So Tunbridge Wells February 2016

THE LOOK OF

LOVE Pretty style picks for Valentine’s Day THE NEW

LEXUS RX Smooth and stylish driving in this luxury motor

TUNBRIDGE WELLS THE TOWN WHERE THE STARS ARE SHINING

the

SECRETS of a

CHAUFFEUR

What was left in his car by a bride?

An

INDIAN ADVENTURE

Rosemary Shrager reveals all about her new TV series WONDERFUL WEALDEN

WEDDINGS the

ULTIMATE GUIDE

for brides

THE

MAYNE MAN WHY EDDIE REDMAYNE IS THE ONE TO WATCH

FEBRUARY 2016 WWW.SOMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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.JUST SAY THE WORD

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M A G A Z I N E

CONTENTS

SO

EDITOR’S LETTER

16 Lonsdale Gardens Tunbridge Wells Kent TN1 1NU Tel: 01892 779 650 www.somagazine.co.uk

EDITOR Charlie Bond cbond@onemediauk.co.uk HEAD OF DESIGN Rowena Cremer-Price rcremer-price@onemediauk.co.uk HEAD OF SALES Joe De Kwant Stoner jstoner@onemediauk.co.uk EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Richard Moore rmoore@onemediauk.co.uk PUBLISHED BY

WELCOME TO YOUR FEBRUARY ISSUE OF SO February is the month of love, but, if like me rather than being whisked off to Paris or treated to a romantic meal for two your partner is unlikely to sweep you off your feet, we’ve got plenty in this issue for you to fall in love with instead. From the gorgeous cover star Eddie Redmayne who is up for his second Oscar this month on page 38 to the latest fashions to fall in love with on page 47, who needs flowers and chocolates?

Staying with love, this issue we bring you our fantastic So Weddings guide which has everything you need to create your perfect day. We’ve spoken to real brides who offer their wedding tips, we’ve tried the best beauty products so you’ll look flawless in front of the camera, and don’t get me started on the gorgeous array of wedding gowns gracing the pages…I’ve tried not to look too much in case I get dress envy and have second thoughts about mine!

Elsewhere, fall in love with this month’s selection of beautiful Wealden homes, (169) book a dreamy holiday to sunnier climes (138) and discover how to make toast a little

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.

CONTENTS 10 NEWS

more exciting (121).

See, who needs a bouquet of roses? Although if I do get whisked away, I promise not to be smug about it…

EDITOR cbond@onemediauk.co.uk

A-list actress

65 WEDDED BLISS

arrives

Your wedding guide for spring

11 LETTERS Carrier bags cause

97 SOCIAL

confusion

Pickering welcomes Mondays

24 STUNNING SUNRISE Early morning

107 CELEBRITY SPOTTING

views at Bewl

Why Tunbridge Wells is well connected

38 THE CELEBRITY

157 INTERIORS

Eddie Redmayne

All things bright

is the one to watch

and beautiful

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Ri'

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The difference is in the detail

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SO

NEWS

Tunbridge Wells

NEWS

OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT SOME OF THE LOCAL STORIES MAKING THE HEADLINES

CATE COMES TO CROWBOROUGH If rumours are to be believed, Crowborough could soon have an A-List celebrity living within the town. Actress Cate Blanchett is thought to have purchased Highwell House in Rotherfield – a seven bedroom Victorian country house with a price tag of £3.25million.

The Oscar-winning Australian actress, who is best known for her roles in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit is said to have purchased the mansion last month, and will be moving in with her husband theatre director Andrew Upton, and their four children Dashiell John, Roman Robert, Ignatius Martin and adopted daughter Edith Vivian Patricia.

BRIDAL BLOOMS

BEWL BOOST

RAIL RAGE A petition launched by disgruntled passengers calling for Southeastern’s rail franchise to be revoked has amassed over 10,000 signatures – meaning that the government is required to respond The appeal comes soon after the operator, which runs the services through Tunbridge Wells, blamed ‘strong sunshine’ for a series of delays. A deadline for the petition has been set at June 6, with 100,000 needed for a parliamentary debate.

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Bewl Water is due for a major upgrade aimed at boosting local tourism after the latest investment plans were announced by its new owners last month.

Markerstudy Leisure, which completed the deal to acquire the lease to operate Bewl Water Country Park on January 8, unveiled a raft of improvements aimed at boosting tourism to the reservoir.

Describing it as the ‘jewel in the crown’ for the local community, Andrew Daniels, chief operating officer of Markerstudy Leisure, said the ‘ambitious’ plans would give Bewl ‘the love and attention it deserves.’

Among the initiatives announced is the immediate reduction in parking charges from £8 to £2, alongside the complete refurbishment of the visitor centre and nearby sailing clubhouse.Both are timetabled to be reopened by April.

A Tunbridge Wells florist is hoping for awards success, after being shortlisted in the 2016 UK Wedding Awards.

Darling & Wild has been selected by a panel of industry experts and is now in the running to scoop ‘best wedding florist’ in the inaugural awards.

Owner Lara Haynes is delighted to be selected from hundreds of entries nationwide and now is looking for the support of her local community to win the public vote before voting closes on February 11. www.theukweddingawards.com

RACING AHEAD Frant-based motor sports team Jota Sport have announced they will be signing up a former F1 driver as they gear up for the start of the racing season.

Giedo van der Garde, who made 19 Grand Prix starts with the Caterham F1 team in 2013, will be racing with Simon Dolan and a retained Harry Tincknell during this year’s European Le Mans Series.

The team, which won the famous 24-hour race in 2014 and came second last year, have also signed up for the FIA World Endurance Championship, which will see the team compete on a global stage.

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LETTERS

SO

... AND VIEWS

THIS IS WHERE YOU HAVE YOUR SAY ON WHAT’S HAPPENING IN AND AROUND TUNBRIDGE WELLS

LETTER OF THE MONTH

TUNBRIDGE WELLS TREND FORECAST

2016 TUNBRIDGE WELLS JANUARY 2016 WWW.SOMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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HAPPY READER

ROYAL GREETING I’ve recently moved to the area, and my grandchildren came to stay for the first time a few weeks ago. Imagine my surprise when they arrived at my doorstep wearing their finest clothes. Apparently, the ‘royal’ in the town’s name gave them the impression they might bump into the Queen!

JUDY TOMPSETT, Langton Green Ed: If you wanted them on their best behaviour, you should’ve told them she was coming to tea!

NOISY PARKER The other day I was driving around, looking for a parking space, when I saw a man standing by his car in Mount Sion.

Thinking he might be about to vacate his spot, I wound down the window and politely asked him whether he was leaving. His response? “Does it bloody look like it?” followed by a string of expletives. I hope he got a parking ticket.

VICTORIA COLEBROOK, Tunbridge Wells Ed: We’d hate to see the tirade the parking warden would get if he did though…

CARRYING ON While I appreciate the reasons behind the 5p carrier bag charge,

sometimes I feel a little discretion from shop staff would go a long way.

I recently ordered some potpourri in the sales, and collected it from M&S in the town. It came in a rather large, rather unnecessary brown box, and acknowledging that I wouldn’t want to carry the huge package through town, the assistant offered to put the items in a bag for me – which I was then charged 5p for. Surely it’s the store’s own fault for excessively packaging the small items in the first place, and I shouldn’t have to pay the penance?

Ed: Perhaps you could fashion the carrier bag into some more potpourri?

I would just like to say how much I have enjoyed this month’s magazine. There’s so much to read – not just your normal free magazine; restaurants, decorating, places to eat, and places to visit. I’m thinking of joining the National Trust, not just for myself but for my son and his wife as they have a little dog.

Keep up the good work – your team do you proud. I’m looking forward to the next edition!

SALLYANN SHIELDS, by email Ed: Thanks for the lovely feedback – enjoy your NT membership!

COFFEE COMPLAINT I have to disagree with Alice from Paddock Wood’s rant about coffee culture in your January issue. Just because she isn’t a fan of coffee doesn’t mean the rest of us shouldn’t enjoy a cup – independent coffee shops are driving our high streets forward and bringing business to areas where it was dwindling. No, we don’t all like hot drinks but I don’t drink alcohol and yet I don’t berate those saying “let’s go for a drink” even if I’m only going to have an orange juice…

HEATHER GALES, Tunbridge Wells Ed: We’re happy to take a coffee, juice or wine…now who’s buying?

Email cbond@onemediauk.co.uk or write to us at SO TW, 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU Please be sure to include your full name and address. Letters may be edited for publication.

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HAPPY DIAMONDS

By Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen Jeweller G Collins & Sons Limited Royal Tunbridge Wells

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---------. •--------63 High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TNl lXU Tel. 01892 534018 I Fax. 01892 510536 Email. info@gcollinsandsons.com I www.gcollinsandsons.com

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SO

INTERVIEW

A DAY IN THE LIFE

ON THE WAY

Chauffeur, Russell Meek from Tunbridge Wells talks us through his role in a wedding day…

I

decided to make a change from my London job in the film industry in 1998 and wanted a local job that would fit around my family. A friend had recently started a chauffeuring agency and asked me to join him as a self-employed driver. So I set up Driving Force Chauffeurs, bought my first Mercedes and started my new career. I’ve never looked back – unless I’m reversing!

SETTING OFF Having checked the roads are clear, I always set off in plenty of time. The invention of the Traffic Master and SatNavs have been a godsend for chauffeurs. As a professional with over a million miles of driving under my belt, I don’t get flustered.

I’ve dealt with almost every situation imaginable over the years and it’s a big part of my job to keep calm.

RAIN CHECK On the day of a wedding, I get up early.

I like to be prepared for anything and be totally organised so the day goes smoothly.

The first thing I do is check the weather!

I always cross my fingers for a warm, dry day but as I do weddings all year round I don’t always get my wish.

POLISH AND PREP I have three cars, and whichever I’m using, I valet inside and check that there is plenty of bottled water and mints – good for dry mouths! I wash and polish the car so it’s sparkling and decorate it with flowers and ribbons. I clean them before every job, which sometimes can be two or three times a day – much to the amusement of the neighbours.

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AISLE BE THERE There is always someone from the bridal party around when I arrive, so I quietly tell them that I am there when they are ready to go. That way no-one panics about where I am.

From experience I would say that a bride has never come out when she says she’s going to!

MIND THE DRESS I can and do help the bride to get her dress into the car, but my advice to the bride and bridesmaids is always the same – “Put your bottom on the seat first, and then swing your legs round and the dress will follow.”

In my experience most brides are pretty calm, unless they’re hiding their nerves well!

It’s more likely that the bride’s mother will be the one with the jitters. The brides talk about lots of things – everything from wondering if they’ve fed the dog to how much they’re looking forward to the honeymoon.

A WELCOME RECEPTION Sometimes on arrival at receptions, the photographer is there to take photos of the bride and groom getting out of the car, and I am there of course to open doors and do anything else necessary for the shoot. In most instances once the photos are taken, I am free to go home. Then my day finishes when I get home, take the ribbons off my car and vacuum out the confetti.

LOST PROPERTY I always check as soon as they leave the car at the ceremony to make sure that nothing has been left behind. However, I recently had a situation where the bride’s blue garter dropped to the ground whilst getting into the car. I had to discreetly pick it up and give it back to her once she was settled in the back. I’m glad I remembered and didn’t leave it in my pocket – it wouldn’t have been very lucky otherwise! www.drivingforcechauffeurs.co.uk Twitter: @RussellMeek Instagram: Russellfmeek

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EVENTS

SO

FEBRUARY

CALENDAR 5TH » Getting Quizzical

DAVID ROBBINS

Test your general knowledge and raise money for charity at the same time, by taking part in Hospices of Hope’s quiz night on Friday February 5. Taking place in Woods Restaurant in Tunbridge Wells, teams of four to six people can enjoy a light supper before battling it out over eight rounds to be named the quiz champions.

The event begins at 7pm. Tickets cost £12 per person and are available at www.hospicesofhope.co.uk

13TH » Feathered Friends

Support National Nest Box Week at Hever Castle’s ‘Living with Birds’ this half term and enjoy some family fun. Nature expert, Tim Christian returns to lead a bird box building workshop (£6 in addition to entrance fee). Building a bird box to take home contributes to the conservation effort in the UK while giving you the pleasure of observing any breeding birds you attract to the garden.

For further information visit www.hevercastle.co.uk or call 01732 865 224.

13TH » Making Music

Tonbridge Philharmonic Society see the return of their successful choir workshop on Saturday February 13, focusing on Mozart’s Requiem. Under the professional baton of the society’s dynamic music director, Matthew Willis, the singing workshop, open to all level of ability singers, promises to provide participants with new insights into the technique of singing and performing.

Tickets cost £20 and include tea and cake. To apply, visit www.tonphil.org.uk

13TH » Get The Bug

Penshurst Place is seeking budding young naturalists to join a bug hunt that will be running over February half term. Learn more about the life and habitats of Britain’s native beetles and insects by following a fun and educational trail around the gardens. For a special treat, visit Penshurst Place when it opens on the weekend of 13 and 14 February for a chance to interact with some charming creepy crawlies and more cuddly mammals at a Beasts Roadshow run by visiting specialists from The Hawking Centre.

For prices and information, visit www.penshurstplace.com

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EVENTS

13TH » Enchanted Exploring

NT/JONATHAN BUCKLEY

Visit Groombridge Place over February half term and enjoy the great outdoors as part of their wild adventure week. Start your outdoor adventure by picking up a leaf trail exploration sheet before making a journey stick to take on your walk through the forest. Everyone can also enjoy den building in a special forest clearing, explore Crusoe’s world and take a seat on giant tree swings.

Tickets from £9.45. For information and to book, visit www.groombridgeplace.com

13TH » Dockyard Discovery

Budding scientists will want to head to Chatham Dockyard from February 13 to 21 as Doc. Yard, The Historic Dockyard’s brilliant but slightly eccentric resident professor, is away on another intrepid expedition and his trusty assistant Bunsen needs their help.

Kids will have the chance to become intrepid Techsplorers, taking part in a series of ‘cool’ experiments, including the solid CO2 spectacular.

Doc. Yard’s Secret Lab runs throughout the day from 10.30am until 3pm. To find out more, visit www.thedockyard.co.uk

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14TH » Tea for Two

Treat a loved one to a delicious Valentine’s afternoon tea at Sissinghurst Castle.

Indulge in selection of open finger sandwiches, fresh cakes and scones and tea or coffee in the Granary restaurant, before exploring the grounds. There’s the opportunity to take a stroll through the International Garden Photographer of the Year exhibition too.

Afternoon tea costs £17.50 for two and runs from 1pm to 3.30pm. Booking essential on 01580 710 704

16TH » Paper Crafting

Learn a new skill this half term at the Tunbridge Wells Museum, with their plenty of paper workshops.

If you were inspired by their Wycinanki show, try your hand at the paper arts – people of all ages are invited to have a go in these free sessions, which run from Tuesday February 16 to Friday February 19.

Sessions run from 10.30am to 12.30pm and from 2pm to 4pm. www.tunbridgewellsmuseum.org

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EVENTS

SO

20TH » Love is in the Air

It’s the month of love, so what better time to try and meet your match? On Saturday February 20, The Dating Diary are hosting a Valentine’s drinks party at The Camden Quarter in Tunbridge Wells. For ages 39 plus, this is the perfect opportunity to meet and mingle. Tickets are £17, and the price includes a drink. The event begins at 7.30pm and the dress code is ‘dress to impress’.

To book, or for more information visit www.thedatingdiary.co.uk

20TH » Steaming Ahead

Have an enchanting day out at the Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterden where everyone can have fun with Thomas the Tank Engine and some of his favourite friends On February 13,14, 20 and 21.

All trains will be hauled by Thomas himself, so hop on and travel behind him as many times as you like between Tenterden and Rolvenden Stations. Meet Rusty and Dusty, Sir Topham’s mischievous comedy sidekicks. Enjoy Balloon modelling and magic shows and watch thrilling adventures with Thomas on the station’s big screen TV. Tickets from £13 and can be booked by calling 01580 765 155 or by visiting www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk

21ST » Ready, Steady

If you’re one of the dedicated few who stuck to their New Year’s resolution to get fitter, then put all those gym sessions to good use and sign up to take part in the Tenterden five mile race. Beginning in the pretty village of Wittersham at the Village Hall, you’ll run down picturesque country lanes before reaching the finish line in Tenterden – where there’ll be a medal and hot, homemade soup waiting!

The race begins at 10.30am and entry costs from £13. All proceeds go to fundraising for Wittersham Village Hall. www.nice-work.org.uk

27TH » Seeing Stars

Spend an evening learning more about what goes on in the night sky, at National Trust’s Sheffield Park in Uckfield on Saturday February 27. Learn to navigate the stars with the aid of the Seven Sisters Astronomical Society, and there’s the chance to spot the constellations Orion and Taurus. Children can also tick off number 27 on their 50 Things list.

Tickets are from £8.50, and include supper and a hot drink.

The event begins at 6.30pm.

To book, call 01825 790 231

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OUT AND ABOUT

 EARLY RISER

PICTURE BY CRAIG MATTHEWS

Morning views across Bewl Water

Have you got a local picture you’d like to see printed?

Email info@somagazines.co.uk

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS

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SO

MY RANT

OUT OF LINE

When we stop queuing, we’ve stopped caring, believes Georgette from Hawkenbury AS MUCH AS we protest that we don’t, we Brits love to queue. I can’t think of a time that anyone has ever said “do you know what? I’d much rather battle a hoard of other shoppers to one till at the front in the hopes I’ll get served first, rather than wait patiently for two minutes.”

Nobody is better than us at queuing. I’ve been to Japan, where all you have to do is stop to pause and look in a window and a row of unquestioning pedestrians form a line behind you. And yet, us Brits are still famed for our ways. Visit the Post Office, doctor’s surgery or supermarket and you’ll spot a line

of us diligently waiting our turn, probably proffering the odd tut along the way.

Generally, we like a bit of order in our lives.

We like breakfast in the morning and dinner at night, reading books from front to back and drinking tea from a cup, rather than say, straight from the kettle. Rules are rules. And we like rules.

Well, some of us do, and that’s the trouble.

There are a select minority of people who don’t believe that these rules apply to them.

I’m not talking about the people who steal, kill or harm animals – there’s a separate category (and a few choice words) for those

people. No, I’m talking about those who just think that queuing isn’t something they should trouble themselves with.

The other day, I was in my car, waiting at the traffic lights in Tunbridge Wells which join Prospect Road, Bayhall Road and Pembury Road. I wanted to turn right, but a large van in the left hand lane meant I couldn’t move past with the oncoming traffic. So, I waited patiently and indicated.

The car behind me was less patient, and pulled around me, with scant regard for the vehicles heading its way. Overtaking a slow vehicle I can understand, but what was the point in this reckless manoeuvre, just to sit a little closer to the traffic lights?

The recent sale season brought out the worst in shoppers too. In many shops I saw customers waiting with baskets full of items, but being usurped by people who seemed oblivious to anybody else waiting.

They just pushed their way to the front and tuned out the chorus of audible sighs and tuts following their actions.

The more attuned you are to this behaviour, the more noticeable it becomes.

On a daily basis, people go out of their way to get one step ahead of us, and it’s become so de rigueur that most of the time, we blank it out. How often have you been waiting to ask a colleague a question, only for someone else to cut in and grab their attention first? How many Friday nights are spent waiting at the bar to get a drink, opening your mouth to place your order and someone else thrusting their tenner across the counter quicker than you can say “G&T”? I’ll bet you don’t even register these occurrences, so often does someone else put their own worth above yours.

Our problem is, we don’t speak up against these vulgar beings. Maybe if we did, they’d start realising that their behaviour is far from acceptable.

Then again, if we started voicing our aggravations, we wouldn’t have a reason to tut, and where would we be then?

DO YOU HAVE A RANT YOU’D LIKE TO RELEASE? Email your views, in no more than 600 words, to Editor Charlie Bond: cbond@onemediauk.co.uk. We won’t publish anonymous letters and contact details must be supplied, but if you’d prefer not to be named in print, please make this preference clear.

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25/01/2016 12:04

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SO

CONFIDENTIAL

BY TACITUS

NOTHING ESCAPES OUR ATTENTION WHO needs to take more notice of his wife’s earrings?

That would be the chap who bought a pair for his better half as a birthday gift only to discover they were the wrong type. After unwrapping them she declared: “I never, ever wear dangling earrings – you should know that. Ten years we have been together and you have never even noticed my earrings.”

You just can’t win!

WHICH

WHO

WHY

WHO

local councillor sneaks freebie plastic bags?

The one who shops at M&S for his lunch and hates to pay the extra 5p for a bag. At the self-check out he presses the button for ‘no bag’ and then helps himself to one. Where are the bag police when you want them?

was hard pressed to enjoy this local hostelry?

The two young mums on a night out who were hustled and bustled when they tried to stand near the restaurant’s busy bar. They told friends: “It was worse than being on a crowded commuter train. At least passengers keep their hands to themselves”

is this woman crying over her pet guinea pig?

Because neighbours keep a ‘hunting dog’ in their back garden and the animal could not resist jumping over the fence, knocking over the guinea pig run and devouring the poor thing.

has raised some eyebrows in the office?

The marketing man who has fallen for the charms of a much younger colleague. It’s a bit like the reverse of a cougar and he is more than happy to tell friends (and foe) about why there is a spring in his step. It’s the tennis that keeps him young!

WHY

WHICH

WHO

WHY

does this business woman not always answer her mobile?

Because she is, according to close friends, being stalked by her ex who still wants to be part of her life. She now refuses to pick up ‘no caller ID numbers’. What happens when he knocks at your front door?

bride is giving her groom a false impression?

Answer the one who has repeatedly declared she is on a crash diet for the big day which is not exactly true. In fact it is so not true she has ordered a wedding dress a size bigger than she is boasting. She will wear a size 12 instead of a size 10.

is so out of touch with working in an office?

The chap who has no idea about how being PC rules the workplace. The calendar he placed on his desk for the New Year displayed the charms of certain young ladies. Needless to say it has not gone down well or enhanced his career prospects. It has been removed.

did this shopper get a big surprise at Royal Victoria Place?

The woman forgot she was carrying security tags in her bag and as she walked through the doors of a store the alarms went off. She explained she was taking the tags, normally attached to clothes, between retail sites as part of her business. Leave them in your car!

Got a rumour? Pass it on via confidential@onemediauk.co.uk We never reveal our sources

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Concerned about your home being sold to fund your future care fees?

The Issue You probably own your home as joint tenants if you are a couple and solely if you are single. For couples this means you own it wholly, jointly and severally. Ultimately therefore you do not own it 50:50 as you might have assumed. You actually own all of it together and when one partner dies the surviving partner owns it solely and absolutely.

It is sole and absolute ownership that enables a whole property to be taken into consideration as an asset by the local authority and puts the property in danger of needing to be sold to fund care.

The Reality Today The care Act 2014 introduced in April 2015 allows local authorities to assess your assets to determine if you need to pay for your own care under the new charges and assessment of resources regulations.

Currently if you have assets above £23,250, you are on your own and require care, you will probably have to pay for it all - currently averaging around £1,000 per week.

Savings, cash and income would be used first and then your property would need to be taken into consideration. You would be expected to pay for all of your care until such time as your assets were depleted to below the £23,250 threshold.

You would then pay for a proportion of your care until your assets were below £14,250 - at which point all your future care would be paid for after any relevant income was taken into account.

The Solution For couples, simply by changing the way you own your property well in advance of any care considerations i.e. from joint tenants to tenants in common and by setting up two property Trusts either immediately or within a properly structured Will at the same time will in most cases, protect the integrity of your home should you ever require care in the future, so long as avoiding care fees was not a primary motivating reason behind the implementation fo the strategy - i.e. you should be looking to protect your half of your property should your spouse remarry after your death, or you should be looking to ensure that your children would not lose 50% of their inheritance should they be made bankrupt or divorce or for example you should be looking to prevent a generational inheritance tax burden in the future. These are all sound reasons for implementing this strategy which in themselves are not deliberate deprivation of assets, but the implemantation of which protects the integrity of the property.

For sole owners the process is simply to set up a Trust now and convey your property into it which will produce the same result again this must be well in advance of any care considerations and the motivation must not solely be for the purpose of preventing your home being used to fund your care.

