 213020 or visit www.eastwellmanor.co.uk

She Called Me Mother, Theatre Royal Margate 20th - 21st October itch Lake Productions in association with Tara Arts for Black Theatre Live present She Called Me Mother by Michelle Inniss. Starring Cathy Tyson. Directed by Cara Nolan. “When she gon come? I lookin at de people dem but I can’t see her. She a pretty lookin ting, she does stan’ out amongst these faces dripped in dissatisfaction…” Evangeline is waiting; she has been waiting a long time. She waits for the Black Swan to glide through the station and show her a little warmth and kindness. She waits for a ticket home to Trinidad, the sun, the mango trees, and the street vendors selling curry. She waits for Shirley the daughter she let walk away all those years ago. “I try not to tink about she too much, ‘cause de pain dem thoughts bring it like a heard of buffalo runnin wild in a field, an I beneath dem foot.” Will her daughter ever return to her and can Shirley ever forgive the Mother that let her go? BAFTA and Golden Globe nominated Cathy Tyson is best known for her stage work with the RSC, the Liverpool Everyman and on film in Mona Lisa (1986) starring alongside Bob Hoskins. For details call 01843 292795 or visit www. theatreroyalmargate.com

WHAT’S ON AND WHEN

Crazy Glue, Maidstone, Hazlitt Theatre 3rd October hey’re a happy couple with a car in the garage, a chicken in the pot and a child on the way. But is that enough to make love stick? Crazy Glue is a wordless play about the messy side of marriage told through physical comedy, mime and a 1930s soundtrack. For more information please call 01622 758611 or visit www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/

Autumn fun day, Sevenoaks, 28th October oin Kent Wildlife Trust for some seasonal activities and fun at Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve. The reserve is over 130 acres with five lakes, ponds and islands and woodlands including an area of ancient woodland. It’s a great place to spot birds such as Canada geese, tufted ducks and the elusive kingfisher. Spend the day making autumnal crafts out of pine cones and teasels, go on a woodland themed trail and listen to storytelling brought alive with poetry, songs and rhythm. For further details please call 01732 456407 or visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Canterbury Cathedral open evening 5th October istiors will have the opportunity to try their hand at a number of skilled crafts including applying gold leaf, carving stone, and brass rubbing. Free guided and audio tours will be on offer and there will be visits to the private Chapels, the Bell Tower, the Organ Loft, and the Choir Practice Room. Refreshments will be available in the Chapter House. This year, there will be a special exhibition about important women in the Cathedral’s history. The evening will finish with a concert sung by the Cathedral choristers, followed by Compline. For more details please call 01227 762862 or visit www.canterbury-cathedral.org

mmm 95

Autumn Music Hall, The Criterion 27th - 29th October ast chance to enjoy the autumn season of the Music Hall starring Chairman Paul Harris and his talented ensemble of professional entertainers. It is just like ‘The Good Olde Days’ with a great blend of comedy and song. Ticket price includes a cream tea which will be served during the interval. A 10% discount is available for the Friends of Blue Town Heritage Centre. Coach and group organisers are encouraged to contact the Box Office to discuss their requirements, advance booking is always recommended. For more information call 01795 662981 or visit www.thecriterionbluetown.co.uk

Viking costal trail, Turner Contemporary 25th October f you’re fairly confident on your bike and ready to broaden your cycling horizons, the steady rides are ideal. At a comfortable pace, and possibly with some modest hills along the way, rides take place on mainly quiet roads with plenty of sights along the way. Rides are between 6 and 20 miles long, at a moderate pace of between 7 and 10 miles an hour.

