So Magazine June 2022 by One Media

CALENDAR

A date for your diary

We get revved up for the return of the Soapbox Stars Kart Race

CULTURE

Just for laughs

Discover why comedian Paul Merton is so happy to return to Tunbridge Wells

FOOD & DRINK

A vine old time

Experience a taste of the delicious delights to sip and savour at Balfour

FACE VALUE

AESTHETICIAN MARYNA COLE AND SURGEON DARRYL COOMBES TELL US ABOUT THEIR EXCITING NEW BUSINESS VENTURE June 2022

Welcome

Editor’s Letter 6 8 11

Culture vulture: What’s on where this month

elcome to your June edition of SO magazine. This month we turn the cover spotlight on local resident and aesthetician Maryna Cole who has launched her own specialist skincare clinic in Warwick Park. Turn to page 11 to discover more about it as well as her exciting collaborative work with renowned surgeon Darryl Coombes. What the pair are doing is truly revolutionary – and it’s all happening here in Tunbridge Wells! Elsewhere in the issue we round up the best social events that have taken place over the last month or so including a fundraiser for Ukraine and another for Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre (P17 & 21). We also talk to comedian and Have I Got News for you panelist Paul Merton (p25) about his fun and fast-paced Impro Chums show which he’ll be bringing to the Assembly Hall on June 10. The twice-postponed Soapbox Race, which takes place in Dunorlan Park with TV chef Rosemary Shrager as its host, finally returns on June 25. It will see businesses and schools in pole position as they race their individual karts to raise money for a host of local charities including Hospice in the Weald. Turn to page 31 to find out more. We also talk to talented artist Keith Siddle (p32) about his passion for painting and his involvement with South East Open Studios which is happening from June 3-19. And we meet local fashionista Victoria Genevieve who

Back to Black: Paul Dunton previews this month’s music events including the return of The Black Deer

tells us all about her gorgeous new styling suite at One Warwick Park (p46) – and how you can be part of it. In addition to our usual food & drink, travel, beauty and interiors, we also have a chat with Rachel Hunton about her new candle making business (p50). The former teacher tells us why she swapped academic lessons for creating some truly exquisite votives which are sure to light up anyone’s life. Finally, we want to wish The Queen a very happy Platinum Jubilee – and we hope all our readers have fun celebrating it... We hope you enjoy the edition!

Eileen Leahy Editor SO magazine Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @somagazines

DESIGN David Sexton

PHOTOGRAPHY Cover: David Bartholomew Additional: Emily Harding PUBLISHED BY

17 19 21 23 25

Sweet charity: Ukraine fundraiser held by local producers to help those displaced

On the menu: Shooting Stars apprentices host competition-themed dinners By George: The Spa Hotel welcomes guests to raise money for the Pickering Drop-In Cancer centre

On the money: Grovewood Wealth Management discuss clever finance Just for laughs: Comedian Paul Merton on his new Impro Chums show which is coming to the Assembly Hall

Love Where You Live: Sarah Raine of Colley Raine & Associates on where she likes to eat, drink and relax in Tunbridge Wells

Join the Green party: Jess Gibson of the TN Card speaks to the owners of The Green Duck Emporium and café

Tel: 01892 779650 www.timeslocalnews.co.uk

eileen.leahy@onemediauk.co.uk

June 2022

Two’s company: Local aesthetician Maryna Cole and surgeon Darryl Coombes tell us about their new partnership

Issue 164 SALOMONS ESTATE Tunbridge Wells Kent TN3 0TG

EDITOR Eileen Leahy

contents

Artistic approach: Painter Keith Siddle on his amazing aquaticinspired work and involvement in South East Open Studios

37 39 41

Menopause matters: Botanica’s Naomi Murray on alternative HRT remedies for women

Style queen: Victoria Genevieve on her new styling suite at One Warwick Park

Taste the difference: We discover why The Blue Anchor has won Pub of the Year for the South East A vine old time: Why Balfour winery is a class act

Because he’s worth it: Where to celebrate Father’s Day

49 50 53 54 55 57 58

workshops

Beach ready: Natalie Piacun on how to look good in the sunshine All fired up: Rachel Hunton tells us all about her new candle making

Blues for you: How to get the coastal look chez vous this summer

EDITORIAL Karen Martin Naomi Murray Tim Sykes

Rosy outlook: Celebrating Hever in bloom this June

Outside edge: Tim Sykes of Garden Proud on how to create visual interest with ornamental grasses

SALES advertising@onemediauk.co.uk

PRINTED BY: Mortons Print

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 relating to advertising or editorial. The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit.

31 32

The race is on: Don’t miss the much-anticipated Soapbox Race happening in Dunorlan Park on June 25

43 45 46

Take a break: Karen Martin on how to have a stress-free holiday

Lost weekend: Experience a trip to Careys Manor in the New Forest

Drive of your life: Test drive the new Lexus ES

SO Magazine | June 2022 | 5

Calendar

THE STAGE IS SET...

Photograph © Louise Roberts

Hever Castle’s popular Theatre Festival summer programme is back for 2022. As usual there’s a wealth of musical acts, operas, films and live comedy and theatre to enjoy over the summer months until the end of August. Dubbed the West End in the Garden of England, this year’s line-up is as diverse as ever and includes A Celebration of Father Ted (June 19), Rapunzel (July 27) and James Bond Concert Spectacular (August 5). Find out more at www.hever festival.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW?

Our edit of the most entertaining events happening this June A LITTLE BIT COUNTRY Black Deer, Kent’s local Americana festival makes it return after a hiatus of three years due to the pandemic to Eridge Park on the weekend of June 17-19. The 2022 line-up boasts the Belfast Cowboy himself, Van Morrison and winner of NME’s 2015 Best Solo Artist Jake Bugg. In 2019, The Guardian newspaper voted Black Deer Best New Small Festival and it’s easy to see why given there’s so much to see and do at this event including kids’ activities, Live Fire cooking demos, classic US car displays and so much more. To book tickets visit blackdeerfestival.com 6 | June 2022 | SO Magazine

JOIN THE GREEN PARTY

DID YOU KNOW? Jake Bugg has just released his fifth studio album, Saturday Night, Sunday Morning and his headline set at Black Deer 2022 will be his first festival appearance this year

TWODS put on their performance of Shrek the Musical at the Assembly Hall from June 14-18. As you’d expect from the cast and crew at TWODS this will be super fun, highly charged and animated event with great acting, singing and dancing. Fun for all the family there are matinee performances on Wednesday and Saturday. For more info and to book tickets visit www. assemblyhall theatre.co.uk

Her Majesty was born at 2.40am on April 21 in 1926 and when she was crowned Queen in 1953 the event attracted an audience of over 20 million

WATER WORLD Located on the border of Kent and East Sussex, Bewl Water is the largest reservoir in the South East, boasting 770 acres of water. Enjoy a takeaway coffee from The Waterfront Café while watching your little ones explore the Adventure Playground or why not have a go splashing around on the Aqua Park or cruising around the mountain bike trails? If you’re looking for something more relaxing, fishing is now open, and the water has a history of large trout and pike as well as perch. For more information and to make a booking, visit www.bewl water.co.uk

LET’S CELEBRATE Salomons Estate is hosting a special family picnic on Saturday June 4 from 12pm to 6pm to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Guests are invited to go along to the historic estate in order to enjoy a wonderful afternoon feasting on a delicious traditional British picnic (Adult Picnics £19.50

per person Children’s Picnic £10.50 per child) and enjoy lots of games and treasure hunts. One Warwick Park will also be hosting a series of special celebratory regal afternoon teas from June 1-5 in order to toast Her Majesty. Visit www.salomons-estate. com and www.onewarwick park.co.uk for more info

Calendar

FAIR PLAY The ever-popular Wealden Times Fair returns to Hole Park in Rolvenden. Running from June 9 – 11 there will be a plethora of lifestyle and foodie brands present including Alsop & Walker cheese, Ladies Who Lunch jewellery, Fine Grind coffee emporium and Anno gin distillers. The Hole Park venue is the ideal setting for this three-day fair as you can also tour around its glorious gardens and see its stunning seasonal flowers in bloom. For tickets and further info visit www.wealdentimes-fair. co.uk

STRICTLY SENSATIONAL Keeep Dancing! is a brand new spectacular show featuring Strictly 2020 finalist and EastEnders star Maisie Smith, together with Strictly 2021 semi-finalist and CBBC Presenter Rhys Stephenson. The pair will be joined by the incredible Strictly professional dancers Neil Jones, Gorka Marquez, Jowita Przystal and Nancy Xu for an evening of cha cha, salsa and samba. And, as an extra special treat for Strictly fans, live music will be performed by The Wanted’s Max George, who competed in the 2020 series of the smash hit BBC One show. Running at the Assembly Hall on June 22 this is one not to be missed for all dance fans! www.assembly halltheatre.co.uk

GROOMBRIDGE PLACE ESTATES Groombridge Place will also be celebrating the Platinum Jubilee with its Queen of Hearts events which encourages children to dress up as Queens – or Kings – in order to receive a sweet treat from the house’s very own Queen of Hearts who, rumour has it, has come all the way from Wonderland! During the rest of the month there will also be the chance to explore the gorgeous grounds, get lost in the woods, spy the estate’s beautiful peacocks of have a fun time in the adventure playground! Visit groombridgeplace.com for more information and to book tickets.

A ROYAL CELEBRATION Penshurst Place will - quite literally - be putting out the bunting in honour of The Queen’s 70 years on the throne. In addition to a series of fun flag making courses which will run over the Bank Holiday, there will also be a mini exhibition of the stately home’s personal collection of royal memorabilia. On Thursday June 2 items from the 2nd Viscount De L’Isle’s private archive will be on display for a year to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee. The exhibition contains personal coronation memorabilia collected by 1st Viscount De L’Isle who, as a member of the privy council, was present when HM The Queen took her oath of office in 1952, before attending her coronation the following year. In addition to all this, the Tudor Songbook will be entertaining visitors with a selection of Tudor love songs in the Baron’s Hall on Thursday June 2; while the ever-popular queens of Henry VIII from Tudor Legacies will be in the gardens on Saturday, June 4 between 11am and 4pm. On Sunday June 5 Aardvark Productions will be presenting a right royal tale to life. For more information and ticket prices visit www.penshursplace.com.

NATIONAL TREASURE Nestled in the Weald of Kent, Sissinghurst Castle was once the home to poet and writer, Vita Sackville-West and her diplomat and author husband, Harold Nicholson. The stunning National Trust property was beautifully described by Vita in one of her works: “The heavy golden sunshine enriched the old brick with a kind of patina, and made the tower cast a

long shadow across the grass, like the finger of a gigantic sundial veering slowly with the sun. Everything was hushed and drowsy and silent but for the coo of the white pigeons.” The historic house’s famed gardens should now be coming into bloom and the café is always a great spot for a coffee and delicious snack. Find out more at www. nationaltrust.org.uk

BLUES FOR YOU

DID YOU KNOW? After leaving the band Squeeze, Jools Holland presented Channel 4’s The Tube with the late Paula Yates. He’s also done a staggering 60 series of Later with Jools Holland on BBC2

Jools Holland and his 19-piece Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, which consists of a pianist, organist, drummer, three female vocals, guitar, bass guitar, two tenor saxophones, two alto saxophones, baritone saxophone, three trumpets, and three trombones, rocks into town on June 8 and 9. Performing at the Assembly Hall with special guests Eddi Reader and Ruby Turner, it promises to be a really fantastic event as the orchestra plays a host of feel good rhythm & blues – both classic and contemporary. To book tickets visit www. assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

POETRY IN MOTION The Tunbridge Wells Poetry Festival runs from June 5-26 and returns for 2022 with a varied programme of workshops and events at venues such as Trinity Theatre, Even Flow, Ashdown Forest and The Forum. This year’s festival has

been expanded by a week in order to fit it all in. Opening on Sunday June 5 with a taster event as part of Unfest, a full three weeks of community-based ‘poetry for all, big or small’ will then follow. See www. twpoetryfestival.com

SO Magazine | June 2022 | 7

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Music

Festival fever… The Queen’s Jubilee celebrations UNFEST RETURNS After a Covid-enforced hiatus of two and the return of Unfest and years, the popular Unfest Music & Arts returns. Venues hosting various Black Deer means there is plenty Festival events include The Tunbridge Wells to look forward to this month says Forum, The Sussex Mews, The George The Sussex Arms, The Royal Oak our music guru Paul Dunton Pub, Pub, Sugar Bush Record Store and The

Fonthill Tap Room located next the The George Pub. Unfest runs across the Jubilee Weekend from June 2 to June 5 offering an array of music, street theatre, food, spoken word and DJs. It aims to showcase the town’s independent spirit: its music venues, its businesses, its music and art - with four days of free entry to see the best of what is being created and hosted in Tunbridge Wells. Forum owner Jason Dormon is very much looking forward to hosting the long-runnig festival once again. He told us: “The Forum, Local and Live, Word Up, Tunbridge Wells Pride and Applause Rural Touring come together to curate this free annual music and arts festival. With an eclectic mix of local and regional artists please come down and discover some of the wonderful talent we have in the area. You can find out who is performing where via all the aforementioned venue’s social media channels and The Forum website www.twforum.co.uk

The Orange Circus

Noble Jacks

Paul Dunton

Music Editor Follow Paul @PaulDuntonmusic

The Ackerleys

ROYAL SEAL OF APPROVAL

The Spa Hotel is hosting its ‘Jubilee Picnic’ on Sunday June 5 and it will feature live music from popular local acts including Marie White, The Frampton Sisters, Paul Crisp, Elliott Graham and my own orchestra. The event will be set in the hotel’s idyllic grounds. Tickets which include include luxury hampers are available via the hotel’s website www.spahotel.co.uk

AMERICANA COMES TO TOWN

Following postponements in 2020 and 2021, Black Deer Festival returns to its spiritual home at Eridge Park. The 2022 event runs from June 17 – 19 and this year promises to be the best yet say its organisers. Americana pioneers Wilco – who play their only UK date of 2022 at the festival – are on the bill along with Mike Scott’s legendary The Waterboys and iconic Irish singersongwriter legend Van Morrison. Country music is well-represented with emerging heroes such as Courtney Marie Andrews, The Dead South and Pokey Lafarge all signed up to play the deer park. While the roots heroes that represent the very best of Americana’s broad church like Drive-By Truckers, Imelda May, Jake Bugg, Foy Vance and The Milk Carton Kids will also be appearing live. In the most recent announcement, iconic indie legends JAMES have been added to the line-up. And the good news is many local acts have been chosen to perform at this year’s festival including Noble Jacks, Isabella Coulstock, David Migden & The Twisted Roots, Dull Knife, Luke Jackson, James Kirby, The Orange Circus, Hobo & The Hippies, Rattlesnake Hearts, David Mumford and more. Full details of the festival and tickets are available from www.blackdeerfestival.com SO Magazine | June 2022 | 9

Cover feature

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10 | June 2022 | SO Magazine