With our Whole of Life and Post Death Complete Property and Family Protection Package both halves of the property are conveyed into Trust IMMEDIATELY. This means the whole property is protected straight away and not just after the first party dies. The benefits of this package are that it then protects the property even if both parties go into care before the death of either. It also means that if the survivor goes into care the property does not have to be rented but if it is 100% of the income goes directly into the Trusts for the benefit of the survivor or any of the other Trust Beneficiaries and does not have to be given to the Local Authority. The most important benefit of this package though is the property can be sold at any time and the resulting proceeds be fully protected for the whole family within the Trusts and no negotiation with the Local Authority is required.

Sole owners and couples who have immediately conveyed their properties into Trust well in advance of any care consideration and not solely for the purpose of preventing their home being used to fund their care (deliberate deprivation of assets) secures the integrity of the property (so long as entry into care is not within 6 months of setting up the strategy) as the property is not absolutely owned by an individual anymore and it is not legal to force a Trustee to do something that is not in the ultimate best interest of the Trust Beneficiaries.

Call us now for a friendly chat about which package would be of best benefit to you and your family.

SEVENOAKS:

The Reasoning When you own your home as tenants in common you actually own half each. With our Post death Property Protection Package when the first partner dies, they leave their half into their Trust. The

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surviving partner is the Trustee of that Trust and also the Primary Beneficiary which means that as they own half and are Trustee of the other half they have complete control over the property and what happens to it. The children and/or whoever else is also nominated as ultimate Trust Beneficiaries will have access to that half of the property when the surviving partner dies. The first half of the property then is 100% securely in Trust for the beneficiaries and will not be at risk. As a result of this simple strategy and because it is not possible to sell just the survivor's half of the property, the integrity of the property is protected. While the "market value" of half a property is negligible, The Care Act 2014 guidelines do allow for this half to have a charge placed on it under a deferred payment arrangement for care fees which is why this package includes a Lasting Power of Attorney grant for Property and Financial affairs which will enable a pre-appointed Attorney to act on behalf of the survivor should they be unable to themselves and negotiate with the Local Authority for the property to be rented out and a percentage of the income given to the Local Authority instead of a charge being placed. The second half of the property would then ultimately go into the Trust for access by the nominated beneficiaries when the surviving partner eventually dies.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS:

www.thywill.co.uk

01732 605411 01892 278171

~

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SWAROVSKI TUNBRIDGE WELLS 204 ROYAL VICTORIA PLACE , TUNBRIDGE WELLS, TN l 2SS.

Miranda Kerr

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SO

CELEBRITY

“Please know this: I am fully aware that I am a lucky, lucky man.”

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SO

PA PHOTO/UNIVERSAL

CELEBRITY

THE MAYNE MAN WHY BRITISH ACTOR EDDIE REDMAYNE IS THE MAN OF THE MOMENT As awards season presents itself firmly for 2016 and the nominations roll in, there’s one name that has everybody talking. Well – two if

he’s having something of another moment just a year after his first string of phenomenal successes, and has again been nominated for a number of

you include the ‘will he/won’t he’ saga over

awards (including another Best Actor Oscar.)

Leonardo DiCaprio and an Oscars win, but

Rarely does an actor recieve such recognition

more about that later. The man causing a

for their art in such quick succession.

buzz is Brit actor Eddie Redmayne for his critically acclaimed portrayal of transgender Lili Elbe in The Danish Girl.

The reason for this interest is twofold; on the one

“If you’re lucky enough in your lifetime to get two parts that are interesting and challenging to play, then it’s a privilege really.”

Born in London in 1982, Edward John David Redmayne

hand, the film, and Redmayne’s acting in it is being

was one of five children. With a back catalogue as

commended for raising awareness of gender identity,

impressive as his, one could assume that Redmayne

but the other, is that it is only 12 months since

was born to act, and, while this may be so, acting wasn’t

Redmayne accepted the Best Actor Oscar for his role

a part of his life until he attended Eton and tried his hand

in The Theory of Everything, where he portrayed

at performing. His father was a businessman and his

professor Stephen Hawking.

mother worked in relocation business – a far cry from

While some actors may have taken a well-earned

stage lights and Hollywood movie sets, so although

break after cleaning up at the awards (Eddie also won

he enjoyed a privileged upbringing, it wasn’t one of

a Golden Globe, a BAFTA and a Screen Actor’s Guild

childhood stardom or stage schooling.

award for his role as Hawking), he was back on set for

Eddie’s first introduction to theatre was when,

The Danish Girl two days after scooping the Academy Award, and has been pretty much non-stop since.

It seems his efforts have paid off, however, because

aged 12 he appeared in Sam Mendes’ West End production of Oliver! Where he played Workhouse Boy #40. Then, at Eton, head of drama at the time,

“Anxiety drives me…and fear of screwing up.”

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CELEBRITY

PA PHOTO/UNIVERSAL

SO

In fact, on accepting his Oscar last year, the

Simon Dormandy spotted his promise and

nominations, then the wins, and then, the

cast him in a production.

OBE in the 2015 Birthday Honours. And that’s

first words he uttered were: “Please know

all before anyone had seen The Danish Girl.

this: I am fully aware that I am a lucky, lucky

“His talent was obvious and innate. I first cast him as Adela Quested in A Passage to India.”

It was through Dormandy that Mark

“The stakes get higher each time you’ve been lucky enough to be successful. Or at

man.”

He may be a household name and a pro

Rylance was tipped off about Eddie when

least they feel higher. What’s complicated

in front of the cameras, but Redmayne is

searching for a teenage Viola to play

is I’m having a year like this year, which is

perpetually anxious and concerned about

opposite his Olivia in an all-male Twelfth

unquestionably the most extraordinary year,

failure. “Anxiety drives me…and fear of

Night. Performed at Middle Temple Hall in 2002, while Eddie was still a student at Cambridge studying for a degree in history of art, it was this astonishing production that launched Redmayne’s career.

Over the next decade, he his successes began to mount up; from the Outstanding Newcomer at the 50th Evening Standard Theatre Awards in 2004, for his performance in Edward Albee’s The Goat, or Who Is Sylvia? to being cast as Colin Clark in 2011’s My Week with Marilyn, alongside Michelle Williams and Judi Dench, Redmayne was fast becoming a household name.

But, it was his role in The Theory of Everything that propelled him to new levels of stardom. Portraying the professor was always going to be tricky and needed to be delicately done, but thankfully, Stephen Hawking himself was impressed with the outcome – he was reported to have said that there were moments where he believed it was himself on screen, so convincing was Redmayne in his depiction.

And so began the whirlwind, which seems to have no sign of ending – first came the

and I’m already accepting it’s the best it’ll

screwing up.” This wasn’t a deep-rooted

ever get. But you want to keep doing good

anxiety from childhood however; the

40

Redmayne definitely isn’t taking his successes for granted however, and realises how lucky he is to be where he is today

awkwardness and guardedness has arrived since his rise to success.

“No confidence comes with it. You feel you’ve had this lucky break…but you also know that people are like ‘who’s he?’”

It’s doubtful that people question Eddie’s credentials – just last month Twitter became a hive of activity when he was accosted in a Staffordshire Co-Op store while buying a pint of milk, and aspiring thespians write to him in adoration. Although, he upholds his

work, to see how long you can extend it.”

‘nicest actor’ reputation by sometimes

This time around, Eddie may not be as

paying budding actors’ rent when they

lucky with his awards season, owing mostly

write to him for help.

to the fact that he’s pitted against Leonardo

“The greatest privilege that I had was

Dicaprio for the Best Actor Oscar – and with

that my parents lived in London. So when

this the sixth time Leo has been up for the

I was out of university and out of work for

accolade, perhaps Eddie will be a gracious

a year, working in a pub, I didn’t pay rent.

runner up. Or, perhaps he’ll do the double

And I get letters from people trying to go to

and have another golden statue to add to the

drama school and needing to pay their rent,

mantelpiece – only time will tell.

so that’s something I occasionally do. It’s

Redmayne definitely isn’t taking his successes for granted however, and realises how lucky he is to be where he is today.

impossibly expensive to live in London.”

Redmayne is renowned for being down to earth, so perhaps that’s why, when

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CELEBRITY

SO

SCREEN TEST Film reviewer Damon Smith gives his verdict on The Danish Girl

many others indulge in high-profile celebrity relationships, he’s preferred to keep his low-key.

Wife Hannah Bagshawe, who he married in a winter countryside ceremony at the end of 2014, is not a fellow actor or star, but instead has a background in antiques and financial PR. The couple announced in December that they are due to be come first time parents this June, and in interviews Eddie is always quick to praise his partner for her support – the couple even cut short their honeymoon so that Eddie could keep Hollywood commitments.

Eddie is constantly praised for his fashion gravitas, has modelled for Burberry and twice been named GQ magazine’s ‘best dressed man in the world’, but it would seem his style is, in part, down to Hannah’s influence. Redmayne who is colourblind has previously admitted he relies on his wife to help him get dressed and to ensure he’s looking stylish.

“When I go out to premieres and events, I have to check with her that the trousers match the top.

I recently wore a blue suit – and I had to ask her if it was really blue rather than purple. She assured me it was blue. I could not tell the difference.”

Whether we’ll see Redmayne accepting another Oscar this month or not, there’s no denying that he’s one of the country’s most exciting actors. The 34-year-old may look younger than his years, but he’s certainly achieved the success of peers more than twice

It has been a momentous 12 months for the transgender community, which has advanced the fight for acceptance, equality and understanding into popular culture and the mainstream media.

The Danish Girl is a fictionalised account of Lili Elbe, a pioneer of the movement, who was one of the first people to undergo gender reassignment surgery in the 1920s.

Director Tom Hooper, who collected an Academy Award for The King’s Speech, adopts a restrained and painfully polite approach to the subject matter, artfully navigating a maelstrom of conflicting emotions.

Thankfully, his British reserve doesn’t get in the way of us connecting to the characters, aided by tourde-force performances from Eddie Redmayne as Lili and the luminous Alicia Vikander as his conflicted wife.

Their commitment to demanding roles, including a deeply moving scene of fullfrontal nudity for Redmayne, elevates Lucinda Coxon’s script and guarantees a deluge of saltwater tears from audiences, who believe that love transcends all boundaries.

Einar Wegener (Redmayne) is a respected artist in 1920s Copenhagen, who falls in love at first sight with his bohemian wife Gerda (Vikander). She is also a painter and asks Einar to stand in for an absent female model so she can complete a portrait of their flamboyant ballerina friend, Ulla (Amber Heard).

The touch of soft fabric on

Einar’s skin awakens long-dormant feelings.

Adopting the guise of flame-haired ingenue Lili Elbe, Einar confronts the deeprooted belief that he has been born into the wrong body.

“It doesn’t matter what I wear.

When I dream, they’re Lili’s dreams,” Einar tearfully confides to his shell-shocked spouse.

Supported by Gerda and childhood friend Hans Axgil (Matthias Schoenaerts), Lili approaches controversial surgeon Warnekros (Sebastian Koch) to correct nature’s mistake.

However, the medical procedure is both experimental and highly dangerous, and Gerda might not only lose her husband on the operating table, but also Lili.

The Danish Girl treads an exceedingly safe path, but it’s hard to resist the aching emotion that courses beneath each exquisite, painterly frame.

Redmayne and Vikander are mesmerising, conveying their protagonists’ inner torment with each trembling touch or tearstained glance, and both deserve Oscar recognition.

Resplendent cinematography and costumes capture the tightly-buttoned restraint of an era when a man who openly questioned his gender was labelled a schizophrenic or pervert by the medical establishment. Thankfully, times have changed – too slowly, perhaps – but wellcrafted stories of triumph against adversity like this are timeless.

his age. He may be anxious about his future, but from where we (and everyone else) are standing, it’s looking very bright indeed…

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THE LOOK

FASHION FORWARD NEXT MONTH WE’LL BE FEATURING OUR FIRST EXCLUSIVE FASHION SHOOT. HERE’S A SNEAK PEEK OF WHAT TO EXPECT… “This spring season offers some of the boldest, bravest and most beautiful fashion we’ve seen in a while and it’s exciting to be able to translate these trends into wearable outfits from our local high street boutiques.

The idea behind this photo shoot is to step into spring with a fresh new approach to styling, whether you’re searching for an ultra-feminine look or exquisite everyday must-haves, there is something for everyone.”

Catherine de Crèvecoeur STYLIST

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THE LOOK

SO

INVESTMENT PIECE BECAUSE REALLY, IT’S MORE A CASE OF NEED THAN WANT…

Step into spring with this pretty pastel reversible wool coat, £399 FROM JAEGER

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-

SO

SARAH GILLMORE PERSONAL

S T Y L

S T

Are you at a relationship-crossroad, or going through a big life change and want to shine with style, elegance and allure?

Do you need advice on how to represent yourself authentically in your business brand?

Or need advice on how to move out of a style-rut which is not true to the person you are?

For a warm, intuitive, positive Personal Styling experience which is really tailored to the person you are Contact Sarah via www.sarahgillmorestylist.com or sarah@sarahgi 11 morestyl ist.com

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THE LOOK

SO

FASHION INSIDER

PERSONAL STYLIST CATHERINE DE CRÈVECOEUR REVEALS HOW TO BRING THE LATEST TRENDS TO YOUR FEBRUARY WARDROBE

O

ne item that consistently remains abandoned in part of most of my clients’ wardrobes is the work shirt. If you own

shirts that are still in good condition and fit you but you have no desire or motivation to wear them, there is a perfect way to bring new life back into them. You can turn them into exciting and on-trend garments with these simple tricks. Perfect for experimenting with on those cosy nights in.

Bold brooches:: Gucci, Prada and House of Holland were just some of the many designers who introduced beautifully embellished floral brooches into their collections last season. Either fasten one onto the top button of your shirt or add several brooches below the shoulder area to create maximum impact.

The chic effect:: you can make your neck the focus by simply leaving the top two buttons undone and knot a silk or cotton scarf around your neck. Complete the look with some

STEAL HER STYLE

Cate Blanchett looks darkly elegant in an outfit by Alexander McQueen. Capture Cate’s look, perfect for an evening out, by teaming a sheer top dress like this one from French Connection (£65 www.frenchconnection. com)) with a fitted, textured com jacket like this one by Fenn Wright Mason (£59 www.fennwrightmanson.com).

straight-leg trousers and a pair of loafers.

Say it with a bow: A big trend last season and set to continue into Spring/Summer is the collar bow. This is something you can easily make yourself, by using a roll of simple black ribbon tied into a bow. You can even punctuate the knot with a brooch or shirt pins.

If you’ve been looking to find inspiration for your next sewing project, why not add some

“FASHION IS THE ARMOUR TO SURVIVE THE REALITY OF EVERYDAY LIFE.” BILL CUNNINGHAM

style

TIP Buy what you like and what suits you first.

Indulge yourself with trends second.

personalisation to your shirts by wearing your initials on the pockets. You can invest in some iron-on stickers, metal pins or dust off your sewing machine and sew your own block lettering on. Now it’s over to you to get creative and hopefully make more use out of your shirts.

Catherine de Crèvecoeur PERSONAL STYLIST www.stylepourmoi.com

Splurge vs Steal Make a romantic addition to your lingerie drawer with this delicately crafted lace set by Silent Assembly (£144 www.silentassembly.co.uk) or spend a little less with a lace trimmed balconette bra and thong from Boux Avenue (£42 www.bouxavenue.com).

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SO

THE LOOK

“IT’S OK TO GIVE YOUR HAIR A DAY OFF FROM TIME TO TIME…” For The Gallery Hair and Beauty in Tunbridge Wells, the start of a New Year is an exciting time for upcoming trends. Creative director and salon owner Lorenzo Colangelo tells us what customers can expect from the salon in 2016, and which looks will be turning heads over the coming months protecting the hair if you apply additional heat with styling irons, tongs or a wand.

One favourite was using our GHD curling wand on the mid-lengths of the hair for wavy texture, without having to wrap the ends of the hair and potentially catching your fingers on the heat, which I’m sure we’ve all done at some point.

MARIO FAILLA CREATIVE DIRECTOR THE GALLERY HAIRDRESSING

ARE THERE ANY TRENDS YOU’RE ANTICIPATING FOR 2016?

The modern set will be key for 2016 – big and bouncy, but ruffled and teased with your fingers after; great for a night out on a belated work party if you didn’t get the opportunity over Christmas. Low, deep side partings are a great way to shift your hair to frame your face and give your style a new look. Head bands will be seen more in 2016, lifting hair off the face and increasing volume at the crown; simple, effective and fuss-free.

Going natural will also play a big part in 2016 – even if your hair is flat and straight, go with it. It’s OK to give your hair a day off from time to time, and this trend will certainly suit people with very little time on their hands.

HOW DID 2015 SHAPE UP FOR YOUR SALON? It was another incredible year. We’ve really galvanised our team and continued to provide what we feel is the very best in hair and beauty; not just in services, but overall experience. As a result, our continued passion and drive saw us as finalists for the BHA (British Hairdressing Awards) for Customer Care and Salon of the Year. After winning Salon of the Year 2014, we were completely overwhelmed to win it for a second consecutive year! It’s been a real boost to the salon, the team and our fabulous, loyal customers.

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE MOST POPULAR STYLES AND PRODUCTS? More recently, Christmas and New Year was party time for our clients, so polished blow-dries, curls and simple up-dos were

46

really popular. Our team went the extra mile creating these looks for clients who, to begin with, hadn’t given their hair much thought for the night ahead. L’Oreal Techni Art Pli was a huge product for volume and hold, as was our Shu Uemura Sheer Lacquer hair spray.

ANY STYLE TIPS YOU WOULD RECOMMEND TO YOUR CLIENTS? To work the right style means getting the foundation of shampoo and conditioner right. Using the right product to cleanse the hair and using the correct brand for your hair type is essential. Once the hair is clean and conditioned, working with the correct styling product means what time you do spend styling your hair will be more effective. Blow-dry sprays like Shu Uemera Straightforward is a great product to minimise your blow-drying time, while

WHO ARE SOME OF THE BIGGEST CELEBRITIES THAT WILL INFLUENCE THIS YEAR’S HAIR TRENDS? Look out for Alexia Chung; her hair always looks current and modern, and you’ll see the use of hair accessories more with celebrities. Hailey Baldwin’s simple centre parting and long bangs will also make a feature this year. Jessica Biel shows us how mid-waving your hair for a glunge (glamour grunge) look is a key trend. Finally, ombré is still current, despite what you may have read or heard – Olivia Wilde shows just how great this trend is for longer hair.

The Gallery 63-67 London Road, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 0PA 01892 514 900 www.thegalleryhairandbeauty.co.uk

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THE LOOK

SO

DATE NIGHT

MEET YOUR MATCH THIS VALENTINE’S WITH THESE PRETTY PICKS

MARKS AND SPENCER

Best of British blouse, £99 www.marksandspencer.com

EAST

Dara print silk palazzo trouser, £149 www.east.co.uk Loucinda contrast dress, £145 www.phase-eight.co.uk

PHASE EIGHT

WTR

Elske print vest, £290 and Bloem printed trouser, £350 www.wtrlondon.com

MONSOON

Delilah stripe dress, £109 www.monsoon.co.uk

JAEGER

Dress, £175 www.jaeger.co.uk

HOBBS

Lillian slingback, £139 www.hobbs.co.uk

LITTLE MISTRESS

Coral lace scallop hem skirt, £48, and scallop hem top, £35 www.littlemistress.co.uk

DUNE

Azzra courts, £85 www.dunelondon.com

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25/01/2016 11:05

RECEIVE A

FREE 15 MINUTE FITNESS AND LIFESTYLE CONSULTATION From our clinic in Tunbridge Wells we offer specialist treatment for a range of

musculoskeletal conditions including back pain, arthritic and joint problems and sports injuries.

Right now we are offering free consultations to set you on the right path for your treatment.

To arrange your free consultation with Herder Healthcare Tunbridge Wells CALL:

01892 529059 OR VISIT:

www.horderhea Ith ea re.co.u k

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THE LOOK

SO

THE FRONT ROW

WE BRING YOU THE LATEST HEADLINES FROM THE FASHION WORLD

 STEPPING DOWN  After revealing a bigger than expected fall in clothing sales for the 2015 Christmas period, Marks and Spencer has announced its chief executive Marc Bolland is to step down in April. Bolland, who has run the company for the past six years, will hand over the reins to Steve Rowe, M&S’s clothing boss who headed the chain’s food business until recently. Although sales on merchandise were down 5.8% during the festive season, Bolland insisted he had been planning his departure for a while, and had informed the board last summer that he intended to leave in 2016.

✶ TOP MODEL She began her modelling career with Topshop, and now the fashion retailer has announced that supermodel Karlie Kloss is to front their global Spring/Summer 2016 campaign, which has started hitting stores across the world. The range includes military style jackets, nautical stripes and glamorous dresses and heels.

“It is thrilling to have Karlie back, eight years after her first modelling job and first Topshop campaign alongside Jourdan Dunn,” says Kate Phelan, Creative Director of Topshop. “She is the ultimate TOPSHOP girl and modern super – a world-renowned fashion figure, businesswoman, entrepreneur and philanthropist who will resonate with our global customers through her many talents, ambitions and passions.”

● Workout

Wardrobe

Local celebrity and fitness enthusiast Davina McCall is set to be spotted in more places than the local High Street, as she’s become the face of Tesco’s F&F’s fitness range Activewear.

The fitness clothing collection, which launched back in 2014 is now expanding, with light impact yoga, high intensity cardio and breathe easy and dry fit pieces added to the range.

“Davina is the ideal ambassador for the range with her legacy of success in the fitness arena,” comments Richard Price, CEO of F&F. “She is someone our customers can really relate to. I am very excited about this partnership”.

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25/01/2016 11:18

SO

First floor Hoopers

HAVE YOU TRIED US YET?

Come and visit our calm, modern treatment rooms & experience everything from the essentials, such as waxing & threading, right through to luxury ESPA anti ageing facials, salt and oil body scrubs & hand and foot care.

50

CELEBRATE LOVE WITH US DURING FEBRUARY

book a full body aromatherapy massage and we will give your partner

A COMPLIMENTARY BACK, NECK AND SHOULDER MASSAGE at the same time...

GREAT HAIRDRESSING & BEAUTY First floor, Hoopers, Tunbridge Wells @gr8hairdressing GREAT hairdressing www.greathairdressing.com 01892 542015

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26/01/2016 12:43

Reassurance in a heartbeat

The Wells Suite is able to offer a range of pregnancy ultrasound scans using state of the art ultrasound equipment.

You might want to make sure that there is definitely a heartbeat at 6 weeks, check your baby's growth at 16 weeks, or want the reassurance of a detailed anomaly scan at 20 weeks. Whatever your reason we can offer expert advice and reassurance in a calm and relaxed environment.

What scans are available?

• Early Pregnancy Scan/Viability Scan (6-8 weeks) • Growth and Well-being Scan (16 weeks to term) • Anomaly Scan (20-22 weeks)

Why choose The Wells Suite for your scan?

• No referral letter required • Accredited midwife sonographers • Consultant advice available • Flexible appointment times, including evening and weekend appointments

To book a scan appointment, or for further information, please telephone 01892 635888.

The Wells Suite

The Wells Suite Your health in safe hands

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01892 635888

www.thewellssuite.co.uk

25/01/2016 11:53

-

SO

'

% OFF

ALL COLOUR Get couture colour to suit you without the designer price tag Starts I 3th February -

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HEADMASTERS II速 Beautiful, Fashionable, Confidence-Boosting Hair www.headmasters.com

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THE LOOK

SO

BEAUTY BULLETIN WE BRING YOU THE LATEST HEADLINES FROM THE BEAUTY WORLD

■ PATCH TESTING Skincare brand La Roche-Posay has debuted My UV Patch, the first-ever stretchable skin sensor designed to monitor UV exposure, at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

The patch is a transparent adhesive that stretches and adheres directly to any area of skin that consumers want to monitor.

It contains photosensitive dyes that work with all skin tones, changing colour when exposed to UV rays to indicate varying levels of sun exposure. Consumers will be able to take a photo of the patch and upload it to the La Roche-Posay My UV Patch mobile app.

The patch is expected to be made available to UK consumers later this year.

● COCOA CURE We’ve all heard about the healing powers of honey and lemon when it comes to calming a cough, but experts are claiming that eating chocolate could also be a cure. After a new cough medicine was recently trialled containing chocolate, results showed that it reduced both cough frequency and sleep disruption within two days. Researchers believe the benefits are primarily down to the demulcent properties of cocoa – as it’s sticker than many medicines, it forms a coating which protects nerve endings in the throat which trigger the urge to cough.