Starting at the iconic Turner Contemporary Gallery, this ride will take you East following the Viking Coastal Trail to the small but beautiful town of Broadstairs, one of Charles Dickens’ former homes, the ride passes directly past his old house. The ride hugs the north Kent coast, with the sea never far out of sight. Whatever the weather this is a beautiful scenic and relaxing ride, but in the sunshine is one of the best rides in Kent. For further details visit www.goskyride.com

The Haunted Dolls House, Sarah Thorne Theatre Company Memorial Theatre, Broadstairs 7th November umpus Theatre Company presents a spine-chilling new play. The Haunted Dolls House - A ghost play by Karen Henson based on the brilliantly creepy ghost story by the master of the genre M R James. Mr Dillett is intrigued by curiosities. When his eye lights on a beautifully decorated, fully furnished dolls’ house in his favourite antique emporium, the shopkeeper is only too eager to sell it to him … for a fair price, of course! A delighted Mr Dillett takes the dolls’ house home with him, unpacks it, sets it up and displays it to its full advantage … but it’s not until the moon is up, the curtains drawn and the lamps are lit that the object of his delight reveals its truly terrifying secret… and embroils Dillett in its ghastly past in a way that he could never have imagined! The Haunted Dolls House promises much, much, more of the same … look into the house … if you dare! For further details call 01843 863701 or visit www.sarahthorne-theatrecompany.co.uk

The Dickens country experience, The Criterion 7th November - 20th December oin Elijah Puddlephat and his nemesis, Mr. Charles Dickens on an exciting adventure back in time. Born and bred in Dickens country, Elijah Puddlephat is Medway’s second most famous novelist. He firmly denies any feelings of jealousy towards Mr. Dickens, describing their relationship as a healthy rivalry. Elijah is thrilled to welcome you all on this fascinating journey visiting some of Dickens’ haunts, houses and literary inspirations. Are you are sitting comfortably? Then let the tour begin. Tours start and finish in historic Rochester and include the villages of Cobham and Cooling, Cobham Hall and Dickens’ last home Gad’s Hill Place in Higham. Tours run every weekend from Saturday, 7th November until Sunday, 20th December 2015. Starting from the Guildhall Museum in Rochester at 10.30am and 2.00pm (except for Dickensian Christmas weekend 5th and 6th December, where there will be only one tour departing at 1pm). Tickets £10 adults £7.50 concessions/child and includes a welcome to Rochester mulled wine and mince pie at the start of the tour. For more information call 01634 338141 or visit www.visitmedway.org

WHAT’S ON AND WHEN

96 mmm

SHARING HER WORDS OF WISDOM

Ali Janes

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

Tarot reading for October birthdays:

Star Signs that fall under October are: Libra (23rd September - 23rd October) and Scorpio(24th October – 22nd November) A typical Libran character likes things to be fair and balanced in all aspects of their lives. They can be very easy to get on with as long as you don’t mind making decisions as sometimes it takes them far too long to come to a conclusion. The great side to these characters is that the decisions that they make are usually the right ones as they are careful and can look at every angle beforehand. A typical Scorpion character is intense when in love. They will sting first if they feel insecure or jealous and they tend to react first and think things over afterwards. This character is a loyal partner but they have to be the one calling the shots. They can be judgemental and things are either black or white emotionally. If they don’t like you then they don’t usually change their mind. LOVE Libra - There seems to be a game of chase with someone who only seems to want attention and none of the commitment or true connection. It is very confusing and it hurts to think that they may be doing this deliberately. Maybe they are just as confused as yourself and a little open conversation will ease the situation. Scorpio - A time to lighten up and not take love and emotions too seriously. Nothing good ever comes from putting people on a pedestal so it’s time to be realistic about the people around you and realise that they are actually not perfect, no more than you are. We all make mistakes and the best way to deal with this is to laugh it off even if it’s at your own expense. Finances / Work Libra - I see decorating or chaos in your home at the moment, like you are organising and taking charge of those jobs that we all keep putting off. You will be taking on challenges also in work / finances at the right time. It’s time to be focused in your home life and in your financial life. Organisation is the key to success. Scorpio - Someone new is going to play a very important role in your life at this time. I can see travel plans that will take you to a place that you have never been before and there you will receive new information that will open a door in your financial / work life. Someone in authority will give you a great idea for your future security and you will be very pleased that you met them.