Cover feature

“Our partnership is mutually beneficial”

Aesthetician Maryna Cole recently launched her specialist skincare clinic at One Warwick Park. Here she tells us about the important work she is now doing in collaboration with the internationally renowned surgeon Darryl Coombes…

s collaborations go, the one between internationally revered maxillofacial surgeon Darryl Coombes and talented aesthetician Maryna Cole is certainly a fascinating - and groundbreaking - one. Surgeon Darryl Coombes originally trained as a dentist in 1993 before studying medicine and qualifying as a medical doctor in 2000. In 2008 he was appointed as a maxillofacial surgeon in 2008. He worked for the NHS for the next ten years acquiring a broad experience in major reconstructive facial surgery for trauma and

cancer before going independent in 2018. He currently works one day a week at the Nuffield Hospital here in Tunbridge Wells, dividing the rest of his time at his clinics in Worthing, East Grinstead and Harley Street in London. Maryna is a qualified beautician and business entrepreneur who ran the Tunbridge Wells branch of Champneys and then The Royale Retreat for over a decade, before retraining and qualifying as an aesthetician. She now has her clinic, Retreat Aesthetics, at One Warwick Park and is committed to offering her clients the most exclusive, sustainable and resultsdriven cosmeceutical treatments

available on the market, courtesy of her partnership with the Vivace brand and expert training. So far, so different then in terms of each of their professions but after a serendipitous meeting a year ago, Darryl and Maryna discovered their individual work offered exciting and positive mutual benefits. And as a result they have now joined forces... “I had always wanted to provide my patients with the opportunity of having some post-operative skin care,” explains Darryl as the three of us sit down to chat following our SO cover photo shoot. “I’m a qualified maxillofacial surgeon so I have always worked

“I felt that there was a missing link between my facial procedures and the necessary aftercare required”

on the face, head and neck but I felt that there was a missing link in terms of ensuring the work I carried out had the necessary aftercare to ensure the best longterm results.” A lot of Darryl’s clients who have undergone cosmetic facial surgery are now offered a totally unique post-procedure service at Maryna’s clinic. So how did they meet? “I had the privilege of treating Maryna’s mother,” smiles Darryl. “She’d had a facelift and some other aesthetic facial surgery. Maryna and I got chatting about what she did and over the course of about a year we talked some more and eventually decided to collaborate. “I discovered Maryna was doing regenerative aesthetic skincare treatments at her clinic and to me that was all very exciting.” SO Magazine | June 2022 | 11

Cover feature

comments Darryl who, as well as Maryna explains the reason she treating private clients, informs me decided to retrain and qualify as an aesthetician was precisely because she that he still carries out treatments of skin cancers of the face, head and wanted to specifically work with neck for the NHS. cosmetic surgeons - so it would seem “I mainly do rejuvenating facial they were destined to meet. surgery now and created my own “After working in the beauty facelift, The Apex in 2016. It is very treatment world for over ten years I wanted to retrain in aesthetics. I spent unique and tailormade for each patient. The key thing is though until a long time doing my research in I met Maryna there was nothing terms of finding the best out there that would be products out there to classed as a restorative enhance my work and I treatment post my eventually discovered “Until I met work. So she really the Vivace Maryna there was the missing piece Experience; an was nothing out there of the jigsaw.” award-winning, that would be classed The restorative revolutionary as a post-operative treatment patients treatment which uses restorative receive is courtesy of micro needling and treatment” the aforementioned radio frequency to Vivace microneedling tighten and brighten machine that Maryna has ageing or traumatised skin. invested in for her One Warwick “It took me about a year to Park clinic Retreat Aesthetics. source this treatment that would be “I have now probably treated a both sustainable and regenerative,” dozen of Darryl’s patients but I also continues Maryna. have many of my own clients who She says she was trained by expert come to me because they know me Dr Shameema Damree who not only from my wellness and spa background taught Maryna about the Vivace and like the way I have fused the technique but also the benefits of beauty side with the revolutionary. using powerful exosome ingredients “A lot of them don’t want to which stimulate the skin cells to produce up to 600% more collagen in undergo anything invasive or that has a huge amount of downtime but they treated areas and boosts elastin levels still want to see impressive results and by 300%. working with Vivace gives them this. “That’s what really struck me. “The technique stimulates a You’ve been really careful about patient’s collagen and elastic choosing the right products,”

WHAT IS THE

The Vivace Experience is a multi-award winning contouring, tightening and brightening treatment which combines micro needling and radio frequency. It has been specifically designed to minimise any discomfort. Thirty six ultra-fine goldplated needles penetrate the dermis, delivering the highest radio frequency power available to stimulate collagen production. It’s a really effective scientific skincare treatment which gives really good immediate results. “It is very clever because it can detect specific skin issues, such as wrinkles, pore issues and scarring,” says Maryna. The Vivace experience:

VIVACE EXPERIENCE? 12 | June 2022 | SO Magazine

Firstly a numbing cream is applied all over the face. After it has set Maryna gets to work with the revolutionary Vivace Experience needle equipment. The gentle microneedling session lasts around 30 minutes. Maryna also works around the jawline area to encourage skin tightening and lifting. Next a regenerative exosome serum is put all over the face. This stimulates the skin cells to produce up to 600% more collagen in treated areas and boosts elastin levels by 300% thereby increasing the thickness of the dermis. Finally an exosome rich mask is applied. It has holes for the eyes and airways and helps to reinforce all the good work done by the Vivace treatment. This is left on for around 20 minutes and then Maryna works in any residue left. The initial results are impressive with the jawline feeling firmer and skin far more radiant…

Cover feature

Darryl Coombes CV: Darryl Coombes is known amongst his peers and patients for his outstanding surgical skills, artistic eye and his holistic friendly approach to his practice. Mr Coombes qualified in both dentistry and medicine at King’s College, University of London in 1993 and 2000 respectively. He obtained his specialist training in oral and facial plastic surgery at major UK NHS centres throughout England, including the world-renowned Queen Victoria Hospital in East Grinstead, where he was appointed as a consultant in 2008. Mr Coombes has a broad experience in major reconstructive facial surgery for trauma and cancer. Mr Coombes has developed an international reputation in the field of facial, head and neck plastic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery worldwide. He performs and trains other surgeons on a wide range of specialties including rhinoplasty and head and neck skin cancer.

MR COOMBES IS A MEMBER OF VARIOUS ORGANISATIONS INCLUDING:

British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Fellow of The Royal College of Surgeons of England Fellow of The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh

TO CONTACT MR COOMBES:

ALL IN THE DETAIL: Maryna’s work is so effective due to the Exosome Regenerative Complex : The Next Generation Regenerative Aesthetics / Facial Rejuvenation she uses. Dr Shameema Damree who trained Maryna in its efficacy explains its benefits: “Exosomes are an ideal maintenance treatment post facelift and other facial aesthetic plastic surgical procedures. The exosome regenerative complex will accentuate the results of your facelift by rejuvenating the skin of the face and neck. Exosomes have the ability to regenerate the skin by stimulating the skin cells to produce up to 600%

more collagen and 300% more elastin, thereby increasing the thickness of the dermis. The results of the treatment are improvement in the skin elasticity and an overall firming effect. In addition, exosomes have the ability to downregulate the melanocytes (pigment cells in the skin) to correct pigmentation and create a more radiant and flawless skin, reduce any skin inflammation and redness. The Exosome Regenerative Complex has a high concentration of hyaluronic acid, growth factors, amino acids and minerals to provide intense hydration and anti-ageing benefits.”

production and boasts long lasting results which are better seen within two to three weeks. We do this by addressing various concerns. These include pigmentation and scarring to skin texture and pore minimising.” Maryna explains. “Every patient is different and the course I offer for Darryl’s postoperative clients promotes amazing regenerative aftercare treatment. We’re talking about improving the skin’s quality, improving the contour of the jaw and healing scarring if it occurs.” Darryl adds: “If a patient develop post-op adverse scarring or hypertrophic scarring Maryna can really help correct this.” Maryna further explains that whether it’s a course of treatments for Darryl’s facelift patients or for her long-standing clients who just want to maintain and improve their skin condition, another key bonus is they are all pretty much pain-free. “My treatments are ideal for those people who are afraid of needles – or who don’t want injectables. Another big advantage to what we do here is that there is very little downtime.” Would Darryl like to see more aestheticians do this type of post-

01892 531 111 info@darrylcoombes.com

SO Magazine | June 2022 | 13

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Cover feature

operative work? “Oh definitely,” he says. “In fact, I’d say it’s almost essential and so thank goodness for Maryna because this is what I’ve wanted for my patients for so long. Getting further support and fine tuning of the surgical treatment I carry out courtesy of Maryna is beneficial in so many ways.” So what made Darryl transfer over to this particular area of cosmetic

“We are working on launching a similar set up in Harley Street”

surgery? “Well, a lot of the work I did for the NHS was for facial deformity but it still had an aesthetic air to it. So I guess it’s reapplying those techniques I used there to my facelift patients. Surgery like this is like where artistry meets science and that’s the crossover I really like.” The highly experienced surgeon goes on to say that the industry as a whole has come a long way over the past few decades. “Things are subtler now – and people don’t want to be in hospital for a night or two. My Apex facelift makes people look refreshed – and not like they’ve actually had any surgical work done!” Darryl adds that it is mainly women aged between 40-60 who have had

SKIN DEEP: Darryl met Maryna (above) after he treated her mother for the Apex facelift last year

the Apex procedure done but that some men have had it too. “The thing about the Apex is that it’s almost tailormade for each patient. The procedure takes around 90 mins and that’s what patients want: a swift procedure with minimal recovery time. It’s also done under local anaesthetic and therefore patients are completely conscious. There are no bandages and it can also be combined with upper eye lid surgery - blepharoplasty - that’s one of the popular combinations I do and that only takes around two hours.” Darryl is also a specialist in mouth, jaw, ear and nose surgery too and performs these procedures at all of his clinics. What does he enjoy most about his work? “Seeing my patients after their surgery,” he responds without hesitating. “The confidence they have afterwards is what makes me happy. There is that thing of being potentially able to change someone’s life…but I also enjoy the challenge of it and giving people the best results possible.” And now that his and Maryna’s collaboration is proving successful the

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY: Maryna will be doing the following shows in London : June 17 & 18: FACE Conference - O2 Arena, Greenwich London

CONTACT RETREAT AESTHETICS One Warwick Park Hotel 1 Warwick Park Royal Tunbridge Wells TN2 5TA Free consultation – please call Maryna Cole on +44(0)7946 081410 Appointments available: Monday-Friday: 9am – 3pm retreataesthetics.com

duo say they have ambitious plans for the future. “We are working on launching a similar set up in Harley Street,” reveals Maryna. “The thing I like about working with Darryl is that he’s very down to earth and that’s important to me. He is also genuine and has integrity and will therefore turn people down if they don’t need something,” she smiles. “You’ve got to have a reason for undergoing cosmetic surgery,” adds Darryl. “You certainly don’t want to operate if people don’t need treatment.” Before we leave Darryl tells me that as well as looking at offering Maryna’s post-surgical facial treatments elsewhere in the country, he is also looking into training other surgeons to do the Apex facelift. “We have future plans to train surgeons in this technique and so we will probably start a course next year.” They’re clearly both excited about this revolutionary time in skincare – and it’s been exciting to share their story as they’re the ones making it all happen right here in Tunbridge Wells… SO Magazine | June 2022 | 15

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SO Magazine | January 2021 | 5

social scene

ast month local fashion brand TWSeven and the ladies from the Tunbridge Wells Ukraine Refugee Support Group (a sub branch of TWWR Charity) organised a Luxury Pop Up Shopping Event at One Warwick Park. It ran from 12-9pm in order to raise much needed funds for those fleeing Ukraine due to the Russian invasion. In total there were twenty local small businesses who took part in the event. They included Self Care Sunday, Royal Wells Beauty, Mimi Coco and TWSeven. Each participating company also donated a raffle prize too. "Our local conservative MP Greg Clark drew the raffle at the end of the evening which was a lot of fun," organiser and TWSeven founder Nikky Tebay told SO magazine. "In all £2523.00 was raised on the day which will now go to help support the Ukrainian families arriving in Tunbridge Wells with English classes, a Job Support club and children's Integration events."

SO Magazine | June 2022 | 17

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social scene

Eat out to help out

As part of the Markerstudy Shooting Stars apprenticeship scheme, two teams were formed and charged with the task of putting on a fundraising social event at STEAK restaurant at One Warwick Park Hotel last month. The competition’s key aims were for each team to show off their marketing and hospitality skills, raise money for a worthy charity - and give members of the public who'd bought tickets to one of the two special evenings a memorable time. Team One, Après Ski, chose an alpine themed soiree for their event on Monday May 9 while Team Two, Cinco Hombres, opted for a distinctly South American theme on Tuesday May 10. Each group put on two sittings to raise money for their chosen charities which were CLAPA (Cleft Lip and Palate Association) and Beyond Reflections, a small mental wellbeing charity supporting transgender, non-binary and questioning adults, their families, and friends. Here's what a spokesperson for each team had to say about how their special evening...

Lily Spencer, Team Après Ski: "We had access to STEAK from 10am in order to begin decorating the restaurant, transforming it into a winter wonderland! With snowballs on tables, skis against the wall and live music from Jessica Nelson from Once Upon A Wish, the event was ready to begin. Guests at both sittings received mulled wine upon arrival, and enjoyed additional entertainment courtesy of a three round, ski-themed quiz. We felt the evening ran smoothly and were very pleased with the turnout of 67 covers in total. We also received great feedback from our guests including comments such as: “Well done to you and your team, a great evening – good luck!” and “Such a beautiful evening, the food was amazing, we loved the quiz, it was so much fun!” Ellie Priestly, Team Cinco Hombres added: "We ran a Mexican themed restaurant at STEAK. The night was a great success, with guests enjoying taking photos in the magic mirror with our Mexican themed props. We all had a fantastic night and most importantly raised money for a great cause."

Photographs © Emily Harding

SO Magazine | June 2022 | 19

35 Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1LS 01892 517986

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special charity lunch has returned to its roots at The Spa Hotel after having been cancelled for the past two years because of Covid and recently announced it's now raised £32,551.60 for charity. Organised by a group of Tunbridge Wells businessmen known as The Exiles, the lunch and charity auction in aid of the Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre in Monson Road, was attended by nearly 180 guests, all eager to support the good cause. A charity auction saw a range of lots bid for.They included Premiership football tickets, meals out and spa days.

Co-founder of Pickering, which offers emotional support to people who have cancer and their families, Polly Taylor, said: “There were 176 wonderful, wonderful, lovely huggable people there. The whole event for me was stand-out. When I stood up to do my presentation and looked out over that room and saw all those smiling faces… it was worth waiting two and a half years for.” Joining the guests at the luncheon was auctioneer and stand-up comedian, Adger Brown, who hosted the event, as well as comedy music trio ‘The Singing Waiters’.