➧ Drinking Directions If you’re prone to enjoying a few glasses of wine at the weekends, then new drinking guidelines issued by the UK’s chief medical officers could put paid to those Friday night Prosecco sessions. The new advice says men and women who drink regularly should consume no more than 14 units a week – equivalent to six pints of beer or seven glasses of wine. And, they also state that if people drink, it should be moderately over three or more days, and that they shouldn’t ‘save up’ their units.

Previous government guidance set out daily drinking limits of three to four units for men and two to three for women. The new guidance moves to weekly limits to get away from the idea that drinking every day is fine.

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25/01/2016 11:03

"Straightening my teeth with lnvisalign changed more than just my smile" Book a complimentary consultation before 29th February and discover how lnvisalign could work for you.

Call

01892 533944

orvisit

~

~

TUNBRJDGE WELLS DENTAL CENTR.E

mismile.co.uk/twdc

漏 MiSmile ~:f Simply

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invisalign路

22/01/2016 11:02

Change more than your smile with lnvisalign - the clear alternative to braces.

A beautiful new smile increases self-esteem, improves confidence and results in a brighter, happier you, and with lnvisalign, discovering the new you is easier than you think. lnvisalign is a series of clear removable aligners that straighten your teeth, and unlike fixed braces, there are no wires or brackets. This means there is no metal and they are nearly invisible when you wear them.

What's more, lnvisalign can treat a huge range of teeth straightening requirements, from very minor tooth movements to more complex cases including overcrowding, or closing gaps or widely spaced teeth.

Tunbridge Wells Dental Centre is part of the MiSmile Network one of the largest lnvisalign Providers in the UK and is passionate about helping you create your perfect smile.

Simply book your free consultation today and take the first step to regaining your confidence. And if you go ahead with treatment until the end of February and you can save up to ÂŁ500.

Tunbridge Wells Dental Centre Address: 46 St Johns Road, Tunbridge Wells TN4 9NT Telephone: 01892 533944

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Website: mismile.co.uk/twdc

22/01/2016 11:03

fresh thinking. real results.

Facial volume loss making you look older?

Wrinkles are just one of the components in the ageing process.

Volume loss in the cheeks is also a major reason why we lose that youthful profile over the years.

When volume is added to the cheeks it lifts the entire face and diminishes nasolabial lines and jowls. The shape of the face can be reverted to a youthful 'upside down triangle'. To compliment the enhanced cheeks, it would be beneficial to add volume to the teartroughs, to ensure a smooth transition from this area into the cheeks. Furthermore, the mid cheek can support the lower eyelid, and in many cases, adding volume to the cheeks can improve the appearance of under eye bags.

E //-IP!ftJi/Le ~ lo u:>.;,e we,igU ~ bwt- 01/L.e vU-t/orfw~ 5-ide, elfed of we,igU w-:0 0 Jww i:t C,01,v/r~ l o ~ VOUMM-e w-;0.

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'It looks natural. It feels natural."

My Fountain of Youth!

DROOPY EYEBROWS

HOLLOW TEMPLES

HOLLOWNESS UNDER EYES

LOSS OF VOLUME IN CHEEKS UNDEFINED NOSE OR TIP LAUGH LINES __, SAGGING CORNERS

LIPSTICK LINES

THIN LIPS

MARIONETTE LINE

CHIN WRINKLES

EAR LOBE CORRECTION

"I went from having sunken eyes, flat cheeks, heavy jaws, laughter and marionette lines to looking and feeling like ten years were given back to me. There's nothing like looking in the mirror and liking what you see!

I like how Juvederm gives me a natural-look-ing result without a frozen appearance! Facial fillers make me feel like I'm the best version of myself, which is a great reason to do it. It was well worth it, I look fantastic and I feel amazing!

This is my advice to anyone considering treatment. When it comes to reasons for choosing fillers, it really is all about you. So if it feels right, go for it!"

__________________________ The whole face approach

www.rtwskin.co.uk

01892 22 22 22 ~ @rtwskin

rtwskin

support@rtwskin.co.uk

Roya l Tunbridge We ll s Skin & Lase r Cli nic, Co bd en Ho us e Med ical Ce nt re, 25 Lo ndon Road , Tunb ridge We ll s, Ke nt TNl lDA

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22/01/2016 14:07

THE LOOK

SO

BEAUTY

bulletin Here are some of our favourite new hair and beauty discoveries this month

BAREMINERALS

BARESKIN COMPLETE COVERAGE SERUM CONCEALER, £22 Following in the footsteps of Bareminerals’ complete coverage serum foundation, this new concealer promises to instantly cover the appearance of dark circles, discoloration and other imperfections for a beautifully even-toned complexion. Not only does it glide on smoothly, it gives a great, dewy appearance while concealing a multitude of sins. This is our new beauty bag must-have. Available February 4. www.bareminerals.co.uk

BOBBI BROWN

LIMITED EDITION EXTRA LIP TINT, £25 Bobbi Brown’s latest release is perfect for on the go glamour. As well as moisturising and softening lips, this sheer tint also adapts to your skin tone, so the subtle pink will always be your perfect shade. This is one product we’re not leaving the house without this spring. www.bobbibrown.com

COLORSPORT

30 DAY BROW TINT, £8.25 The difference a little eyebrow colour can make is amazing, and now you can shade your brows from the comfort of your own home, with Colorsport’s 30 Day Brow Tint.

Apply in just two minutes for long-lasting results, while eyebrows appear more defined. The wand is easy to use and the quick application makes this a great at-home pampering product. www.beautyandthebunch.com

SISLEY

SISLEŸA L’INTÉGRAL ANTI-AGE, £285 Seventeen years after the launch of SISLEŸA Global Anti-Âge, Sisley has introduced a new and improved version of their amazing anti-ageing cream. The new double-strength formula acts on the visible signs of behavioural ageing as well as those linked to genetic and extrinsic ageing. Apply morning and night and watch as your skin is stimulated and rejuvenated. www.sisley-paris.com

CLARINS

MULTI-ACTIVE DAY CREAM, £42 If the stresses of everyday life are taking their toll on your skin, then combat signs quickly with Clarins’ new skin saviour. This product contains plant extract to blitz wrinkles, while radiance pigments leave you with a youthful glow. Stress causes the skin to overproduce CRH, but this cream helps to protect dermal cells so even if you’re feeling tense inside, your face will be telling a different story. www.clarins.com

FILLERINA

LIP VOLUME, 5ML £40 No needles required for a plumped-up pout this Valentine’s – all you need to do is invest in Fillerina’s Lip Volume treatment. Easily applied with a rollerball, hyaluronic acid immediately penetrates into the deep layers of skin’s tissues covering the lips in order to promote lip volume. Keep on your desk and roll on for an effortless beauty boost. www.marksandspencer.com

CHARLOTTE TILBURY

KISS CHASE & UNDER THE SHEETS LIPSTICKS, £23 Pucker up for Valentine’s Day with one of Charlotte Tilbury’s latest lipstick launches. Named following a competition on social media, Kiss Chase, the latest addition to her K.I.S.S.I.N.G range is a tawny berry hue, while Under the Sheets is part of her Matte Revolution collection and is a vintage rose petal shade. Both contain blends of oils and vitamins to nourish and condition the lips. www.charlottetilbury.com

JO MALONE

LIMITED EDITION HERB GARDEN COLLECTION, 30ML £44 Perfect to welcome the new season and complement your spring wardrobe, Jo Malone’s newest range of fragrances are fresh, floral and reminiscent of the great outdoors. From the delectable Sorrel and Lemon Thyme with its zesty notes to the rich and earthy Lavender and Coriander, your only problem will be deciding which of the five new fragrances to buy first.

Available March 1 www.jomalone.co.uk

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25/01/2016 11:01

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SINCE 1893.

25/01/2016 11:55

Considering weight loss surgery?

Free information evenings and complimentary one-to-one advice sessions available for men and women .

Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital will be holding a free Weight loss surgery information evening with one of our top Bariatric Surgeons, Mr Ahmed Hamouda. The evening will consist of drinks and canapes on arrival, an introduction from the Surgeon, followed by a complimentary

l O minute consultation where you will have the

opportunity to talk to Mr Hamouda in private about all your weight loss surgery questions. He will explain to you the procedures most suitable for you as well as the risks and benefits of surgery.

Come and find out more about the procedure you are considering.

WHEN: Thursdayl 7th March

TIME: 19:00 - 21 :00

WHERE: Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital Kingswood Road Tunbridge Wells TN2 4UL

These events are popular so please book your place.

Call : 01892 882 870 Or vi sit nuffieldhealth .com/ hospital s/tunbridge-well s

; ; Nuffield Health FOR THE LOVE OF LIFE

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Hospitals + Health Checks + Physio + Gyms

22/01/2016 11:03

Permanent solution to thin lips AN ALTERNATIVE TO LIP FILLERS by

Permanent Lip Enhancement Clinic

Stevie

My top lip has always been very thin and lifeless. For months I had been debating lip fillers, but being a massive baby in the pain department I kept putting it off The ongoing cost to keep my top lip looking just right was also a concern for me. I was thrilled with the results the filler gave, but it wasn't long before I needed a 'top-up'. So I went looking for a permanent solution!

Lip specialist and consultant plastic surgeon, Amir Nakhdjevani, at clinic Bella Vou in Tunbridge Wells, Kent recommended PermaLip™ as a permanent, one-off solution procedure to give me the lips I wanted. The procedure took just 20 minutes to perform using a local anaesthetic, and I now have the perfect lips ... permanently!

My Review

PermalipTM - what's the difference?

-'' ' ''"'"

/

'"'"' .

'"'"

Lip Fillers

Permalip™ Implants

Results are only temporary

Safe, permanent solution

Treatment must be repeated every few months

Is permanent yet can be easily removed

Can cause lumpy/lopsided effects

Contoured to match your lip shape

Available in 3 sizes to suit

Procedure takes just 20 mins Ongoing, touch-up costs of BOO _ £3SO per visit

. .

Simple, one-off cost of 1ust £1,500 12 months interest-free credit available!

Enjoy fuller, more youthful lips for years to come with Permalip™ and the Bella Vou team!

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22/01/2016 11:04

THE LOOK

SO

EXPERT OPINION

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE ON YOUR HEALTH, BEAUTY AND WELLBEING

“My mummy makeover is the best thing I’ve ever done – apart from having my kids” 39-year-old mother-of-two, Jasmine

ABOUT MARC PACIFICO Described as a rising star in plastic surgery, Marc Pacifico MD FRCS(Plast) came top in the UK’s consultant level plastic surgery examinations and has published over 50 international peer-reviewed papers. He is a regularly invited speaker at conferences and has appeared on Channel 4’s Bodyshockers.

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

WHY NOW IS THE TIME TO PLAN FOR SUMMER After the social whirl of Christmas and the New Year, many of us hide away to recharge. This is just one of the reasons why now is the perfect time to take action to face the summer with confidence, says Mr Marc Pacifico, consultant plastic surgeon at the Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital

T

he start of a new year is when we

lull means it’s easier to tuck yourself away so

look ahead and think about what we

the world only sees you when you are ready

want to achieve over the coming 12

to face it, refreshed and rejuvenated.

months, professionally, personally and

time; fresh scars need to be kept out of

about your body or your looks, you’ll be

sunlight, and many of the skin rejuvenation

pleased to know that the time of New Year’s

products that are recommended to assist

resolutions is also the ideal time to take

healing should not be used in strong

action, so you can face the months ahead

sunlight. Finally, frosty winter days also

with renewed confidence.

mean it’s easier to hide scars with woollies,

days are the perfect time to consider

Knightspark Leisure Park, Knights Way, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3UW ➧ Complimentary 10-minute one-to-one with Mr Pacifico ➧ Canapés and bubbly

Winter is also nature’s natural healing

emotionally. If you feel less than confident

There are three reasons why the short, dark

Thursday February 25, 7pm to 9pm Tunbridge Wells Fitness & Wellbeing Gym – Nuffield Health

To book your space please call 01892 552 932 www.nuffieldhealth.com/ tunbridgewellshospital Email: tun.enq@nuffieldhealth.com

scarves and hats.

So, if you started the New Year wishing

procedures that could help you regain the

you looked like you a few years ago, now is

‘you’ of a few years ago. Firstly, it’s hibernation

the perfect time for an initial, no-obligation

season; the natural post-party season social

consultation to consider your options.

TO ARRANGE A NO-OBLIGATION CONSULTATION WITH MR PACIFICO, call 01892 883 628

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25/01/2016 12:10

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25/01/2016 09:51

EXCLUSIVE WEDDING & ENGAGEMENT RINGS

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MARK ADAM Untitled-1 2

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25/01/2016 12:13

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PETER JENNER Jewellery maker

designer

Over 45 years creating individual, beautifully designed and expertly made engagement, wedding and eternity rings. Certificated diamonds.

- come direct to the craftsman Specialist in Fine Hand Made jewellery 43 The Pantiles Tunbridge Wells 01892 521796 www.peterjenner.com 68

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WEDDED BLISS Getting married, and everything that comes with it should be one of the most exciting times of your life, but with so much to organise and so many decisions to be made, we understand that planning for your big day can be a little daunting. That’s why, in this spring edition of So Weddings we’ve compiled a great guide to help you every step of the way, from the proposal right through to saying “I do.” From a stunning array of gorgeous gowns to wow in, to DIY tips from the experts, the following pages have all you need to ensure you’re prepared for your perfect day. Plus, we’ve personally tested the best bridal beauty products on the market so you know which you’ll need in your makeup bag on the big day, and we’ve included a guide for brides so that no-matter where you are in the planning process, you’ll know exactly the right questions to ask to ensure your wedding really is the best day of your life…

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THE PERFECT LOCATION Before you plan anything else for your wedding, you need to find the right venue.

From four-star hotels to Victorian mansions, there’s no shortage of nearby settings that will take your breath away on that big day. Read on to find out more about some of the most beautiful spaces available where you live

SALOMONS ESTATE There can be few better places to celebrate your big day than the magnificent Salomons Estate, one of Kent’s most popular wedding venues. Situated just two miles outside the Georgian spa town of Royal Tunbridge Wells, Salomons Estate is a stunning Victorian mansion originally designed by Decimus Burton, set in 36 rolling acres of gardens, parkland and woods, yet within an hour’s travel of Central London.

There are many settings to choose from in acres of beautiful grounds, but a particular favourite is on the bridge over the lily pond. Come summer or winter, our views are outstanding, and with full access to the grounds, you will have the perfect photo opportunities on your doorstep.

Salomons Estate offers a choice of four fabulous function rooms for your big day, each with elegantly hand-painted ceilings and lovingly restored period features. Our licence covers each of these rooms, meaning we can accommodate wedding parties of between 20 and 200 guests.

Broomhill Road, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 0TG 01892 515 152 www.salomons-estate.com reservations@salomons-estate.com

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ONE WARWICK PARK Situated in the historic village area of the town, One Warwick Park hotel promises to be Royal Tunbridge Wells’ most luxurious venue for your special day.

One Warwick Park is licensed to host wedding ceremonies and receptions, and with 142sq m of space, can accommodate wedding parties of up to 120 seated, and 175 for your evening reception. The function room offers you a stunning Grade II-listed venue, boasting a double height vaulted ceiling,

creating a spectacular blank canvas for your wedding.

Having undergone an extensive redevelopment, this contemporary hotel will continue to wow you and your guests, as it features an exceptional duplex suite for the bridal party, a dedicated private bar area and unique glass atrium and feature gallery for your wedding photos.

Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TA

01892 552590 www.onewarwickpark.co.uk

info@onewarwickpark.co.uk

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EASTWELL MANOR

THE SPA HOTEL

The magnificent, secluded Eastwell Manor provides the perfect backdrop for the ultimate bespoke wedding. Kent’s leading country house hotel boasts four AA red stars and two rosettes.

The discerning couple can choose to celebrate their special day in its entirety in this wonderful setting, holding the ceremony and wedding breakfast in the striking, oak-panelled rooms overlooking the gardens, or in the secret walled garden with its beautiful gazebo. Evening celebrations can be held in the Pavilion, with a dedicated bar area and ample room for dancing.

The head chef has devised some wonderful menus using the finest quality, locally sourced produce, but is delighted to create special menus on request. Eastwell Manor’s wine list is extensive, including a good choice of Champagnes.

Naturally, rooms are available at the hotel; residents have full use of the extensive spa facilities and gymnasium. The ‘Dreams’ beauty salon and the golf course are also available for those wishing for a little extra relaxation.

Eastwell Park, Boughton Lees, Ashford, Kent TN25 4HR 01233 213 000

www.eastwellmanor.co.uk

enquiries@eastwellmanor.co.uk

LONDON GOLF CLUB London Golf Club is one of the few Kent wedding venues located on the beautiful North Downs, providing a picturesque and private venue for your special day.

Set in the heart of 700 acres, our clubhouse is approached from the gatehouse by the impressive one-mile driveway – a real ‘wow’ factor right from the start.

With stunning views over the lakes, manicured fairways and a backdrop overlooking our two championship golf courses, your photographer will be spoiled for choice.

In a world where the finest details matter, London Golf Club continues to raise the bar with an award-winning clubhouse and first-class, exceptional service, including your own dedicated wedding co-ordinator to assist you with both planning and overseeing your special day from start to finish.

The venue is easily accessible, offering ample parking, a designated helipad available for use and several excellent hotels offering nearby accommodation.

The Spa is nestled within 14 acres of pretty gardens and provides the perfect backdrop for your wedding. Our wedding gazebo, with views over the lakes, is licensed for outdoor wedding ceremonies.

Here at The Spa, we offer flexibility and exclusivity, ensuring our wedding packages are tailored to your exact requirements. As well as our grand Royal Suite and Chandelier Room, we also have a selection of beautifully refurbished private rooms catering for smaller, more intimate celebrations.

To receive our wedding brochure, contact our events team on 01892 520 331, or email events@spahotel.co.uk.

Our Spa Hen Break is perfect for those wanting to combine their hen celebrations with some pre-wedding pampering.

This break includes sandwiches on arrival, two spa treatments, a glass of bubbly with dinner and overnight accommodation with breakfast the following morning, from £189 per person, based on two people sharing.

Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8XJ 01892 520 331

Email jemma@londongolf.co.uk

www.spahotel.co.uk

or call 01474 875 720.

events@spahotel.co.uk

Stansted Lane, Ash, Nr Brands Hatch, Kent TN15 7EH 01474 879 899 www.londongolf.co.uk

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Royal Wells Hotel Tunbridge Wells TN4 8BE

Sunday 7th February

efj~ Open 10.30am - 3.00pm w:JJ?~;~i~~s Pre-register at

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#kentwedshow www.wedding-experience.co.uk 01795 844449

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cfiighfields 9ark -

AN EXCEPTIONAL VENUE -

Enjoying the stunning surroundings of the English countryside our estate offers couples the perfect natural setting for their wedding.

Our Exclusive Experience includes use of our formal gardens, sweeping driveway, lakeside reception area and marquee space in the upper paddock. Your guests will enjoy stunning views of our Georgian house and lake as well as the beautiful rolling countryside.

To ensure every wedding stays unique our estate is only available for a handful of dates each year and does not hold a wedding licence for ceremonies. From ÂŁ3,000 per wedding.

For more information, call Kelly Morphew, Estate Manager, on 07860 376083 or visit

www.highfieldspark.co.uk

ama Highfields Park Farm, Beech Green Lane, Withyham, Hartfield, TN7 4DB

McKEWS CATERING

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Tailor Made Events To Suit Your Personal Requirements

Free Range Produte Batked By southborough Butthers we Spetialise In Bog Roasts & Lamb Spitroasts BBQ Meats Marinated In .ll variety OI Mouth-Watering Flavours catering From 50 to 2,000 People Private Parties, Birthdays, Anniversary's, Weddings, Fetes & Fairs For more information tall our events team on: 07791175333 or 07972 091524.

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WEDDING PLANNER Your go-to guide to get you from ‘yes’ to ‘I do’…

ONE YEAR TO GO: This is the ideal time to start making some of the bigger decisions about your wedding. Write a provisional guest list so you have an idea of numbers, as the length of your list will determine the type and size of venue you go for. Once you’ve got an idea, book appointments to see venues.

Also bear in mind that you may need to book a registrar and arrange a wedding license.

Although it might seem too early, 12 months before the wedding is also a good time to start thinking about dresses. Finding ‘the one’ can take a while and boutiques have limited weekend appointments, so there’s no harm in getting organised and booking a try-on session.

NINE MONTHS TO GO: If you’ve managed to find and book a venue then this a good time to send your guests ‘save the date’ cards to let them know about your impending nuptials.

At this stage you may be overwhelmed by websites, bridal magazines and lists. To see the bigger picture, book to go along to a wedding fair. This will give you a great idea of what’s available from cakes, caterers, bands and photographers. Plus, many exhibitors have discounted rates for brides booking on the day.

THREE MONTHS TO GO: Your guests should all have the date firmly in their diaries, but now’s the time to make it official by sending out your invites. Allow guests enough time to RSVP but also bear in mind that until you have their confirmation you won’t be able to firm up numbers and complete table plans.

SIX MONTHS TO GO: Now hopefully the bigger elements of the wedding, such as your venue, caterer and dress are all sorted, which makes way for you to focus on the finer details, like decorations and accessories for the day, bridesmaid dresses and your groom’s suit.

This is also the time to get booking – if you’re planning to have your hair and makeup done on the day, book these now. The same goes for securing a wedding car and a hotel for the night of your wedding. It’s also time to think past the wedding to the honeymoon and start making arrangements for that too.

TWO MONTHS TO GO: As the wedding gets closer there’s lots to confirm.

Choose your ceremony music, finalise your menu choices and speak to your suppliers to confirm everything is in place.

It’s also a good time to have your hair trial and start thinking about a beauty regime. Begin having pedicures so your feet are ready for the day, and if you’re having a spray tan it’s a good idea to book in a practice one first.

ONE MONTH TO GO: Obviously the most

important thing to focus on is the hen and stag parties, but also book in a final dress fitting where you can try on your shoes and accessories and give your venue copies of supplier contracts.

TWO WEEKS TO GO: Write a list of photographs you’d like on the day and give it to your photographer. If you can, meet them at your venue so you can run through everything with them. If you’re jetting off straight after your wedding, begin packing now so it’s not a stress on the big day.

WEDDING WEEK: This week will be busy but try to relax! Have some beauty treatments booked so you’re ready for the big day, confirm the final details with your venue and suppliers and get any DIY projects and setting up completed. Then, have a glass of wine and an early night before the big day commences…

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HOTEL DU VIN TUNBRIDGE WELLS THE STAGE IS SET FOR YOUR PERFECT WEDDING Sublime. One word to express the greatest of all days. With exquisite private rooms and gorgeous suites, atranquil terrace and vineyard, heavenly dining and your own dedicated events organiser, there can be no more fitting astage as you glide elegantly from ceremony to wedding breakfast and beyond. Hotel du Vin Tunbridge Wells is the perfect venue for weddings and civil partnerships.

Join us for our wedding fayre on Sunday 21st February from 10.30am until 3pm with alarge range of exhibitors including photographers, florists, room decorators, spa therapists, DJ's and more.

FREE ADMISSION I COMPLIMENTARY GLASS OF BUBBLES GREAT OFFERS ON THE DAY I FREE PARKING

01892 320 749 events.tu nbridgewel ls@hotelduvi n. corn www.HOTELDUVIN.com

HOTEL DU VIN&BISTRO TUNBRIDGE WELLS Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells TNl 2LY

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SUITS YOU SIR

Stuart Hardman from bespoke tailors Hardman and Hemming has this advice for grooms searching for the perfect suit…

GORGEOUS GOWNS Our pick of this season’s most beautiful wedding dresses

CATHERINE DEANE

Carli gown, £POA www.pantilesbride.com

Why should grooms opt for a tailored suit rather than off the peg? Firstly, it’s one of the most special days of your life and every aspect, from the venue through to the guest list is considered with great care.

Why should what the grooms wears be any different? With a tailored suit, the style, cloth and fit all work together, so the groom looks and feels as special as he should do on the big day, something that the brides already understand!