TAROT READINGS

elebrities who also share October birthdays:

Kate Winslet 5th October

Simon Cowell 7th October

Katy Perry 25th October

OctoberHoroscopes Capricorn 22nd Dec – 20th Jan Love/Family: You are becoming more enlightened in your emotional life. You are looking far beyond the words that people use and more at what was meant behind them. It’s refreshing but also worrying at times as you may have to watch what you say in return. Work/Finances: An important meeting / appointment will make you feel excited and enthusiastic but this is short lived as on the way out you will be feeling like it was a waste of time and you would have been better off doing it yourself or looking into it yourself. Aries 21st March – 20th April Love/Family: Your past or your childhood has taught you many things in life that you now use in everyday life. I can see that you have huge lessons that you are now able to pass down to your family / friends. This is exactly how it is around you now. You know what true love is and you also know what rejection feels like. Work/Finances: You are looking at life in a very black and white way and you are also looking at important documents / letters / contracts that you need to address and send off or reply to. I can see that there is a lack of ﬁnances or you have overspent but this may be just the time of year. I can see that you need to be creative if you need to spend more money. Cancer 22nd June – 23rd July Love/Family: You have been holding onto someone or something in life that has kept you feeling trapped. You are ready to change gear to a faster speed, this does not necessarily mean that you are ready to move on completely but to let go of some of the emotional pain linked to this issue. Work/Finances: You are going to stand your ground and not back down at this time and this is going to make you feel better about life and more in control now. I can see that you are protective of a new plan linked to money / work. It’s at the early stages and you still have some sorting out to do. You will succeed if you carry on being this careful within this situation. Libra 24th Sept – 23rd Oct Love/Family: You will be searching for some time and wish to gain some tranquillity in your life at this time. It’s very important for you to either take a long drive or to chill out somewhere calm to catch up on your thoughts and feelings. You will be opening yourself up to some deep past emotions to someone that you love and care about very much. Work/Finances: Learning new skills or developing old ones which will then make you money or bring you joy and happiness which you need in your life at this time. I can see you looking into things in more detail and making plans to further your knowledge either with a teacher or you will do your own research. You will not be very open with telling too many people about your plans to learn though.

Aquarius 21st Jan – 19th Feb Love/Family: Trust is the key to happiness at this time and there is someone close to you who is making things difficult with not being very trustworthy or not trusting you. I can see needy behaviour and confusion over some words that were used. Work/Finances: A large amount of money is around you at this time and there is a character close to you who is dithering about letting you have it. I can see that you are losing your patience and you will soon have to use other tactics to achieve justice in this matter. There is someone close to this situation who is stirring things up and making you look bad, you will need to find out who this person is and what they have to gain in doing this. Taurus 21st April – 21st May Love/Family: You are getting the right balance back within your personal or emotional life at this time as you have felt a little taken for granted before. You are looking now for someone new to enter your life to give you a boost of confidence. This doesn’t have to be someone on a romantic level but they need to bring you out of your shell and in return you have so much to offer them too. Work/Finances: A character that is funny and charming is around you at this time and they are bringing with them a feeling of happiness and fun. This person may be connected to you via work / finances but they have a great sense of humour and you could spend time with them outside of this area. Leo 24th July – 23rd Aug Love/Family: You believe that we should all go back to old fashioned principles of looking after your partner and your partner looking after you. You like to do this and you like to be made to feel secure and this is all you want from life really. You are a very home loving person who cares deeply for others. Work/Finances: Contracts and documents are being filled in around you at this time and you are totally aware that this will then change your life. You have been emotionally worried about a person who is making things difficult for you as they do not understand that you are trying to change your life for the better by making improvements. Scorpio 24th Oct – 22nd Nov Love/Family: You are getting ready to go someone nice and I can see you shopping for clothes or for something that links you to travelling. I can see that you need this freedom and this tranquillity in your life. You are wondering who will come with you on this trip or journey as you don’t want to experience this alone. I can see that you will pick the right person and all will be well. Work/Finances: A character close to you is sulking at this time and no matter how much other people do for them it’s never enough. You are getting very tired of their child like behaviour and there is a lack of patience around you because of them.