Photographs © David Bartholomew

social scene

SO Magazine | June 2022 | 21

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Advertising Feature

This month Lynne Gadsden from Grovewood Wealth Management discusses how female business owners now account for many new company incorporations, and how they can help their business owners clients

hen I started my career in finance, the entrepreneurs I met were, on the whole, male. If a woman launched her own business, it was lauded as something unusual, but I’m pleased to say that this is no longer the case. The past two years has certainly changed, how women are approaching and thinking about business. Some women have found themselves with more time to launch a business – simply as they weren’t commuting each day or they lost their job and decided to concentrate on that business idea that had been bubbling away. Other women find themselves with more time when their children are at secondary school and they aren’t involved as much in school run commitments or when their offspring have left for university and they find themselves as ‘empty nesters’. When your financial situation changes in any way – and that includes launching a new business – it’s always really sensible to speak to a financial adviser. I’m a business owner myself so, in addition to sharing my financial knowledge, I’m always ready to share my experience and also my contacts through networking and my business life.

ENTREPRENEUR CLUB

What I’d also recommend - and we know many of our clients have found really helpful - is joining the St. James's Place Entrepreneur Club. Running your own business can be challenging and it’s not always easy to identify the route to success. The Entrepreneur Club can help. Its diagnostic tool will enable you to compare your business with similar businesses on a local and national level. You will receive a valuable insight into your business, providing you with independent confirmation of the areas you excel and helping you identify areas where you need help. As part of The Entrepreneur Club, you’ll receive regular updates, tailored to the stage of the business lifecycle you’re in – from starting-up to getting ready to sell. Articles and

information you’ll be sent range from tips on growing your business sustainably to how to hire your first members of staff. One of the most important aspects to becoming an entrepreneur is protecting your wealth as your business grows and that’s addressed in a recent article shared by The Entrepreneur Club1. As the article, says, for many entrepreneurs, personal wealth and company wealth are intertwined, so keeping on top of your finances is vital. It always pays to have a plan and take advice. In order to provide our new service to you, we work in conjunction with an extensive network of external growth advisers and SME specialists, such as Elephants Child, who have been carefully selected by St. James’s Place. The services provided by these specialists are separate and distinct to the services carried out by St. James’s Place and include advice on how to grow your business and prepare your business for sale. We then work holistically with you and the specialists to help grow and protect the value of your business and ultimately when you need to extract value from your business.

JOIN A NETWORK

I’m very unjudgmental when women ask me about their personal finances and their business finances too. Chatting with other women about finance can help and this applies in business life too. At the end of the day, I’m also an entrepreneur and I’ve drawn great strength and support by belonging to various female business networking groups, as well as sponsoring our local Ladies Lunch Club. I’ve also recently launched a business forum for Tunbridge Wells, called enTWine, alongside two other local female business owners. While enTWine isn’t solely for women, I have really benefitted from conversations I’ve had with my two other co-founders. They both run successful businesses locally to me and we’ve enjoyed sharing both our successes and our challenges over the years. Joining a network

can help you grow your confidence and gives you a sounding board for business related issues.

TAX EFFICIENT WAYS TO PAY YOURSELF

If your business is still in its early stages – or if you haven’t yet thought about it – you should take counsel on the most taxefficient way to pay yourself and how to develop the best tax plan. Doing so can save time, hassle and money. Creating a detailed financial plan that incorporates both business and personal assets is important. I can help you to look at your business and make sure it’s as efficient and effective as it can be. Forward thinking and strategic planning is essential so you can work out what you want in retirement, when you’re going to retire and what you want to leave to others.

EXTRACTING PROFITS

There are a number of different ways to extract profits from your business to fund your personal life. One of the ways is through dividends rather than salary which can have enormous benefits from a tax perspective. Dividend tax rules have recently changed but it is still worth looking at the best way of remunerating yourself and saving as much tax as you can. Other changes include an increase of 1.25% on National Insurance, which does not apply to those paying themselves through dividends but does apply to entrepreneurs who take salaries from their business or sole traders in their year-end tax return. All these changes mean that advice is invaluable.

REMEMBER THE TAX EFFICIENCY OF A PENSION

Another smart way to protect your wealth is paying into a pension. Not only is this probably the most tax-efficient way of extracting profit from your business, but it’s also an essential part of planning for the future. Many entrepreneurs think that selling their business will

provide enough funds for a lengthy retirement, but this is often not the case – so make sure you consider paying into a pension if you aren’t already. We know that you will be passionate about your business, and we’re passionate about helping you plan your business finances. If you’re starting out in business or have been trading for some time and you would like some pointers on how best to plan and make the most of your finances then please get in touch. Grovewood Wealth Management Ltd., Chartered Financial Planners, Senior Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management. Tel: 01892 750750 www.grovewoodwealth.co.uk The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds that you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested.

The value of any tax relief is dependent on individual circumstances. Grovewood Wealth Management Ltd is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority_ for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www. sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. ‘Protect your wealth as your business grows’, St James’s Place Wealth Management Entrepreneur Club Webpage, 1 March 2022, www.sjpentrepreneurclub.co.uk https://sjpentrepreneurclub.co.uk/ expansion-maximising-profits/ protect-your-wealth-as-yourbusiness-grows 1

The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time. SO Magazine | June 2022 | 23

Culture

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Culture

“We’ve missed connecting” Comedian, Have I Got News For You panelist and Radio 4 host Paul Merton is finally able to bring his popular show Impro Chums back to the Assembly Hall with his pals on June 10. We caught up with them all to find out what they have in store for their audience...

hey were last on a stage together in August 2019, but now nothing is going to prevent the on-the-spot and off-the-cuff comedy antics of Paul Merton’s Impro Chums. The adlibbing troupe – comprising Mike McShane, Suki Webster, Richard Vranch, Kirsty Newton, and, of course, Paul Merton – could barely be happier that they are now returning to the nation’s stages with another selection of games spurred on by those all-important audience suggestions. As the group limbers up for a national tour, they discuss the Chums’ love of playing games, Kirsty’s debut tour of duty in 2019 and why the Covid is not welcome at their shows . . . So, we should get this out the way first: do you think it’s likely that Covid will be mentioned during a game or will you avoid it like the plague? Richard Vranch: I did quite a few shows back at the Comedy Store after a 16-month break and weirdly it hasn’t come up from an audience in any of the suggestions. I’ve made a couple of jokes about it, because….they were very funny, but other than that it hasn’t actually been mentioned.

it is in the joy and connection with each other and the audience. And we’re all going to be so giddy with excitement at being back together that I can’t see it being a focus.

KN: I have one brilliant memory of going through the Scottish Highlands and sticking my head out of the bus going, ‘this is wonderful!’

PM: One of the highlights of the last tour was when we started throwing water at each other.

MM: To pick up on that hanging out of the window, next year’s tour will be billed as ‘disturbing British livestock for over a decade’.

SW: That’s our level.

PM: Lock up your cows.

PM: What audiences like about what we do is that we haven’t lost our sense of play, our sense of fun, the sort of thing that gets knocked out of you because you have to get married or get a mortgage or find a job. We play and they enjoy watching us play.

Without a script to learn, the notion of rehearsal is clearly very different for you as a group. But how do you get the comedy muscle moving before a show?

What have you missed about the touring life? RV: The thing I’ve missed is laughter. I’ve been watching a load of telly and there has been wonderful stuff produced by an arts industry that has been having a hard time. But I’ve really missed laughing with mates on the bus on the way to the gig and on stage during the gig. Mike McShane: The last tour was exemplary for us as a group; it felt like a Marx Brothers show in the best way possible. We now had music from Kirsty and it was all very nice. Getting on the bus, checking in on each other, hanging out, acting like idiots. And doing the show is fantastic and everything you hope for.

Paul Merton: My own view is that people would want to get away from it. Not every comedy show has to hold up a magnifying glass to society and be about how we live today. The whole idea of entertainment, for me, is to take you somewhere else, not to remind you of where you are.

Those 2019 shows marked Kirsty’s first Impro Chums tour of duty. What was your overriding memory of the experience?

Suki Webster: I think the particular form of comedy we do is about us having fun and being silly; it doesn’t lend itself to satire or in-depth discussion on difficult subjects because you’ve got four or five minds on stage all weaving in and out. The depth of

PM: To adapt an old saying, you can lead Paul Merton to music but you can’t make him sing. But it was great having Kirsty there and there was more music in that show than before. Mike and Suki are very strong singers and Richard is very musical, of course, but I stay out of the way.

Kirsty Newton: I felt as though I’d been let into the coolest, funnest club ever and we had such a wonderful time. My over-riding sense of it is that it’s probably the best job in the world; just consistent fun and loveliness all the way. I’d say I have the best seat in the house: I’m up close and personal with everyone on the stage and I get to direct the music, making them explode into song mid-scene. Quite often I don’t know what’s going to come out of my fingers; that’s the joy of it.

PM: The most important thing is to be together beforehand. So we’ll throw a ball around to be in each other’s orbit and to just tune in to each other. KN: And we do a vocal warm-up to make sure the pipes are working and we don’t start off croaky. RV: The preparation for the show is the decades that we’ve known and worked together. With a scripted show or a rock band, you’d start to get ‘musical differences’ round about year 15. I think I first appeared on stage with Paul in 1984, and with impro it’s about a group attitude and sense of fun. Weirdly, that matures like a good cheese or wine over the years and doesn’t fester like a rock band. So we put the work in by simply having done it for all this time and it just gets better and better. PM: As Richard says, you can compare our group to a ripe cheese. RV: Just in case you hadn’t noticed, we’re very self-deprecatory. With the way that comedy has become an industry, it’s a lot about ‘I’m great, I’m great, look at my Instagram!’ We’re a bit old-fashioned and normal about it. We’re not too showbizzy, which I quite like. Finally, how important is the audience in making an Impro Chums show the best it can be? SW: We’ve really missed the connection with an audience. If you’re doing a play or stand-up there’s a bit of us and them, but with our show it’s about everybody, because their energy and their suggestions build it in a way that no other show can have. Everything is happening in the moment and what they’re doing is absolutely crucial. When it goes right that means everyone is involved and having a good time. It’s like a big party! SO Magazine | June 2022 | 25

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Community

enjoyed after an invigorating walk to Tunbridge Wells Common and onto Happy Valley. Where’s the best place to go out and socialise? Colley Raine’s work nights out often involve the Nourish quiz at The Guinea or cheeky drinks on The Pantiles. Office Tribe, who we rent our offices from, are very good at organising socials locally. If we are going out for drinks with friends then we often go to the Town House, the Wine Rooms, Tunbridge Wells Hotel, The Compasses, The Mount Edgcumbe or Saint John’s Yard. What do you do when you spend a weekend or day off in the local area? I play netball once a week in the Tunbridge Wells Netball League with a bunch of fantastic women. It is a brilliant league and encompasses players of all ages. If we get a rare day off together kid-free then my husband and I will go for a walk or a drive, put

This month we chat to Sarah Raine, co-founder of Colley Raine & Associates - who provide social media, PR and fundraising support to local charities - about why she loves Tunbridge Wells How long have you lived here? We have lived in our current house for 15 years. I am a Kent girl at heart, I grew up in Goudhurst and my grandparents lived in Tunbridge Wells. I moved to London for university, studied abroad for a year and then stayed in London for work and we made the move back to Tunbridge Wells 25 years ago. We first lived in a beautiful Victorian house in the ‘village’ area, and then moved to the house we are in now to raise our three children (now 20, 17 and 11) a few years later. During our first few years in Tunbridge Wells, we moved to Dubai in the early 2000s for four years with my husband’s job. I don’t think we truly appreciated what a special place this is until we came back to live here for good in 2006. What’s your favourite shop locally? I regularly shop at Fullers the Butcher, Juliets, and the Pig & Porter Brewery. I Love a Chapel Down Bacchus, Bella Jane Jewellery and Anna Poulsen in Chapel Place. In addition to supporting our local foodbank, hospice, children’s charities and mental health causes, I really recommend Empathy Action for their online ‘Empathy Store’. They pay families in developing countries to set up businesses to produce items to sell, giving them a sustainable income gifts.

Where’s the best place to go for a Sunday stroll? Most Sundays I ‘stroll’ around the sidelines of TWRFC and Foresters FC to watch my younger two girls play rugby and football. If I get a rare Sunday off, it’s a family wander with Maple the cavapoo puppy on the Common or to Hargate Forest and then down to The Pantiles for Hot chocolate. Or we head over to Goudhurst and take a walk around the village fields and lanes with my parents and have a catch up with them. Where do you take people when they come to visit? In the summer, we head to Jazz on the Pantiles whenever possible and I love what the Old Auction House is doing with their pop-up events. In the summer, I take visitors to the eclectic Changeling Theatre open air theatre – they are performing Othello and The Importance of Being Earnest all over Kent and Sussex through July and August. They are also performing at Penshurst Place which will be magical. Out of town guests love the buzz around the Old High Street, walking the Hungershall Park/ Nevill Park circuit and, if kids are involved, climbing all over the rocks on the Common. I am really excited by the events that will be taking place at The Amelia - and its Fine Grind

“I regularly shop at Fullers the Butcher, Juliets, and the Pig & Porter Brewery. I Love a Chapel Down Bacchus, Bella Jane Jewellery and Anna Poulsen in Chapel Place” cafe - are open so those places will feature on our schedule in the future. Where’s your favourite place to eat locally? For special occasions, it would be The Lyle every time thanks to its fantastic food, amazing atmosphere and phenomenal service. There are so many great places to go to more regularly in Tunbridge Wells including Sopranos, The Wine Rooms and Sankey’s … but if I had to pick one it would be TN1 Bar & Kitchen. I love the owners’ enthusiasm, it has a laid-back atmosphere, lovely food and often hosts live music. Are there any nice views nearby? I love sitting on the terrace of The Beacon… it’s best

the world to rights and have a lazy, long lunch somewhere. Recent visits I can recommend have taken us to The George & Dragon in Speldhurst, The Deer Park Café in Eridge Green, The George in Frant and The Goudhurst Inn. Why do you love where you live? I feel incredibly passionate about Tunbridge Wells and I am committed to making a difference to where we live. In fact, Colley Raine & Associates was set up in 2018 as an ethical marketing agency to largely support local businesses and charities. Along with the work we do to raise awareness of some of our incredible businesses, we are also very proud to give back a little to our community, through our pro-bono and discounted work with charities. SO Magazine | June 2022 | 27

Community

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Community

“The Green Duck offers something for everyone”

This month Jess Gibson, founder of the TN card, speaks to Matt Elesmore of The Green Duck Emporium and The Green Duck Coffee House and Bar, both located on Grosvenor Road in Tunbridge Wells

THE GREEN DUCK COFFEE HOUSE & BAR LOCATION: 53 Grosvenor Road, Tunbridge Wells TN1 2AY VISIT FOR: Brunches, lunches and cakes. Pre-booked bottomless brunches, wine tastings and other events. MEMBER REWARD: 15% off food and drink in opening hours plus 20% off monthly Bottomless Brunch mornings.