What would be your top tips when suit shopping? Think about what and when the suit is for. When are you going to wear it? All year round or just the summer/winter? For work and the commute or for special occasions? Once you know this you can pick a suit or cloth that fits the purpose.

Pay attention to how it fits. Go for classic jacket lengths; they don’t go out of style, and nothing too short. Don’t go too tight either, a jacket should give you a good silhouette. Pay particular attention to the length of the sleeves – nothing makes a jacket look ill-fitting quite like a sleeve that comes half way down the back of your hand. A decent sleeve length should stop level with your wrist bone and show a healthy mount of shirt cuff.

SO

PHASE EIGHT

Giovanna embellished wedding dress, £595 www.phase-eight.com

SUZANNE NEVILLE

Scarlet, £2,495 www.pantilesbride.com

What time frames should grooms work to when looking for a bespoke suit for their special day? Get started earlier than you think you need to, even if that’s just to start looking at the tailors that are available. On average you will be looking at six to eight weeks from being measured, with fittings in between, but you don’t want this process to start eight weeks before the wedding. Give yourself enough time to shop around, think about styles, and find the right cloth and the right tailor that you want to work with. www.hardmanandhemming.co.uk

MONSOON

Corinna dress, £499.99 www.monsoon.co.uk

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~ DOMINIC WALMSLEY

~

!

@r~yij~ AT DOMINIC WALMSLEY JEWELLERY WE SPECIALISE IN TAKING UNWORN PIECES OF CUSTOMERS JEWELLERY AND BRINGING THEM BACK TO LIFE IN NEW CONTEMPARY AND WEARABLE PIECES. TO DISCUSS A BESPOKE COMMISSION WITH DOMINIC PLEASE CONTACT US ON THE DETAILS BELOW

3 THE SQ!JARE • RIVERHEAD 01732 779 555 www.dominicwalmsley.com MADE IN LONDON

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THE SECRET DIARY OF A BRIDE TO BE Who knew suits could be so stressful, wonders our secret bride…

EVERYBODY TOLD me that getting my dress would be one of the most stressful parts of wedding planning. They weren’t wrong – it turned out I had no idea at all about what I wanted, and in the end I chose something completely different to anything I thought I’d pick. Sometimes, I have to look at my phone just to remind myself what I’ve ordered – not quite the romantic fantasy I’d envisioned the dress experience being. But, once buying my dress was out of the way, I figured everybody else’s attire would be easier to acquire. How wrong I was…

The bridesmaids weren’t a problem at all. I didn’t even plan on buying their dresses until much nearer the time, but after a few pictures were bandied back and forth via email between us, we met, went shopping, they tried on a dress they all liked and it was done and dusted before we’d even sat down for lunch. The groomsmen on the other hand…where do I even begin?

The original plan was for the men to wear navy suits. Simple enough – these could be

hired a few weeks before the wedding. But then we went to a lot of weddings last year, and at each one the bridal party (plus a fair few guests) were sporting navy suits. So that idea was quashed.

Long before we were even engaged, my fiancé expressed an interest in wearing tweed to get married in, so I suggested this as an alternative to the navy. “Maybe a grey herringbone?” I proposed.

We looked in to hire options, but there were very few, and we quickly realised that to have tweed we were going to need to buy outright. We decided that we’d need to buy them over winter because by the time the summer came there would be no wool blend jackets to be found, so we set about sourcing some.

My fiancé was still keen on the navy idea, and after much searching and some stressful trips to department stores, we found one he liked. He sent a picture to ‘the boys’ and they all approved. We seemed good to go.

Then, the day I returned home from shopping with ‘the girls’, four grey

bridesmaid dresses in hand, my husband to be suddenly decided that actually, maybe he wanted grey too. So, we duly ordered eight dark grey tweed jackets in varying sizes.

I have spoken before of my love for Pinterest, but it’s something my fiancé doesn’t indulge in. Or rather, didn’t indulge in. One day he was perusing and came across an image of a man in a light grey tweed jacket. “That’s what I want to look like on our wedding day,” he declared. So his jacket went back, and we hunted for something lighter.

Eventually we found one and I ordered it, at the same time returning most of the original jackets because helpfully, most of the groomsmen had given us incorrect sizes.

As I write this, the final jacket has just arrived. Whether they’ll be the final choice remains to be seen, but I think it’s fair to say that despite what men believe, girls are definitely easier to buy for…

Next month find out why our bride to be is in a catering conundrum…

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THE VISITING TAILORS TuNBHJDGE WELLS AND ACROSS KENT & SussEX

07446 092561 enquiries@harclm ananclhemming. co. uk www.harclmananclhemming.co. uk

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QUESTION TIME Everything you need to ask for the perfect wedding day

VENUE ◆ What availability do you have? ❏ ◆ Are you licensed for civil ceremonies? ❏ ◆ Do you offer packages, and if so, what’s included? ❏ ◆ How many guests can we have during the day, and how many later? ❏ ◆ Do you have fixed suppliers we must use? ❏ ◆ Do you charge corkage if we want to supply our own drinks? ❏ ◆ Do you allow live music, and do you have a sound limiter if you do? ❏ DRESS BOUTIQUE ◆ Who should I bring to my appointment? ❏ ◆ How far in advance do I need to order my dress? ❏ ◆ How much will alterations cost? ❏ ◆ How many fittings will I need? ❏ ◆ When will the dress be ready for me to collect? ❏ FLORIST ◆ What flowers will be in season? ❏ ◆ Will we need to provide vases and containers? ❏ ◆ Are you able to deliver to our venue and set up the arrangements? ❏ ◆ How much notice do you need? ❏

CATERER ◆ What do your costs include? ❏ ◆ Will you provide glassware, crockery and silverware? ❏ ◆ Can we have a menu tasting? ❏ ◆ How many serving staff will be required, and is there an extra charge for this? ❏ ◆ Can you provide options for vegetarians and guests with food allergies? ❏ ◆ How long do you think the meal will take from start to finish? ❏ ◆ Are you able to provide food for the evening too? ❏ HAIR AND MAKEUP ◆ Can I see a portfolio of work you’ve done before? ❏ ◆ Does your salon have a makeup artist? ❏ ◆ How soon before the wedding will I need a trial? ❏ ◆ How soon before the wedding should I get my hair cut and/or coloured? ❏ ◆ Do you do home visits or will I need to come to the salon? ❏ ◆ Do you offer hair extensions if I need them? ❏ F E B R UA RY 2 0 1 6

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BRIDAL BEAUTY Our seven step guide to getting that beautiful bridal glow...

FOUNTAIN

GLOW MOLECULE, £38 Glowing, radiant skin is something all brides want for the biggest day of their lives, so enter Fountain’s Glow Molecule – a daily drink that does wonders for your complexion.

Containing master antioxidant glutathione, after just one week you’ll start to see results – brighter, healthier looking skin, worthy of a bridal Pinterest inspiration board! www.fountain.co

REDKEN

CLINIQUE

TAKE THE DAY OFF CLEANSING OIL, £22 At the end of a hectic day the temptation can be to crawl straight into bed, but cleaning your skin and taking off your makeup is still important – especially on your wedding day, where it’s likely you’ll be wearing more makeup than usual. Luckily Clinique’s brilliant Take the day off Cleansing Oil removes everything – just smooth on to skin, add water and it works its magic so you can be asleep and dreaming about the day in minutes. www.clinique.co.uk

TARTE

VITABIOTICS

PERFECTIL PLATINUM, 30 TABLETS £23.95 On your wedding day you’ll want everything to be at its best – including your skin, hair and nails, so start your preparations early and invest in some Perfectil tablets. Containing a multitude of vitamins, taking these tablets daily will ensure you’re looking your most gorgeous and glowing from within. www.vitabiotics.com

COLOURED CLAY LIQUID FOUNDATION, £30 For one of the biggest days of your life you’ll be wanting a foundation that not only leaves you looking flawless, but lasts all day. Tarte’s Coloured Clay Liquid Foundation has met with rave reviews – and for good reason. A little goes a long way, and you’re left with a smooth, dewy complexion. On a day when you know you’ll always need to be camera ready, this foundation won’t disappoint. www.qvcuk.com

WINDBLOWN FINISHING SPRAY, £13.55 If you’re looking to style your own hair for your wedding, and want a product that’ll give great definition and texture while holding your hair in place, then invest in a can of Redken’s Windblown Finishing Spray and you won’t be disappointed.

Tousled, boho locks are all the rage for wedding hair, and a spritz of this will help to create a dreamy, ‘undone’ ‘do. Plus, it smells great too! www.hairtrade.com

MURAD

RENEWING EYE CREAM, £67 The chances are, the night before your wedding you’re not going to get as much beauty sleep as you’d like – but disguising those tired eyes is easy with Murad’s Renewing Eye Cream. As well as hydrating the eye area, it banishes dark circles, reduces puffiness and illuminates, so any signs of stresses or fatigue will be well and truly hidden.

Perhaps buy one for the groom too… www.murad.co.uk

BOBBI BROWN

MASK TRIO, £33 EACH In the build up to your big day you’ll want to indulge in some pampering, but Bobbi Brown’s new face mask range means you can get the spa experience from the comfort of your home.

The clay-based Instant Detox draws out impurities, Skin Nourish moisturises and Radiance Boost smoothes the skin’s appearance. Gather your bridesmaids for a pre-nuptial pampering session and you’ll all see the benefits. www.bobbibrown.co.uk

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Maaic at Weddinas Ifs Your maaical daY. so why not add sparkle and amazement with some maaic from Stuart and Maaic at Weddinas Durin!! the Photo!!raPhs With the spotlight on you, the happy couple, a lot of your guests are standing around waiting. This is the perfect time for 5 . close-up magic right in front of their eyes.

Durin!! the meal This is the time for some amazing table magic. At the top table you ' ll hear your guests' laughter and applause as the magician works his magic around the room.

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St Julians Club LAN fXCLUSIVE PRIVATE lMEMBERS' (LUE A secret hideaway in the Weald of Kent, St Julians is an elegant Georgian country house just outside of Sevenoaks. Surrounded by woodland and landscaped gardens with breath-taking views across the rolling countryside, St Julians is an exceptional venue for your event.

Our beautiful listed rooms leading to a flagstone terrace are the perfect setting for music and drinks. St Julians suits dinner parties, charity balls and informal birthday parties of 10 to 150.

We still have dates available in 2016 - get in touch with us to discuss availability and prices, or visit our website for further information.

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GUIDE FOR BRIDES Real brides share their top tips for enjoying your big day…

“I have two top tips: one, throughout the day, stop and take little mental pictures, literally pausing for a second and freezeframing your brain, to help you remember moments and (hopefully) stop everything passing in a complete blur. And two, while you should limit your booze intake (to avoid erasing your memory...), you should also assign someone to go to the bar for you – you will never make it across the room without 20 of your nearest and dearest stopping you to chat, and before you know it another hour has gone by without a gin!”

Becky Bassett, 27, tied the knot in a festival style wedding in Staplehurst last summer

LYNSEY GRACE PHOTOGRAPHY

CAMERA HANNAH

Alyson Spicer, 30, got married at High Rocks in Tunbridge Wells in April 2015

“Remember that it is NOT the end of the world if things don’t go perfectly and that too much Pinterest can be detrimental to getting the wedding you REALLY want – by all means use it for ideas but don’t get too hung up on replicating every idea to the letter. Remember that life isn’t perfect and that there are likely to be a few bumps on the day, but that will just make you stronger and give you some brilliant stories to tell the grandchildren!

Good luck – I hope your day is as perfect as ours was!”

Laura Jackman, 26, wed her husband Martin in spring 2013 “Remember to eat, regardless of how excited or stressed you are on the day. I have witnessed many brides eat little to nothing on the morning of their nuptials, and then proceed to go ahead with one of the biggest events of their lives on an empty stomach – not good, if you want your mood and blood sugar levels to remain at a reasonable level. A family friend of mine popped over on my wedding morning with smoked salmon and cream cheese bagels for breakfast; what a life saver that was!”

Claire Kidman, 30, is getting married at the Secret Garden this September “I’d say do something little and often from when you get engaged – it saves a panic three months before the big day. And do what you as a couple want to do. Listen politely to the many, many pieces of advice and opinions you’ll get from family and friends, but ultimately it’s your day – so have it your way.

Be unique and creative!”

Jenny Flynn, 33 said her vows in 2011 at Hadlow Manor “It’s worth spending extra money on wedding rings and a good photographer – they’re the things that will last forever and the photos will be your main memories as the ones in your head fade over the years.

Think about what photos/poses you’d like to have on your wall and make sure your photographer knows them.

Also, I’d say get the venue to save you some wedding cake to take home – I never got to have any of mine!”

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CRAFT YOUR PERFECT DAY Marrianne Mercer from Southborough has written a book to help brides create the ideal DIY wedding. Here she shares her advice…

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ARE THE BENEFITS OF A DIY WEDDING?

The benefits are huge, particularly from a financial point of view; makings lots, saves lots, especially if you get friends and family involved to help you make a few items. You can also take a cheap, blank canvas venue such as a village hall, and turn it into something really special.

By making lots of decorations for your wedding you can get the exact look, colour and design that you want rather than relying on what is commercially available and usually twice the price. It also gives you a huge opportunity to make it really personal by using photographs of yourselves or making the table names mean something special to you. It creates a huge talking point amongst all your guests with a handmade and striking venue.

and choose a venue accordingly, or be very confident that you can hand-make everything you want. Once you have decided on the scale of your DIY projects, make sure you measure your venues thoroughly to make sure you can make enough of everything to achieve the look you want to. Go back after making a few items and mock them up in situ – this really helped me as I then knew how much of an impact everything had and that my quantities were correct. Keep lots of pictures for inspiration on the sort of items you might like and where you might be able to buy or hire them from just in case you run out of time.

HOW EASY IS IT TO DO A HANDMADE WEDDING IF YOU’RE NOT VERY CRAFTY OR GOOD AT MAKING THINGS?

You don’t have to be crafty to make things, you just need good instruction and practice. I’m hoping my book provides a fool proof selection of stepby-step projects that will help any bride or groom create their day. Crafty items can be really simple so people shouldn’t be put off by the idea at all. It can be great fun roping in friends and family to help you. Also people don’t really sit and judge every item you have made – there’s room for a few little errors.

Guests will not go round inspecting every petal on your pompoms, they will look at the decoration as a whole!

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WHAT WERE YOUR FAVOURITE HANDMADE

WHAT ARE YOUR

ELEMENTS FROM YOUR

TOP TIPS FOR

WEDDING?

A DIY WEDDING?

My favourite elements were the pom poms and the paper table flowers. They were really full of beauty on the day because the colours were so vibrant in the sunshine. They added so much colour to our venues that it really made our church and village hall look full of celebration and happiness.

Be organised and make lists.

If you make as many items as I did you need to be organised, measure everything at least twice, do trial runs and delegate craft projects to friends and family who hold the skills that you don’t.

Marrianne’s book My

WHERE SHOULD SOMEONE

Handmade Wedding is

PLANNING A HANDMADE

published by Search

WEDDING START?

Press and is available

You need to be sure of what you want to make for your wedding

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from February 8.

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WEDDINGS

SAM YARDLEY

HELEN ENGLAND

WWW.REBECCADOUGLAS.CO.UK

SAM YARDLEY

SO

OLD-WORLD CHARM IN A BOHEMIAN ATMOSPHERE From the lounge and conservatory to the smaller gallery, St Julians in Sevenoaks provides the perfect space for you and your partner to exchange your vows to one another. We find out more about how this fabulous venue combines tradition and elegance to make your dreams come true Weddings at St Julians – Elegant, Relaxed, Unique St Julians is an elegant Georgian country house just outside Sevenoaks, which has been a private members’ club since the 1950s. We offer a beautiful and intimate venue for your wedding ceremony or reception. Overlooking the Weald of Kent and surrounded by beautiful manicured gardens, St Julians offers a unique yet traditional venue for your special day.

Wedding co-ordinators Bronwen Wells and Nell Williams have many years’ experience hosting and planning wedding receptions; they will take a personal interest in attending to every detail of your wedding in order to create the perfect day.

What makes a wedding at St Julians special?

St Julians is an elegant venue with an old-world charm and bohemian atmosphere that you will love. We don’t hide any costs or offer package weddings, as we believe that every wedding should be designed around the couple.

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Part of the appeal to planning weddings is the variety; no two weddings are alike and every couple has their own ideas and vision for their day. Once we have met the bride and groom and have a clear understanding of how they would like the day to work, we focus on making sure the day is as individual, exciting and memorable as wished for. It’s the little details that make all the difference, and our experienced team will help plan everything to perfection.

We like to meet the bride and groom several times before the wedding and are always available to answer questions; by getting to know our team really well, you will feel completely at home on your big day. It is exciting for us when the bride and groom first arrive at the club on their wedding day – all the organisation and planning rewarded with a day like no other.

Do you have a favourite kind of wedding to organise?

We love a wedding where the bride and groom’s personalities can really shine

through, using a theme to highlight their style – but with a touch of fun.

Whether it is classic, vintage, opulent or retro, we love to see the intimate touches that couples add that make their wedding their own.

Any advice you would offer to couples with a tight budget?

Even when on a limited budget, your wedding day should be an event to remember. Make it an experience; this doesn’t have to be expensive! Keep it simple; the little things seem important, but you and your guests are the most important things. We can help tailor your day – that’s the beauty of a bespoke wedding. A wedding where you have added your own personality doesn’t have to cost the Earth.

St Julians Club Rumshott Estate Ltd, St Julians, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0RX 01732 458 261 www.stjulians.co.uk

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WEDDINGS

FINISHING TOUCHES So, you’ve booked the venue, bought the dress and sent the invites – but what about those little extras that can help bring your wedding to life? From wine tastings for fabulous hen dos, to stunning jewellery that will make you look radiant on the big day, here are some extra flourishes to consider

The Wedding Experience Inspiration and ideas for your wedding day The joy of planning your wedding will begin the moment you arrive at The Wedding Experience at The Royal Wells Hotel on Sunday February 7.

Browse at leisure to discover the latest trends – taste the cake, touch the invitations, smell the flowers and listen to the music. This is your chance to meet with local specialists who really care about making your wedding day special, and helping you to style it your way and to your budget.

For those of you just beginning to plan your

wedding day, it’s a chance to meet with The Royal Wells wedding co-ordinators to view their fabulous wedding and reception facilities. Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony with close family and friends, or a lavish celebration, The Royal Wells can provide the tailor-made wedding day of your dreams. As a licensed wedding venue, the hotel can offer couples a complete package and a variety of accommodation, including the luxurious Honeymoon Suite.

This show is absolutely brimming with inspiration for your wedding day.

These suppliers will provide an unrivalled service, all of their experience, and of course attention to the detail, which will make your wedding so special. Combining a comprehensive range of wedding experts all in one location, planning your perfect wedding day in Kent has never been easier.

Admission free.

Pre-register at www.wedding-experience.co.uk

And do make a date in your diary to visit Kent’s largest show at The Kent Showground, Detling, on Sunday April 17. Arranged over two vast arenas, this event is host to more than 200 exhibitors, and you’ll be able to enjoy amazing fashion shows and listen to live entertainment onstage throughout the day.

Sugar & Yeast

Mark Adam

Sugar & Yeast is the South East’s best wine-tasting business! Our tastings are the perfect balance of fun and learning, pitched so that everyone gets something from the event. Great for hen parties, corporate groups or birthday celebrations, a memorable tasting awaits! Even better, we come to you – home, garden, function room, wherever! www.sugarandyeast.co.uk

Mark Adam opened in 2002 and has become the premier destination for original engagement and wedding rings in Tunbridge Wells. Owner and award-winning goldsmith, Adam Godfrey, has his own workshop and design studio on site, so not only can you peruse our stunning collection of British and European brands in the showroom, but also commission your own bespoke rings. Mark Adam is also delighted to offer a special ‘spruce-up’ service for your wedding jewellery in preparation for the big day – so be sure to register for the service as soon as you have set the date, and of course, if the jewellery is from Mark Adam, then it’s our gift to you. www.markadam.co.uk

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THE LOOK

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EXPERT OPINION

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE ON YOUR HEALTH, BEAUTY AND WELLBEING

problems such as torn or ‘slipped’ discs.

Sciatica is a common problem, which can be caused by a number of conditions that inflame the sciatic nerve, with common symptoms being pain, numbness and ‘pins and needles’ down one leg.

Certain causes of lower back pain have a tendency to occur more often in younger versus older people. For instance, younger adults (aged 30 to 60) are more likely to experience back pain from the disc space itself (e.g. lumbar disc herniation or degenerative disc disease), or from a back muscle or other soft tissue strain. Older adults (aged 60-plus), meanwhile, are more likely to suffer from pain related to joint degeneration (e.g. osteoarthritis or spinal stenosis), or from a compression fracture.

WHAT CAN BE DONE TO PREVENT SERIOUS BACK PROBLEMS? Keeping to a healthy weight and exercising regularly is the best approach. Light

MUSCULOSKELETAL CONDITIONS: THE NEW EPIDEMIC AFFECTING THE NATION’S ABILITY TO WORK OR PLAY

exercise, such as walking, cycling,

With one in four adults likely to suffer from the discomfort and distress caused by back pain in their lifetime, the staff at Benenden Hospital in Cranbrook offer some insights into the issues surrounding musculoskeletal conditions…

IF I DO HURT MY BACK, WHAT

S

swimming and gardening will help to keep your body and back toned.

SHOULD I DO? Minor strains can be resolved with a few days’ rest and taking simple painkillers, but for severe pain you should see your GP.

uffering from back pain is an issue

muscle strains or ligament sprains are

They will decide if physiotherapy can help,

that doesn’t just affect individuals,

classified as acute, while longer-term

or whether you are going to need to be

but also their families and

problems, typically lasting more than three

referred for an x-ray or MRI scan, as a

months, are classified as chronic.

precursor to seeing a consultant.

for sickness in the workplace. But for the

WHY DO SO MANY PEOPLE SUFFER

Benenden Hospital offers a full range of

individual, lower back pain simply means

FROM BACK PAIN?

diagnostic services, supporting some of the

one thing – pain and discomfort.

The human spine is designed to be strong

UK’s best-qualified orthopaedic

enough to protect the spinal cord and nerve

consultants, including specialists in back

musculoskeletal issue and can be caused

roots, but flexible enough for mobility.

disorders. It also has a fully equipped

by a variety of problems with any part of

However, it has extreme stresses put on it

physiotherapy department, staffed by

the complex mechanism that makes up the

just from standing, walking, sitting and

highly qualified physiotherapists.

lumbar spine. While lower back pain is

particularly lifting. Outside of accidents or

extremely common, the symptoms and

injuries, we can expect our spine to

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severity of the pain can vary greatly, and

degenerate over time, through simple wear

services offered by Benenden Hospital,

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and tear. Excessive bending, twisting or

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or chronic. Short-term issues caused by

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employers too, with musculoskeletal problems being by far the largest reason

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EVENT

SO

SOCIAL HAPPY MONDAYS Dame Kelly Holmes was the guest of honour at the Pickering Cancer Drop-in Centre when they held a launch to celebrate their new opening hours.

The charity, which helps people affected by cancer have added Mondays to their availability, meaning that they are now open four days a week. Also in attendance were the mayor and mayoress of Tunbridge Wells, and many people who have benefitted from the work the charity has done over the years. www.pickeringcancercentre.org.uk PHOTOS BY DAVID BARTHOLOMEW

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EVENT

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SOCIAL EDUCATION CELEBRATION Staff, students and guests gathered at Benenden School for a drinks reception hosted by Headmistress Samantha Price. The event was a joint celebration of the school’s new glossy magazine, The Term, and the opening of the new village shop, Benenden’s. The new shop was made possible by the school buying the building and leasing the premises to the community group which runs Benenden’s. It has also created accommodation above it for school staff.

PHOTOS BY BENENDEN SCHOOL STUDENT CHELUCHI IGWEH

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EVENT

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SOCIAL SAVOY STYLE There was much excitement at The Savoy hotel in London, when they celebrated the launch of their new in-house publication, titled Savoy the Magazine. Published by Tunbridge Wells-based company One Media, who also produce So and The Times of Tunbridge Wells, the inaugural issue of the luxury magazine was launched in style over drinks and canapés in the iconic hotel.