mmm 97

Pisces 20th Feb – 20th Mar Love/Family: There is an independence about you that is emerging more and more and you like being on your own or chilling out and being in the still energy. You have got to know yourself a great deal over the past few weeks as you have asked yourself some very intense personal questions about how you react to other people when in love or when you are in an emotional situation. Work/Finances: A strong minded business person is making their way towards you with a plan on how to work together or pull ﬁnancial resources together. There is a strong connection between the two of you and a history of friendship or togetherness. I can feel that you know each other very well. This person has a good idea and you like the sound of it.

Gemini 22nd May – 21st June Love/Family: Someone is in your life right now that just understands you and makes you feel whole. This person is someone who is able to unlock you from your past existence in a positive way making you feel better about yourself and more confident in your own ability to make your own decisions. Work/Finances: You have met someone new in you financial / work life as well or this person links to both personal and work. I can see a new ambition arising from a casual conversation and this will turn out to be very beneficial in your future financially / work wise. Virgo 24th Aug – 23rd Sept Love/Family: You won’t be manipulated and taken for granted by anyone including people that you love very much and you are being made to feel guilty for things that don’t even involve you. You have found happiness in your own life and you have been made to feel guilty because of it. How will you handle these negative people? Maybe it’s time to stand up for yourself! Work/Finances: : There is a great deal of money around you but it doesn’t feel like its staying as it feels like this money has a purpose. You will receive it and then it will go through you to someone else but this feels good as it has been part of a plan that is now able to take root. I see a holiday or journey that will bring happiness. Sagittarius 23rd Nov – 21st Dec Love/Family: You will be removing some people and obstacles in your life. You are looking to see what changes are going to be made in the name of love. You have someone close to you who has an important announcement and all attention will be on them. Work/Finances: Time to take that leap of faith and go for it. You are rushing ahead at this point and there are opportunities to take things even further which is very exciting. You are no longer holding back as everything is shining brightly now and it’s all lined up and looking good.

HOW TO AVOID

the winter blues NEARLY A QUARTER OF PEOPLE IN THE SOUTH EAST

PLAN A HOLIDAY TO BEAT THE WINTER BLUES

s UK temperatures continue to stay low – and the pound remains strong against the Euro - some Brits may be thinking about grabbing some winter sun. According to new research from the Ukash Travel Money Prepaid MasterCard that’s certainly true for those living in the South East, with 23% planning a trip to a sunny destination for a winter break. However South East residents may have good reason to book some winter sun, almost threequarters admit to suffering from the winter blues according to the Ukash research. Just 28% of those in the region said they don’t suffer from the winter blues, although they do appear to be happier than their London counterparts, with just 14% of those in the Capital saying they don’t get the winter blues.

The Ukash research also reveals some of the tactics used to combat the winter blues. 66% of Londoners sleep more in the winter. 50% of people in the South East said the same, although only 41% of people in Yorkshire and the West Midlands resort to their duvets in the winter months. The Welsh scored the most across the UK when it comes to eating more to combat the winter blues, with 68% upping their food intake over the winter months. Yorkshire comes in second at 59% whilst 57% of those living in the East Midlands admitted to comfort eating. Whether booking a winter break or a big holiday in the summer months, the Ukash Travel Money card is the safe, easy and secure way to manage travel money. With access to the best FX rates, no fees for usage and free ATM withdrawals, Ukash helps holiday spending money go further.

HOME IMPROVEMENTS LTD PVCu, Aluminium Top Quality Part L Compliant ‘A’ Rated Kommerling PVCu Windows Local Family Run Business Established in 2005 