THE GREEN DUCK EMPORIUM

and I wanted to make use of our amazing courtyard and cave. We soon needed more space so I took the plunge and opened a second site, moving the emporium just down the road to give us a dedicated coffee house and an events space. How would you describe the Coffee House & Bar? It’s a relaxing space with charm, good food and drinks and an amazing secret courtyard and cave. Your events are in full swing now, what can we look forward to in the coming months? Everything from Bottomless Brunch, Cockney Sing-a-longs, Wine Tasting nights, Annie Sloan paint courses, Christmas wreath courses, and this September we’ll have our new ”NAKED” sing-a-longs. We’re also available for private hire. Our events

are pre-booked only via our website. You have now opened a second shop in Brighton, what is next for The Green Duck brand? Yes we have been very busy! We opened our Brighton store in April this year in the Lanes, and I am planning to open our Canterbury store in time for Christmas 2022. What do you love about Grosvenor Road? I’d have to say it’s the people and the buzz. We are becoming a very up-andcoming road with many new independents opening, and I am proud be a part of it. Why did you join the TN card? We really want people to support local and feel part of a community, and we get this from the TN card!

LOCATIONS: 44 Grosvenor Road, Tunbridge Wells TN1 2AS and 19 Meeting House Lane, Brighton BN1 1HB

So Matt, what will we discover if we pay you a visit at The Green Duck Emporium? Our handmade luxury soaps take pride of place in the centre of the shop, so you will be greeted with their gorgeous scents when you enter. We passionately believe that The Green Duck offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for interior design inspiration, a ‘one-off ’ piece of beautiful furniture or a special gift, we have you covered.

with retail and wanted to be creative. And so The Green Duck was born!

You opened during the pandemic - how did the shop come about? I have worked as a stage manager since leaving school and overnight, with the closure of our theatres, my work and life as I knew it stopped. I needed something to do, was familiar

Just 15 months after opening the Emporium, the Green Duck expanded with the opening of the Coffee House & Bar. Was that always the plan? Not at all! We began selling coffee as I’ve always had a love for good coffee

Where does your love for interesting things come from? I have grown up around shops. My Mum, Jenny Elesmore, started trading with Odds & Suds thirty years ago at Tavistock Market and went on to open three shops, which are today run by my sisters. The furniture and one-off pieces we stock reflect my love of theatre.

VISIT FOR: Homewares and gifts, soaps, candles, Annie Sloan paint and unique furniture pieces. MEMBER REWARD: A complimentary bath creamer when you spend over £20 in both stores.

Jess Gibson

Founder the TN Card SO Magazine | June 2022 | 29

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e distance ourselves from being called a gym. We revised the SweatIT brand as a training club because we are so far in comparison to what you might have experienced in the past. “I’ve never enjoyed exercise before”, “I actually look forward to coming to the gym”, and “I didn’t think I’d be able to do what am able to do now” - are regular feedback we get from our fantastic members. And that is exactly why we do what we do. We believe that everyone and anyone should have the opportunity to access fitness and improve their quality of life by increasing flexibility, and overall strength and reducing risk of injury and illness. We often speak about the common faults of your standard commercial gyms; the downfalls that lead to loss of retention, autonomy and zero results. Recent data discloses that a whopping 4

billion pounds are spent on unused gym memberships. What this really tells us is that people have good intentions but they’ve not had an experience worth sticking with. So what divides us from the rest? We recognise the challenges that everyday people tend to face when joining and attending ‘the gym’. A gym can be an intimidating environment. Feeling unwelcome, out of place or unsure of what you’re trying to achieve are critical influences of inactive memberships. What is also evident is that beyond the barriers of uncomfortable entry, a drop in membership after the January spike is mostly due to a lack of motivation and direction. With no plan, no specificity on your personal goals and very little encouragement & enjoyment - is it any wonder why the success rate is so low? We care about people, and our main priority is to help everyone achieve a long-term healthy lifestyle.

We notice the significant exclusion of people who want to implement change but haven’t found the right method to get there. We have built a product that is for everyone, no matter their exposure to fitness.

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YOUR CHANCE TO MEET

antiques expert Mark Hill... The next addition to the increasingly fine stable of expert antiquarian bloodstock housed in The Pantiles Arcade will be Mr Mark Hill. Another figure already known to millions by way of his appearances on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow, Mark will be making his debut appearances in the old Corn Exchange during the early part of this coming summer. He’ll become the latest to host proceedings in the series of entertaining and informative ‘lectures’ at the prestigious venue, following on from Eric Knowles, Richard Price and Andy McConnell, who have already taken their turns on centre stage. Mark is known for his dapper appearance and irrepressible style – along with an eclectic and acquisitive taste for antiques which encompasses a wide range of artefacts. He has perhaps the most contemporary

30 | June 2022 | SO Magazine

and eclectic taste of all the experts who are part of the Pantiles Arcade, harbouring an interest in pieces from the latter part of the 20th century such as Star Wars memorabilia and post-war Czech glassware which redefine what is considered desirable and collectable. From abstract sculptural pieces to avant garde art prints, by way of gently erotic etchings of pancake-making nudes dating to France’s ‘Belle Époque’, you can be sure that Mark’s interests are a long way removed from the somewhat outmoded perception of antiques as items that should be dolefully regarded in dusty, silent rooms. As such his inspiration and verve will fit in perfectly with what’s being created and curated in the increasingly vibrant corner of Tunbridge Wells. Not only will Mark be making personal appearances

Beginners feel confident and experienced feel challenged, and here are our 4 main factors of how we are different: 1. Our coaching. Expertly designed programming, delivered by a professional fitness coach. Gain results, develop understanding and feel motivated in your training. 2. Our community. Welcomed into a friendly community who all

“We’re in the Corn Exchange at 49 Lower Walk on The Pantiles, and can be contacted on 01892 322777 or by way of hello@ pantilesarcade.com or visit our website scottishantiques.com”

support, encourage and motivate each other to keep you pushing towards your goals. 3. Support. Continued care and help you wherever you are on your journey to building a better version of yourself. 4. We often speak about the common faults of your standard commercial gyms; the downfalls that lead to loss of retention, autonomy and zero results. Recent data discloses that a whopping 4 billion pounds are spent on unused gym memberships. What this really tells us is that people have good intentions but they’ve not had an experience worth sticking with.

at the Pantiles Arcade, he will also be taking floor-space within the expanding outlet for the display and sale of chosen articles from his own inventory, all of which will also be available by way of the ScottishAntiques.com website - the on-line manifestation of The Hoard Ltd, who are the owner-operators of the venue. Having begun operations whilst the strictures of Covid were still in full, restrictive effect, it’s been a trying time for us all since opening the doors last summer, but with the addition of Mark to the list of participants, it’s very evident that things are gathering pace nicely. With the announcement of additional high-profile speakers already inked in to the schedule for later this year, that’s a trend which is set to continue, and the emporium’s owners are committed to making further strides towards ensuring that the venture becomes the go-to resource and a venue for anyone with an interest in antiquity and the arts or simply seeking advice.

Event

The race is on… … As businesses and schools rev their engines in anticipation of this month’s charity Soapbox Stars Kart Race, we discover more about this fun event from its founder Nicole Piesse Turner

and a climbing wall for children.” Nicole added that Nourish Community Foodbank will also be in attendance on the day, raising awareness and collecting for the charity, which is in more demand than ever. In order to raise vital funds, the idea is for each participating team to donate their first £250 to the Hospice in the Weald, with the option of continuing to donate their remaining sponsorship funds to them - or a second charity of their choice. The Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre is the event’s second chosen charity said Nicole with also Nourish Foodbank benefitting too. The much-loved soapbox race was first launched in 2018 and in its second year in 2019 managed to raise over £50,000 for local charities but it was forced out of action for two years due to the pandemic. The good news is this year it’s finally returning and for the first time will be welcoming schools as an exciting new addition. “We believe this is a sign of the event’s value within the community and across West Kent,” added Nicole. “We are more than thrilled to bring back this outrageously Photograph © Eden Envis

he third Tunbridge Wells Soapbox Stars Kart Race takes place on Saturday June 25. The one-day extravaganza will see 45 ‘pimped up’ karts raced by local businesses and schools hurtling down a hair-raising track in Dunorlan Park in order to raise funds for three charities. For 2022 they are Hospice in the Weald, the Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre and Nourish Community Foodbank. Tickets for the wacky fundraiser - hosted again by TV chef and much-loved Tunbridge Wells resident Rosemary Shrager, who has promised to join in the fun by racing down the track herself – need to be purchased in advance, as they won’t be available on the day. “Alongside Rosemary, will be panto king Tom Swift of Wicked Productions who will be providing race day commentary, while award-winning youth musical theatre company Talentz will be on hand with a special performance,” explained the event’s founder and organsier Nicole Piesse Turner. “Visitors can also expect a variety of top-quality food and drink stalls alongside sideshows and entertainment including community Samba drumming band Bloco Fogo, a display by renowned graffiti artist Humor Street

silly but incredibly important event to Tunbridge Wells. could really do with our help Because we had to postpone it after the past few years has left twice due to Covid it’s been a them really struggling.” less than straightforward journey Nicole went on to say that to get it back on to the town’s apart from the ‘bonkers’ race event calendar but due itself there will be plenty to an overwhelming for visitors to enjoy - and emotional from live outpouring of performances, to “Aside from the support from delicious food, bonkers race itself there to a climbing the local business and will be plenty for visitors wall. the school “We really to enjoy including live community we need for the performances and are back - and community to we hope better really get delicious food” than ever! behind us. We’ve “This year’s event already had an welcomes schools for overwhelming amount the first time. They wanted of tickets sold and with a to take part in the races before new batch now added, we are the pandemic and we didn’t want encouraging our lovely town to to let them down again. Along come and join in the madness with children’s anxiety at the - there won’t be an opportunity forefront of all of our minds to buy on the door so don’t miss following recent events, it is one out and get yours now!” of the most important aspects of Soapbox Stars runs on this year’s race along with the Saturday June 25 from 10am to charities, community and 6pm, and tickets will be available businesses. at www.twsoapboxrace.com “It’s going to be a great They cost just £12.50 for an community celebration we’ve adult, £8.50 for a child (5-17) and been looking forward to for so little one’s under 5 go free. long and we’re really going for gold, in terms of what we can More information is available at raise for the local charities who twsoapboxrace.com/buytickets SO Magazine | June 2022 | 31

Culture

Painting a picture of true artistic inspiration… South East Open Studios is an annual opportunity for local artists to showcase their work at their studios. This year the event celebrates its 25th anniversary and will run from June 3-19. Here painter Keith Siddle from Langton Green tells SO magazine why he’s getting involved for the 14th time…

stablished in 1997, South East Open Studios – or SEOS as it’s more commonly referred to – has grown in size and popularity every year. What started out as the West Kent Open Studios 25 years ago, with just a handful of artists participating, now boasts almost 300 artists taking part. One of these include the Langton Green based, self-taught painter Keith Siddle, who has enjoyed a successful career as a painter despite no formal training – something he cites as an advantage. Here the talented artist tells us all about his work and what you can expect to see if you drop into see him in his garden studio over the next few weekends…. So Keith, for those not familiar with your artwork how would you sum it up? My paintings are detailed and vibrant studies from nature, a snapshot where motion becomes still. They are colourful and contemporary, often with a little cheekiness to them but I ultimately hope my paintings make people smile. Where do you draw your visual inspiration from?

32 | June 2022 | SO Magazine

Most of my paintings have been inspired by my experiences and things I’ve seen. For example, my ‘Tropical Marines’, ‘Turtles’ and other ‘Sealife’ paintings have been inspired by my scuba diving experiences. My ‘Koi’ paintings are from visiting the top Koi breeders in Japan in 1997 and showing my work at many Koi Shows all over the world. My ‘Food Art ‘paintings are inspired by believe it or not eating! Are fish still your favourite thing to paint? Yes, I really enjoy studying their shapes and movement then adding them to a background which may contrast or complement the colours of the fish. At the design stage I can become obsessed with getting the drawing anatomically correct before individually drawing the scales. One of my recent paintings ‘Sweetlips – Orange’, a painting depicting seven Sweetlips tropical fish advancing over different shades of orange background, had over 20,000 scales drawn and painted. You’re a self-taught artist what do you think this adds to your work? I had to learn and try different art techniques until I found my own

style. I feel my work has a uniqueness to it, especially as I often like to try unusual combinations of colours, which I may have been put off trying at art college. You also have two teaching jobs - when do you find the time to paint? I am an Ar t Technician and Magazine Editor at Holmewood House School. I’m also a football coach at Langton Green FC and a dad – so, yes I lead quite a busy life! Time in my studio is precious and I love every second I get in there. I’m currently working on a number of commissioned paintings for private clients. These

include a two-metre x 80cm detailed painting of 15 tur tle hatchlings which took approximately four months to complete.

“Most of my paintings have been inspired by my experiences and things I’ve seen”

Why do you enjoy participating in this event? South East Open Studios gives us the chance to actually meet the clients and explain the story of the painting. I love the enthusiasm visitors have shown when entering my studio and I hope all the other artists taking part get similar reactions. I have been doing Open Studios for about 13 years now and have met some amazing people. Some come back every year…

Culture

What can visitors expect to see? I will have a large selection of my paintings, prints and my three children’s picture books to show. I am particularly proud of my latest sunflowers painting ‘From now on in it’s strictly Blue Sky’ which is a quote from the song ‘Ocean Blue’ by 80s music legends ABC. It is an acrylic painting on a 150cm x 100cm box canvas and I was inspired to start painting this during lockdown with the blue plane-less skies. It’s a celebration of the beauty of nature and optimism for a brighter future after lockdown. I will also be showing the triptych of acrylic paintings on 150cm x 100cm box canvases called ‘Eagle Ray/Sardines/Green Turtle’. This triptych was inspired by some of my scuba diving experiences, with each painted sardine embellished with a pearlescent varnish. The turtle and ray have a gloss varnish and the background is finished with

I have also written three books and was thrilled to receive a handwritten letter from Sir David Attenborough about my work

a satin varnish…all that was a real labour of love. Do you get a lot of business from this type of event? The beauty of events like South East Open Studios is that you never know what will happen or who you will meet. Sometimes you may not sell at the time, but then someone comes back to buy or commission a new painting after the event. You've also penned three books - can you tell us a little bit about them? I have written, illustrated and selfpublished three children’s picture books. They are ‘Pirate Jack – The One-eyed Cat’, ‘Little Angelica – A little fish on her BIG adventure’ and ‘Little Angelica – To Save our Sea’. Inspiration came when our children were little and I also wanted to try illustrating in a different, more cartoony style. I am currently working on four other books to

add to my titles. I was thrilled to receive a handwritten letter from Sir David Attenborough complementing me about ‘Little Angelica – To Save Our Sea’ and I get lots of great feedback from parents about how much their children love the books as well as how the parents enjoy reading them too! If my words and illustrations inspires even one child to read more then I am really proud of what I have achieved. FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.keithsiddleart.com Keith-Siddle-Artist-Illustrator keith.siddle.artist keithsiddleart

FOR MORE INFO ON SOUTH EAST OPEN STUDIOS THIS JUNE… Visit any of SEOS’s social media platforms: @seopenstudios on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and also www.SEOS-art.org Keith Siddle’s studio will be open as part of SEOS from 10am – 5pm on June 3, 4 ,5, 11,12, 18 & 19 June. “Studio 8”, 8 Gibbetts, Langton Green,Tunbridge Wells, Kent,TN3 0DG.