“We pride ourselves on being a hotel built on stories, and are thrilled to be launching such a platform that will enable us to share these stories with our readers,” says Kiaran MacDonald, managing director of The Savoy. “It has been a pleasure working with One Media on Savoy Magazine and to see The Savoy brought to life through the pages of this luxury publication”.

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22/01/2016 17:23

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SO

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EVENT

SO

SOCIAL MANY MERRIMENTS Around 1,500 revellers celebrated alongside Dame Kelly Holmes to see in the New Year for Hug-Many in Tunbridge Wells.

Marking its second year at The Pantiles, the fundraiser for the Pickering Cancer Drop-in Centre gained £7,500 on the night, with organisers also taking further donations online.

The evening featured music from the Blues Brothers Little Brother, a live bagpiper and a fireworks finale.

Event founder Ian Andrew, of Michael James Insurance, said it had been a great success which built on initial festivities staged last year that raised a tally of £15,000 for its causes. The event also fundraised for the Ellenor children’s care charity.

PHOTOS BY DAVID BARTHOLOMEW

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EVENT

SOCIAL SAY CHEESE Cheese lovers no longer have to make a trip to France to stock up on their favourite fromages, after a new deli shop opened its doors on Tunbridge Wells High Street, and held a launch event to showcase their wares.

Fromage & French, the brainchild of local mum GaĂŤlle Coyle and owner of West Kent Networking Belinda Raitt, was created because both have French connections, and decided to bring their love of the cuisine to Tunbridge Wells. The launch night last month saw local foodies enjoy cheese and wine (what else?) while learning more about the new venture. www.fromageandfrench.com

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EVENT

PHOTO SHOOT

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A monthly roundup of socials and other events across our part of the world

WEDDING PLANS To celebrate the launch of exciting new company The Wedding Calendar, a bridal-filled introduction event was held at Donnington Manor Hotel in Sevenoaks, where founder Neil de Villiers introduced the new concept.

As well as live entertainment and showcases by bridal retailers, guests were invited to learn more about The Wedding Calendar – a business which it is a date listing of available services for the wedding industry and aims to help make wedding planning easier. www.weddingcalendar.co.uk

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY A collection of winning images from the prestigious International Garden Photographer of the Year (IGPOTY) competition are now being displayed at National Trust, Sissinghurst after an official launch last month. Until 28 February, the iconic Sissinghurst Castle will play host to some of the best garden, plant and landscape photography from amateur and professional photographers across the globe.

“We are really excited to be hosting the exhibition this year, there’s a great set of images to see and we’ve got some surprises too from our garden team who have helped to bring it to life and a little of outdoors inside,” says Kate Shaw, Events and Marketing Manager at Sissinghurst Castle. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ sissinghurst-castle-garden

PUTTING IT ON PAPER Art enthusiasts gathered at the Tunbridge Wells Museum for the launch of their new exhibition Polish Papercuts last month.

The exhibition, curated by Justyna Pyz, brings together examples of the Polish folk art, Wycinanki, from the collections of the Horniman Museum and Gardens. On display are extraordinary paper cuts commissioned by the Horniman in 2010, including pieces by renowned artists such as Apolonia Nowak from the Kurpie region and Helena Miazek from Lowicz, together with contemporary responses from the Polish community of Tunbridge Wells.

CRAIG MATTHEWS

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W O W F E AT U R E

SO

WELLS CONNECTED We take a look at how Tunbridge Wells has taken centre stage…

“IS THAT TUNBRIDGE WELLS?” – it’s the question frequently asked by residents as they spot a shot of the town crop up on screen – in adverts, films and TV programmes the town regularly features, while off-screen it’s not uncommon to spot a celebrity sipping a cup of coffee on The Pantiles, or updating their wardrobe from boutiques on the High Street.

Of course, famous faces frequenting the town isn’t uncommon – with the likes of the Trinity theatre and the Assembly Halls regularly playing host to some of the biggest names in theatre, music and comedy, there’s a good chance that even if you couldn’t get your hands on a ticket, you’d catch a glimpse of said star grabbing a coffee on the go in-between rehearsals.

And then there’s the rumours – the

times someone hears on the grapevine that Brad Pitt will be shooting his latest movie here, or that Johnny Depp was spotted brunching. There’s no denying that Tunbridge Wells is a celebrity hotspot, so here we take a look at just some of those who were educated, lived or worked in the town, and the appearances Tunbridge Wells has made on our screens…

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FROM THE ARCHIVES Those who made history in Tunbridge Wells

BEAU NASH If you’ve visited the Beau Nash pub on Mount Ephraim, you may have puzzled over your pint as to where it got its name from – the answer: one of Tunbridge Wells’ first ‘celebrities’, Beau Nash, who was Master of Ceremonies in the town from 1735 to 1761. He was responsible for making the town a fashionable resort; one frequented by royalty and many notable names of the time.

WILLIAM MAKEPEACE THACKERAY Author and poet, William Thackeray, most noted for his satirical works Vanity Fair lived in the town from 1860, in Rock Villa – a 17th century house now best known as restaurant Thackeray’s.

The writer, who was, at the time as noteworthy as Charles Dickens, penned Tunbridge Toys while residing in the town, which he published as part of the Roundabout Papers in the Cornhill Magazine. Having spent time as a child in the town, in the essay he recalls these memories, writing: ‘I see Tunbridge Wells Common and the rocks, the strange familiar place which I remember forty years ago.’

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TOP OF THE CLASS Some of the stars who went to school in the town

JO BRAND

Comedian Jo Brand was born in London, but moved to Kent at a young age, and began her education in Sevenoaks before moving to Benenden where she lived in a converted oast house just outside of the village. She attended Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School until she was 16, where she excelled at languages – her favourite subjects being French, German and Latin. Although Jo now lives in London with her husband and two children, she often refers to herself as a ‘Kentish maid’ and has stated that she would like to return to the area one day.

DOUGLAS BOOTH

It may barely seem five minutes since Douglas Booth was at school, but since his days at Bennett Memorial he’s gone on to be quite the Hollywood heartthrob.

Not long after leaving education, in 2009 Booth landed his first big break, starring in children’s adventure movie From Time to Time, directed by Downton Abbey ’s Julian Fellowes. Since then, Douglas has gone on to model for Burberry, appear in Noah alongside Emma Watson, and last year in Jupiter Ascending alongside Mila Kunis, Eddie Redmayne and Channing Tatum.

VIRGINIA WADE

The only British woman in history to have won titles at all four Grand Slam tournaments, former tennis ace Virginia Wade OBE was educated right here in Tunbridge Wells, at Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School, which she attended from the age of 15 after moving from South Africa. It was during her time there that she was given the chance to play on Centre Court, aged just 17.

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W O W F E AT U R E

SO

TOWN SOUNDS

Noteable musicians with connections to Tunbridge Wells

SLAVES

SID VICIOUS

SHANE MACGOWAN

Garage-punk band Slaves have become big on the music scene in the last 18 months, but one half of the duo, Isaac Holman hails from Tunbridge Wells, and met fellow bandmate Laurie Vincent when the pair were teenagers. The duo later performed together, before breaking off to create their own sound.

Now, they’re played all around the world and have a series of accolades under their belts, including the Mercury Prize for album of the year in 2015.

During his very short life, the Sex Pistols frontman, Sid Vicious (real name John Richie) spent a brief time living in Tunbridge Wells, in a rented flat in Lime Hill Road with his mother Anne. He attended Sandown Court School (now Skinners’ Academy) for three years, from 1969 to 1971 and his time in the town clearly had a knock-on effect, inspiring 80s punk band the Anti-Nowhere League, the members of which also hailed from Tunbridge Wells.

Best known as the lead singer of The Pogues, Shane MacGowan, is often assumed to be from Ireland, but was actually born in Pembury on December 25 1957, before moving away to Tipperary. A few years later, his parents moved back to England, and Shane went on to attend Holmewood House School in Langton Green.

HOME FROM HOME Over the years, many stars have resided in the town.

Here are some who currently live in the area…

DAVINA MCCALL

Often spotted around the town and a regular at the TWPT personal training centre, TV presenter and fitness lover Davina McCall lives in neighbouring village Wadhurst, where she’s resided for the past seven years. Although she enjoys country life, she has previously spoken about a need for living near a town and proclaimed her love for Tunbridge Wells in an interview with The Telegraph, saying: “The trick is to live no more than 10 minutes from a happening town…a multiplex cinema, restaurants, bars, a Topshop, a White Company and a Cath Kidston.”

JEFF BECK

World-renowned guitarist Jeff Beck, whose works include appearing on albums by Mick Jagger, Jon Bon Jovi and Stevie Wonder, can, like Davina Mccall, also be found residing in Wadhurst. He has many local connections too – one being that he is patron for Tunbridge Wells animal rescue charity the Folly Wildlife Trust, which he became involved with after calling them to assist with a deer incident.

BOB MORTIMER

Comedian Bob Mortimer may have been born in Middlesborough, but he’s long been considered a Tunbridge Wells local and has lived all over Kent since moving to the county.

Residents of Tunbridge Wells often spot the star in Royal Victoria Place and in Grove Hill stores, but in an interview with The Guardian the funnyman admitted he’s prone to pulling his Mercedes up in spots across the town and taking a nap – so keep your eyes peeled for the star sleeping somewhere near you soon.

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W O W F E AT U R E

TINSELTOWN The times Tunbridge Wells has made its way on to our screens…

1967

HALF A SIXPENCE This British musical film, starring Tommy Steele and Julia Foster saw filming take place on The Pantiles, where the area became the set for Shalfords Emporium.

2005

PRIDE & PREJUDICE

MORRISON’S ADVERTS Supermarket Morrison’s were obviously taken with Tunbridge Wells as a filming destination, because after using the town as a backdrop for its Christmas advert in 2007 with singer Lulu fronting the campaign, they returned to the town in 2009 – this time filming on The Pantiles and Calverley Grounds with television personalities Richard Hammond and Denise Van Outen.

2012

LANDROVER

PREMIER INN

2007 & 2009

KENT FILM OFFICE

Just outside of the town you’ll find Groombridge Place, which became the setting for a film adaption of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, starring, among others, Kiera Knightley and Judi Dench.

While most people can’t drive their 4x4 vehicles through the busy pavements of Tunbridge Wells, Landrover were granted access, and filmed their Freelander 2 advert in the iconic Pantiles.

2012

ONE DIRECTION The biggest boyband in the world have to source secluded locations to film their videos, so where better than Eridge Park as the setting for their Live While We’re Young video? At the time, the official line was that they had filmed at a “secret location,” but the true identity of the site was soon revealed.

2015

PREMIER INN Eagle-eyed locals may have spotted that, in Premier Inn’s latest advert, one of the locations appears to be Tunbridge Wells – some benches up on Mount Ephraim in fact.

Thankfully, the background isn’t the Travelodge, which is just a few metres down the road from the location shown.

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79 Tonbridge Road, Hildenborough, Kent, TN11 9BH

We build our mortgages around you All homes are different. The same applies to the need for home financing. Therefore we offer individual and flexible solutions for all your mortgage needs and requirements. We can find a financial solution to suit your needs whether buying a new home or remortgaging.

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Come along and find out how you can prevent your home having to be sold if you go into care.

Two FREE seminars with a FREE lunch or supper, each for up to 75 people being conducted at: THE LOUNGE, CAMDEN CENTRE, MARKET SQUARE, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, TNl 2SW on: THURSDAY 18TH FEBRUARY 2016

Handi

ofH

Afternoon Seminar

Evening Seminar

Arrive 12.45pm for coffee and registration Seminar 1pm - 1.45pm Lunch served from 1.45pm Draw at 2.30pm

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Book your place in advance and receive your Golden Ticket.

During lunch and supper we will draw one lucky winner who will get their unregistered Lasting power of Attorney grants for Health and Welfare and Property and Financial Affairs (as a single person or a couple) arranged for them completely free of charge.

Call us now on 01892 278171 to reserve your place www.thywill.co. uk

Numbers strictly limited to 75 for each seminar

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BUSINESS

SO

BUSINESS NEWS OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE LOCAL BUSINESS WORLD

INDUSTRY AWARD

SHINING DESIGN

Kitchen designers and manufacturers Rencraft are celebrating the win of a prestigious industry award. The Sevenoaks business won in the Design category of the 2016 Best of Houzz Design awards for its work, which was the most popular among more than 35million monthly users of the home remodelling and design website. Liza Hausman, vice president of industry marketing for Houzz, says: “We’re delighted to join our community of homeowners and design enthusiasts in recognising our ‘Best of Houzz’ professionals around the world.” The Best of Houzz is awarded annually in three categories: Design, Customer Service and Photography. www.rencraft.co.uk

➧ gold getters Tunbridge Wells estate agents Maddisons Residential have won Gold and been crowned Best Single Office in the South East, at this year’s Estate Agency of the Year Awards. The judges commented that Maddisons had gone from strength to strength since their Silver award in 2014, implementing a range of innovative initiatives. Managing partner Deborah Richards says: “I had a real vision of what I wanted Maddisons to symbolise when I set up the business three years ago, and it is wonderful to see this vision become a reality, which is recognised by the most prestigious award in the business.” www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk

HOTEL HOPES More than 50 jobs will be created with the development of the new boutique hotel in Tunbridge Wells, One Warwick Park. The 38-bedroom, four-star venue, which was formerly The Brew House and has been welcomed by local property experts, is under development and set to be completed this summer. As a major investment in the area’s economy, the new site will be seeking new staff across the business. Head of recruitment for One Warwick Park, Kate Awcock, says: “This unique and beautifully designed hotel offers fantastic opportunities for people who may not have considered a career in hospitality before.” www.onewarwickpark.co.uk

TRIPLE TROPHIES Handelsbanken, the local relationship bank with a branch in Tunbridge Wells, has welcomed news of three independent awards. The fastgrowing banking, wealth and investment management provider attracted awards from Financial Times and Investors Chronicle magazine (Best Private Bank), financial magazine International Banker (Best Customer Service Provider of the Year – Western Europe), and Citywire Wealth Manager magazine (Best Overall Medium Firm for wealth and investment management business, Heartwood). Tunbridge Wells branch manager Nick Green says: “As a bank built on strong and lasting relationships, we focus first and foremost on satisfying our customers by providing the best local advice and service we can every day.” www.handelsbanken.co.uk

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Beautiful new farmshop recently opened on the A267 10 miles south of Tunbridge Wells I Open 7 days

Locally Sourced meat by Leppards Butchers of Mayfield Full range of groceries I Fresh, local vegetables & fruit Deli counter & local cheeses I Gifts Licensed Cafe I Home cooked breakfasts & lunches Homemade Cakes I Coffee Bar

Got something to

Share ?â&#x20AC;˘

If you've got an offer, event or news story we would love to share it with our thousands of @SoMagazines followers

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--* * *

* * *-

ABERGAVENNY ARMS SINCE 1450 Our Menu is a mixture of traditional and modern British cuisine. Fresh Colchester oysters and Orkney mussels are on offer whenever in season. Our food is freshly prepared on the premises and our ingredients are locally sourced wherever possible .

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Every Wednesday night enjoy a 12oz steak & whole lobster with fries, bearnaise sauce and a bottle of house wine, for 2 to share.

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OPENING HOURS 11am to 11pm Monday to Saturday & from 12pm Sundays BOOK A TABLE TODAY 01892 750 233 I 750 933 FIND US: The Avergavenny Arms is an imposing 15th century coaching inn located on

Frant Rd, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 9DB WEB: www.abergavennyarms.co.uk

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EMAIL: abergavennyarms@outlook.com

22/01/2016 15:47

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We re9ret to inform ~ou that our Restaurant will be closed from Monda~ 18th Januar~ This is due to the dama9e caused by last Au9usts ~oodin9. We are installin9 a whole new kitchen, new ~oorin9 in the Restaurant, alon9 with new furniture. We apolo9ise for any inconvenience this may cause, and look forward to welcomin9 you back towards the end of March.

Thank you for your loyalty and custom.

01892 534497 14 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbrid9e Wells, Kent, TN11QU

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ROYAL WELLS HOTEL TUNBRIDGE WELLS

~-cV~Vi £39 per person

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To start

Mains

Desserts

Parsnip and artichoke soup, beetroot pesto and parsnip crisps (v)

Individual beef Wellington dauphinoise potatoes, baby vege~ables & a red wine jus

Warm white chocolate and raspberry fondant Vanilla panna cotta, blue berry compote and shortbread

Seared scallops, cauliflower and pea puree, black pudding, sun blushed tomatoes and crispy black forest ham

Fillet of sea bass, wilted spinach, saffron and mussel chowder

Pressed chicken and fois gras terrine, Kent Bramley apple chutney and Melba toast

Chicken breast stuffed with asparagus and smoked pancetta with crushed new potatoes, glazed sugar snaps and red pepper coulis

Wild mushroom and mascarpone risotto with parmesan crisps and micro herbs (v)

Hazelnut crusted rump of lamb, slow cooked shoulder, celeriac puree and wilted greens

-~~~~

Tel: 01892 511 T 188

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Cheese and biscuits

We are offering the menu over 2 nights Saturday 12th and Sunday 14th Feb

Spinach, feta and sun blushed tomato tart, wild mushroom ragout and roasted new potatoes (v)

Passion fruit sorbet

Sticky toffee and ginger tart vanilla ice cream and caramel s:uce

Also only in the evening fr01n 7p=-9.30pni

-~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

1 shepherd-ne·une . fO)".i 1"ells<l' ' .co .uk

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FOOD

SO

FOOD NEWS Our monthly look at what’s happening on the local culinary scene

IN THE RED A local vineyard has become the first in the UK to produce a red apple juice – just in time for Valentine’s Day. Named Red Love, the juice, produced by Biddenden Vineyards is made using the juice pressed straight from an apple variety of the same name and is a vibrant red colour.

“Red Love juice has an incredible sweet and tangy taste, with a long lasting flavour from the good levels

FINEST FOODS

of tannins,” says Biddenden

Local food and drink suppliers are

Vineyards managing

keeping everything crossed for

director Julian Barnes.

next month’s Taste of Kent

The juice contains no added

awards, after many were

REFURB

colourants, sugar or

confirmed to have reached the

cooking up a storm

chemicals, but does

finals. Taking place in March,

contribute to one of your

the awards recognise Kent’s

five a day.

finest food and drink products.

The recent opening of a new Cook store in Tunbridge Wells has paid off after the company confirmed it had broken all previous records for Christmas sales.

Cook, which sells gourmet frozen foods produced in Kent, opened its new Tunbridge Wells shop on Monson Road in November.

It is located just a few doors down from its previous premises, which were substantially smaller, and has proven to be hugely popular with customers.

But the new store is proving to be a boon for the company, with sales over the Christmas period 88% higher than in 2014.

“It doesn’t require any great insight to see that the food retail landscape continues to change at an extraordinary pace,” states Cook’s annual report. “The rise of discounters, such as Aldi and Lidl; the acute pain being felt by the big supermarkets; and the exponential growth of in online shopping are the big trends.”

Battling it out for the top spot in the Kent wine of the year category are local vineyards Chapel Down, Biddenden and Herbert Hall, while Tenterdenbased Nightingales is hoping to be named Kent juice producer of the year. Once again, Tonbridge farmer’s market is in the running for farmer’s market of the year.

The winners will be announced at the awards on March 3. www.tasteofkentawards.co.uk

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UNDERCOVER EATER Our monthly look at what’s happening on the local culinary scene

maintain is one of my five a day.) To accompany, we order a bottle of Borsao Garnacha red (£16.50 and also one of our five a day, surely?)

PRICE In a world of gastro pubs, the prices here are pretty reasonable – starters begin at £5, mains at £9 and desserts from £4.

Portion sizes are generous too, so you definitely get what you pay for. Plus, unlike a gastro pub, you actually get chips included with your mains rather

Here’s where we send one of our resident foodies into a local eatery and they tell it like it is. This month Undercover Eater visits the Oak Tree in Sevenoaks

than having to pay over the odds for them as an afterthought.

STAFF INTRO

wooden benches, grey and white tiling

Luckily we didn’t venture in at a busy time,

It’s 2.30pm and after planning to have

and dark grey touches to the furnishings.

so we had the full attention of any passing

lunch in a nearby country pub, (the name

In some places this could look clinical,

staff. They were polite, friendly and

of which I won’t mention) with incredibly

but here is gives an old building a

attentive when needed, although after the

rude an unaccommodating staff, we

modern refresh. We select a table to the

kitchen closed finding someone to settle

venture into Sevenoaks instead on the

rear of the restaurant, close to one of the

the bill with was more of a challenge.

lookout for something warm, comforting

two bars inside.

THE ONLY THING IS…

and ideally on par with the rustic country

MENU

For the most part, this meal was pretty

On a cold afternoon, pretty much

decent – it was warming, filling and tasty,

LOCATION

everything on the menu looks appetising.

so I have very few complaints, except…

The Oak Tree is in a prime location – halfway

With limited time to spare (we’ve come in

the lack of guacamole on my burger. What

down Sevenoaks High Street by the

just before the kitchen closes) we do

I envisioned was a heap, and what I got

walkway to Bligh’s Meadow, so plenty of

what comes naturally – peer at other

was barely a smear of green on my bun.

hungry shoppers have the opportunity to

diner’s plates to decipher what they’re

Barely even an eighth of my five a day, let

forego the town’s many coffee shops and

having. The ladies on the table next to us

alone one!

have a leisurely lunch or dinner instead.

are finishing off plates of sausage and

fare we were anticipating.

mash (£11.50) and fish finger sandwiches

135 High Street,

DÉCOR

(£9), so two of our party are instantly

Sevenoaks,

A refurbishment project a couple of

swayed and order these, while I and

Kent,

years ago has seen the pub sporting a

another of the group order the ‘fully

TN13 1UP

fresh, modern look with rustic touches.

loaded’ burger (£11.50) – owing mostly to

01732 742 615

The space is light and bright, with long

the fact it comes with guacamole (which I

www.faucetinn.com/oaktree

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THE TRADING

POST

0

5 Culverden Down, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 9SA {t O1892 45986 7 (i) hello@thetradingpostbar.co. uk G,www.thetradingpostbar.co. uk

11 ~ 120

ii

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FOOD

SO

LET’S RAISE THE TOAST Ed Bolla rediscovers the joys of this simple meal

I

previous collaborations,” explains Pelzel.

f you love toast, but sometimes yearn

together, I didn’t want people to feel, ‘Oh, I can’t get to the artisan bakery at the other

for something more exciting than

It turns out serving up the perfect slice is

beans to put on it for dinner, then

more involved than you might think. Pelzel

side of town to pick up this ridiculously

put a lot of thought into deciding how she

specialised bread’, so I decided to say, ‘Use

The US-born food writer has devoted an

wanted to tackle the toast component of her

whatever you happen to have in the house

entire book to the topic of toast and perfect

recipes, in the end electing to let the reader

as, in all honesty, most breads work

toppings – and as Toast: The Cookbook

decide what bread to use for most of them.

beautifully for toast’.”

Raquel Pelzel is worth listening to.

“It was a huge consideration, actually. The

proves, the possibilities are endless, providing you’re willing to put a little effort

kind of bread you use hugely impacts the

in and get creative.

finished dish. A rye bread or semolina bread? A fruit nut bread or sourdough or

“When I was thinking about writing my own cookbook, I was looking for a topic that

ciabatta? They all have a different texture, a

would allow me to really have fun and

different chew and different flavours once

explore a lot of different flavours and foods

they’re toasted,” she explains.

TOAST: The Cookbook

by Raquel Pelzel is published by Phaidon, priced £14.95.

Available now

“But when I was putting the book

that I know so much about through all my

Tempted to tart up some toast of your own? Here’s one of Pelzel’s recipes to try at home...

ROASTED BEETS ON TOAST WITH LABNEH AND SAFFRON HONEY TO MAKE THE SAFFRON HONEY AND ROASTED BEETS: • 1/2tsp saffron threads • 120ml honey • 1/4tsp, plus a pinch, of coarse salt • 3 medium beetroots, ends trimmed • 2tbsp extra-virgin olive oil • 2tsp finely chopped fresh mint leaves • Freshly ground black pepper FOR THE TOAST: • Four 3/4inch-thick slices of country-style bread • 240ml labneh (Lebanesestyle) yogurt or plain Greek yogurt • 4tbsp toasted and roughly chopped pistachios • Flaky salt

PA PHOTO/EVAN SUNG

(SERVES 4)

MAKE THE SAFFRON HONEY:  Toast the saffron in a small skillet (frying pan) over medium heat, shaking the pan often, until the saffron is fragrant – this should take 30 seconds to one minute.  Transfer the saffron to a small dish and use the back of a teaspoon to crush it into a fine powder. Add the honey to the skillet and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the saffron and a pinch of salt, remove from the heat, and set aside.

one, which should take about one hour.

Remove from the oven and set aside for 20 minutes before unwrapping.  Once the beetroots are cool enough to handle, peel them and chop into bite-size pieces. Toss the beetroot pieces with one tablespoon of the oil, the mint leaves, quarter teaspoon of salt, and the pepper and set aside.

MAKE THE TOAST:

 Preheat the oven to 190C/Gas 5. Set each beetroot in a large square of foil and drizzle one teaspoon of the oil over the top of each.

 Toast the bread to your own taste, be it in a traditional toaster, under a grill, on a barbecue, in a mini oven, pan fried or shallow fried. Let the toasts cool for a few minutes before topping.

 Wrap the beetroots in the foil, place on a rimmed baking sheet, and roast until a paring knife easily slides into the centre of the largest

 To serve, spread each toast with labneh.

Top with beets, pistachios, a generous drizzle of saffron honey, and flaky salt.

ROAST THE BEETROOTS:

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~

Trevor Mottram

W'

@TrevorMottram

Your food deserves the best: So come and browse through our fascinating and unique shop, a mixture of traditional and modern kitchen and dining ware for every occasion.

An experience you'll taste forever.

TREVOR MOTTRAM inspiring you to cook

33-41 THE PANTILES, ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT TN2 5TE, 01892 538915, info@trevormottram.co.uk

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FOOD

SO

THOUGHT FOR FOOD This month, our celebrity chef Rosemary Shrager gives an insight into her Indian experience

understanding anything this was bliss.

I started doing some yoga, this was amazing. I then decided to find a Guru, and had some meditation with him. This prompted me to take a little more care of myself. I then went to an Aveda and had the most amazing treatment – when I came to pay it was £10 for everything.

This was definitely an India I like!

We visited the Rambagh Palace which is a top hotel, probably the most expensive in Jaipur to have tea with the Maharaja and all the family. The tea was the best tea I have ever had! Everything was delicious, with such opulence compared to outside the gates. This I found difficult to understand until I started talking to the family – they do so much charity.

We then took a train to Agra. This was my favourite moment of the whole trip,

We then went to buy a chicken and the man killed it, before putting it into a bucket with the lid on as it still keeps moving – this was not for me!

T

his is now my opportunity to talk

quite frankly it was a nightmare. I took

Wayne and myself met a group of women

about my wonderful trip to India.

over and said I would do the cooking, so

who were on a pilgrimage – it was going

the first day I went to the market with

take them 24 hours to get there. They

ask if I would be interested to go and

Roy, Sylvester, and Wayne. We looked at

were singing and dancing, and we

experiment to see if I could retire to India.

spices and vegetables which we seemed

decided to join in – it was magical.

Firstly, I’m certainly not ready to retire

to have to buy in 1kg amounts. We then

and secondly I have a business to run,

went to buy a chicken and the man killed

an inner peace; the whole atmosphere

but I thought it would be a great

it, before putting it into a bucket with the

was spiritual and I found this very

opportunity to go and find out what it

lid on as it still keeps moving – this was

moving – the willingness and generosity

would be like.

not for me!

to do anything was humbling.

I was approached by the BBC to

This documentary is called The Real

Marigold Hotel. They took eight celebrities out of their comfort zones and put us into a large house in the middle of the pink city, Jaipur. My other companions were Wayne Sleep, Bobby George, Miriam Margolyes, Jan Leeming, Pattie Boule, Sylvester McCoy and Tony Walker – we were all extremely different people!

This was going to be interesting; we had to start running the house ourselves – nobody could make any decisions –

The day was so hot, and it was making me very frustrated not understanding anything.

The most important thing was to learn

As the weeks went on what I found was

I would also like to explore more about the food, it’s wonderful.

We all left leaving a little bit of ourselves

a little of the language to get by. If I was

behind – I couldn’t retire there but would

going to learn anything about India I had

love to go back.

to give up the cooking temporarily.

Our male companions wanted nothing to do with the domestic arrangements, but Miriam and I were having none of this, so we employed staff for the kitchen and domestic – after two days of trying to do everything in the heat, and not

www.rosemaryshrager.com

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Vinehall

ROBERTSBRIDGE, EAST SUSSEX

Open Mornings Friday 5th & Saturday 6th February, 9.30am - 12 noon To register your attendance, or to arrange a separate visit, please contact Karen Cooper on 01580 883090 or admissions@vinehallschool.com

www.vinehallschool.com

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SCHOOLS

SO

EDUCATION NEWS PERFORMING ARTS

PROFESSIONAL PERFORMANCE

Hillview School for Girls, a recognised leader in Performing Arts provision, is launching a new Sixth Form pathway for September 2016.

The Performing Arts Studio has been devised directly in partnership with industry experts to equip students with the skills necessary to thrive in today’s competitive Performing Arts environment.

Students have the opportunity to study BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts or Production Arts for the first time; where modules include Stage Lighting, Costume design, Sound Operations and Set Design. Both courses are broadly equivalent to three A Levels and will take a pioneering approach, where professionals are involved directly in the learning, ensuring that students are industry-ready by the end of the course.

BEE HEALTHY ➧ campaign halt Campaigners have put on hold a legal challenge to a decision by the government to approve a new grammar school annexe in Kent. The group Comprehensive Future were trying to mount a legal challenge against the decision, and have accused the school and the Department for Education of withholding evidence which could prove their case, but in a statement, they say “In the past few months, Comprehensive Future has requested information from the government, Kent County Council and the school in order to test the legal basis of this claim.

Information has often not been forthcoming or has been unaccountably delayed… we believe we are much more likely to win any legal argument when all the information pertaining to the day-to-day running of the school is out in the open.”

Busy Bees nursery in Tunbridge Wells welcomed new children and parents through their doors for their enrolment week last month, and the theme they chose was ‘celebrating nutritious food that children love’ in a bid to help combat childhood obesity.

Throughout the week staff were on hand to discuss all aspects of healthy eating, including helpful hints and tips on quantity, variety, allergies and even the social aspect of children sitting down and enjoying a balanced meal with their peers.

“Nursery food has come a long way in the last 10 years and we’re very proud to be able to champion the healthy and nutritious meals that we offer,” says nursery manager Paula Chapman. “Our enrolment week gives parents and children the chance to pick up some useful tips on the benefits of healthy eating from a young age.”

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The gift with a bit more heart

.

"

Buying the perfect gift for Valentine's Day can be a tough task. Think outside the box and show your loved one you care with a KAE Gift Voucher.

For more information visit: kentadulteducation. co. uk/valentines 16 pop in to your local centre or call 03000 41 22 22

With thousands of courses to choose from KAE has something for everyone.

Bringing learning to life

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22/01/2016 11:11

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First-rate ISI Inspection Report in 2013 • Nursery and Pre Prep rated "outstanding" Top academic results from a broad ability intake • Extensive Sports facilities Boarding from I I • Wide range of scholarships available at I I I 13/ 16 Cathedral Chorister scholarships available for boys aged 8 T: 01634 888590 E: admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk www.kings-rochester.co.uk Extensive daily minibus service including: Blackheath, Gravesend, Kings Hill, Maidstone, Rainham, Sevenoaks

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SO

rt

6 . teaching Specialist support staff for schools

The leading SEN recruitment agency for teaching assistant jobs across Kent We are currently recruiting teaching assistants for several mainstream and SEN schools across Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks.

The Teaching Support team are proud to be education recruitment specialists with knowledge in recruiting for the following educational establishments:

We have both temporary and permanent roles with immediate start dates as well as vacancies due to start over the coming months.

• Pupil Referral Units

• SEN Schools

• Primary & secondary schools

• FE

Colleges

If you are looking for a new role or would simply like to find out more about the service we offer please do get in touch and we will be happy to help.

01622 674209

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www.teaching-support.com

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kent@teaching-support.com

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W H AT S O N

FEBRUARY ENCORE

HERE’S A LIST OF KEY EVENTS TAKING CENTRE STAGE THIS MONTH

4TH » Wizarding Works

Cranbrook School invites you to come and watch their wholeschool production of The Wizard of Oz, a fully staged and orchestrally supported student performance, which takes place on February 4 and 5 in the Queen’s Hall Theatre. The Wizard of Oz is one of the world’s bestknown tales, loved by children and adults alike and immortalised on film, with songs loved by all such as Over the Rainbow and Follow the Yellow Brick Road.

The performance begins at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £5 and are bookable at www.queenshalltheatre.co.uk

4TH » Party Play

Originally a Hampstead Theatre production, then broadcast as a Play for Today, Abigail’s Party is Mike Leigh’s best known work, and perhaps the most celebrated TV play of the 1970s. This month, under the direction of Heather Leslie, the Tenterden Operatic Dramatic Society will be performing their own rendition of the sitcom. From Thursday February 4 to Saturday February 6, head to Tenterden Town Hall to watch the drama unfold.

Performances begin at 7.30pm and tickets cost from £7. www.tods.me.uk 130

5TH » Screen Celebration

Westerham’s Fleapit Cinema Club invites other movie lovers to join them for their first film festival, which takes place from February 5 to 7 at Westerham Hall. With six flicks set to be shown over the event, including Rebels Without a Clue and My Accomplice, there will also be Q&A sessions with film production companies, where the audience can discover more about the creation of the films on the big screen.

For timings, prices and to book, visit www.fleapit.info

12TH » Classical Chords

Lamberhurst Music Festival begins in style on Friday February 12, with critically acclaimed harpsichordist Steven Devine performing Bach’s Goldberg Variations by candlelight in St Mary’s church, Lamberhurst. Steven is well known to The Lamberhurst Music Festival having performed as part of London Baroque in 2015, but also up until recently, as curator of Finchcocks Musical Museum. He will be assisted by the wonderful soprano Kate Semmens.

Doors open at 6.45pm and tickets cost £20.

For more info, and to book, visit www.lamberhurstmusic.co.uk

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13TH » Coco Charms

Romance is in the air this Valentines weekend at The Stag Theatre, Sevenoaks as The Coco Club brings alive the golden age of British dance band music from the 1930s. The art deco style plaza suite provides the perfect atmosphere for the music, dancing, romance and glamour of the evening (black-tie, evening/ cocktail dress is encouraged).

Empire Radio will be playing original recordings of such famous bands as Jack Hylton, Ray Noble, Carroll Gibbons and Roy Fox. The event begins at 7.30pm. Tickets £18, bookable at www. stagsevenoaks.co.uk

13TH » Rocking Rhythm

The Rhythm of Life Community Choir, featuring Damien and Carla, along with special guests including Razorvoice Barbershop Quartet will be performing a concert in aid of Pilgrims Hospices at St Mildred’s Church in Tenterden.

Tickets £10 to include a glass of wine before the concert. A bar will be available during the interval.

Doors open at 7pm. Tickets are available from The Three Bears shop, 16 High Street Tenterden or by calling Elaine Prior on 01233 850 613.

21ST » Parisian Performance

The Merry Opera Houses’ latest production, La Bohème travels the South East this spring, and comes to Tunbridge Wells on Sunday February 21 for two performances. Sparking with merriment yet rich with pathos, Rodolfo and Mimi’s exuberant and despairing love affair is set among the cafés and student lodgings of the Latin Quarter in Paris. See it for a matinee or evening performance at the Wetherspoon Opera House.

Tickets from £18.50. Dining options available.

To book, visit www.merryopera.co.uk

23RD » Daring Dial

Frederick Knott’s 1954 thriller Dial M for Murder is a tense high-wire act play; a steamy plot inside a simple story that will make you think twice about cheating on your spouse! Deception, betrayal, passion and greed prove potent ingredients for an unsettling mystery in this intense and darkly gripping thriller, which takes to the stage at the Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells from Tuesday February 23 to Saturday February 27.

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One of the things that Tunbridge Wells has developed a reputation for over the years is a wonderful music scene

QUESTION TIME

INSIDE VIEW Local acts are on the rise and headed for success this year, according to Paul Dunton

O

ne of the things that Tunbridge Wells

Josie’s beautifully haunting vocals. The

pursuing her solo career and she is

has developed a reputation for over

live sound really is something;

currently in the finishing stages of

the years is a wonderful music scene. Each

atmospheric and dark, sometimes playful

recording her debut album To The Bone.

week you can find a great selection of

and Parisian. I am delighted to say they

Hattie is a unique artist, performing on

bands and soloists regularly playing at

have just finished recording their debut CD

Harp and vocals simultaneously, she

various venues across the town. So which

which is to be released in March at

delivers a spine tingling sound, ethereal

of these acts are destined to make a name

Trinity Theatre.

and atmospheric, she pens beautifully

for themselves in 2016? Whilst the future

Another act on the rise is I am

crafted songs, heartfelt and thought

is never certain, I have selected a shortlist

Aquitaine, born out of the ashes of local

of bands and artists I believe will go on to

singer-songwriter Elle Roberts’ solo project

enjoy considerable success this year.

just over year ago, their brand of swagger

2016 will prove to be extremely positive

Local songstress Phoebe Katis is

provoking.

With a busy year ahead, I am confident

rock, sultry blues and dancey grooves has

one for all concerned, it will certainly be

certainly one act to watch out for. She has

proven popular on the circuit. The band

interesting to monitor their progress.

expanded her solo performance to a full

have played extensively in London and the

live band and has performed at renowned

South of the UK alongside some choice

n Details of Hattie Webb’s To

venues including Ronnie Scott’s, The

festival dates including Aberjazz in Wales

The Bone album project can be found at

Pheasantry, The Bedford at Balham and

and Mudfest supporting Toploader.

www.pledgemusic.com/projects/hattie-

many reputable festivals including

My final artist to look out for in 2016 is

webb-to-the-bone

Glastonbury. More recently she provided

Hattie Webb. Hattie hails from Sevenoaks

the soundtrack for acclaimed British war

and over the past few years has enjoyed a

n The Breretons can also

film Kajaki. With her versatile prowess on

very successful career as one half of The

be found on Facebook at

the piano, Phoebe possesses a beautifully

Webb Sisters, who she shares performing

www.facebook.com/thebreretons

pure tone and expansive range.

and writing duties with her sister Charley.

In recent times, the sibling duo have

n I am Aquitaine will be performing

also expanded her solo piano/guitar live

toured all over the world with Leonard

live at Trinity Theatre on February 20.

sound into a five piece band known as

Cohen and worked with an extensive list

www.trinitytheatre.net

Mistress & The Malts. Josie and The Malts

of luminaries from across the globe

offer a wonderfully avant-garde sound,

including Sting, Richard Thompson, Jamie

n Phoebe Katis will be performing

inspired by Josie’s influences that include

Cullum, Rufus Wainwright, Gotye, Jason

live at Trinity Theatre on March 26

Tori Amos, Kate Bush and PJ Harvey. The

Mraz, James Morrison, Kubb and Katie

sharing the bill with Josie Lee’s Mistress

live band includes trumpet, double bass,

Melua. With Charley now taking a break

& The Malts.

guitar and drums all weaving around

from her musical endeavours, Hattie is

www.trinitytheatre.net

Tunbridge Wells resident Josie Lee has

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LIFE & STYLE

We look at some of the best ways to enhance your home and lifestyle this month

HOTEL DU VIN TUNBRIDGE WELLS The stage is set for your perfect wedding Sublime. One word to express the greatest of all days. With exquisite private rooms and gorgeous suites, a tranquil terrace and vineyard, heavenly dining and your own dedicated events organiser, there can be no more fitting a stage, as you glide elegantly from ceremony to wedding breakfast and beyond. Hotel du Vin Tunbridge Wells is the perfect venue for weddings and civil partnerships. Join us for our wedding fayre on Sunday February 21, from 10.30am until 3pm, with a large range of exhibitors, including photographers, florists, room decorators, spa therapists, DJs and more. Free admission. Complimentary glass of bubbles. Great offers on the day. Free parking.

Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2LY 01892 320 749 www.hotelduvin.com events.tunbridgewells@hotelduvin.com

KNOWLE GRANGE HEALTH SPA Get DNAFit at Knowle Grange Health Spa. Take the guesswork out of how to lose weight, stay fit and keep injury and illness-free. 50% of what we are is genetic, 50% is behaviour. By taking a 100% accurate DNA test, we can unlock a new level of understanding as to which types of exercise and nutrition best suit your genetic profile. Improve performance, strengthen your ability to ward off disease, increase longevity, lose weight and feel good. Reach your goals easier and quicker. £299 including DNA test, genetic report,

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consultation, exercise plan and meal planner. The beauty of DNAFit is that it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. Each plan is tailored to the type of exercise that an individual is suited to, minimising their risk of potential injury and how much time their body needs to recover. Nutritionally, we can test your sensitivity to carbohydrates, salt, saturated fats, whether you may be likely to develop a food intolerance, and whether increased supplementation may be needed in accordance with your DNA to optimise your health. Fitness and nutrition just got personal: it’s all about you!

Wadhurst Road, Frant, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 9EJ 01892 750 761 www.knowlegrange.co.uk enquiries@knowlegrange.co.uk

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MCKEWS CATERING

After a very successful 2015, our diary is now open to take bookings for the 2016 season. Using only local, free-range produce and backed by Southborough Butchers, McKews Catering can tailor-make your event to suit your personal requirements, specialising in hog roasts and lamb spit roasts. Catering from 50 to 2,000 people, we can guarantee a personal service. We are available for private parties, birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, fetes and fairs! Alongside our hog roasts, we can offer a large selection of barbecue meats, marinated in a variety of mouth-watering flavours. For more information, call our events team on: 07791 175 333 or 07972 091 524.

60a London Road, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 0PR 01892 529 757 www.southboroughbutchers.com butcher@southboroughbutchers.co.uk

01892 529757 southboroughbutchers.com

HEALS FARM SHOP

Recently opened Heals local shop and café is situated 10 miles south of Tunbridge Wells on the main A267. This beautiful building provides a relaxing destination for a full English breakfast in the café, or a light lunch with a friend while the children play in the crèche area. With Leppard’s butchers of Mayfield providing a full display of locally sourced meat and cheeses, plus fresh fish on a Thursday, Friday and Saturday, along with fresh vegetables and fruit, local wines and ales, home produced ready meals, groceries and gifts, Heals has everything for your midweek shop, with the benefit of local provenance.

High Street, Mayfield, East Sussex TN20 6AB 01435 873 984 www.healsfarmshop.co.uk healslocalshop@gmail.com

CATCHPOLE & RYE Catchpole & Rye Limited is pleased to announce

architects alike. With a longstanding reputation for

the opening of its new showroom in Royal

artisanal products and an exceptional personal

Tunbridge Wells in spring 2016. Situated in the

service, Catchpole and Rye Limited expects its

heart of the design quarter on Calverley Road, it

third and largest showroom to date to provide a

represents another milestone in the company’s

valuable service to its existing clients, as well as

continued expansion. Since the launch of the

the opportunity for new private customers to view

Chelsea showroom in 2013, demand for their

its offerings first-hand. The showroom, set over

bespoke branded products has accelerated

two floors, will offer a full design service,

greatly, necessitating the doubling of its

alongside its full range of products and finishes.

manufacturing base in Ashford, Kent. The ability

Watch this space for more news about the

to manufacture items to customers’ specific

Tunbridge Wells showroom and its opening date

requirements is unique within the bathroom

via our website, social media and news pages.

industry, and has proven a hit with designers and

www.catchpoleandrye.com

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T H E AT R E

ENCORE

BEST IN SHOW This season’s top theatre picks

T

here’s nothing like a new theatre season to put a little spring in your step. Here’s a selection of shows at the Assembly Hall Theatre in the

coming months that you are sure to love.

In a season rich with live music, dance, theatre, comedy and much more, there’s plenty to be excited about.

Annie, the world’s favourite family musical, comes to Tunbridge Wells for one week only, starring Birds of a Feather’s Lesley Joseph as the tyrannical Miss Hannigan.

Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery and torment at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Determined to find her real parents, her luck changes when she is chosen to spend Christmas at the residence of famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. Spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search. With its award-winning book and score, this stunning new production includes the unforgettable songs Hard Knock Life, Easy Street, I Don’t Need Anything But You and Tomorrow.

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Don’t miss Annie – you can bet your

Dogs!’ and the rhythm never stops. On an

bottom dollar that you’ll love it! (Tue 1 to

industrial set composed of a two tier

Sat March 5)

scaffolding rig and six drumming stations,

Tortoise and the Hare is the latest in Northern Ballet’s award-winning series of Short Ballets for Small People which already includes the hugely popular Ugly Duckling, Three Little Pigs and Elves and the Shoemaker. The ballet has been created to introduce families and young children to live dance, music and theatre.

Recommended for children aged 4 to 7 years, this adorable and heart-warming production retells the much-loved Aesop’s fable about a tortoise who, tired of being teased for his slowness, challenges a speedy hare to a race. (Fri March 25) If you liked Jersey Boys, you’ll love Let’s Hang On. A group of 10 seasoned entertainers pay tribute to Frankie Valli and The Four Season classics while also paying tribute to the Broadway show, The Jersey Boys. Let’s Hang On captures the trademark vocal virtuosity, tight harmonies, and crisp choreography that made The Four Seasons one of the greatest vocal groups of all time.

This full blown stage show includes all the great Four Seasons’ mega hits like Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Walk Like A Man, and many more mega hits of the 60s; all presented in a high-energy and polished production. (Sun 27 March) Tap Factory is where ‘Stomp meets Tap

one – with a regular drum kit and congas and the other with two oil drums apiece, the tappers, who are also the drummers, let rip. A tremendously visual and highly exciting show, the world’s best tap dancers and international musicians blend urban, tap dance, hip hop, percussion, comedy, and cirque acrobatics. (Wed April 6).

Pop darling of the 60s who relit her fire in the 90s with Take That, Lulu is still the only British female solo artist to appear in the charts for five straight decades – and still be as hip and full of energy today as when she first hit the charts as a 15 year-old in 1964.

The Grammy-nominated singer will be performing hits from her 50 year career, such as To Sir With Love, The Man Who

Sold The World and of course Shout. As well as performing songs from some of her musical heroes, such as soul legends, Ray Charles and Otis Redding, she will also be taking us on a musical journey recalling personal anecdotes, song writing experiences, and other entertaining stories (Mon April 18).

Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells 01892 530 613 www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

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Baldwins Travel Group is your local, award winning, independent Travel Agent Contact our travel experts for more details or a brochure on any holiday, tour or cruise; Baldwins Baldwins Baldwins Baldwins

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L U X U R Y T R AV E L

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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the most discerning traveller.

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L U X U R Y T R AV E L

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Warriors – a true highlight.

Chengdu is the relaxed and cheery

landscapes and meet the local indigenous

To complete the three major cities;

capital of Sichuan province. It is best

cultures. Kunming, China’s most

Shanghai a vision in neon, steel and

known for being home to everyone’s

laidback city is its gateway.

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favourite bear – take a visit to the Panda

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This car summed up in a single word:

PA PHOTO / HANDOUT LEXUS

AGREEABLE

SMOOTH CRUISING Ed Wiseman test drives the luxurious new Lexus RX this as a workhorse.

The new Lexus RX is a new flagship for

(blacked-out rear pillars) distinguish it

the brand. It’s a hybrid SUV (though it

from other SUVs. It doesn’t have the

can be bought with a plain petrol engine)

kudos of Porsche or the British-ness of

compartment are numerous. The

with an emphasis on comfort and easy

Land Rover, but it competes with them

cupholder’s capacity is adjustable and

driving, something that Lexus is very

in the luxury stakes.

can be altered to securely hold any

Oddment boxes in the passenger

reasonable size of beverage. In a cavity

good at. This has historically been a key model for the company – ever since the

SPACE AND PRACTICALITY

behind the switchgear is a wireless

first generation reached British roads in

It’s an SUV and generally performs

phone charging area.