SO Magazine | June 2022 | 33

Invest for your child’s future in the new tax year Saving and investing money on behalf of children or grandchildren could make a big difference to their future, helping them to pay for university or even put down a deposit on their first home. With a new tax year upon us, there is no better time to ensure you’re investing as tax efficiently as possible for your children.

A simple and tax-efficient way to save money for children is to invest through a Junior ISA. If you begin early, your child or grandchild could have a substantial sum of money by the time they turn 18, giving them an important financial leg up as they enter adulthood.

Why invest for a child

How much to invest

Children today face a more uncertain financial future than they did in the past. University tuition fees in the UK have increased ninefold since 1998 to up to £9,250 a year1, meaning many students face graduating with enormous levels of debt. Meanwhile, house prices have increased at a much faster pace than average wages, making it harder to get a foot onto the property ladder. Investing for your child or grandchild offers them the chance to graduate free from debt, raise a deposit for their first home, or simply have a financial boost when they most need it.

How much you choose to invest will depend on a range of factors, including your financial circumstances, goals, and personal preferences. It’s important to ensure you don’t invest more than you can afford, and that you’re not neglecting other goals, such as building an emergency fund or saving for your retirement.

Cash versus investing

The table below gives an illustration of how much a monthly investment could potentially be worth after five, ten, 15 and 18 years. Remember, investments can fall as well as rise, and inflation can reduce the spending power of money over the long term.

There are lots of options when it comes to saving and investing money for children. Piggy banks and cash savings accounts are useful for teaching young children about money, as well as funding short-term goals like buying a new gadget or toy. But when it comes to longer-term goals, leaving money in cash probably isn’t the wisest decision.

Number of years

£50 per month

£100 per month

5 years

£3,464

£6,929

£20,787

10 years

£7,846

£15,693

£47,079

15 years

£13,470

£26,940

£80,821

The interest rates on cash savings accounts tend to be below the rate of inflation. This means that, over time, the ‘real’ value of your child’s savings will decline. If you left £100 in a piggy bank and inflation averaged 2.5% a year, its real value would fall to just £53.10 after 25 years.

18 years

£17,583

£35,166

£105,497

Investing in the stock market offers the potential for greater long-term growth, helping your money to work harder for your child’s future. Although the stock market is volatile, history shows that over periods of ten or more years it tends to perform more strongly than cash and grow above the rate of inflation.

The benefits of a Junior ISA One of the best ways to invest for a child’s future is through a Junior ISA. You can invest up to £9,000 a year (tax year 2022/23) for each child, and you don’t pay capital gains tax on the profits (‘gains’) you make when selling investments. Reinvested interest and dividends are also tax free, making Junior ISAs a simple way of investing tax efficiently. Once your child turns 18, they can either access the money or continue investing through an adult Investment ISA. Although it’s possible to invest for children through your own ISA, opening a Junior ISA means you won’t use up any of your own £20,000 annual ISA allowance. You might also find it easier to manage your savings and investments if you can clearly see how much money belongs to each member of the family. Other family members can also contribute to your child’s Junior ISA, helping to build up an even more substantial sum of money.

£300 per month

Source: Brewin Dolphin. Assumes investment growth of 5% a year after charges and before inflation.

The key thing to remember is that the earlier you start, the better your chances are of boosting your child’s future financial security. Not only will you be saving for a longer period, but you’ll also have longer to potentially benefit from investment growth and compound returns. Compounding is where you get a return on your returns as well as on your initial capital, and it is particularly powerful over long periods.

Next steps Understanding how much you can afford to save for children and where to invest it isn’t always straightforward. Taking some smart advice will help you feel confident that you’re balancing saving for children with your other needs, and that you’re on track to meet all your goals. 1

www.ucas.com/finance/undergraduate-tuition-fees-and-student-loans and commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cbp-8151/

brewin.co.uk/royal-tunbridge-wells

Paul Cannons Senior Investment Manager paul.cannons@brewin.co.uk 01892 739580

The value of investments, and any income from them, can fall and you may get back less than you invested. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. Neither simulated nor actual past performance are reliable indicators of future performance. Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a particular strategy. Brewin Dolphin Limited is a member of the London Stock Exchange, and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Services Register reference number: 124444). Registered office: 12 Smithfield Street, London, EC1A 9BD. Registered in England and Wales – company number: 2135876. VAT number: GB 690 8994 69 BDM3882_2205_0.2

Food & Drink

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Open 10am - 6pm daily | 01622 832794 | Balfour Winery, Five Oak Lane, Staplehurst, Kent, TN12 0HT 36 | June 2022 | SO Magazine

Food & Drink

Taste the difference

Following the news that The Blue Anchor in Crowborough has won Pub of the Year in the Beautiful South Tourism Awards for the second year in a row, Richard Williams went along to see what makes this historic hostelry such a modern-day favourite…

nce thought to be the haunt of choice for the smugglers and poachers who roamed the East Sussex countryside,The Blue Anchor in Crowborough has always been a popular spot to eat and drink. And now, for the second consecutive time it has been named Pub of the Year in the Beautiful South Tourism Awards. The announcement was made in April by an independent panel of industry leaders, past winners and experts who judged pubs across the South East on factors ranging from appearance and service to its food, online customer reviews, and the business’s use of social media. Amy Glenie, the licensee of The Blue Anchor on Beacon Road, said it was totally unexpected to have received the honour once again. “It is amazing and just so unexpected – especially because it is the second year in a row. It was just such a big surprise.” She added: “With everything that has been going on, it’s so good for the team to be rewarded like this. It brings everybody together after a couple of really tough years.” Following the news of its prestigious award, SO magazine decided it was time to pay The Blue Anchor a visit to see what all the fuss was about. Now with a name like The Blue Anchor, you’d be forgiven for thinking the cosy eighteenth century pub, located just

“The Blue Anchor is one of those establishments where it’s hard to leave because its ambience and food are so good.”

outside Crowborough, would predominantly specialise in fish. And while the East Sussex pub’s connections with the sea and its smugglers are not forgotten, the menu is actually very eclectic, offering something for everyone and celebrating many seasonal, indigenous ingredients. UNDER STARTERS ORDERS Although The Blue Anchor is a classic country pub in many ways it somehow also exudes a slightly continental feel too. Not just in the brasserie style dining area and attractive alfresco space but also because the menu borrows heavily from a few European nations. A case in point is the baby octopus we enjoyed which was given a Spanish kick courtesy of the sautéed chorizo served with it (£7.95). Alternatively, you can enjoy it with a serving of patatas bravas (£9.00), which as my guest discovered was almost a meal in itself. There’s a good range of Mediterranean-inspired lighter bites and vegetarian options, on the menu too. Nibbles range from whitebait and smoked garlic hummus to marinated olives (all £4.50), perfect if you just want a light bite with a drink instead of a full-blown dinner. Closer to home there are some great oysters on the menu too. The Tipsy Maldon ones (half dozen £12.00) are an absolute must-try if you are a fan of this particular salt water delicacy.

THE MAIN EVENT Also on The Blue Anchor’s ever changing menu are things like the ubiquitous pub classic cod and chips (£14.95), along with more refined offerings such as pan fried sea bass (£15.95) skate wing (£16.00) and Harissa Monkfish (£18.00). Meat is certainly not a forgotten entity and the slow cooked (12 hour) pork belly (£16.95) didn’t disappoint. The pork was super tender after such a slow roast, and came complete with moreish crispy crackling and a delicious mash fennel. Carnivores also have the option of dishes such as lamb rump (£15.50) and there’s also a decent range of burgers (£13.00) too. The buttermilk fried chicken burger (£13.95) with habanero and mango mayo was delicious and elevated its status to something far more exotic.

you read this it will be offering a slew of new super seasonal delights. And as we head into the summer months it’s good to note that the pub’s regular pizza nights come into their own with the finer weather as the garden is such a pleasure to be in. On leaving, my guest and I spy the aforementioned Best Pub of the Year in the Beautiful South Tourism award sitting proudly next to last year’s. After enjoying such a pleasant evening at The Blue Anchor we can now easily see why it’s being singled out as such a fantastic place to rest and refuel…

THE FINAL VERDICT The Blue Anchor is one of those establishments where it’s hard to leave because its ambience and food are so good. And the ample dessert and cheese board menu are further testament to this. But perhaps the biggest strength of The Blue Anchor is how often its menu changes. By the time

SO Magazine | June 2022 | 37

Food & Drink

Celebrate your dad and everything he does for you this Father’s Day at Salomons Estate

Book your table now by calling 01892 5 15152 or email receptio n@ salomons-es tate.com

All dads will receive a free beer! Join us on Sunday 19th June 2022, for a delicious lunch, overlooking our 36 acres of gardens. After lunch, enjoy a long stroll around the grounds with your four-legged furry friends, or just the family.

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Food & Drink

quality choices on offer courtesy of Moon’s Green Charcuterie which includes spiced salami beer sticks, an aromatic rosemary and garlic saucisson and slivers of Sussex beef bresaola. In terms of the cheese, you can go for a creamy Kingcott Blue, a gooey Bowyers brie or chow down on a chunk of Sussex Charmer – or go for all of them if your tastebuds guide you that way. Whichever you choose it’s worth noting that both the cheese and charcuterie choices are beautifully enhanced by the selection of seasonal vegetable dishes on offer. These included on our visit an über seasonal wild garlic and spring onion potato salad, a rich pea and mint hummus and smoky padron peppers. Our host recommended we also try the spiced poached pears which we declared a triumph with the moreish cheese on offer. And although these are tapas style sharing platters they still managed to fill us up – even my notoriously greedy guest was impressed! For our ‘flight’ a trio of classic

A vine romance… We take a trip to Balfour winery to see how they are successfully marrying their wines with locally produced foods

alfour has long been considered one of the most successful and innovative of English vineyards since it started producing its awardwinning wines at the Hush Heath Estate in Staplehurst back in 2002. This year it celebrates two decades in the business and the good news is the brand, which was created by local entrepreneur Richard Balfour-Lynn when he bought the surrounding 400 acres of land around his home Hush Heath Manor to plant vines, continues to go from strength to strength. Not only does Balfour now produce bottles of premium sparkling and still wine every year, it also makes a variety of lagers, non-alcoholic wines, ciders and fruit juices too. Hospitality is clearly a key part of everything Balfour does which is why it’s heavily invested in The View, a state of the art tasting room, and restaurant. The venue, which opened in 2018 and overlooks Nanette’s vineyard, is the beating heart of the customer-facing side of things at this renowned vineyard. Balfour has also steadily been growing its portfolio of pubs and

“Both the cheese and charcuterie choices are beautifully enhanced by the selection of seasonal vegetable dishes on offer at The View”

hotels so if you can’t make it to the original vineyard any time soon then you can experience the spirit of this unique winery at any of its nine independent establishments. The boutique collection of hostelries ranges from local places such as The Goudhurst Inn, The Tickled Trout in West Farleigh and The Woolpack in Tenterden, to those further afield including The Ship Inn in Rye, Balfour St. Barts in London’s Smithfield Market and The Falcon in The Cotswolds. But it is The View which we have been invited along to in order to sample a taste of the good life chez Balfour. The two-floor, beautifully appointed open plan dining area features lots of interesting contemporary artwork, a wellstocked shop and stunning terrace with gorgeous pastoral views. Arriving there one sunny Friday lunchtime with the sun beating down it’s clear that this is the perfect spot to sit back and relax. We’re here to sample their popular sharing platters alongside a tasting ‘flight’ of three classic Balfour wines.. The food menu is divided into three sections: Charcuterie, Local Cheese and Seasonal Vegetables. The idea is to pick either six (£35) or nine items (£45) in order to make up a decent sized platter which comes accompanied by fresh bread, crackers, quince and mixed olives. Meat lovers will delight in the

Balfour offerings were on the menu: an intensely fruity Blanc de Noirs 2018, the super zesty Leslie’s Reserve Brut NV and a delicious fragrant Leslie’s Reserve Rosé NV. (Prices from £5, with a Premium selection from £10). Feeling pleasantly sated we had a quick look around the impressive shop and tasting room which is also known as the Cellar Door – a traditional name for this area. It sells everything from single bottles to cases of both wine, beers, ciders and soft drinks and a tempting selection of artisan Mimi Coco chocolates. There’s also info here on the three different types of membership to the Balfour Wine Club. The first is the Balfour Social (£150 per year), the second is the Balfour Vine Holder (£500 per year) and finally the Balfour Wine Society (£300 for two cases per annum or £600 for four). Each one offers a plethora of exclusive benefits and discounts and is a must for any wine buff. The renowned Balfour winery also offers self-guided strolls around its vineyards and ancient woodlands and orchards – all year round. To toast Balfour’s 20th anniversary The View is hosting a variety of special events. So far this year it has welcomed the estate’s father and son winemakers Owen and Fergus Elias as part of its

Winemakers’ Collection launch to talk about their making process. On June 2 it hosts a special cocktail evening and later this month Balfour will be putting on a Father’s Day tasting with Jake’s Drinks (June 19 £35pp), a Summer Nature tour (June 26 £55pp). There will be numerous fourcourse Balfour Dining Club dinners (£95pp) throughout the year too. These are hosted by Head Chef Dan Austin with Head Winemaker, Fergus Elias who matches each dish to a Balfour wine. Sounds like the perfect pairing to us! For more information on Balfour’s 20th anniversary celebrations visit www. balfourwinery.com or follow them on social media @balfourwinery SO Magazine | June 2022 | 39

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Food & Drink

Celebrate Father’s day… Celebrate Father’s Day on June 19 by treating your dad to a delicious lunch or fun day out…

une 19 is Father’s Day and with the fine weather now here it’s a great opportunity to actually get out and about to help him celebrate. Two local venues: Salomons Estate and One Warwick Park’s STEAK are putting on some fun events which are sure to make your dad’s day. There will be a special roast on offer at each venue at lunchtime - with each father qualifying for a free beer - so it’s up to you whether you want to head towards the stunning 36-acre estate of Salomons or keep it local in the centre of Tunbridge Wells. After dining in style in Salomons’ welcoming restaurant you’ll have the opportunity to have a stroll around the gorgeous grounds if the weather is fine. Perfect for nature trails with little ones or for a good stroll to work off all that lunchtime excess it’s an ideal place to head to. Oh, and feel free to bring your four-legged furry friends too as the good news is Salomons is completely dog friendly! Over at STEAK restaurant, which is located at One Warwick Park Hotel on Chapel Place, after spoiling your dad with a celebratory roast and complimentary pint you can perhaps treat him further by treating him to some of the restaurant’s delicious desserts and cocktails – we highly recommend their Eskimo chocolate bars and espresso martinis!