1998, it’s been an upmarket accessory

adequately in terms of space. The front

for the well-to-do.

is indulgently large, with acres of leather

BEHIND THE WHEEL

in medium-to-upper trim levels. In the

A head-up display, the largest of its type

an extra 5% power and torque and

back is a different story though –

currently on the market, beams

improving its interior and exterior

headroom is limited in the rear seats.

important information (such as speed

design. The result is a highly likeable –

Lexus has added 24.4mm of legroom in

and cruise control settings) onto the

albeit expensive – premium SUV.

the front and 22mm in the back, but the

windscreen within the driver’s field of

low roofline compromises second-row

vision. The instrument binnacle shows a

passenger comfort.

wide range of economy-related statistics,

Lexus has overhauled the NX, giving it

LOOKS AND IMAGE It’s striking, to say the least. Angular,

The boot is 453 litres with the seats up,

meaning that those wanting to get the

almost jaunty lines are now part of the

extending to 924 with the boot folded.

most mileage (and lowest emissions)

Lexus design language – a stark contrast

These van-like proportions give an added

from their car can do so easily. This isn’t

to the brand’s fuddy-duddy luxo-barge

element of practicality in what is

a driver’s car – the emphasis is on

image of yesteryear. Interesting design

essentially a luxury vehicle – its price

smooth, comfortable progress.

features such as the ‘floating roof’

tag means that few people will be using

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That said, the driving experience of the

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FACTS

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LEXUS RX 450H HYBRID, FROM £46,995 Engine: 3.5-litre V6 petrol with electric motor Transmission: E-CVT with variable all-wheel-drive Performance: 0-62mph in 7.7 seconds, top speed 124mph Economy: 54.3mpg combined (on smaller 18-inch wheels) Emissions: 120g/km CO2 (on smaller 18-inch wheels)

RX has been sharpened up. Steering

reluctance to make progress and opt to

at £57,995). The Mark Levinson sound

response is good, with pleasing weight

use the ‘manual’ mode during

system is a great example of this – its

in the corners and 30 different damping

acceleration. Different driving modes

15 speakers produce some of the best

force levels – a versatile suspension

can be used to slightly tweak the

sound available in any car.

system. Noise and vibration levels have

powertrain and power steering. ‘Eco’

been reduced using insulation, but the

mode will have an impact on the climate

enjoyable to drive and be a passenger

engine note (of the large V6 engine,

control. The 200t’s party piece is that

in. And Lexus is renowned for its

producing 259bhp and 335Nm of

the engine can switch between cycles

reliability and its owner experience. But

torque) is augmented, allowing an

– Atkinson for the most part, seamlessly

the RX is a luxury purchase with a

impression of performance to reach the

switching to Otto when added power is

luxury price tag – buyers seeking a

cabin. This slightly synthetic

needed. Beware though – driving this

good-value hybrid SUV would be better

soundtrack is not to everyone’s taste,

normally will result in fuel efficiency of

off with a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.

but it could appeal to those making the

around 20mpg.

The RX is an immensely likeable car;

WHO WOULD BUY ONE

transition to hybrid for the first time.

VALUE FOR MONEY

Buyers of the Lexus RX will be image-

gearbox. The engine responds to the

The starting price for the RX is £39,995.

conscious but will take comfort in the

throttle in order to supply the correct

That gives you an entry-level 200t, the

brand’s reputation for reliability. It makes

amount of torque, but if you think you

cheapest and least efficient engine. For

a good family car – provided rear

know better (you don’t) you can change

the entry-level hybrid, the starting price

headroom isn’t a prerequisite – and a

up or change down. All this really does

is £46,995, and the Luxury – the trim

delightful motorway cruiser. It doesn’t have

is alter the engine note at the cost of

level most people will choose – is

the off-road capability of Land Rover’s

performance, but some people will be

£49,995. It’s easy to recommend this as

many options, nor the efficiency of a

reassured by this gimmick (even if it

a £50k car, but there are so many

plug-in hybrid. This is a road-going SUV.

does slow you down).

compelling models to choose from in

The same goes for the ‘flappy paddle’

In the 200t, the 2.0-litre turbo petrol version, the powertrain is less powerful but more conventional. The six-speed

this price bracket that UK buyers will

If this car was a... dessert it would be

generally be lured elsewhere.

profiteroles. Crisp on the outside, soft

The extras are numerous and

on the inside, but a bit rich for most to

auto is easy to use, though many

attractive, with many as standard in the

enjoy on a daily basis. Also, some

drivers will be frustrated by its

highest trim (the Premier, which starts

people are allergic.

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timbered.

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ADVERTORIAL

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REVIVING PAST GLORIES Established in 1986 by Anthony Hansford, H-Engineering in Tunbridge Wells has continued to provide a first-class maintenance service for standard production cars, while developing a growing reputation in the field of classic and vintage car restoration. We find out how they continue to put the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;classâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; back in classic The experienced team at H-Engineering

spectacle of once famous models,

in Tunbridge Wells specialises in all

reproducing the performances of a

aspects of classic car restoration. We

bygone age. Our specialists have

have the knowledge, the facilities and

undertaken classic racing car restoration

the equipment to restore all classic,

projects on vintage Jaguar, Porsche, Alfa

vintage and collectible models, using

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Formula One cars.

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our business for classic and vintage car

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restoration, because we provide a

personal and intimate level.

complete service experience that caters

This ensures that customers in the

for vehicle bodywork, interiors and

surrounding county of Kent can use our

engines. H-Engineering is particularly

classic and vintage car restoration

adept at sourcing obsolete parts,

services, knowing that we are equally as

ensuring that our restoration work

passionate about their vehicles as they

always leaves your prized vehicle in as

are themselves.

close to an original condition as possible.

What used to be the exclusive domain

Our premises are located at

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Kingstanding Way Business Park in

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Tunbridge Wells, and we invite all new

the charm, appeal and desirability of

and seasoned enthusiasts to visit us

classics cars. Our business fills a gap in

today to find out more about our classic

the marketplace that very few companies

car restoration services. We will use our

in the Tunbridge Wells area can match,

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because our services extend beyond the

to restore your classic, vintage or

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include classic racing car restoration.

past glories.

At H-Engineering, we have already worked on many historic racing cars and

H-Engineering

returned them to working condition.

Unit 12.2, Kingstanding Way,

Many of these vehicles are now

Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3UP

performing again in front of enthusiastic

01892 549 042

spectators, who are enjoying the

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PAGES OF HOMES, INTERIORS & GARDENS

QUEBEC HOUSE

What goes in to making this Westerham property special PAGE 162

BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL Bold picks to bring a splash of colour into your home PAGE 157

COOL CUISINE Top tips for a stylish kitchen PAGE 152

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AWAKEN YOUR SENSES Imagine waking up next to 200 acres of woodland, then stepping out into a new day, feeling the gentle breeze, big skies above.

Welcome to Knights Wood.

Knights Wood offers a variety of exceptional new homes in a peaceful woodland setting in Royal Tunbridge Wells.

Our marketing suite is open daily from 10am to 5pm, so come and visit us to experience what life could be like. Alternatively, call us on 01892 800580.

Three and four bedroom homes available now with prices from ÂŁ480,000.

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KNIGHTS WOOD ROYAL

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TUNBRIDGE

WELLS

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INTERIORS

EAT YOUR HEART OUT Gabrielle Fagan takes a look at what’s going to be cooking when it comes to kitchen trends…

T

here’s no doubt kitchens are the centre of our homes, but although they’re the area we choose to spend the most time, either eating or socialising, it seems all too few of us have our ‘dream’ space.

Around 65% of Brits feel their current kitchen is far from ideal – with its inadequacies most exposed during the pressure-cooker stress of Christmas – and

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around a quarter struggle with a cramped or awkward shaped room, while 25% bemoan a lack of work surfaces, according recent research by Wickes.

Aside from the benefits of enjoying this space more - and potentially being able to cook up a storm – it could be worth reconsidering a refit on financial grounds alone, as it’s the most popular way to add value to a property, estimated

by experts at around 15%.

“It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when trying to choose a kitchen,” says Daniele Brutto of Hub Kitchens, specialists in Italian-inspired design. “There are so many materials, colours and finishes in the market at the moment, but what’s important is focusing on what will work for you and your space. Pick something you like, which could be a particular

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INTERIORS

wall colour, a floor tile or work surface texture and work outwards from there.

Keeping one element at the heart of your design will make the whole process much more straightforward.”

Take comfort from the fact that size isn’t everything, according to Brutto, who says small spaces can still look stylish if a scheme is kept simple and every inch of space is exploited.

“Custom-made cabinets can conceal day-to-day appliances when they’re not in use, while it’s also possible to maximise preparation areas by using worktops which cover sinks or extend.

“It’s all about marrying imagination with innovative design and creating a calm, relaxed environment, where it’s a pleasure to work and play.”

See what’s on the menu for kitchens this year, and choose your own individual style recipe...

MODERN MENU Shades of grey or cool blue will give a kitchen an ultra-modern look and can be enlivened with either a colourful splashback, or add a warming glow with copper metallic accessories.

“The general trend still continues for the kitchen to literally be the heart of the home, and grey is still a massive colour trend, whether it’s used for unit fronts or even grey grouting in between tiles,” says Wickes design consultant, Simon Burton.

“A kitchen has to be a practical, userfriendly space, but is also regarded as an area to socialise, so open-plan designs, incorporating a kitchen and dining/ living area, are still a top choice. One great way to enhance a social feel is to have built-in music speakers.”

WALK IN THE WOODS Natural materials rule in decor, and showcasing rich wood grain and stunning stone worktops – marble through to slate – brings personality and ultimate luxury to a room.

“The real trend at the moment for finishes is subtle, textural differences to give real depth, which will break up

the monotone nature of surfaces. We’re going to see more use of natural exotic stones such as marble, slate and granite,” says Brutto.

“We’ll see an even greater emphasis on the use of natural timbers, and there are some amazing timber veneers coming onto the market, which give cabinetry a rich, warm feel. The trend for mixing and matching veneers with harsher surrounds, such as concrete, steel and iron, will also feature strongly this year.”

A PERFECT BALANCE Mixing modern and old-style materials, and using accents of black and charcoal to add definition, achieves a chic look which suits a country ‘kick off your wellies’ setting, just as much as an edgy industrial-style urban loft.

“We believe a successful kitchen should feel like an organic part of a home, not a bolt-on or trend-conscious space.

Instead, it should be a zone in harmony with our style and taste, and designed to totally suit our lifestyle. Contrast in colour or texture is particularly effective, for instance, rough brick set against a plaster wall, or a tiled effect below an open raftered ceiling,” says John SimsHilditch, managing director at Neptune.

“This timeless look has enduring appeal, never goes out of fashion and looks better as it ages. Breaking up a run of wall cupboards with open shelving or glass-fronted upper cabinets is a useful design option, creating fluidity and an impression of more space.”

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~ INVICTA KITCHENS Call us now and revitalise your kitchen www.invictakitchens.uk

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Whatever the scale of your project step in to our showroom for advice and browse through one of the largest collections of sample books in the south east.

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MANUEL CANOVAS 6 Castle Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, KentTN11XJ. Tel: 01892 532003 Email: sarah@skinnersoftunbridgewells.co.uk www.skinnersoftunbridgewells.co.uk 154

Sl ml

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BE OSOUND M OM ENT

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M\ITY

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DAR LIGHTING

Souk five light multicolour chandelier, £115 www.darlighting.co.uk

KELLY HOPPEN

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Large pink cube, £276 www.kellyhoppen.com

Conran wall art, £85 www.marksandspencer.com

ALL THINGS BRIGHT Dreary days be gone with these light and bright additions

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Retro orange glass table lamp, £14 www.next.co.uk

AMARA

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HOMESENSE

Red and white chest of drawers, £249.99 www.homesense.com

OLIVER BONAS

Ernest book shelves, £765 www.oliverbonas.com

CATH KIDSTON

Highgate rose teapot, £28 www.cathkidston.com

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ADVERTORIAL

SEEKING INTERIOR INSPIRATION? Respire Living is the destination for inspirational interiors and home furnishings in Old Town Hastings. Whether you’ve just moved home, are upgrading your space, or are looking for a striking statement piece or that perfect finishing touch, they can provide stylish inspiration for your home

I

t’s the New Year and it’s time to start thinking of your living space. Just like your January body detox, it’s a great time to reflect on your home and the projects that you have been planning – let’s call it a ‘home detox’. With the dark, cold weather, it’s the perfect time to get stuck in and ring the changes, however small, so that your home is ready to enjoy once spring arrives.

With just a few minor changes, you can make a big impact to the look and ambiance of the room, whether it’s just a case of clearing the clutter; updating your living room with a new lamp, statement clock and mirror above the fireplace; or a colour refresh with a new lick of paint, vibrant rug, cushions and throws.

If you’re one of the lucky ones whose builder has just left you with a beautiful, freshly painted space, it’s now the exciting time to fill it with stylish pieces of furniture to

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complement your lifestyle. So, what are you waiting for?

At Respire Living in Old Town Hastings, the spacious showroom over two floors is a great place to start your search, within a relaxed and friendly environment. Choose from an eclectic range of French vintage and bespoke Swedish designer furniture, John Sankey British-made sofas and armchairs, and a full complement of mirrors, lighting, clocks, rugs and home accessories.

So, if you’re still deliberating over which colour, style or theme will work best, then drop in and be inspired.

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• Angel Centre gym and sports centre is opposite the building

TONBRIDG Angel Lane TN9 IS

• Numerous supermarkets within a level walk - Sainsbury, Waitrose, Lidl • Excellent Cafes and Restaurants on the High Street including - Finch House, Caffe Nero, Starbucks, Pizza Express, Graze Gastro pub

I V E R

• The historic castle and riverside walks only a moment away from the apartments.

B A N Images used are artists impression of the completed development

• Secure undercroft parking with most apartments

K

• Attractive riverside garden • 125 year leases and a 10 year building warranty • Very central Town Centre location, 1 G,:;~[,:,:P' minute walk from Tonbridge High

CALLING ALL INVESTORS

• Tonbridge Railway Station is 3 minutes walk with journey times to London of around 40 minutes • Every possible amenity is right on your door step

www.riverbanktonbridge.co.uk

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• Attractive investment returns with estimated rental levels of £850 per month and excellent future capital growth prospects • Buy now & beat the stamp duty hike before April 2016

25/01/2016 09:52

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NT/ANDREW BUTLER

KEEPING QUEBEC Kirsty Haslam, duty house and gardens manager at Quebec House in Westerham gives us an insight into their interior preparationsâ&#x20AC;Ś

How have you been preparing for the new season?

Quebec House is closed throughout January and February which allows us to focus on the conservation of the property and make sure everything is in good condition to re-open our doors for the new season. Although we clean and monitor every object in our collection throughout the open season, January and February allows us to do a really detailed condition check and clean of each of the objects in the house.

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What tasks will you be undertaking around the house this February?

With the help of my wonderful team of conservation volunteers we will be focusing on working our way steadily, room by room through the collection. Each room presents its own challenges and depending on the day we might be doing anything from cleaning and checking some of our book collection to polishing our wooden floors. No day will be the sameâ&#x20AC;Ś

What is your approach to the property, in terms of both preserving its heritage and moving forward?

Quebec House is most famous for being the childhood home of General James Wolfe, the victor at the Battle of Quebec in 1759. It is very much a hands-on house, with a large handling collection, ranging from a sugar loaf to a chess set to a flintlock musket and we like to encourage our visitors to have a go with all of these objects. However, we do have a number of delicate pieces

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in the house and for us, moving forward we have to look to maintain the balance between caring for the collection while encouraging interaction by the public.

This can be challenging to manage but is definitely rewarding – nothing beats having a go at quill-pen writing or trying some of Mrs Wolfe’s freshly baked Rich cake to bring eighteenth century life alive.

Which original features still remain in the property?

Quebec House has been added to and developed over the years with the oldest bits of the property dating to the midTudor period. A number of features of the original Tudor building remain including the inglenook fireplace in the kitchen and the window in the parlour but much of the interiors, including the beautiful oak staircase and panelling date to the 17th century.

beautiful example of this Flemish work created by pulling wool between two rows of stitching to create beautiful raised patterns. This dressing gown was used as the inspiration for a bedcover for our four-poster bed in the bedroom.

This project was a painstaking labour of love by a combination of some of our volunteers and the re-enactment group The Mannered Mob and was completed in December. It will be displayed in all its glory in the bedroom at the start of the season.

What is the biggest challenge at Quebec?

The biggest challenge at Quebec is probably that we are a relatively small property. While we definitely make the most of the space that we have I occasionally have to rein in some of my more ambitious ideas because we just don’t have the room for them!

What’s your favourite area or element of the property?

A very difficult question which would probably change each week! I think my current favourite element of the property is our range of Flemish or Marseille textiles. One of our most striking objects on display is General Wolfe’s dressing gown which is a

NT/CHRIS LACEY

Is there anything in particular that visitors should look out for this season?

Visitors might particularly like to drop by Quebec House on Sunday afternoons when our team of volunteer cooks recreate a number of Mrs Wolfe’s recipes from her recipe book, currently

on display in the Study. Depending on the day our visitors might be offered Georgian Cheesecakes, containing flavoured cream rather than cheese, Jumbals, cakes flavoured with rose water or Tunbridge Seed cakes, savoury biscuits dotted with caraway seeds, to name but a few. I will admit to checking of the kitchen more than usual on a Sunday afternoon just in case there are any tasters that our visitors haven’t claimed!

What is the most commonly asked question from visitors?

Our most common questions usually relate to the life and career of James Wolfe. Wolfe was an incredibly wellknown historical figure when Quebec House was given to the National Trust in 1918. However, the 18th century is now probably not our most wellknown period of history and many of our visitors don’t know that much about Wolfe before they arrive. While obviously delighted to answer questions about troop movements at the Battle of Quebec or Georgian ladies shoes I particularly like to try to use these questions to bring James and his family alive for our visitors. I have recently, for example, found James’s records of his pets which included dogs with the slightly unusual names of Flurry and Little Romp!

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CHARACTERFUL CHARM Impressive country house with rural views in Wadhurst SNAPE HOUSE IS a striking and individual country home, sympathetically

refurbished to modern standards with contemporary fixtures and fittings and offering generously proportioned and characterful accommodation arranged over three floors.The house was built by David Barham in 1617, a wealthy ironmaster, whose life is commemorated by an iron tomb slab in Wadhurst church. Throughout the property Barhamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal signature coat of arms can be seen in various guises, including stone bears adorning the garden and decorative glazed inserts to many of the windows. Inside, the property comprises a spacious downstairs area, four bedrooms to the first floor, including a master bedroom with en suite and an attic bedroom on the second floor. The impressive exterior land encompasses landscaped gardens, an orchard, a paddock and a heated swimming pool and Jacuzzi.

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PROPERTY: Snape House LOCATION: Snape Lane, Wadhurst GUIDE PRICE: £1,850,000 BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 3 BEST BITS: The drawing room with parquet flooring, magnificent canopied fireplace with carved wood columns and big doors out to a conservatory for enjoyment of the gardens. n n n n n n n n n n n

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Reception hall Three reception rooms Conservatory Kitchen/breakfast room Utility room Landing with minstrel’s gallery Master bedroom with en suite bath/shower room Family bath/shower room Cellar Garage Landscaped gardens, kitchen garden, orchard and paddock Heated swimming pool Jacuzzi

For full details contact: Savills Tunbridge Wells • 01892 507 000 • www.savills.co.uk

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Make the right move in

Contact the t am

BarnesKingsnorth

Call us for your FREE VALUATION

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PROPERTY: Upper Grosvenor Road LOCATION: 89 Upper Grosvenor Road, Tunbridge Wells GUIDE PRICE: £850,000 BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 2 BEST BITS: The light and bright sitting room,

PERIOD LIVING Edwardian detached home in prime location in Tunbridge Wells BELIEVED TO HAVE been built round 1908, this stunning home offers versatile accommodation to include two reception rooms, both with attractive period fireplaces, a large kitchen/dining room with fitted appliances and bi-folding doors opening onto the landscaped rear garden and deck.

At first floor there are three double bedrooms with the master bedroom having an adjacent luxury bathroom. In addition to this there is a well-appointed family bathroom.

At second floor level there are two further double bedrooms.

Externally the rear garden has been landscaped to include a substantial decked area, ideal for entertaining. The front has recently been bricked paved to provide off road parking for several vehicles.

with features including a period fireplace with cast iron open grate, tiled cheeks and hearth, high ceiling with decorative cornice and exposed floorboards. n Downstairs cloakroom n Sitting room n Family room n Fitted kitchen/dining room n Master bedroom with adjacent luxury bathroom n Four further bedrooms n Family bathroom n Period features throughout n Enclosed landscape garden n Off road parking for several vehicles

For full details contact: Wood & Pilcher • 01892 511 211 • www.woodandpilcher.co.uk

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High Street, Lamberhurst

Waiting Buyers ....

£300,000- £325,000

- =---·&L

We have waiting applicants looking for property in the Village area and the St Johns, St James and St Peters area of Tunbridge Wells. Please call us to book a free market appraisal and we will discuss the various marketing packages we have available and our

Home Finder Service.

Call 01892 547966 today.

A mid terraced cottage with far reaching views of farmland to the rear, situated in this thriving village. Accommodation over 3 floors includes 2 bedrooms and study/nursery, downstairs w.c, lounge, kitchen/diner and garden.

Prospect Road, Tunbridge Wells

Newlands Road, Tunbridge Wells

A converted one bedroom ground floor apartment set within a character building and benefiting from having its own private garden. Set on the borders of the St Peters area and 0.6 mile radius to the main line station.

A three bedroom detached house situated in this popular tree lined road in the St Johns area of Tunbridge Wells. Benefiting from having off road parking and a garage plus a lawned rear garden for the children to play.

Pennine Walk, Tunbridge Wells

Milton Drive, Tunbridge Wells

£400,000-£425,000

A detached three bedroom family home in the favoured St James area of Tunbridge Wells. Entrance lobby, open plan lounge/dining room, kitchen, w.c, and upstairs bathroom. Outside garage en bloc and gardens.

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£649,950

£500,000-£525,000

~ ~~~imru~m An executive style 4 bedroom detached home with plenty of space for the growing family. Accommodation includes entrance hall, cloakroom, lounge, kitchen/breakfast room, conservatory and family bathroom. Gardens.

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PROPERTY: Station House LOCATION: Hampstead Lane, Yalding GUIDE PRICE: £499,995 BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 2 (1 en suite) BEST BITS:

CHARMING FARMHOUSE A Grade II listed detached farmhouse in Yalding STATION HOUSE IS a charming and immaculately presented Grade II listed detached farmhouse with four double bedrooms and three receptions. The property has a wealth of character with a large inglenook, exposed timbers and beams throughout and a vaulted ceiling in one of the bedrooms. The grounds are a real feature of the property with a southerly rear aspect and include a driveway with a detached double garage with plenty of work space to the rear.

Set over three floors, the ground floor comprises a kitchen/breakfast room, dining room, sitting room, study and family bathroom, while situated on the first floor are three double bedrooms all with plenty of built in storage space and one with an en suite shower room. Stairs lead to the second floor attic room, which is in two sections with a walk through study/sitting room into a bedroom at the rear end.

The attic room, which offers a fantastic versatile space to suit individual needs with plenty of built in storage space. n Four double bedrooms n Master en suite shower room n Driveway n Detached double garage n Sitting room n Kitchen/breakfast room n Dining room n Study n Family bathroom n Large rear garden

For full details contact: Lambert & Foster • 01892 832 325 • www.lambertandfoster.co.uk

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(e)nTheMarket om

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Cran brook 01580 712 234

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Mayfield 01435 873 999

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Please note that for tenants only, an admin fee of £250 per property will apply.

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22/01/2016 11:18

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PROPERTY: Little Walkhurst LOCATION: Benenden, Kent GUIDE PRICE: £1,100,000 BEDROOMS: 5 BATHROOMS: 2 (plus 1 cloakroom) BEST BITS: A particularly intriguing feature is the inscription on a ground floor window by Thomas Munn dated 1793. It is thought he may

LOVELY LAND Quietly situated delightful Grade II Listed country house in Benenden LITTLE WALKHURST IS a delightful Grade II listed country house, dating from the late 18th century and latterly extended to provide bright and airy accommodation of much charm and character. The house provides welcoming and well balanced living space, ideal for family life with two spacious reception rooms plus a study and five bedrooms plus two bathrooms above. On the ground floor, there are several sets of French doors giving direct access to the gardens, ideal for entertaining in the summer months and magnificent fireplaces creating inviting focal points for the winter.

Much of the accommodation is double or triple aspect taking advantage of good levels of natural light and the property has an all-around pastoral outlook over its own land and beyond. Comprising about nine acres, the outside space and outbuildings offer further aspects to this property. The heated swimming pool, paddocks and triple garage are all excellent features, set within the sweeping gardens.

have been a relative of the infamous smuggler, Thomas Munn who operated in the area in the mid 1700s. n Triple aspect drawing room n Dining room n Kitchen/breakfast room n Utility/cloakroom with butler sink n Five bedrooms n Family bathroom n Landscaped gardens with pond n Period outbuilding n Three bay garage building n Heated swimming pool n Paddocks n Approximately 9 acres in all

For full details contact: Jackson Stops & Staff • 01580 720 000 • www.jackson-stops.co.uk

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COUNTRY CHARISMA An exceptional and superbly presented detached home in Five Ashes THIS PROPERTY IS a beautifully renovated, extended and refurbished detached 1950s house situated just to the south of Mayfield. Presented in superb order throughout and offered with no onward chain, the house offers versatile accommodation with four bedrooms and four bathrooms incorporating a studio/office/bedroom with en suite shower room. The principal bedroom is superb with a vaulted ceiling, open dressing room and en suite bathroom. The guest bedroom

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also has an en suite whilst the third bedroom is very well served by an excellent family bathroom. The studio above the garage is accessed via a separate staircase and also has a vaulted ceiling and en suite shower room as well as handy storage built into the eaves. A large driveway to the front provides parking and turning for several cars as well as access to the double garage.

To the rear, there is a spacious decked terrace and gardens providing a view towards the neighbouring fields.

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

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PROPERTY: The Gables LOCATION: Stonehurst Lane, Five Ashes GUIDE PRICE: £799,950 BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 3 (plus 1 en suite shower room) BEST BITS: The exceptional ‘Neptune’ kitchen with tall bay window to the front, black granite work surfaces and integrated appliances.

Drawing room Dining area Sitting area Kitchen Study Utility room Principal bedroom with en suite bathroom Two further bedrooms (1 en suite) within house Family bathroom Detached garage with bedroom/studio/office above n Mature garden with views n n n n n n n n n n

For full details contact: Hamptons • 01892 640 316 • www.hamptons.co.uk

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lL[J WOOD & PILCHER

Trustworthy, Loving Agent with GSOH Seeks Similar Minded Clients for Long Term Relationship TUNBRIDGE WELLS

SOUTH BOROUGH

HEATH FIELD

TONBRIDGE

CROWBOROUGH

23 High Street, Tunbridge Wells Kent TN11UT Sales 01892 511211 tunbridgewells@woodandpilcher.co.uk Letting & Management 01892 528888 lettings@woodandpilcher.com

124 London Road, Southborough KentTN4 OPL Sales: 01892 511311 Lettings: 01892 528888 southborough@woodandpilcher.co.uk

27 High Street, Heathfield East Sussex, TN21 8JR Sales: 01435 862211 Lettings: 01435 868899 heathfield@woodandpilcher.co.uk

38 High Street, Tonbridge KentTN91EJ Sales: 01732 351135 Lettings: 01732 351135 tonbridge@woodandpilcher.co.uk

The Cross, Crowborough East Sussex TN6 1AL Sales 01892 665666 crowbcrough@woodandpilcher.co.uk Letting & Management 01892 664666 lettings@woocandpilcher.com

Associated Park Lane London Office

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

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PROPERTY: Paygate LOCATION: Horsmonden, Kent GUIDE PRICE: £1,350,000 BEDROOMS: 6 BATHROOMS: 4 BEST BITS: The stunning kitchen/breakfast

CONTEMPORARY CREATION Newly constructed family home in Horsmonden FINISHED TO A very high standard, this newly created property offers modern family accommodation on the outskirts of the picturesque village of Horsmonden.

Set over three floors, internally, the rooms are beautifully presented and finished to a very high standard. Features include an impressive kitchen/ breakfast room with high specification fixtures and fittings including AEG double oven and dishwasher, Siemens glass gas hob and a Caple wine cooler. There are six bedrooms in total, including a master bedroom with en suite bathroom.

Outside, the house is approached via an electrically operated gated entrance, with telephone entry system, over a gravel bonded driveway leading to a parking area and impressive detached triple garage providing three separate insulated garages with power and light. The gardens and grounds surround the property and are laid to lawn with outside lighting and a selection of plants and shrubs. To the rear there is a paved terrace and decked area with hot tub. The gardens lead on to a paddock which could be used for equestrian purposes.

room with island, perfect for family mealtimes or entertaining. n Cloakroom n Utility room n Kitchen/breakfast room n Drawing room n Sitting room n Dining room n Master bedroom with en suite bathroom n Guest bedroom with en suite bathroom n Four further bedrooms n Two family bathrooms n Outside decked area with hot tub n Detached triple garage n Paddock

For full details contact: Knight Frank Tunbridge Wells • 01892 882 788 • www.knightfrank.co.uk

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McAufey

Mi{fer Estate Agents

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BEAUTIFUL HOMES

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PROPERTY: CAMDEN HOUSE LOCATION: SISSINGHURST ROAD SISSINGHURST GUIDE PRICE: £995,000 BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 2 BEST BITS: Southerly-facing reception rooms feature attractive period fireplaces

VILLA VIEWS An elegant attached period villa in Sissinghurst CAMDEN HOUSE IS a stylish, unlisted 19th century property, built circa 1840

by Lady Louisa de Spaen. This charming home retains a wealth of features typical of the period and well-proportioned rooms arranged over two floors, together with a cellar which can be accessed externally. The ground floor boasts spacious rooms, including a drawing room with access to a covered verandah, the kitchen/breakfast room fitted with a comprehensive range of painted cupboards and the versatile family room. There are four first floor bedrooms including the master bedroom which benefits from a walk-in wardrobe and an en suite shower room.

The other bedrooms are served by a family bathroom. This property also has ample outside space, with stunning gardens, an attractive woodland area, verandah, courtyard, summerhouse and garaging.

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Entrance vestibule Reception hall Drawing room Dining room Family room Kitchen/breakfast room Utility room Pantry Cloakroom Three room cellar Master bedroom suite Three further bedrooms Family bathroom Gardens and outbuildings Double garage In Cranbrook School catchment 2016

For full details contact: Savills Cranbrook • 01580 720161 • www.savills.co.uk

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PROPERTY: Rosewood House LOCATION: Clenches Farm Lane, Sevenoaks GUIDE PRICE: £3,350,000 BEDROOMS: 6 BATHROOMS: 5 BEST BITS: The superb and comprehensively fitted Hacker kitchen, Quartz worktops, integrated appliances and a porcelain tiled floor.

GEORGIAN GRANDEUR Elegant and imposing new Georgian style house in Sevenoaks ROSEWOOD HOUSE IS a substantial and spacious Georgian style house of 6,394 sq ft plus a large detached garage, positioned to the rear of the grounds of Hollym in the unique and highly desirable private road of Clenches Farm Lane off Kippington Road. The accommodation is spacious and versatile but could clearly be adapted to suit the needs of the individual buyer. The vendors have built the property to a very high specification. Internally, set over three floors are six bedrooms (four en suite), a kitchen/breakfast room, games room, drawing room, dining room, entrance hall with impressive oak staircase and plenty of living space, while outside, the remarkable landscaped gardens extend to 0.46 acres and are bordered by mature trees and hedging.

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Drawing room Dining room Family room Study Kitchen/breakfast room Utility room Substantial landing Master bedroom suite including dressing room Three bedroom suites Two further bedrooms Family bathroom Games/cinema room Large detached garage Landscaped gardens

For fullcontact: details contact: Knight Frank • 01732 477 • www.knightfrank.co.uk For full details Wood & Pilcher • 01892 511 211744 • www.woodandpilcher.co.uk

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• • • • • • • •

Kitchens Bathrooms Extensions Loft Conversions Plumbing Electrical Brickwork Re-pointing

• • • • • • • •

Driveways Decking Fencing Roofing Painting Decorating Rendering Plastering

Building, Property Refurbishments & Landscaping

We will give you FREE ADVICE on what you can achieve whatever your budget

T: 01892 544988 M: 07808 505 040

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www.mulberrybuilding.com

25/01/2016 09:55

co~ HELEN BREEZE

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THE LETTINGS & MANAGEMENT SPECIALISTS

25/01/2016 16:08

BEAUTIFUL HOMES

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SO

PROPERTY: Sullivan Road LOCATION: 24 Sullivan Road, Tonbridge GUIDE PRICE: £530,000

BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 2 BEST BITS: The luxury fitted kitchen/dining

MODERN FAMILY

room with integrated appliances and a

Detached family home in Tonbridge with recent refurbishment

n Entrance hall

RECENTLY EXTENDED AND fully refurbished, this property offers super family accommodation within close proximity of Woodlands Primary School and easy walk of local shops and amenities. Neutrally decorated with stylish oak flooring to most of the ground floor, you are welcomed into a good size entrance hall and then on into the spacious, extended sitting room with feature fireplace and wood burning stove. The hub of the home will surely be the luxury fitted kitchen/dining room which is comprehensively fitted with contemporary gloss units, worktops and integrated appliances.

Upstairs there are four bedrooms including the master bedroom with luxury en suite shower room, and you’ll also find a contemporary family bathroom.

Outside there is a rear garden which is fully enclosed with paved area and lawn, and the property also benefits from a large driveway and a garage.

breakfast area.

n Sitting room n Kitchen/dining room n Conservatory n Cloakroom n Utility room n Master bedroom with en suite bathroom n Three further bedrooms n Garden n Garage

For full details contact: Barnes Kingsnorth • 01732 771 616 • www.bkestateagents.com

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Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk llU: St.l~

lUIES

THE .....TIM ES

Tunbridge Wells ÂŁ1,295,000

A spacious S bedroom detached family house built to an exacting standard with very well presented versatile accommodation arranged over four floors situated in a highly regarded location on the southern edge of the town.

EPC:F

TunbridgeWells ÂŁ935,000

A very well presented spacious detached 4 bedroom family house superbly situated for access into the town and to the grammar schools, backing onto and with use of a beautiful private woodland park.

EPC:D

Tunbridge Wells Office

Sales. 01892 597607 I tunbridgewells@hamptons-int.com

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SALE AGREED

Penshurst £895,000 A superb spacious 3 bedroom second floor apartment situated within this beautiful Grade II Listed building extending to over 2,400 sq ft and enjoying sensational southerly views. EPC: C

Tunbridge Wells £800,000 On the market for the first time in over 50 years and now in need of some modernisation, a 4/5 bedroom detached house with a fabulous south facing 100ft garden and superb views. EPC: E

Wadhurst £785,000 An individual 3 bedroom detached country house with wonderful rural views set in gardens and grounds of about 2.5 acres, situated on village edge near the station. EPC:C

Langton Green £799,950 Spacious 6 bedroom detached family house situated in a small cul de sac in this popular village with a superb kitchen/dining room and separate office bulding. EPC:D

We are making the most ofour extensive network of 33 London branches by offering to take your property right to the doorsteps of active buyers and tenants in the Capital as part of The Roadshow on Saturday 12th March.

To ensure your property is showcased at this exclusive event, contact us today. The deadline for inclusion is the 7thMarch 2016.

~ Ill U

H

DC Untitled-2 3

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SUPERB GRADE II* LISTED MANOR HOUSE TENTERDEN,KENT Tenterden 1 mile; Cranbrook 10 miles; Ashford International Station 13.5 miles + outstanding attached family home + 5 reception rooms + 7 principal bedrooms + 5 secondary bedrooms + kitchen/ breakfast room + formal landscaped gardens + tennis court+ garaging + about 2.75 acres+ 788 sq m (8,485 sq ft)

Savills Cranbrook Patrick Baily pbaily@savills.com

01 580 720161

Guide ÂŁ1 .695 million Freehold

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E

/andrewsonline

[=I

@andrewsonline

andrewsonline.co.uk

I I

J Nursery Road, TN4

£1,150 pcm

Upper Grosvenor Road, TN1

£1,200 pcm

The property offers a living room and kitchen/dining room on the ground floor. To the 1st floor is the master bedroom, study area and bathroom. There is a further two bedrooms on the 2nd floor.. To the outside is a courtyard garden and side access. Additional benefits include gas fired central heating and replacement double glazing. Available from the 9th January 2016, call now to view to avoid disappointment.

This 1st and 2nd floor conversion is located in a town centre position, 200 yards from the Royal Victoria Place Shopping Centre .. The main line central station is some two thirds of a mile from the property. The accommodation offers a degree of versatility with 1, 2 or 3 reception rooms and 2, 3 or 4 bedrooms. Split level hallway with the bathroom offering twin hand basins, bath with shower over and a separate shower cubicle. With an allocated off road parking space.

Energy Efficiency Rating : E

Energy Efficiency Rating: E

Brentor Court, TN2

£89Spcm

This two double bedroom, first floor purpose built flat is situated within a one mile walk of the mainline station in High Brooms and offers access to the A21 and the North Farm Industrial Estate. The property comprises two double bedrooms, one with builtin wardrobes, modern bathroom with electric shower over the bath, kitchen with some appliances and lounge/dining room. The property also benefits from off-road parking for two cars, double glazing throughout and green views to the rear.

Broadwater Down, TN2

£625 pcm

A one bedroom flat in a period property in a pleasant location on the south west side of Tunbridge Wells. The top floor accommodation comprises open-plan, dual aspect living room and kitchen with electric cooker and fridge, bathroom with electric shower over the bath and a double bedroom plus off road parking, communal gardens and a separate, communal laundry room . Available for single occupancy only.

Energy Efficiency Rating: E

Energy Efficiency Rating: D

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25/01/2016 09:56

ANDREWS

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Reynolds Lane, TN4

£699,995

Hendal Hill, TN3

£580,000

A beautiful detached former farmhouse with a 105' x 62' rear garden with stunning views over the countryside and in a location great for a number of Primary and Secondary schools. With 4 double bedrooms, 3 receptions rooms, modern kitchen, upstairs bathroom, 25'9 x 16'3 (at widest point) conservatory, detached double garage Et parking.

Individual detached bungalow with planning to extend into a house with the option of a detached triple garage with 2 bed annexe, set in private road on village outskirts. Currently 3 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, bathroom, living room with inglenook Et log burner.

Energy Efficiency Rating : E

Energy Efficiency Rating : E

Yew Tree Road, TN4

£500,000

Detached 3 double bedroom family home set back on a plot that has parking for a number of vehicles and a 54'0 x 29'4 rear garden . The mainline station is 0.6 mile and St. John's Primary school is 0.5 mile from the home. Notable features include fireplace, AGA, exposed wood floors, Et lovely views!

Energy Efficiency Rating : D

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Speldhurst Road, TN4

£550,000-£575,000

This imposing Victorian home has impressive double aspect rooms and corner plot gardens, within 0.2 mile of Southborough High Street. Accommodation comprises : bright entrance hall, 4 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, bathroom with shower, cloakroom and storage areas. The garden extends on two sides of the property.

Energy Efficiency Rating : D

25/01/2016 09:56

Camden Park, Tunbridge Wells A fine Victorian property situated in a highly coveted private park Reception hall , sitting room , kitchen, utility room, WC. Master bedroom with en suite shower room, 2 further bedrooms, family bathroom. Private patio. Communal garden. Offstreet parking. Garage. EPC rating D.

A recently completed family house on the edge of a village Entrance hall, cloakroom, utility room, kitchen I breakfast room , garden room, drawing room, sitting room, dining room. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, guest bedroom with en suite bathroom, 4 further bedrooms, 2 family bathrooms. Detached triple garage. Terrace.

Gardens and grounds. Paddock. EPC rating C. In all about 1.31 acres.

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22/01/2016 11:23

An attractive detached period oast house with impressive leisure complex Cloakroom, study, kitchen I breakfast room, utility, sitting room, family room. Master bedroom with en suite, 3 further bedrooms, family bathroom. Leisure complex including gym, swimming pool, 1 bed annexe and 1 further bedroom. Gardens and grounds. Barn I workshop. Quadruple open-bay garage. EPC ratings E & C. In all about 15.23 acres.

路,

Forest Road, Tunbridge Wells A stylish brand new detached family home, ideally situated for the town centre and mainline station Reception hall, study, cloakroom, kitchen I breakfast room , utility room, drawing room , dining room. Master bedroom with en suite bath I shower room, 2 further bedrooms with en suite shower rooms, 2 further bedrooms, family bath I shower room. Level rear garden laid to lawn.

Detached double garage. Gated entrance. EPC rating B.

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22/01/2016 11:23

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to get a tenant into my property and then make sure it was properly managed . What bamboozled me even more was the array of fees I had to pay;

approach to this by running the business out of one central location. Tradesmen are found in the local area. checked out and credentials are

finder's fee for a tenant. lease fees. management fees. gas safety certificate fees. the list just went on and on. What starts out as an estimate

confirmed to ensure the work is done right.

The tenant reports a fault either on the central fault line or via Rentlocally's unique

for a couple of hundred pounds ends up being considerably more. What you are not told is that the high management fees advertised will often

online system. It's actioned and repair men are dispatched. Fast and efficient. Saving time and money. Both the tenant and the

be reduced but only after hard negotiation.

landlord are kept fully informed at all times simply by logging into their online account.

I felt conned into paying more money than I hadtoasalandlord. When Itriedtofindacompany that was transparent about their fees and stuck to a fixed fee. I simply couldn't find one' So I decided to do it myself and I set

Simple, straightforward and transparent.

For

more

information

on

Rentlocally

please contact me on 01892 841040 or email

at

bruce.jenner@rentlocally.co.uk

BRUCE JENNER

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT US VISIT OUR WEBSITE: www.rentlocally.co.uk

SPEAK TO US DIRECT

BY PHONE OR EMAIL: ka nds@rentloca I ly.co.u k

01892 841040

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The Better Letting People

25/01/2016 09:57

GARDENS

SO

Glorious Gardens This month Emma Davies who runs the Walled Nursery in Hawkhurst with her husband Monty is encouraging us all to go green…

R

ain, rain and more rain…our winters are changing from cold

spaces by 2017.

Kent was named the ‘Garden of England’

your kitchen and get fresh herbs for your dinner as well as doing your bit for the

by Henry VIII; we should all be leading by

environment. Generally, if you have the

worry. 2016 has seen us with daffodils

example and on the whole, I believe that on

space, then use it; plant it up with as

coming into bloom in January and plants

the green front, we do very well indeed. In

many different plants as you can, give our

in general behaving as if spring has

Tunbridge Wells we have our beautiful parks

wildlife plenty to keep them going. You

already arrived. As I’m writing this article

and gardens but as the town becomes more

can plant a Blueberry bush in a container,

early in the New Year, I wonder what

of a success, more residents will arrive all

the bees adore the flowers and you get

weather we’ll be having by the time this

needing cars. A ‘grey’ problem in our area is

fruit too, a win, win for everyone.

magazine arrives in your home in

the removal of front gardens to make way

February? For us gardeners, it’s all scary

for parking spaces.

to mild and wet and it’s a big

One of the best things you can do to green up is to plant a tree. One mature

stuff, for those that aren’t so in tune with

Let’s talk about towns in particular –

tree can lift up to 100 gallons of water

nature; I’d like to take the opportunity to

gardens can give us huge benefits, not

out of the ground in one day! George

point out some green fingered tips to

only giving us lots of beauty to admire but

Monbiot of the Guardian newspaper has

help our environment with a focus on

supporting wildlife, protecting us from

written a lot about how we should be

preventing flooding.

flooding and extremes of temperature and

tackling floods – he reported that a

giving us a health boost, gardening is very

government consultant when walking

at an alarming rate, even our beautiful

therapeutic. In the centre of town, we may

over fields in a storm noticed that water

Pantiles and High Street found itself

only have a small space but if we all green

flashing off land, suddenly disappeared

under water back in 2015 due to flash

up our small spaces, even if it’s just

when it reached a group of trees. There

flooding. When it rains, it hammers

planting up some containers, in most

was then research carried out which

down, none of this gentle splish

towns these small spaces could add up to

determined that ‘water sinks into the soil

sploshing anymore! So, what can we do

25% of the total towns land.

under trees at 67 times the rate at which

Floods seem to be occurring in the UK

to help?

The RHS has a new initiative, ‘Greening

So, what exactly can you do? Plant some climbers or shrubs; remember if

it sinks into the soil under grass’. Wow! It’s about time we all took responsibility

Grey Britain’, with an aim to transform

you’re short on space, you can always go

for our environment; will you take the

grey areas into living, planted areas that

upwards. There are some fantastic wall

RHS pledge and promise to green up

not only enrich lives but help our

planters now which are really easy to use

grey Britain? I hope so!

environment too. They want us to

and, if you plant in a smart way you could

Happy Gardening,

make a promise to green up 6000 grey

fill it with herbs, hang it on a wall near

Emma

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22/01/2016 16:03

SO

GARDENS

Feed the birds Hannah Stephenson shares some tips on tasty treats to help boost bird numbers

H

ave you noticed that your bird feeders are still full? This may be because the mild winter has

provided plenty of natural food for birds, who may be a bit later than usual in arriving in your garden in search of tasty morsels.

However, there’s no time like the present to tempt in a greater variety of species.

Thousands of children across the UK are also currently taking part in the world’s biggest schools wildlife survey, the RSPB’s

from the three finches; chaffinch,

Big Schools’ Birdwatch, which helps to

goldfinch and greenfinch.

track numbers of birds in school grounds.

The survey runs until February 12.

Last year’s survey revealed a continuing

So, what are we likely to see? Well, that depends on what we put in our feeders and the types of feeders we use.

find somewhere to roost overnight.

During cold weather birds can lose up to 40% of their weight overnight just trying to keep warm.

Food that’s high in energy is vital for birds

Try hanging plastic feeders filled with

in winter – peanuts, fat or suet-based foods,

which have dropped by an alarming 80 and

sunflower hearts to attract finches, tits,

seed mixes that contain sunflower seeds or

79% respectively since the Birdwatch began

sparrows, starlings, song thrush and

hearts, mealworms and fruit will all go

in 1979. Both species are on the UK ‘red

robins, mesh feeders with peanuts for tits

down well. You can also make your own fat

list’, as is the house sparrow, meaning they

and hanging mesh feeders containing fat

balls and cake mix using lard and suet.

are of the highest conservation concern.

balls for tits and sparrows.

decline in starlings and song thrushes,

But refreshingly, sightings of every bird

Niger seeds are a magnet for goldfinch

Place lard and suet at room temperature in a mixing bowl, add uncooked porridge oats,

that featured in 2015’s top 20 increased on

and siskin, while fat balls are enjoyed by

mild grated cheese, peanuts, sultanas,

the numbers recorded in 2014, apart

blackbirds, tits, collared dove, house

raisins and bird seed. Mix it all together and

sparrows and song thrushes. Ground

roll into balls or use shallow dishes to create

feeders or bird tables with an oat/fruit/fatty

bird cake. Put them in the fridge to set, and

nibbles mix are ideal for robins and

when they are solid place them outside.

blackbirds. If you don’t have a suitable

the amount you put out. In summer, when

chopping board, the RSPB suggests.

many birds leave to breed in the

Never put out any food in nylon mesh

countryside, they’ll need less food. And

bags, which may trap birds’ feet. Birds with

there’s a lot more food available naturally in

a barbed tongue, such as woodpeckers, can

autumn and even early winter, as flowers

become trapped by their beaks.

set seed and berries ripen. Fatty foods can

A bird’s body clock works on daylight hours, so in the winter months you may see a feeding frenzy at first light. If you

202

It is fine to feed all year-round - just adjust

feeder, just put food out on an old wooden

go off in summer, so remove any which are past their best.

Water is just as important for the birds, so

watch your garden birds regularly you’ll

make sure you keep a birdbath or two

notice that they’ll come down to feed again

topped up to encourage them further.

in the late afternoon, before they go and

www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch

F E B R UA RY 2 0 1 6

SO TW_FEB16_Garden_Products.indd 2

25/01/2016 15:49

Wealden Country Landcraft For all your design, construction and maintenance requirements, contact:

Adam Sutton BSc (Hons) Environmental Science Tim Playfoot BA (Hons) Garden Design Tel:01892 722699 Adam:07979 362241 Tim:07990 751353 www.playfootgardendesign.co.uk

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22/01/2016 11:41

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