FIT FOR A QUEEN Celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee …. Over the bank holiday weekend celebrating the Queen’s 70 years on the throne One Warwick Park Hotel will be hosting a series of special afternoon teas in order to mark the longest reigning monarch in the history of the UK. In addition to its traditional offering (£25 per person) you can upgrade to a Prosecco afternoon tea (£28.50) or a Champagne one (£28.50) which includes a glass of Louis Roederer Brut. Each one offers a selection of home baked sultana scones, freshly cut finger sandwiches and assorted homemade seasonal sweet treats. The four star hotel located just by The Pantiles is also offering a Children’s Afternoon Tea priced £12.50 per person. Over at Salomons Estate there will be a fantastic family and friends picnic on June 4. Running from midday to 4pm guests are invited to enjoy a delicious picnic prepared by the chef and his team on arrival at the 36-acreestate on Broomhill Road. There will also be a bar on the terrace serving refreshments all day at the ticketed event and plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained including table tennis, scavenger hunt, table football and lawn games. Adult picnics cost £19.50 per person while children’s ones are priced at £10.50 per child.

How to book: Salomons Estate: salomons-estate.com One Warwick Park: onewarwickpark.co.uk

Salomons and Steak restaurant are part of the Elite Leisure Company who also own SO magazine SO Magazine | June 2022 | 41

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Hypnotherapy

Sun, sea and…

stress free! This month our resident hypnotherapist Karen Martin, who is based at Salomon’s Estate, shares some key advice about how to not lose your cool if you’re embarking on your first holiday in a few years…

f you haven’t had a ‘proper’ When possible, make sure your holiday since 2019, you may be booking is protected by authorities who joining the rush for sunnier uphold standards and safeguard against climes and a well-deserved break fraud. In these uncertain economic this summer. There’s been little times, travel companies are going bust respite from the gloomy outlook of the and scammers are taking payment for last couple of years and a decent holiday villas that don’t exist. Word of mouth is just the antidote. Or is it? recommendations are worth more than There’s the usual backlog at the online reviews which could be fake. passport office so woe betide you if you’ve left your renewal too late. The GET ORGANISED ferries are stuck in the docks and the Regular travellers have a checklist of M20 is a lorry park. Before you go near things to do to make a holiday run an airport, you’d better be jabbed or smoothly. This checklist can be mindtested to meet ever-changing Covid bogglingly overwhelming. Never mind regulations which differ from the toothbrush, there are a million country to country. things to forget. Documents, “Traditionally holiday tickets, currency, medication, brochures would be clothes for every kind of weather WHERE TO GO? pored over up to a year disaster, to name but a few. A Traditionally, in simpler times, before travelling but now holiday can be wrecked if you holiday brochures would be pored online choices are proudly run through your over up to a year before travelling completed checklist when you get and the excitement and overwhelming” to the hotel only to find that twoanticipation would start as soon as a year-old Sophie’s favourite Bunnykins booking is made. Now, online choices are overwhelming and reviews make is still on the kitchen table. decisions even more difficult. How do you please a family of four who all have WHAT KIND ARE YOU? different interests? Who gets to choose if There are different styles of she loves laying in the sun and he loves holidaymaker. ‘Military Mum’ is an fell walking? And ‘abroad’ doesn’t seem uber efficient packer who is completely as exotic or far away as it used to be. Just frazzled and hates her ungrateful brood more expensive to get to. for being so unhelpful. On the way to If you only have beer money for the airport, Laid Back Dad’ and champagne destinations, do you go for it ‘Workaholic Dad’ still aren’t sure where and spend the rest of the year paying off they’re going because it’s as much as the credit card or stick to a budget and they could do to turn up. ‘Anxious Eds have less fun? Even cheap family and Annies’ have to go back and check holidays can run into thousands. Is it the house is locked 15 times. Just as well worth risking the expense if the job is they head off with three hours to spare. uncertain or the business struggling? And they need a large gin and three The short answer is often ‘yes’. A diazepam to get them on the plane. holiday is a chance to reset, unwind and get away from the pressures of daily life. PACK MENTALITY You would think that holidays are good If you really can’t live without tea bags for our mental health but that isn’t and Marmite, stay at home. If you don’t always the case. Here is some guidance like the local cuisine, chances are you on how to avoid the catastrophes that won’t like the locals either. At their best, can scupper the best laid plans and lead holidays are happy, memory-making to holiday meltdowns: adventures. After a few weeks back home, arguments are forgotten and the holiday takes on a rose-tinted hue, sunlit AVOID SCAMMERS social media selfies a testimony to a Along with the house and the car, Karen Martin perfect holiday. It’s no wonder we keep holidays are among the biggest going back for more of the dream. purchases we make. Hypnotherapist SO Magazine | June 2022 | 43

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WELL-BEING

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WELL-BEING

“Why now is the time to talk about the menopause…” This month Naomi Murray from Botanica Health emporium in Rusthall looks at the issue of menopause support especially as we are currently going through an HRT crisis

he menopause subject is huge and complex, but it is a period of time all women will traverse through - and have done since time began. I meet so many women who are fearful of this oncoming natural phase of life, primarily due to the media heavily focusing on how terrible it will or can be. While this might be true for some women it certainly isn’t the case for all, and much can be done to support this particular time of life. The Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care says the following: “Menopause is not an illness. It is normal for hormone levels to fall in middle age.” The term ‘menopausal’ actually means the period before the menopause - peri-menopause. The true menopause is a year or so after a woman has her final menstrual period. With this phase may come a sense of one’s youth disappearing with the onset of troublesome physical and emotional challenges. A sadness may arise because a chapter is closing. But another is beginning and the good news is that can be embraced with the right help and understanding.

WHAT’S GOING ON

Popular medical opinion is that when women enter this transition they are facing a disease of ‘oestrogen insufficiency’ resulting in ovarian failure. But oestrogen doesn’t

decrease appreciably until after a woman’s last period. The symptoms mentioned above are due to hormone imbalance. Commonly there is sufficient or too much oestrogen, but insufficient progesterone which can lead to thyroid insufficiency and associated symptoms. Many women go into the menopausal phase oestrogen dominant and so care should be taken when considering oestrogen therapy. Progesterone deficiency is a complex of stress disorders which include excess iron (only supplement with iron under strict advice, don’t assume tiredness is low iron), high cortisol (stress hormone) and low thyroid. Many women entering the perimenopause phase are already exhausted due to pressured lifestyles, nutritional deficiencies, poor sleep patterns and stress and so are running on empty, lacking the raw materials to produce adequate hormones.

START BALANCING HORMONES WITH BREAKFAST

Begin the day with a protein breakfast to nourish the liver so it can do its job properly, detoxifying any excess oestrogen. Eggs are a superfood in their own right and combined with a carbohydrate (sourdough toast) and some good quality fat (butter or coconut oil) will set you up for the day. Choline, an ‘essential’ nutrient found in

“The term ‘menopausal’ actually means the period before the menopause – peri-menopause”

eggs is critical for a number of functions including metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, cell structure, brain function, methylation and maintaining healthy liver function. You can see how it is a perfect food, only lacking vitamin C. A Mediterranean type breakfast can also be very supportive: easy to digest fruits like melon or mango with cheese, dried figs and perhaps a few walnuts. If you have sluggish bowels a breakfast of soaked seeds and nuts blended with fruit can be very effective. Flax (Linseed) appears to be particularly effective at reducing hot flushes and protective against breast cancer.

A CARROT A DAY…

Chronic constipation, and stress which decreases blood circulation in the intestine can increase the liver’s exposure to endotoxins (bad bacteria) which in turn cause the oestrogen concentration in the blood to rise. A daily raw grated carrot drizzled with olive or coconut oil helps to detox the bowel and so lower oestrogen. The raw carrot fibre helps lower the amount of bad bacteria in the gut. Bad bacteria creates a chronic burden for the liver, keeping it from its regular job of processing and regulating hormones. A carrot salad improves the ratio of progesterone to oestrogen and cortisol.

MENOPAUSAL SYMPTOMS

You may experience any of the following – Anger Irritability Forgetfulness Tearful episodes Mood swings Depression Lack of libido Anxiety Hot flushes Insomnia Low self esteem Vaginal dryness Joint pain Allergies Bloating Constipation Breast tenderness Irregular menstrual cycle Palpitations Thinning hair Extra weight around the middle Feeling unable to cope Dry skin

LIVER FUNCTION IS VITAL FOR HORMONE BALANCE

If you have any of the following your liver may need supporting – Stomach upset by greasy food Light or pale coloured stools Pain between the shoulder blades Gall bladder attacks Easily hungover Easily intoxicated when drinking alcohol Bitter taste in the mouth after eating

Milk thistle, bitter salads, digestive bitters, kale, coffee and artichokes all support liver health.

SUPPORTIVE HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS FOR MENOPAUSAL SYMPTOMS

We meet many women who have found the supplements below supportive through the menopause, often eradicating any negative symptoms” Shatavari Chaste tree (Agnus castus) Ashwagandha Milk Thistle Sage Magnesium Vitamin D/K2 Selenium

Naomi Murray

Co-founder of Botanica Health

botanicahealth.co.uk

SO Magazine | June 2022 | 45

Fashion

Local fashion stylist Victoria Genevieve has recently launched her own styling suite and also a new dress hire agency – all designed to help you make the right sartorial choices. Here she tells Eileen Leahy about her unique offering of styling services…

Victoria’s … s t e r c e s e l sty 46 | June 2022 | SO Magazine

ocal fashion stylist Victoria Genevieve has been incredibly busy of late. In addition to launching her exclusive styling suite at One Warwick Park, she has also created a dress hire agency - Genevieve’s Wardrobe - both of which she now runs alongside her existing personal styling business, both locally and in London. And if that wasn’t enough to keep her on her perfectly shod feet Victoria is still carrying out online wardrobe detoxes as well as her weekly Instagram Live shopping sessions at Kitch on the High Street in Tunbridge Wells. These were both borne out of the pandemic when none of us could go shopping and have proved so popular that Victoria has now made them a permanent fixture in her weekly schedule. “I’ve always loved fashion,” she beams as the SO team arrive in her beautiful and bijoux new styling suite at One Warwick Park Hotel. “As a toddler I loved dresses. I was always obsessed with outfits and making them work. And now I just want to make getting dressed fun and effortless.” Victoria launched her independent business Victoria Genevieve Styling in 2004 after having her first child and graduating with a degree from the London College of Fashion. She started her styling work because she says women go through many changes and challenges in life. “That makes us question ourselves and put others first. After having my son, I definitely went through this and wanted to help others who felt the same.” Since then Victoria, now a mother of two, has seen her client list steadily grow – something she cites due to her inherent passion for fashion and natural eye for style. “I think that is very clear to all my clients. They trust me because they know I will get the job done in an effortless and fun way. For me it’s about helping women love the skin they’re in through finding joy in clothes. After studying for three years at the London College of Fashion I can genuinely say that I have proper knowledge and experience and that speaks volumes.” And although there was a period of

Fashion

“Everyone can have a bit of fun in my styling suite – and they’ll also have access to some great fashion pieces”

uncertainty for Victoria during the numerous lockdowns as she couldn’t see her clients face-to-face the talented stylist quickly overcame this with her What to Wear Now virtual parties which proved to be a silver lining thanks to their huge popularity. But now Victoria is finally back to doing what she loves best: personal styling. As well as offering her clients exclusive sessions at high end fashion brand Matches’ townhouse 5 Carlos Place in Mayfair, Victoria is engineering grand plans for her suite at One Warwick Park Hotel. “It launched in February and I want it to be a multi-functioning space. I host both private client sessions and also style parties but my new dress hire agency is now based here too. I’m also running pop-ups with independent designers - I guess I just want to give the town more variety when it comes to fashion.” Victoria reveals she has local stores Fenwick and Kitch onboard and a number of other independents too including Onjenu, Mille Fleurs and TWSeven. She also has the ability to have pieces couriered down from London when required, so it really is quite the impressive sartorial offering. Victoria adds that the styling suite works just as well for one-to-one appointments as it does for small groups such as hen dos or friends – hence her Style Parties offering: “Everyone can have a bit of fun coming here but they’ll also have

access to some great fashion pieces,” explains Victoria. “With the Style Parties I like to do a bit of ‘reverse styling’ too which basically means I show groups how to style up the basics – or a hero piece that only comes out at Christmas. “We’re all guilty of magpie shopping where we pick out something sequinned let’s say - and then it just sits in the wardrobe. What I want to do is show you how to style it for the everyday – with a plain tee and pair of jeans. It’s about making your wardrobe work for you and having fun.” Victoria adds that being based at One Warwick Park means that she can offer different packages where lunch, an afternoon tea or cocktails are included so the choice is very flexible. “The hotel has been so supportive of this venture which is just wonderful.” In addition to all of the above, Victoria’s dress hire agency Genevieve’s Wardrobe will also operate out of the suite. It’s a clever idea where people can hire some of her coveted pieces for as little as £12 a day. “I’m all about sustainable fashion so by doing this I’m hopefully encouraging people to not go out and buy an outfit for a wedding or the races and then never wear it again. By renting one of my pieces you can still have something new for not very much money – and there’s no obligation to wear it again

or spend a for tune.” Labels in Victoria’s rental closet include Johanna Sands, Self Por trait, Ghost, Stine Goya and Ganni. “I’m committed to people buying less. I’d say 70% of the wardrobe detoxes I do are full of bags of unwanted clothes that were bought online and were a mistake because you can’t see the quality or try them on. “What I’m doing here is not ridiculously expensive – I’d say it’s placed and priced somewhere in the middle of high-end boutique and high street. The added extra here is that clients are getting great tips and being styled by me. I guess I’m trying to break the habit of bad purchases and encouraging people to have fun with fashion. It’s not an overnight change, it’s baby steps. “Clothes should make you so happy, give you confidence and make you feel good about yourself. I want people to stop saying to themselves ‘oh that’ll do’. Prioritse yourself!” For info on prices and availability: Web: www.victoriagenevievestyling.com Instagram: @victoriagenevievestyling Email: victoriagenevieve@hotmail.com SO Magazine | June 2022 | 47

Style

In the frame… This month we welcome optician Jamie Edney -who runs Edney & Edney with his optometrist wife Ayshah on Monson Road - as a new SO columnist. Here he opens our eyes to his brands

ver the coming months I will share my thoughts, insights and views on all things eyewear to keep readers ahead of the game as styles change and new innovations are brought to the market in both eyewear and spectacle lens design…. At Edney & Edney we have been building a strong reputation as purveyors of unique, artisan and luxury eyewear in Tunbridge Wells over the past five and a half years. As a result, we have gained national recognition as one of the finest opticians in the UK, thanks to our unparalleled selection of exclusive frames. My aim in this new SO column is to further champion the independent eyewear market and showcase the

importance of technological breakthroughs and advancements. Let me start by explaining what is meant by ‘independent eyewear’. It is generally accepted that there are two or three huge multinational companies that own the rights to produce frames ‘under licence’ for all the big fashion houses and sports brands. And while there is nothing wrong with this, the fact these historic luxury brands have little or no input into the design, manufacture and quality control of frames and sunglasses carrying their name – leads to the question ‘why then so expensive if all of them are produced en mass in the same factories?’ Just a little digging reveals how much these ‘couture’ fashion licences sell for and as such give an

indication of what the end consumer ‘spectacle wear’ is paying for. Independent eyewear on the other hand refers to the worldwide community of small batch eyewear designers, producers, pioneers and champions. Each company is solely committed to frames and sunglasses, not as a ‘side show;’ to clothing, perfume, cosmetics, handbags and the like. Key elements to the passion for innovative eyewear are design, flair and creativity coupled with the sourcing of the finest materials, that are then handmade in their own workshops. This gives the end wearer the most stylish, unique pair of beautifully crafted glasses or sunglasses. All of these amazing independent producers have lots of things in common – especially not least shying away from plastering their creations with visible logos and badges! I am glad to say this small collective of eyewear pioneers is stronger than ever and growing year on year as spectacle wearers look to push the boundaries of style, creativity and quality. Over the coming months I plan to

cover sunglasses, myopia control spectacle lenses for children, luxury materials and eyewear wardrobes. So stay tuned... GET IN CONTACT: www.edneyandedney.com @edneyandedney @edneyandedney @edneyandedney

HERE ARE SOME GREAT WEBSITES TO GIVE YOU A FLAVOUR OF WHAT WE DO AT EDNEY & EDNEY laeyeworks.com theo.be jacquesmarie mage.com mykita.com dita.com kirkandkirk.com orgreenoptics.com garrettleight.eu cutlerandgross.com ahlemeyewear.com

s om en ro wh ng ed tel oki r b o bo ou k H n f y ar po of P u % ick 0” 10 arw Z1 joy W AZ En ne g “J O n at uoti q

Jazz on The Pantiles has returned and we want you to enjoy your Thursday evening to the fullest! Call 01892520587 or email reception@ onewarwickpark.co.uk to make a reservation. Ts&Cs Apply: Only applicable on a Thursday, bookings must be made direct

48 | June 2022 | SO Magazine

Beauty

Everybody loves the sunshine right? Let our resident beauty expert and professional makeup artist, Natalie Piacun from TAW salon on The Pantiles, guide you through a few of her golden highlights for gloing summer skin

hether you are setting off on that long awaited overseas holiday or simply embracing the glorious English summertime, skin protection should be at the top of your holiday checklist as well as part of your daily routine. As much as we love the sunshine, it can also be very harmful to your skin. When looking for SPF protection, look for products that contain effective UV ratings - UVA (protects against skin ageing), UVB (protects against skin burning). Try to find products that contain non-nano zinc oxide – as this doesn’t penetrate the skin. It’s also supposed to be the saftest UV filter for human health, marine life and coral reefs. Ensure to apply all SPF products 30 minutes prior to sun exposure and remember to reapply frequently.

Here's how to trade in dull winter skin for a healthy fresh glow with my five top tips: 1. Fake it ‘til you make it – for a sunkissed glow try NIVEA’s Q10 Firming and Radiance Gradual Tan Body Moisturiser £9.99 400ml This lightweight gradual tanning body lotion moisturises, noticeably firms and improves elasticity within ten days to leave the skin looking and feeling beautiful. Enriched with proven anti-age ingredient Coenzyme Q10, it provides maximum plumping and firming power. With refreshing scents of rose, jasmine, peach and plum mixed with notes of bergamot, it means you can say goodbye to the dreaded “fake tan” smell. 2. A refreshing spritz with NORDIC-C [VALO] GLOW REFRESH HYDRATING MIST £17.90, 100ML Hydrate the complexion with Lumene Nordic-C [Valo] Glow Refresh Hydrating Mist. This radiance-boosting formula contains antioxidant-rich wild Arctic cloudberry and vitamin C, along with pure Arctic spring water for an instant hit of hydration. The product is vegan, containing upcycled and wild-crafted ingredients.

3. Simplify your skincare routine with a face moisturiser and SPF in one with CeraVe’s Facial Moisturing Lotion SPF 50 This is a winning formula of skin-loving ceramides and hyaluronic acid – that’s suitable for all skin types and tones – and has an SPF50 protection plus key ingredients niacinamide and vitamin E to soothe the skin and pollution par ticle protection to protect against skin damage from city pollutants. Developed with dermatologists, the

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summer No nasty bits, earth friendly and made in the UK.

hydrating, lightweight lotion provides a new level of broadspectrum SPF protection, paired with three essential ceramides to help restore and maintain skin barrier integrity against daily damaging UVA and UVB rays.

4. Moisturise and shine with Proshine As a professional make-up artist, I am always on the look out for those hero skincare products, practical and easy to use with a great skin finish. Which brings me to Proshine – a high shine solid body oil. Easy to apply with a moisturising and healing blend containing Soy Wax, Shea Butter and Mango Butter. Seal in moisture for a smooth and nourished skin, as well as protecting skin from environmental damage. Moringa Oil, Tamanu Seed oil help to brighten and add shine, while D Panthenol/Provitamin B5 helps strengthen the skin barrier as well as preventing moisture loss. Tomato Seed Oil aids in healing dry and cracked skin. The woody scent has a citrus edge from a combination of Cedar Leaf Oil, Jasmine Oil, Petitgrain Oil and May Chang Oil.

5. Exfoliate with NORDIC-C [VALO] FRESH GLOW BRIGHTENING MASK £24.90 Incorporate into your skincare routine once or twice a week, this Gel Mask helps to reenergise dull winter skin giving an even skin tone and natural glow. A source of AHAs, Arctic Cloudberry vinegar helps shed dullness and reveal luminous skin, with a super-gentle chemical exfoliation to dissolve dead skin cells and impurities from the skin’s surface. Jam-packed with antioxidants, protecting skin by counteracting environmental aggressors, including UV damage. Please be aware to stop using any treatment with retinol or AHAs three days before your beach outing as these products exfoliate chemically, making the new skin thinner, more delicate, and more susceptible to a burn.

Natalie Piacun TAW salon

4. 5.

For hair and make-up pro lessons please visit Natalie at Taw Salon, 68 The Pantiles, TN2 5TN. www. thomastaw.com

SO Magazine | June 2022 | 49

Interiors

Pembury resident Rachel Hunton recently launched her own candle making business which now also offers fun workshops at her new purpose-built studio. Eileen Leahy discovers more...

ver the past decade or so scented candles have become big business. The findings of a study by the online retailer Vend estimated that British people bought an average of six candles a year at an average price of £7.40, which equates to the UK candle market being worth around £1.9 billion – and it’s an area that’s increasing in further value year on year. With the industry set to be worth double that by 2026 it’s certainly a profitable one to get into. But it was genuine passion rather than profit that inspired local resident Rachel Hunton to launch her own candle making business two years ago. “I have always been a fan of fragrance in any form - whether it’s choosing the right perfume, scented washing powder, or cleaning products,” she explains from her fabulous new studio which is located at her house in Pembury. “From a young age, I was always

50 | June 2022 | SO Magazine

very aware of smells around me and feel strongly that the importance of scent should not be underestimated. They can enhance or deter behaviours, evoke strong emotions and forgotten memories - and the right scent can lift one’s spirits and create relaxing, uplifting or sensual moods depending upon the chosen fragrance.” Rachel then goes on to say that in addition to appreciating nice scents, she has always loved burning candles, too. “A flickering flame is calming and soothing and creates a warm ambiance within the home or garden.” As was the case for most of us, 2020 proved to be a difficult year for Rachel but she says that lockdown actually gave her the push she needed to pursue her dream and launch her own business which she named The Outdoor Candle Company. This she says is primarily because she started making candles to enjoy while dining alfresco. “I learnt a lot by completing an

Interiors

online candle making diploma and cold as they do when lit. All the took part in several candle making candles I sell are handmade in my workshops,” reveals the former workshop and I only use natural primary school teacher. soy wax. I load our candles with But it was a visit to Keyneston 100% cruelty free, paraben free, Mill in Dorset - the beautiful finest blended fragrance oils and gardens and home of Parterre essential oils to provide maximum fragrances – that proved to be a scent throw. real eye-opener and the impetus to “Soy candles have a ‘clean burn’ push on with her idea. and as such are environmentally “This visit was incredibly friendly. In addition, I am inspiring as I was able to committed to using 100% learn how essential oils recyclable or reusable are extracted and containers and the “A flickering distilled from packaging is made flame is calming botanicals. Learning from recycled card. all about that gave I offer a refill and soothing and me an even greater service, providing creates a warm appreciation of the discounted prices ambiance within the as an incentive for wonder of the natural world. When customers to return home or garden” it comes to perfume their used container I’m all about fresh, citrus for a refill.” scents; but when scenting my Rachel says the other chief home however, my tastes are aim is to ensure that the candle completely different and I am making workshops side of the drawn to more warm, woody business takes off. And having scents.” recently experienced a fun session And now Rachel is running her at one of them I am sure it will… business full-time what are her key “Whilst I have spent the last two aims for it? years developing my indoor and outdoor candle collections it was “To produce beautifully scented candles, that look and smell as good always my plan to host candle

making workshops, offering customers the opportunity to make their own candle in an informative, yet relaxing setting. “Finally, after what seemed like a lifetime of building work, the side extension and workshop was completed just before Christmas last year” explains Rachel before saying that she has been hosting both morning and evening workshops since January. “Whilst I love making candles in the tranquillity of the studio, it is hosting the workshop experiences that I am really passionate about. It is great to see people enjoying the space and chatting to others in a relaxed and friendly setting. Everyone who has booked so far has been so complimentary about the studio and about the experience overall.” Rachel says that each workshop lasts approximately two hours and begins with her giving a brief history of candles and candle making. “I also discuss the different types of waxes and techniques that have been used over time and talk about

GET IN TOUCH: The Outdoor Candle Company Workshops with Rachel are priced from £50 but SO readers can enjoy a 20% discount during the month of June by using the code SOTW20 at checkout www.the outdoorcandle company.co.uk info@theoutdoor candlecompany. co.uk or phone 07799452135.

different scents. I then introduce the scent wheel, which classifies the different scents in nature. It is always nice, at this point, to involve the guests and invite them to share their own personal likes and dislikes. “We then take part in a fun ‘scent test’ which involves the guests trying to identify eight different essential oils. It’s funny as this has proved to be quite competitive on occasions! After that, it’s time to get making and so guests select a scent and a container in which to make their candle or candles. I offer the choice of either two small candles, in either glass, amber, tin or copper vessels or one large candle in a glass bowl or ceramic pot. “As candle making is a science as well as an art, each participant – or chandler as I call them needs to weigh out the correct amount of scented oil and wax for their chosen vessel. After glueing the wick in place they are ready to pour!” But it’s not all work says Rachel who reveals that after guests have cleaned their work station, it is time to relax. In the evening that’s with a glass of fizz or a coffee and cake if participating in a morning session. “It’s a nice opportunity to chat to the other attendees, whilst the candles cure. Whilst this is happening, I talk about scent extraction methods and candle care. I am always amazed by how many people do not trim their wicks - which helps your candle to burn cleanly and improves its longevity too!” Rachel says that in terms of visitors to her workshops she sees a mix of both friends seeking something different to do together as well as individuals who want to meet new, likeminded people. She says that private hen or birthday parties can also be catered for. “I’m just so pleased I’ve been able to finally do what I’m passionate about,” she smiles before setting up the large table in her workshop for another fun session of creating flaming beautiful candles…. SO Magazine | June 2022 | 51

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life’s a beach Seaside styling provides the perfect backdrop for summer vibes, says Sam Wylie-Harris

un, sea, sand and a cottage by the sea – or idyllic beach hut. A holiday getaway where the fresh sea air and call of the coast inspires us to throw open the doors and mirror the natural beauty of salvaged wood, sun-bleached shells and nautical stripes dotting the waterfront. The next best thing? Convert your pad into a stylish staycation space where woven baskets and tufty cushions provide texture, sky blues lend a Mediterranean touch, and your inner beachcomber feels right at home. 1. Table Runner (183cm x 37cm), £10, Ibiza Shell Planter, £15, Natural Woven Bread Basket, £5, rest of items from a selection, Matalan Think boho beach style, long lazy lunches, summer soundtrack, muslin billowing and a bowl of fresh fruit on

the table to bring any outdoor space to life. Did someone say Balearic bliss?

2. Nautical Outdoor Blue Starfish Chip ’n’ Dip Bowl, £16, Next Seafood snacks and Mediterranean dips will taste that much more delicious in this statement starfish bowl. 3. Set of 4 Portmore Tumblers, Ink, £20, Portmore Jug, £25, Brading Picnic Basket, £30, Framlingham Picnic Blanket, £80, rest of items from a selection, Garden Trading Glass and rattan are natural bed fellows with picnic spreads and a touch of sea spray. These stackable tumblers are available in Natural or Ink, and would look great mixed together.

4. Blue Wave Cement Planter, £9, Sass & Belle Perfectly suited to a coastal garden or sunny window sill, this perfectlyproportioned planter loves a succulent or cacti. 5. Blue Stripe Cushion, £10 (was £18), Sass & Belle A little bit of Scandi meets beachy bijou, you can never have enough scatter cushions to place among sun loungers, or an oversized sofa or daybed. 6. White Shell Ornament, £16, Matalan Not only will this conch shell style up your tablescape, but it can be used to weigh down your tablecloth if the ‘sea’ breeze picks up.

SO Magazine | June 2022 | 53

Outside edge

Things to do in the Garden this June: Open up the windows in your greenhouse, or cold frame to help air circulate and avoid plants from overheating Harden any remaining bedding plants in readiness for planting out Weed your beds

Colour field… This month Tim Sykes of Gardenproud discusses how oriental grasses combined with perennials can create a low maintenance yet effective way to plant up your garden...

hether you have an enormous plot, or a small town garden, everybody is becoming conscience of the need to create more sustainable environments that we can enjoy and support our fragile ecosystem. Time is precious and clients are looking for simpler gardens to maintain. As a designer I fear that there is a trend towards outdoor spaces with almost zero planting. Please don’t let that happen! The concept of simple, can easily be accommodated, but there is no such thing as `’zero maintenance`! Everything we build, create and grow needs looking after. The solution can be beautiful and sustainable. Yet this is not a new idea. It has been explored and developed by clever plantsmen and women for decades. One very famous exponent of the solution is Piet Oudolf. He has perfected and promoted the new perennial movement. Piet and his wife Anja, who researched plants and techniques for many years, developed a way of combining grasses and perennials to create defined areas in gardens that establish form, colour and design throughout the year requiring little maintenance. One of Piet’s books, published in 2021 in collaboration with Noel Kingsbury “Oudolf Hummelo” documents his obsession with plants and how he nurtured these and his technique to turn his own house and garden in Hummelo, Netherlands into a showpiece for this new perennial movement. 54 | June 2022 | SO Magazine

seasons, with almost zero maintenance. Photo - Hauser & Wirth - Library We’ve also been experimenting with photo from Gap Photos, cleared for use in ready made products, including those sold So Magazine by clever nurseries, such as Pictorial He has famously created many show Meadows. Pictorial sell a whole range of and public gardens, including the meadow grasses containing perennials wonderful showpiece at Hauser & Wirth, and annuals that help you establish in Somerset (which I would highly gorgeous borders almost instantly! recommend visiting) Here the gardens sit We recently designed and built a in stark contrast to the contemporary kitchen garden, and used Hauser & Wirth gallery building. Pictorial’s Woodland Fringe Piet’s other work can be mix as an outer blending seen around the world, border to the scheme. It is including the New York just stupendous! It comes “High Line”, a section of on a wide roll, it flowers disused railway track that “The secret of getting has been transformed this look right is in the first in spring, and keeps on bursting into new into a raised walkway mix of the planting” flower throughout the and garden by Piet and summer. his team. The secret is in the mix Photo - Pictorial of the planting, but also the Meadows - Woodland Fringe, shape of the beds. The effective Meadow Grass combination of these allow the eye to be The principle of the new perennial entertained and seduced and taken on a movement in garden design has been journey through the garden, throughout interpreted by gardeners throughout the the seasons. Pathways and lawned areas world, including our very own Dan break up the shapes and allow the client, Pearson and Andy Sturgeon who have or visitor to walk through the landscape. famously created many gardens The beds themselves remain intact incorporating these principles. throughout most of the year, some plants Andy’s latest garden at Chelsea this dying back to fresh forms and points of year is a combination of naturalistic interest, the whole structure is then simply planting and architectural features that maintained once, or twice a year. are in stark contrast, but somehow coWe are starting to introduce this exist to create a stunning garden for concept with our clients. In some case this Mind, the mental health charity. is using meadow grass to create shape and For more information about the new perennial soften large expanses of pasture, or grass. style and planting techniques that could reduce In others to create simple mixed planting your workload and help to create a more relaxing borders that create a combination of and sustainable space for you, contact Tim Sykes, colour and activity across a number of at Gardenproud on 07725 173820.

Dead head roses and other repeat flowering plants to encourage fresh growth Continue to add earth around your potato plants as they grow

SOME KEY PLANTS FROM PIET OUDOLF’S FIELD AT HAUSER & WIRTH : Rudbeckia subtomentosa Echinops bannaticus Sanguisorba “Red Buttons” Stipa tenuissima “Mexican Feather Grass”

Harvest any lettuce and other salad plants and replant plugs for fresh produce Continue with a regular mowing regime and keep your lawn edges trimmed If you haven’t cut back your box yet, pick a cooler couple of days and trim and shape your topiary before the temperature rises Don’t forget to water your plants regularly, early morning, or late afternoon

Veronicastrum virginicum “Album” Echinacea pallida Helenium “Moerheim Beauty” Hylotelephium “Matrona” Imperata cylindrica “Rubra” Anemone x hybrida “Robustissima”

Tim Sykes

Garden Proud

Outside edge

decided to replace a large grass bank with a beautiful three-dimensional rose border filled with large flowered specimen roses that can be seen from all angles, thanks to the gentle slope of the ground there. “We already had our Emily Dickinson rose border inspired by the American poet and her homestead garden in New Hampshire filled with shrub roses, but we wanted to do even more! And this new addition really has added some extra romance to this area. As you pass this corner of the Estate, you can’t fail to be impressed by the large blooms of Enchantress, a beautiful deep pink hybrid tea or the

exquisite scent of Global Beauty, a strong growing hybrid tea with large double deep yellow blooms atop glossy green foliage.” Hever Castle & Gardens is home to an incredible range of roses including the botanically apt Anne Boleyn roses by David Austin, which cloak the edges of the Tudor Garden, as well as the Hever Rose, by Bill LeGrice. Neil explains: “We have roses bred by Peter Beales and if I’m pressed to answer which rose is my favourite then I have to go for Peter Beale’s’ Buxom Beauty - the scent of this hybrid tea rose is absolutely stunning and the huge pink double blooms have such oomph and beauty!”

SYMBOL OF THE TUDORS

Why Hever’s in bloom this June

As five thousand roses come into flower at Hever Castle & Gardens, head gardener Neil Miller tells Vikki Rimmer why this enigmatic flower beloved of the Tudors is so indelibly inked in his heart…

nown as ‘the Queen of Flowers’, roses have symbolised love, beauty, royalty and sensuality in art and literature from Renoir to Shakespeare. And this year at the famous Hever Castle, the rose will take centre stage in their annual celebration of summer colour: Hever in Bloom. Rose expert and the castle’s head gardener Neil Miller, is known to wax lyrical on this most emblematic flower, which also has a special place at the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. “We love the month of June with a passion at Hever as over five thousand roses come into bloom in the Italian Gardens, in the Tudor Garden and in our Emily Dickinson inspired border.” With the rose sitting centre stage in so much of art and literature, it’s entirely fitting that there’s an artistic focus to this year’s Hever in Bloom as visitors to the Rose Garden will be able to not just literally smell the roses but also enjoy botanical art and rose buttonhole workshops. The botanical workshops

HEVER IN BLOOM WILL RUN FROM: JUNE 20 -26. Weekday tours of the garden will commence at 11:30am and 2pm Felix Green will be giving his botanical workshops at 12.10 and 2.40pm straight after the 40 min rose garden tour and florist Emma will be delivering rose button hole workshops at the same time on weekdays. Tickets are available here www.hevercastle.co.uk

will be delivered twice a day (on weekdays) by artist Felix Green and Neil and his team will provide twice-daily tours of the gardens. Neil explains: “Felix is a talented member of our team and not only is he a fantastic gardener but he’s also a wonderful artist too so it will be great to see what he creates during his ‘artist in residence’ spot in the garden.” Neil’s own love of roses began at an early age in his mother’s back garden in Croydon where he deadheaded his first rose. It’s fair to say that with thousands roses onsite at Hever and a 20 year career here, Neil has now deadheaded close to one million roses! An ode to Emily Dickinson can be found in a shrub rose border inspired by the poet’s New England garden. Visitors can discover an area here planted with roses classified as ‘nostalgic large flowered roses’ like Global Beauty and Pink Martini sourced from Rumwood Nurseries in Maidstone - the biggest producer of roses in the south east. Neil says: “During the restrictions last year, we

This year Hever in Bloom will also encourage visitors to step inside the childhood home of Anne Boleyn and take a closer look at the Tudor roses that adorn the woodwork in the Inner Hall and the decorative ceiling work as well as view the16th century Hever Castle owned portrait of Anne Boleyn which depicts one of England’s most famous queen’s holding a red rose. Created during her daughter Elizabeth I reign, the portrait hangs in the Long Gallery at Hever Castle.

However, while some will head indoors to view these amazing treasures, you’ll find Neil Miller in the rose garden from early in the morning, keen to make the most of the roses. “Hever in Bloom is such a special time of year for me - the days are at their longest and the aromas in the garden provide a heady scent that entices us to stay for the entire day!”

SO Magazine | June 2022 | 55

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Travel

So near, so spa… … Feel like getting away from it all but not going too far? Then a trip to Careys Manor in the New Forest is the perfect solution says Karen Martin

f you’re going away for a few days, it makes sense to go somewhere beautiful and easy to get to. It’s a mistake to top and tail a short break with hours of motorway travel or airport hassle. That puts the New Forest high on my list of favourite weekend destinations. From West Kent, it’s a mere two hours’ drive with a choice of motorways or scenic routes. This verdant National Park, famed for its wild horses, is a brilliant, all round location. As a carefree student, when comfort was not a priority and counting the pennies was, we would chuck a tent in the boot on the spur of the moment and drive a convoy of our rickety old bangers to a campsite near a pub for boozy walking weekends. Back then, campsites like Sandy Balls near Fordingbridge had pretty basic facilities and that suited us fine. This and many others like it have since transformed themselves into holiday parks and glamping sites.

“Dodging Bank Holiday airport chaos was one of the big pluses of heading for the New Forest on a gloriously sunny spring weekend”

These are fun places to stay for the families who flock to the Forest for the combination of scenic countryside and coastline, activity centres and theme parks. Thanks to the pandemic, staycations have been firmly placed back on the map. In previous years, cheap short haul flights made ‘abroad’ more accessible and interesting for many. However, foreign city breaks and southern European sunshine take longer to get to and cost more than the simple pleasures of holidays in the UK. Dodging Bank Holiday airport chaos was one of the big pluses of heading for the New Forest on a gloriously sunny spring weekend. Having left behind the happy camping days many years ago, the creature comforts of Careys Manor and SenSpa were a blissful sanctuary for a day or two away from a hectic life. This award-winning hotel has French, English and Thai restaurants and lovely spa facilities. It came highly recommended by

friends so I was surprised by mixed online reviews. Given that most people check these nowadays, it’s worth mentioning that some of the criticisms weren’t reflected in my experience. Staff were welcoming, our suite spacious and comfortable, with the added benefit of a private terrace, and the bathroom spotless and luxurious. It would take several return visits to enjoy the lengthy menu of spa treatments and do justice to the pool and wellequipped gym. A delightful Thai massage followed by dinner in the Zen Garden did not disappoint. There is a range of spa packages and the Brockenhurst hotel is well located for its New Forest Cycling Break, including bikes for hire and accommodation. The 18th century manor is also a popular wedding venue. As an exploring base, Careys Manor is great. It’s surrounded by New Forest National Park woodland and heath. Within a short drive are the coastal resorts of Lymington and Milford and miles of seaside walks. Beaulieu isn’t far and worth a visit for its

motor museum and garden sculptures. On the way home it’s easy to detour to the cities of Southampton, for shopping and Winchester for its street cafe vibe and historic beauty. A cross country amble back to Kent is a lovely way to round off a relaxing weekend. We revisited Winchester Cathedral before heading on to National Trust house and gardens at Hinton Ampner and having a late lunch in one of the many delightful gastropubs in the scenic Meon Valley. Those with more time than we had could nip over to Marwell Zoo or drop in on the RHS Gardens at Wisley before braving the M25. From roughing it in my student days to enjoying spa luxury now, the New Forest is somewhere I’ll return to again and again. It has something for every kind of weekender. If you’re nine or ninety, rich or poor, like hiking or lounging, love cream teas or world class cuisine, want a romantic weekend or a family adventure, it’s got it all. Rooms at Careys Manor start at £209. stay@careysmanor.com SO Magazine | June 2022 | 57

Motors

UK Drive:

It’s obviously no sports car, but doesn’t come undone on a winding country road, though keen drivers would still be best served by a BMW 5 Series. What does let the side down somewhat, however, is the hybrid engine. When the petrol unit kicks in it can be rather loud, with a slightly rough sound, undoing much of the great refinement work, especially

LEXUS ES

Mercedes-Benz, Audi and BMW dominate the executive car market, but Lexus offers something a little bit different. Darren Cassey tries the new ES WHAT IS IT?

There are typically two ways to sell cars. You either do what everyone else does and try to grab a slice of the big pie, or target the people who just want something a little bit different, nabbing a smaller pie all to yourself. Lexus firmly falls into the latter. Sure, you could buy yourself a BMW 5 Series, Audi A6 or Mercedes-Benz E-Class like everyone else, but the Lexus ES offers another option that says you don’t follow the crowd. It looks like little else on the road, and that’s half its appeal.

WHAT’S NEW?

The seventh-generation model received revisions for the 2022 model year, with new handling, styling, safety and specification features to enhance its appeal. Inside, the multimedia system has been upgraded to include a 12.3-inch display, which can be controlled through touch, voice control, or Lexus’s annoying trackpad, which is supposed to work like a laptop but instead makes navigating menus incredibly awkward. There’s also an optional digital side view monitor to replace the wing mirrors, and a new 58 | June 2022 | SO Magazine

adaptive LED headlight system. Keen eyes will also spot some subtle styling tweaks, while handling and comfort is said to be improved through chassis changes. F Sport versions are said to be better to drive through tweaks to the adaptive suspension.

WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?

You’ll find just the one engine option in the ES – but what it lacks in choice it makes up for in using a tried-andtested unit. It’s a ‘self-charging’ hybrid, so there’s no plugging it in to top up the battery. An electric motor is paired with a 2.5-litre petrol engine for a combined 212bhp. While it doesn’t quite have the crazy high economy figures of a plug-in, its official figures are 50.4-53.2mpg.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

Refinement is impressive in the ES, particularly in the high-specification Takumi trim. At motorway speeds the ride is comfortable and there’s not too much wind and road noise, making it a comfortable place to wile away the miles.

under acceleration. It also doesn’t feel like you drive around in EV mode as much as you might like at low speeds.

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?

The interior has a quirky style too – though it’s not at the expense of quality, with all the materials you touch feeling worthy of the premium tag. There’s good adjustability for the driver and it’s spacious, while ergonomics are well-judged so everything feels close to hand. The new 12.3-inch touchscreen is decent, feeling responsive to the touch with a high resolution, though infotainment remains a weak point for Lexus, with menu navigation not the most intuitive. The annoying track pad remains, but at least you can bypass its use through the touchscreen.

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

Prices start at £38,765 for the regular ES 300h, which brings an eight-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 17-inch alloy wheels, reversing camera, sunroof and driver assistance features. Step up to the Premium Edition from £39,265 and you get 18-inch alloy wheels, the larger infotainment screen with sat nav, while the F Sport starts at £40,930 and gets some sporty exterior upgrades, 19-inch alloy wheels and drive mode selection. The top-specification Takumi model is a big jump in price, starting at £52,315. This gets 18-inch alloy wheels, semi-aniline leather upholstery, 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium sound system, head-up display, LED headlights with adaptive high beam and a 360-degree panoramic view monitor.

FACTS AT A GLANCE MODEL: Lexus ES STARTING PRICE: £38,765 ENGINE: 2.5-litre petrol and electric motor POWER: 215bhp TORQUE: 221Nm MAX SPEED: 112mph 0-60MPH: 8.7 seconds MPG: 50.4-53.2 EMISSIONS: 125g/km CO2

VERDICT

There’s a lot to like about the Lexus ES. It’s stylish and stands out from the crowd, while the hybrid powertrain and Lexus’ reliability record means it should offer excellent running costs. It has a pleasant cabin and a generally refined driving experience, too. Sure, if we’re being objective the overall experience lags slightly behind the big German manufacturers, but for those buyers who don’t want to follow the crowd, the Lexus ES makes a compelling case for itself.

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